8.Russia
They entered the tournament as the lowest ranked team, so why should we change anything the rest of the way? Russia’s path to the final is much easier than it could’ve been, but it doesn’t change the fact they’re the least skilled team remaining in the competition.
7. Sweden
There isn’t an outsider on Sweden’s side of the bracket, but if Janne Andersson’s team reaches the final, it’ll be as shocking as if Russia does it. Recent history suggests defensive-minded national football teams are capable of winning big tournaments (Portugal – Euro 2016, Greece 2004), but that’s more of an exception than a rule.
6. Uruguay
Cavani’s absence kills Uruguay. France is the favorite to progress anyway, but without him, Uruguay’s chances are reduced to ashes. Even if Oscar Tabarez masterminds an upset, it will suck all the energy out of his team. Brazil or Belgium are too talented and will exploit the fatigue factor.
5.Belgium
The game against Japan showed Belgium’s golden generation is not ready to take over the football throne. Roberto Martinez is too conservative to win a World Cup. Defeating Brazil will go a long way towards convincing us otherwise, but even if that happens, France will likely wait in the semi-finals. If Belgium would be on the other side of the draw, based on talent alone, it would be the second favorite to win the title.
4.England
England was on the brink of another heartbreaking World Cup exit. Luckily for all England fans, Jordan Pickford saved Bacca’s penalty kick and they survived a huge scare. The draw has been kind, it is entirely realistic to think Gareth Southgate’s men can reach the final now. It is there, however, where an opponent they can’t match comes knocking on the door.
3. Croatia
Croatia is in front of England in this ranking only because Zlatko Dalic’s men have better chances of getting past Russia than England has at overcoming Sweden. Reaching the final would be a remarkable accomplishment, by far the biggest in the country’s history. There, Croatia’s opponent would be touching their nerves, stripping a piece of hope every step of the way.
2. France
Both France and Brazil are looking for revenge, France for the Euro 2016 final loss, Brazil for the World Cup 2014 semi-final loss. Both were competitions they hosted. Both teams are pacing themselves and leaving the best for last. A final match between the two would’ve been ideal. A semi-final clash is the next best thing. The media will portray a potential meeting as a duel between Golden Ball contenders Neymar and Kylian Mbappe. However, football is a team sport. The better team wins. Until someone takes down Brazil, they remain favorites. The winner of this encounter likely wins the trophy.
1. Brazil
Arguments written above. Nothing else to add.
Brazil has its flaws, but since no World Cup team has separated itself as the best one or the most attractive one, Tite’s men are still seen as the ones to beat. They have a bumpy road ahead. With Neymar leading the charge, the flamboyant Brazilians can slalom their way to the final.
