Summary: Joining Anto for this last look at the contenders, pretenders and some very interesting national teams who could spoil the party as the matches are set to begin on Thursday, featuring international broadcaster Tim Caple with a deeper look at the favorites and not-so favorites, then we follow up with Kristopher Karlsson on some of the smaller factors which could shape this tournament. In part one, Tim Caple helps us gauge the German threat after losing Marco Reus to consider whether the same shortcomings still exist in the aftermath of Euro 2012, and if Jogi Löw must deliver his team past the semi-finals given expectations. We also examine the dual threat in Group E where the loss of Franck Ribery could alter the group in favor of a Swiss side led by Ottmar Hitzfeld who takes a youthful yet experienced blend of surprising talent into Brazil. We also examine the fortunes for Italy, Argentina, Spain and, of course, the United States and it always arrives with a touch of irony and comedic references in the matter of England who will hope to capitalize on the land of near-zero expectations. In part two Swedish sports journalist Kristopher Karlsson weighs in on some of the more esoteric elements of this World Cup and that begins in the Balkans with Bosnia and Croatia who are clearly headed in different directions if their pre-tournament form holds true. We also evaluate the threat that Russia presents competition favorites Belgium as well as pick out a couple of serious threats who may not win the World Cup, but could easily alter the balance in the Group Stage.
