World Cup 2018: Jefinho predicts Group E

Every four years football experts around the world make their predictions for the FIFA Football World Cup. In the countdown to the football tournament in Russia, Paralympic.org has asked for the analysis of a very special football pundit. Brazil’s blind football star Jefinho, one of the greatest 5-a-side football players of all time is in Madrid, Spain, taking part in the IBSA Blind Football World Championships.

Now it is time for Jefinho’s analysis of Group E: Brazil, Costa Rica, Serbia and Switzerland.

Jefinho’s predictions, Group E:

“Brazil always face difficulties against teams that play defensively and park the bus but if they want to be champions they will have to be able to overcome these challenges. Still, I believe Brazil will make it and finish first in the group with three wins. Costa Rica was one of the biggest surprises of the 2014 World Cup reaching the quarter finals but I don’t think they have the same strength now. It will be hard for them and I believe the second place will be with a European side. Switzerland and Serbia have different styles and none of them have international stars. Serbia has a more skilful team but Switzerland don’t concede many goals and it can make the difference in Group E.”

Who qualifies for the round of 16:

“Brazil first. Switzerland will take the other spot”

Match schedule

17 June

Costa Rica v Serbia

Brazil v Switzerland

22 June

Brazil v Costa Rica

Serbia v Switzerland

27 June

Serbia v Brazil

Switzerland v Costa Rica