The 20th edition of the FIFA World Cup is all set to begin with host nation Brazil taking on Croatia in the competition's opening game at the Arena de Sao Paulo in Sao Paulo. As the clock ticks down to the kick off the month-long extravaganza, sport finally seems to be overshadowing the politics that has plagued this edition of the world cup.
As Scolari's Samba Boys take on Croatia, the excitement is sure to reach fever pitch with all eyes on wonderkid Neymar. The 5-time champions are expected to coast through in their opening game with most fans expecting a goal fest.
Neymar has already been touted as the next Pele in this part of the world. The match will showcase Brazil's star-studded line-up featuring Neymar, Hulk, Fred, Dani Alves, Thiago Silva, David Luiz, Oscar and plenty more. On the other hand, ranked 20th, Croatia would be relishing the opportunity of springing a surprise against the tournament favourites.
Niko Kovac's side, however, is missing star striker Mario Mandzukic who is serving a one-match ban after the red card he received against Iceland in the last play-off clash.
The Blazers won both of their last two warm-up matches against Mali at home and Australia in Brazil. Ivan Rakitic could be playing with Neymar for Barcelona next season and Croatia will be hoping he puts in a good display, accompanied by their other midfield sergeant - Luka Modric.
Teams participating in the tournament
This year's edition of the World Cup features 32 nations vying for that elusive crown which will make them better than the rest. The participating teams are from five different confederations from across the globe with 13 from Europe; four from the Asia; four from north America, central America and the Caribbean; six from South America; and five representing the African continent.
The hot favourites
With less than twelve hours to kick-off, the question which still arises in everyone's mind is who are the favourites to lift the trophy. Can 'tiki-taka' inspired Spain dominate other teams like they did in 2010 in South Africa? Will they be able to successfully defend their crown in Rio on July 13th. On the other hand, the Germans, who are also seen as favourites, have advanced from the Group Stage in all but one of their prior World Cup appearances. Two years ago in Poland and the Ukraine, Germany were playing some irresistible soccer until coming up short against Italy in the semi-finals. Can Joachim Low's men shed the chokers tag this time around?
Being the hosts of the 2014 FIFA World Cup, Brazil is expected to lift their record 6th World Cup in front of the home crowd. Brazil showed a glimpse of their potential when they defeated Spain 3-0 in the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup but can they become the fourth host nation to win the World Cup? On the other hand, Brazil's arch rivals Argentina have been the favourites since the playing days of the great Maradona, but they have not lived up to their reputation since they claimed the World Cup in 1986. So can Lionel Messi, Sergio Aguero, Angel di Maria and Gonzalo Higuain give them taste of their glory in their rivals backyard?
Underdogs
Bullish Belgium arrived in Brazil brimming with confidence and are strong favourites to top Group H after cruising through qualifying unbeaten. The term 'golden generation' is a staple of the media but few Belgians would argue their current squad glistens like no other - even the side that finished a fantastic fourth at the 1986 World Cup. Belgium's youthful squad is packed with talent from the cream of European football and it won't be wrong to say that they have the quality to go all the way this time around as neutrals favourite.
Top players to watch out for at Football World Cup 2014
From Cristiano Ronaldo to Lionel Messi, from Eden Hazard to Neymar, we look at the players who can take this World Cup by storm.
Eden Hazard (Belgium): Belgium are considered a dark horse of the 2014 World Cup. The Belgium winger is coming in the tournament after a sensational season for Chelsea in the EPL and will be one of the key men for his country in Brazil. He is generally deployed in a wide role keeping in mind his pace, trickery and good deliveries for the strikers.
Neymar (Brazil): Brazil's newest hero will be expected to shoulder the expectations of millions this summer. Neymar operates in a free role for Brazil and keeping his pace and dribbling in mind he can be handful for the opposition. He will be seen as a match winner for Brazil.
Lionel Messi (Argentina): It's been a struggle to get Lionel Messi to perform for Argentina despite his dominance at club level but this time around things can change. Playing on the turf of arch rivals Brazil, Argentine fans will be hoping that star attacker can be at his best in a month-long tournament. He will be given a free role as a striker by his national coach and that will allow him to dominate the opposition defenders.
Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal): 2013 Ballon d'Or winner will be hoping to take the World Cup by storm. He has the ability to help his team win matches single-handedly, and keeping in mind his form for Real Madrid, the Portugal captain can give nightmares to the opposition defenders. A rasping long shot, pace, astonishing athletic presence and aerial ability make him a complete player in modern-day game.
Wayne Rooney (England): Rooney led his qualifying group with seven goals and will be the main man for England once again. With England in Group of Death, fans will rely on his all-round ability to help England through. In the past, Rooney has gone into the World Cup with injuries, but this time he has declared himself 100 per cent fit and will be looking to leave his mark on the most elite competition of the beautiful game.
Venues
This year's World Cup will see 12 cities in Brazil hosting 62 games from June 12 to July 13. The 12 venues are Estadio do Maracana, Estadio Nacional, Arena de Sao Paulo, Estadio Castelao, Estadio Mineirao, Estadio Beira-Rio, Arena Fonte Nova, Arena Pernambuco, Arena Pantanal, Arena da Amazônia, Arena das Dunas and Arena da Baixada.
So surely the World Cup is going to be a carnival in Brazil and for football fans all around the world. Let the beautiful game begin.
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