The poster of the upcoming film Project K, which stars Kamal Haasan, Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, Deepika Padukone and Disha Patani, recently graced the iconic billboards of Times Square in New York City.

The display serves as a precursor to the preview of the film at San Diego Comic-Con on July 20. The film is one of the highly-anticipated projects in India owing to its illustrious star cast.

Produced by Vyjayanthi Movies, Project K&nbsp;has been directed by Nag Ashwin. It is an epic science fiction film set in the future.

The film is reportedly being made on a budget of Rs 600 crore, making it one of the most expensive Indian films ever made.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-study-finds-how-dietary-restraint-reduces-effects-of-genetic-risk-of-obesity-616547">Study finds how dietary restraint reduces effects of genetic risk of obesity</a>

The film's music score is composed by Santhosh Narayanan with cinematography by Djordje Stojiljkovic and production design by Nitin Zihani Choudhary.

The film was announced in February 2020 coinciding with the 50th anniversary of Vyjayanthi Movies. However, the production was delayed by a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The film also marks Deepika's debut in the Telugu film industry.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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England have appeared in 14 World Cups, including the last five. Their best performance was 1966

The poster of the upcoming film Project K, which stars Kamal Haasan, Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, Deepika Padukone and Disha Patani, recently graced the iconic billboards of Times Square in New York City. The display serves as a precursor to the preview of the film at San Diego Comic-Con on July 20. The film is one of the highly-anticipated projects in India owing to its illustrious star cast. Produced by Vyjayanthi Movies, Project K has been directed by Nag Ashwin. It is an epic science fiction film set in the future. The film is reportedly being made on a budget of Rs 600 crore, making it one of the most expensive Indian films ever made. Also read: Study finds how dietary restraint reduces effects of genetic risk of obesity The film's music score is composed by Santhosh Narayanan with cinematography by Djordje Stojiljkovic and production design by Nitin Zihani Choudhary. The film was announced in February 2020 coinciding with the 50th anniversary of Vyjayanthi Movies. However, the production was delayed by a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The film also marks Deepika's debut in the Telugu film industry. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

FIFA World Cup 2018: A complete profile of England

Colombia are playing in their fifth World Cup, with their quarter-final appearance at Brazil 2014 -- where they lost to the hosts -- their best performance. The Andean country is best remembered for its 1990s team featuring characters such as eccentric goalkeeper Rene Higuita and blond-locked Carlos Valderrama.

<hr />
Coach: Jose Pekerman

The silver-haired Argentine has led Colombia since 2012, pulling the "cafeteros" (coffee-makers) out of a lean period and propelling them to their first consecutive World Cups. He put faith in the talented squad's attacking instincts and most notably in striker Radamel Falcao. Pekerman, 68, also had a two-year stint as coach of the Argentina team that went to the 2006 World Cup but lost to hosts Germany in the quarter-finals. He has a close link to Colombia, however, having played half his career as a midfielder for Independiente Medellin.

<hr />
Key players:

James Rodriguez: Fresh from clinching a sixth successive Bundesliga title with Bayern Munich, the 26-year-old Rodriguez will be hoping to keep up his winning streak in Russia. "Hamez," as his adoring Colombian fans pronounce his first name, was top scorer at the 2014 World Cup and won over many in the public with his dazzling goals and dancing celebrations. There is much more pressure on the left-footed midfielder this time around, however, but 'James-mania' may well strike again.

Radamel Falcao: Monaco striker Radamel Falcao, 32, missed out on the 2014 World Cup due to a ligament injury. But "El Tigre" (The Tiger) is planning to roar back in Russia and has confessed to daydreaming about the goals he wants to score for the canary-yellow team.

Juan Cuadrado: The Juventus winger is feared for his fierce counter-attacks and goals from near-impossible angles. Cuadrado, 29, was unable to play for Juve for three months due to a groin injury but when he returned against AC Milan in March, he scored barely 15 minutes in to set his side on the way to a 3-1 win.

<hr />
Form guide:

Colombia had a disappointing qualifying campaign but their attacking prowess and ability to turn games has been on display since. Trailing 2-0 in a friendly against France in March, they clawed back to beat "Les Bleus" 3-2 at the Stade de France. But Colombia were unable to beat Australia a few days later in a goalless draw that highlighted the South American team's sometimes erratic form.

How they qualified:

Colombia did just enough to secure the fourth spot in the South American group but they scored only 21 goals and limped over the line with three draws and a defeat in their final four games. Pekerman fielded 45 players in their 18-match qualifying campaign as he struggled to find the right formula to overcome an unexpected shortage of goals in a team brimming with top forwards.

<hr />
Prospects:

With a formidable attack and a relatively manageable group, Colombia are highly competitive. Group H, where Colombia will face Japan, Senegal, and Poland, is the only one to lack a World Cup winner and should provide opportunities for the South Americans to rack up a few goals.

<hr />
Colombia's fixture:

June 19

05:30 PM | Colombia vs Japan | Mordovia Arena, Saransk

June 24

11:30 PM | Poland vs Colombia | Kazan Arena, Kazan

June 28

07:30 PM | Senegal vs Colombia | Cosmos Arena, Samar&nbsp

<hr />
Squad:

Goalkeepers: David Ospina (Arsenal/ENG), Camilo Vargas (Deportivo Cali), Ivan Arboleda (Banfield/ARG), Jose Fernando Cuadrado (Once Caldas)

Defenders: Yerri Mina (Barcelona/ESP), Santiago Arias (PSV Eindhoven/NED), Davinson Sanchez (Tottenham/ENG), Santiago Arias (PSV Eindhoven/NED), Farid Diaz (Olimpia/PAR), Bernardo Espinoza (Girona/ESP), Frank Fabra (Boca Juniors/ARG), Stefan Medina (Monterrey/MEX), Johan Mojica (Girona/ESP), Oscar Murillo (Pachuca/MEX), William Tesillo (Leon/MEX), Cristián Zapata (Milan/ITA)

Midfielders: James Rodríguez (Bayern Múnich/GER), Juan Fernando Quintero (River Plate/ARG), Abel Aguilar (Deportivo Cali), Wilmar Barrios (Boca Juniors/ARG), Edwin Cardona (Boca Juniors/ARG), Yimmi Charrá (Junior), Juan Guillermo Cuadrado (Juventus/ITA), Gustavo Cuellar (Flamengo/BRA), Jefferson Lima (Levante/ESP), Giovanni Moreno (Shangai Shenhua/CHN), Sebastián Pérez (Boca Juniors/ARG), Carlos Sanchez (Espanyol/ESP), Mateús Uribe (América/MEX)

Forwards: Radamel Falcao García (Mónaco/FRA), Carlos Bacca (Villareal/ESP), Luis Fernando Muriel (Sevilla/ESP), Miguel Borja (Palmeiras/BRA), Teófilo Gutierrez (Junior), Jose Heriberto Izquierdo (Brighton/ENG), Duván Zapata (Sampdoria/ITA)

<img alt="fifa 2018 Russia.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/sports/fifa%202018%20Russia.jpg" width="770" />

Colombia are playing in their fifth World Cup, with their quarter-final appearance at Brazil 2014 -- where they lost to the hosts -- their best performance

Colombia are playing in their fifth World Cup, with their quarter-final appearance at Brazil 2014 -- where they lost to the hosts -- their best performance. The Andean country is best remembered for its 1990s team featuring characters such as eccentric goalkeeper Rene Higuita and blond-locked Carlos Valderrama. Coach: Jose Pekerman The silver-haired Argentine has led Colombia since 2012, pulling the "cafeteros" (coffee-makers) out of a lean period and propelling them to their first consecutive World Cups. He put faith in the talented squad's attacking instincts and most notably in striker Radamel Falcao. Pekerman, 68, also had a two-year stint as coach of the Argentina team that went to the 2006 World Cup but lost to hosts Germany in the quarter-finals. He has a close link to Colombia, however, having played half his career as a midfielder for Independiente Medellin. Key players: James Rodriguez: Fresh from clinching a sixth successive Bundesliga title with Bayern Munich, the 26-year-old Rodriguez will be hoping to keep up his winning streak in Russia. "Hamez," as his adoring Colombian fans pronounce his first name, was top scorer at the 2014 World Cup and won over many in the public with his dazzling goals and dancing celebrations. There is much more pressure on the left-footed midfielder this time around, however, but 'James-mania' may well strike again. Radamel Falcao: Monaco striker Radamel Falcao, 32, missed out on the 2014 World Cup due to a ligament injury. But "El Tigre" (The Tiger) is planning to roar back in Russia and has confessed to daydreaming about the goals he wants to score for the canary-yellow team. Juan Cuadrado: The Juventus winger is feared for his fierce counter-attacks and goals from near-impossible angles. Cuadrado, 29, was unable to play for Juve for three months due to a groin injury but when he returned against AC Milan in March, he scored barely 15 minutes in to set his side on the way to a 3-1 win. Form guide: Colombia had a disappointing qualifying campaign but their attacking prowess and ability to turn games has been on display since. Trailing 2-0 in a friendly against France in March, they clawed back to beat "Les Bleus" 3-2 at the Stade de France. But Colombia were unable to beat Australia a few days later in a goalless draw that highlighted the South American team's sometimes erratic form. How they qualified: Colombia did just enough to secure the fourth spot in the South American group but they scored only 21 goals and limped over the line with three draws and a defeat in their final four games. Pekerman fielded 45 players in their 18-match qualifying campaign as he struggled to find the right formula to overcome an unexpected shortage of goals in a team brimming with top forwards. Prospects: With a formidable attack and a relatively manageable group, Colombia are highly competitive. Group H, where Colombia will face Japan, Senegal, and Poland, is the only one to lack a World Cup winner and should provide opportunities for the South Americans to rack up a few goals. Colombia's fixture: June 19 05:30 PM | Colombia vs Japan | Mordovia Arena, Saransk June 24 11:30 PM | Poland vs Colombia | Kazan Arena, Kazan June 28 07:30 PM | Senegal vs Colombia | Cosmos Arena, Samar Squad: Goalkeepers: David Ospina (Arsenal/ENG), Camilo Vargas (Deportivo Cali), Ivan Arboleda (Banfield/ARG), Jose Fernando Cuadrado (Once Caldas) Defenders: Yerri Mina (Barcelona/ESP), Santiago Arias (PSV Eindhoven/NED), Davinson Sanchez (Tottenham/ENG), Santiago Arias (PSV Eindhoven/NED), Farid Diaz (Olimpia/PAR), Bernardo Espinoza (Girona/ESP), Frank Fabra (Boca Juniors/ARG), Stefan Medina (Monterrey/MEX), Johan Mojica (Girona/ESP), Oscar Murillo (Pachuca/MEX), William Tesillo (Leon/MEX), Cristián Zapata (Milan/ITA) Midfielders: James Rodríguez (Bayern Múnich/GER), Juan Fernando Quintero (River Plate/ARG), Abel Aguilar (Deportivo Cali), Wilmar Barrios (Boca Juniors/ARG), Edwin Cardona (Boca Juniors/ARG), Yimmi Charrá (Junior), Juan Guillermo Cuadrado (Juventus/ITA), Gustavo Cuellar (Flamengo/BRA), Jefferson Lima (Levante/ESP), Giovanni Moreno (Shangai Shenhua/CHN), Sebastián Pérez (Boca Juniors/ARG), Carlos Sanchez (Espanyol/ESP), Mateús Uribe (América/MEX) Forwards: Radamel Falcao García (Mónaco/FRA), Carlos Bacca (Villareal/ESP), Luis Fernando Muriel (Sevilla/ESP), Miguel Borja (Palmeiras/BRA), Teófilo Gutierrez (Junior), Jose Heriberto Izquierdo (Brighton/ENG), Duván Zapata (Sampdoria/ITA)

FIFA World Cup 2018: A complete profile of Colombia

Portugal will be appearing at their eighth World Cup and sixth in a row. Their best performance was on their debut in 1966 when they finished third after losing to England in the semi-finals and they reached the semi-finals in 2006 before losing to France. They went out in the group stage in 2002 and 2014 and lost to Spain in the round of 16 in 2010.

<hr />
Coach:

Fernando Santos: The 63-year-old is a former defender who played for Estoril and Maritimo. After retiring, he intended to pursue a career in electrical engineering, in which he is qualified, but a twist of fate took him into coaching. He has managed all of Portugal's big three, Benfica, Porto and Sporting, and led Greece to Euro 2012 and the 2014 World Cup. He replaced Paulo Bento after Portugal lost their opening Euro 2016 qualifier at home to Albania, led them to the Euro 2016 title and has lost only once in 29 competitive internationals.

<hr />
Key players:

Cristiano Ronaldo: Portugal's captain, most capped player, and all-time leading scorer remain, at the age of 33, a fundamental presence for Portugal -- even when not playing, as he showed by encouraging the team from the touchline during the Euro 2016 final.

Some feel his habit of hogging free kicks and penalties is not healthy and that his presence is a burden for his teammates, but his record of 81 goals in 149 games speaks for itself.

Pepe: The linchpin of the defence for the best part of a decade although his rash tackles, explosive fits of temper and liberal use of gamesmanship make him many people's pantomime villain.

He let down the team when he was sent off in the first half of the 4-0 defeat by Germany in the 2014 World Cup but held the back line together magnificently in the Euro 2016 final against France. Born in Brazil and moved to Portugal as an 18-year-old.

William Carvalho: Known as "Sir William" by fans of his club Sporting, Carvalho was born in Angola and moved to Portugal as a child.

Physically imposing, he forms a defensive wall in front of the Portugal defence and is remarkably calm in possession, providing excellent distribution, though he sometimes looks cumbersome and slow.

<hr />
Form guide:

Portugal have won their last nine competitive internationals although their form in friendlies since qualifying has been more erratic, with two wins, a draw and an embarrassing 3-0 defeat by the Netherlands.

How they qualified:

Portugal topped their group on goal difference ahead of Switzerland. After losing to the Swiss in their opening match, they won their remaining nine fixtures.

<hr />
Prospects:

Along with neighbours Spain, Portugal appear to be favourites to progress from Group B which also contains Morocco and Iran. But facing Spain in their opener could complicate things as defeat would leave them playing catch-up. Their second match against Morocco will stir unhappy memories of a 3-1 defeat by the North Africans at the 1986 finals while the Iran match brings them face to face with their former coach Carlos Queiroz. Russia, Egypt, Uruguay or Saudi Arabia await in the second round while France and Argentina are among possible quarter-final opponents.

<hr />
Portugal's fixture

June 15

11:30 PM | Portugal vs Spain | Fisht Olympic Stadium, Sochi

June 20

05:30 PM | Portugal vs Morocco | Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow

June 25

11:30 PM | Iran vs Portugal | Mordovia Arena, Saransk

<hr />
Squad:

Goalkeepers: Anthony Lopes (Lyon/FRA), Beto (Goztepe/TUR), Rui Patricio (Sporting Lisbon)

Defenders: Bruno Alves (Rangers/SCO), Cedric Soares (Southampton/ENG), Jose Fonte (Dalian Yifang/CHI), Mario Rui (Napoli/ITA), Pepe (Besiktas/TUR), Raphael Guerreiro (Borussia Dortmund/GER), Ricardo Pereira (Porto), Ruben Dias (Benfica)

Midfielders: Adrien Silva (Leicester/ENG), Bruno Fernandes (Sporting Lisbon), Joao Mario (West Ham/ENG), Joao Moutinho (Monaco/FRA), Manuel Fernandes (Lokomotiv Moscow/RUS), William Carvalho (Sporting Lisbon)

Forwards: Andre Silva (AC Milan/ITA), Bernardo Silva (Manchester City/ENG), Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid/ESP), Gelson Martins (Sporting Lisbon), Goncalo Guedes (Valencia/ESP), Ricardo Quaresma (Besiktas/TUR)

<img alt="fifa 2018 Russia_0.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/sports/fifa%202018%20Russia_0.jpg" width="770" />

Portugal will be appearing at their eighth World Cup and sixth in a row

Portugal will be appearing at their eighth World Cup and sixth in a row. Their best performance was on their debut in 1966 when they finished third after losing to England in the semi-finals and they reached the semi-finals in 2006 before losing to France. They went out in the group stage in 2002 and 2014 and lost to Spain in the round of 16 in 2010. Coach: Fernando Santos: The 63-year-old is a former defender who played for Estoril and Maritimo. After retiring, he intended to pursue a career in electrical engineering, in which he is qualified, but a twist of fate took him into coaching. He has managed all of Portugal's big three, Benfica, Porto and Sporting, and led Greece to Euro 2012 and the 2014 World Cup. He replaced Paulo Bento after Portugal lost their opening Euro 2016 qualifier at home to Albania, led them to the Euro 2016 title and has lost only once in 29 competitive internationals. Key players: Cristiano Ronaldo: Portugal's captain, most capped player, and all-time leading scorer remain, at the age of 33, a fundamental presence for Portugal -- even when not playing, as he showed by encouraging the team from the touchline during the Euro 2016 final. Some feel his habit of hogging free kicks and penalties is not healthy and that his presence is a burden for his teammates, but his record of 81 goals in 149 games speaks for itself. Pepe: The linchpin of the defence for the best part of a decade although his rash tackles, explosive fits of temper and liberal use of gamesmanship make him many people's pantomime villain. He let down the team when he was sent off in the first half of the 4-0 defeat by Germany in the 2014 World Cup but held the back line together magnificently in the Euro 2016 final against France. Born in Brazil and moved to Portugal as an 18-year-old. William Carvalho: Known as "Sir William" by fans of his club Sporting, Carvalho was born in Angola and moved to Portugal as a child. Physically imposing, he forms a defensive wall in front of the Portugal defence and is remarkably calm in possession, providing excellent distribution, though he sometimes looks cumbersome and slow. Form guide: Portugal have won their last nine competitive internationals although their form in friendlies since qualifying has been more erratic, with two wins, a draw and an embarrassing 3-0 defeat by the Netherlands. How they qualified: Portugal topped their group on goal difference ahead of Switzerland. After losing to the Swiss in their opening match, they won their remaining nine fixtures. Prospects: Along with neighbours Spain, Portugal appear to be favourites to progress from Group B which also contains Morocco and Iran. But facing Spain in their opener could complicate things as defeat would leave them playing catch-up. Their second match against Morocco will stir unhappy memories of a 3-1 defeat by the North Africans at the 1986 finals while the Iran match brings them face to face with their former coach Carlos Queiroz. Russia, Egypt, Uruguay or Saudi Arabia await in the second round while France and Argentina are among possible quarter-final opponents. Portugal's fixture June 15 11:30 PM | Portugal vs Spain | Fisht Olympic Stadium, Sochi June 20 05:30 PM | Portugal vs Morocco | Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow June 25 11:30 PM | Iran vs Portugal | Mordovia Arena, Saransk Squad: Goalkeepers: Anthony Lopes (Lyon/FRA), Beto (Goztepe/TUR), Rui Patricio (Sporting Lisbon) Defenders: Bruno Alves (Rangers/SCO), Cedric Soares (Southampton/ENG), Jose Fonte (Dalian Yifang/CHI), Mario Rui (Napoli/ITA), Pepe (Besiktas/TUR), Raphael Guerreiro (Borussia Dortmund/GER), Ricardo Pereira (Porto), Ruben Dias (Benfica) Midfielders: Adrien Silva (Leicester/ENG), Bruno Fernandes (Sporting Lisbon), Joao Mario (West Ham/ENG), Joao Moutinho (Monaco/FRA), Manuel Fernandes (Lokomotiv Moscow/RUS), William Carvalho (Sporting Lisbon) Forwards: Andre Silva (AC Milan/ITA), Bernardo Silva (Manchester City/ENG), Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid/ESP), Gelson Martins (Sporting Lisbon), Goncalo Guedes (Valencia/ESP), Ricardo Quaresma (Besiktas/TUR)

FIFA World Cup 2018: A complete profile of Portugal

Spain have played in 14 World Cups and qualified for every edition since 1978. They have won it once, beating the Netherlands 1-0 in the 2010 final in South Africa with an extra-time strike from Andres Iniesta.

Before then they had reached the quarter-finals in 1934, 1986, 1994 and 2002 but lost every time. As holders they suffered a shock elimination from the group stage in 2014.

<hr />
Coach: Julen Lopetegui

Former goalkeeper Lopetegui spent most of his career with Logrones and Rayo Vallecano and had brief stints at Real Madrid and Barcelona. He made one appearance for Spain and was an unused substitute at the 1994 World Cup.

He coached Rayo Vallecano and Real Madrid's reserve team before going into Spain's youth team set-up, leading the under-21 team to glory at the 2013 European Championship with a side containing future first teamers Isco, Koke and David de Gea.

After being sacked following a trophy-less 18 months at FC Porto he was named Vicente del Bosque's successor in July 2016. He has rejuvenated the squad with many of his former charges from the under-21 side and helped them to recover their attacking flair, refocusing on a possession-based style of play but making them faster and more dangerous on the counter-attack.

<hr />
Key players:

Isco: Lopetegui knows how to get the best out of the Real Madrid playmaker. He can play across midfield, behind the striker or even as a deep-lying centre-forward and ran riot in impressive wins over Italy and Argentina.

Andres Iniesta: The Barcelona veteran has conducted Spain's all-powerful midfield for more than a decade and was the heartbeat of their world dominance between 2008 and 2012. Still, as masterful on the ball as ever at 34 years of age, he will be looking for one last hurrah in Russia before quitting international football and leaving Barca.

Sergio Ramos: The centre-back and captain has developed a win-at-all-costs mentality and knows exactly how to manage the biggest games. An unforgiving opponent for attackers due to his physical presence and never-say-die attitude, Ramos's experience of four Champions League finals with Real Madrid and five major tournaments will be vital to Spain's hopes.

<hr />
Form guide:

Spain have not lost since their Euro 2016 last-16 defeat to Italy and have won 13 out of 18 games with Lopetegui, drawing five. They comprehensively beat France and Belgium in international friendlies and proved their credentials by ripping apart Argentina 6-1 in their last outing.

How they qualified:

Spain breezed their way through qualifying by winning every game aside from a 1-1 draw away to Italy, whom they outclassed 3-0 at home to finish above them and top of their group, scoring 36 goals in 10 games.

<hr />
Prospects:

Spain will face a testing opener against European champions Portugal which is likely to determine whether they finish top of Group B, which also contains Iran and Morocco.

If they win the group they are likely to face either Uruguay or Egypt in the last 16, with a possible quarter-final against Argentina, Croatia or France coming next.

Given the talent in the squad and their form under Lopetegui, a semi-final appearance should be the minimal target, although they will feel confident they can go all the way.

<hr />
Spains's fixture:

June 15

11:30 PM | Portugal vs Spain | Fisht Olympic Stadium, Sochi

June 20

11:30 PM | Iran vs Spain | Kazan Arena, Kazan

June 25

11:30 PM | Spain vs Morocco | Kaliningrad Stadium, Kaliningrad

<hr />
Squad:

Goalkeepers: David De Gea (Manchester United/ENG), Pepe Reina (Napoli/ITA), Kepa Arrizabalaga (Athletic Bilbao/ESP)

Defenders: Jordi Alba (Barcelona/ESP), Cesar Azpilicueta (Chelsea/ENG), Nacho Monreal (Arsenal/ENG), Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid/ESP), Nacho Fernandez (Real Madrid/ESP), Gerard Pique (Barcelona/ESP), Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid/ESP), Alvaro Odriozola (Real Sociedad/ESP)

Midfielders: Thiago Alcantara (Bayern Munich/GER), Sergio Busquets (Barcelona/ESP), Andres Iniesta (Barcelona/ESP), Koke (Atletico Madrid/ESP), Saul Niguez (Atletico Madrid/ESP), Marco Asensio (Real Madrid/ESP), David Silva (Manchester City/ENG), Lucas Vazquez (Real Madrid/ESP), Isco (Real Madrid/ESP)

Forwards: Iago Aspas (Celta Vigo/ESP), Rodrigo (Valencia/ESP), Diego Costa (Atletico Madrid/ESP)

<img alt="fifa 2018 Russia.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/sports/fifa%202018%20Russia.jpg" width="770" />

Spain have played in 14 World Cups and qualified for every edition since 1978. They have won it once, beating the Netherlands 1-0 in the 2010

Spain have played in 14 World Cups and qualified for every edition since 1978. They have won it once, beating the Netherlands 1-0 in the 2010 final in South Africa with an extra-time strike from Andres Iniesta. Before then they had reached the quarter-finals in 1934, 1986, 1994 and 2002 but lost every time. As holders they suffered a shock elimination from the group stage in 2014. Coach: Julen Lopetegui Former goalkeeper Lopetegui spent most of his career with Logrones and Rayo Vallecano and had brief stints at Real Madrid and Barcelona. He made one appearance for Spain and was an unused substitute at the 1994 World Cup. He coached Rayo Vallecano and Real Madrid's reserve team before going into Spain's youth team set-up, leading the under-21 team to glory at the 2013 European Championship with a side containing future first teamers Isco, Koke and David de Gea. After being sacked following a trophy-less 18 months at FC Porto he was named Vicente del Bosque's successor in July 2016. He has rejuvenated the squad with many of his former charges from the under-21 side and helped them to recover their attacking flair, refocusing on a possession-based style of play but making them faster and more dangerous on the counter-attack. Key players: Isco: Lopetegui knows how to get the best out of the Real Madrid playmaker. He can play across midfield, behind the striker or even as a deep-lying centre-forward and ran riot in impressive wins over Italy and Argentina. Andres Iniesta: The Barcelona veteran has conducted Spain's all-powerful midfield for more than a decade and was the heartbeat of their world dominance between 2008 and 2012. Still, as masterful on the ball as ever at 34 years of age, he will be looking for one last hurrah in Russia before quitting international football and leaving Barca. Sergio Ramos: The centre-back and captain has developed a win-at-all-costs mentality and knows exactly how to manage the biggest games. An unforgiving opponent for attackers due to his physical presence and never-say-die attitude, Ramos's experience of four Champions League finals with Real Madrid and five major tournaments will be vital to Spain's hopes. Form guide: Spain have not lost since their Euro 2016 last-16 defeat to Italy and have won 13 out of 18 games with Lopetegui, drawing five. They comprehensively beat France and Belgium in international friendlies and proved their credentials by ripping apart Argentina 6-1 in their last outing. How they qualified: Spain breezed their way through qualifying by winning every game aside from a 1-1 draw away to Italy, whom they outclassed 3-0 at home to finish above them and top of their group, scoring 36 goals in 10 games. Prospects: Spain will face a testing opener against European champions Portugal which is likely to determine whether they finish top of Group B, which also contains Iran and Morocco. If they win the group they are likely to face either Uruguay or Egypt in the last 16, with a possible quarter-final against Argentina, Croatia or France coming next. Given the talent in the squad and their form under Lopetegui, a semi-final appearance should be the minimal target, although they will feel confident they can go all the way. Spains's fixture: June 15 11:30 PM | Portugal vs Spain | Fisht Olympic Stadium, Sochi June 20 11:30 PM | Iran vs Spain | Kazan Arena, Kazan June 25 11:30 PM | Spain vs Morocco | Kaliningrad Stadium, Kaliningrad Squad: Goalkeepers: David De Gea (Manchester United/ENG), Pepe Reina (Napoli/ITA), Kepa Arrizabalaga (Athletic Bilbao/ESP) Defenders: Jordi Alba (Barcelona/ESP), Cesar Azpilicueta (Chelsea/ENG), Nacho Monreal (Arsenal/ENG), Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid/ESP), Nacho Fernandez (Real Madrid/ESP), Gerard Pique (Barcelona/ESP), Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid/ESP), Alvaro Odriozola (Real Sociedad/ESP) Midfielders: Thiago Alcantara (Bayern Munich/GER), Sergio Busquets (Barcelona/ESP), Andres Iniesta (Barcelona/ESP), Koke (Atletico Madrid/ESP), Saul Niguez (Atletico Madrid/ESP), Marco Asensio (Real Madrid/ESP), David Silva (Manchester City/ENG), Lucas Vazquez (Real Madrid/ESP), Isco (Real Madrid/ESP) Forwards: Iago Aspas (Celta Vigo/ESP), Rodrigo (Valencia/ESP), Diego Costa (Atletico Madrid/ESP)

FIFA World Cup 2018: A complete profile of Spain

Belgium have appeared in 12 World Cups, with their qualification for the 2014 edition in Brazil coming after a gap of 12 years. The Red Devils lost to Argentina in the quarter-finals in Brazil and their best performance remains their semi-final appearance in 1986 when they fell to the eventual champions, also Argentina.

<hr />
Coach: Roberto Martinez:&nbsp

The 44-year-old Spaniard was a surprise successor to Marc Wilmots, who was dismissed after Belgium lost to Wales in the Euro 2016 quarter-finals. Martinez was then himself out of work after being sacked by Everton following a frustrating season in which they finished 11th in the Premier League. The former Swansea City manager, however, led unfancied Wigan Athletic to their only FA Cup victory in 2013 when the club beat Manchester City in the final. Under him Belgium cruised to the top of their qualifying group for Russia with an unbeaten record, becoming the first European nation to secure their spot for the 2018 finals.

<hr />
Key players:

Kevin de Bruyne: The 26-year-old Manchester City midfielder has been the driving force in Pep Guardiola's record-breaking side. De Bruyne's work rate and ability to produce a procession of pinpoint passes took City to a new level, leaving all other title aspirants lagging way behind.

Eden Hazard: The Chelsea playmaker had a similar impact in Chelsea's Premier League-winning campaign a year ago, much like De Bruyne's this time around. Hazard's dribbling and movement, on and off the ball, constantly pose questions for defenders and the 27-year-old can carve through the toughest of defences when in form.

Romelu Lukaku:&nbspThe 24-year-old striker, who joined Manchester United at the beginning of the season, is a proven goalscorer with more than 100 strikes in the Premier League and is already Belgium's all-time top scorer with 33. With a dazzling midfield featuring De Bruyne and Hazard, Belgium will depend heavily on Lukaku to find the net.

<hr />
Form guide:

After drawing 3-3 against Mexico in Brussels last November, Roberto Martinez's side went on to beat Japan 1-0 four days later and then picked up a confidence-boosting 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia towards the end of March. They will play three more warm-up matches in June before kicking off their World Cup campaign against Panama on June 18.

How they qualified: The Red Devils cruised through their qualification group, becoming the first European nation to secure their spot for the finals in Russia. Belgium finished as Group H winners, with nine wins and a draw, scoring 43 goals in the process.

<hr />
Prospects:

Like four years ago in Brazil, Belgium will once again arrive on the world stage in Russia replete with talent who ply their trade in top leagues across Europe. They showed what they are capable of during World Cup qualification. While few doubt their attacking prowess, the jury is still out on their defensive organisation. They will be expected to top Group G which includes England, Panama and Tunisia, but will need a solid backline to ensure the campaign does not end up as another missed opportunity.

<hr />
Belgium's fixture:

June 18

08:30 PM | Belgium vs Panama | Fisht Olympic Stadium, Sochi

June 23

05:30 PM | Belgium vs Tunisia | Otkrytiye Arena, Moscow

June 28

11:30 PM | England vs Belgium | Kaliningrad Stadium, Kaliningrad

<hr />
Provisional 28-man World Cup squad:

Goalkeepers: Thibaut Courtois (Chelsea/ENG), Simon Mignolet (Liverpool/ENG), Matz Sels (Anderlecht), Koen Casteels (Wolfsburg/GER)

Defenders: Toby Alderweireld, Jan Vertonghen (both Tottenham Hotspurs/ENG), Dedryck Boyata (Celtic/SCO), Laurent Ciman (Los Angeles FC/USA), Christian Kabasele (Watford/ENG), Vincent Kompany (Manchester City/ENG), Jordan Lukaku (Lazio/ITA), Thomas Meunier (Paris Saint-Germain/FRA), Thomas Vermaelen (Barcelona/ESP)

Midfielders: Leander Dendoncker (Anderlecht), Yannick Carrasco (Dalian Yifang/CHN), Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City/ENG), Nacer Chadli (West Bromwich Albion/ENG), Mousa Dembele (Tottenham Hotspur/ENG), Marouane Fellaini (Manchester United/ENG), Eden Hazard (Chelsea/ENG), Thorgan Hazard (Borussia Monchengladbach/GER), Adnan Januzaj (Real Sociedad/ESP), Youri Tielemans (Monaco/FRA), Axel Witsel (Tianjin Quanjian/CHN)

Forwards: Dries Mertens (Napoli/ITA), Michy Batshuayi (Chelsea/ENG), Christian Benteke (Crystal Palace/ENG), Romelu Lukaku (Manchester United/ENG)

<img alt="fifa 2018 Russia_9.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/fifa%202018%20Russia_9.jpg" width="770" />

&nbsp

&nbsp

Belgium have appeared in 12 World Cups, with their qualification for the 2014 edition in Brazil coming after a gap of 12 years

Belgium have appeared in 12 World Cups, with their qualification for the 2014 edition in Brazil coming after a gap of 12 years. The Red Devils lost to Argentina in the quarter-finals in Brazil and their best performance remains their semi-final appearance in 1986 when they fell to the eventual champions, also Argentina. Coach: Roberto Martinez: The 44-year-old Spaniard was a surprise successor to Marc Wilmots, who was dismissed after Belgium lost to Wales in the Euro 2016 quarter-finals. Martinez was then himself out of work after being sacked by Everton following a frustrating season in which they finished 11th in the Premier League. The former Swansea City manager, however, led unfancied Wigan Athletic to their only FA Cup victory in 2013 when the club beat Manchester City in the final. Under him Belgium cruised to the top of their qualifying group for Russia with an unbeaten record, becoming the first European nation to secure their spot for the 2018 finals. Key players: Kevin de Bruyne: The 26-year-old Manchester City midfielder has been the driving force in Pep Guardiola's record-breaking side. De Bruyne's work rate and ability to produce a procession of pinpoint passes took City to a new level, leaving all other title aspirants lagging way behind. Eden Hazard: The Chelsea playmaker had a similar impact in Chelsea's Premier League-winning campaign a year ago, much like De Bruyne's this time around. Hazard's dribbling and movement, on and off the ball, constantly pose questions for defenders and the 27-year-old can carve through the toughest of defences when in form. Romelu Lukaku: The 24-year-old striker, who joined Manchester United at the beginning of the season, is a proven goalscorer with more than 100 strikes in the Premier League and is already Belgium's all-time top scorer with 33. With a dazzling midfield featuring De Bruyne and Hazard, Belgium will depend heavily on Lukaku to find the net. Form guide: After drawing 3-3 against Mexico in Brussels last November, Roberto Martinez's side went on to beat Japan 1-0 four days later and then picked up a confidence-boosting 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia towards the end of March. They will play three more warm-up matches in June before kicking off their World Cup campaign against Panama on June 18. How they qualified: The Red Devils cruised through their qualification group, becoming the first European nation to secure their spot for the finals in Russia. Belgium finished as Group H winners, with nine wins and a draw, scoring 43 goals in the process. Prospects: Like four years ago in Brazil, Belgium will once again arrive on the world stage in Russia replete with talent who ply their trade in top leagues across Europe. They showed what they are capable of during World Cup qualification. While few doubt their attacking prowess, the jury is still out on their defensive organisation. They will be expected to top Group G which includes England, Panama and Tunisia, but will need a solid backline to ensure the campaign does not end up as another missed opportunity. Belgium's fixture: June 18 08:30 PM | Belgium vs Panama | Fisht Olympic Stadium, Sochi June 23 05:30 PM | Belgium vs Tunisia | Otkrytiye Arena, Moscow June 28 11:30 PM | England vs Belgium | Kaliningrad Stadium, Kaliningrad Provisional 28-man World Cup squad: Goalkeepers: Thibaut Courtois (Chelsea/ENG), Simon Mignolet (Liverpool/ENG), Matz Sels (Anderlecht), Koen Casteels (Wolfsburg/GER) Defenders: Toby Alderweireld, Jan Vertonghen (both Tottenham Hotspurs/ENG), Dedryck Boyata (Celtic/SCO), Laurent Ciman (Los Angeles FC/USA), Christian Kabasele (Watford/ENG), Vincent Kompany (Manchester City/ENG), Jordan Lukaku (Lazio/ITA), Thomas Meunier (Paris Saint-Germain/FRA), Thomas Vermaelen (Barcelona/ESP) Midfielders: Leander Dendoncker (Anderlecht), Yannick Carrasco (Dalian Yifang/CHN), Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City/ENG), Nacer Chadli (West Bromwich Albion/ENG), Mousa Dembele (Tottenham Hotspur/ENG), Marouane Fellaini (Manchester United/ENG), Eden Hazard (Chelsea/ENG), Thorgan Hazard (Borussia Monchengladbach/GER), Adnan Januzaj (Real Sociedad/ESP), Youri Tielemans (Monaco/FRA), Axel Witsel (Tianjin Quanjian/CHN) Forwards: Dries Mertens (Napoli/ITA), Michy Batshuayi (Chelsea/ENG), Christian Benteke (Crystal Palace/ENG), Romelu Lukaku (Manchester United/ENG)

FIFA World Cup 2018: A complete profile of Belgium

FIFA ranking: 5 (till June 7)

Argentina have played in 16 World Cup tournaments and have won the title twice -- at home in 1978 and in Mexico eight years later when a Diego Maradona-inspired side got past England on their way to a thrilling 3-2 win over West Germany in the final. Argentina have also reached the final on three other occasions -- at the first World Cup in 1930, in Italy in 1990 and four years ago in Brazil where they lost in extra time to Germany.

<hr />
Coach: Jorge Sampaoli: Sampaoli, 58, got the job as coach only a year before the finals in Russia, taking over at a troubled time and becoming the third man to lead the team since Alejandro Sabella left after the 2014 World Cup. The diminutive coach guided Chile to their first international title, winning the Copa America in 2015 with a fast pressing style which reflects his own hyperactive pacing along the touchline. But Sampaoli has struggled to organise Argentina in the same way and one win in four competitive games, plus recent hammerings by Nigeria and Spain, show he has his work cut out.

<hr />
Key players:

Lionel Messi: Messi will celebrate his 31st birthday during the tournament and this could be his last chance to win the one big title he lacks. Few people doubt the five-times World Player of the Year will score goals. The big question is whether his teammates will be inspired enough to approach his level.

Gonzalo Higuain: Higuain is Argentina's enigma, a player who seems to score at will for his club Juventus but labours to hit the target when wearing the national shirt. Higuain's recent record for Argentina –- one goal in nine World Cup qualifiers -– is so poor that he is not even a certainty to go to Russia under Sampaoli. However, another fine season for Juve suggests Sampaoli cannot afford to leave him out. If Higuain can reproduce his club form Argentina will be dangerous. &nbsp &nbsp

Nicolas Otamendi: Unsung hero Otamendi is the only ever-present in Sampaoli's line up since Argentina qualified for the World Cup back in October. The Manchester City defender provides much-needed reliability in a national side that has changed both names and formations with alarming regularity since Sampaoli took over. How he is utilised, and who will play alongside him, will be of vital importance to the double world champions.

<hr />
Form guide:

Argentina struggled in the qualifiers and they have barely improved since, with inconsistent results and a porous defence. They lost a November friendly 4-2 against Group D opponents Nigeria and although a 2-0 win over Italy in March briefly raised their spirits, they lost 6-1 to Spain a few days later in one of their worst performances in years.

<hr />
How they qualified:

Argentina booked their ticket to Russia largely due to the brilliance of Messi, who scored a hat-trick in their final game against Ecuador. The Argentines needed to win the match to guarantee qualification, and the 3-1 victory lifted them into third place in the 10-team group. Most surprisingly for a team with Messi, Paulo Dybala, Angel Di Maria and Higuain in their ranks, they scored just 19 goals in the 18 qualifying matches. Only Bolivia scored fewer.

<hr />
Prospects:

Argentina reached the World Cup final in 2014 and the Copa America final in 2015 and 2016, but it has been downhill ever since for the twice champions. They are in the hardest group of all, Group D, alongside Iceland, Croatia and Nigeria. If they qualify they will at least be in the side of the draw that would keep them apart from Brazil, Germany and England before the final. Another advantage for Argentina is that they begin their campaign early, just three days into the tournament on June 16 against Iceland, giving the players more time to rest.

<hr />
Argentina's fixture:

June 16

06:30 PM | Argentina vs Iceland | Otkrytiye Arena, Moscow

June 21

11:30 PM | Argentina vs Croatia | Nizhny Novgorod Stadium, Nizhny Novgorod

June 26

11:30 PM | Nigeria vs Argentina | Krestovsky Stadium, Saint Petersburg

<hr />
Twenty three-man World Cup squad:

Goalkeepers: Nahuel Guzman (Tigres Monterrey/MEX), Wilfredo Caballero (Chelsea/ENG), Franco Armani (River Plate)

Defenders: Gabriel Mercado (Sevilla/ESP), Federico Fazio (Roma/ITA), Nicolas Otamendi (Manchester City/ENG), Marcos Rojo (Manchester United/ENG), Nicolas Tagliafico (Ajax/NED), Marcos Acuna (Sporting/POR), Eduardo Salvio (Benfica/POR), Cristian Ansaldi (Torino/ITA), Javier Mascherano (Hebei Fortune/CHN).

Midfielders: Ever Banega (Sevilla/ESP), Lucas Biglia (AC Milan/ITA), Angel Di Maria (Paris Saint-Germain/FRA), Manuel Lanzini (West Ham/ENG), Giovani Lo Celso (Paris Saint-Germain/FRA), Maximiliano Meza (Independiente).

Forwards: Lionel Messi (Barcelona/ESP), Paulo Dybala (Juventus/ITA), Sergio Aguero (Manchester City/ENG), Gonzalo Higuain (Juventus/ITA), Cristian Pavon (Boca Juniors).

<img alt="fifa 2018 Russia_4.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/fifa%202018%20Russia_4.jpg" width="770" />

Argentina have played in 16 World Cup tournaments and have won the title twice

FIFA ranking: 5 (till June 7) Argentina have played in 16 World Cup tournaments and have won the title twice -- at home in 1978 and in Mexico eight years later when a Diego Maradona-inspired side got past England on their way to a thrilling 3-2 win over West Germany in the final. Argentina have also reached the final on three other occasions -- at the first World Cup in 1930, in Italy in 1990 and four years ago in Brazil where they lost in extra time to Germany. Coach: Jorge Sampaoli: Sampaoli, 58, got the job as coach only a year before the finals in Russia, taking over at a troubled time and becoming the third man to lead the team since Alejandro Sabella left after the 2014 World Cup. The diminutive coach guided Chile to their first international title, winning the Copa America in 2015 with a fast pressing style which reflects his own hyperactive pacing along the touchline. But Sampaoli has struggled to organise Argentina in the same way and one win in four competitive games, plus recent hammerings by Nigeria and Spain, show he has his work cut out. Key players: Lionel Messi: Messi will celebrate his 31st birthday during the tournament and this could be his last chance to win the one big title he lacks. Few people doubt the five-times World Player of the Year will score goals. The big question is whether his teammates will be inspired enough to approach his level. Gonzalo Higuain: Higuain is Argentina's enigma, a player who seems to score at will for his club Juventus but labours to hit the target when wearing the national shirt. Higuain's recent record for Argentina –- one goal in nine World Cup qualifiers -– is so poor that he is not even a certainty to go to Russia under Sampaoli. However, another fine season for Juve suggests Sampaoli cannot afford to leave him out. If Higuain can reproduce his club form Argentina will be dangerous. Nicolas Otamendi: Unsung hero Otamendi is the only ever-present in Sampaoli's line up since Argentina qualified for the World Cup back in October. The Manchester City defender provides much-needed reliability in a national side that has changed both names and formations with alarming regularity since Sampaoli took over. How he is utilised, and who will play alongside him, will be of vital importance to the double world champions. Form guide: Argentina struggled in the qualifiers and they have barely improved since, with inconsistent results and a porous defence. They lost a November friendly 4-2 against Group D opponents Nigeria and although a 2-0 win over Italy in March briefly raised their spirits, they lost 6-1 to Spain a few days later in one of their worst performances in years. How they qualified: Argentina booked their ticket to Russia largely due to the brilliance of Messi, who scored a hat-trick in their final game against Ecuador. The Argentines needed to win the match to guarantee qualification, and the 3-1 victory lifted them into third place in the 10-team group. Most surprisingly for a team with Messi, Paulo Dybala, Angel Di Maria and Higuain in their ranks, they scored just 19 goals in the 18 qualifying matches. Only Bolivia scored fewer. Prospects: Argentina reached the World Cup final in 2014 and the Copa America final in 2015 and 2016, but it has been downhill ever since for the twice champions. They are in the hardest group of all, Group D, alongside Iceland, Croatia and Nigeria. If they qualify they will at least be in the side of the draw that would keep them apart from Brazil, Germany and England before the final. Another advantage for Argentina is that they begin their campaign early, just three days into the tournament on June 16 against Iceland, giving the players more time to rest. Argentina's fixture: June 16 06:30 PM | Argentina vs Iceland | Otkrytiye Arena, Moscow June 21 11:30 PM | Argentina vs Croatia | Nizhny Novgorod Stadium, Nizhny Novgorod June 26 11:30 PM | Nigeria vs Argentina | Krestovsky Stadium, Saint Petersburg Twenty three-man World Cup squad: Goalkeepers: Nahuel Guzman (Tigres Monterrey/MEX), Wilfredo Caballero (Chelsea/ENG), Franco Armani (River Plate) Defenders: Gabriel Mercado (Sevilla/ESP), Federico Fazio (Roma/ITA), Nicolas Otamendi (Manchester City/ENG), Marcos Rojo (Manchester United/ENG), Nicolas Tagliafico (Ajax/NED), Marcos Acuna (Sporting/POR), Eduardo Salvio (Benfica/POR), Cristian Ansaldi (Torino/ITA), Javier Mascherano (Hebei Fortune/CHN). Midfielders: Ever Banega (Sevilla/ESP), Lucas Biglia (AC Milan/ITA), Angel Di Maria (Paris Saint-Germain/FRA), Manuel Lanzini (West Ham/ENG), Giovani Lo Celso (Paris Saint-Germain/FRA), Maximiliano Meza (Independiente). Forwards: Lionel Messi (Barcelona/ESP), Paulo Dybala (Juventus/ITA), Sergio Aguero (Manchester City/ENG), Gonzalo Higuain (Juventus/ITA), Cristian Pavon (Boca Juniors).

FIFA World Cup 2018: A complete profile of Argentina

FIFA ranking: 2 (till June 7)

Brazil is the only country to appear in every World Cup and the only nation to win the trophy five times. After losing at home in the final match in 1950 they won back-to-back titles in 1958 and 1962 and then made it three in Mexico in 1970 with what many consider to be the greatest team of all time.&nbsp;

After a 24-year drought that included heart-breaking eliminations in 1982 and 1986 they won again in 1994 with Romario and Bebeto starring. A rejuvenated Ronaldo, back from a series of knee injuries, helped them win the title in Japan in 2002 but they have disappointed since, not least in losing 7-1 to Germany in the semi-final at home four years ago.

<hr />
Coach: Tite: Like his three predecessors as manager, Tite is from the rugged southern state of Rio Grande do Sul. Coaches there are known for their disdain of frippery and the 56-year-old (real name Adenor Leonardo Bachi) is no exception. He first rose to fame at Caixas and Gremio but it was his second spell at Corinthians that really cemented his reputation as a top-class coach when he took the underperforming Sao Paulo side to the league title in 2011 and the Copa Libertadores and Club World Cup the following year. Always dignified but firm and precise, he is popular with the media, a valuable asset in Brazil.

<hr />
Key players:

Neymar: So much of Brazil's hopes rest on Neymar's slim shoulders. The greatest player of his generation is capable of winning any game with a moment of brilliance but he will be returning from three months out with a foot injury and it remains to be seen whether the rest is positive or negative. He coasted through his debut season at Paris St-Germain where he was rarely tested. How influential he will be for Brazil could depend on how he copes with the huge pressure he will face.

Philippe Coutinho: This has been a rollercoaster season for Coutinho, who started at Liverpool and ended up at Barcelona. The 25-year-old has nevertheless become a regular in Tite's side, in either a wide role or as a deeper lying central midfielder, and his long-range shooting is a powerful weapon.

However, he can sometimes drift out of the action and his challenge is to take more games by the scruff of the neck and lessen the creative burden on Neymar.

Paulinho: With a superb defence and a scintillating attack, Brazil's midfield is often overlooked. Paulinho is a key cog in Brazil's engine room and a trusted lieutenant of coach Tite, who oversaw his rise at Corinthians. When he is on form Paulinho is an old-style box-to-box midfielder, but the Barcelona player is notorious for blowing hot and cold. One of the key questions for Brazil is which Paulinho will turn up -- the rampaging bull who helped them to a stunning Confederations Cup win in 2013 or the timid player who disappeared a year later.

<hr />
Form guide:

Brazil's form going to Russia could hardly be bettered. Since Tite took over as coach in mid-2016 they have lost once in 19 games, in a friendly against Argentina in Australia. The key to their form is at the back. They have conceded just five goals in those 19 games.

<hr />
How they qualified:

Brazil were the first team to qualify for the tournament as they walked away with South America's famously competitive 10-team group. The campaign, though, was not without its hiccups. Brazil were languishing in sixth place, outside the qualification spots, after six matches but coach Dunga's sacking and Tite's arrival turned things around. Brazil won 10 of their next 12 games to top the section 10 points ahead of Uruguay.

<hr />
Prospects:

This tournament is an unusual one for Brazil, who will arrive as joint favourites and as a side that need to prove themselves all over again after their disastrous 7-1 loss to Germany in the 2014 semi-finals. They should sail through Group E against Switzerland, Costa Rica and Serbia but, with little experience playing competitively against top European sides, a question mark still exists. One mouth-watering prospect could come as early as the last 16. If Brazil or Germany qualify in second place from their groups, the two heavyweights will slug it out much earlier than they would like.

<hr />
Twenty three-man World Cup squad:

Goalkeepers: Alisson (Roma/ITA), Ederson (Manchester City/ENG), Cassio (Corinthians)

Defenders: Danilo (Manchester City/ENG), Fagner (Corinthians), Marcelo (Real Madrid/ESP), Filipe Luis (Atletico Madrid/ESP), Miranda (Inter Milan/ITA), Marquinhos (Paris SG/FRA), Thiago Silva (Paris SG/FRA), Geromel (Gremio)&nbsp;

Midfielders: Casemiro (Real Madrid/ESP), Fernandinho (Manchester City/ENG), Paulinho (Barcelona/ESP), Renato Augusto (Beijing Guoan/CHN), Fred (Shakhtar Donetsk/UKR), Philippe Coutinho (Barcelona/ESP), Willian (Chelsea/ENG)&nbsp;

Forwards: Neymar (Paris SG/FRA), Gabriel Jesus (Manchester City/ENG), Roberto Firmino (Liverpool/ENG), Douglas Costa (Juventus/ITA), Taison (Shakhtar Donetsk/UKR)

<hr />
Brazil's fixture:

June 17

11:30 PM | Brazil vs Switzerland | Rostov Arena, Rostov-on-Don

June 22

05:30 PM | Brazil vs Costa Rica | Krestovsky Stadium, Saint Petersburg

June 27

11:30 PM | Serbia vs Brazil | Otkrytiye Arena, Moscow

<img alt="fifa 2018 Russia_1.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/fifa%202018%20Russia_1.jpg" width="770" />

Brazil is the only country to appear in every World Cup and the only nation to win the trophy five times

FIFA ranking: 2 (till June 7) Brazil is the only country to appear in every World Cup and the only nation to win the trophy five times. After losing at home in the final match in 1950 they won back-to-back titles in 1958 and 1962 and then made it three in Mexico in 1970 with what many consider to be the greatest team of all time. After a 24-year drought that included heart-breaking eliminations in 1982 and 1986 they won again in 1994 with Romario and Bebeto starring. A rejuvenated Ronaldo, back from a series of knee injuries, helped them win the title in Japan in 2002 but they have disappointed since, not least in losing 7-1 to Germany in the semi-final at home four years ago. Coach: Tite: Like his three predecessors as manager, Tite is from the rugged southern state of Rio Grande do Sul. Coaches there are known for their disdain of frippery and the 56-year-old (real name Adenor Leonardo Bachi) is no exception. He first rose to fame at Caixas and Gremio but it was his second spell at Corinthians that really cemented his reputation as a top-class coach when he took the underperforming Sao Paulo side to the league title in 2011 and the Copa Libertadores and Club World Cup the following year. Always dignified but firm and precise, he is popular with the media, a valuable asset in Brazil. Key players: Neymar: So much of Brazil's hopes rest on Neymar's slim shoulders. The greatest player of his generation is capable of winning any game with a moment of brilliance but he will be returning from three months out with a foot injury and it remains to be seen whether the rest is positive or negative. He coasted through his debut season at Paris St-Germain where he was rarely tested. How influential he will be for Brazil could depend on how he copes with the huge pressure he will face. Philippe Coutinho: This has been a rollercoaster season for Coutinho, who started at Liverpool and ended up at Barcelona. The 25-year-old has nevertheless become a regular in Tite's side, in either a wide role or as a deeper lying central midfielder, and his long-range shooting is a powerful weapon. However, he can sometimes drift out of the action and his challenge is to take more games by the scruff of the neck and lessen the creative burden on Neymar. Paulinho: With a superb defence and a scintillating attack, Brazil's midfield is often overlooked. Paulinho is a key cog in Brazil's engine room and a trusted lieutenant of coach Tite, who oversaw his rise at Corinthians. When he is on form Paulinho is an old-style box-to-box midfielder, but the Barcelona player is notorious for blowing hot and cold. One of the key questions for Brazil is which Paulinho will turn up -- the rampaging bull who helped them to a stunning Confederations Cup win in 2013 or the timid player who disappeared a year later. Form guide: Brazil's form going to Russia could hardly be bettered. Since Tite took over as coach in mid-2016 they have lost once in 19 games, in a friendly against Argentina in Australia. The key to their form is at the back. They have conceded just five goals in those 19 games. How they qualified: Brazil were the first team to qualify for the tournament as they walked away with South America's famously competitive 10-team group. The campaign, though, was not without its hiccups. Brazil were languishing in sixth place, outside the qualification spots, after six matches but coach Dunga's sacking and Tite's arrival turned things around. Brazil won 10 of their next 12 games to top the section 10 points ahead of Uruguay. Prospects: This tournament is an unusual one for Brazil, who will arrive as joint favourites and as a side that need to prove themselves all over again after their disastrous 7-1 loss to Germany in the 2014 semi-finals. They should sail through Group E against Switzerland, Costa Rica and Serbia but, with little experience playing competitively against top European sides, a question mark still exists. One mouth-watering prospect could come as early as the last 16. If Brazil or Germany qualify in second place from their groups, the two heavyweights will slug it out much earlier than they would like. Twenty three-man World Cup squad: Goalkeepers: Alisson (Roma/ITA), Ederson (Manchester City/ENG), Cassio (Corinthians) Defenders: Danilo (Manchester City/ENG), Fagner (Corinthians), Marcelo (Real Madrid/ESP), Filipe Luis (Atletico Madrid/ESP), Miranda (Inter Milan/ITA), Marquinhos (Paris SG/FRA), Thiago Silva (Paris SG/FRA), Geromel (Gremio) Midfielders: Casemiro (Real Madrid/ESP), Fernandinho (Manchester City/ENG), Paulinho (Barcelona/ESP), Renato Augusto (Beijing Guoan/CHN), Fred (Shakhtar Donetsk/UKR), Philippe Coutinho (Barcelona/ESP), Willian (Chelsea/ENG) Forwards: Neymar (Paris SG/FRA), Gabriel Jesus (Manchester City/ENG), Roberto Firmino (Liverpool/ENG), Douglas Costa (Juventus/ITA), Taison (Shakhtar Donetsk/UKR) Brazil's fixture: June 17 11:30 PM | Brazil vs Switzerland | Rostov Arena, Rostov-on-Don June 22 05:30 PM | Brazil vs Costa Rica | Krestovsky Stadium, Saint Petersburg June 27 11:30 PM | Serbia vs Brazil | Otkrytiye Arena, Moscow

FIFA World Cup 2018: A complete profile of Brazil

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