No sport stirs the national pride of fans all over the world more than the World Cup does. In this year’s edition in Russia, rivalries will be revisited, comebacks are in order, and the game’s biggest stars are attempting to bring the world to its knees. All eyes are now on teams with the biggest buzz going into the games. As you prepare to catch the games unfold via SKY Football Season pass, here is a list of national teams you need to watch out for.
1. Germany
Germany’s Die Mannschaft’s (“The Team”) consistent performance in past World Cup editions brings the country to this list—aside from the fact that it is the reigning champion. It has an impeccable qualifying record, winning ten out of ten games.
Since 2002, the team has finished either third or better in every World Cup. The German powerhouse needs to get three points in each of their next two group stage matches after a shock defeat to a spirited “El Tri” in its opening game. Whether it can stage a back-to-back win is for all viewers to see as the last team who was successful in it was Brazil in 1962.
2. Brazil
Ever since the World Cup qualifiers, the Brazilian team has been one of the favorites to lift the trophy when the dust settles, winning twelve out of their 18 preliminary matches in the tough South American setup.
The Selecao is determined to erase from national memory its horrific 7-1 semi-finals loss to the defending champions in front of their home crowd during the 2014 World Cup.
Brazil hopes to deliver a record-breaking sixth title in Russia, but the road to glory will be long and hard, as Brazil failed to get all three points in their opening game against Switzerland, with Costa Rica and Serbia lined up for their next group matches.
3. Spain
After being knocked out at the group stage at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, 2010 winner Spain is back and out to reclaim its position as a top contender.
Its 3-0 win over Italy in the qualifying round and a 6-0 thrashing of Argentina sent out a strong statement for any team competing in Russia. That statement is reinforced in their first two group stage games against Portugal and Iran as they display their technical superiority, and their fast, progressive attacking play. La Furia Roja is currently tied with Portugal as leaders of Group B with four points each after two matches.
4. France
France has won seven out of its 10 World Cup qualifying games with its exciting and fluid attacking play. The Euro 2016 finalists will be banking on Antoinne Griezmann, arguably Le Bleus’ most in-form player in the tournament who recently inspired Atletico Madrid to Europa League glory. Joining him in the front line is exciting young star Kylian Mbappe who’s helped AS Monaco win their first Ligue 1 title in 17 years, netting in 26 goals in the 2016 – 2017 season.
France looks set for the round of 16 after their two consecutive victories against Australia and Peru. They go head-to-head against Denmark in their last group stage match.
Honorable mention goes to Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal, Croatia, Belgium, and Mexico, which may be the dark horses of this competition after their brilliant and entertaining start.
Don’t miss the chance to watch the exciting action in the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia and cheer for your favorite national side and football player in the comfort of your own homes with SKY’s Football Season pass. For only P999, you’ll get to watch the 24/7 coverage of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia in High Definition. Witness all the 64 live games commercial-free and with multiple replays. Catch the extended coverage of the matches from start to finish, which includes team arrivals, warm-ups, halftime stats and highlights, and post-match on-field interviews. Call 4180000 or your local SKY office, or visit mysky.com.ph/football to subscribe
Not only will SKY Football Season Pass subscribers get to watch their idols, but they also have the chance to win a brand new iPhone X and other amazing gadgets from Power Mac Center. Simply subscribe to the SKY Football Season Pass featuring the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia until June 30, 2018.
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