BRAZIL 2014: WORLD CUP PREVIEW

With the World Cup only 4 weeks away I just had to put my thoughts down on paper. Enjoy the read! For the record, my prediction is a Germany v Argentina final.

Group A

Brazil
JCesar
DAlves TSilva DLuis Marcelo
Paulinho Oscar Gustavo
Hulk Fred Neymar

The host nation is the favourite and the team to beat. Their Confederations Cup final win last year over Spain proved that on home soil they can not only beat the best, but that their fans act as an irreplaceable 12^th man. A team with world class talent in all positions, they have the perfect balance over defence and attack. Definite semi-finalists, but will the immense pressure and what could be a tough draw see them run out of steam prior to the final?

Watch out for: Neymar

Lightning quick, ultra tricky, two footed, a creator and scorer of chances and proved in the Confederations Cup he can inspire team to glory from the left wing position. It will be interesting to see if a tough first season at Barcelona however has taken some energy away from his dynamic displays. 

 

CROATIA

Pletikosa
Srna Lovren Corluka Pranjic
Rakitic Modric Kovacic
Perisic Mandzukic Olic

Not as convincing as usual in the qualifiers, however their quality, particularly in the attacking third, makes them very dangerous opponent. Mandzukic, Perisic, Rakitic and the playmaker Modric will cause problems for any defence. Should their own defence remain firm they are sure to make out of the group. 
 

Watch out for: Luka Modric

A deep lying playmaker in the Andrea Pirlo mould, he dictates the tempo and the forward plays of the team. He has had a stellar season for Real Madrid and is sure to be the key man for Croatia.  

MEXICO

Munoz
Valenzuela Marquez Rodriguez
Aguilar Pena Medina Guadrado
Hernandez Montes DSantos

It was a surprise to see them struggle in the qualifiers and not claim their usual automatic qualifying spot. With the likes of Dos Santos, Hernandez and Guardado to be added to the home based squad that got them through play offs they will no doubt be strong but Brazil and Croatia may be a bit too good for them.

Watch out for: Giovanii Dos Santos
Mexico’s version of Ronaldinho, tricky and skilful and playing at a high level in La Liga. When he first burst on the scene he was destined for great things, however after his release from Barcelona his career never really reached the heights his talent deserves. Showed his worth in the last WC however.

 

CAMEROON

Itandje
Chendjou Matip Nkoulou Ekotto
Enoh Song Makoun
Moting Eto’o Webo

A team with some fine individuals in all areas, it will be interesting to see how they combine on the world stage. They have failed to deliver in recent tournaments and that was with Eto’o at the peak of his powers. This time around however they could pull off a surprise if underestimated.

Watch out for: Samuel Etoo

Older and not the dynamic striker he used to be, but the lure of one last World Cup might bring out his best in him one last time.
He now lacks the pace and sharpness he used to have but his shooting and inspirational skills as the captain of the team are still very impressive.

Group B

SPAIN
Casillas
Azpilicueta Ramos Pique Alba
Xavi Busquets Fabregas
Silva DCosta Iniesta

The most dominant international team of the recent era, they still have the incredible quality and depth in their squad to beat anyone. Whether they still have the right team dynamics and hunger to do so remains to be seen. No matter what happens, their tiki-taka football is always a pleasure to watch, and when in top form no one can stop it.

Watch out for: Anders Iniesta

The little magician in the Spain midfield or wing, he provides the decisive cutting edge to Spain’s play and immaculate service to the forwards. He is almost impossible to mark due to his mobility and incredible ability to turn out of trouble. His penetrating passing is also something to behold.

HOLLAND

Vorm
Janmaat Vlaar IMartins Blind
Snejder DJong VDVaart
Robben VPersie Lens

 A coach that demands nothing but successful attacking football, world class players mixed with emerging talents, there is no reason not to feel confident as a Dutch supporter. The drawback is the Group of Death, Chile and Spain will push them to their limits early in the tournament, should they finish second Brazil will be waiting.

 Watch out for: Arjen Robben

Explosive winger that loves to cut in from the right wing with his left foot to score, he is one of the world’s most dangerous forwards and he has performed very well in every international tournament he has played in. It usually takes two defenders to stop him and has one of the most impressive CV's in world football.

CHILE

Bravo
Isla Medel Gonzalez Mena
Vidal Diaz Fernandez
Sanchez Vargas Valdivia   

Backed by many as the most dangerous outsider along with Belgium, they are fine attacking team with extreme hunger, attacking technical play and mobility. Whether they have the individual quality however to knock off the Dutch or Spanish will be one of the most fascinating things to watch in this tournament. Expect fireworks in their matches.

Watch out for: Alexis Sanchez

A dangerous forward that always gives 100%, he’s always a handful for defenders with his speed and trickery. A real individualist, given space he can get behind any defence. Definitely Chile's main man, if they are to progress he needs to make things happen for them in attack. 



 

AUSTRALIA

Ryan
Franjic Spiranovic Good Davidson
Milligan Jedinak Bresciano
Leckie Cahill Oar

The Aussie Socceroos are where they love to be – underdogs! No one gives them a chance against the rest in the group, and on paper this is deserving. But they will not roll over without a fight in any of the games. A young team will be out to impress, but given their rawness and the tough opposition last place is most likely.  

 

Watch out for: Tim Cahill

Someone who does all the simple things extremely well, there can be no doubting his importance to the Socceroos. His threat in the air is a menace and combines well with teammates, whether it's to drop deep to create play, hold the ball up in attack or be at the end of a cross to score.  

Group C

COLOMBIA
Ospina
Zuniga Zapata Yepes Armero
Cuadrado Guarin Aguilar Rodriguez 
Gutierez Martinez

A team that will no doubt impress in their home continent. They have the quality to go far, regardless of whether Falcao recovers from his knee injury. Either Martinez or Bacca of Sevilla have a chance to make a name for themselves, and both are very talented sharp strikers. Experienced defence, skilful midfielders and deadly strikers, Colombia will be a team to avoid for anyone. 

 

Watch out for: Juan Cuadrado

A right winger playing for Fiorentina, he is a little under the radar for most football fans but his skills are phenomenal and he makes everything look easy. He can create from the wing and take on players but can also finish chances off with ease. In Falcao’s absence he will be the key player.  

GREECE

Kapinos
Torosidis Manolas Sokratis Holebas

Maniatis Katsouranis Karagounis

Salpingidis Mitroglou Samaras

The counter attacking specialists, the whole world now knows what to expect from Greece. Could still beat a couple of the teams in the group but their lack of creativity, particularly in midfield, will see this team being outscored. Unless of course they hold onto those clean sheets..

 Watch out for: Giorgios Samaras

Pacy and involved all over the attack, if Greece is to get goals Samaras will no doubt be involved. He has had an influential season with Celtic and will no doubt trouble defenders at the World Cup. Watch out for him in Greece's counter attacks.

IVORY COAST

Copa
Eboue Toure Bamba Boka
Tiote Zokora Toure
Kalou Drogba Gervinho

Wonderful talent in the attacking third all supporting the golden veteran Didier Drogba. Ivory Coast like Cameroon have failed to deliver in recent WC’s but given this group, a win against the Japanese will set them up for a run to the knockouts. First game is key.

Watch out for: Yaya Toure

A midfielder that provides presence, tackling, distribution and a goal scoring threat- the complete player, almost. He has been so important to Manchester City's revival and its his final chance to impress on the world stage. One of the form players in the world right now.

JAPAN

Kawashima
Uchida Yoshida Konno Nagatomo
Honda Endo Hasebe
Maeda Okazaki Kagawa 

No doubting the mobility and technique of the Japanese. This is a team that is primed to show the world how far Japanese football has come, but may suffer against the physicality of the Ivorians. Honda’s and Kagawa’s poor seasons in Europe might mean they find the going tough against top class opposition.

Watch out for: Keisuke Honda

A player with a deft touch and flair to boot, look out for his dipping free kicks and inventiveness. Combines extremely well with the teams other danger man : Kagawa. Hasn't had the best of seasons at AC Milan however the WC might give the chance to redeem his status as one of the world's most creative players.




Group D
Uruguay
Muslera
Caceres Lugano Godin Pereira
Rios Gargano Rodriguez
Suarez Forlan Cavani

Will probably be the toughest team to beat in the tournament due to their experience and nature of their players. Not necessarily the best team but certainly one of the best organised with weapons in attack and a tough uncompromising defence. Their last game with Italy will go down to the wire to determine who advances. The winner will go far.

Watch out for: Luis Suarez

Needs no introduction to Premier League fans, he can score out of nothing and has the determination of a bull. Italian and English defences will need to be on their toes constantly. He can dribble, he can shoot, he can find space for teammates and also combines well with Forlan and Cavani. In a word-dangerous!



Costa Rica
Navas
Gamboa Acosta Umana Oviedo
Borges Gonzalez Tejeda
Bolanos Hernandez Campbell

Not much to write about a team that struggled even against the Socceroos. Not to be underestimated however due to players like Joel Campbell who can show their worth at top level

Watch out for: Joel Campbell

Burst on the scene in the U20 WC a few years ago, he is definitely Costa Rica's danger man despite his young age. His dangerous left foot and dribbling ability make him a threat from anywhere in attack.

England

Hart
Johnson Cahill Jagielka Baines
Lampard Gerrard Wilshere
Sterling Sturridge Rooney

A new type of player is emerging in England of the likes they have not had in the past. Youngsters like Sterling, Barkley, Sturridge, Wilshere and Lallana give England a skilful dimension that along with their usual organisation and directness might prove to be a lethal mix.With less pressure on them this time, they could surprise and go far.

 

Watch out for: Wayne Rooney
Could have chosen a younger player but this could be Rooney’s last chance at glory. Expecting his shooting and visionary talents to come to the fore. He is one of those rare players that can score and create out of nothing and at equal measure.

Italy

Buffon
Maggio Bonucci Chiellini DeSciglio
DeRossi Pirlo Montolivo
Candreva Balotelli Giaccherini

A not so successful season for Italian clubs in Europe , the loss of form to key players and injuries to key strikers, all point to a negative World Cup. They remain however Italy, a finely organised and tactically mature team. Should the key players discover their form in the tournament,  a quarter final is not out of their reach.  

Watch out for: Mario Balotelli

Strong, skilful, great finishing and can bring others into the attack. Has everything but also a huge temperament problem. Expect fireworks either way. A poor season with Milan, he needs a good showing at this tournament to redeem his status as one of the most talented strikers in world football.  

Group E

Argentina
Romero
Zabaleta Garay Fernandez Rojo
Gago Mascherano DiMaria
Higuain Messi Aguero

A country with the finest player on the planet and with a plethora of stars in the attacking third, this team on paper can match it with anyone. They proved in the qualifiers that they also click as a team, with the defence and midfield holding firm for the attacking 4 players to wreak havoc. Potential winners.

 

Watch out for: Lionel Messi

His date with destiny has arrived. Success will see him crowned as one of, if not the best of all time. Incisive passing, dribbling, free-kicks, goals, there is nothing he can’t do. Much of Argentina's attacks will go through him, and even though the opposition know this there is not much they can do to stop him. He will need to improve on his current Barcelona form however. Has he simply been saving his best for this WC??


Bosnia
Begovic
Vrsajevic Bicakcic Spahic Salihovic
Pjanic Medunjann Misimovic Lulic
Dzeko Ibisevic

A team new on the World Cup platform, however their players play on the biggest stages in Europe. Should they be well organised with good morale in the tournament, they have the weapons to hurt and surprise.

Watch out for: Miraslev Pjanic
A skilful playmaker with an eye for a decisive pass and goal, key to Bosnia’s attacks and major supplier to Dzeko for goals. He's had a stellar season with Roma and even Barcelona are interested in his services apparently. A real entertainer.

 

Nigeria

Enyema
Omeruo Ambrose Yobo Echielje
Mba Mikel Onazi
Moses Emenike Odemwigie   

A team that most love to watch, their matches are never boring due to their suspect defence and their potent attackers. They have enough experience and quality to progress, all should come down to their game with Bosnia.  

 

Watch out for: John Obi Mikel

A key man in the middle who not only protects the back four but joins in the attack too. Known for his defensive displays at Chelsea he is given more freedom with Nigeria to join the attack. Their best talent by reputation, now is his chance to prove it.

 

Iran

Difficult to write a lot about Iran other than, judging from previous tournaments and their success in qualifying, they will be no pushovers. The quality in the group however will probably see them finish last.

Group F

Switzerland
Benaglio
Lichstein Schaer Bergen Rodriguez 
Shaqiri Inler Behrami Stocker
Xhaka Seferovic

Will most likely repeat their performance at USA 94,  a second round place is not out of their grasp. They have a solid midfield packed with defensive minded players who can hold and control, along with players that can create and spring quick attacks.

 

Watch out for: Shaqiri

Left footed dynamo who can dribble and supply the forwards. Can play anywhere across the attack and has shown his worth at Bayern Munich no less. If Switzerland is to progress they need him in top form.  

 

France
Lloris
Debuchy Varane Koscielny Evra
Pogba Cabaye Matuidi
Griezmann Benzema Ribery

The manner of their qualifying, overturning a 2-0 first leg deficit to Ukraine, proves that France is still a team to be reckoned with. Talent all over the pitch, with youngsters ready to show their talent like Varane, Pogba, Matuidi and Griezmann, you can expect France to show their class and top the group. Some experienced players round out this team beautifully.

Watch out for: Franck Ribery

Loves to cut in from the left flank, when on fire he can be unstoppable. There is nothing he loves more than to take on defenders and create chances. One of world football's best players, he was unlucky to miss out on the Ballon D'Or last year. Will be keen to atone for last WC's debacle.

 

 

Ecuador
A team without superstars but who have proved their worth in the tough S.American qualifying group. They will prove a tough game for France and Switzerland but they lack the individual quality to progress.

Watch out for: Antonio Valencia
Typical winger suited to the English game where he plays for Manchester United, he covers every blade of grass on the right wing and can deliver dangerous crosses. Ecuador's only world class player, others might impress but he is definitely their best. A great team player.

 

Honduras
Have experience from previous World Cup and did well to qualify automatically ahead of Mexico, like Ecuador they will be tough to beat but simply don’t have enough of a threat to displace the Europeans  

Group G
Germany
Neuer
Lahm Boateng Martesacker Schmelzer
Ozil Schweinsteiger Kroos
Mueller Klose Reus

The team with the most variety in attack, they can score a number of ways. No real weakness other than some minor question marks over their centre back pairing. Germany’s talent in midfield and attack is unmatched and are favourites along with Brazil and Argentina to win. Their lightning quick attacks when in quick transition are devastating.

Watch out for: Thomas Mueller 
Not the most skilful of the Germans, but certainly the most effective. He can score, assist, provides an aerial threat and works tirelessly. Had an amazing first WC in 2010 where he finished as the most impressive in terms of stats. If he repeats it this time around there will be no doubting his class.

 

Portugal
Beto
Pereira Pepe Alves Contreau
Moutinho Veloso Meireles
Nani Postiga Ronaldo

A well organised team that has the added advantage of playing together for years, Portugal has the potential to go far. Given they also have the form player on the planet in the team, they can be confident of advancing into knockout rounds, although expect Ghana and USA to ask serious questions of them. Should they avoid Belgium a potential Ronaldo v Messi showdown looms in the quarters!
 

Watch out for: Cristiano Ronaldo

The most in-form player coming into the World Cup. A scorer, dribbler and occasional provider. Portugal’s reliance on him is immense. Has shown all his talents this season with Real Madrid, however he needs an exceptional showing on the greatest stage to join the top echelon of all time greats.  

 

Ghana

Dauda
Akaminko Mensah Opare Afful
Essien Muntari Asamoah
Prince Gyan Ayew

A team very unlucky not to progress to the semis in the last WC, Ghana have the quality and experience to once more progress. Many of their players play for the biggest clubs in Europe however the defence is suspect. Much of their fortunes depends on their showdown with Portugal. 

 

Watch out for: Kevin Prince Boateng

Similar to Tim Cahill of Australia, his talent is in being able to do everything well. Most effective in a supporting striker role, he can both create and score some wonderfully skilful goals. Was a major surprise him leaving AC Milan this season, they don't seem to be the same since. Major attacking asset for Ghana.

 

USA
Howard
Cameron Gonzalez Belser Beasley
Dempsey Jones Bradley Donovan
Altidore Johansson 

The underdogs of their group however they have proved in the past they can spring a surprise, and American football is stronger than its ever been. Still, it will take a massive surprise for them to get past Portugal, Ghana and Germany.
 
Watch out for: Clint Dempsey
A player that mostly plays on the wing, however look out for his goal scoring threat, Dempsey is a great finisher of chances. Showed his class in the EPL and at a good age in terms of experience and skill to have an impact in this tournament.  

 

Group H
Belgium
Courtouis
Aldeweireld Kompany Vermaelen Vertonghen
Fellaini Witsel Dembele
DeBruyne Lukaku Hazard

Apart from the favourites, no team on paper has as many world class players as Belgium. The coach’s and team’s tournament inexperience however may prove costly. Should they build up momentum though, no team will want to face them in the knockout rounds.

Watch out for: Eden Hazard

Belgium’s version of Ronaldo, he can create something out of nothing. Has had a great season for Chelsea and his wing play with his dribbling and creative play is a constant threat. Belgium's chances of progressing far into the tournament depend on him being in top form.

 

Russia
Akinfeev
Anyukov Berezutsky Ignashevich Kombarov
Samedov Denisov Shirokov Faizulin
Dzagoev Kerzhakov

An experienced coach and an impressive showing at 2012 Euros bode well for the Russians, particularly considering the opponents they have been paired with. Should they avoid a defeat to Korea and Algeria they will probably advance to second round, which should be the end of the road for them.

Watch out for: Dzagoev

Impressed greatly at the Euros where his ability to create and score equally where a great addition to a Russian team lacking flair. Not a guaranteed starter but easily the most talented Russian.

 

Korea
Some nifty individuals and play some neat and quick football, however it would be an upset if they beat Belgium. Their best bet for success is against Russia where Korea’s pace might expose the ageing defenders.  

Watch out for: Son

Korean playing at the highest level in the Bundesliga, if Korea is to upset the big guns they need this imposing striker in top form.

 

Algeria

Mesbah Medjah Boughera Ghoulam
Bentaleb Mostefa Taider
Feghouli Slimani Soudari

Bit of a dark horse, they certainly have some players that can hurt the opposition and who play in top European leagues. This is one team that could surprise all in the group if they are taken lightly, as England found out in the last WC.

Watch out for: Feghouli
A right winger playing for Valencia who will no doubt create and score for Algeria as he does for his club. Small and stature but tricky and skilful, a typical Algerian footballer.

 

THE 2012/13 CHAMPIONS LEAGUE!

This week marks the return of the most important and best club competition in the world: the UEFA Champions League! Day 1 sees a mouthwatering clash between the champions of Spain and the champions of England: Real Madrid vs Manchester City in one of the most difficult groups ever assembled.

This seasons competition promises to be be as exciting as ever. Detailed below are the group pairings and bolded are the teams who I believe will progress from each group. I have previewed and ranked those teams further below. Enjoy the 2012/13 Champions League!

Group A: Paris Saint Germain, Dynamo Kiev, Porto, Dinamo Zagreb 
Group B: Arsenal, Schalke, Montpellier, Olympiacos
Group C: AC Milan, Zenit St Petersburg, Malaga, Anderlecht
Group D: Real Madrid, Borussia Dortmund, Manchester City, Ajax Amsterdam 
Group E: Juventus, Chelsea, Shaktar Donetsk, Nordsjaelland
Group F:  Bayern Munich, Valencia, Lille, BATE Borisov
Group G: Barcelona, Benfica, Celtic, Spartak Moscow
Group H: Manchester United, Galatasaray, Sporting Braga, CFR Cluj 

16. BENFICA Artur-  Pereira, Luisao, Garay, Melgarejo-  Martins, Rodrigo - Aimar, Salvio, Nolito- Cardozo
The Portuguese champions are unlucky to be drawn with Barcelona however they have enough class to get past Celtic and Spartak. A second round showing is the best they can hope for however, particularly after losing their playmaker Axel Witsel. That is of course unless Aimar can roll back the years and assist Salvio and Cardozo with goals. The defensive pairing of Luisao and Garay is solid but their distribution can be found wanting at times.


15. DYNAMO KIEV Shokovskiy-  Danilo, Betao, Mikhalik, Taiwo - Veloso, Vukojevic - Yarmolenko, Kranjcar, Gusev - Brown 

With technically gifted players from Eastern Europe like Kranjcar and Vukojevic mixing with gifted players like Taiwo,Veloso and Brown and local superstar Yarmolenko in the mix, Dynamo can be a very dangerous opponent on their day.


14. GALATASARAY  Muslera - Eboue, Cris, Gokhan, Ceyhun - Melo, Altintop - Bulut, Elmander  Riera - Baros
The one team that everyone in Europe fears playing away, Galatasary will be hoping to progress from a relatively easy group and cause surprises in the second round. Some very experienced footballers like Baros, Eboue and Melo are mixed with Turkish stars like Bulut and Altintop to make them a formidable opponent.


13. SCHALKE Fahrmann - Uchida, Papadopoulos, Howedes, Fuchs - Barnetta, Holtby, Draxler, Afellay - Farfan, Huntelaar

A typically competitive German team, Schalke has done well to add Barnetta and Afellay to their midfield to complement highly rated local talents Holtby and Draxler.  if their forwards Huntelaar and Farfan can continue their impressive form from last season then Schalke will be a hard team to beat.
 

12. ZENIT ST PETERSBURG Malafeev-Anyokov, Alves, Lombaerts, Criscito- Zyryanov, Witsel, Semak, Denisov - Hulk, Kerzhakov
The Russian champions are made up of half of the Russian national team and some serious European talent. Having scored the double scoop of the European transfer market in securing the services of the Belgium playmaker Axel Witsel and Brazilian striker Hulk, they are sure to make an impression on this years Champions League.  Add the wily brains of Italian coach Spaletti and Zenit can cause some surprises.

11. AC MILAN Abbiati - Abate, Bonera, Acerbi, Antonini - Nocerino, DeJong, Boateng, Montolivo -  Pato, Robinho
Much has been said about the loss in quality for the Rossoneri after the transfers of Ibrahimovic and Silva, but perhaps not enough on the potential quality of some of their signings. Montolivo proved at the Euros what a good midfielder he is and De Jong has been added to balance the midfield. Up front they can choose anyone of the following proven strikers-Robinho, Pato, Bojan and Pazzini.  As long as Milan get their defensive pairing right in the centre they should be good enough to progress in top spot from their group. 
 
10. PARIS SAINT GERMAIN Douchez - VanDerWiel, Sakho, Silva, Maxwell - Varatti, Motta, Pastore - Menez, Ibrahimovic, Lavezzi
A team made up with the wealthy contributions of the Arab world, PSG are bound to cause serious concerns for anyone if the team manage to click. Experienced Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti is the right man for the job but come the decisive months of February through to April it will be up to the superstars to deliver. The forward line of Pastore, Lavezzi and Ibrahimovic is one that promises lots of excitement and goals in upcoming matches.  

9. CHELSEA Cech- Ivanovic, Luis, Terry, Cole - Lampard, Mikel - Hazard, Oscar, Mata - Torres 


The defending champions won the Champions League last year with a lot of luck and playing very defensively with athletic players. Their involvement in the transfer market this season has resulted in a squad full of quality and flair, but should their game plan change from last season it will be interesting to see if they can still beat the best in Europe at their own game. Nonetheless Hazard and Oscar will show their worth this season.

8. ARSENAL Sczezny - Sagna, Martesacker, Vermaelen, Gibbs - Arteta, Wilshere, Cazorla - OxladeChamberlain,  Gervinho, Podolski
It seems that no matter who they lose over the summer Arsenal still seems to put together a team capable of competing with the best. Cazorla in the midfield and Podolski up front are fantastic signings and fit the Arsenal mould of playing slick fast football. If Wilshere can return from injury the same player they will be very dangerous once again and continue their fine record of Champions League football. 

7. MANCHESTER UNITED DeGea - Smalling, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra - Valencia, Carrick, Scholes, Kagawa - Rooney, Van Persie
Alex Ferguson's men don't need any introduction, they are always a tough team to beat in Europe and last years shock exit will have them primed for a better showing this time round. Adding Van Persie to the attack next to Rooney could see some  serious fireworks in front of goal. Should new signing Kagawa be given the right role to flourish United should get to the quarters. Their defence however is a problem that will surely be exposed at the pointy end of the competition.

   
6. VALENCIA Alves - Pereira, Ruiz, Rami, Cissokho - Gago, Albelda -Feghouli, Piatti, Guardado - Soldado
A team that can regularly provide a stern test for Barcelona and Real Madrid in Spain has to be respected in the Champions League. Feghouli has started the season well and the addition of tricky Mexican Guardado provides width in attack. The Argentinian Gago is a deep lying playmaker that can give rhythm to a team and can create moves for the likes of Soldado and Piatti to finish off. Their fine style of fast decisive attacking moves with the ball on the ground continues and they will be a match for anyone on their day. Underestimate them at your peril. 

5. BORUSSIA DORTMUND Weidenfeller - Pisczek, Hummels, Subotic, Schmelzer - Bender, Gundogan - Blaszykowski, Reus, Gotze - Lewandowski
The German champions showed their true class and potential when dismantling Bayern Munich in last season's German Cup Final. A surprise loss to Marseille meant that they didn't progress to the stage of the Champions League last season that their talents deserved, however the addition of the hugely talented Reus and the continual rise of Gotze will surely see them as the team most likely to surprise the big 4. The midfield pairing of Gundogan and Bender and the defending of Hummels provides a good base for the attacking talents and Lewandowski has developed into one of the finest centre forwards in European football.  If they can get out of the 'Group of Death' they can go all the way. 

4. JUVENTUS Buffon - Lichsteiner, Bonucci, Barzagli, Chiellini -  Marchisio, Pirlo, Vidal, Asamoah - Vucinic, Giovinco
The Italian champions are back where they belong and they wont be shy with the experience at their disposal. Boasting most of the Italian team that did so well at the Euros, their chances will be finished off by the impressive striker Vucinic. Asamooah and Vidal also add athleticism to Pirlo's maestro like tempo in the midfield, and Lichsteiner is a constant threat on the right flank. Expect them to reach the semis and possibly a final showing should Conte the coach get through his touchline ban.

3. BAYERN MUNICH Neuer - Lahm, Dante, Badstuber, Alaba - Schweinsteiger, Martinez - Robben, Kroos, Ribery - Mandzukic
Bayern have added players where they needed them from last season. The arrival of Mandzukic is also a boost in attack and provides a more all round attacking threat to Gomez, however its new boy Martinez from Spain for a ridiculous amount of money who is expected to make the difference,  a player with enough tactical maturity and distribution to cover the gaps in midfield whilst Schweinsteiger, Robben, Ribery and Kroos create havoc in the opposition half. Kroos in particular is a player that is developing into a fine midfield general. There is enough depth in the squad to see them at least reach the semis if not the final once more.

2. REAL MADRID Casillas - Arbeloa, Ramos, Pepe, Marcelo - Khedira, Alonso - Ozil, Modric, DiMaria - Benzema
Real should have made last seasons final and you can bet that the whole squad will be aiming to make this right, after all everyone from the coach to the goalkeeper believe its their God given right since they play for Real Madrid. Undoubtedly they are a team with the players to win the Champions League, and should Ronaldo and Ozil manage to click with new boy Modric in the attacking third they should be better than any team in the competition, just about..

1. BARCELONA Valdes - Alves, Pique, Puyol, Alba - Xavi, Busquets, Fabregas - Pedro, Messi, Iniesta
The most impressive team in the world over the last few years, their football is leaving a legacy and a blueprint for all teams to follow. The talents of the all conquering Spanish national team that includes  Iniesta, Fabregas, Xavi, Busquets and Pique are nicely topped off by the finest player of the last 30 years: Lionel Messi. Guardiola may have gone but new coach Vilanova has maintained the 4-3-3 system and philosophy that has seen Barcelona become one of the greatest teams of all time. Bet against them if you wish, but come May 2013 another Barcelona triumph at Wembley is the most likely scenario!