Without a shadow of a doubt, Group B is poised to be packed with thrilling matches considering the quality of the teams included. Both Spain and Netherlands are set to battle it out to finish first in the group, yet we have to consider the talent that both Australia and Chile possess, and perhaps one of the pair will be able to stage a shock and progress into the latter stages of the World Cup.



Spain: Vincent Del Bosque aims to be the first manager to lead a country to successive world cup successes and if he manages to do so he will be dubbed as the one of the greatest managers this generation has witnessed. Spain enter the World Cup as the dominant nation in football, having already won the World Cup and the Euro’s. This success has been maintained by Real Madrid and Sevilla this season, as both clubs have won the Champions League and the Europa League respectively. Nobody can doubt the superb talent that the midfield have. Bosque is truly spoilt for choice in the centre of the park as his side consists the likes of Xavi, Andres Iniesta, Sergio Busquets, Cesc Fabregas, Xabi Alonso, Juan Mata, David Silva and Santi Cazorla.

Player to watch: After a wonderful campaign with the La Liga champions, Diego Costa looks set to shine at this year’s World Cup. Yet his decision to represent Spain was extremely controversial having already been capped twice by his native Brazil. I strongly believe that Costa will shine, this summer and will play a significant role in Spain’s attack. The Atletico forward has had a glittering campaign scoring an remarkable tally of 36 goals, which shows that Costa has the potential to have a crucial impact for Spain.

Where will Spain finish in Group B?: 1st

The Netherlands: Louis Van Gaal’s side will be hoping to emulate the success they achieved in 2010, reaching the final of the most prestigious competition in world football. It is clear that Holland’s attacking force is one of their mains strengths, as the experienced trio of Arjen Robben, Robin Van Persie and Wesley Snjider will be hoping to lead Holland torwards victory. Despite Van Gaal being blessed with players renowned for their attacking ability, it is no secret that it is Holland’s defence is the weak point in the team.

Player to watch: After a season fraught with injuries I’m sure that Manchester United striker Robin Van Persie will be determined to make a positive impact this World Cup. Regardless of his absence from the United side he has managed an impressive tally of 24 goals for club and country this campaign. The former Arsenal forward has 82 Capps to his name scoring 42 goals, a statistic that will surely fill him with pride and motivation as he strives it succeed in Brazil.

Where will Holland finish in Group B?: 2nd

Chile: New Chile manager Jorge Sampaoli will hope that he can guide Chile to the quarter finals of the World Cup for only their second time in their history. His squad consists of many accomplished players such as Arturo Vidal, Alexis Sanchez, Mauricio Isla and so on. In 2010 La Roja managed to reach the last 16 phase of the tournament only to be eliminated by this year’s hosts Brazil. Many would dub Chile as Group B’s dark horse to qualify.

Player to watch: Despite the obvious polished attributes that Barca forward Alexsis Sanchez is endowed with, I believe that Arturo Vidal is the individual to watch from Chile’s team. The Juventus midfielder has been subject to a whole host of speculation following a tremendous season. Vidal has scored a terrific total of 18 goals in all competitions this season, managing 6 assists and I’m positively certain that Vidal has the ability to replicate his club form against the likes of Spain and the Netherlands.

Where will Chile finish in Group B?: 3rd

Australia: Australia face a daunting challenge this World Cup after being handed the monumental task to overcome the talent of Spain, Holland and Chile. Ange Postecoglou squad does contain recognisable players for the fans of the Barclays Premier League, as one current BPL player and one former BPL player are included in the squad ( Mile Jedinak and Tim Cahill). Personally I feel that the sheer difficulty of the task that lays ahead will lead the Socceroos to an inevitable fate, and that is to finish bottom of group B.

Player to watch: Mile Jedinak has certainly reached the peak of his footballing career and this is reflected by the fact that he has won Australia’s player of the year award. It is clear that Ange Postecoglou will be expecting the Palace skipper to play a crucial role operating in the centre of midfield. Alternatively Jedinak offers versatility as he can also play in defence.

Where will Australia finish in Group B?: 4th

@carbislli