By Robert Khanjian
This World Cup in many ways feels very different to any we have experienced before. It is held in the winter for the first time ever, seen as disruptive by many to the European club football season, but is also the first World Cup to be hosted in the Middle East.
With that said, there is some incredible football to look forward to at this World Cup. If you haven’t had the chance to catch some of the earlier games, or perhaps feel out of touch with the tournament – this article is for you. There is a lot to be excited about.
South American favourites?
Has the balance of power in international football finally shifted back to the South American continent? Before the tournament Brazil and Argentina were heavily backed by bookies and experts as the favourites for the World Cup, yet the results of their first matches tell very different stories.
Argentina were on a streak of 36 games undefeated since 2019. In Lionel Scaloni they have a manager who won them the Copa América last year and seems to have finally built a balanced team that plays to Messi’s strengths. One lacklustre performance in the historic upset against Saudi Arabia later, Argentina sit bottom of their group, with their hopes of a World Cup triumph looking bleak. Yet, with one of the greatest players of all time, Lionel Messi, and a host of attacking talent in Martinez, Alvarez and di Maria, it’s impossible to ever count them out.
Brazil looked assured in a comfortable 2-0 win against a spirited Serbia side. What is perhaps most terrifying is that they clearly have more gears in them. Every World Cup winning side in recent history was blessed with incredible squad depth and this Brazil team certainly matches that trend. Every substitution makes their 11 look just as good, if not stronger. Neymar is, of course, the talisman of the side, but the ‘Seleçao’ have shown that they are not short of goals from elsewhere too. They possess a dynamic midfield and arguably the strongest attacking lineup of any national team at the World Cup, allowing them to play on the front foot even against the top teams. There is definitely a lot to be excited about when it comes to Brazil
How far can the African sides go?
Since the iconic Ghana side of 2010 that came within a Luiz Saurez handball of a World Cup semi-final, no African team has managed to even get to the quarters. 4 years ago in Russia, none had even made it out of their groups. This year looks to be different.
Many would have tipped reigning African champions Senegal to go furthest out of the african teams, yet this year they are without their captain Sadio Mané. They still are a side full of quality, such as Watford winger Ismaïla Sarr and a midfield pairing of Idrissa Gueye and Nampalys Mendy. Yet only a win in their final game against Ecuador sends them through to the knockout stage.
Ghana have looked impressive, despite opening with a 3-2 loss to a strong Portugal side. The ‘Black Stars’ have a great mixture of youth and experience this year. Ajax’s Mohamed Kudus and Arsenal’s Thomas Partey look to be key if they are to progress past the group stage. Look out for some sparks in the Ghana – Uruguay match on Friday afternoon.
Who are the dark horses?
The first few games of the tournament have given us some surprises from very unexpected teams. Ecuador look set to make it to the knockouts after assured performances against Qatar and the Netherlands. Japan shocked the world, coming from behind to beat Germany 2-1. Canada too, despite a 1-0 defeat to Belgium, were entertaining to watch. Every tournament has its surprises and these three sides are among them. All of them have shown great tactical flexibility, which allows them to pose a threat to even the strongest sides.
Another European crisis?
Reigning champions France and Luis Enrique’s Spain look the most assured of the European sides. Both sides have slowly phased out the older generations of players, with bright young stars carrying the hopes of their nations at this World Cup. Expect lots of goals from both sides and keep an eye out for Pedri and Gavi in the Spanish midfield.
Portugal seem to finally have a squad of stars that could deliver Ronaldo the World Cup. Van Gaal’s Dutch side are full of youth, energy and I would strongly back them to go far this year. Germany and England have definitely shown some positives signs, but cannot seem to grind out results against teams that are tougher to break down.
Honourable mentions include Serbia, Denmark and Switzerland – all sides that can surprise many with their quality.
One last shot at the World Cup for Messi and Ronaldo, an exciting Brazil side, resurgent European teams, pleasant surprises and historic upsets. Yes, this World Cup is different, it is unusual. The football has been incredible and there are so many teams, players and storylines to be excited about. Make sure to catch the games at the ‘Three Tuns’ or watch for free on BBC and iTV. We really are in for a treat.
