Eurovision is back and ready to captivate viewers once more with its grand final set for Saturday night in Basel. This year, 26 countries will compete for the revered glass microphone trophy, with the stakes seemingly higher than ever. Unlike previous years dominated by predicted winners like Loreen from Sweden and Ukraine's Kalush Orchestra, this time the race appears wide open. Bookmakers currently favor Sweden and their whimsical sauna-inspired song "Bara Bada Bastu," but history tells us that novelty acts are seldom crowned champions. Typically, voters gravitate towards powerful pop anthems that resonate with themes of triumph and resilience.

We connected with the top five contenders, each offering a unique performance that could potentially steal the show.

**SWEDEN: KAJ – BARA BADA BASTU**
- **Chance of winning:** 39%
- **Language:** Swedish
- **Genre:** Epadunk
- **Spotify streams:** 43.9 million

Representing Sweden, KAJ is making history as the first Finnish act to take the stage with their song "Bara Bada Bastu," a lighthearted homage to Finnish sauna traditions. Members Kevin Holmström and Jakob Norrgård share a 15-year performance history that has culminated in an unexpectedly popular entry. Their staging features a mock sauna, making for a visually engaging experience.

**AUSTRIA: JJ - WASTED LOVE**
- **Chance of winning:** 22%
- **Language:** English
- **Genre:** Pop-opera
- **Spotify streams:** 6 million

JJ, the pseudonym for Johannes Pietsch, steps away from the Vienna State Opera to deliver "Wasted Love," a poignant ballad reflecting on unreciprocated affection. His powerful counter-tenor voice is an asset, and his dramatic staging, which features a boat, promises to leave an impression.

**FRANCE: LOUANE - MAMAN**
- **Chance of winning:** 8%
- **Language:** French
- **Genre:** Torch song
- **Spotify streams:** 6.9 million

Louane's "Maman," a heartfelt tribute inspired by the loss of her mother, offers a deep emotional narrative. The staging is simple yet powerful, featuring a sandstorm effect that complements the theme of nostalgia and healing, resonating deeply with the audience.

**NETHERLANDS: CLAUDE - C'EST LA VIE**
- **Chance of winning:** 6%
- **Language:** French and English
- **Genre:** Chanson
- **Spotify streams:** 17.2 million

21-year-old Claude Kiambe's uplifting track "C'est La Vie" celebrates resilience and joy, inspired by his mother’s optimistic outlook on life. As someone who has gained recognition for his prior work, his mix of Afropop and chanson offers a refreshing sound amid the competition.

**FINLAND: ERIKA VIKMAN - ICH KOMME**
- **Chance of winning:** 4%
- **Language:** Finnish, German
- **Genre:** Eurodance
- **Spotify streams:** 11.8 million

Offering a bold choice, Erika Vikman's "Ich Komme" dives into themes of sexuality with an infectious energy and catchy techno beats. Known previously in the Finnish tango scene, she now embraces a more liberated pop persona, promising an unforgettable performance.

**WHAT ABOUT THE UK?**
- **Chance of winning:** 1%
- **Language:** English
- **Genre:** Musical theatre
- **Spotify streams:** 3.1 million

Though the UK act Remember Monday was initially seen as an underdog, now the trio is prepared to charm audiences with their feel-good performance that draws from their musical theatre roots, adding an exciting layer to the competition.

As the excitement builds, only time will reveal who will claim victory in the Eurovision final. Stay tuned for our live updates and reports!