Group E Analysis

It will be a direct shoot out between the European teams for the top position. Despite the injury-induced absence of Franck Ribery and the snubbing of Samir Nasri, France have the edge, thanks to the presence of established players like Karim Benzema, Bacary Sagna, Olivier Giroud, Raphale Varane, etc. And leading them will be none other than Didier Deschamps, who helped Les Blues to their sole World Cup title at home in 1998. Now, they can forget the wobbly qualifying process.

Switzerland are one of the best managed teams in the world. Their qualifying route was rather easy, but the immaculate nature in which Ottmar Hitzfeld led his wards was exceptional. More so, Die Eidgenossen have beaten some of the top teams since booking their place for Brazil. Replete with footballing history, the new generation of Swiss footballers would hope to once again hit the limelight. Last time they qualified for the quarters, was way back in 1954.

Ecuador, a team of talented players, can fight both the teams. Despite lacking star players, the South Americans play as a cohesive unit during the qualifying stage. In fact, they finished a respectable fourth from South America. The presence of Manchester United winger, Antonio Valencia will be a big boost to the squad.

Unlike other three teams, Honduras will hardly fancy their chances in this tournament. And many believe that they can best finish at four.

Favourite: France

Dark Horse: Ecuador

Teams: Switzerland, Ecuador, France, Honduras