2014 FIFA World Cup preview: All Groups & All Teams
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The World Cup in Brazil begins June 12. Groups and Fixture is as followed:
In Group A of the 2014 FIFA World Cup, host nation Brazil, Croatia, Mexico and Cameroon will be playing against each other to advance to the round of 16.
- Brazil
With five World Cup titles under their belt and the advantage of being the host nation, Brazil are considered one of the favorites to win this years tournament. The "Seleçao" (The Selection) will need to improve significantly on their 2010 performance, when they fell at the quarter-final stage to a 2-1 defeat to the Netherlands.
Goalkeepers: Julio Cesar (Toronto FC), Jefferson (Botafogo), Victor (Atletico Mineiro)
Defenders: David Luiz (Chelsea), Dante (Bayern Munich), Thiago Silva (Paris Saint-Germain), Henrique (Napoli), Maicon (Roma), Dani Alves (Barcelona), Marcelo (Real Madrid), Maxwell (Paris Saint-Germain)
Midfielders: Luiz Gustavo (Wolfsburg), Paulinho (Tottenham Hotspur), Fernandinho (Manchester City), Ramires (Chelsea), Oscar (Chelsea), Willian (Chelsea), Hernanes (Inter)
Forwards: Hulk (Zenit Saint Petersburg), Bernard (Shakhtar Donetsk), Neymar (Barcelona), Jo (Atletico Mineiro), Fred (Fluminense)
Coach: Luiz Felipe Scolari
- Mexico
Known by Mexican fans as Chicharito -- little green pea -- Manchester Uniteds enthusiastic forward Javier Hernandez will aim to propel his squad in the World Cups second round. Hell be accompanied by Villareals explosive winger Giovani dos Santos who scored 12 goals and made 18 assists for his club this season.
In 2010 FIFA World Cup Mexico were knocked out of the tournament by Argentina with 3-1 in Round of 16.
Goalkeepers: Jesus Corona (Cruz Azul), Alfredo Talavera (Toluca), Guillermo Ochoa (Ajaccio)
Defenders: Paul Aguilar (America), Andres Guardado (Bayer Leverkusen), Miguel Layun (America), Rafa Marquez (Leon), Hector Moreno (Espanyol), Diego Reyes (Porto), Maza Rodriguez (America), Carlos Salcido (Tigres)
Midfielders: Juan Carlos Medina (America), Gallito Vazquez (Leon), Hector Herrera (Porto), Carlos Pena (Leon), Isaac Brizuela (Toluca), Marco Fabian (Cruz Azul), Luis Montes (Leon)
Forwards: Oribe Peralta (Santos), Javier Hernandez (Manchester United), Raul Jimenez (America), Alan Pulido (Tigres), Giovani Dos Santos (Villarreal)
Coach: Miguel Herrera
- Croatia
The height of Croatias World Cup success was a third place finish in the 1998 World Cup in France. This year's squad has the potential to repeat the feat, namely thanks to the talents of the crafty midfield pair of Luka Modric (Real Madrid) and Ivan Rakitic (Bayern Munich). Croatia's attack features Bayern Munich striker Mario Mandzukic.
Croatia did not qualify for the 2010 FIFA World Cup held in South Africa.
Goalkeepers: Stipe Pletikosa (Rostov), Danijel Subasic (Monaco), Oliver Zelenika (Lokomotiv Moscow)
Defenders: Darijo Srna (Shakhtar Donetsk), Gordon Schildenfeld (Panathinaikos), Vedran Corluka (Lokomotiv Moskova), Danijel Pranjic (Panathinaikos), Dejan Lovren (Southampton), Domagoj Vida (Dinamo Kiev), Sime Vrsaljko (Genoa)
Midfielders: Luka Modric (Real Madrid), Ivan Rakitic (Sevilla), Ivan Perisic (Wolfsburg), Mateo Kovacic (Inter), Ognjen Vukojevic (Dinamo Kiev), Marcelo Brozovic (Dinamo Zagreb), Ivan Mocinic (Rijeka), Sammir (Getafe)
Forwards: Ivica Olic (Wolfsburg), Eduardo (Shakhtar Donetsk), Mario Mandzukic (Bayern Münih), Nikica Jelavic (Hull City), Ante Rebic (Fiorentina)
Coach: Niko Kovac
- Cameroon
Cameroons 33-year old captain and record goal-scorer Samuel Etoo will play in his fourth World Cup but his team's preparation has been hindered by a player strike. The players refused to board the plane for Brazil on Sunday because of disputes over bonuses with the Cameroon football federation. They finally took off from Yaounde on Monday.
In the 2010 FIFA World Cup held in South Africa, Cameroon was eliminated in group stages.
Goalkeepers: Charles Itandje (Torku Konyaspor), Loic Feudjou (Coton Sport), Sammy Ndjock (Fethiyespor)
Defenders: Allan Nyom (Granada), Dany Nounkeu (Besiktas), Cedric Djeugoue (Coton Sport), Aurelien Chedjou (Galatasaray), Nicolas Nkoulou (Olympique de Marseille), Joel Matip (Schalke 04), Henri Bedimo (Olympique Lyon), Benoit Assou-Ekotto (Tottenham Hotspur)
Midfielders: Alexandre Song (Barcelona), Jean Makoun (Rennes), Stephane Mbia (Sevilla), Eyong Enoh (Ajax), Landry N'Guemo (Bordeaux), Edgar Salli (Lens)
Forwards: Samuel Eto'o (unattached), Eric Choupo Moting (Mainz 05), Benjamin Moukandjo (Nancy), Vincent Aboubakar (Lorient), Pierre Webo (Fenerbahce), Fabrice Olinga (Zulte-Waregem)
Coach: Volker Finke
Fixture of Group A:
June 12, Brazil vs Croatia at 2000GMT
June 13, Mexico vs Cameroon at 1600GMT
June 17, Brazil vs Mexico at 1900GMT
June 19, Cameroon vs Croatia at 2200GMT
June 23, Cameroon vs Brazil at 2000GMT
June 23, Croatia vs Mexico at 2000GMT
2014 FIFA World Cup Group B
Lastest World Cup winners Spain and last runners-up, the Netherlands, will face in Group B this year. Chile have an opportunity become the surprise team of this World Cup to reach the round of 16 and Australia hope to merely exist.
- Spain
Defending champions Spain go into the tournament with a Euro 2012 victory under their belt. Unsurprisingly, Barcelona and Real Madrid are contributing a total of 10 players but this years Liga winners Atletico Madrid will also be represented, by their star striker Diego Costa.
Spain won the 2010 World Cup in a 1-0 victory against the Netherlands.
Goalkeeper: Iker Casillas (Real Madrid), Pepe Reina (Napoli), David de Gea (Manchester United)
Defenders: Cesar Azpilicueta (Chelsea), Gerard Pique (Barcelona), Jordi Alba (Barcelona), Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid), Raul Albiol (Napoli), Juanfran (Atletico Madrid),
Midfielders: Javi Martinez (Bayern Munich) Sergio Busquets (Barcelona), Xavi (Barcelona), Andres Iniesta (Barcelona), Cesc Fabregas (Barcelona), Xabi Alonso (Real Madrid), Koke (Atletico Madrid), David Silva (Manchester City), Juan Mata (Manchester United), Santi Cazorla (Arsenal),
Forwards: Pedro Rodriguez (Barcelona), Diego Costa (Atletico Madrid), David Villa (Atletico Madrid), Fernando Torres (Chelsea)
Coach: Vicente del Bosque
- Netherlands
The Netherlands will rely on key players like Manchester United striker Robin van Persie and Bayern Munichs Arjen Robben in their bid to win the World Cup for the first time in their history. Last time around, they fell to Spain in the final.
Goalkeepers: Jasper Cillessen (Ajax), Michel Vorm (Swansea City), Tim Krul (Newcastle United)
Defenders: Paul Verhaegh (Augsburg), Daryl Janmaat (Feyenoord), Joel Veltman (Ajax), Stefan de Vrij (Feyenoord), Ron Vlaar (Aston Villa), Bruno Martins Indi (Feyenoord), Terence Kongolo (Feyenoord), Daley Blind (Ajax)
Midfielders: Leroy Fer (Norwich City), Nigel de Jong (AC Milan), Jordy Clasie (Feyenoord), Jonathan de Guzman (Swansea City), Georginio Wijnaldum (PSV), Wesley Sneijder (Galatasaray), Arjen Robben (Bayern Munich)
Forwards: Robin van Persie (Manchester United), Klaas-Jan Huntelaar (Schalke 04), Dirk Kuyt (Fenerbahce), Jeremain Lens (Dynamo Kiev), Memphis Depay (PSV)
Coach: Louis van Gaal
- Chile
Under the expert supervision of Juventus' box-to-box midfielder Arturo Vidal and Barcelona's explosive forward Alexis Sanchez, Chile has its chances to qualify.
In the 2010 FIFA World Cup held in South Africa, Chile were kicked out of the tournament by Brazil in the Round of 16.
Goalkeepers: Claudio Bravo (Real Sociedad), Johnny Herrera (Universidad de Chile), Cristopher Toselli (Universidad Catolica)
Defenders: Gary Medel (Cardiff City), Jose Rojas (Universidad de Chile), Eugenio Mena (Santos), Gonzalo Jara (Nottingham Forest)
Midfielders: Arturo Vidal (Juventus), Mauricio Isla (Juventus), Marcelo Diaz (Basel), Francisco Silva (Osasuna), Felipe Gutierrez (FC Twente), Jose Pedro Fuenzalida (Colo Colo), Carlos Carmona (Atalanta), Jean Beausejour (Wigan Athletic), Charles Aranguiz (Internacional), Miiko Albornoz (Malmo)
Forwards: Alexis Sanchez (Barcelona), Eduardo Vargas (Valencia), Jorge Valdivia (Palmeiras), Mauricio Pinilla (Cagliari), Esteban Paredes (Colo Colo), Fabian Orellana (Celta Vigo)
Coach: Jorge Sampaoli
- Australia
Australia are assuredly the weakest team in the group. They will count on their experienced striker Tim Cahill to create an upset.
In the 2010 FIFA World Cup, the 'Socceroos' were eliminated in group stages.
Goalkeepers: Eugene Galekovic (Adelaide United), Mitchell Langerak (Borussia Dortmund), Mat Ryan (Club Brugge)
Defenders: Jason Davidson (SC Heracles Almelo), Ivan Franjic (Brisbane Roar), Ryan McGowan (Shandong Luneng), Matthew Spiranovic, (Western Sydney Wanderers), Alex Wilkinson (Jeonbuk Hyundai), Bailey Wright (Preston North End)
Midfielders: Oliver Bozanic (FC Luzern), Mark Bresciano (Al Gharafa), James Holland (Austria Wien), Mile Jedinak (Crystal Palace, captain), Massimo Luongo (Swindon Town), Matthew McKay (Brisbane Roar), Mark Milligan (Melbourne Victory), Tommy Oar (FC Utrecht), James Troisi (Melbourne Victory), Dario Vidosic (FC Sion)
Forwards: Tim Cahill (New York Red Bulls), Ben Halloran (Fortuna Duesseldorf), Matthew Leckie (FSV Frankfurt), Adam Taggart (Newcastle Jets)
Coach: Ange Postecoglou
Fixture of Group B is as follows:
June 13, Spain vs Netherlands at 1900GMT
June 13, Chile vs Australia at 2200GMT
June 18, Australia vs Netherlands at 1600GMT
June 18, Spain vs Chile at 1900GMT
June 23, Netherlands vs Chile at 1600GMT
June 23, Australia vs Spain at 1600GMT
2014 FIFA World Cup Group C
Colombia, Greece, Ivory Coast and Japan will play against each other to advance to Round of 16 in Group C of 2014 FIFA World Cup.
- Colombia
Colombias star striker Radamel Falcao failed to recover from a major knee injury in time for the World Cup. His Monaco teammate James Rodriguez and Porto striker Jackson Martinez are left to make Colombians forget his absence.
Colombia did not play in 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.
Goalkeepers: David Ospina (Nice), Faryd Mondragon (Deportivo Cali), Camilo Vargas (Santa Fe)
Defenders: Camilo Zuniga (Napoli), Pablo Armero (Napoli), Cristian Zapata (AC Milan), Mario Yepes (Atalanta), Carlos Valdes (San Lorenzo), Santiago Arias (PSV Eindhoven), Eder Alvarez-Balanta (River Plate)
Midfielders: James Rodriguez (Monaco), Abel Aguilar (Toulouse), Carlos Sanchez (Elche), Fredy Guarin (Inter), Juan Fernando Quintero (Porto), Aldo Ramirez (Morelia), Alexander Mejia (Atletico Nacional), Victor Ibarbo (Cagliari), Juan Guillermo Cuadrado (Fiorentina)
Forwards: Jackson Martinez (Porto), Teofilo Gutierrez (River Plate), Carlos Bacca (Sevilla), Adrian Ramos (Borussia Dortmund)
Coach: Jose Pekerman
- Greece
Greece have only ever qualified for the World Cup twice before and will likely struggle. They are capable of surprises though, for instance, winning the 2004 Euro against all odds.
Greece were eliminated in group stages in 2010 FIFA World Cup held in South Africa.
Goalkeepers: Orestis Karnezis (Granada), Panagiotis Glykos (PAOK), Stefanos Kapino (Panathinaikos)
Defenders: Vassilis Torosidis (Roma), Loukas Vyntra (Levante), Sokratis Papastathopoulos (Borussia Dortmund), Costas Manolas (Olympiakos), Vangelis Moras (Hellas Verona), Jose Holebas (Olympiakos), Giorgos Tzavellas (PAOK), Yiannis Maniatis (Olympiakos)
Midfielders: Alexandros Tziolis (Kayserispor), Costas Katsouranis (PAOK), Giorgos Karagounis (Fulham), Andreas Samaris (Olympiakos), Panagiotis Tachtsidis (Torino), Panagiotis Kone (Bologna), Yiannis Fetfatzidis (Genoa), Lazaros Christodoulopoulos (Bologna)
Forwards: Georgios Samaras (Celtic), Kostas Mitroglou (Fulham), Theofanis Gekas (Konyaspor), Dimitris Salpingidis (PAOK)
Coach: Fernando Santos
- Ivory Coast
One of Africa's most dangerous teams this past decade, Ivory Coast still constitute a serious threat. Seasoned striker Dider Drogba captains a team full of talent and experience, including Manchester Citys incredible midfielder Yaya Toure and AS Roma's lightning-fast Gervinho (who will also arguably sport the tournament's most peculiar haircut... again).
Ivory Coast were unable to qualify for the Round of 16 in the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Goalkeepers: Boubacar Barry (Lokeren), Gbohouo Sylvain (Sewe Sport), Sayouba Mandé (Stabaek)
Defenders: Kolo Toure (Liverpool), Souleyman Bamba (Trabzonspor), Jean Daniel Akpa Akpro (Toulouse), Arthur Boka (Stuttgart), Serge Aurier (Toulouse)
Midfielders: Didier Zokora (Trabzonspor), Ousman Vieira (Caykur Rizespor), Cheik Tiote (Newcastle United), Yaya Toure (Manchester City), Romaric (Bastia), Max-Alain Gradel (Saint-Etienne), Ismael Diomande (Saint-Etienne), Didier Ya Konan (Hannover 96), Constant Djakpa (Eintracht Frankfurt), Geoffroy Serey Die (Basel)
Forwards: Wilfried Bony (Swansea City), Didier Drogba (Galatasaray), Gervinho (Roma), Giovanni Sio (Basel), Salomon Kalou (Lille)
Coach: Sabri Lamouchi
- Japan
Japan boast a handful of players capable of producing magic on the field: Manchester Uniteds Shinji Kagawa glides through the midfield, CSKA Moscows Keisuke Honda is a free-kick expert, and Mainz 05 striker Shinji Okazaki scored 15 goals in 33 games in the German Bundesliga.
Japan were eliminated by Paraguay after penalties in the Round of 16 in the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Goalkeepers: Eiji Kawashima (Standard Liege), Shusaku Nishikawa (Sanfrecce Hiroshima), Shuichi Gonda (Tokyo),
Defenders: Masahiko Inoha (Jubilo Iwata), Yasuyuki Konno (Gamba Osaka), Yuto Nagatomo (Inter), Masato Morishige (FC Tokyo), Atsuto Uchida (Schalke 04), Maya Yoshida (Southampton), Hiroki Sakai (Hannover), Gotoku Sakai (Stuttgart)
Midfielders: Yasuhito Endo (Gamba Osaka), Makoto Hasebe (Nurnberg), Toshihiro Aoyama (Sanfrecce Hiroshima), Hotaru Yamaguchi (Cerezo Osaka), Keisuke Honda (AC Milan), Yoshito Okubo (Kawasaki Frontale), Shinji Kagawa (Manchester United), Hiroshi Kiyotake (Nurnberg)
Forwards: Shinji Okazaki (Mainz 05) Yoichiro Kakitani (Cerezo Osaka), Manabu Saito (Yokohama F Marinos), Yuya Osako (1860 Munich)
Coach: Alberto Zaccheroni
Fixture of Group C is as follows:
June 14, Colombia vs Greece at 1600GMT
June 15, Ivory Coast vs Japan at 0100GMT
June 19, Colombia vs Ivory Coast at 1600GMT
June 20, Japan vs Greece at 2200GMT
June 24, Japan vs Colombia at 2000GMT
June 24, Greece vs Ivory Coast at 2000GMT
2014 FIFA World Cup Group D
Uruguay, Italy, England and Costa Rica will compete against each other in Group D which is considered to be this World Cup's "death group" by sports pundits.
- Uruguay
Uruguay offer a blistering attack that includes Liverpools tricky forward Luis Suarez and Paris Saint-Germains tireless Edison Cavani.
In the 2010 FIFA World Cup, semi-finalists Uruguay finshed fouth.
Goalkeepers: Fernando Muslera (Galatasaray), Martin Silva (Vasco Da Gama), Rodrigo Munoz (Libertad)
Defenders: Diego Lugano (West Bromwich Albion), Diego Godin and Jose Maria Gimenez (Atletico Madrid), Martin Caceres (Juventus), Maximiliano Pereira (Benfica), Jorge Fucile (Porto), Sebastian Coates (Nacional)
Midfielders: Egidio Arevalo Rios (Morelia), Walter Gargano (Parma), Diego Perez (Bologna), Alvaro Gonzalez (Lazio), Alvaro Pereira (Sao Paulo), Cristian Rodriguez (Atletico Madrid), Gaston Ramirez (Southampton), Nicolas Lodeiro (Botafogo)
Forwards: Luis Suarez (Liverpool), Edinson Cavani (Paris Saint-Germain), Diego Forlan (Cerezo Osaka), Cristian Stuani (Espanyol), Abel Hernandez (Palermo)
Coach: Oscar Tabarez
- Costa Rica
The weakest team in this deathtrap of a group, Costa Rica will most likely need a miracle to reach the Round of 16. Still, opponents will need be wary of Olympiakos striker Joel Campbell.
Costa Rica did not qualify for 2010 FIFA World Cup held in South Africa.
Goalkeepers: Keylor Navas (Levante), Patrick Pemberton (Alajuelense), Daniel Cambronero (Herediano)
Defenders: Johnny Acosta (Alajuelense), Giancarlo Gonzalez and Waylon Francis (Columbus Crew), Michael Umana, Heiner Mora (Saprissa), Oscar Duarte (Club Brugge), Junior Diaz (Mainz 05), Christian Gamboa (Rosenborg), Roy Miller (New York Red Bulls)
Midfielders: Celso Borges (AIK), Christian Bolanos (Kopenhag), Esteban Granados, Jose Miguel Cubero (Herediano), Michael Barrantes (Aalesunds), Yeltsin Tejeda (Saprissa), Diego Calvo (Valerenga)
Forwards: Bryan Ruiz (PSV Eindhoven), Joel Campbell (Olympiakos), Randall Brenes (Cartagines), Marco Urena (Kuban Krasnodar)
Coach: Jorge Luis Pinto
- England
According to pundits, Uruguay and Italy are the favorites to quality from the group but England hope their combination of experience and youthful exuberance will be the key to create a mini-upset. Established stars Steven Gerrard, Wayne Rooney and Frank Lampard will be present but manager Roy Hodgson counts on the additions of Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge and Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere to step up to the international level.
In 2010 FIFA World Cup, which was organized in South Africa, England upset their fans by getting beaten 4-1 by their rivals Germany in the Round of 16.
Goalkeepers: Joe Hart (Manchester City), Ben Foster (West Bromwich Albion), Fraser Forster (Celtic)
Defenders: Leighton Baines (Everton), Gary Cahill (Chelsea), Phil Jagielka (Everton), Glen Johnson (Liverpool), Phil Jones (Manchester United), Luke Shaw (Southampton), Chris Smalling (Manchester United)
Midfielders: Steven Gerrard (Liverpool), Jordan Henderson (Liverpool), Adam Lallana (Southampton), Frank Lampard (Chelsea), James Milner (Manchester City), Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (Arsenal), Raheem Sterling (Liverpool), Jack Wilshere (Arsenal), Ross Barkley (Everton)
Forwards: Rickie Lambert (Southampton), Wayne Rooney (Manchester United), Daniel Sturridge (Liverpool), Daniel Welbeck (Manchester United)
Coach: Roy Hodgson
- Italy
Italy will hope to reproduce the team chemistry that saw them reach the finals at the 2012 Euro. Experienced figures like goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon and midfield general Andrea Pirlo will provide Italy with experience, while the likes of AC Milan striker Mario Balotelli may be the one able to provide the touch of unpredictability that is needed to win these types of tournaments.
In the last World Cup tournament held in South Africa in 2010, Italy were eliminated in group stages.
Goalkeepers: Gianluigi Buffon (Juventus), Mattia Perin (Genoa), Salvatore Sirigu (Paris Saint-Germain)
Defenders: Ignazio Abate (AC Milan), Andrea Barzagli (Juventus), Leonardo Bonucci (Juventus), Giorgio Chiellini (Juventus), Matteo Darmian (Torino), Mattia De Sciglio (AC Milan), Gabriel Paletta (Parma)
Midfielders: Alberto Aquilani (Fiorentina), Antonio Candreva (Lazio), Daniele De Rossi (Roma), Claudio Marchisio (Juventus), Thiago Motta (Paris Saint-Germain), Marco Parolo (Parma), Andrea Pirlo (Juventus), Marco Verratti (Paris Saint-Germain)
Forwards: Mario Balotelli (AC Milan), Antonio Cassano (Parma), Alessio Cerci (Torino), Ciro Immobile (Borussia Dortmund), Lorenzo Insigne (Napoli)
Coach: Cesare Prandelli
Fixture of Group D is as follows:
June 14, Uruguay vs Costa Rica at 1900GMT
June 14, England vs Italy at 2200GMT
June 19, Uruguay vs England at 1900GMT
June 20, Italy vs Costa Rica at 1600GMT
June 24, Italy vs Uruguay at 1600GMT
June 24, Costa Rica vs England at 1600GMT
2014 FIFA World Cup Group E
Switzerland, Ecuador, France and Honduras constitute Group E of 2014 FIFA World Cup, considered the weakest by sports pundits.
- Switzerland
Switzerland are best known for their frugal defense and timid offense. Still, some players such as the exciting Bayern Munich winger, Xherdan Shaqiri, and Eintracht Frankfurts free-kick expert, Tranquillo Barnetta are worth the detour.
In the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Switzerland were eliminated in group stages.
Goalkeepers: Diego Benaglio (Wolfsburg), Yann Sommer (Basel), Roman Buerki (Grasshoppers)
Defenders: Stephan Lichtsteiner (Juventus), Reto Ziegler (Sassuolo), Michael Lang (Grasshoppers), Steve von Bergen (Young Boys), Philippe Senderos (Valencia), Johan Djourou (Hamburg), Ricardo Rodriguez (Wolfsburg), Fabian Schaer (Basel)
Midfielders: Gokhan Inler (Napoli), Valentin Stocker (Basel), Tranquillo Barnetta (Schalke 04), Granit Xhaka (Borussia Monchengladbach), Valon Behrami (Napoli), Blerim Dzemaili (Napoli), Gelson Fernandes (Freiburg), Xherdan Shaqiri (Bayern Munich)
Forwards: Haris Seferovic (Real Sociedad), Josip Drmic (Bayer Leverkusen), Admir Mehmedi (Freiburg), Mario Gavranovic (Zurich)
Coach: Ottmar Hitzfeld
- Ecuador
Manchester Uniteds explosive winger Antonio Valencia will hope to drive his team to success and they might just have an outside chance if France or Switzerland slip up.
Ecuador lastly qualified for the 2006 FIFA World Cup where they reached the Round of 16.
Goalkeepers: Maximo Banguera (Barcelona-Ecuador), Adrian Bone (El Nacional), Alexander Dominguez (Liga de Quito)
Defenders: Gabriel Achilier (Emelec), Walter Ayovi (Pachuca), Oscar Bagui (Emelec), Frickson Erazo (Flamengo), Jorge Guagua (Emelec), Juan Carlos Paredes (Barcelona-Ecuador)
Midfielders: Segundo Castillo (Al Hilal), Carlos Gruezo (Stuttgart), Renato Ibarra (Vitesse Arnhem), Fidel Martinez (Tijuana), Edison Mendez (Santa Fe), Christian Noboa (Dinamo Moscow), Luis Saritama (Liga de Quito), Antonio Valencia (Manchester United)
Forwards: Jaime Ayovi (Tijuana), Felipe Caicedo (Al Jazira), Jefferson Montero (Morelia), Joao Rojas (Cruz Azul), Enner Valencia (Pachuca), Michael Arroyo (Atlante)
Coach: Reinaldo Rueda
- France
Didier Deschamps captained France to a World Cup victory in 1998. Now, 16 years later, he hopes to guide them to another win -- as the manager. Undeterred by Franck Ribery's forfeit due to injury, Deschamps has tried to build a solid team unit that includes a host of talent, including Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema and Juventus enthusiastic midfielder Paul Pogba.
'Les Bleus' failed to qualify for the knock-out stage in the 2010 FIFA World Cup and are better remembered for their infamous strike, refusing to get out of the bus for practice, to protest striker Nicolas Anelka's eviction from the team. He had insulted the coach during a halftime break.
Goalkeepers: Hugo Lloris (Tottenham Hotspur), Stephane Ruffier (Saint-Etienne), Mickael Landreau (Bastia)
Defenders: Mathieu Debuchy (Newcastle United), Lucas Digne (Paris Saint-Germain), Patrice Evra (Manchester United), Laurent Koscielny (Arsenal), Eliaquim Mangala (Porto), Bacary Sagna (Arsenal), Mamadou Sakho (Liverpool), Raphael Varane (Real Madrid)
Midfielders: Yohan Cabaye (Paris Saint-Germain), Blaise Matuidi (Paris Saint-Germain), Rio Mavuba (Lille), Paul Pogba (Juventus), Moussa Sissoko (Newcastle United), Mathieu Valbuena (Olympique de Marseille), Morgan Schneiderlin (Southampton)
Forwards: Karim Benzema (Real Madrid), Olivier Giroud (Arsenal), Antoine Griezmann (Real Sociedad), Loic Remy (Newcastle United), Remy Cabella (Montpellier)
Coach: Didier Deschamps
- Honduras
Honduras do not have a distinguished World Cup record, appearing only twice before. They stand little chance to qualify for the next round.
In the 2010 FIFA World Cup Honduras were eliminated in group stages.
Goalkeepers: Noel Valladares and Donis Escober (Olimpia), Luis Lopez (Real Espana)
Defenders: Victor Bernardez (San Jose Earthquakes), Osman Chavez (Qingdao Janoon), Juan Pablo Montes (Motagua), Brayan Beckeles (Olimpia), Juan Carlos Garcia (Wigan), Maynor Figueroa (Hull)
Midfielders: Emilio Izaguirre (Celtic), Edder Delgado (Real Espana), Luis Garrido (Olimpia), Roger Espinoza (Wigan), Jorge Claros (Motagua), Wilson Palacios (Stoke City), Oscar Garcia (Houston Dynamo), Andy Najar (Anderlecht), Mario Martinez (Real Espana), Marvin Chavez (Colorado Rapids), Jerry Palacios (Alajuelense)
Forwards: Carlo Costly (Real Espana), Rony Martinez (Real Sociedad), Jerry Bengtson (New England Revolution)
Coach: Luis Fernando Suarez
Fixture of Group E is as follows:
June 15, Switzerland vs Ecuador at 1600GMT
June 15, France vs Honduras at 1900GMT
June 20, Switzerland vs France at 1900GMT
June 20, Honduras vs Ecuador at 2200GMT
June 25, Honduras vs Switzerland at 2000GMT
June 25, Ecuador vs France at 2000GMT
2014 FIFA World Cup Group F
Argentina, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iran and Nigeria will all face off in one of the World Cup's most eclectic, and possibly most interesting, groups
- Argentina
Brazil's archrivals are one of the odds-on favorites to win the tournament this year. Real Madrids Angel di Maria, Manchester Citys determined striker Sergio Aguero and, of course, Barcelonas leading star Lionel Messi are just some of the stars that constitute the talented squad.
Argentina were eliminated by Germany with a 4-0 score in quarter final phase in 2010 FIFA World Cup held in South Africa.
Argentina's squad for World Cup is as follows:
Goalkeepers: Sergio Romero (Monaco), Mariano Andujar (Catania), Agustin Orion (Boca Juniors)
Defenders: Ezequiel Garay (Benfica), Federico Fernandez (Napoli), Pablo Zabaleta (Manchester City), Marcos Rojo (Sporting Lisbon), Jose-Maria Basanta (Monterrey), Hugo Campagnaro (Inter), Martin Demichelis (Manchester City)
Midfielders: Fernando Gago (Boca Juniors), Lucas Biglia (Lazio), Javier Mascherano (Barcelona), Angel Di Maria (Real Madrid), Maxi Rodriguez (Newell's Old Boys), Ricardo Alvarez (Inter), Augusto Fernandez (Celta Vigo), Enzo Perez (Benfica)
Forwards: Sergio Aguero (Manchester City), Lionel Messi (Barcelona), Gonzalo Higuain (Napoli), Ezequiel Lavezzi (Paris Saint Germain), Rodrigo Palacio (Inter)
Coach: Alejandro Sabella
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
This is the first time Bosnia and Herzegovina qualify for a World Cup tournament in their history.
With their attack led by Manchester City striker Edin Dzeko, Bosnia and Herzegovina will present a tough physical game to any opponent.
Bosnia and Herzegovina's squad for 2014 FIFA World Cup is as follows:
Goalkeepers: Asmir Begovic (Stoke City), Jasmin Fejzic (Aalen), Asmir Avdukic (Borac Banja Luka)
Defenders: Emir Spahic (Bayer Leverkusen), Toni Sunjic (Zorya Luhansk), Sead Kolasinac (Schalke 04), Ognjen Vranjes (Elazigspor), Ermin Bicakcic (Eintracht Braunschweig), Muhamed Besic (Ferencvaros), Mensur Mujdza (Freiburg)
Midfielders: Miralem Pjanic (Roma), Izet Hajrovic (Galatasaray), Haris Medunjanin (Gaziantepspor), Senad Lulic (Lazio), Anel Hadzic (Sturm Graz), Tino-Sven Susic (Hajduk Split), Sejad Salihovic (Hoffenheim), Zvjezdan Misimovic (Guizhou Renhe), Senijad Ibricic (Kayseri Erciyespor), Avdija Vrsajevic (Hajduk Split)
Forwards: Vedad Ibisevic (Stuttgart), Edin Dzeko (Manchester City), Edin Visca (Istanbul Buyuksehir Belediyesi)
Coach: Safet Susic
- Iran
Former Portugal and Real Madrid coach Carlos Queiroz successfully guided Iran through qualifications but his team is somewhat of a question mark.
Iran did not qualify for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Goalkeepers: Daniel Davari (Eintracht Braunschweig), Rahman Ahmadi (Sepahan Isfahan), Alireza Haqiqi (Sporting da Covilha)
Defenders: Hossein Mahini (Persepolis), Jalal Hosseini (Persepolis), Amir Hossein Sadeqi (Esteghlal), Mehrdad Pouladi (Persepolis), Ahmad Alenemeh (Naft Tehran), Pejman Montazeri (Umm Salal), Steven Beitashour (Vancouver Whitecaps)
Midfielders: Hashem Beykzadeh (Esteghlal), Reza Haghighi (Persepolis), Andranik Teymourian (Esteghlal), Ghasem Hadadifar (Zob Ahan Isfahan), Javad Nekounam (Kuwait), Ehsan Haji safi (Sepahan Isfahan), Bakhtiar Rahmani (Foolad)
Forwards: Khosrow Heidari (Esteghlal), Karim Ansarifard (Tractor Sazi), Reza Ghoochannejhad (Charlton Athletic), Alireza Jahanbakhsh (NEC), Masoud Shojaei (Las Palmas), Ashkan Dejagah (Fulham)
Coach: Carlos Queiroz
- Nigeria
Nigeria are the current holders of the African Cup of Nations. They performed strongly in last years Confederations Cup and will be optimistic under the guidance of ruthless, but successful, manager Stephen Keshi.
In the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Nigeria were eliminated in group stages.
Goalkeepers: Vincent Enyeama (Lille), Chigozie Agbim (Gombe United), Austin Ejide (Hapoel Be'er Sheva)
Defenders: Elderson Echiejile (Monaco), Efe Ambrose (Celtic), Godfrey Oboabona (Caykur Rizespor), Azubuike Egwuekwe (Warri Wolves), Kenneth Omeruo (Middlesbrough), Juwon Oshaniwa (Ashdod), Joseph Yobo (Norwich City), Kunle Odunlami (Sunshine Stars)
Midfielders: John Mikel Obi (Chelsea), Ogenyi Onazi (Lazio), Gabriel Reuben (Beveren), Michael Uchebo (Cercle Brugge), Ramon Azeez (Almeria)
Forwards: Ahmed Musa (CSKA Moscow), Shola Ameobi (Newcastle United), Victor Moses (Chelsea), Emmanuel Emenike (Fenerbahce), Peter Odemwingie, (Stoke City), Uche Nwofor (Heerenveen), Babatunde Michael (Volyn)
Coach: Stephen Keshi
Fixture of Group F is as follows:
June 15, Argentina vs Bosnia and Herzegovina at 2200GMT
June 16, Iran vs Nigeria at 1900GMT
June 21, Argentina vs Iran at 1600GMT
June 21, Nigeria vs Bosnia and Herzegovina at 2200GMT
June 25, Nigeria vs Argentina at 1600GMT
June 25, Bosnia and Herzegovina vs Iran at 1600GMT
2014 FIFA World Cup Group G
Group G of the 2014 FIFA World Cup can be considered as the second "death group." because, while Germany stands as the favorite among the four teams, Portugal, USA and Ghana make for a homogenous set of challengers.
- Germany
Germany were almost invincible during qualification and with a raft of stars they are regarded as one of the favorites to win the tournament. They will however be missing some important regulars like Bayer Leverkusens Lars Bender and Borussia Dortmunds Ilkay Gundogan. But, Bayern Munich's Mario Gotze and Arsenal's Mesut Ozil are nothing to sneer at.
In the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Germany were knocked out of the tournament by champions Spain in the semifinals.
Goalkeepers: Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich), Roman Weidenfeller (Borussia Dortmund), Ron-Robert Zieler (Hannover 96)
Defenders: Jerome Boateng (Bayern Munich), Philipp Lahm (Bayern Munich), Erik Durm (Borussia Dortmund), Mats Hummels (Borussia Dortmund), Kevin Grosskreutz (Borussia Dortmund), Benedikt Höwedes (Schalke 04), Per Mertesacker (Arsenal)
Midfielders: Matthias Ginter (Freiburg), Cristoph Kramer (Borussia Monchengladbach), Julian Draxler (Schalke 04), Mario Gotze (Bayern Munich), Sami Khedira (Real Madrid), Toni Kroos (Bayern Munich), Thomas Muller (Bayern Munich), Mesut Ozil (Arsenal), Shkodran Mustafi (UC Sampdoria), Andre Schurrle (Chelsea), Lukas Podolski (Arsenal), Bastian Schweinsteiger (Bayern Munich)
Forward: Miroslav Klose (Lazio)
Coach: Joachim Löw
- Portugal
Managed by former international Paulo Bento, Portugal hope that Cristiano Ronaldo can lead them to glory. He will be accompanied by a strong defense and a creative midfield, including Monacos Joao Moutinho and Fenerbahces Raul Meireles.
In the last World Cup in 2010, Portugal were eliminated by the champions, Spain, in the Round of 16.
Goalkeepers: Rui Patricio (Sporting Lisbon), Beto (Sevilla), Eduardo (Braga)
Defenders: Andre Almeida (Benfica), Bruno Alves (Fenerbahce), Fabio Coentrao (Real Madrid), Joao Pereira (Valencia), Neto (Zenit), Pepe (Real Madrid), Ricardo Costa (Valencia)
Midfielders: Joao Moutinho (Monaco), Miguel Veloso (Dinamo Kiev), Raul Meireles (Fenerbahce), Ruben Amorim (Benfica), William Carvalho (Sporting Lisbon)
Forwards: Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid), Eder (Braga), Helder Postiga (Lazio), Hugo Almeida (Besiktas), Nani (Manchester United), Rafa (Braga), Varela (Porto), Vieirinha (Wolfsburg)
Coach: Paulo Bento
- Ghana
This is the Ghana's third World Cup appearance. Their play is well-disciplined and they will rely on established players like striker Asamoah Gyan, and AC Milan midfielder Sulley Muntari.
In the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Ghana managed to reach quarterfinals only to be ousted by Uruguay.
Goalkeepers: Fatau Dauda (Orlando Pirates), Adam Kwarasey (Stromsgodset), Stephen Adams (Aduana Stars)
Defenders: Samuel Inkoom (Platanias), Daniel Opare (Standard Liege), Harrison Afful (Esperance), John Boye (Rennes), Jonathan Mensah (Evian), Rashid Sumalia (Mamelodi Sundowns)
Midfielders: Michael Essien (AC Milan), Sulley Muntari (AC Milan), Rabiu Mohammed (Kuban Krasnodar), Kwadwo Asamoah (Juventus), Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu (Udinese), Afriyie Acquah (Parma), Christian Atsu (Vitesse), Albert Adomah (Middlesbrough), Andre Ayew (Olympique de Marseille), Mubarak Wakaso (Rubin Kazan)
Forwards: Asamoah Gyan (Al Ain), Kevin-Prince Boateng (Schalke 04), Abdul Majeed Waris (Valenciennes), Jordan Ayew (Sochaux)
Coach: Kwesi Appiah
- USA
The U.S. national team, managed by German legend Jurgen Klinsmann, is in a tough group but its industrious and athletic players might be able to force them through.
In the 2010 FIFA World Cup, USA was eliminated by Ghana in overtime in the Round of 16.
Goalkeeper: Brad Guzan (Aston Villa), Tim Howard (Everton), Nick Rimando (Real Salt Lake)
Defenders: DaMarcus Beasley (Puebla), Matt Besler (Sporting Kansas City), John Brooks (Hertha Berlin), Geoff Cameron (Stoke City), Timmy Chandler (Nurnberg), Omar Gonzalez (Los Angeles Galaxy), Fabian Johnson (Borussia Monchengladbach), DeAndre Yedlin (Seattle Sounders)
Midfielders: Kyle Beckerman (Real Salt Lake), Alejandro Bedoya (Nantes), Michael Bradley (Toronto), Brad Davis (Houston Dynamo), Mix Diskerud (Rosenborg), Julian Green (Bayern Munich), Jermaine Jones (Besiktas), Graham Zusi (Sporting Kansas City)
Forwards: Jozy Altidore (Sunderland), Clint Dempsey (Seattle Sounders), Aron Johannsson (AZ Alkmaar), Chris Wondolowski (San Jose Earthquakes)
Coach: Jurgen Klinsmann
Fixture of Group G is as follows:
June 16, Germany vs Portugal at 1600GMT
June 16, Ghana vs USA 2200GMT
June 21, Germany vs Ghana at 1900GMT
June 22, USA vs Portugal at 2200GMT
June 26, USA vs Germany at 1600GMT
June 26, Portugal vs Ghana at 1600GMT
2014 FIFA World Cup Group H
Two European teams Belgium and Russia, an Asian team, South Korea, and Algeria from Africa make up one of the most intriguing and anticipated groups of the World Cup.
- Belgium
The Red Devils are back! Belgium have drawn a lot of attention with a group of young stars including goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, Chelsea winger Eden Hazard and Manchester United wonderkid Adnan Januzaj. They had no problems qualifying for the World Cup and the football world will keep an eye on their performance.
Belgium missed the 2006 and 2010 FIFA World Cups.
Goalkeepers: Thibaut Courtois (Chelsea), Simon Mignolet (Liverpool), Sammy Bossut (Zulte-Waregem)
Defenders: Toby Alderweireld (Atletico Madrid), Anthony Vanden Borre (Anderlecht), Daniel Van Buyten (Bayern Münih), Vincent Kompany (Manchester City), Jan Vertonghen (Tottenham Hotspur), Thomas Vermaelen (Arsenal), Nicolas Lombaerts (Zenit Saint Petersburg), Laurent Ciman (Standard Liege)
Midfielders: Axel Witsel (Zenit Saint Petersburg), Marouane Fellaini (Manchester United), Steven Defour (Porto), Moussa Dembele, Nacer Chadli (Tottenham Hotspur), Kevin De Bruyne (Wolfsburg)
Forwards: Romelu Lukaku (Chelsea), Divock Origi (Lille), Eden Hazard (Chelsea), Kevin Mirallas (Everton), Dries Mertens (Napoli), Adnan Januzaj (Manchester United)
Coach: Marc Wilmots
- Algeria
Coached by Paris Saint-Germains former manager - and notorious disciplinarian - Vahid Halilhodzic, the North African team has enough talent to cause an upset... or two.
Having qualified for the World Cup tournaments three times so far, Algeria were eliminated in group stages in 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Goalkeepers: Mohamed Lamine Zemmamouche (USM Alger), Rais Mbolhi (CSKA Sofia), Cedric Si Mohamed (CS Constantine)
Defenders: Carl Medjani (Valenciennes), Aissa Mandi (Reims), Madjid Bougherra (Lekhwiya), Faouzi Ghoulam (Napoli), Rafik Halliche (Academica), Essaid Belkalem (Watford), Liassine Cadamuro (Mallorca), Djamel Mesbah (Livorno), Mehdi Mostefa (Ajaccio)
Midfielders: Sofiane Feghouli (Valencia), Saphir Taider (Inter), Medhi Lacen (Getafe), Abdelmoumen Djabou (Club Africain), Yacine Brahimi (Granada), Nabil Bentaleb (Tottenham Hotspur), Hassan Yebda (Udinese), Riyad Mahrez (Leicester)
Forwards: Islam Slimani (Sporting Lisbon), Hilal Soudani (Dinamo Zagreb), Nabil Ghilas (Porto)
Coach: Vahid Halilhodzic
- Russia
Russia have not played in the World Cup since 2002, when they were eliminated in the group stages. But led by Italian coach Fabio Capello, they will hope for better this time around.
Goalkeepers: Igor Akinfeev (CSKA Moscow), Yury Lodygin (Zenit), Sergei Ryzhikov (Rubin Kazan)
Defenders: Vasily Berezutsky, Sergei Ignashevich, Georgy Shchennikov (CSKA Moscow), Vladimir Granat, Alexei Kozlov (Dinamo Moscow), Andrei Yeshchenko (Anzhi), Dmitry Kombarov (Spartak Moscow), Andrei Semenov (Terek Grozny)
Midfielders: Igor Denisov, Yury Zhirkov (Dinamo Moscow), Alan Dzagoev (CSKA Moscow), Pavel Mogilevets (Zenit Saint Petersburg), Denis Glushakov (Spartak Moscow), Viktor Faizulin, Oleg Shatov (Zenit)
Forwards: Alexander Kerzhakov (Zenit Saint Petersburg), Alexei Ionov, Alexander Kokorin (Dinamo Moscow), Maxim Kanunnikov (Amkar), Alexander Samedov (Lokomotiv Moscow)
Coach: Fabio Capello
- South Korea
South Korea will be competing in a World Cup tournament for the 9th time. They have always proved competitive in recent tournaments and that is not expected to change this year.
South Korea squad is as follows:
Goalkeepers: Jung Sung-ryong (Suwon Bluewings), Kim Seung-gyu (Ulsan Hyundai), Lee Bum-young (Busan IPark)
Defenders: Kim Jin-soo (Albirex Niigata), Yun Suk-young (Queens Park Rangers), Kim Young-gwon (Guangzhou Evergrande), Hwang Seok-ho (Sanfrecce Hiroshima), Hong Jeong-ho (Augsburg), Kwak Tae-hwi (Al-Hilal), Lee Yong (Ulsan Hyundai), Kim Chang-soo (Kashiwa Reysol)
Midfielders: Ki Sung-yueng (Sunderland), Ha Dae-sung (Beijing Guoan), Han Kook-young (Kashiwa Reysol), Park Jong-woo (Guangzhou R&F), Son Heung-min (Bayer Leverkusen), Kim Bo-kyung (Cardiff City), Lee Chung-yong (Bolton Wanderers), Ji Dong-won (Augusburg)
Forwards: Koo Ja-cheol (Mainz 05), Lee Keun-ho (Sangju Sangmu), Park Chu-young (Watford), Kim Shin-wook (Ulsan Hyundai)
Coach: Hong Myung-bo
Fixture of Group H is as follows:
June 17, Belgium vs Algeria at 1600GMT
June 17, Russia vs South Korea at 2200GMT
June 22, Belgium vs Russia at 1600GMT
June 22, South Korea vs Algeria at 1900GMT
June 26, South Korea vs Belgium at 2000GMT
June 26, Algeria vs Russia at 2000GMT
- Brazil
With five World Cup titles under their belt and the advantage of being the host nation, Brazil are considered one of the favorites to win this years tournament. The "Seleçao" (The Selection) will need to improve significantly on their 2010 performance, when they fell at the quarter-final stage to a 2-1 defeat to the Netherlands.
Goalkeepers: Julio Cesar (Toronto FC), Jefferson (Botafogo), Victor (Atletico Mineiro)
Defenders: David Luiz (Chelsea), Dante (Bayern Munich), Thiago Silva (Paris Saint-Germain), Henrique (Napoli), Maicon (Roma), Dani Alves (Barcelona), Marcelo (Real Madrid), Maxwell (Paris Saint-Germain)
Midfielders: Luiz Gustavo (Wolfsburg), Paulinho (Tottenham Hotspur), Fernandinho (Manchester City), Ramires (Chelsea), Oscar (Chelsea), Willian (Chelsea), Hernanes (Inter)
Forwards: Hulk (Zenit Saint Petersburg), Bernard (Shakhtar Donetsk), Neymar (Barcelona), Jo (Atletico Mineiro), Fred (Fluminense)
Coach: Luiz Felipe Scolari
- Mexico
Known by Mexican fans as Chicharito -- little green pea -- Manchester Uniteds enthusiastic forward Javier Hernandez will aim to propel his squad in the World Cups second round. Hell be accompanied by Villareals explosive winger Giovani dos Santos who scored 12 goals and made 18 assists for his club this season.
In 2010 FIFA World Cup Mexico were knocked out of the tournament by Argentina with 3-1 in Round of 16.
Goalkeepers: Jesus Corona (Cruz Azul), Alfredo Talavera (Toluca), Guillermo Ochoa (Ajaccio)
Defenders: Paul Aguilar (America), Andres Guardado (Bayer Leverkusen), Miguel Layun (America), Rafa Marquez (Leon), Hector Moreno (Espanyol), Diego Reyes (Porto), Maza Rodriguez (America), Carlos Salcido (Tigres)
Midfielders: Juan Carlos Medina (America), Gallito Vazquez (Leon), Hector Herrera (Porto), Carlos Pena (Leon), Isaac Brizuela (Toluca), Marco Fabian (Cruz Azul), Luis Montes (Leon)
Forwards: Oribe Peralta (Santos), Javier Hernandez (Manchester United), Raul Jimenez (America), Alan Pulido (Tigres), Giovani Dos Santos (Villarreal)
Coach: Miguel Herrera
- Croatia
The height of Croatias World Cup success was a third place finish in the 1998 World Cup in France. This year's squad has the potential to repeat the feat, namely thanks to the talents of the crafty midfield pair of Luka Modric (Real Madrid) and Ivan Rakitic (Bayern Munich). Croatia's attack features Bayern Munich striker Mario Mandzukic.
Croatia did not qualify for the 2010 FIFA World Cup held in South Africa.
Goalkeepers: Stipe Pletikosa (Rostov), Danijel Subasic (Monaco), Oliver Zelenika (Lokomotiv Moscow)
Defenders: Darijo Srna (Shakhtar Donetsk), Gordon Schildenfeld (Panathinaikos), Vedran Corluka (Lokomotiv Moskova), Danijel Pranjic (Panathinaikos), Dejan Lovren (Southampton), Domagoj Vida (Dinamo Kiev), Sime Vrsaljko (Genoa)
Midfielders: Luka Modric (Real Madrid), Ivan Rakitic (Sevilla), Ivan Perisic (Wolfsburg), Mateo Kovacic (Inter), Ognjen Vukojevic (Dinamo Kiev), Marcelo Brozovic (Dinamo Zagreb), Ivan Mocinic (Rijeka), Sammir (Getafe)
Forwards: Ivica Olic (Wolfsburg), Eduardo (Shakhtar Donetsk), Mario Mandzukic (Bayern Münih), Nikica Jelavic (Hull City), Ante Rebic (Fiorentina)
Coach: Niko Kovac
- Cameroon
Cameroons 33-year old captain and record goal-scorer Samuel Etoo will play in his fourth World Cup but his team's preparation has been hindered by a player strike. The players refused to board the plane for Brazil on Sunday because of disputes over bonuses with the Cameroon football federation. They finally took off from Yaounde on Monday.
In the 2010 FIFA World Cup held in South Africa, Cameroon was eliminated in group stages.
Goalkeepers: Charles Itandje (Torku Konyaspor), Loic Feudjou (Coton Sport), Sammy Ndjock (Fethiyespor)
Defenders: Allan Nyom (Granada), Dany Nounkeu (Besiktas), Cedric Djeugoue (Coton Sport), Aurelien Chedjou (Galatasaray), Nicolas Nkoulou (Olympique de Marseille), Joel Matip (Schalke 04), Henri Bedimo (Olympique Lyon), Benoit Assou-Ekotto (Tottenham Hotspur)
Midfielders: Alexandre Song (Barcelona), Jean Makoun (Rennes), Stephane Mbia (Sevilla), Eyong Enoh (Ajax), Landry N'Guemo (Bordeaux), Edgar Salli (Lens)
Forwards: Samuel Eto'o (unattached), Eric Choupo Moting (Mainz 05), Benjamin Moukandjo (Nancy), Vincent Aboubakar (Lorient), Pierre Webo (Fenerbahce), Fabrice Olinga (Zulte-Waregem)
Coach: Volker Finke
Fixture of Group A:
June 12, Brazil vs Croatia at 2000GMT
June 13, Mexico vs Cameroon at 1600GMT
June 17, Brazil vs Mexico at 1900GMT
June 19, Cameroon vs Croatia at 2200GMT
June 23, Cameroon vs Brazil at 2000GMT
June 23, Croatia vs Mexico at 2000GMT
2014 FIFA World Cup Group B
Lastest World Cup winners Spain and last runners-up, the Netherlands, will face in Group B this year. Chile have an opportunity become the surprise team of this World Cup to reach the round of 16 and Australia hope to merely exist.
- Spain
Defending champions Spain go into the tournament with a Euro 2012 victory under their belt. Unsurprisingly, Barcelona and Real Madrid are contributing a total of 10 players but this years Liga winners Atletico Madrid will also be represented, by their star striker Diego Costa.
Spain won the 2010 World Cup in a 1-0 victory against the Netherlands.
Goalkeeper: Iker Casillas (Real Madrid), Pepe Reina (Napoli), David de Gea (Manchester United)
Defenders: Cesar Azpilicueta (Chelsea), Gerard Pique (Barcelona), Jordi Alba (Barcelona), Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid), Raul Albiol (Napoli), Juanfran (Atletico Madrid),
Midfielders: Javi Martinez (Bayern Munich) Sergio Busquets (Barcelona), Xavi (Barcelona), Andres Iniesta (Barcelona), Cesc Fabregas (Barcelona), Xabi Alonso (Real Madrid), Koke (Atletico Madrid), David Silva (Manchester City), Juan Mata (Manchester United), Santi Cazorla (Arsenal),
Forwards: Pedro Rodriguez (Barcelona), Diego Costa (Atletico Madrid), David Villa (Atletico Madrid), Fernando Torres (Chelsea)
Coach: Vicente del Bosque
- Netherlands
The Netherlands will rely on key players like Manchester United striker Robin van Persie and Bayern Munichs Arjen Robben in their bid to win the World Cup for the first time in their history. Last time around, they fell to Spain in the final.
Goalkeepers: Jasper Cillessen (Ajax), Michel Vorm (Swansea City), Tim Krul (Newcastle United)
Defenders: Paul Verhaegh (Augsburg), Daryl Janmaat (Feyenoord), Joel Veltman (Ajax), Stefan de Vrij (Feyenoord), Ron Vlaar (Aston Villa), Bruno Martins Indi (Feyenoord), Terence Kongolo (Feyenoord), Daley Blind (Ajax)
Midfielders: Leroy Fer (Norwich City), Nigel de Jong (AC Milan), Jordy Clasie (Feyenoord), Jonathan de Guzman (Swansea City), Georginio Wijnaldum (PSV), Wesley Sneijder (Galatasaray), Arjen Robben (Bayern Munich)
Forwards: Robin van Persie (Manchester United), Klaas-Jan Huntelaar (Schalke 04), Dirk Kuyt (Fenerbahce), Jeremain Lens (Dynamo Kiev), Memphis Depay (PSV)
Coach: Louis van Gaal
- Chile
Under the expert supervision of Juventus' box-to-box midfielder Arturo Vidal and Barcelona's explosive forward Alexis Sanchez, Chile has its chances to qualify.
In the 2010 FIFA World Cup held in South Africa, Chile were kicked out of the tournament by Brazil in the Round of 16.
Goalkeepers: Claudio Bravo (Real Sociedad), Johnny Herrera (Universidad de Chile), Cristopher Toselli (Universidad Catolica)
Defenders: Gary Medel (Cardiff City), Jose Rojas (Universidad de Chile), Eugenio Mena (Santos), Gonzalo Jara (Nottingham Forest)
Midfielders: Arturo Vidal (Juventus), Mauricio Isla (Juventus), Marcelo Diaz (Basel), Francisco Silva (Osasuna), Felipe Gutierrez (FC Twente), Jose Pedro Fuenzalida (Colo Colo), Carlos Carmona (Atalanta), Jean Beausejour (Wigan Athletic), Charles Aranguiz (Internacional), Miiko Albornoz (Malmo)
Forwards: Alexis Sanchez (Barcelona), Eduardo Vargas (Valencia), Jorge Valdivia (Palmeiras), Mauricio Pinilla (Cagliari), Esteban Paredes (Colo Colo), Fabian Orellana (Celta Vigo)
Coach: Jorge Sampaoli
- Australia
Australia are assuredly the weakest team in the group. They will count on their experienced striker Tim Cahill to create an upset.
In the 2010 FIFA World Cup, the 'Socceroos' were eliminated in group stages.
Goalkeepers: Eugene Galekovic (Adelaide United), Mitchell Langerak (Borussia Dortmund), Mat Ryan (Club Brugge)
Defenders: Jason Davidson (SC Heracles Almelo), Ivan Franjic (Brisbane Roar), Ryan McGowan (Shandong Luneng), Matthew Spiranovic, (Western Sydney Wanderers), Alex Wilkinson (Jeonbuk Hyundai), Bailey Wright (Preston North End)
Midfielders: Oliver Bozanic (FC Luzern), Mark Bresciano (Al Gharafa), James Holland (Austria Wien), Mile Jedinak (Crystal Palace, captain), Massimo Luongo (Swindon Town), Matthew McKay (Brisbane Roar), Mark Milligan (Melbourne Victory), Tommy Oar (FC Utrecht), James Troisi (Melbourne Victory), Dario Vidosic (FC Sion)
Forwards: Tim Cahill (New York Red Bulls), Ben Halloran (Fortuna Duesseldorf), Matthew Leckie (FSV Frankfurt), Adam Taggart (Newcastle Jets)
Coach: Ange Postecoglou
Fixture of Group B is as follows:
June 13, Spain vs Netherlands at 1900GMT
June 13, Chile vs Australia at 2200GMT
June 18, Australia vs Netherlands at 1600GMT
June 18, Spain vs Chile at 1900GMT
June 23, Netherlands vs Chile at 1600GMT
June 23, Australia vs Spain at 1600GMT
2014 FIFA World Cup Group C
Colombia, Greece, Ivory Coast and Japan will play against each other to advance to Round of 16 in Group C of 2014 FIFA World Cup.
- Colombia
Colombias star striker Radamel Falcao failed to recover from a major knee injury in time for the World Cup. His Monaco teammate James Rodriguez and Porto striker Jackson Martinez are left to make Colombians forget his absence.
Colombia did not play in 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.
Goalkeepers: David Ospina (Nice), Faryd Mondragon (Deportivo Cali), Camilo Vargas (Santa Fe)
Defenders: Camilo Zuniga (Napoli), Pablo Armero (Napoli), Cristian Zapata (AC Milan), Mario Yepes (Atalanta), Carlos Valdes (San Lorenzo), Santiago Arias (PSV Eindhoven), Eder Alvarez-Balanta (River Plate)
Midfielders: James Rodriguez (Monaco), Abel Aguilar (Toulouse), Carlos Sanchez (Elche), Fredy Guarin (Inter), Juan Fernando Quintero (Porto), Aldo Ramirez (Morelia), Alexander Mejia (Atletico Nacional), Victor Ibarbo (Cagliari), Juan Guillermo Cuadrado (Fiorentina)
Forwards: Jackson Martinez (Porto), Teofilo Gutierrez (River Plate), Carlos Bacca (Sevilla), Adrian Ramos (Borussia Dortmund)
Coach: Jose Pekerman
- Greece
Greece have only ever qualified for the World Cup twice before and will likely struggle. They are capable of surprises though, for instance, winning the 2004 Euro against all odds.
Greece were eliminated in group stages in 2010 FIFA World Cup held in South Africa.
Goalkeepers: Orestis Karnezis (Granada), Panagiotis Glykos (PAOK), Stefanos Kapino (Panathinaikos)
Defenders: Vassilis Torosidis (Roma), Loukas Vyntra (Levante), Sokratis Papastathopoulos (Borussia Dortmund), Costas Manolas (Olympiakos), Vangelis Moras (Hellas Verona), Jose Holebas (Olympiakos), Giorgos Tzavellas (PAOK), Yiannis Maniatis (Olympiakos)
Midfielders: Alexandros Tziolis (Kayserispor), Costas Katsouranis (PAOK), Giorgos Karagounis (Fulham), Andreas Samaris (Olympiakos), Panagiotis Tachtsidis (Torino), Panagiotis Kone (Bologna), Yiannis Fetfatzidis (Genoa), Lazaros Christodoulopoulos (Bologna)
Forwards: Georgios Samaras (Celtic), Kostas Mitroglou (Fulham), Theofanis Gekas (Konyaspor), Dimitris Salpingidis (PAOK)
Coach: Fernando Santos
- Ivory Coast
One of Africa's most dangerous teams this past decade, Ivory Coast still constitute a serious threat. Seasoned striker Dider Drogba captains a team full of talent and experience, including Manchester Citys incredible midfielder Yaya Toure and AS Roma's lightning-fast Gervinho (who will also arguably sport the tournament's most peculiar haircut... again).
Ivory Coast were unable to qualify for the Round of 16 in the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Goalkeepers: Boubacar Barry (Lokeren), Gbohouo Sylvain (Sewe Sport), Sayouba Mandé (Stabaek)
Defenders: Kolo Toure (Liverpool), Souleyman Bamba (Trabzonspor), Jean Daniel Akpa Akpro (Toulouse), Arthur Boka (Stuttgart), Serge Aurier (Toulouse)
Midfielders: Didier Zokora (Trabzonspor), Ousman Vieira (Caykur Rizespor), Cheik Tiote (Newcastle United), Yaya Toure (Manchester City), Romaric (Bastia), Max-Alain Gradel (Saint-Etienne), Ismael Diomande (Saint-Etienne), Didier Ya Konan (Hannover 96), Constant Djakpa (Eintracht Frankfurt), Geoffroy Serey Die (Basel)
Forwards: Wilfried Bony (Swansea City), Didier Drogba (Galatasaray), Gervinho (Roma), Giovanni Sio (Basel), Salomon Kalou (Lille)
Coach: Sabri Lamouchi
- Japan
Japan boast a handful of players capable of producing magic on the field: Manchester Uniteds Shinji Kagawa glides through the midfield, CSKA Moscows Keisuke Honda is a free-kick expert, and Mainz 05 striker Shinji Okazaki scored 15 goals in 33 games in the German Bundesliga.
Japan were eliminated by Paraguay after penalties in the Round of 16 in the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Goalkeepers: Eiji Kawashima (Standard Liege), Shusaku Nishikawa (Sanfrecce Hiroshima), Shuichi Gonda (Tokyo),
Defenders: Masahiko Inoha (Jubilo Iwata), Yasuyuki Konno (Gamba Osaka), Yuto Nagatomo (Inter), Masato Morishige (FC Tokyo), Atsuto Uchida (Schalke 04), Maya Yoshida (Southampton), Hiroki Sakai (Hannover), Gotoku Sakai (Stuttgart)
Midfielders: Yasuhito Endo (Gamba Osaka), Makoto Hasebe (Nurnberg), Toshihiro Aoyama (Sanfrecce Hiroshima), Hotaru Yamaguchi (Cerezo Osaka), Keisuke Honda (AC Milan), Yoshito Okubo (Kawasaki Frontale), Shinji Kagawa (Manchester United), Hiroshi Kiyotake (Nurnberg)
Forwards: Shinji Okazaki (Mainz 05) Yoichiro Kakitani (Cerezo Osaka), Manabu Saito (Yokohama F Marinos), Yuya Osako (1860 Munich)
Coach: Alberto Zaccheroni
Fixture of Group C is as follows:
June 14, Colombia vs Greece at 1600GMT
June 15, Ivory Coast vs Japan at 0100GMT
June 19, Colombia vs Ivory Coast at 1600GMT
June 20, Japan vs Greece at 2200GMT
June 24, Japan vs Colombia at 2000GMT
June 24, Greece vs Ivory Coast at 2000GMT
2014 FIFA World Cup Group D
Uruguay, Italy, England and Costa Rica will compete against each other in Group D which is considered to be this World Cup's "death group" by sports pundits.
- Uruguay
Uruguay offer a blistering attack that includes Liverpools tricky forward Luis Suarez and Paris Saint-Germains tireless Edison Cavani.
In the 2010 FIFA World Cup, semi-finalists Uruguay finshed fouth.
Goalkeepers: Fernando Muslera (Galatasaray), Martin Silva (Vasco Da Gama), Rodrigo Munoz (Libertad)
Defenders: Diego Lugano (West Bromwich Albion), Diego Godin and Jose Maria Gimenez (Atletico Madrid), Martin Caceres (Juventus), Maximiliano Pereira (Benfica), Jorge Fucile (Porto), Sebastian Coates (Nacional)
Midfielders: Egidio Arevalo Rios (Morelia), Walter Gargano (Parma), Diego Perez (Bologna), Alvaro Gonzalez (Lazio), Alvaro Pereira (Sao Paulo), Cristian Rodriguez (Atletico Madrid), Gaston Ramirez (Southampton), Nicolas Lodeiro (Botafogo)
Forwards: Luis Suarez (Liverpool), Edinson Cavani (Paris Saint-Germain), Diego Forlan (Cerezo Osaka), Cristian Stuani (Espanyol), Abel Hernandez (Palermo)
Coach: Oscar Tabarez
- Costa Rica
The weakest team in this deathtrap of a group, Costa Rica will most likely need a miracle to reach the Round of 16. Still, opponents will need be wary of Olympiakos striker Joel Campbell.
Costa Rica did not qualify for 2010 FIFA World Cup held in South Africa.
Goalkeepers: Keylor Navas (Levante), Patrick Pemberton (Alajuelense), Daniel Cambronero (Herediano)
Defenders: Johnny Acosta (Alajuelense), Giancarlo Gonzalez and Waylon Francis (Columbus Crew), Michael Umana, Heiner Mora (Saprissa), Oscar Duarte (Club Brugge), Junior Diaz (Mainz 05), Christian Gamboa (Rosenborg), Roy Miller (New York Red Bulls)
Midfielders: Celso Borges (AIK), Christian Bolanos (Kopenhag), Esteban Granados, Jose Miguel Cubero (Herediano), Michael Barrantes (Aalesunds), Yeltsin Tejeda (Saprissa), Diego Calvo (Valerenga)
Forwards: Bryan Ruiz (PSV Eindhoven), Joel Campbell (Olympiakos), Randall Brenes (Cartagines), Marco Urena (Kuban Krasnodar)
Coach: Jorge Luis Pinto
- England
According to pundits, Uruguay and Italy are the favorites to quality from the group but England hope their combination of experience and youthful exuberance will be the key to create a mini-upset. Established stars Steven Gerrard, Wayne Rooney and Frank Lampard will be present but manager Roy Hodgson counts on the additions of Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge and Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere to step up to the international level.
In 2010 FIFA World Cup, which was organized in South Africa, England upset their fans by getting beaten 4-1 by their rivals Germany in the Round of 16.
Goalkeepers: Joe Hart (Manchester City), Ben Foster (West Bromwich Albion), Fraser Forster (Celtic)
Defenders: Leighton Baines (Everton), Gary Cahill (Chelsea), Phil Jagielka (Everton), Glen Johnson (Liverpool), Phil Jones (Manchester United), Luke Shaw (Southampton), Chris Smalling (Manchester United)
Midfielders: Steven Gerrard (Liverpool), Jordan Henderson (Liverpool), Adam Lallana (Southampton), Frank Lampard (Chelsea), James Milner (Manchester City), Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (Arsenal), Raheem Sterling (Liverpool), Jack Wilshere (Arsenal), Ross Barkley (Everton)
Forwards: Rickie Lambert (Southampton), Wayne Rooney (Manchester United), Daniel Sturridge (Liverpool), Daniel Welbeck (Manchester United)
Coach: Roy Hodgson
- Italy
Italy will hope to reproduce the team chemistry that saw them reach the finals at the 2012 Euro. Experienced figures like goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon and midfield general Andrea Pirlo will provide Italy with experience, while the likes of AC Milan striker Mario Balotelli may be the one able to provide the touch of unpredictability that is needed to win these types of tournaments.
In the last World Cup tournament held in South Africa in 2010, Italy were eliminated in group stages.
Goalkeepers: Gianluigi Buffon (Juventus), Mattia Perin (Genoa), Salvatore Sirigu (Paris Saint-Germain)
Defenders: Ignazio Abate (AC Milan), Andrea Barzagli (Juventus), Leonardo Bonucci (Juventus), Giorgio Chiellini (Juventus), Matteo Darmian (Torino), Mattia De Sciglio (AC Milan), Gabriel Paletta (Parma)
Midfielders: Alberto Aquilani (Fiorentina), Antonio Candreva (Lazio), Daniele De Rossi (Roma), Claudio Marchisio (Juventus), Thiago Motta (Paris Saint-Germain), Marco Parolo (Parma), Andrea Pirlo (Juventus), Marco Verratti (Paris Saint-Germain)
Forwards: Mario Balotelli (AC Milan), Antonio Cassano (Parma), Alessio Cerci (Torino), Ciro Immobile (Borussia Dortmund), Lorenzo Insigne (Napoli)
Coach: Cesare Prandelli
Fixture of Group D is as follows:
June 14, Uruguay vs Costa Rica at 1900GMT
June 14, England vs Italy at 2200GMT
June 19, Uruguay vs England at 1900GMT
June 20, Italy vs Costa Rica at 1600GMT
June 24, Italy vs Uruguay at 1600GMT
June 24, Costa Rica vs England at 1600GMT
2014 FIFA World Cup Group E
Switzerland, Ecuador, France and Honduras constitute Group E of 2014 FIFA World Cup, considered the weakest by sports pundits.
- Switzerland
Switzerland are best known for their frugal defense and timid offense. Still, some players such as the exciting Bayern Munich winger, Xherdan Shaqiri, and Eintracht Frankfurts free-kick expert, Tranquillo Barnetta are worth the detour.
In the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Switzerland were eliminated in group stages.
Goalkeepers: Diego Benaglio (Wolfsburg), Yann Sommer (Basel), Roman Buerki (Grasshoppers)
Defenders: Stephan Lichtsteiner (Juventus), Reto Ziegler (Sassuolo), Michael Lang (Grasshoppers), Steve von Bergen (Young Boys), Philippe Senderos (Valencia), Johan Djourou (Hamburg), Ricardo Rodriguez (Wolfsburg), Fabian Schaer (Basel)
Midfielders: Gokhan Inler (Napoli), Valentin Stocker (Basel), Tranquillo Barnetta (Schalke 04), Granit Xhaka (Borussia Monchengladbach), Valon Behrami (Napoli), Blerim Dzemaili (Napoli), Gelson Fernandes (Freiburg), Xherdan Shaqiri (Bayern Munich)
Forwards: Haris Seferovic (Real Sociedad), Josip Drmic (Bayer Leverkusen), Admir Mehmedi (Freiburg), Mario Gavranovic (Zurich)
Coach: Ottmar Hitzfeld
- Ecuador
Manchester Uniteds explosive winger Antonio Valencia will hope to drive his team to success and they might just have an outside chance if France or Switzerland slip up.
Ecuador lastly qualified for the 2006 FIFA World Cup where they reached the Round of 16.
Goalkeepers: Maximo Banguera (Barcelona-Ecuador), Adrian Bone (El Nacional), Alexander Dominguez (Liga de Quito)
Defenders: Gabriel Achilier (Emelec), Walter Ayovi (Pachuca), Oscar Bagui (Emelec), Frickson Erazo (Flamengo), Jorge Guagua (Emelec), Juan Carlos Paredes (Barcelona-Ecuador)
Midfielders: Segundo Castillo (Al Hilal), Carlos Gruezo (Stuttgart), Renato Ibarra (Vitesse Arnhem), Fidel Martinez (Tijuana), Edison Mendez (Santa Fe), Christian Noboa (Dinamo Moscow), Luis Saritama (Liga de Quito), Antonio Valencia (Manchester United)
Forwards: Jaime Ayovi (Tijuana), Felipe Caicedo (Al Jazira), Jefferson Montero (Morelia), Joao Rojas (Cruz Azul), Enner Valencia (Pachuca), Michael Arroyo (Atlante)
Coach: Reinaldo Rueda
- France
Didier Deschamps captained France to a World Cup victory in 1998. Now, 16 years later, he hopes to guide them to another win -- as the manager. Undeterred by Franck Ribery's forfeit due to injury, Deschamps has tried to build a solid team unit that includes a host of talent, including Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema and Juventus enthusiastic midfielder Paul Pogba.
'Les Bleus' failed to qualify for the knock-out stage in the 2010 FIFA World Cup and are better remembered for their infamous strike, refusing to get out of the bus for practice, to protest striker Nicolas Anelka's eviction from the team. He had insulted the coach during a halftime break.
Goalkeepers: Hugo Lloris (Tottenham Hotspur), Stephane Ruffier (Saint-Etienne), Mickael Landreau (Bastia)
Defenders: Mathieu Debuchy (Newcastle United), Lucas Digne (Paris Saint-Germain), Patrice Evra (Manchester United), Laurent Koscielny (Arsenal), Eliaquim Mangala (Porto), Bacary Sagna (Arsenal), Mamadou Sakho (Liverpool), Raphael Varane (Real Madrid)
Midfielders: Yohan Cabaye (Paris Saint-Germain), Blaise Matuidi (Paris Saint-Germain), Rio Mavuba (Lille), Paul Pogba (Juventus), Moussa Sissoko (Newcastle United), Mathieu Valbuena (Olympique de Marseille), Morgan Schneiderlin (Southampton)
Forwards: Karim Benzema (Real Madrid), Olivier Giroud (Arsenal), Antoine Griezmann (Real Sociedad), Loic Remy (Newcastle United), Remy Cabella (Montpellier)
Coach: Didier Deschamps
- Honduras
Honduras do not have a distinguished World Cup record, appearing only twice before. They stand little chance to qualify for the next round.
In the 2010 FIFA World Cup Honduras were eliminated in group stages.
Goalkeepers: Noel Valladares and Donis Escober (Olimpia), Luis Lopez (Real Espana)
Defenders: Victor Bernardez (San Jose Earthquakes), Osman Chavez (Qingdao Janoon), Juan Pablo Montes (Motagua), Brayan Beckeles (Olimpia), Juan Carlos Garcia (Wigan), Maynor Figueroa (Hull)
Midfielders: Emilio Izaguirre (Celtic), Edder Delgado (Real Espana), Luis Garrido (Olimpia), Roger Espinoza (Wigan), Jorge Claros (Motagua), Wilson Palacios (Stoke City), Oscar Garcia (Houston Dynamo), Andy Najar (Anderlecht), Mario Martinez (Real Espana), Marvin Chavez (Colorado Rapids), Jerry Palacios (Alajuelense)
Forwards: Carlo Costly (Real Espana), Rony Martinez (Real Sociedad), Jerry Bengtson (New England Revolution)
Coach: Luis Fernando Suarez
Fixture of Group E is as follows:
June 15, Switzerland vs Ecuador at 1600GMT
June 15, France vs Honduras at 1900GMT
June 20, Switzerland vs France at 1900GMT
June 20, Honduras vs Ecuador at 2200GMT
June 25, Honduras vs Switzerland at 2000GMT
June 25, Ecuador vs France at 2000GMT
2014 FIFA World Cup Group F
Argentina, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iran and Nigeria will all face off in one of the World Cup's most eclectic, and possibly most interesting, groups
- Argentina
Brazil's archrivals are one of the odds-on favorites to win the tournament this year. Real Madrids Angel di Maria, Manchester Citys determined striker Sergio Aguero and, of course, Barcelonas leading star Lionel Messi are just some of the stars that constitute the talented squad.
Argentina were eliminated by Germany with a 4-0 score in quarter final phase in 2010 FIFA World Cup held in South Africa.
Argentina's squad for World Cup is as follows:
Goalkeepers: Sergio Romero (Monaco), Mariano Andujar (Catania), Agustin Orion (Boca Juniors)
Defenders: Ezequiel Garay (Benfica), Federico Fernandez (Napoli), Pablo Zabaleta (Manchester City), Marcos Rojo (Sporting Lisbon), Jose-Maria Basanta (Monterrey), Hugo Campagnaro (Inter), Martin Demichelis (Manchester City)
Midfielders: Fernando Gago (Boca Juniors), Lucas Biglia (Lazio), Javier Mascherano (Barcelona), Angel Di Maria (Real Madrid), Maxi Rodriguez (Newell's Old Boys), Ricardo Alvarez (Inter), Augusto Fernandez (Celta Vigo), Enzo Perez (Benfica)
Forwards: Sergio Aguero (Manchester City), Lionel Messi (Barcelona), Gonzalo Higuain (Napoli), Ezequiel Lavezzi (Paris Saint Germain), Rodrigo Palacio (Inter)
Coach: Alejandro Sabella
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
This is the first time Bosnia and Herzegovina qualify for a World Cup tournament in their history.
With their attack led by Manchester City striker Edin Dzeko, Bosnia and Herzegovina will present a tough physical game to any opponent.
Bosnia and Herzegovina's squad for 2014 FIFA World Cup is as follows:
Goalkeepers: Asmir Begovic (Stoke City), Jasmin Fejzic (Aalen), Asmir Avdukic (Borac Banja Luka)
Defenders: Emir Spahic (Bayer Leverkusen), Toni Sunjic (Zorya Luhansk), Sead Kolasinac (Schalke 04), Ognjen Vranjes (Elazigspor), Ermin Bicakcic (Eintracht Braunschweig), Muhamed Besic (Ferencvaros), Mensur Mujdza (Freiburg)
Midfielders: Miralem Pjanic (Roma), Izet Hajrovic (Galatasaray), Haris Medunjanin (Gaziantepspor), Senad Lulic (Lazio), Anel Hadzic (Sturm Graz), Tino-Sven Susic (Hajduk Split), Sejad Salihovic (Hoffenheim), Zvjezdan Misimovic (Guizhou Renhe), Senijad Ibricic (Kayseri Erciyespor), Avdija Vrsajevic (Hajduk Split)
Forwards: Vedad Ibisevic (Stuttgart), Edin Dzeko (Manchester City), Edin Visca (Istanbul Buyuksehir Belediyesi)
Coach: Safet Susic
- Iran
Former Portugal and Real Madrid coach Carlos Queiroz successfully guided Iran through qualifications but his team is somewhat of a question mark.
Iran did not qualify for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Goalkeepers: Daniel Davari (Eintracht Braunschweig), Rahman Ahmadi (Sepahan Isfahan), Alireza Haqiqi (Sporting da Covilha)
Defenders: Hossein Mahini (Persepolis), Jalal Hosseini (Persepolis), Amir Hossein Sadeqi (Esteghlal), Mehrdad Pouladi (Persepolis), Ahmad Alenemeh (Naft Tehran), Pejman Montazeri (Umm Salal), Steven Beitashour (Vancouver Whitecaps)
Midfielders: Hashem Beykzadeh (Esteghlal), Reza Haghighi (Persepolis), Andranik Teymourian (Esteghlal), Ghasem Hadadifar (Zob Ahan Isfahan), Javad Nekounam (Kuwait), Ehsan Haji safi (Sepahan Isfahan), Bakhtiar Rahmani (Foolad)
Forwards: Khosrow Heidari (Esteghlal), Karim Ansarifard (Tractor Sazi), Reza Ghoochannejhad (Charlton Athletic), Alireza Jahanbakhsh (NEC), Masoud Shojaei (Las Palmas), Ashkan Dejagah (Fulham)
Coach: Carlos Queiroz
- Nigeria
Nigeria are the current holders of the African Cup of Nations. They performed strongly in last years Confederations Cup and will be optimistic under the guidance of ruthless, but successful, manager Stephen Keshi.
In the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Nigeria were eliminated in group stages.
Goalkeepers: Vincent Enyeama (Lille), Chigozie Agbim (Gombe United), Austin Ejide (Hapoel Be'er Sheva)
Defenders: Elderson Echiejile (Monaco), Efe Ambrose (Celtic), Godfrey Oboabona (Caykur Rizespor), Azubuike Egwuekwe (Warri Wolves), Kenneth Omeruo (Middlesbrough), Juwon Oshaniwa (Ashdod), Joseph Yobo (Norwich City), Kunle Odunlami (Sunshine Stars)
Midfielders: John Mikel Obi (Chelsea), Ogenyi Onazi (Lazio), Gabriel Reuben (Beveren), Michael Uchebo (Cercle Brugge), Ramon Azeez (Almeria)
Forwards: Ahmed Musa (CSKA Moscow), Shola Ameobi (Newcastle United), Victor Moses (Chelsea), Emmanuel Emenike (Fenerbahce), Peter Odemwingie, (Stoke City), Uche Nwofor (Heerenveen), Babatunde Michael (Volyn)
Coach: Stephen Keshi
Fixture of Group F is as follows:
June 15, Argentina vs Bosnia and Herzegovina at 2200GMT
June 16, Iran vs Nigeria at 1900GMT
June 21, Argentina vs Iran at 1600GMT
June 21, Nigeria vs Bosnia and Herzegovina at 2200GMT
June 25, Nigeria vs Argentina at 1600GMT
June 25, Bosnia and Herzegovina vs Iran at 1600GMT
2014 FIFA World Cup Group G
Group G of the 2014 FIFA World Cup can be considered as the second "death group." because, while Germany stands as the favorite among the four teams, Portugal, USA and Ghana make for a homogenous set of challengers.
- Germany
Germany were almost invincible during qualification and with a raft of stars they are regarded as one of the favorites to win the tournament. They will however be missing some important regulars like Bayer Leverkusens Lars Bender and Borussia Dortmunds Ilkay Gundogan. But, Bayern Munich's Mario Gotze and Arsenal's Mesut Ozil are nothing to sneer at.
In the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Germany were knocked out of the tournament by champions Spain in the semifinals.
Goalkeepers: Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich), Roman Weidenfeller (Borussia Dortmund), Ron-Robert Zieler (Hannover 96)
Defenders: Jerome Boateng (Bayern Munich), Philipp Lahm (Bayern Munich), Erik Durm (Borussia Dortmund), Mats Hummels (Borussia Dortmund), Kevin Grosskreutz (Borussia Dortmund), Benedikt Höwedes (Schalke 04), Per Mertesacker (Arsenal)
Midfielders: Matthias Ginter (Freiburg), Cristoph Kramer (Borussia Monchengladbach), Julian Draxler (Schalke 04), Mario Gotze (Bayern Munich), Sami Khedira (Real Madrid), Toni Kroos (Bayern Munich), Thomas Muller (Bayern Munich), Mesut Ozil (Arsenal), Shkodran Mustafi (UC Sampdoria), Andre Schurrle (Chelsea), Lukas Podolski (Arsenal), Bastian Schweinsteiger (Bayern Munich)
Forward: Miroslav Klose (Lazio)
Coach: Joachim Löw
- Portugal
Managed by former international Paulo Bento, Portugal hope that Cristiano Ronaldo can lead them to glory. He will be accompanied by a strong defense and a creative midfield, including Monacos Joao Moutinho and Fenerbahces Raul Meireles.
In the last World Cup in 2010, Portugal were eliminated by the champions, Spain, in the Round of 16.
Goalkeepers: Rui Patricio (Sporting Lisbon), Beto (Sevilla), Eduardo (Braga)
Defenders: Andre Almeida (Benfica), Bruno Alves (Fenerbahce), Fabio Coentrao (Real Madrid), Joao Pereira (Valencia), Neto (Zenit), Pepe (Real Madrid), Ricardo Costa (Valencia)
Midfielders: Joao Moutinho (Monaco), Miguel Veloso (Dinamo Kiev), Raul Meireles (Fenerbahce), Ruben Amorim (Benfica), William Carvalho (Sporting Lisbon)
Forwards: Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid), Eder (Braga), Helder Postiga (Lazio), Hugo Almeida (Besiktas), Nani (Manchester United), Rafa (Braga), Varela (Porto), Vieirinha (Wolfsburg)
Coach: Paulo Bento
- Ghana
This is the Ghana's third World Cup appearance. Their play is well-disciplined and they will rely on established players like striker Asamoah Gyan, and AC Milan midfielder Sulley Muntari.
In the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Ghana managed to reach quarterfinals only to be ousted by Uruguay.
Goalkeepers: Fatau Dauda (Orlando Pirates), Adam Kwarasey (Stromsgodset), Stephen Adams (Aduana Stars)
Defenders: Samuel Inkoom (Platanias), Daniel Opare (Standard Liege), Harrison Afful (Esperance), John Boye (Rennes), Jonathan Mensah (Evian), Rashid Sumalia (Mamelodi Sundowns)
Midfielders: Michael Essien (AC Milan), Sulley Muntari (AC Milan), Rabiu Mohammed (Kuban Krasnodar), Kwadwo Asamoah (Juventus), Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu (Udinese), Afriyie Acquah (Parma), Christian Atsu (Vitesse), Albert Adomah (Middlesbrough), Andre Ayew (Olympique de Marseille), Mubarak Wakaso (Rubin Kazan)
Forwards: Asamoah Gyan (Al Ain), Kevin-Prince Boateng (Schalke 04), Abdul Majeed Waris (Valenciennes), Jordan Ayew (Sochaux)
Coach: Kwesi Appiah
- USA
The U.S. national team, managed by German legend Jurgen Klinsmann, is in a tough group but its industrious and athletic players might be able to force them through.
In the 2010 FIFA World Cup, USA was eliminated by Ghana in overtime in the Round of 16.
Goalkeeper: Brad Guzan (Aston Villa), Tim Howard (Everton), Nick Rimando (Real Salt Lake)
Defenders: DaMarcus Beasley (Puebla), Matt Besler (Sporting Kansas City), John Brooks (Hertha Berlin), Geoff Cameron (Stoke City), Timmy Chandler (Nurnberg), Omar Gonzalez (Los Angeles Galaxy), Fabian Johnson (Borussia Monchengladbach), DeAndre Yedlin (Seattle Sounders)
Midfielders: Kyle Beckerman (Real Salt Lake), Alejandro Bedoya (Nantes), Michael Bradley (Toronto), Brad Davis (Houston Dynamo), Mix Diskerud (Rosenborg), Julian Green (Bayern Munich), Jermaine Jones (Besiktas), Graham Zusi (Sporting Kansas City)
Forwards: Jozy Altidore (Sunderland), Clint Dempsey (Seattle Sounders), Aron Johannsson (AZ Alkmaar), Chris Wondolowski (San Jose Earthquakes)
Coach: Jurgen Klinsmann
Fixture of Group G is as follows:
June 16, Germany vs Portugal at 1600GMT
June 16, Ghana vs USA 2200GMT
June 21, Germany vs Ghana at 1900GMT
June 22, USA vs Portugal at 2200GMT
June 26, USA vs Germany at 1600GMT
June 26, Portugal vs Ghana at 1600GMT
2014 FIFA World Cup Group H
Two European teams Belgium and Russia, an Asian team, South Korea, and Algeria from Africa make up one of the most intriguing and anticipated groups of the World Cup.
- Belgium
The Red Devils are back! Belgium have drawn a lot of attention with a group of young stars including goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, Chelsea winger Eden Hazard and Manchester United wonderkid Adnan Januzaj. They had no problems qualifying for the World Cup and the football world will keep an eye on their performance.
Belgium missed the 2006 and 2010 FIFA World Cups.
Goalkeepers: Thibaut Courtois (Chelsea), Simon Mignolet (Liverpool), Sammy Bossut (Zulte-Waregem)
Defenders: Toby Alderweireld (Atletico Madrid), Anthony Vanden Borre (Anderlecht), Daniel Van Buyten (Bayern Münih), Vincent Kompany (Manchester City), Jan Vertonghen (Tottenham Hotspur), Thomas Vermaelen (Arsenal), Nicolas Lombaerts (Zenit Saint Petersburg), Laurent Ciman (Standard Liege)
Midfielders: Axel Witsel (Zenit Saint Petersburg), Marouane Fellaini (Manchester United), Steven Defour (Porto), Moussa Dembele, Nacer Chadli (Tottenham Hotspur), Kevin De Bruyne (Wolfsburg)
Forwards: Romelu Lukaku (Chelsea), Divock Origi (Lille), Eden Hazard (Chelsea), Kevin Mirallas (Everton), Dries Mertens (Napoli), Adnan Januzaj (Manchester United)
Coach: Marc Wilmots
- Algeria
Coached by Paris Saint-Germains former manager - and notorious disciplinarian - Vahid Halilhodzic, the North African team has enough talent to cause an upset... or two.
Having qualified for the World Cup tournaments three times so far, Algeria were eliminated in group stages in 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Goalkeepers: Mohamed Lamine Zemmamouche (USM Alger), Rais Mbolhi (CSKA Sofia), Cedric Si Mohamed (CS Constantine)
Defenders: Carl Medjani (Valenciennes), Aissa Mandi (Reims), Madjid Bougherra (Lekhwiya), Faouzi Ghoulam (Napoli), Rafik Halliche (Academica), Essaid Belkalem (Watford), Liassine Cadamuro (Mallorca), Djamel Mesbah (Livorno), Mehdi Mostefa (Ajaccio)
Midfielders: Sofiane Feghouli (Valencia), Saphir Taider (Inter), Medhi Lacen (Getafe), Abdelmoumen Djabou (Club Africain), Yacine Brahimi (Granada), Nabil Bentaleb (Tottenham Hotspur), Hassan Yebda (Udinese), Riyad Mahrez (Leicester)
Forwards: Islam Slimani (Sporting Lisbon), Hilal Soudani (Dinamo Zagreb), Nabil Ghilas (Porto)
Coach: Vahid Halilhodzic
- Russia
Russia have not played in the World Cup since 2002, when they were eliminated in the group stages. But led by Italian coach Fabio Capello, they will hope for better this time around.
Goalkeepers: Igor Akinfeev (CSKA Moscow), Yury Lodygin (Zenit), Sergei Ryzhikov (Rubin Kazan)
Defenders: Vasily Berezutsky, Sergei Ignashevich, Georgy Shchennikov (CSKA Moscow), Vladimir Granat, Alexei Kozlov (Dinamo Moscow), Andrei Yeshchenko (Anzhi), Dmitry Kombarov (Spartak Moscow), Andrei Semenov (Terek Grozny)
Midfielders: Igor Denisov, Yury Zhirkov (Dinamo Moscow), Alan Dzagoev (CSKA Moscow), Pavel Mogilevets (Zenit Saint Petersburg), Denis Glushakov (Spartak Moscow), Viktor Faizulin, Oleg Shatov (Zenit)
Forwards: Alexander Kerzhakov (Zenit Saint Petersburg), Alexei Ionov, Alexander Kokorin (Dinamo Moscow), Maxim Kanunnikov (Amkar), Alexander Samedov (Lokomotiv Moscow)
Coach: Fabio Capello
- South Korea
South Korea will be competing in a World Cup tournament for the 9th time. They have always proved competitive in recent tournaments and that is not expected to change this year.
South Korea squad is as follows:
Goalkeepers: Jung Sung-ryong (Suwon Bluewings), Kim Seung-gyu (Ulsan Hyundai), Lee Bum-young (Busan IPark)
Defenders: Kim Jin-soo (Albirex Niigata), Yun Suk-young (Queens Park Rangers), Kim Young-gwon (Guangzhou Evergrande), Hwang Seok-ho (Sanfrecce Hiroshima), Hong Jeong-ho (Augsburg), Kwak Tae-hwi (Al-Hilal), Lee Yong (Ulsan Hyundai), Kim Chang-soo (Kashiwa Reysol)
Midfielders: Ki Sung-yueng (Sunderland), Ha Dae-sung (Beijing Guoan), Han Kook-young (Kashiwa Reysol), Park Jong-woo (Guangzhou R&F), Son Heung-min (Bayer Leverkusen), Kim Bo-kyung (Cardiff City), Lee Chung-yong (Bolton Wanderers), Ji Dong-won (Augusburg)
Forwards: Koo Ja-cheol (Mainz 05), Lee Keun-ho (Sangju Sangmu), Park Chu-young (Watford), Kim Shin-wook (Ulsan Hyundai)
Coach: Hong Myung-bo
Fixture of Group H is as follows:
June 17, Belgium vs Algeria at 1600GMT
June 17, Russia vs South Korea at 2200GMT
June 22, Belgium vs Russia at 1600GMT
June 22, South Korea vs Algeria at 1900GMT
June 26, South Korea vs Belgium at 2000GMT
June 26, Algeria vs Russia at 2000GMT
