Guest Column

This World Cup is not only the largest-ever staged but also one of the most open I can remember. The gap between the big nations and the sma...

This World Cup is not only the largest-ever staged but also one of the most open I can remember. The gap between the big nations and the smaller ones is closing all the time and there could be some real shocks in France.

There are at least six teams who are at the top of my list to win the World Cup but there are also two or three outsiders capable of providing a shock. Like most people I rate Brazil as favourites but I still think they have a weakness in defence.

Brazil play the football the way I like to see it played. Everyone knows about their skill but they underestimate the athleticism, agility and fitness of the team. These are things we usually associate with the English team but Brazil can match us in that department. My only reservation is that they seem prone to making one or two mistakes at the back and could cost them dear in tight games.

One of the things I learned playing in three World Cup finals is that you can never rule out the Germans. They have the wealth of experience andtheir confidence will have been boosted by winning Euro 8217;96. Italy cannot be ignored either and people are starting to take note of Argentina after some good recent results.

England are also in my top six although I was shocked Glenn Hoddle left Paul Gascoigne out of the squad. For me he was one of the four key players for England along with David Seaman, Tony Adams and Alan Shearer. I would definitely have taken him. You never lose your talent and he still has that special ability needed to win games at the highest level.

France are the final team in my top six and are the only side I have chosen who have never won the World Cup before. Playing at home will be a massive advantage for them. Being familiar with your surroundings can give you an important edge as we proved when England won the World Cup in 1966.

I am sure this World Cup will bring us a few surprises, too. Chile and Nigeria are my tips to produce an upset. Chile gave England a nasty shock when they beat them 2-0 in a friendly at Wembleyand there could be more to come. Looking at their group, both teams could get into the second round and possible even into the last eight.

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Football has never been in better shape. I just hope this World Cup lives up to people8217;s expectations. There are certainly enough star players to make sure it is a great tournament. My only worry is the new rule on the tackle from behind will mean referees sending too many people off. Officials must interpret the rules sensibly so we don8217;t end up playing eight-a-side and ruining the World Cup.

Peter Shilton won 125 caps for England as goalkeeper and played in three World Cup finals