Group A: Brazil and the others

GROUP A: Brazil, Croatia, Mexico, Cameroon

HOW THEY FINISH:
Brazil   3-0 9 PTS
Croatia 1-1-1 4 PTS (advance on Goal Differential)
Mexico 1-1-1 4 PTS
Cameroon 0-3 0 PTS

Brazil are the clear favorites in the group, as only once in World Cup history has the host nation not advanced to the knockout stages. For Croatia, any result today against Brazil would be huge for them. With Mexico and Cameroon not kicking off until the next day, both team will have nearly a full day to make tactical adjustments based on the result. If Brazil were to win, as is expected, Mexico and Cameroon would very likely play safe soccer and be sure to take a point. Knowing that then a win vs Croatia would likely send them through. Ultimately Mexico and Croatia will meet in the final match of group play and the winner will likely advance. Cameroon just doesn't have enough this time around.

Samuel Eto'o responds to Jose Mourinho's "old man" criticism, with a goal
celebration fit for an old man.

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Samuel Eto'o (CAM) - 33 year old former
Chelsea man Samuel Eto'o, will be the key to any success that Cameroon. They are a side with very little experience and not nearly as talented as a few of the other African teams in the tournament.

Guillermo Ochoa (MEX) - In 2006, then 20 Ochoa served as the back-up and looked to be the clear future of goalkeeping for Mexico. Then in 2010 Mexico went with the more experienced veteran in Oscar Perez. Now 28, it should be Ochoa's chance to grab the spotlight. However, there is still question as to whether he will start over another veteran, Jesus Corona.

Gio Dos Santos (MEX) - You can talk about Chicharito all you want, but Dos Santos is Mexico's best field player, he may not score tons of goals but the quick footed playmaker will certainly factor into a few decisions throughout.

Luka Modric (CRO) - The best midfielder in Group A, and one of the best in the World. Modric's coming out party should have been the 2010 World Cup, the 24 year old was set to make a big impact, however a broken leg kept him out. Now he is the leader of a tough Croatia team that will mix experience with youth.


Mario Mandzukic (CRO) - Though Mandzukic will miss Croatia's first match against Brazil, due to this red card in the playoff vs Iceland, Croatia will certainly need him for the Cameroon and Mexico matches. Mario scored 33 goals in 54 matches for Munich over the past two seasons.

All of them (BRA) - Singling out players on Brazil would be to name 8 or 9 guys. Obviously Neymar is the player everyone is looking forward to seeing. The 22 year old has scored 31 goals in 49 games at the full National level. Hulk, Dani Alves, Oscar, David Luiz, Julio Cesar are just a few other names to look for.

GAME OF THE GROUP:

Mexico vs Croatia - this match should likely feature some dynamic football, with both teams going for the win to advance out of the group. Mexico who snuck in to the Cup by the skin of their teeth, could actually have a chance to move on.