:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/34240403/450463586.0.jpg)
As all of my esteemed colleagues (even that Manning fellow) have already revealed their World Cup predictions, it is time for me to make mine. Back in 2010 I was well-versed in the world game and confident in my picks. I don't have the same feeling this time. Between injuries, new managers, young (and unproven) players, and the chance that some stadiums will still be under contraction as matches are played, we could be in for some surprises:
Winners - Germany
Second Place - Brazil
Semi Finalists - Spain, Argentina
Golden Ball Winner - Mesut Özil (Germany)
Top Goal Scorer - Neymar (Brazil)
Golden Glove Winner - Manuel Neuer (Germany)
Best Young player - Neymar (Brazil)
Teams Who Might Surprise Us - France, South Korea
Fifa Fair Play Trophy - Belgium
Where Will England Finish? - I'm not sure England will get out of their group. Even if they do, I don't think they will win a match in the knockout stages.
England's Top Goal Scorer - Daniel Sturridge (England, Bolton Wanderers Academy)
Bonus Ball: I think Germany's final Group G match against the USA will mean something, and I think the USA will push them to the brink in what could be the match of the tournament.