Final ideals

2 exciting semis down - now just the final to go...
Let it now be truly known that we really really REALLY do not have a clue as to what is going to win!

First of all, the running order has now been finalised and it is incredibly full-on, the second half in particular seems at a much higher pace than the second half, although the end of the running order as some surprisingly slow punctuations. This has dented a few hopes and dreams, most notably Spain who have been handed the dreaded number 2 spot - a from which no country has ever won. I am not going to indulge too much into the mechanics of this pseudo-science mainly because apart from the obvious favouritism spots, and the much hyped benefits of being in the second half, 4 of the last 5 ESC winners have actually been from the first half.

So, based my own personal opinions and preferences with a tiny bit of swaying from the live performances seen during the semi finals, fan participation in the hall and the general fan opinion on social media, here is my list of the 26 finalists.

Don't expect this to be the actual result - although that would be rather epic. From my list, I would say that Albania has almost no chance of winning and Denmark would be quite the shock, but after that any of the next 3 could be winners. Also, depending on demographic, the opera from Estonia or the modern metal from Hungary could be a sneaky benefactor. I get the feeling that the winner of the jury vote, which is done first, will not be the same as the televote winner. Depending on margins, this may or may not affect the placings but will make it a very close result.

One huge issue that may sway the voting is the question of where some of the 'friendly votes' will go? With the obliteration of some of the ex-Soviet countries - where will their televote go if their de facto first choice isn't there? Lithuania, Moldova and Ukraine are still standing and one must remember that Alexander Rybak is genetically Belarusian so they have to be seen as possibly exceeding in the phone votes. On a similar theme, the Greek diaspora vote will go straight to Cyprus and from ex-Yugoslavia Slovenia and Serbia should see a small boost.

All I hope is that it's a slick show, the performances are good and the voting is clear but also nail biting!