Rio 2016 men's, Group A: Brazil's fresh strikeforce to ease through

Unfortunately Brazil won't be on view at some of its country's most storied stadiums for the group stages, but given the competition of Group A, or lack thereof, one would suspect that will change in the quarter-finals. A meeting with Group B's runner-up awaits at the hi-tech Arena Corinthians in Sao Paulo on Aug. 13.

Don't think taking gold isn't particularly coveted by the yellow and green throng this summer - it marks the only major tournament the Selecao hasn't captured, and Barcelona's Neymar, Paris Saint-Germain's Marquinhos and many other decorated stars have put club duty on hold for the competition.

Rounding off the quartet are Denmark, Iraq and South Africa, bringing together a fascinating blend of cultures and philosophies of the beautiful game.

Group Schedule

4 Players to Watch

Brazil: Gabriel Jesus

High-class talent hasn't been produced by Brazil at its usual alarming rate lately, but it might not be entirely necessary if the exploits of Manchester City target Gabriel Jesus are anything to go by. If paired alongside Neymar at the Olympics, the 19-year-old's considerable strength and ability to wriggle his way through the middle of a Life Savers mint could perfectly complement the Barcelona star. The duo, along with Santos' Gabigol, could form Brazil's frontline for years to come.

Denmark: Lasse Vibe

Brentford's highly regarded number crunchers last summer deemed Lasse Vibe, fresh from two seasons of prolificacy in attack for IFK Goteborg, as the man to lift the once-modest club from the English second tier. Its bid fell short in a respectable ninth place, but Vibe's fine link-up play and 14 strikes provides Denmark cause for optimism in Brazil.

Iraq: Hammadi Ahmad

Iraq's players are beginning to link up with their national side from further flung areas of the globe, with Dhurgham Ismail headlining this international contingent through his work down the left-hand side for Turkey's Caykur Rizespor. In Brasilia and Sao Paulo, however, the Lions of Mesopotamia could rely on a proud performer in the Iraqi Premier League. Hammadi Ahmed can turn out up front or on the right flank, and has been a mainstay in his homeland's division for over a decade.

South Africa: Itumeleng Khune

Hailing from South African giants Kaizer Chiefs is captain Itumeleng Khune, who, along with club teammate Erick Mathoho, brings valuable experience into the Bafana Bafana lineup. His inclusion divided a nation, however, as it usurps the promising Jody February from between the sticks after an impressive CAF Youth Championships showing in Senegal last year. Expect Khune to justify his selection pretty quickly, though, and to liberate Mamelodi Sundowns attacker Keagan Dolly who's relinquished the armband.

Upset Potential

The undoubted underdog of Group A is Iraq, but its gradual improvement in recent times lends hope to it giving a good account of itself in Brazil. After plodding through a 10-game winless streak through much of 2014 and the start of 2015, things have fared much better with 10 victories in its last 20 outings. This may be the Under-23 version of the national side, but if Ali Adnan - Udinese's 22-year-old left-back - and its more experienced members step up, they could give Denmark and South Africa a fright.

Predicted Finish

Group A should be a breeze for Brazil, the clear favourite to win the whole tournament, but below Rogerio Micale's side anything can happen. Despite being able to call upon a few players from clubs of fine pedigree, you worry that Denmark could be shamed.

1. Brazil
2. South Africa
3. Iraq
4. Denmark