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Five early favorites for the 2018 FIFA World Cup

By Tushar Bahl

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL - JULY 13: Philipp Lahm of Germany lifts the World Cup trophy with teammates after defeating Argentina 1-0 in extra time during the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Final match between Germany and Argentina at Maracana on July 13, 2014 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images)
RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL - JULY 13: Philipp Lahm of Germany lifts the World Cup trophy with teammates after defeating Argentina 1-0 in extra time during the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Final match between Germany and Argentina at Maracana on July 13, 2014 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images) /
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Neymar, Gabriel Jesus and Philippe Coutinho will lead Brazil’s attack next summer /

2. Brazil

The South Americans were the first nation to qualify for the World Cup as the dominated the CONMEBOL qualifying table. Brazil ended up finishing ten points ahead of second placed Uruguay, despite the strong competition in South America, also featuring the likes of Argentina, Colombia, Peru and Chile.

In Tite, Brazil have a head coach who has revitalized the team after the embarrassment they endured at home, four years ago. And their attacking trio of Neymar, Gabriel Jesus and Philippe Coutinho look to be in sensational form. They also have a solid defense, featuring Dani Alves, Thiago Silva, Marquinos and Marcelo.

They also have the added advantage of having a set first XI, which other teams don’t necessarily have. And with so much talent on the bench, Brazil are one of the strongest bets for the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

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