http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1582572-power-ranking-the-top-25-2014-world-cup-favorites-based-on-recent-qualifiers

1. South Korea
2. Bosnia-Herzegovina
3. Mexico
4. USA
5. Montenegro
6. Tunisia
7. Chile
8. Nigeria
9. Egypt
10. Japan
11. Croatia
12. England
13. Cote d'Ivoire
14. Uruguay
15. Belgium
16. Colombia
17. France
18. Ecuador
19. Russia
20. Italy
21. Brazil
22. Netherlands
23. Argentina
24. Germany
25. Spain

NOTE:: I didn't make this list. I just copied and pasted the rankings for those who aren't interested or are too lazy to read the whole article.

If Brazil keeps playing the same as recently you can expect them to leave right after group stages, regardless of being hosts. Argentina and Germany have an abundance of talent and a lot to prove, expect them getting to Semifinals unless they run into each other or Spain. Spain always have to take into consideration when we talk about a major cup, if the main squad stays fit, especially Xavi, then you can bet safe money on them. 

Italy and France historically do well in the WC and both teams got a makeover from last WC. Of the both, I think Italy seems a possible Finalist, they did get to the final of Euro beating favorites Germany. 

1. Spain
2. Germany
3. Italy
4. Argentina
5. France

@raimondo: No disrespect to Italy intended, but I don't think lightning would strike twice, against Germany. Italy were hammered by Spain in the final, and only scraped through against England, of all teams. ;)

I just can't see them with a team capable of beating the world's best. As fantastic Pirlo and Buffon continue to be.. upon who else can they base a real WC bid? Balotelli?

Just not seeing it, myself.

That's true but the WC is in a year, in which El Sharaawy and Balo will have time to gel further. Italy have a solid defense (more so than Argentina) so only time will tell how that crop comes along. I can see it being a top team. 

you ruled out portugal too ;)

I've just realized that tiki-taka is right. How is Portugal not in the top 15 contenders? Even though Ronaldo is rather lonely up in attack, he is still the world's second best. And Portugal has a very organized midfield and defense, which they proved against Spain in the EURO. I would replace Ecuador with Portugal.

I think they forgot us. Pretty much tells how low the level of Bleacher Report is.

Doesnt make sense because south korea is ranked too fuckin' high lol 

Belgium is looking scary good lately. This Mirallas guy is looking pretty solid up front. Lukaku is awesome. No one can doubt Kevin de Bruyne's talent. Vermaelen. Hazard. Kompany. Wetzel. Vertonghen. I think they could prove to be heavy contenders next year.