Group A

France

Denmark

Uruguay

Senegal

Reigning champions France should pull through comfortably. Senegal are a rising African soccer power. Denmark look formidable. Uruguay are brimming with talent.

Group B

Spain

Paraguay

Slovenia

South Africa

Spain are the undisputed leaders of the pack. Slovenia are capable of making the next round. Paraguay shows flashes of genius. South Africa are the minnows of this group.

Group C

Brazil

Turkey

Costa Rica

China

Brazil can breathe easy before the big games begin. Turkey are emerging as a soccer power. Costa Rica holds promise while China will have a baptism by fire.

Group D

Portugal

Poland

South Korea

USA

Portugal are the darkhorses of the tournament. Cohesion is Poland's strong point. South Korea are known for their never-say-die spirit. Which means the going will be tough for the United States.

Group E

Germany

Cameroon

Ireland

Saudi Arabia

Germany are not in the same class of their teams of yore. Cameroon are the great African hope. Ireland are known for their pluck. Saudi Arabia should offer token opposition.

Group F

Argentina

England

Sweden

Nigeria

Argentina are loaded with talent. England are struggling with injuries. Nigeria could be dangerous customers. Sweden won't be pushovers. Expect fireworks!

Group G

Italy

Croatia

Ecuador

Mexico

Italy holds sway in this group. Croatia offers formidable opposition. Mexico are competent and could surprise. Ecuador could be cannon fodder for the other three.

Group H

Japan

Russia

Belgium

Tunisia