10 Bold Predictions for the 2018 World Cup

By Johnnie Dowling

10 Bold Predictions For the 2018 World Cup

Germany World Cup — Unfortunately for all lovers of football, the 2014 World Cup in Brazil finished on Sunday. However, there is no need to cry, as the World Cup in Russia is only four years away, and there is plenty to be excited about, like these bold predictions.

10. Russia Makes the Semifinals

Russia

10. Russia Makes the Semifinals

Russia — After an incredibly disappointing World Cup for the Russians, they have plenty to look forward to. The World Cup in 2018 will all be at home for them, giving the Russian National Team a huge chance. The Semifinals could be a possibility.

9. Fewer Goals Than In Brazil 2014

Schurrle V Brazil

9. Fewer Goals Than In Brazil 2014

Schurrle V Brazil — The 2014 World Cup was a goal fest -- 171 goals were scored in Brazil, which is 26 more than in South Africa in 2010. Expect the numbers to drop back down to the 2010 range for the World Cup in Russia.

8. Better Performances From African Nations

Nigeria V France

8. Better Performances From African Nations

Nigeria V France — Most African teams experienced a disappointing World Cup in Brazil, with Nigeria doing the best, making it to the Round of 16. Countries like Ivory Coast and Ghana will be keen to do much better in Russia, so expect an improvement.

7. Hugo Lloris To Win The Golden Glove

Hugo Lloris

7. Hugo Lloris To Win The Golden Glove

Hugo Lloris — The 2014 recipient was Manuel Neuer. However, France will be keen to grow on their decent World Cup, and with a strong defense in front of him, Hugo Lloris is set for a better World Cup next time around.

6. Hazard To Win The Golden Ball

Eden Hazard

6. Hazard To Win The Golden Ball

Eden Hazard — Hazard has been fantastic in the Premier League for two years now. Although he didn't have a very good World Cup, his improvement from now to 2018 will make him one of the best in the world.

5. England To Make The Semifinals

England World Cup

5. England To Make The Semifinals

England World Cup — England had a World Cup from hell. They picked up only one point, but the team fielded against Costa Rica was filled with youth and promise for the future. In 2018, they will have a whole new side that could challenge for the No. 1 place, but should make it to the Semifinals.

4. All European Final

Germany World Champions

4. All European Final

Germany World Champions — Europe outperformed South America in their own back yard, finishing first and third. With home advantage on Europe's side in 2018, there is a possibility of an all-European Final. Especially as the likes of Germany, Italy, Spain, England, Holland, Belgium and Russia are competing, and South America are going to find it hard to play in the cold.

3. Muller To Become All-Time Top Goalscorer

Thomas Muller World Cup

3. Muller To Become All-Time Top Goalscorer

Thomas Muller World Cup — Muller would need seven goals to break the record of 16 World Cup goals set by teammate Miroslav Klose at the Brazil World Cup. There is no doubt he will eventually do it, as at the age of 24, Muller has at least two World Cups left to play in. However, can he break the record in Russia?

2. USA Will Have Another Good Run

Jurgen Klinnsman

2. USA Will Have Another Good Run

Jurgen Klinnsman — With soccer growing rapidly in the U.S., so is the success of the National Team. It is no coincidence, more people are playing and better players are being produced. The growing popularity of MLS and the increased investment into the sport also are factors. I see this rise continuing in 2018.

1. Germany Will Win It Again

Germany World Champions

1. Germany Will Win It Again

Germany World Champions — I have gone through the reasons the Germans will do it again. It has only happened once before, but if anyone can do it, it's this German side.

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