England's World Cup chances assessed as they are rated third favourites behind Spain and France - Between the Lines

The World Cup is finally upon us. Could it be England's year?

Opta's supercomputer, which is based on 10,000 simulations and factors a wide range of data points, has Thomas Tuchel's side as third favourites, with a 10.9 per cent chance of lifting the trophy.

European champions Spain are rated as favourites, with a 15.9 per cent chance of success, while France are second on 13.2 per cent. Holders Argentina, Portugal, Brazil and Germany complete the top seven. Scotland, meanwhile, are given only a 0.3 per cent chance, although they are at least predicted to reach the round of 32.

So, is England's 10.9 per cent chance of winning the tournament for the first time since 1966 a fair calculation? And how do their chances really compare to Spain's and France's?

One factor to consider is each side's possible route to the final.