1st : France – 9 points
World Ranking: 16
Key Players: Kareem Benzema, Oliver Giroud, Franck Ribery, Blaise Matuidi
After what can only be described as a disastrous turn of events for the French at the 2010 World Cup, the players are determined to redeem their country’s name in world competition. Just about every name on the roster has world class competition under their belt and play for top clubs around the world such as PSG, Real Madrid, Manchester United, and Arsenal. A deadly duo up top in Benzema and Giroud, also Matuidi, Cabaye, and Balon d’Or 2014 nominee Ribery in the midfield, as well as Varane, Evra, and Sagna on the defense. There isn’t much else to say other than that this restructured French team is a force to be reckoned with.
2nd: Switzerland – 6 points
World Ranking: 8
Key Players: Stephan Lichtsteiner, Xherdan Shaqiri, Josep Drmic
The Swiss may not look like a very good team at first glance but their strength comes from a strong defensive line, tactical play style, a quick counter attack, and the numerous players who can take shots from a long distance. Switzerland conceded only 6 goals in 10 games in the qualifying rounds, four of which came in one match versus Iceland. The Swiss present of the best defenses in Europe and with their dominant play style, it will be difficult for anybody in the group to over take them
3rd: Ecuador – 1 point
World Ranking: 28
Key Players: Antonio Valencia, Fidel Martinez, Walter Ayovi
Ecuador may only be ranked 28 in the world, but don’t underestimate their play style, or any of their players for that matter. There are few teams in the world that can play the counter attack game well and, make no mistake, Ecuador is certainly one of them. With wingers as deadly as Valencia and Martinez any long through ball could be a potential chance on goal. The holding ability of the midfielders is solid but the biggest concern for the Ecuadorian side is the lack of overall talent on the defensive line.
4th: Honduras – 1 point
World Ranking: 30
Key Players: Carlo Costly
Honduras is the least likely to make it out of the group stage. However, this doesn’t mean that they should be underestimated in any way. Ecuador may be good at playing the counterattack game, but Honduras has mastered it. With less world class performers than any of the other teams, Honduras will rely on heavily defensive “park the bus” tactics and will look to do damage by long through balls to the only attacking man up top.
Photo Credit: AP
