Ronaldo: 'Brazil favourites for World Cup'

Former Brazil striker Ronaldo believes that the Selecao are the favourites to win the World Cup on their home patch next summer.

The 37-year-old, who scored 62 goals in 98 caps for his country before retiring in 2011, also believes that Spain and Germany are "candidates" for the crown.

"It's not the same as the World Cup, but the team showed their potential at the Confederations Cup," he told FIFA's official website.

"With time to train, Brazil improved a great deal. It really gave Brazilians hope that we might win the World Cup at home. We've got a great chance.

"Spain and Germany are candidates, but Brazil have shown how strong they are, and we'll be playing at home. I'd say that the favourites are Brazil, Germany and Spain, in that order."

Spain are the current world and European champions.