Group H -  Belgium….Algeria…..Russia….Korea Republic

Our last group is Group H. The surprise powerhouse in this group is Belgium. I say surprise because theirs is not a name that rolls off of your tongue when you name the great soccer teams of Europe. Still, they have talent from top to bottom with Belgian players occupying all-star positions in all the great leagues. They have defenders like Kompany from Man City, midfielders like Defour from Porto and strikers such as Mertins from Napoli and a player who is one of the favorites to win the goal scoring trophy, the Golden Boot”, Lukaku, who plays for Everton and will be a household name by the end of the tournament.  They are the class of this group and can go far in the knock out stage as well.

  Russia are my pick to come out second. They are not as strong as in past years, but the style that they play goes over well in this type of event. They play strong defense, they do not beat themselves, and the have absolutely no pressure. In fact as an underdog they have a chance to show people up and this is something that Russians have always enjoyed doing.

  I am going to put South Korea as my number 3 team, although it would not surprise me if they were to come in second. Over the last 20 years, the South Koreans have had players infiltrate all over Europe. They have players in the Serie A in Italy and the Premier League in England. They are known for  a high work rate and a quick passing game that is the hallmark of good midfield players. What they have never excelled in and what will be their downfall once again is the back half of their squad, the defense and the goal keeper position. They do not stand up well to heavy pressure and the physical play that come in the World Cup and so this year I predict they will be watching the second round from the sidelines…or the pool deck…or the beach.

  For most Americans, the highlight of last World Cup and one of the greatest soccer moments ever was the last second goal that Landon Donovan scored against Algeria to put the Americans through to the second round. It was one of the greatest of my soccer memories. Suffice it to say, it will not be repeated, not just because Donovan is not in Brazil, but because teams will be scoring on them at will.