Promises to be one of the most competitive

ARGENTINA

Undoubtedly one of the favourites to win the tournament, the Lionel Messi factor is enough to put almighty fear into most opponents in a tournament that the Barcelona man hopes will help to define his incredible career. Yet to focus solely on him would be foolish. Argentina probably have the greatest attacking arsenal on the planet, with Gonzalo Higuain, Sergio Aguero and Ezequiel Lavezzi among those in tow, with Javier Mascherano and Angel Di Maria among the midfield talents. There are defensive doubts, though.

NIGERIA

Stephen Keshi’s side have strength wherever you look, beginning with formidable goalkeeper and captain Vincent Enyeama, who has been outstanding for Lille in France this season. He also takes penalties — he has 18 career goals — which could be interesting in a shootout come the knockout rounds. Anchored by John Obi Mikel in midfield, there are numerous goalscorers, including Emmanuel Emenike and Brown Ideye.

BOSNIA-HERZEGOVINA

Safet Suši’s squad may not have Argentina’s illustrious personnel, but Bosnia-Herzegovina aren't slouches in the attacking department, with Edin Dzeko and Vedad Ibisevic capable of scoring goals against anyone.

IRAN

Many will look at Carlos Queiroz’s mainly home-based squad and expect an easy ride for the other three teams in the group, but if Iran finish bottom of this group it will not be for lack of quality. Queiroz comes to Brazil with a side that has a good mix of youth and experience.

BEST GAME: Nigeria v Bosnia-Herzegovina

This promises to be the game that defines who will capture second place in the group. For Bosnia it may well be a mental test, as well as a recovery test if they are given a lesson by Argentina in the group opener. Nevertheless, all the pressure will be on Nigeria to try to sew things up here, though they cannot neglect defending against a creative Bosnia side with a flair for attack.— espnfc.com