Soccer (or Football) is the most popular and widely played sport in the world, but not in Canada. Canadians would rather throw on some ice skates and pick up a hockey stick as opposed to kicking a ball around. We can’t be blamed however as who really wants to run around in -20 degree weather (it won’t be us).

This definitely means that many of us really have no idea what’s going on when it comes to the World Cup. But that’s okay, we’re here to help. We’ve outlined the top six teams and their key players, so when push comes to shove, you can impress your friends with your Soccer knowledge.

Germany

The 2014 winners seem to have an endless conveyor belt of talent. With the majority of their previous title-winning world cup squad retired from international duty, the Germans are still heavy favourites to retain the World title with one of the youngest squads in the tournament. Known for their counter-attacking style, and smooth transitions from defence to offence, keep your eye on the Germans.

Key Player: Marco Reus (Winger)

Professional Club: Borussia Dortmund (Germany)

Brazil

The South-American powerhouses are fresh off consecutive world cup disappointments, including a 7-1 semi-final defeat to Germany in 2014. With the majority of their team new to international duty, nobody is really sure what to expect. However, keep an eye out for a quick offence spearheaded by the world’s most expensive player Neymar, and star striker Diego Costa.

Key Player: Neymar (Winger)

Professional Club: Paris Saint Germain (France)

Argentina

What should have been a clean sweep of their world cup qualifying pool resulted in Argentina almost missing the tournament if it wasn’t for a 3-2 victory in the World Cup qualifying playoffs. The 2014 runners-up are looking to regain their international notoriety. Although not the best looking squad on paper, with an attack featuring players such as arguably the best player of all time in Lionel Messi, partnered with Paulo Dybala and Gonzalo Higuain, you can expect to see more than enough goals.

Key Player: Lionel Messi (Winger)

Professional Club: FC Barcelona (Spain)

Belgium

Belgium has entered their golden talent generation. A country who hasn’t qualified for that last couple World Cups is now a heavy favourite, with many of their players leading their respected leagues, but seem to not be associated with the Belgian National team. The result is an underrated squad, who could surprise many. With a squad build around ‘strength in depth’ don’t take the Belgians lightly.

Key Player: Eden Hazard (Winger)

Professional Club: Chelsea FC (England)

France

The French are fresh off a defeat in the Euro 2012 final and are looking for a comeback. By far the team with the most depth, there’s really no flaw in this French team.

Key Player: Antoine Griezmann (Striker)

Professional Club: Atletico Madrid (Spain)

Portugal

The Portuguese shocked the world by defeating France on their home-turf in the Euro 2012 final. With a team that doesn’t have much of a chance on paper, Cristiano Ronaldo changes all that. The current world player of the year seems to get better with age and will hope for a grand finale in what is potentially his last World Cup.

Key Player: Cristiano Ronaldo (Winger)

Professional Club: Real Madrid (Spain)

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