Road to Rio
Germany
From young and imaginative in 2010 to being experienced contenders in Brazil 2014, Die Mannschaft is ready to mount a serious challenge for the World Cup trophy. But first, a group of death awaits.
Appearances: 18 (First in 1934)
Wins: Three (1954, 1974, 1990)
Road to Rio: Finished top of UEFA Group C
Key Players: Mesut Ozil (Arsenal FC), Bastian Schweinsteiger (Bayern Munich), Phillip Lahm (Bayern Munich)
Coach: Joachim Leow
Strengths: Germany has arguably the most rounded midfield in the tournament with players able to provide attacking creativity and speed down the flanks.
Weaknesses: Germany’s defence has not been tested much and can find it difficult to keep a lid on goals in this group.
Expected finish: Another semi-final finish looks in order
Portugal
Entering the World Cup in Brazil as underdogs, the other teams will be wary of Portugal’s improved record in international tournaments. With that said, the team looks strong enough to rival the best in the world.
Appearances: 6
Wins: None
Road to Rio: Second in UEFA Group F, defeated Sweden in playoff
Key Players: Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid), Joao Moutinho (AS Monaco), Pepe (Real Madrid)
Coach: Paulo Bento
Strengths: Pace in attack with height and power from set pieces seems to be the clear advantages for the Portugese.
Weaknesses: Portugal lacks match-winners outside of Ballon D’Or winner Ronaldo.
Expected finish: Quarter/semi-finals
Ghana
Africa’s best team four years ago on their home continent, Ghana will find themselves in one of the most difficult groups they could possibly imagine. Consider it a tall order to repeat their World Cup exploits.
Appearances: 3 (First in 2006)
Wins: None
Road to Rio: Routed Egypt in CAF playoff
Key Players: Asamoah Gyan (Al Ain), Andre Ayew (Marseille), Kevin-Prince Boateng (Schalke 04)
Coach: Kwesi Appiah
Strengths: The Black Stars possess pace and strength in attack from their wingers and forwards but will require them to be at their best.
Weaknesses: Loss of rock solid stability and experience from Isaac Vorsah and John Mensah easily make Ghana vulnerable at the back.
Expected finish: Group stage exit
United States of America
The stars and stripes of America will feel disappointed with their group draw but nonetheless feel undaunted by the task ahead of them. Finishing in the top two of this group will send a strong message to their opponents.
Appearances: 10 (First in 1990)
Wins: None
Road to Rio: Won CONCACAF qualification
Key Players: Clint Dempsey (Seattle Sounders), Jozy Altidore (Sunderland), Michael Bradley (Toronto FC)
Coach: Jurgen Klinnsman
Strengths: Effective height and power in attack from Dempsey and Altidore will be the Americans’ clearest advantage.
Weaknesses: The exclusion of Landon Donovan from the United States’ squad will deny them much needed experience and creativity.
Expected finish: Group stage exit
