World Cup 2014 Preview – Belgium

Belgium may not sound like a sexy name to most casual soccer fans, but don't be shocked if this team makes a deep run this World Cup.

The Belgians are led by Chelsea FC superstar Eden Hazard, one of the best players in the English Premier League, and one of the best players in the world. Hazard is a hazard to most teams he faces (pun definitely intended), simply because of his field awareness and ball control. He rarely makes mistakes, and although he may not be the fastest player on the pitch, he can make up for this lack of speed by his sheer talent and play-making abilities.

Belgium may be led by Hazard, but striker/winger Nacer Chadli could possibly be their most talented player. Chadli, standout player for Tottenham Hotspur in the English Premier League, is an absolute speed demon who can beat just about anyone in the world down the touchline, while possessing a rare ability to put the ball in the net. It is highly recommended to watch Belgium, and more specifically Chadli, if you have a limited knowledge of soccer and want to learn how the game is played while being entertained simultaneously.

And let's not forget some of the other stars on the team, such as Vincent Kompany, Romelu Lukaku, and Marouane Fellaini.

Across the board, the Belgians have the most talented squad in Group H, although the Russians, Algerians, and South Koreans may have something to say about that.

My prediction: Belgium finish 1st in the group, but by the slimmest of margins over Russia.