For me, a European team has just as much chance as a South American team of winning this years World Cup. If I were forced to make a prediction I would say the South American teams edge it by a neck, particularly Brazil. Why? Nothing to do with squad talent per se, though a look at Uruguay and Argentina's squads, and obviously Brazil's, show some supreme attacking talent, and though weaker defensively, still not too bad. More to do with partisan crowds, unfamilar climate, spread out venues meaning much travelling, and the home advantage (relative).
It is hard to ignore history also. Indeed, history shows no non-South American winners of World Cups in the Americas full stop. Mexico 70 and 86, and USA 94 were all South American winners. However, for me, the previous points are more valid IMO for a South American winner.
from Europe, then Germany, Italy, or Spain could spoil the party. I don't expect much from France (though they will do better this time round but hardly difficult not to), and for England a last 16 place max. Dark horses for me are Belgium. Hugely talented squad, strong in all departments, and definitely worth a punt. What price on a Belgium v Uruguay final? 
Originally Posted by: Lumi-Ukko