Brazil’s turn to rule the world

THERE is not a team that stands out in this World

Cup field – none that deserves ultra-short odds as favourites.

But football tends to work in cycles, and since 20 years have elapsed following their last triumph in 2002, maybe it’s Brazil’s turn to rule the world again.

With the tournament being played at an unfamiliar time of year, I am inclined to back the side with the most firepower.

Neymar (right) needs two goals to equal Pele’s record of 77 for Brazil, they are going into the World Cup unbeaten in 15 games and on the back of seven straight wins.

The Brazilians are ranked No.1 in the world for a reason – they can play.

PATRIOT games are always played out in the heart, not the head.

But sweeping aside all partisan loyalties, my hunch is that Wales will reach the last 16. And England? They should take a minimum seven points from Group B, but after that the going may get heavier.

The quarter-finals may be their limit this time.