World Cup Preview- Group H

We wrap up our previews today with a look at Group H. The group features dark horses Belgium as well as Algeria, Russia, and South Korea. The group is one of the few that features two UEFA group winners but most eyes will be on Belgium.

Team Previews:
Algeria: The Desert Warriors haven't scored in the World Cup since 1986 and are definitely one of the underdogs this summer. Algeria is traditionally known for playing a more defensive style, but they have some more dynamic young players that could provide some excitement in Brazil. Valencia winger Sofiane Feghouli possesses great speed and will look to cut in to create goals for himself and his teammates. Sporting Portugal striker Islam Slimani is a prototypical goal poacher who is comfortable in the box and able to finish with either foot. Algeria's biggest weakness is its defense so they make look to play with 10 or 11 players behind the ball and hit out on the counter attack. If Algeria can play well defensively, they might be able to catch some teams off guard.

Belgium: The Red Devils are one of the hottest topics in world football. They definitely have the talent to do well in Brazil but they are also a very inexperienced side. Midfield trio Eden Hazard, Kevin De Bruyne, and Kevin Mirallas provide the attacking presence for Belgium and will look to supply striker Romelu Lukaku who can be deadly in the opposition's box.  Vincent Kompany and Thomas Vermaelen provide a formidable centerback pairing in front of world class goalie Thibaut Courtois. Left back Jan Vertonghen provides a dynamic force down the flank and he's dangerous with his left foot on free kicks. The Belgians should have no trouble winning the group, but the knockout stage could be a problem for the inexperienced team.

Russia: There is a lot of pressure on a team that topped Ronaldo's Portugal in qualifying, especially from the fans. Russia's best player is probably Igor Akinfeev, who had a year long shut out streak during qualifying and hasn't conceded more than one goal in a game since 2008. Russia's problems like more in attack with little creative ability or firepower from their front men. Attacking midfielder Alan Dzagoev, who can play on the left wing or through the middle, is Russia's most creative offensive player. He'll need to link up well with striker Aleksandr Kerzhakov and winger Aleksandr Kokorin if Russia are going to be able to score some goals.

South Korea: The 2002 semi-finalists were barely able to qualify for Brazil, but will look to impress now that they've made it. The main reason for optimism is winger Son Heung-Min who netted 10 goals for Bayer Leverkusen in the German Bundesliga this year. He's capable of creating plays and taking shots from distance, whether he's playing off of the striker in out wide. The key might be striker Park Chu-Young who joined Arsenal in 2011 but has only played seven minutes for the club. Once tipped to be the next great Asian player, Park will try to rebuild some of his reputation this summer. Centerback Kim Young-Gwon will be relied upon to provide a strong presence at the back. If South Korea can get key contributions from Son and Park, they should be able to move on to the next round.

Players to Watch:
The Star: Eden Hazard
Hazard has been one of the game's top prospect for the past few years and he lived up to that potential this year with Chelsea. The 23 year-old uses his speed to his advantage as he flies down either wing. His dribbling skills with both feet and passing ability make him effective when playing in the middle as well. Hazard has the ability to finish his chances both inside and outside of the penalty area. If Belgium are going to go far in the World Cup, Hazard will lead the way.

The One to Watch: Son Heung-Min
Son is not a household name yet but he could be after the tournament. Like many of his South Korean teammates, Son is a tireless worker. His stamina is one of his best attributes in additon to his ability to use both feet, his speed and his finishing ability. Coming off of a good year in Germany, Son could raise his stock even further if he plays well in Brazil.

The Question Mark: Alan Dzagoev
Russia will rely on Dzagoev to provide the creative influence in their team. The Russians are strong in defense and will need scoring to move to the latter rounds. Dzagoev's ability to create chance for those around him will be the key in creating that scoring. The biggest question about Dzagoev is whether or not he'll see the field. Dzagoev has fallen out with coach Fabio Capello and only played in three of the ten qualifying matches, but Russia need his abilities if they're going to escape the group stage.

Predicted Finish:
1. Belgium
2. South Korea
3. Russia
4. Algeria