A total of 48 World Cup group matches will dominate the airwaves in the coming days, frustrating the most passionate of soccer haters. For some, schedules will be constructed to accommodate ESPN's coverage of the tournament. For others, the responsible types, there'll only be a handful of opportunities to enjoy it.
So if catching all 48 group-stage matches is out of the question, no worries. Below is a countdown of the five most worthy of your attention.
5. Ghana vs. USA, Estadio das Dunas, June 16, 6 p.m. ET
This matchup makes the list for one reason and one reason only: History. Ghana, widely considered the "boogeyman" of American soccer, eliminated the U.S. men's national team in each of the last two World Cups. A loss for either side in this group-stage opener will be a crushing blow, providing the U.S. a perfect opportunity to exact revenge.
4. Spain vs. Netherlands, Arena Fonte Nova, June 13, 3 p.m. ET
From a footballing perspective, the Group B matchup between Spain and Chile is far more appealing than this battle of European powers. The Dutch aren't favored to advance past the group stages, but this is a repeat of the 2010 World Cup final. Fingers crossed Nigel de Jong is prepared to karate kick another Spanish player.
3. Argentina vs. Bosnia-Herzegovina, Maracana, June 15, 6 p.m. ET
No offense to the women of Brazil, but there won't be a more attractive way to spend your time on June 15 than watching Argentina and Bosnia-Herzegovina. The two are favored to advance to the knockout rounds, but more importantly, play some of the most aesthetic football in the modern game. The technical abilities of world-class stars the likes of Lionel Messi, Angel Di Maria and Edin Dzeko, make this matchup as salivating as they come.
2. England vs. Italy, Arena Amazonia, June 14, 6 p.m. ET
Neither England nor Italy are tipped as favorites to win the 2014 World Cup, but few nations are as rich in footballing history. England is cultivating a youth movement, adding Ross Barkley and Raheem Sterling to the national team. Italy finally decided to drive the bus instead of park it. You have a newfound sex appeal for one of football's most storied rivalries.
1. Brazil vs. Mexico, Estadio Castelao, June 17, 3 p.m. ET
No offense to Argentina and the United States, but the two most talked about national teams on this side of the pond are Brazil and Mexico. One (Brazil) boasts the history. The other (Mexico), the ambition. With the World Cup taking place on South American soil, a matchup between CONCACAF and CONMEBOL's best (historically) carries far too many narratives to not top this list.
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