1 – Brazil: They started slowly in qualifying but, since Tite took over, Brazil have impressed. Neymar scored in both Selecao warm-up friendlies and, despite Dani Alves’ absence through injury, they look strong.

2 – Germany: The defending champions are the team to beat; after all, how many sides can afford to leave out a player like Leroy Sane? Germany have underwhelmed in warm-up games but will be there or thereabouts.

3 – Spain: After three straight tournament wins, Spain flopped in the past two. Can a combination of old guard and new faces get them back to the top in Russia? An early test vs Portugal will give a good idea.

4 – France: Didier Deschamps has so much talent at his disposal that his biggest test is finding the right combination! France went close to winning the Euros two years ago; can they emulate the class of ’98?

5 – Argentina: Argentina are also full of ability, but picking the correct XI is a challenge for Jorge Sampaoli. Essentially, can he put the right men with Lionel Messi? If so, the two-time champions have a chance.

6 – Belgium: Is this the tournament at which Belgium’s “golden generation” stamps their authority upon the biggest stage? Kevin De Bruyne and Eden Hazard are among the world’s best, but is the defence strong enough?

7 – England: Having promised much but delivered little for so long, England go to the World Cup with measured expectations. Gareth Southgate has a squad full of talent; can they make a name for themselves?

8 – Portugal: They are European champions and they have Cristiano Ronaldo, but Portugal are not even favourites to win their group. Still, nobody fancied them in France two years ago and look how that turned out!

9 – Uruguay: With Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani up front, as well as the veteran presence of Diego Godin at the back, Uruguay can make an impact. A favourable draw gives them an even greater chance of going far.

10 – Colombia: One of the stories of the 2014 World Cup, Colombia will have hopes of an encore. The presence of Radamel Falcao, absent four years ago, is a boost, while James Rodriguez will be creator-in-chief.