Think a few to be honest will surprise people and they have already been said:
France
Colombia
Switzerland
Croatia
Belgium (however at the moment everyone is saying they are dark horses so I think people do expect them to do well)
Would be a south American team I would imagine. European teams don't generally win outside of europe.
If they do well it will be Belgium or Swiss. Colombia and Uruguay can do well. I predict 3 south American teams in the semi's and a Brazil v Argentina final.
Wouldn't be massively surprised if France reach the semis. Although it would be brilliant for me to see Switzerland manage to win that group, and that of course should guarantee a surprise team reach the QF between them/Bosnia/Nigeria.
Really rooting for Japan's enterprising style of football, but a few things need to click for them to progress. That would be a success, but if they can somehow then find it in themselves to beat one of Uruguay/Italy/England in the Round of 16, that would be the dream scenario.
Algeria might shock Russia, and progress to the next round whilst playing neat football. They would certainly leave a mark on the tournament.
Chile, Colombia, Croatia and Belgium are expected to do well, but for any of them reaching the semi finals would be an amazing achievement.
Despite thinking this isn't a terribly special French team individually, what they do have is a good spirit, good balance and a fucking piss easy group.
No team with the talent Belgium has should really be considered underdogs but they have to walk the walk now.
Russia would be more worthy of dark horse status, but not sure they will handle the conditions, but should clear the group stage.
Croatia have a very good team, but Kovac's insistence on playing a 442 - though he calls in a 4231 - often isn't always maximising what they have.
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