Zoos have unveiled their lineup of 412 animals that are expected to predict the results of this year’s World Cup. The animal oracles aim to follow in the tentacle-steps of the legendary Paul the Octopus, whose football foresight in 2010 still lingers in the annals of sports history.

Wayne Hayes from London Zoo has high hopes for Brett the zebra, citing his mystical equid abilities to foresee the future, while Mary Fisher of Edinburgh Zoo counters with Mairead the capybara, who's betting on a thrilling 3-2 victory for France in extra time. Meanwhile, Berlin Zoological Garden prefers Gottlieb the giant anaconda, who picks winners by devouring rats emblazoned with national flags.

Other animal pundits include Barry the box jellyfish, Elmer the spot-breasted ibis, Chiyo the Thompson’s gazelle, and Stephen the slime-mould from Braintree Spore Park. Paul the Octopus, after his successful prediction of Spain’s victory in 2010, enjoyed a whirlwind of fame and even embarked on a world tour, before meeting his end in the embrace of a Las Vegas showgirl.