Because there is a God in Heaven and he loves us, the World Cup will begin in two weeks. My two adult sons and I are separated by a dozen time zones. One of the ways we stay connected is soccer, they played and I was a league official/coach for a dozen years. I am more giddy then usual as it will kick off on my birthday (also, our President's) and conclude on my younger son's birthday. I throw together a five question challenge for the three of us to determine the best football prognosticator. I will share the challenge and my picks. Have fun with it and welcome your predictions/analysis. I would imagine at least the BBC and REE will be broadcasting.
1. Finals match up and who wins?
Belguim 3 Germany 1. The Red Devils not only have players on major squads, they are stars on those squads. If not this year, Belguim will never do it.
2. Semifinal losers.
Spain and Portugal. This could be Spain's last hurrah for a bit.
3. A team that does not score at the World Cup
Iran - their bracket seems overwhelming for them (Spain, Portugal, Morocco)
4. African team with the best finish.
Egypt - I don't believe they are the best African team (Tunisia?) but a healthy Salah could get them to 1-1-1 in their easier pool play.
5. Asian team with the best finish. (Note: Australia participates in the Asian conference).
Japan - I have them in the knock out round, though South Korea may be a better team.
Keep in mind, I have never won my own challenge.