WHO WILL WIN THE WORLD CUP?

Quote Originally Posted by TorontoJoey:

Italia 

Quote Originally Posted by tdotbenfiquista:

Not sure who will win, but, Portugal in my mind will go far..

The national team will be playing with a heavy heart, due to the loss of Eusebio, majority of this team will have experienced having the Black Panther at past tournaments, thus coming to the realization that he is no longer with us.. his presence in the locker room, in the stands cheering his country on, it will be missed from the players, and most noteably Cristiano Ronaldo, who built a very strong relationship with him.

The Defence is second to none, and have been together for a few years, the chemistry is top notch, all 4 (pereira, pepe, alves, coentrao) are all still active, and have had success together as a unit.

The midfield is one of the most hard working units in national futebol, and unfortunately, meireles is getting up there in age.. he is likely to be one of the first subs on a game to game basis.. on the bright side, this crop of players is the deepest Portugal has been blessed with for some time.

The biggest question marks for this team.. Nani? can he regain form prior to the tournament?

If not, does the resurrgence of Quaresma qualify him as a replacement to Nani?

I personally believe so.. It would appear Quaresma has finally.. FINALLY.. realized he is no longer a 'superstar' and he must take a backseat to Cristiano, his work rate with Porto since the transfer is second to none and still posseses one of the more deadly crosses/shots in the game.

The fact many do not expect much from Portugal this time around will only benefit them.

Probably formation:

-------------------------------Patricio--------------------------------------
-Pereira--------Alves----------------------Pepe---------------Coentrao-

----------Meireles-----------Moutinho-------------Veloso----------------

--Nani------------------------Postiga---------------------------Ronaldo---

Key Subs:

William Carvalho
Varela
Ricardo Quaresma
Almeida
Custodio

Quote Originally Posted by mac39bps:

Argentina or bust

Quote Originally Posted by sharpstick:

Maybe I'm square, but Brazil 7/2 looks tempting.  Hopefully I can wait and get 4/1.