Football World Cup: Which Countries Could Surprise – and Which Are Overrated?

As the largest World Cup tournament ever, with 48 participants and 104 matches, approaches, Der Standard offers its predictions on which teams might exceed expectations and which established nations could falter. The publication focuses on two traditional football powerhouses that it believes will struggle to live up to their reputations.

While giants like Spain, England, France, and Argentina are often considered favorites, Der Standard suggests that some "usual suspects" may not perform as expected this time around. The analysis delves into the factors that might lead to disappointment for these highly-rated teams.

Conversely, the newspaper highlights two potential surprise contenders. It identifies Colombia, with players like Luis Diaz, as having the potential to emerge as unexpected World Cup champions. Der Standard believes these underdogs possess the qualities needed to achieve a significant upset and make a deep run in the tournament.