Brazil/Croatia 
My Pick: Brazil
The one name synonymous with the World Cup is that of of the South American giants Brazil. Having taken the coveted trophy home no less than five times, they are the overwhelming favourites going into this year's competition. The Samba boys are renowned for their delectable touches, surging runs and their dribbling finesse but their ageing defence is once again a cause for concern. The Brazilians aim to win their sixth World Cup in Germany, their first in Europe after Sweden 1958, but Croatia will have plans of their own too.
Brazil
The squad has it all, from pacy fullbacks to clinical finishers, from young prodigies to experienced warhorses, from angels to demi-gods, this Brazilian squad is
every coach's dream. With the likes of Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, Juninho, Roberto Carlos, Cafu, in the team, there is no dearth of starpower. The defense though is a bit
suspect and many teams would like to test the Brazilians in the first few minutes.
Injuries/Suspensions: Ronaldo has had an indifferent week going into the World Cup. Blisters on his feet, slight fever, he has suffered all but is sure to start the first game. All in all, a fit squad raring to go.
Goalscorers: Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, Robinho, Kaka, Juninho, Roberto Carlos, Ze Roberto, Adriano - Need i say more?
Croatia edged out Sweden to qualify on top of their group and they would be looking to edge out Brazil in their first Group F encounter. Managed by the charismatic, Zlatko Kranjcar, the Croats look ready to upset the Brazilian applecart.
Croatia
The average age of the squad has been drastically reduced with Milan Rapaic and Ivica Mornar being given the cold shoulder. But Zlatko still has the experience of
the Kovac brothers, Igor Tudor and Dario Simic. The Croats have two of the finest young goalkeepers in Germany in Stipe Pletikosa and Tomislav Butina. Premiership
reject Bosko Balaban, Rangers' hitman Dado Prso and the evergreen Ivica Olic will lead the line for an attacking Croat team with Niko Kranjcar playing in midfield
behind them. Bremen stiker Ivan Klasnic would be the man to watch out for. His clinical finishing skills would be of utmost importance if Croatia have to nick a
goal or two against the mighty Brazilians.
Injuries/Suspensions: Croatia's football squad have been stricken by a mysterious virus since their arrival last week at their base in Bad Bruckenau..Doctors could not determine the cause of the infection which had stricken most of the squad - Darijo Simic, Ivica Olic, Bosko Balaban, Dado Prso, Stjepan Tomas.Ivica Olic though has completely recoverd from a thigh strain and is raring to go.
Goalscorers: The onus will be on Olic, Prso, Klasnic, Balaban, Seric and Kranjcar to get that all important goal for Croatia.
My verdict:
This is a real toughie to call. Brazil have everything in their favour but the Croats are no mugs- a well-established team with players playing for top
European clubs. The Brazilian flair, coupled with their mesmerising skills will be enough , one feels, to see off the Croats. But discount the Croats at your own peril.
I am sitting on the fence for this one---albeit with both my legs in the Brazilian territory.
