It seems that every pundit around is already anticipating a Brazil v Spain final. Is it really that clear cut? Should the other teams bother turning up? Logical thinking certainly points to both favourites doing well. Brazil have pedigree - five World Cups - and flair with the likes of Kaka and Robinho, as well as one of the best defences.
Spain bring with them form, confidence and a world class midfield and strike force. And there aren't many other teams in prime health at the moment.
Of the traditional big guns France have had a torrid warm-up, Portugal struggle to get the best out of Cristiano Ronaldo, Italy have an ageing squad, Germany have no stand out strikers, Argentina are managed by Maradona and England have been hit by injuries. But there is one team who look capable of challenging Brazil and Spain: Holland.
Bert van Marwijk's team have everything in place to win the tournament. They have the right blend of youth and experience, with wise heads such as Giovanni van Bronckhurst and Marc van Bommel guiding an exciting squad.
The squad has players on the top of their game, such as Wesley Snjeider, who won the champions league with Inter Milan. The right tactics are there too - they play an adventurous 4-3-3 that can turn into 4-5-1 when under pressure.
And finally, the key element is their fantasy players. In Robin van Persie and Arjen Robben (if fit) they have two players who can produce a goal out of nothing. And that is what can make the difference at the highest level.
* Thomas Woods
