#3 Germany
"Football is a simple game. 22 men chase a ball for 90 minutes and at the end, the Germans always win." - Gary Lineker
Time and time again, the Germans have proven this statement right. They breed talented football players and have an unbelievable drive to win.
The Germans may not be the most talented players on the pitch but they are so strong as a team. Their collective heart, as well as their effort, helps them overcome any opposition they face.
Having won their fourth World Cup in 2014, Germany are now just one behind the all-time leaders Brazil and you can be sure that Joachim Loew's men will be keen on repeating their feat from four years ago.
Die Mannschaft are known to be relentless. They play attacking and enjoyable football. A Germany game is nearly always certain to have goals.
The squad selected by Loew seems stronger than the team that lifted the cup in Rio. Marco Reus, who missed out last time due to injury is fit for this year's competition and will be raring to go and help his nation retain the World Cup.
Germany also have Thomas Mueller who won the Golden Boot in the 2010 FIFA World Cup and followed it up with an impressive showing in 2014 as well, finishing with 5 goals, just 1 shy of Golden Boot winner James Rodriguez.
The defending champions are in Group F which features Mexico, South Korea, and Sweden. You would expect Die Mannschaft to win all three games and top the group.
Germany and France look like the most balanced sides going to Russia. Loew can even field a second eleven that would be stronger than a lot of the teams that will feature this World Cup. Such is the strength of the mighty Germans.
You would not want to bet against Die Mannschaft retaining their World Cup crown.