Despite troubling performances by Italy in recent weeks, this is a team that knows how to get it done. Their greatest hurdle will likely be Spain in the quarterfinals. Spain is loaded with weapons, but Italy is battle-tested. At 14-1 odds, Italy is a relative long shot to win the Cup, but the wager just might be worth it.
Brazil will probably face their stiffest competition in the Group Stage fixtures. Likely to face a depleted Netherlands squad in the quarterfinals, and then an even more injury-laden side against England in the semis, Brazil should have a manageable trip to the World Cup Final. Brazil is a 4.5-1 favorite to win the World Cup. Getting there should not be too difficult for the top ranked side in FIFA.
Brazil's stingy defense will shut the door on Italy's dreams of a repeat. This will be a classic rematch of the 1994 World Cup final that saw Brazil raise the Cup in Los Angeles. Different century, different continent, same result; Brazil wins 2-1.
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