France would be my favourite too. Though they often look impressive right up until it matters then they fuck it up. So we'll see.
Brazil should be in the mix. And Germany always are. Belgium have the players, but are yet to show any sign of greatness as a team. Maybe this will be the tournament they finally realised their potential.
To say Messi doesn't carry a team is crazy to me, Argentina would not be in this world cup if it wasn't for him. But yeah, he's not a leader like Ronaldo is. He is introverted on the pitch, he plays his game and ignores anything else going on. But his ability with a football at his feet is unparalleled...the only comparison is Maradona and I think Messi has even surpassed him.
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He listens to voices inside of his mind
Explicit and poisonous violent crime.

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