2010 FIFA World Cup: Four Teams Poised to Win

Now the World Cup teams have played one match, clear favorites are starting to emerge. Some teams aren't living up to their potential and some are vastly exceeding it, but these four are on the right path to be the 2010 World Cup Champions.

1. Germany

Before the World Cup started, many thought Germany would win their group stage, but not go far in the knockout stage. Many will have changed their minds.  Germany destroyed Australia 4-0 in their first match and looked very good doing it. 

They had nine shots on goal, so there were lots of chances to score. They looked strong on defense with noone getting a yellow card. The forwards looked great effortlessly moving the ball around with Lukas Podolski spearheading the attack.

This performance put Germany in contention for the World Cup. They should defeat Serbia and Ghana and will likely play the United States after that. If consistent throughout, they could win the tournament.

2. Netherlands

The Netherlands were one of the favorites going into the World Cup and showed why in their first game with a 2-0 win over Denmark.  A brilliant goal by Dirk Kyut towards the end confirmed his stamina and determination. 

What makes the Netherlands so dangerous is that their star, Arjen Robben, is still out with an injury. His return will give them an excellent striker and more goals. 

The Netherlands should win their group and most likely play Paraguay, a team they should easily beat.  After that, there's a good chance they'll be in the final.

3. Portugal

Portugal looked good, though they had a tough draw against Ivory Coast in their first match.  It was physical and the team played hard throughout, nearly scoring on a number of occasions.  The Ivory Coast are a very tough team and besides Brazil, they won't face a tougher team. 

The entire team revolves around their superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, who must begin to play at the expected level. If he gets forward support from Danny, Portugal can accomplish anything.

It is unlikely that they will win their group but if they finish second they'll likely face Spain, who they can beat.  After that, they could reach the finals.

4. Spain

Despite their shock 1-0 loss to Switzerland in their first match, it's not over for Spain.  They dominated the match and the goal they gave away was not from poor defending.  They won the possession battle by a huge margin and out passed the Swiss team.  They looked strong in defeat and should be able to top their group. 

However, they have to get Fernando Torres into the starting lineup because he adds great scoring ability.  They also need to have Jesus Navas in the starting lineup to set up the crosses into the box for the Spanish strikers. 

If they win their group they'll face the second place team of the group of death.  If victorious the World Cup could be theirs.