Just don't mention penalties!

With just a few days to go, is it time to start talking about the World Cup, and England's chances?  The bookies make us 18/1 to win, but the general feeling is that the true odds are nearer 25/1.  Brazil are favourites, with Germany or Spain most likely to be the other finalists.  Some Australian academics have come up with a mathematical model  which suggests we are likely to survive the group stage, but will then probably come to grief in the round of 16.  Keep your money in your pocket is my advice, at least until we have had a good look at the runners and riders.