Brazil and Germany entered the 2018 World Cup in Russia as two of the leading contenders for the title, with Spain and France also widely viewed as major challengers before the tournament began.
At the time, estimates from analysts and betting markets placed Brazil and Germany at the front of the favourites list. Brazil carried strong momentum under Tite, while Germany arrived in Russia as the defending champions.
Spain and France were also heavily backed in pre-tournament discussion, making the competition look open despite Brazil and Germany standing out among the main candidates ahead of kick-off.