Will Russia Win World Cup 2018?

Failed prediction of World Cup 2018 (https://www.quora.com) 

Based on prediction made on November 2017, the following team estimated to enter quarter final: Spain, Argentina, Germany, England, Portugal, France, Brazil and Belgium. As usual, Brazil always a favorite team to be predicted as a champion. 

How far the prediction is true? As of today, July 2^nd, 2018, the quarter final teams are following Uruguay, France, Russia and Croatia. Three prominent teams, Argentina, Spain and Portugal are out of stage. We are waiting the result for other 4 teams which will make quarter final. 

Surprisingly, France only is corresponding to prediction so far. Nobody would predict Russia as one of quarter final teams. The question is: Will Russia go forward, and then win the championship? Let’s us analyze! 

The former Russia country was called the Soviet Union, first time play in World Cup was in Sweden in 1958. Total participations were 7 times from 1958 to 1991 with the best achievement was the 4^th place in England in 1966. 

Russia as a country played first time at World Cup game in the USA in 1994. Since then, the best achievement was 18^th place. Even twice did not qualify for World Cup. Not special. 

However, Russia has several advantages than other teams, first as a host, thus has full support from supporters. Second, many Russians play in the top European leagues, scatters in the countries such as Spain, Italy, France, Germany, Netherland, Belgium and Finland.  

In addition, the players in the Russian leagues got annual salary with average US$ 1.4 million. The trainer, Stanislav Cherchesov salary is US$ 3.02 million. Both coach and players are among the highest paid in the world. 

These facts might support the prediction that Russian is possible be the winner of the World Cup 2018. What is in your mind?