The 2014 FIFA World Cup promises to be a great soccer tournament, featuring only the best soccer nations in the world. As usual Brazil, Spain, and Italy are the favorites to win it all. However, history tells us that this year, South American teams have an even bigger reason to be favored.

In all four FIFA World Cups that have been held in South America, a South American country has gone on to win the tournament. Of course, having home-field advantage counts for something. Nothing beats hearing the roar of the crowd at your back and intimidating the opposing goaltenders. Being the host nation has huge advantages, but this goes way beyond that. No continent has been able to take advantage of hosting the FIFA World Cup quite like South America has.

In 1930, the very first FIFA tournament was held in the small country of Uruguay. The Uruguayan National team successfully defended their home soil in front of thousands of fans defeating Argentina in the finals.

It wouldn't be for another 20 years until South America hosted another World Cup. In 1950, Brazil got the honor to host the world's most popular sport. Uruguay once again won the title, this time against Brazil.

The trend would continue with Brazil dominating the 1962 FIFA games in Chile. The last time the World Cup was hosted in South America was 1978, when Argentina hosted and won the championship.

There's no doubt about it: When it comes to defending continental boundaries, South America is unbeatable.

Of the 19 FIFA World Cup tournaments, six countries have won the event playing as the host. Playing at home is big, but it's not everything. Two of the four South American countries have successfully defended their territory against the world (Uruguay in 1930 and Argentina in 1978).

With this year's FIFA World Cup taking place in Brazil, soccer fans in South America have plenty of reasons to feel energized.

Despite not hosting a World Cup since 1978, three South American countries have still been able to win in different continents. Both Europe and South America have dominated the soccer world, winning every FIFA World Cup combined. This year, however, could spell bad news for European teams. Never has a European team ever won in South America. This rivalry doesn't pose well for Europe with the Cup being in Brazil, where European teams are 0-4.

For up-to-date sports news, scores and more, follow the Latin Post Sports on Twitter: @LatinPostSports

Related