THE greatest show on earth is just around the corner.

Excitement for the World Cup is building throughout the nation and here in Bournemouth, we’re no different.

England shirts have been donned, St George’s Crosses hoisted high and throats cleared ready to roar on Roy Hodgson’s boys in Brazil.

And as the big kick-off draws ever closer, five Cherries fans told the Daily Echo how they believe the tournament will unfold.

Steve Moore

Age: 30

Lives: Parkstone

Cherries fan since: 1993

Favourite player: Tommy Elphick

Who do you fancy to win the World Cup?

I'm going with Argentina, primarily because they are a South American team and have arguably the best player in the world in Lionel Messi. Spain look a dominant force but as no European team has won the World Cup in South America before, my choice is Argentina.

Who is your dark horse?

As a dark horse to get further than expected, I'll pick England. I don't think many expect us to get out the group, but as an optimist I'll say we will get to the quarter finals. A dark horse to win the World Cup... Uruguay.

Do you fancy any big guns to exit at the group stage?

I remember how I chuckled when France were knocked out in 2002, so let's hope so. I expect Germany to win Group G and Ghana may spring a surprise, so Portugal could be at risk. Of course, Italy will be on an early flight home.

Which player are you most looking forward to watching?

Raheem Sterling impressed for Liverpool at the back end of the season and I think he could make a difference for England. Whether in the number 10 role or out wide, he offers the speed and creativity to unlock defences.

This will be the best World Cup to date because...

... of England. I'm genuinely excited to watch the Three Lions, much more than in 2006 and 2010. Hopefully, Roy Hodgson will give youth and attacking flair a chance.

Adrian Lee

Age: 25

Lives: Moordown

Cherries fan since: 1990

Favourite player: Simon Francis

Who do you fancy to win the World Cup?

Brazil. They have a nice balance in the side and very good individual players. They have home advantage and know the conditions, as well as having plenty of support behind them. I think that'll be a big help.

Who is your dark horse?

We are all aware of Belgium's favourable group of players and I can see them doing well, but the team I'd be inclined to watch out for is Chile. I can see them emerging from a tough Group B and surprising one or two along the way.

Do you fancy any big guns to exit at the group stage?

I fancy the Netherlands to go out early on. They have a difficult group alongside Spain and Chile and I don't think they will have enough to see them through. Another one to keep an eye on is Italy, as I don't feel they play as a team.

Which player are you most looking forward to watching?

All eyes will be on Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi to see if they produce, but I will be watching Neymar. I personally think he is overrated, but he has a great opportunity to settle any doubts this summer.

This will be the best World Cup to date because...

... it's a very open tournament. There will be great games, moments of quality and shocks. I'm sure the English lads will do us proud, too.

Mike Ponchaud

Age: 35

Lives: Burton

Cherries fan since: 1984

Favourite player: Matt Ritchie

Who do you fancy to win the World Cup?

Brazil have a lot of attacking talent and passionate support behind them, while as the host nation, they are used to the conditions. The stage is set for Neymar & Co.

Who is your dark horse?

Belgium have a lot of talent in their squad. With Vincent Kompany at the back and Romelu Lukaku leading the line, they have a team capable of keeping it tight at the back and hitting teams on the break.

Do you fancy any big guns to exit at the group stage?

For once I can't see England getting past the group stages. I'd prefer to see us play young talent such as Adam Lallana and Raheem Sterling so they can gain experience before Euro 2016.

Which player are you most looking forward to watching?

Neymar has a wonderful touch, is very quick and knows where the goal is. I'm sure he'll be eager to impress the Brazilian public.

This will be the best World Cup to date because...

... I'm not expecting England to win it, so I won't be disappointed when we don't. I can relax and actually enjoy it.

Lee Seal

Age: 34

Lives: Redhill

Cherries fan since: 1987

Favourite player: Lee Camp

Who do you fancy to win the World Cup?

I don't think you can look any further than Brazil or Argentina. As much as it pains me to admit it, Germany are Europe’s best hope.

Who is your dark horse?

Uruguay. With Diego Godin and Maxi Pereira in their squad they are strong defensively, and going forward they have Luis Suarez, Edinson Cavani and Diego Forlan. If Suarez plays and is anywhere near fit, they will be a real force.

Do you fancy any big guns to exit at the group stage?

I hate to say it, but I can see England finishing third in Group D. That said, it will be a great experience for our youngsters. Also, the Netherlands could easily slip up in Group B.

Which player are you most looking forward to watching?

Just to see if he can go to the next level, Ross Barkley. I genuinely hope he plays 90 minutes of every game.

This will be the best World Cup to date because...

... it’s in Brazil and the celebrations would be unreal if they won. It would be an amazing experience to watch it all unfold.

Philip Jackson

Age: 23

Lives: Southampton

Cherries fan since: 1997

Favourite player: Simon Francis

Who do you fancy to win the World Cup?

The script is already written for a Brazil win. Not only do they have flair players, but also robustness within the team.

Who is your dark horse?

Uruguay. If they can make it out of a tough Group D, they should do well. Luis Suarez is unplayable on his day and if the side clicks, they will go far.

Do you fancy any big guns to exit at the group stage?

As it's a major competition, I expect France to implode in the first week. The group of death is undoubtedly Group G, where Portugal may struggle alongside Germany, Ghana and the USA.

Which player are you most looking forward to watching?

Neymar. Barcelona’s golden boy is under immense pressure to fulfil his potential at a home World Cup, but I expect him to flourish.

This will be the best World Cup to date because...

... it’s in Brazil. There will be a huge array of talent on display, with no outright favourites.

Are you going to Brazil to watch the World Cup? or are you planning a special event for it at home? If you'd like to be involved in our coverage, email newsdesk@bournemouthecho.co.uk