England 2014 World Cup home and away kits © Nike/Football Association
Football fans on Merseyside and around the world are waiting in a state of high excitement as Brazil prepare to kick off the 2014 FIFA World Cup™ against Croatia on Thursday.
Liverpool and Everton stars – plus a certain Scouser named Wayne Rooney – are aiming to inspire England to glory, but Reds striker Luis Suarez may be the man who can stop them if he wins his fitness race.
Suarez is desperate to be available to take on England for Uruguay in the group phase on June 19th, but a knee injury that he picked up in the last game of the season at Anfield eventually required an operation, and his participation hangs in the balance.
Liverpool team-mates, Steven Gerrard, Daniel Sturridge, Jordan Henderson, Raheem Sterling and Glen Johnson know only too well what Suarez is capable of and would no doubt be relieved to see him not starting their second World Cup fixture, after England open their Group D campaign against Italy in Manaus on June 14th.
Expectations are realistically low for the Three Lions, although England boss Roy Hodgson, who was busy settling into his short spell as Liverpool manager during the last World Cup in South Africa four years ago, selected five Reds players when he named his 23-man squad.
That total has since risen as Rickie Lambert has agreed a £4.5m move to Anfield from Southampton, while Adam Lallana may join him there if the Saints accept an improved £25m offer by the Premier League runners-up.
126 – Brazil
58 – Germany
49 – Spain
32 – England
19 – Belgium
17 – Argentina
15 – Uruguay
7 – Italy
4 – Chile; Portugal
2 – France; Netherlands
1 – Algeria; Colombia; Costa Rica; Ghana; Ivory Coast; Mexico; Nigeria
JMU Journalism street poll of 342 people in Liverpool – asked who will win the World Cup – on April 4th 2014.
All eyes will be on Everton’s young talent Ross Barkley – one of five Liverpool-born England squad members – who is accompanied to the finals by Goodison colleagues Leighton Baines and Phil Jagielka, as Merseyside’s presence is felt throughout the England set-up and other international sides.
Meanwhile, an exclusive JMU Journalism poll has revealed that in a survey of 342 people in Liverpool, hosts Brazil emerged as the clear favourite of who is tipped to win the World Cup. The Brazilians topped the standings as they earned more than a third of the votes cast, but England were chosen by less than 10% of the public and finished fourth.
A combination of class, climate, home advantage and the nation’s outstanding tournament pedigree led 126 (37%) of our street pundits to back Brazil to win a sixth World Cup title in front of their own fans in Rio in the final on July 13th.
Billy Boyle of Dingle spoke for many when the 58-year-old said: “I think Brazil will win because they’re used to the South American weather. They’re acclimatised to those conditions and they’re a top team.”
Their last World Cup victory came in 2002 when they forced Germany into second place. The same result occurred in our poll as Brazil gathered more than double the votes of three-time winners, Germany, who managed 58 nominations (17%).
Brazil 2014 World Cup kits © Nike/CBF
No European team has ever emerged triumphant when the finals have been held in South America, but 25-year-old Chris Asquith, of Kirkby, selected the Germans as he said: “They’ve got the best squad overall. They’ve got a history of doing well in the World Cup and I think they have the edge and experience.”
In third spot, current holders Spain were backed by 49 (14%), including 49-year-old Kevin McClelland from Wavertree, who told JMU Journalism: “It has to be Spain to lift the World Cup – good side, good players. Brazil is hot so you want teams that can play in hot weather. Can you imagine Wayne Rooney? His face would go like a beetroot.”
Following England (32), Belgium were perhaps a surprising choice in fifth place but the outstanding individuals that the Belgians have in the Premier League contributed to the confidence of 19 Liverpudlians in their prospects, while Argentina (17) and Uruguay (15) also had their admirers – with the Suarez factor clearly evident in the voting.
Scroll down through the full poll result comments below, along with edited explanations of the public’s choices.
Additional reporting by: Ben Cummings; Christy Jade Biggar; Sophie Corcoran; Jessica Arnell; Jessica Bond; Matthew Crosby; Astra Armitt; Katie Braithwaite; Steven Carson; Daniel Charlesworth; Bethany Cronin; James Knowles; Gabrielle Britton; Stephanie Bocking; Beth Collins; Nathan Burgess; Noor Ali; Conor Allison; Callum Smyth; Emily Curren; Lucy Darbyshire; Eleanor Davies; Sam Davies; James Gamble; Alexandra Gorton; Caoimhe Harkin; Emma Harrison; Kate Hewison; Hannah Hodgson; Bethan Hughes; Elliot Hughes; Amy Jones; Jessica Jones; Ryan Jones; Stephanie Jones; Adam Lawrance; Connor Lynch; Joseph Mallia; Charlotte Mann; Tiernan McGee; Lucy Nixon; Terence O’Sullivan; Lewis Phillips-Calvert; Lewis Price; Amber-Ainsley Pritchard; Barry Rocks; William Rogers; Kamara Samuels; Sophie Sear; Stephanie Sweeney; Emma White; Jack Whitehead; Jenny Kirkham; Emilia Ward; Alexandra Duncan; Laura Gilchrist; Amy Cole; Hannah Rogers; Leigh McManus; Aleksandra Kudra; Jake Hirst; Vaiva Gedvilaite; Kayleigh Quinn; Lisa Rimmer; Shadiya Omar; Elle Spencer; Michael Henry; Thomas Miton; Harry Webb & Rochelle Beighton.
Chris Stack, 35, Liverpool
“I don’t support England so the team I’m going for is Brazil because they are the most attacking team.”
Steven Brown, 43, Liverpool
“I’m going to go for Brazil, they are the home nation, they have a lot of good talent and the crowd will be on their side.”
Zach Morris, 22, Cambridge
“I think Spain will win because they have all the class talent.”
James Brown, 23, Liverpool
“I’m going for Brazil, they are the home nation and they are used to the heat there.”
Owen Farron, 23, Liverpool
“Brazil, because it is in Brazil and they are one of the best teams.”
Rob Owen, 22, Liverpool
“I’m going to go for Brazil because they have a strong attacking force and they are used to the climate.”
Matt Dillon, 31, Liverpool
“I think it would be a South American team and I think it would be Argentina, they’re used to the climate and they have [Lionel] Messi.”
Jamie Wilson, 33, Liverpool
“I’m going to go for Brazil, they are on their home turf, which would be to their advantage.”
Cain Vincent, 81, Liverpool
“I’m going to choose Brazil, it is always the same… Brazil are always there.”
John Duffy, 33, Liverpool
“Belgium – they have a sick team even though they have lost [Christian] Benteke.”
Ben Thompson, 25, Wrexham
“If I had to choose it would be Brazil, they have the best squad and they play the best football.”
John Simpson, 19, Liverpool
“Brazil. Home advantage makes them definite favourites.”
Alessio Gabriele, 19, London
“Italy. They’re my team and of course the best.”
Tony Roberts, 70, Liverpool
“Spain. They’re the favourites and you won’t get much from England. Also I don’t think the South Americans are that good.”
Paurick Mullaney, 20, Ireland
“Brazil. I’d like to say Portugal but it’s got to be Brazil as it’s on their home turf. And they have Neymar.”
Bernie Collins, 62, Liverpool
“Brazil. They’re just class aren’t they?”
Matty Ryan, 19, Warrington
“Brazil. It has to be, it’s in their home country.”
Derek Deveroux, 60, Liverpool
“Brazil. England has got no chance, but Brazil play good football and the heat will suit them.”
Martin Butler, 55, Ireland
“Germany. No European team has won it in South America yet and Germany is just a very strong team.”
Louis Knight, 19, Liverpool
“Brazil. It’s got to be Brazil I think, home advantage will play a big part.”
Jason Slater, 19, Wrexham
“Brazil. They’re a good team playing in their home country.”
Chris Rigby, 21, Preston
“Brazil – they are a good promising team. Spain are the only team who can possibly compete against them, but they’re getting on a bit.”
Andy Walters, 21, Lincoln
“Belgium. They have a very good squad of young talent.”
Richard Steins, 24, Liverpool
“Brazil. They’re the hosts; it’s where the World Cup’s held so they’ve got all of their supporters behind them.”
Burt Meredith, 70, Wirral
“Spain because they’re really good at football and they won the World Cup last time. I think they’ve got a good chance of winning again.”
Anne Meredith, 70, Wirral
“Germany. They definitely want it the most after coming so close last time.”
Nick Evans, 19, Liverpool
“Brazil. It’s in their home country so they might step up. They’ve got their whole following behind them.”
Chris Asquith, 25, Kirkby
“Germany. They’ve got the best squad overall. They’ve got a history of doing well in the World Cup and I think they have the edge and experience.”
Darren Lynch, 27, Cork
“Uruguay. They’ve got two really good strikers and I think this will help them win. I’d really like to see them go far.”
Amy Dagnall, 19, Warrington
“Portugal. They’re better than England and they’ve got Cristiano Ronaldo – I really like him.”
David Risley, 56, Ellesmere Port
“Germany. They’re always in the last four. They’ve got the experience to do well and go far.”
William Doran, 72, Liverpool
“Germany, they’ve got good experience and they always do well in their competitions.”
Margaret Doran, 70, Liverpool
“England. They just always seem to get ready for big competitions just like this, or maybe I’m just holding on to the ‘66 World Cup.”
Richard Pedder, 66, Anfield
“England. They’ve got five Liverpool players and they all play together so they know each other’s game.”
Ahmed Alaloos, 20, Libya
“Brazil, they’re the best in the world. They have Neymar, the best player in the world. I hope Kaká plays in the World Cup.”
Arthur Roberts, 47, Kensington
“Brazil, most of the time it’s played in the nation they win.”
Sue Walker, 43, Tuebrook
“Spain – they are the best team about and I love Xabi Alonso.”
Callum Fitzgibbon, 19, Liverpool
“The best midfield in the world is Germany’s, they are the strongest.”
Chris Free, 27, Liverpool
“I think Argentina, they have the best player in the world – Lionel Messi – who can beat that?”
Chris Delyon, 25, France
“Brazil, the best team in the world. Their best player is Neymar.”
Mark Baxter, 21, Liverpool
“Brazil, that’s where it’s being held and they usually win.”
Melissa Ryan, 68, Liverpool
“England because we’re the greatest team.”
Andy Cunningham, 42, Wallasey
“Brazil because they have a strong side and it’s been done five times before, so why not again?”
Lindsey Bennett, 28, Liverpool
“Spain have got the best team and they’re boss to watch.”
Zak Butler, 22, Liverpool
“I think that Brazil will win. Everyone thinks that Brazil will win. It’s obvious.”
Adam Adekoyn, 19, Belle Vale
“Belgium will win. I know they will. They have [Simon] Mignolet, he’s just the best goalkeeper. He’s worked amazingly with Liverpool this season. But then [Christian] Benteke is out for the World Cup. But still, Belgium will win.”
Finbarr O’Byrne, 40, Ireland
“Germany, because they have a really strong team this year. They won’t be too intimidated.”
Robert Loftus, 38, Halewood
“I think Uruguay will win the World Cup this year. It’s obvious. They have [Luis] Suarez!”
Simon Ellams, 54, Stoke-on-Trent
“Argentina will win it. They are a South American team so they’ll still feel at home. They have a lot of good players like [Lionel] Messi.”
Steven Cook, 28, Jersey
“Brazil will win. They are in their home country and they are an amazing team.”
Emma Gough, 40, Liverpool
“I think it’ll be Brazil. They have to win it, it’s in their country. My money is on them.”
Samantha Reid, 35, Liverpool
“Brazil because they’re hosting it. They’ll win.”
Jack Hunter-Spivey, 18, Widnes
“Spain are a good team. They’ll win in Rio this summer. I’m a paralympian and I’ll be there in 2016, but Spain will win the World Cup this year.”
Nathaniel Cummings, 21, South Liverpool
“Germany. They have the best young players and they have a lot of them. They’re a good team.”
Tom Hawkesfield, 22, Leicester
“Brazil because they are at home and great at football.”
Ben Turner, 20 Wigan
“I think Germany because they have a great squad.”
Mark Kennedy, 25, Liverpool
“I think Brazil because they are playing at home and they are one of the best teams in the world.”
Dave McLevey, 20, Heswall
“I’m very patriotic so I think England and we have a good squad.”
Stephanie Charles, 26, Liverpool
“England because I’m a Liverpool supporter and our English players are playing really well.”
Geoff Bell, 51, Wirral
“Brazil because they are a better team than everyone else and are more passionate about football.”
Jay Hannam, 70, Liverpool
“I think Germany because they have always had a very strong footballing side. They are better than everyone else.”
Karl Gardner, 48, Huyton
“Argentina because of their quality.”
Sam Range, 19, Liverpool
“England because I’m English and we have a good squad.”
Ross Davies, 20, Bootle
“Brazil because they are on home soil and are bound to play well.”
Becky Layden, 19, Crosby
“England. You’ve got to believe in your team, haven’t you?”
Jack Layden, 24, Crosby
“The Netherlands. They’ve got a tough group, having Spain and Chile in there, but I think they’ve got the talent to go all the way.”
Mike Cresswell, 26, Kirkdale
“I think Chile can do it. I really liked the way they played against England in that friendly. A South American team is probably going to do it, so why not them?”
Joe Couper, 24, Bootle
“Brazil. I think you’ve got to back them because they’re the home team.”
Ian Quinn, 45, Formby
“Germany. They’ve got all the best players, they’ve won it three times before and they know how to play to win.”
Tommy Daley, 72, West Derby
“Brazil. Nobody from outside South America has ever won it there before.”
Ellis Rawlinson, 18, Kirkby
“Spain. They’ve got a better squad than anyone else and I think they’ll do it like they did four years ago.”
Lee Woolley, 29, Kirkby
“Uruguay. They’ve got the best players – they’ve got [Luis] Suarez and [Edinson] Cavani, haven’t they?”
John Dobbin, 33, Walton
“Brazil. You’d have to say they’ve got the best squad.”
John Hughes, 66, Liverpool
“Brazil. They’re playing at home. The only other team that could get to them is Germany. I think the climate will get to the other European teams.”
Josh Rawson, 20, London
“Brazil, they’re one of the best teams in the world and I think they’re due a win.”
Daniel Cross, 19, Liverpool
“Spain have the best team and their style of playing football is class.”
John Unsworth, 28, Liverpool
“Brazil. They have a home advantage as well as being a great team and having great players.”
Derek Howlett, 56, Preston.
“Belgium. They’ve got some great players, and they knit together well as a whole team.”
Stewart Bailey, 52, Leicester
“Germany, probably. They’ve got the best and the strongest players. They’re a big side at the minute.”
Mick Flaherty, 33, Kirby
“Germany have a decent team in terms of strong starters. I can’t see anyone beating them.”
Eric Smith, 44, Manchester
“I think Argentina, and as a South American country, they’ll have the best players, definitely.”
Jerome Baker, 21, Manchester
“Spain. They won it last time and they have quality players.”
Jack Clapman, 19, Bournemouth
“England, because of [Adam] Lillana, [Jay] Rodriguez and [Luke] Shaw. They’ll do great on the pitch.”
Mark Crowe, 33, Birkenhead
“Spain, because they keep the ball off other teams, also because they’ve won it in the past.”
Danny Smyth, 19, Wirral
“Brazil – the home nation and they are the strongest squad and a personal favourite.”
Shane Jones, Birkenhead, 31
“Germany will win it because they have the best players and it’s their time.”
Dan Matthews, 40, Liverpool
“Brazil because they are the home nation, no European team has ever won in South America.”
Dylan Ellis, 28, Shropshire
“Brazil because they are one of the best teams and they have home advantage. Their home support will cheer them on.”
Shaun Walsh, 19, Telford
“England because I’m English so I am obviously going to support them.”
Lewis Muir, 20, Cheshire
“Germany because they have a squad full of quality that’s young, but still has experience which will allow them to overcome a difficult situation.”
Caolan McAleer, 21, Belfast
“Germany because they are the best and have the strongest squad.”
Philippe Clayton, 22, Bristol
“Brazil because they are the home team and no European team wins it apart from South America [when it’s held there].”
Ben Hignett, 16, Liverpool
“Italy because they always do well. I’m excited to watch.”
Sally Fisher, 47, Wirral
“I don’t watch the World Cup but from what my husband tells me I think Brazil will win because it is hosted there.”
Declan Rispin, 43, Ireland
“I think Germany will win, they have the strongest squad.”
Tom Buss, 20, London
“I think Germany, they always perform well in big tournaments and they’re the only team to challenge Spain at the moment.”
Joe Ryan, 20, Bristol
“I think Spain will win because they’re the best team. They’ll wear the opponents out before they get the chance to attack.”
Stan Cunvin, 82, Liverpool
“I’m from England so I’d back them.”
Andy Parry, 35, Prescot
“I think Brazil will win because they’re the home nation, and the heat – they’ll be acclimatised.”
Wayne Pearson, 30, Garston
“Brazil will win, they’ve got a good team, especially Neymar.”
Paula Falkir, 43, Aigburth
“I think England will win, I’m British and proud.”
Billy Boyle, 58, Dingle
“I think Brazil will win because they’re used to the South American weather. They’re acclimatised to those conditions and they’re a top team.”
Jordan Taylor, 29, Walton
“I think Chile will win. I’ve watched them over the past few weeks and they’re looking good.”
Lee Kevan, 25, Anfield
“Brazil is the obvious one because they’re the home nation and probably the best team all round.”
Neil Hockady, 47, Ormskirk
“Brazil will win because of the climate and weather conditions – they’ll be more suited. I think they’ll win as well by looking at the history of the World Cup.”
Andrew Jackson, 46, Childwall
“I think Spain will win it because they’re a very good team at international level.”
Thomas Hincks, 21, Liverpool
“I think Belgium will win it, they have a lot of up and coming players. I would say that [Marouane] Fellaini will help them, but he doesn’t play for Everton anymore.”
Shaun Buxton, 20, Bedford
“I think Germany. I was watching Bayern Munich the other night and was really impressed.”
Charlotte Etheridge, 20, Rochdale
“I think Spain will win it. They seem to have the best players.”
Barry Freeman, 32, Liverpool
“I think Belgium, because they have a great squad, with world class players. I think they are going to be a surprise this year.”
George Wilson, 43, Liverpool
“Brazil, because they are the hosts, I think the crowd will encourage them.”
Charles Dickson, 33, Leeds
“I think Spain will win it, because their team has the most experience.”
Paul Kilbain, 32, Liverpool
“Spain, because they have done it before.”
Mark Davis, 20, Cheshire
“Argentina. Because the tournament is on their doorstep, they will be up for it.”
Sam Anderson, 19, London
“I think Germany will win it, because they have the strongest team.”
Jessica Clegg, 20, Blackburn
“I think Portugal has got a good chance, they always do well but they’ve never won it and I think this year might be their best chance.”
Rachel Campbell, 22, Aigburth
“Brazil have got a really good team, they’ve won five times already so they know they can do it.”
Emilio Ricci, 20, Liverpool
“I think Italy could do it, our form is OK and I think the team really want it. I’m half-Italian so my family would kill me if I said any other team!”
Jamie Watson, 22, Leicester
“It’s a bit obscure but I think Belgium will win it. They are a really underrated side, no one thinks they will win it but I like an underdog.”
Benedict Okafor, 32, Nigeria
“To me it is obvious that Brazil will win it. They have the best team so far compared with all of the other countries.”
Christina Eacino, 22, Florence
“I really love football. I think Italy will win, [Mario] Balotelli will win it for us.”
Abbie Gilman, 19, Lincolnshire
“England will win it, I hope. A lot of good things have happened for England lately, like the Olympics, I just have a good feeling that they will win.”
Luke Haughton, 18, Aintree
“I think Germany will win it, because they have the best 11, they’re a great team. The other teams have got one or two superstars but Germany has a whole squad.”
Callum Cherry, 18, Northampton
“Spain, they’re the best team in the world I think and they’ve got a bit of confidence because they’ve just won the Euros. [Andres] Iniesta is a very strong player.”
Oliver French, 18, Bootle
“Brazil definitely, they’re the best team and they’ve got the best players and they’ve got the home side advantage.”
Sarah Wyatt, 18, Rugby
“I think England because they haven’t won in a while and it means a lot to them.”
George Phillips, 19, Liverpool
“Brazil because they’re the home nation and there’s no denying they’re a fantastic team.”
Stuart Jefferies, 20, Cheltenham
“Spain because they’re amazing – their entire team is the Barcelona team and it’s the best team in the world.”
Daniel Whitehead, 29, London
“Mexico because it’s in South America, also because Giovani dos Santos is the centre, and I’m a Spurs fan.”
David Norton, 18, Liverpool
“Brazil because they’re the hosts, like in the Olympics in Sochi, Russia won more medals than the other contenders.”
Jill Jenkins, 26, Liverpool
“My money’s on the Brazilian team because of the politics of football – it’s raw, it’s real football, and it’s not as commercial. A lot of the players for their team this year are people who have come from nothing and worked their way up so they play real football and it’s not about the money. They play for playing.”
Amy Denobriga, 29, Derby
“I want to say Ivory Coast, or I think an African team for sure because they play the best football.”
Kevin Moore, 23, Liverpool
“Probably Brazil, they’re the hosts and have better players – the host always wins.”
Patrick Pritchard, 22, Swansea
“Germany – but then again with the World Cup being in South America, South American teams always win it, but I still think Germany because they’re sick.”
James Cranston, 25, Southampton
“I think Germany, because they’re the best and they’re efficient.”
David McKeagney, 17, Liverpool
“Chile, I think they’re quite a good team and have quite an easy group to start with.”
Alan Campbell, 26, Widnes
“Definitely not England. I would say Spain because they have better team performances than anyone else and are the best team in the world.”
Mark Duckett, 25, Widnes
“Uruguay because [Luis] Suarez is playing.”
Shaun O’Gorman, 23, Warrington
“Germany will win because they have most of their players in their own national league. They have a good youth system and bring through a lot of young talent.”
Josh Jones, 20, Liverpool
“Germany because they have a young team and the best team. It’s not the fact that they have individual players but the fact they all work together.”
William Bethell, 26, Wavertree
“I would say Belgium they have some really good young players. Their main player will be [Eden] Hazard and he is in good form going in to it.”
Declan Walsh, 21, Belfast
“I’ll go for Germany because they are one of the strongest teams and have great depth in their squad to cover injuries if they have them.”
Henry Pass, 19, Knutsford
“As much as it pains me as an Englishman, I have to say Germany. They seem to have a young squad that will deal well with the conditions.”
William Gordon, 62, Liverpool
“I have to go with my head over my heart. I would love it to be England but Germany are the better side and will win.”
Christian Richardson, 17, Liverpool
“Brazil would be my pick because they are hosting it. Neymar will win it for them, he is top class.”
Joseph Tummino, 17, Liverpool
“Definitely Germany. They are efficient, a great side and have all the best players in Europe.”
Simon Black, 17, St Helens
“I’m going to say Ghana. They are the best team, and have the best players like Asamoah Gyan. They also have a great manager.”
Matt Haughton, 28, Liverpool
“Brazil because they’re the best side and the home nation.”
Anthony Braun, 22, Liverpool
“I think Germany will win, they have a young side, full of quality players.”
Jennifer Marsden, 35, Liverpool
“I have a good feeling about England, hopefully we take a few youngsters. I think the lovely Ross Barkley could do well.”
Ian Ogilvie, Liverpool
“I’ll go for Brazil mainly because they are the home nation, they’ll have the support.”
Nick Meredith, 19, Liverpool
“If [Rademel] Falcao is fit Colombia have a strong starting 11, they could surprise a few people.”
Al Jarvis, Liverpool
“Brazil has got the best team in the world and play the best football.”
James Myers, 67, Liverpool
“I think Argentina will win, I think they have the best all-round players.”
James Hurst, 18, Liverpool
“I think Belgium will be the dark horses they’ve got some great young players, like our [Everton’s] Romelu Lukaku.”
Collin Malone, 57, Liverpool
“I’d have to go for Spain, I think they play the best football. They play it how they should be, they play it on the ground.”
Greg Killen, 20, Wirral
“Brazil, home side with a decent young squad that should be able to see them through.”
Dale Seer, 31, Crosby
“Uruguay, they will beat England in the group and they have [Luis] Suarez.”
Luke Holliday, 20, Newcastle
“Brazil – they have home advantage and they will cope with the weather better.”
Ben Matthews, 19, Staffordshire
“Spain, they won the last couple of tournaments and they have got the squad for it.”
Sarah Lightfoot, 20, Liverpool
“Spain, just because they are better than other countries and more athletic.”
Jake Cottrill, 19, Newbury
“Brazil, it’s in South America and they did well in the Confederations Cup.”
Robert Obree, 38, Wirral
“Brazil, they are playing on their home turf and it went well for France when they hosted it.”
Josh Handscomb, 21, Dudley
“Germany, I first thought Belgium but now that [Christian] Benteke is out I have to go with Germany.”
Kaley Ellis, 26, Liverpool
“England because the ‘wags’ aren’t going so they have a chance. The wags usually think about where they a going for tea next.”
Joanne McGinn, 24, Liverpool
“England, Just because it’s England and I really want them to win.”
Nick Cosgrove, 29, Liverpool
“Brazil, They are the home nation who can cope with the weather and have got a decent squad.”
Patrick Murphy, 68, Liverpool
“I don’t want them to but I think Germany, just because they always seem to pull something out of the bag.”
Paul Winters, 32, Birkenhead
“I think Brazil will win it, although I’d love Belgium to win it instead. Brazil have home advantage though and they play really good attacking football.”
John Carrick, 38, Liverpool
“Germany because of how good their team is. I really don’t want Spain to win it again as well.”
Derek Williams, 30, Kirkby
“I’d go for Spain, just because they have the best team, you can’t get possession off of them.”
Alan Freed, 43, Liverpool
“England, I hope. You’ve got to stay patriotic for a World Cup. I don’t think our team is as bad as everyone says too.”
Will Hall, 20, Stockport
“Uruguay could snatch it purely because of how good [Luis] Suarez is. He’s a football genius at the end of the day.”
Paul Kennedy, 49, Liverpool
“I like the looks of Belgium. A lot of their players play in the Premier League and I think they have a very good team.”
Gill Bradley, 45, Liverpool
“I think Brazil because they’re the hosts and I think they’ve won it the most times as well.”
Usman Ali, 20, Liverpool
“I’d pick Italy, they play better as a team than England, for example, because all their players are used to playing with each other domestically. I think they have good team chemistry.”
Sergio Fernandes, 29, Liverpool
“I’m from Brazil so I have to go with them, we have a good squad and the home advantage should count for something as well.”
Ryan Berridge, 20, Liverpool
“I think it will be Germany, I really like their team and would much rather see them win it than Brazil.”
Brian Clarke, 55, Liverpool
“Brazil has the best team and the fact they’re hosts will count for a lot as well, so I think Brazil.”
Kev Anderson, 60, Liverpool
“Brazil – because they’re at home and luck will be with them.”
Jack Fitzgibbon, 19, Liverpool
“Germany will win it because I think they’re an under-rated team, a lot of people don’t rate them.”
James Lockhart, 36, Liverpool
“I’d probably say Germany as they’re strong and the most consistent team at the moment – they’re a machine.”
Stuart Wickfall, 30, Liverpool
“It’s not an England answer is it? No, I’d go for Spain; they’ve got the strongest squad.”
Alex Haslam, 25, Liverpool
“I’d like it to be England, but I’d go for Germany because they’re far better than England are, unfortunately.”
Liam Abdullah, 18, Liverpool
“Germany. They’re a brilliant team and, let’s be honest, they are the best at football at the moment.”
Aiden Haughton, 21, Liverpool
“I’d say Brazil because their players all around are better than the others.”
Tom Westhead, 26, Liverpool
“I’d go for Brazil because of their squad, it’s really improved in the last year and as they’re the hosts they will have luck on their side.”
Jacob Dyson, 19, Liverpool
“Yeah, it’s got to be England, because we haven’t won it for years now, so we should win it with a bit of luck.”
Steven Cunningham, 23, Liverpool
“I think Uruguay will win it because they’ve got a decent defence and a great striker, obviously, in [Luis] Suarez.”
Jay Fazakerly, 20, Southport
“England because I’m English. If we don’t believe in ourselves then who will?”
Fiona Collins, 50, London
“Italy because they play well and they’re a great team.”
Prince Ehigiator, 20, Manchester
“Brazil because they’ll be at home. I think that will make them play better.”
Jake Corner, 17, Wavertree, Liverpool
“Germany because they’re the best team and have the better chance. However, I’m not a fan.”
Sophie Pearson, 27, Liverpool
“Brazil because they always have a good record. Also because they’ll be playing in their own country – it will make them play better.”
Konnor Lyness, 22, Luton
“Brazil because they’re the best team. Also because they’re home so they’ll be used to the climate.”
Danny Kattam, 41, Liverpool
“Spain because they have the best players in the world. I’m a fan of theirs. I love England but I’d prefer Spain to win.”
Graham Burnelli, 36, Leeds
“Costa Rica because they’ve been really strong in the qualifiers. I think they may surprise us.”
Focois Homont, 21, France
“Germany because they’re my favourite. They’ve been practising really hard and I think they’re the best football team at the moment.”
Arthur Marais, 33, France
“France because it’s my country and they’re a very good team.”
Kieran Morris, 21, Ireland
“Spain because they are the current champions and have a complete team with very few weaknesses.”
Darren Willcox, 28, Liverpool
“Brazil because they have home advantage and they will be used to the temperature and humidity.”
David McKinlay, 20, Hull
“Brazil because they’re at home and they’re not a bad side.”
Jim Corrin, 70, Liverpool
“Uruguay, because they have [Luis] Suarez. Enough said.”
Jonny Hartley, 20 , Liverpool
“Spain. They have too many quality players not to win it.”
Johnny Kershaw, 18, Kent
“I think Germany will win it because they are strong and their clubs have been doing brilliantly.”
Chris Morris, 19, Liverpool
“I think Brazil will win because that’s where it’s being held.”
Dickson Dike, 36, Nigeria
“Brazil, though it will be close. Nigeria don’t have a chance.”
Andrew Wishart, 45, Cumbria
“Brazil because they have home advantage.”
Callum Grogan, 19, Liverpool
“Brazil are going to win because it’s their World Cup.”
Joseph Millett, 57, Liverpool
“Argentina because [Lionel] Messi is a great player and there are a lot of younger lads coming through. It’s all about the money now.”
Tony Harris, 32, Birkenhead
“Germany because the standard of German football best in the world.”
Hannah Burgan, 25, Chester
“Spain, they have got a strong squad with pace. They have good creativity in midfield with options for a starting eleven. They also have good back up for injuries.”
Steve Thomas, 18, North Wales
“Belgium because they have [Eden] Hazard and he is a great player.”
Joseph McDermott, 19, Liverpool
“Spain because they have Diego Costa as a striker now and that’s what was missing before.”
Jack Cotton, 18, Liverpool
“Argentina because [Lionel] Messi deserves to win a World Cup.”
Jordan Davies, 19, Derry
“Germany because they have a great squad.”
Dave Marsh, 30, Waterford
“Germany because their midfield is very strong.”
Martin Beadle, 22, London
“Belgium, their wingers are very quick and their strikers can also do the job. Their youth and enthusiasm will see them through.”
Kerry Wilson, 27, Wirral
“I really fancy Cristiano Ronaldo, so I’m going to go with Portugal just for him.”
Chris Miller, 24, Cambridge
“Brazil, they have got home advantage and are the founders of the original beautiful game.”
Claire Harrison, 25, Liverpool
“I want Spain to win, my boyfriend is Spanish and that’s who he supports so I want them to win, too.”
Peter Johnson, 22, Bootle
“Brazil, they are the hosts and will have the majority of the support. That’s where my money is going.”
Graham Perkins, 58, Liverpool
“I like to root for the underdogs so I am going to be supporting a team like Algeria.”
Julie Lenaghan, 46, St Helens
“England because you have to support for your own team, your country and show some national pride.”
Sarah Lavery, 21, Belfast
“Brazil because I want to see them play the most, they have the most attractive players.”
Jay Thomas, 32, Liverpool
“Belgium, because they’ve got good players, I just fancy them to win.”
David Wood, 32, Huyton
“I would like England to win because I feel I should be backing them, but it’s obviously going to be Brazil.”
Louis Garcia, 23, London
“Brazil, because they are the hosts and they won the Confederations Cup.”
Ellen Quayle, 20, Liverpool
“Spain, because they have an amazing squad and previous World Cup and Euros success. They are a very experienced team.”
Sophie Wastling, 18, Glasgow
“Chile, because they play good football – and they are not Brazil!”
Gene Coates, 28, Liverpool
“Argentina they have good players and having being playing very well.”
Peter Bamford, 32, Liverpool
“Argentina, they have a good team with great players.”
Daniel Watkin, 20, Preston
“England, because the youths have been coming through recently and they can win it for us.”
Natasha Tanner, 21, Manchester
“Italy, because they have quite a strong team and good players.”
Ali Dashti, 19, Kuwait
“Brazil, they have the enthusiasm and a full squad. Spain don’t have the strikers and Argentina have no defence. They have no chance.”
Gaynor Watts, 44, Wirral
“Belgium, just because a few of their players play for Everton and that’s my team.”
Daniel Koroye, 20, Nigeria
“Nigeria because everybody in their team is a star – they have very good players.”
Daniel Braley, 21, Northern Ireland
“Portugal because it’s their time and Spain cannot win it twice in a row.”
Bobby McHale, 19, Manchester
“Brazil, because they are at home and they are a good team.”
Liam Reeve, 25, Wigan
“Possibly Spain as they play the most attractive football. The Spanish league is the strongest at present and they have experience of winning tournaments recently.”
Chris Williams, 23, Crosby
“Uruguay, because they’re a South American team and they’ll adjust to the climate well. Also, they’ve got some of the best strikers.”
Mike Brian, 23, London
“Brazil. I’m not the biggest football expert but from what I’ve heard I would say them because they’re in their home country and they have a good team.”
George Rimmer, 76, West Derby
“Brazil, they’ve always been the best squad around and it’s full of good players.”
Adam Leese, 19, Northern Ireland
“Brazil, because they’re at home and they’ll be more determined to win because they’ll have more support around them.”
Lily Davies, 19, Bootle
“I’m going to go ahead and say England. I’m always going to support my home country. I’ve got faith they can do it.”
Steven Padden, 53, Birkdale
“Brazil are definitely going to win, it’s on their soil and they’ve got the support of their home fans.”
Nicki Morrissey, 47, Crosby
“Germany because they’ve got a few good players and they’ve won it before.”
Tom Harrison, 19, Southport
“Spain will win, they’ve got decent players and I’ve seen that they’ve got strong odds in the bookies.”
Anthony Tierney, 23, Liverpool
“Brazil, because it’s in Brazil and support from fans will help them win.”
Luke Goddard, 25, Southport
“Belgium because they’ve got a strong squad. They’ve made it to the semi-finals before.”
Paul Birdwood, 23, West Derby
“Brazil, because that’s where it is. And its Brazil, isn’t it? It’s the players they’ve got.”
Tom Burns, 16, Liverpool
“Spain, they won the last one. They got a lot of good players too, [Xabi] Alonso and [Cesc] Fabregas.”
Hayleigh Knight, 26, Manchester
“Germany because I think it would be a controversial win, but it could happen. They have big rivalry with the England.”
Danny Williams, 73, Birkenhead
“England because they are better than they used to be, I can’t see anyone beating them, not even Brazil. “
Alan Burgess, 47, Birkenhead
“Anyone but Brazil. I would say Uruguay, just because of [Luis] Suarez really. I’m a Liverpool fan and he’s the best player we have.”
Rebecca Robinson, 19, North Yorkshire
“England because we haven’t won it in a while, since 1966. We are due to win it sometime soon.”
Madison Barnes, 18, North Yorkshire
“Brazil because they have won it before and I watched them play once and they are really good aren’t they? They win all the time.”
Andy Smiley, 30, Liverpool
“Brazil, because the home circumstances favour them and they will have the whole country behind them.”
David Hoose, 32, Liverpool
“Argentina because they are a decent team and haven’t won the World Cup in a while. And because they have rivalry with Brazil.”
Mikey Callister, 23, Isle of Man
“Brazil, because they’ve got the home crowd and will be bouncing off them. Plus they’ve got good players.”
Richard Dempsey, 35, Liverpool
“It’s got to be Argentina. I think this will be [Lionel] Messi’s year with Argentina, players like [Sergio] Agüero of Man City and [Angel] di Maria to support him – they’re all good players.”
Steven Morgan, 19, Liverpool
“England will win it. We will beat the Italians, draw with Uruguay and beat the other team [Costa Rica]. No-one expects us to go through so that’s why we will do it. Plus it’s Steven Gerrard’s last chance at a World Cup. He’s got the form going into the tournament and the confidence with Liverpool.”
John Wendell, 41, Toxteth
“Brazil. They play better football than anyone. When they have the ball you just can’t get it off them. And when they lose the ball they win it back so quickly. That Dani Alves is unbelievable.”
Frank Yeboah, 34, Ghana
“Brazil. They have all that is required. They’ve got a good team, good goal keepers, good defence, good dribblers. They entertain the crowd with their dribblers and that is why they will win because they have more support from the crowd.”
Tony Burns, 31, Kensington
“I think Brazil will win it, it’s in their home country and they are well use to the heat which will take an effect on players.”
Ryan Mackle, 22, County Down, Northern Ireland
“Belgium. They have a great team, they have players like [Eden] Hazard and [Romelu] Lukaku.”
Kevin McClelland, 49, Wavertree
“It has to be Spain to lift the World Cup – good side, good players. Brazil is hot so you want teams that can play in hot weather. Can you imagine Wayne Rooney? His face would go like a beetroot.”
George Dickinson, 25, Londonderry, Northern Ireland
“I want Germany to win, they are a solid outfit, and their attack is deadly, lethal with players like Mario Götze and Mesut Özil.”
Connor Little, 39, Dovecot
“Spain are amazing at football, with their tiki-taka quick passing. They’re always on the toes waiting to break through the other team’s defence. Definitely a team that will be favourite.”
Aidan O’Neill, 30, County Cork, Ireland
“I fancy Germany a lot to win the World Cup, they got the best players because of the big teams in Germany, like Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund. They are a unit throughout the team, in defence, midfield and in attack.”
Carl Kay, 27, Wirral
“Germans are good at European and World Cup tournaments. They’ve got better players, like Thomas Müller. He scores goals in big games like he does for Bayern Munich.”
James Dolan, 79, Dublin
“Well, it’s between Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay. The South American teams. They’ve got the best players. I’d say Argentina.”
John Busow, 32, Liverpool
“Probably Brazil. They’re always strong aren’t they? I’ve supported them since I was about nine. I like Brazil, I like the way they play but obviously I want England to do well.”
Lee Melia, 20, Liverpool
“Spain because they’ve got the better players, and they’re the best price. I’ve gone for them.”
Billy Norris, 76, Liverpool
“Brazil. They’re in their home country. They’re the best team in the world. They’re not as good as they were in the 70s but they are taught properly.”
Shaun Adams, 26, Liverpool
“Argentina. They’ve got the best players with [Lionel] Messi mainly and [Sergio] Aguero.”
Caolan Concannon, 19, Coventry
“Brazil or Germany. Probably Brazil, they have got the best strikers, Neymar, and they’ve got a decent midfield as well.”
Alex Howarth, 21, Liverpool
“Germany. They’re the dominant force in the world at the minute. If I was going to put money on anyone it would be Germany.”
Paul Gorham, 41, Ireland
“Belgium. I think they’ve a lot of upcoming young players playing well in the Premiership. They could be the surprise party of the tournament.”
Ian Culligan, 41, Ireland
“I like to think Uruguay because who do they have upfront? Luis Suarez. The weather will suit them.”
Collum Woods, 40, Ireland
“I think that Argentina are going to win because they have the best player in the world, Lionel Messi.”
Dave Collins, 20, Liverpool
“Brazil because it’s in their home country and they’re used to the climate so I think it could go in their favour.”
Steve Wooders, 32, Huyton
“Uruguay. They have some of the best players and will boss it in Brazil.”
James Hirstle, 30, Huyton
“England. They’re our home team and the young players will really go for it and help us to go further than we have done.”
Lee Stafford, 28, Liverpool
“Brazil, they have the best players and it’s in their own country so they have an advantage that the others don’t.”
David Jones, 30, Liverpool
“Spain because they have a history of doing well and they could do well again this year.”
Tabraiz Singh, 21, Wirral
“Brazil, they have better players and always do well.”
Alex Longshaw, 20, Birkenhead
“England, we haven’t done so well in the past but I think we can do it this year.”
Liam Cannon, 22, Liverpool
“Germany because they do have some good players and are better than most people think.”
Franco Callangeli, 73, Wirral
“I reckon that Brazil will win it because they play at home and they do play a very exciting football.”
Mustafa Shabar, 22, Saudi Arabia
“Spain. They won it last time and they have so many good players, I think they definitely will win it.”
Christian West, 27, Liverpool
“Brazil. It is in Brazil and it is going to be a South American team, with the climate. It’s going to be very hard for a European team.”
Mitchell Morris, 20, Whiston
“Brazil. They’ve won it so many times, and they are a good team – they always have a chance.”
Michael Robinson, 28, Liverpool
“Belgium. They have good players. I think they are in with a shout this year although they might be an underdog.”
James Murphy, 22, Liverpool
“Spain. It’s the first team that came to my head. I was going to say England but they have no chance.”
Leo Riley, 69, Liverpool
“I hope it’s not England, I can’t stand them. I just don’t like the way the players get on. I hope Brazil win.”
Clive Beesley, 45, West Derby
“Brazil, they are the best team, I don’t think England have a chance.”
Yas Ali, 30, Accrington
“Germany, they’re in good form. England aren’t the best nowadays so I don’t think they will do anything.”
Zam Ali, 27, Accrington
“France, they are a good team, and I quite like the players. I’d love to say England but you know I am being realistic.”
Max Con, 29, Blackburn
“England. I think they have a good chance, if they play well anything can happen – it’s football.”
Peter Brenneman, 43, Switzerland
“I think Switzerland will come first or second in the group, maybe they will make it to the semi-final, but I think Brazil have the best chance of winning.”
Michael Cullen, 19, Aigburth
“Brazil. It’s in their country and they’ve got a decent team who have a history of playing consistently well.”
Jake Wilkinson, 16, Fazakerley
“Germany, they’ve got a young squad but have experience.”
Steven Lumley, 22, Liverpool
“Spain. They are by far the better team – they’ve got too many good players!”
Ryan Muir, 23, Liverpool
“Germany – they’ve got the most efficient team and are proven winners. Bayern Munich are predominantly German and are winners.”
Derek Ithell, 67, Rockferry
“It certainly won’t be England! Maybe Uruguay or Brazil because they’re used to the heat. If I had to choose one country it would have to be Brazil.”
Paul Fitzgerald, 24, Tyrone
“Spain. They are the best team full stop!”
Dave Toner, 48, Bromborough
“Spain. They know how to keep the ball and they’re used to playing in the heat, so they’ll have the other teams running around after the ball to tire them out.”
John Oakes, 27, Liverpool
“Definitely Brazil. They’re used to the heat, they’ve got a great team but they are a bit dodgy at the back.”
Aiden McCarthy, 29, Fermanagh
“Belgium. They have a very young attacking squad and they’re strong even without [Christian] Benteke.”
Louis Wilson, 18, Toxteth
“Germany. They have a young squad and they are winners.”
Tom Flaherty, 19, Huyton
“Brazil – it’s in their home country so they’re going to win.”
Aaron Taylor, 30, Liverpool
“Spain. They came out winners last time, I reckon they’ll win it again.”
Andrew Riley, 53, Tuebrook
“Not England. I think Brazil because I’ve been there and love the place. I reckon they can do it.”
Paul Gardner, 44, Liverpool
“Hopefully England. Yeah, it’s about time they won it. I’m proud to be English.”
Sean McCarthy, 20, Ireland
“Germany. They’ve got the best side and I’m a big fan of Marco Reus.”
Alan Davies, 40, Liverpool
“England. We’ll take the cup out of Brazil.”
Richard Matthews, 72, Liverpool
“Spain will win it. They’ve got the weather on their side.”
Simon Bates, 66, Liverpool
“Uruguay. They’re good on attack and they’ve got the best attacker in the world on their team in Luis Suarez, plus they’ve got [Edinson] Cavani.”
Josh Morton, 20, Mold
“Brazil – they’re at home, they’ll have all the fans and they won’t want to let them down. They’re an amazing team anyway, so yeah I definitely think Brazil.”
Sarah Johnson, 19, Walton
“I really don’t have a clue! I guess I’ll just say England. You never know, eh?”
Sam Doolan, 52, West Derby
“I reckon it could be Spain, they were so good last time winning and I just think they’ll do it again.”
James Morrissey, 37, Kirkby
“Holland came so close last time, I think they could do it this time round.”
Syd Farmer, 64, Old Roan
“You know, I’m going to say England. I know you might think it’s never going to happen, but you’ve got to be optimistic haven’t you?”
Jonathan Keating, 49, London
“Germany, they have got an excellent team”
Kevin Moran, 25, Knotty Ash
“Brazil are obviously the favourites. They’ve got a world class team and they’re at home.”
Gemma Hill, 31, Heswall
“I don’t really know anything about football. Spain won last time didn’t they? I’ll say them to win again then.”
Mark Lyons, 57, Chester
“I’m not really a footy man, more into the rugby, but Brazil are the clear winners aren’t they. They’re at home.”
Ben Marsden, 26, Maghull
“My money’s on Argentina. When you’ve got [Lionel] Messi you don’t need much else!”
Jose Rodriguez, 24, Benalmadena
“Well I am from Spain, so yes of course I must say my country win.”
Adam Saunders, 20, Melling
“Uruguay, they’ve got Luis Suarez playing for them and they are going to go all the way.”
Tom North, 19, Wolverhampton
“With Brazil being the hosts and playing at home, I’d expect them to win with that support.”
James Welsh, 60, Liverpool
“Brazil are the favourites and I think they’ll win at home. They’ve also got experience of winning big competitions.”
Frank Brown, 74, Liverpool
“It’s simple really – the best team wins and I think Brazil have the best team.”
Pat McNally, 47, Liverpool
“Brazil because their squad contains a lot of talent and I think they’ve got the best team in the tournament.”
Steve Jones, 43, Liverpool
“Germany as they have got a great up-and-coming squad and they always deliver at big tournaments.”
Aaron Karim, 19, Leeds
“Uruguay, because they’ve got Luis Suarez who is the best player in the world. Obviously it’s a team sport but any team with Suarez is capable of winning.”
Laura Jordan, 21, Liverpool
“Brazil due to the immense support and high expectations they will have from playing on home soil. They’ve also got an easy group so I can see them getting through quite easily.”
Ralph Graham, 68, Liverpool
“Brazil – they are the best team in the competition and plus they are playing at home.”
Chris Jewell, 19, Manchester
“Spain have got great depth to their squad and quality in all areas, so I can see them lifting the trophy.”
Dan O’Sullivan, 20, Liverpool
“Brazil because I can see them winning due to their home advantage.”
George Wilson, 64, Liverpool
“Spain. They seem to be the best. But I think Argentina will be the dark horses of the tournament.”