The survivors guide for the World Cup 2018 – Knowing all the 32 teams

The World Cup is finally upon us and football fever is about to hit the nation. I have previewed every single team and analysed their strengths and weaknesses, and made a prediction for each team based on what I think. It should be a great month of football. Let the games begin…

GROUP A

RUSSIA

Fixtures: Saudi Arabia (14/6), Egypt (19/6), Uruguay (25/6)

Manager: Stanislav Cherchesov

Star Player: Mario Fernandes

Main Weakness: Injuries have left them short in key areas

Strongest XI: (5-4-1) Akinfeev; Fernandes, Semenov, Kutepov, Ignasevich, Zhirkov; Dzagoev, Zobnin, Golovin, Cheryshev; Smolov

It’s very unusual for the hosts of a World Cup to be so unfancied, to the point that many struggle to see Russia even making it out of the group. An exit before the knockout rounds would be seen as humiliating for them, but it is a real possibility. This is not the squad that proved such a stern test for England at Euro 2016, as since that tournament (where they also were knocked out in the group), the Berezutskiy twins have retired, leaving them with an alarming average age at the back – not an ideal situation for a team that plays three central defenders. Fernandes is an excellent right back and Spartak’s Kutepov will bring some much needed youth to the back line. However, it is the attackers that Russia’s hope lie on. The pace of Alan Dzagoev and ex-Real Madrid winger Denis Chervyshev will be crucial to any chances they have, as they hope to supply Fedor Smolov, who has to fill the shoes of Russia’s usual talisman Alex Kokorin, whose injury at the end of the season left an enormous dent in the nation’s hopes. Much of this group will come down to their game with Egypt, where Russia’s experienced, but slow, defence will attempt to stifle Egypt’s threat. For me, the hosts just about sneak through the group, due to a greater balance of quality in the team than Egypt, but they don’t have what it takes to get any further than that. On home turf, that will be seen as a disappointment.

Verdict: Round of 16 Exit

SAUDI ARABIA

Fixtures: Russia (14/6), Uruguay (20/6), Egypt (25/6)

Manager: Juan Antonio Pizzi

Star Player: Osama Hawsawi

Main Weakness: Creativity from midfield 

Strongest XI: (4-3-3) Al Owais; Al Shahrani, O. Hawsawi, M. Hawsawi, Al Harbi; Al Faraj, Al Jassam, Al Khaibari; Al Muwallad, Al Dawsari, Al Sahlawi

Saudi Arabia are the lowest ranked team that have qualified for this year’s World Cup. The 23-man squad is made up almost entirely of players from the Saudi league, with just three players plying their trade away from their homeland, and tellingly all of them are on loan. Their defence is pretty solid and they will look to commanding centre-back Osama Hawsawi, the poster boy of Saudi football, to marshal the back line. A concern will be the lack of flair and invention coming from midfield, with their main attacking threats coming from wingers Fahad Al Muwallad and Salem Aldawsari, both of whom were on loan in Spain this season, to Levante and Villarreal respectively. A solid and hard-working team, it is difficult to see them having enough quality to make it through the group stages, though in a group as open as this one, they could progress with a relatively low points tally. Remarkably, Pizzi, who has only been in charge since November after an acrimonious exit from Chile, who somehow failed to qualify, is their 40^th manager in just 30 years.

Verdict: Out in the group

EGYPT

Fixtures: Uruguay (15/6), Russia (19/6), Saudi Arabia (25/6)

Manager: Hector Cuper

Star Player: Mohamed Salah

Main Weakness: Goal sources other than Salah 

Strongest XI: (4-2-3-1) El Hadary; Elmohamady, Hegazi, Gabr, Gaber; Elneny, Hamed; Salah, Said, Sobhi; Kahraba

A nation whose love for football has been revitalised since the world-class form of Mohamed Salah at Liverpool this season. Salah’s injury in the Champions League final initially looked like it would keep him out of the tournament, but fortunately for the Egyptian people, their hero will travel to Russia and is facing a race against time to be fit for their first game. The hope is that he will definitely be available for the final two fixtures, meaning that they may look to play more defensively against Uruguay, something they are not averse to doing. It isn’t all about Salah though – Arsenal’s Mohamed Elneny is a fine holding midfielder, and they are technically good going forward, but lack a genuine number ten who can offer a different dimension going forward. Couple this with Salah missing for the Uruguay game, and a lack of attacking impetus anyway, Egypt will struggle to get anything from that first game, and there is a concern that if they don’t get anything from the first game Salah will be rushed back and under pressure for the following one. Sadly, I don’t see them making it to the last sixteen.

Verdict: Out in the group

URUGUAY

Fixtures: Egypt (15/6), Saudi Arabia (20/6), Russia (25/6)

Manager: Oscar Tabarez

Star Player: Luis Suarez

Main Weakness: Midfield quality

Strongest XI: (4-4-2) Muslera; Pereira, Gimenez, Godin, Caceres; Sanchez, Vecino, Torreira, Bentancur; Cavani, Suarez

Since the emergence of Suarez and Cavani as a fearsome front two, Uruguay have become a team to watch on the international stage, making the semi-finals in 2010 and coming through a group containing England and Italy in 2014. Their challenge in 2018 is somewhat similar to that of 2010, when they also had the hosts in their group, South Africa. Don’t be fooled into thinking that this team is all about Suarez and Cavani. As well as one of the most prolific strikeforces in the tournament, Uruguay possess a mean defence, with Atletico Madrid duo Diego Godin and Jose Gimenez providing excellent solidity and steel. The main area of concern is in midfield, where the lack of quality is startling. There are high hopes for Lucas Torreira of Sampdoria, but at 22 years old, there has to be question marks about whether he is ready to lead a midfield in the latter stages of a World Cup. They will hope that their quality at the business end of the pitch will be enough to comfortably see them through Group A, but the concern comes in the next round, when they are likely to draw Spain or Portugal. They will win this group, but I can’t see them putting either of those European giants out with such an average midfield, so a defeat in the first knockout round it is.

Verdict: Round of 16 Exit

GROUP A PREDICTION: 1 Uruguay 2 Russia 3 Egypt 4 Saudi Arabia

KEY FIXTURE: Russia v Egypt (19th June, 7pm)

 

GROUP B

PORTUGAL

Fixtures Spain (15/6), Morocco (20/6), Iran (25/6)

Manager Fernando Santos

Star Player: Cristiano Ronaldo

Main Weakness: Support for Ronaldo

Strongest XI: (4-4-2) Patricio; Cedric, Fonte, Pepe, Guerreiro; Bernardo, Carvalho, Moutinho, Martins; Silva, Ronaldo

The surprise winners of Euro 2016 arrive in Russia as a seed, and remarkably ended up drawing arch-rivals Spain, who for the first time in many years were not seeded for the draw. While there is a temptation to label this as the Ronaldo team (and this criticism wouldn’t be entirely inaccurate, Ronaldo scored fifteen goals in qualifying, six more than any other player), there is quality away from the main man in this squad. After all, with Ronaldo tragically injured in the final of the Euros two years ago, the rest of the Portugal team carried on and found a way to beat red-hot favourites France. This is testament to the resilience and teamwork that Fernando Santos has instilled in his squad, and makes them a match for anyone. The likes of Gelson Martins and Manchester City’s Bernardo Silva mean that there is goal threat from wide areas, but it all really comes down to Ronaldo, and whether he is firing or not. As one of football’s all-time greats, more often than not he does the business. I see Portugal getting through this group comfortably (the Spain game will dictate who wins the group) and I’d fancy them against any of their Group A opponents. However, at the quarter finals they could come up short against a squad with greater balance and share of quality.

Verdict: Quarter Finalists

SPAIN

Fixtures: Portugal (15/6), Iran (20/6), Morocco (25/6)

Manager: Fernando Hierro

Star Player: David De Gea

Main Weakness: Lack of genuine width

Strongest XI: (4-3-2-1) De Gea; Carvajal, Ramos, Pique, Alba; Busquets, Iniesta, Thiago; D.Silva, Isco; Costa

The unprecedented last-minute change of manager has caused pandemonium for the Spain national team, and has forced quite a dramatic rewrite of this piece. Fernando Hierro replaces the dismissed Julian Lopetegui one day before the tournament starts, and will be thankful that the talent at his disposal is so vast. The 2010 champions are still seething over their embarrassment of a 2014 campaign, but they look ready as ever for another tilt at the trophy. The emergence of Dani Carvajal has solved Spain’s long term right back problem, while the integration of Thiago into the starting eleven has given them extra energy and guile into an ageing midfield. With one of the very best goalkeepers in the world standing in front of a formidable defence, with full backs who are sensational in both halves of the pitch, it is hard to see Spain conceding many. The threat that the midfield and full backs carry mean that they could choose between Costa, Aspas and Rodrigo to start up top and see very little difference in any. The men who will provide the width will be Isco and Man City’s David Silva, both coming off of their best seasons to date. Isco in particular is a key man for Spain, if he can produce in Russia like he has for Real Madrid this season, it could be his tournament. I have them to make the final, but my concern is the age of Busquets and Iniesta means that they could be tired by the time the final comes around. It would be wise to use the likes of Saul and Koke as much as possible, to keep the big hitters fresh for the latter stages. We await to see how much the change of manager will impact them, but given the quality running through the squad, it is hard to believe that their chances would be too badly dented, especially given that they are almost certain to make it through their group. Despite the unusual situation, Spain are still very, very serious contenders for the title.

Verdict: Runners-up

MOROCCO

Fixtures: Iran (15/6), Portgual (20/6), Spain (25/6)

Manager: Herve Renard

Star Player: Medhi Benatia

Main Weakness: Serious lack of quality in midfield

Strongest XI: (4-3-3) Bounou; Dirar, Saiss, Benatia, Hakimi; Belhanda, El Ahmadi, Boussoufa; N. Amrabat, Ziyech, Boutaib

On paper this group looks like an absolute walkover for Portugal and Spain, but the European powers may be surprised by the quality that Morocco possess. In Medhi Benatia, Morocco boast one of the most successful centre backs in the world, while Aston Villa fans will be pleased to see their ex-midfielder Karim El Ahmadi as a crucial piece in the Moroccan jigsaw. The Premier League connections don’t end there, with ex-Watford winger Nordin Amrabat likely to start on the right wing. The squad is extremely hungry and athletic, and are not short of quality. Young Real Madrid full back Achraf Hakimi features, although Morocco deploy him on the left side of defence rather than the right. A similar story can be told with Wolves’ Roman Saiss, a key part in Wolves’ promotion campaign, who plays centre back for his country, but centre midfield for his club. The creative threat comes from Hakim Ziyech, the 25 year old winger who has won the hearts of Ajax fans this season and is being courted by many top European clubs. This is a squad which lacks an out and out defensive midfielder, and that could cost them, as could the lack of a genuine goalscorer. Morocco are perhaps one of the better African sides, though have little chance to get through their group as they have drawn two heavyweight sides. With a kinder group, they’d have had a very good chance.

Verdict: Out in the group

IRAN

Fixtures: Morocco (15/6), Spain (20/6), Portugal (25/6)

Manager: Carlos Queiroz

Star Player: Sardar Azmoun

Main Weakness: Goalscoring threat 

Strongest XI: (4-3-3) Beiranvand; Rezaeian, Montazeri, Pouraliganji, Mohammadi; Ebrahimi, Ezatolahi, Shojaei; Jahanbakhsh, Ghoddos, Azmoun

The team which gave Argentina such a scare in the groups four years ago return for more and are handed the unenviable task of facing two giants. The Portugal game will be a special occasion for manager Carlos Queiroz, formerly Sir Alex Ferguson’s assistant, as he takes on his home country. Iran are a notoriously well organised side who pride themselves on defensive stability, and remarkably went thirteen games without conceding in qualifying. When playing Portugal and Spain, they will look to replicate their heroic backs-to-the-wall defensive act against Argentina four years ago, until Lionel Messi scored a breathtaking goal deep into added time. Where they have less success is in the attacking areas. Their midfield is found wanting in creativity, meaning that their attackers rely on the full backs to support them going forward. Star striker Sardar Azmoun, who has been scouted by numerous English clubs, has been out of form for Rubin Kazan this season, but is still Iran’s best goalscorer, while the hopes of the nation rest largely on Alireza Jahanbakhsh, who has been in terrific form for AZ Alkmaar in the Dutch league this season, netting 22 goals. A very hard-working and pacy player, Iranians will look to him to get them a first win in the World Cup since 1998. A solid and effective unit, but Iran won’t make it through this group.

Verdict: Out in the group

GROUP B PREDICTION: 1 Spain 2 Portugal 3 Morocco 4 Iran

KEY FIXTURE: Portugal v Spain (15th June, 7pm)

 

GROUP C

 

FRANCE

Fixtures Australia (16/6), Peru (21/6), Denmark (26/6)

Manager: Didier Deschamps

Star Player: Antoine Griezmann

Main Weakness: Manager

Strongest XI: (4-3-3) Lloris; Sidibe, Varane, Umtiti, Mendy; Kante, Matiuidi, Pogba; Mbappe, Dembele, Griezmann

The French are still reeling from the loss on home turf in the final of the Euros two years ago, and for most of the country, the only way to get over that defeat will be victory in Russia this summer. France have almost certainly the most talented squad at the tournament, but they are let down hugely by their manager Didier Deschamps, who has proved his tactical deficiencies on a number of occasions. Despite having a top 4 Premier League goalkeeper, a Real Madrid and Barcelona centre back duo, three of the five most expensive players of all time, and a top five player in the world all in their starting eleven, France still aren’t fancied by many and a lot of that is down to Deschamps’ inability to get the team clicking. It still seems like he doesn’t know his best team – will they go 4-3-3 with football’s two most exciting wonderkids Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele supporting Griezmann, or will they go 4-4-2 with the ever reliable Olivier Giroud leading the line? Another area of concern for France has to be that Benjamin Mendy hasn’t played all season for Man City, so there may be calls for Atletico’s Lucas Hernandez to come in. Anyone who knows me will be rolling their eyes with a sarcastic ‘what a surprise’ when they read that I am tipping Hernandez’s Atleti team mate Antoine Griezmann to lead France to World Cup glory. The top goalscorer of the Euros has been in ludicrous form this season, carrying Atletico to 2^nd place in the league and Europa League glory. And while I am unashamedly Griezmann’s biggest fan – a top three player in the world in my mind – my thinking behind France winning the thing isn’t all down to him. Mbappe and Dembele (19 and 21) will be competing to be the best player in the world when Messi and Ronaldo call it a day, and both are hungry to kickstart their international careers with the biggest trophy of all. N’Golo Kante is the most athletic midfielder in the world, partnered with Paul Pogba, who always plays better for France than he does for Man United, and while full back areas are a concern, their centre back options look incredible compared to two years ago – Varane in particular has been superb this season for Real Madrid. Having said that, it is staggering that neither Clement Lenglet nor Aymeric Laporte were picked. Another baffling decision from Deschamps, as was the exclusion of Anthony Martial. Still, I think the talents of the playing squad will rise above their manager’s flaws, and be crowned champions of the world, 20 years on from Deschamps himself captaining France to their last World Cup. In 1998 Zidane scored twice and dragged his country to the title – my money’s on Griezmann to emulate Zizou and become France’s next footballing hero.

Verdict: Winners

AUSTRALIA

Fixtures: France (16/6), Denmark (21/6), Peru (26/6)

Manager: Bert Van Marwijk

Star Player: Mathew Ryan

Main Weakness: No reliable goalscorer

Strongest XI: (4-5-1) Ryan; Degenek, Sainsbury, Milligan, Behich; Leckie, Mooy, Jedinak, Rogic, Kruse; Juric

Despite drawing France, Australia will be happy with this group. As a squad they are devoid of quality, and needed a group where they would have a chance against two other teams for second place. The hope for them will be that France can pick up wins against Denmark and Peru, meaning that second place will become a mini-group between the three teams. There are some familiar names in the Australian lineup, including Brighton goalkeeper Mathew Ryan, who has enjoyed an excellent season for the Seagulls. Unfortunately for the Aussies, their quality going forward does not match this. Tomi Juric is likely to lead the line, and there are questions over his work rate, and he also lacks the necessary pace for high intensity games, which Australia can expect against Peru and Denmark. Their creative play will stem largely from Huddersfield’s Aaron Mooy, who will look to unlock defences with a killer pass. Don’t be surprised to see a large amount of play go through Mooy, who also has a decent shot from distance in his locker. This is a quality shared by Celtic attacker Tom Rogic, who will play as the most attacking of the midfielders. Rogic is an excellent dribbler, and is no stranger to scoring from outside the box himself. Mooy and Rogic will hope that Mile Jedinak breaks up play in front of the defence, allowing the more attacking players the freedom to roam without worry for defensive duties. At the back, Trent Sainsbury looks a solid defender, while Aziz Behich is a great attacking outlet from left back. There are some good players in this squad, but this is easily the weakest team in the group, and they will be relying on an unlikely win, and Peru and Denmark to take points off each other. Hard to see Australia making it through.

Verdict: Out in the group

PERU

Fixtures: Denmark (16/6), France (21/6), Australia (26/6)

Manager: Ricardo Gareca

Main Weakness: Pace in defence

Star Player: Jefferson Farfan 

Strongest XI: (4-2-3-1) Gallese; Corzo, Rodriguez, Ramos, Trauco; Tapia, Yotun; Farfan, Cueva, Flores; Guerrero

Peru come to Russia on a pretty remarkable run of 15 games unbeaten, during which they have won 10 of those matches. This is the first time since 1982 that Peru have qualified for the World Cup, and they look to have a squad capable of pushing for second place in the group. Their talisman is Paolo Guerrero, who will play up front for them. At 34 years old, it would be hard for him to feature in every game, but he is supported brilliantly by Jefferson Farfan, the Lokomotiv Moscow man who is likely to operate on the left hand side of attack. This means that Edinson Flores, a 24 year old with a lot of potential, could be pushed to play in central midfield to accommodate Guerrero and Farfan. Attacking midfielder Christian Cueva is a very neat passer and knows how to open up a defence. With regards to Peru’s defence, they severely lack pace in the centre back area and the thought of Antoine Griezmann, Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele charging at them is a worrying one for Peruvians. However, their defensive record is admirable recently, and they will hope to carry this on in Russia. Peru are desperate to prove that Group C is not a France-Denmark walkover, and they have the quality and team spirit to cause them problems. In Renato Tapia they have a gifted youngster who will sit at the base of midfield and look to unlock opposition defences. They have options to play 4-4-2 or 4-2-3-1, and have decent depth too, with Watford man Andre Carrillo likely to be an option from the bench. Peru will hope that Australia and Denmark take points off each other, and that France beat both of them, giving Peru a chance to qualify as runners-up. This is a team I am intrigued to watch, though I think they will come up short and finish third in the group. If they did make it out of the group however, they would face Argentina or Croatia – both of whom they have kept clean sheets against in their 15-match unbeaten run…

Verdict: Out in the group

DENMARK

Fixtures: Peru (16/6), Australia (21/6), France (26/6)

Manager: Aage Hareide

Star Player: Christian Eriksen

Main Weakness: Hugely lacking full backs

Strongest XI: (4-3-3) Schmeichel; Kjaer, Christensen, Vestergaard; Stryger Larsen, Krohn-Dehli, Delaney, Sisto; Eriksen, Fischer, Jorgensen

This is Denmark’s first tournament since Euro 2012, which seems surprising considering the talent they have in their locker. Their hopes are placed almost entirely on Tottenham wizard Christian Eriksen, who comes into this tournament on the back of an excellent campaign for Spurs. Eriksen’s dead-ball quality, coupled with his tremendous vision and range of passing made him a top class player, but the last twelve months have seen him add the number of goals to his game that now make him a world class player. Eriksen netted 11 goals in qualifying, finishing with a hat-trick to knock Ireland out. Denmark fans fear that not only does manager Aage Hareide not know his best team, but not even the formation he wants to play. He has switched between 3-4-2-1, 4-2-3-1 and 4-3-3 and it is anyone’s guess how they will line up in Russia. They possess talented young centre backs such as Jannik Vestergaard and Chelsea’s Andreas Christensen, but both are regularly left out of the starting eleven. Denmark’s full backs are nowhere near of the same quality, and as a result often play 3 at the back, with versatile wing backs. This can leave them vulnerable, but having a very reliable goalkeeper in Kasper Schmeichel helps. Feyenoord striker Nicolai Jorgensen leads the line for the Danes, and Jorgensen looks to feed off Eriksen’s wonderful supply. In Eriksen, they have a game-changer and a match-winner, and with this in mind, they should definitely make it through the group. The fixtures have worked out nicely for them too, playing Peru and Australia first, meaning they could (and probably should) be qualified by the time they play France. If France suffer from any nerves, Denmark could capitalise and grab top spot, but either way it is hard to see them making it past the last 16. Still, it will be a great improvement on missing the last two international tournaments. Could be ones to watch.

Verdict: Round of 16 exit

GROUP C PREDICTION: 1 France 2 Denmark 3 Peru 4 Australia

KEY FIXTURE: Denmark v Peru (16th June, 5pm)

 

GROUP D

ARGENTINA 

Fixtures: Iceland (16/6), Croatia (21/6), Croatia (26/6)

Manager: Jorge Sampaoli

Star Player: Lionel Messi

Main Weakness: Balance of squad

Strongest XI: (4-3-1-2) Caballero; Mercardo, Otamendi, Rojo, Tagliafico; Meza, Mascherano, Banega; Messi; Aguero, Higuain

And so we come to the runners up from four years ago. It’s now three World Cups in a row that Germany have ended Argentina’s hopes, so Samapoli’s men will be looking to avoid them in Russia this year. It’s amazing to think that Argentina almost weren’t at the World Cup, and it took them until the last game to qualify. 1-0 down to Ecuador, Lionel Messi scored a hat trick to drag his country – not for the first time – out of the mire. Looking at their squad, it is extremely top heavy, with an incredible forward line of Messi supporting two of the most potent strikers in the world – Sergio Aguero and Gonzalo Higuain. In fact their attacking options are so strong that Paulo Dybala, seen by many as the next heir to Messi’s throne, is very unlikely to make the starting eleven, and Inter Milan’s Mauro Icardi – 55 goals in his last 77 games – hasn’t even made the 23-man squad going to Russia! Despite the options they possess, it still all comes down to Messi. In Argentina’s qualifying group, Messi scored seven times, the next best for Argentina was three players tied on two goals each. This season has seen Messi lead Barcelona to La Liga and Copa Del Rey double glory, and coming off the back of one of his best seasons, the greatest player of all time will as ever be fancied to carry Argentina. For whatever reason, their other strikers, despite being prolific at club level, struggle to carry their form into international duty. Aguero has scored 28 or above for Man City every season since 2013-14, but has only scored four times in his last sixteen games for Argentina, while Higuain hasn’t scored for his country since December 2016. They might have the best attack in the tournament, but the rest of their squad is nothing in comparison. Argentina’s midfield is ageing and frankly, bang average. The defence has been improved by Man City’s rejuvenated Nicolas Otamendi, but Man United fans will tell you that Marcos Rojo is unpredictable. It is fair to say that for most football fans, if their country doesn’t win, they will want Argentina to be champions, so that the best player to ever grace the planet finally gets his hands on the biggest title of all, but I will be surprised if they get close. A ridiculously imbalanced squad, relying almost entirely on one player. I’m not even sure they’ll win the group. There’s a reason they very nearly didn’t qualify.

Verdict: Quarter Finalists

ICELAND

Fixtures: Argentina (16/6), Nigeria (22/6), Croatia (26/6)

Manager: Heimir Hallgrimsson

Star Player: Gylfi Sigurdsson

Main Weakness: Weak goalkeepers

Strongest XI: (4-4-2) Halldorsson; Saevarsson, Ingason, R. Sigurdsson, Magnusson; Gudmundsson, Gunnarsson, G.Sigurdsson, Bjarnason; Finnbogason, Sigurdarson

The conquerors of England two years ago have now qualified for their first ever World Cup. A huge achievement for them, quantified by the fact that almost 10% of Iceland’s population have applied for tickets to Russia. When tickets went on sale for the tournament, the first two matches to sell out were the final, and Iceland’s opening game against Argentina. Iceland’s support is fiercely proud and will be hoping that their never-say-die attitude translates to the players. Iceland’s preparation for this tournament has been far from ideal, they are without a win since October, and have conceded eleven goals in their last four matches. Their selection of goalkeepers is very poor, and this could be why they have been shipping so many goals in their friendlies. They have a defence and midfield which is characterised by its attitude and work rate. Experience is a key theme for this team, and at the back they have bags of it, though it is hard to see the over-30 players marshal the pace and technical ability they will face in this group. Going forward, their talisman is of course Everton midfielder Gylfi Sigurdsson. They will probably need Sigurdsson to be even better than two years ago to have any chance, and after a disappointing debut season for Everton, there are question marks over if he is in the form to contribute for Iceland. Aron Gunnarsson has played a role in Cardiff’s promotion to the Premier League, and he could be an important player for Iceland here, especially if they play a 4-4-2 formation. Alfreo Finnbogason has been in really good goalscoring form for Augsburg this season, and it could be he that becomes the talisman. While this side are hard-working and riding the crest of a wave with admirable team spirit, I can’t see them causing too much fuss in this group.

Verdict: Out in the group

CROATIA

Fixtures: Nigeria (16/6), Argentina (21/6), Iceland (26/6)

Manager: Zlatko Dalic

Star Player: Luka Modric

Main Weakness: Left back

Strongest XI: (4-2-3-1) Subasic; Vrsaljko, Lovren, Vida, Strinic; Badelj, Rakitic; Rebic, Modric, Perisic; Mandzukic

Remember the England era of 2004-2010? Whatever manager England employed, whatever system they played, they could never find a way to get the best out of Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard. Croatia have a very similar problem. It shouldn’t be labelled as a problem to have two of the best midfielders in the world, but much like those England sides of recent times, Croatia cannot seem to solve the problem of playing Ivan Rakitic and Luka Modric together. A friendly against Brazil last week saw Dalic utilise a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Real Madrid’s star midfielder Modric playing more advanced, in the number ten role, ahead of Barcelona man Rakitic who played deeper in a double pivot with Milan Badelj of Fiorentina. Their squad is good in all areas, with Atletico’s reliable but unspectacular right back Sime Vrsaljko a guaranteed starter, alongside Liverpool’s Dejan Lovren. They have a few options in midfield and attack, with youngster Ante Rebic, Real Madrid’s Mateo Kovacic and the experienced Inter Milan winger Ivan Perisic all options, while the 23 year old Marko Pjaca will hope that he has done enough to be considered. There are decisions to be made over the striker spot too, with Mandzukic, Kramaric and Kalinic all to choose them. Croatia are always referred to as dark horses and they are a very, very strong squad on paper, but the concern is that they will struggle to get them gelling together as a team. Much will depend on whether they can top the group ahead of Argentina, but I think Messi will drag his country to top Group D, just ahead of Croatia. If they could top the group, they will fancy themselves from there.

Verdict: Round of 16 exit 

NIGERIA

Fixtures: Croatia (16/6), Iceland (22/6), Argentina (26/6)

Manager: Gernot Rohr

Star Player: Wilfred Ndidi

Main Weakness: Defence looks very vulnerable 

Strongest XI: (4-3-3) Ezenwa; Balogun, Awaziem, Omeruo, Echiejile; Ndidi, Onazi, Obi; Moses, Musa, Iheanacho

Seeing Nigeria at Wembley in their recent friendly raised concern for the Super Eagles, they were shocking. This is a very youthful squad and the hope is that this youth will bring pace, athleticism and hunger to do well. Despite being a young squad, there is plenty of good experience in there, Victor Moses being key for this. The Chelsea auxiliary-full back is likely to player far further advanced for his country, allowing him to really attack without too much concern for defensive duties. There are plenty of Leicester connections too, with striker Kelechi Iheanacho flanked by Moses and Ahmed Musa, who struggled at Leicester but is lightning fast and makes up a very exciting and explosive front three. Nigeria will need to counter attack in order to fully utilise this pace, and so I think a 4-3-3 formation is best for them. The best player in this squad is Leicester midfielder Wilfred Ndidi. Criminally underrated, Ndidi has superb energy and vision, and is able to play a number of central roles. He will be important to their hopes. Interestingly, Ndidi didn’t play in the game against England when Nigeria looked so disorganised and frustrating. Nigeria’s defence is passable without being inspiring, but their issues are between the posts. Ikechukwu Ezenwa is 29 years old but has never played for a team outside of Nigeria, which is concerning. Nigeria will need to avoid defeat to Croatia, and then beat Iceland. It’s not impossible, but difficult to see. Still, at least they’ll get to play Argentina for the 3729020462195^th World Cup in a row.

Verdict: Out in the group (3rd)

GROUP D PREDICTION: 1 Argentina 2 Croatia 3 Nigeria 4 Iceland

KEY FIXTURE: Croatia v Argentina (21^st June, 7pm)

GROUP E

BRAZIL

Fixtures: Switzerland (17/6), Costa Rica (22/6), Serbia (27/6)

Manager: Tite

Star Player: Neymar

Main Weakness: Right back

Strongest XI: (4-3-3) Alisson; Danilo, Silva, Marquinhos, Marcelo; Casemiro, Fernandinho, Coutinho; Willian, Neymar, Jesus

It’s four years since the entire country of Brazil were devastated by their semi-final exit to Germany, on home soil. They were not just beaten, but embarrassed, 7-1. That game sparked a number of changes to the Brazil national team, starting with the manager. This squad is incredibly strong in all areas, and has a terrific amount of attacking talent, with Neymar leading the charge. Man City fans will be pleased to see Gabriel Jesus playing as the number nine, while Liverpool star Roberto Firmino is also an option. It used to be at the back where Brazil were poor, but this year, depth is something that Brazil possess even in goal, where they can choose between Roma’s Alisson and Man City’s Ederson, arguably two of the top ten goalkeepers in the world. They have great cover at centre back too, with Thiago Silva likely to be paired with either PSG team mate Marquinhos or Miranda. At left back, they can choose from the best attacking full back in the world, Marcelo, or Atletico’s Filipe Luis. It is right back where Brazil are a bit weaker – caused largely by the injury to Dani Alves. Even in midfield, there is depth. Casemiro will play deep and Coutinho will likely play as the most attacking of the three, leaving a space for either Fernandinho or Paulinho. If Brazil wanted to play both, they could have Coutinho on the right wing instead of Willian. If there is a weakness in Brazil’s style of play, they have had issues breaking down tight defences, something they will definitely face in their group. Still, they will have more than enough to comfortably qualify. I think they will come close to winning, but not quite close enough. Definitely one of the three favourites with France and Spain. If it had been this squad that competed at home in 2014, it would’ve won the World Cup at a canter.

Verdict: Semi Finalists

SWITZERLAND

Fixtures: Brazil (17/6), Serbia (22/6), Costa Rica (27/6)

Manager: Vladimir Petkovic

Star Player: Xherdan Shaqiri

Main Weakness: Weak midfield

Strongest XI: (4-2-3-1) Sommer; Lichtsteiner, Schar, Akanji, Rodriguez; Xhaka, Behrami; Shaqiri, Dzemaili, Zuber; Embolo

The Switzerland-Serbia battle for second place in this group (assuming all goes to plan for Brazil) is one of the most interesting subplots of the group stages. Two teams which seem remarkably well matched in all areas, and both possess star quality. The Swiss are notoriously difficult to break down, and have a mean defence. Arsenal’s latest signing Stephan Lichtsteiner is likely to feature at right back – bags of experience but at 34 years of age, could be beaten by the pace of the opposition. Fabian Schar and Manuel Akanji is one of the most underrated defensive partnerships at the whole tournament – both have potential to be top class centre backs, particularly Akanji. Ricardo Rodriguez is a very versatile player. Predominantly a left back, this was the man that was the most coveted young full back in Europe not too long ago. His career hasn’t taken off since then, but upon joining AC Milan he has become accustomed to playing LB, CB and CDM. The midfield double pivot is the weakest area of Switzerland’s team. If Valon Behrami starts, he is a safe but unadventurous choice – he will not provide much creativity at all. Arsenal’s Granit Xhaka is an unpredictable player, but has the tendency to be a loose cannon, and this could cost his country in Russia this summer. The 4-2-3-1 formation is effective for Switzerland, with hard working attackers joining immensely talented Stoke City winger Xherdan Shaqiri – one of Liverpool’s big targets this summer. Shaqiri is a game changer and can pull a piece of magic out at any time, as he showed at Euro 2016 with his jaw-dropping goal of the tournament. In front of Shaqiri could be Breel Embolo, the young star, or Benfica’s Haris Seferovic. It is so, so tight between Switzerland and Serbia for second place. They couldn’t be more evenly matched. In the end, I went for Serbia to finish second because they have a better spread of quality through the team, and can probably rely on one or two more high quality players than just Shaqiri.

Verdict: Out in the group

COSTA RICA

Fixtures: Serbia (17/6), Brazil (22/6), Switzerland (27/6)

Manager Oscar Ramirez

Star Player: Keylor Navas

Main Weakness: Ageing squad

Strongest XI: (3-4-3) Navas; Waston, Gonzalez, Duarte; Gamboa, Borges, Guzman, Oviedo; Campbell, Venegas, Urena

Costa Rica are unique in the sense that this is extremely similar to the 2014 squad which made the quarter finals and unfortunately lost on penalties. There are very few changes, which can be a good thing because of squad morale and the chemistry between team mates, but it is also a concern that as a country they are not producing talent to replace the old guard. Generally, this is quite an old squad which lacks pace. This will be key against athletic sides such as Serbia and Switzerland, even if they are willing to write the Brazil game off. Playing a 3-4-3 formation places emphasis on their wing backs to support forwards. Christian Gamboa of Celtic is very effective going forward, but is defensively lapse, meaning that the three centre backs need to be alert down his flank. Oscar Duarte is a very capable centre back as he proved for Espanyol this season, but their other centre backs are both 29 and lacking in pace. Deportivo’s Celso Borges will be key, he is the playmaker but in this formation can be tasked with too many defensive duties. Costa Rica’s friendly results have been poor too, an abject performance in a 2-0 defeat to England was followed by a 4-1 drubbing from Belgium. Costa Rica concede goals far too easily and don’t score enough – neither of their strikers are prolific, meaning that Arsenal reject Joel Campbell is their biggest goal threat. Not a position you want to be in.

Verdict: Out in the group

SERBIA

Fixtures: Costa Rica (17/6), Switzerland (22/6), Brazil (27/6)

Manager: Mladen Krstajic

Star Player: Sergej Milinkovic-Savic

Main Weakness: Inexperienced manager

Strongest XI: (4-2-3-1) Stojkovic; Rukavina, Ivanovic, Nastasic, Kolarov; Matic, Milinkovic-Savic; Tadic, Ljajic, Zivkovic; Mitrovic

Here we have a team that aren’t getting talked about much, and aren’t flashy, but are a very effective outfit, with a lot of players involved in English football. Serbia’s star is Lazio midfielder Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, who is being looked by all European heavyweights and is seen as one of the next big elite midfielders. A creative player with all the technical ability in the world, SMS will look to use this tournament to show his worth. Having an effective and committed defensive midfielder alongside him in Manchester United’s Nemanja Matic means that SMS is free to contribute in an attacking sense. Because of this, it may seem unnecessary for Serbia to play a 4-2-3-1 formation, but it is fluid and can transition in and out of possession. Dusan Tadic, such a crucial player for Southampton in recent years, will bring flair to the proceedings, as will Torino’s Adem Ljajic, a player who I’ve been expecting to announce himself as a star for years now. Ljajic will likely take the 10 role, meaning that Benfica’s Andrija Zivkovic is likely to start on the left wing. Zivkovic has massive potential and is a dribbler, and a speedster. All this quality means that Fulham striker Aleksandar Mitrovic will have plenty of supply. At the back, Serbia are experienced. Branislav Ivanovic was a staple of Chelsea’s early 2010s success, and is still a steady defender even now. Matija Nastasic has improved a lot since his Man City days, and his former teammate Aleksandar Kolarov has been a revelation since moving to Roma, and has a sensational cross in his locker. It is still incredibly difficult to call second place in this group, but I think that Serbia have a little bit more quality than Switzerland, and this will take them through. Their round of 16 tie would most likely be against Germany, who would be a mountain to climb. However, they did beat them at the 2010 World Cup…

Verdict: Round of 16 exit

GROUP E PREDICTION: 1 Brazil 2 Serbia 3 Switzerland 4 Costa Rica

KEY FIXTURE: Serbia v Switzerland (22^nd June, 7pm)

 

GROUP F

GERMANY

Fixtures: Mexico (17/6), Sweden (23/6), South Korea (27/6)

Manager: Joachim Low

Star Player: Manuel Neuer

Main Weakness: Left back

Strongest XI: (4-2-3-1) Neuer; Kimmich, Hummels, Boateng, Hector; Khedira, Kroos; Ozil, Müller, Reus; Werner

The team that can never be written off. It’s quite a different squad from the one which were crowned champions in 2014, with Germany legends Philipp Lahm, Bastian Schweinsteiger and Miroslav Klose all retiring. Despite that, this is still a technically very good squad, and a winning machine. They possess the best goalkeeper in the world, who hasn’t played for Bayern all season through injury, yet will be starting (as captain nonetheless) ahead of Barcelona’s Marc-Andre Ter Stegen, maybe the most in-form keeper of the season. That’s how good Neuer is. Historically Germany’s defence is the foundation that their success it built upon, and having Hummels and Boateng, who play together at club level and international level, is a huge advantage. Of the big teams, only Belgium and Brazil can also boast this. Left back must be a concern though – Jonas Hector’s FC Koln were relegated this season, and opposition teams should attack his flank. Kroos and Ozil will provide the creativity as always, while Marco Reus will finally make his tournament debut after missing the last two through injury. Timo Werner has been excellent for RB Leipzig for the last two years, but there are question marks over whether he is ready to lead Germany to glory – especially when Klose was so reliant on his World Cup experience in the past, and Werner is only 22. They will as always be close, but this is the weakest Germany have looked in a while, and are definitely beatable. Of the big four teams (France, Brazil, Spain and Germany), it is the Germans who I would most like to face.

Verdict: Semi Finalists

MEXICO

Fixtures: Germany (17/6), South Korea (23/6), Sweden (27/6)

Manager: Juan Carlos Osorio

Star Player: Andres Guardado

Main Weakness: Big game performances

Strongest XI: (4-3-3) Ochoa; Salcedo, Reyes, Moreno, Layun; Herrera, Guardado, Dos Santos; Jesus Corona, Lozano, Hernandez

Mexico are a team that you just know will be at the World Cup and usually fancy to be involved in good games. It was announced this week that Mexico, USA and Canada will host the 2026 World Cup, meaning that Mexico will be looking to bring through youngsters ready to compete in their home tournament in eight years’ time. This squad is talented and features a lot of technical ability, but there are questions over their bottle and mentality. In the big games, they have a tendency to capitulate. In the Confederations Cup semi final last year they were beaten 4-1 by Germany, and were 2-0 down after 8 minutes. Previously, Mexico reached the 2016 Copa America quarter final and faced Chile. They were beaten 7-0, conceding four goals in thirteen minutes. This issue with big games is further evidenced by the fact that Mexico have actually made it through their group at the last six World Cups, but on every occasion, they have lost in the last sixteen. This squad is talented and features Andres Guardado, a hugely underappreciated midfielder who has been superb for Real Betis lately, and is also Mexico’s captain. Mexico have several players on a similar level, Javier Hernandez is a fantastic goalscorer but there are doubts over his place in the XI, while Jesus Corona and Hirving Lozano are both excellent attackers. I think they will have enough to get out of the group, but a likely clash with Brazil in the next round will be where their journey ends. Six round of 16 defeats in a row, and I think it will probably be seven this year.

Verdict: Round of 16 Exit

SWEDEN

Fixtures: South Korea (18/6), Germany (23/6), Mexico (27/6)

Manager: Janne Andersson

Star Player: Emil Forsberg

Main Weakness: Lack of goal threat

Strongest XI: (4-4-2) Olsen; Lustig, Lindelof, Granqvist, Augustinsson; Claesson, S. Larsson, Ekdal, Forsberg; Toivonen, Berg

The retirement of Zlatan Ibrahimovic has changed the face of Swedish football forever. Ibra has led Sweden for a long time, and life without him will be very difficult for the European side. Without him, they lack goal threat and they lack game-changing ability that he would bring. Also, it was a case of having a world class player in an average team, and watching the positions he could drag them to. This means that they are likely to employ a 4-4-2 formation in order to give the strikers the best possible opportunity to score. Marcus Berg is an experienced striker, but is a free agent and there has to be questions about why this is the case. It will be a battle between ex-Sunderland forward Ola Toivonen and former Man City prospect John Guidetti to partner Berg. While all of these have played at a high level in their careers, none of them are currently doing this and it raises concerns about where goals will come from. Sweden’s quality is from RB Leipzig midfielder Emil Forsberg. Forsberg is a very creative player and has been an integral part in Leipzig’s rapid rise to stardom over the last two seasons. Sweden should be strong at the back, with Celtic’s right back Mikael Lustig next to £30m Man United signing Victor Lindelof. Lindelof will be partnered with Andreas Granqvist, an experienced defender who will bring solidity to the team. Sebastian Larsson was a creative force in his Sunderland days, but there are question marks about whether he still has this in him. Sweden probably won’t concede many goals, but they definitely won’t score many, and it will be a miracle if they make it out of this tough looking group.

Verdict: Out in the group 

SOUTH KOREA

Fixtures: Sweden (18/6), Mexico (23/6), Germany (27/6)

Manager: Shin Tae-Yong

Star Player: Heung Min Son

Main Weakness: Defence looks very vulnerable 

Strongest XI: (4-4-2) Kim Seung-gyu; Hong Chul, Jang Hyun-soo, Young-gwon, Park Jooho; Seonmin Moon, Ki, Wooyoung Jung, Seung-woo Lee, Hee-chan Hwang, Heung Min Son

South Korea are one of few teams which feature a squad almost entirely made up of players who play in their national league. Only five of Korea’s 23-man squad play outside of Asia. The undoubted star among them is Tottenham’s Heung Min Son, a terrific player who can play anywhere across the front line. Son is extremely hard working and can be relied on in goalscoring positions too. There are high hopes for Lee Seung-Woo on the other flank, who at 20 years old is comfortably the youngest player in the squad. Ki Sung Yueng of Swansea is a good midfielder, and his passing range will be important for them at this tournament. South Korea are likely to have too much for Sweden, and the key game will be between them and Mexico, where the group runners up are likely to be decided. I worry that Korea’s defence is vulnerable, especially to pace. Playing in the Korean and Japanese league is not great practice for a World Cup setting and the culture shock might be too much for the defenders in particular. South Korea’s hopes are resting almost entirely on one player which is always a concern for any team as it is an unhealthy position to be in. It will be very, very close, but I think South Korea will fall short this year.

Verdict: Out in the group

GROUP F PREDICTION: 1 Germany 2 Mexico 3 South Korea 4 Sweden

KEY FIXTURE: Mexico v South Korea (23^rd June, 4pm)

 

GROUP G

BELGIUM

Fixtures: Panama (18/6), Tunisia (23/6), England (28/6)

Manager: Roberto Martinez

Star Player: Kevin De Bruyne

Main Weakness: Previous international failures

Strongest XI: (3-4-3) Courtois; Alderweireld, Kompany, Vertonghen; Meunier, Dembele, De Bruyne, Carrasco; Mertens, Hazard, R. Lukaku

A squad which is made up almost entirely of English Premier League talent will hope that this year is the one they finally live up to their potential after a shocking quarter final exit to Wales in the Euros two years ago. Three of the best defenders in the Premier League will make up one of the fiercest looking back lines in the tournament. There are serious question marks over the backup for those three though, especially given Toby Alderweireld’s injury problems for Tottenham this season, and the Man City captain Vincent Kompany being notoriously injury prone. If they were to lose any of the three to injury, a change to a back four would be possible, but changing formation mid-tournament isn’t ideal. Player of the year contender Kevin De Bruyne will hope to replicate his Man City form on the biggest stage of all. Mousa Dembele will give De Bruyne the space to create and supply the immense attacking threats of Mertens, Hazard and Lukaku. Playing a 3-4-3 system means that Meunier and Carrasco will need to work hard in a defensive sense, but the immense quality of Belgium’s three centre backs means there is less pressure on them to track back. Belgium boast a spectacular starting eleven, but their squad depth in all areas is something which will trouble Roberto Martinez. The former Everton manager made the baffling decision to leave out Roma midfielder Radja Nainggolan of the squad, which could be a huge loss. It will be between them and England to top the group, which should be a tight game, and both will fancy their chances against opponents from Group H. Belgium undoubtedly have the talent to go far in this tournament, but for me they won’t be winners, as by the time they get to the latter stages of the tournament, their squad depth will hurt them.

Verdict: Quarter Finalists

PANAMA

Fixtures: Belgium (18/6), England (24/6), Tunisia (28/6)

Manager: Hernan Dario Gomez

Star Player: Roman Torres

Main Weakness: Age of the squad

Strongest XI: (4-4-2) Penedo; Machado, Escobar, R. Torres, Ovalle; Pimentel, Godoy, G. Gomez, Barcenas; Perez, G. Torres

Panama had one of the most dramatic qualifying campaigns of all the 32 teams in Russia, qualifying with a 1-1 draw against Costa Rica in their last game – with Roman Torres equalising for Panama in the 88^th minute, meaning that Panama (population 4m) qualified ahead of USA (population 327m). For Panama, qualifying for their first ever World Cup was such a big event that the President made the next day a national holiday. A good defensive unit who play a classic 4-4-2 system, Roman Torres is their leader at the back, who plies his trade in the MLS for Seattle Sounders. New York Red Bulls duo Michael Murillo and Fidel Escobar will contest for the other centre back spot. The main concern for the squad is the age – their strikers are 37, 36 and 29 respectively, meaning that the lack of pace could see them struggle in front of goal. Alberto Quintero was named in the squad and would’ve started on the wing, but picked up an unfortunate injury in the last few days, meaning that a key player for Panama has been lost. There is no pressure or expectation on them in this tournament, they are just here to enjoy it, and if they can get a goal or two, they will love it.

Verdict: Out in the group

TUNISIA

Fixtures: England (18/6), Belgium (23/6), Panama (28/6)

Manager: Nabil Maaloul

Star Player: Wahbi Khazri

Main Weakness: Lack of goal threat

Strongest XI: (4-2-3-1) Mathlouthi; Naguez, Benalouane, S. Ben Youssef, Maaloul; Ben Amor, Sassi; Srarfi, Khazri, Sliti; F. Ben Youssef

Here we have a very direct team who concentrate on being effective. The last two years have seen them become less flashy and flamboyant, and instead focus on playing simple football which achieves results. This is their first World Cup since 2006 and they will look to cause a stir while they can. Their hopes of making it through the group were dealt a massive dent when main man Youssef Mskani, record scorer, sustained a knee ligament injury, meaning he wouldn’t make the tournament. Manager Nabil Maaloul described this as akin to Argentina losing Lionel Messi. This means they are relying largely on two creative players. Naim Sliti, of French side Dijon, is a tricky winger with outstanding dribbling ability. This sometimes causes the rest of the team’s direct approach to falter, but when Sliti gets it right, he can be devastating. Their other outlet is Wahbi Khazri, once of Sunderland, likely to play as the number ten in a 4-2-3-1 formation, although can also be deployed out wide. Despite being devoid of pace, Khazri is a marvellous player with bags of creativity and vision, and can take a good free kick too. Defensively, they are lapse and can concede goals, but will be happy to play ugly in order to avoid this. Leicester fans will be familiar with centre back Yohan Benalouane, while their right back Hamdi Nagguez is a very capable player. Goalkeeper Aymen Mathlouthi is very indecisive and this is an area their opponents may look to exploit. Despite the odds seemingly being stacked against them, Tunisia managed a very creditable 1-0 defeat to Spain in their most recent friendly, where they held the Spaniards for 84 minutes, and were unlucky not to have a goal themselves. This is a decent but very unspectacular team who will probably finish third in the group. Tunisia will look to stifle both of them and it wouldn’t be a huge shock for them to come away with a 0-0 draw, which will be their target for the opening game against England. If Belgium and England play remotely like they can, Tunisia won’t have a chance to make it through the group though.

Verdict: Out in the group

ENGLAND

Fixtures: Tunisia (18/6), Panama (24/6), Belgium (28/6)

Manager: Gareth Southgate

Star Player: Harry Kane

Main Weakness: Square pegs in round holes 

Strongest XI: (5-3-2) Pickford; Trippier, Walker, Stones, Maguire, Rose; Henderson, Alli, Lingard; Sterling, Kane

Until a few weeks ago, the levels of optimism about England were down to the point that there was almost a disillusionment with the whole thing. However, two very bright performances in the final two friendlies have got people back on side, and there is renewed belief in this England side, who now haven’t lost a game in over a year. Gareth Southgate is a young, experimental manager and has taken the big call to play 5 at the back for this tournament. There is an argument that this limits what we see from Kyle Walker, who is likely to play in an unfamiliar centre back role. However, the attacking impetus and crossing abilities of Kieran Trippier counteracts this. There is no doubt that Jordan Pickford will start in goal, while Walker will be joined by Man City team mate John Stones, and one of Harry Maguire or Gary Cahill. Left back could be a problem area, with Danny Rose, who has missed most of the season through injury, or Ashley Young, who may not offer enough going forward. The word is that Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson will be the sole pivot in the team, meaning Eric Dier is unlikely to start. This could be a stroke of genius by Gareth Southgate, as he manages to get Alli, Lingard and Sterling in the team, which was my main worry about this formation. Raheem Sterling playing in a front two means we may not see his abilities in wide areas, and his finishing can be sometimes wayward. England have one of the world’s best strikers in Harry Kane, and if he can start the tournament well, then there is every chance of going far into the competition. There is reasonable squad depth, with Jamie Vardy, Marcus Rashford and Danny Welbeck all options from the bench. The Tunisia game will be difficult, but England should have no problem with Panama. The advantage with the draw England have got is that there is so little to choose between their potential opponents in Group H, meaning that there is less pressure on finishing top of the group, as both Group G qualifiers will receive a similarly challenging test. I think England will make their first World Cup quarter final since 2006, and their first Quarter Final of any tournament since 2012, but they may just come up short against Brazil or Germany.

Verdict: Quarter Finalists

GROUP G PREDICTION: 1 Belgium 2 England 3 Tunisia 4 Panama

KEY FIXTURE: England v Belgium (28^th June, 7pm)

 

GROUP H

POLAND

Fixtures: Senegal (19/6), Colombia (24/6), Japan (28/6)

Manager: Adam Nawalka

Star Player: Robert Lewandowski

Main Weakness: Extremely vulnerable defensively

Strongest XI: (4-2-3-1) Szczesny; Piszczek, Glik, Pazdan, Bereszyinski; Krychowiak, Linetty; Blaszczykowski, Zielinski, Grosicki; Lewandowski

The ridiculously tight Group H is headed by Poland, who somewhat surprisingly haven’t qualified for a World Cup since 2006. With a group featuring four teams of very similar quality, it will come down to individual brilliance. Fortunately for Poland, they have one of the best strikers in the world who they can rely on to score. The Bayern hitman netted a staggering 16 goals in 10 games during Poland’s qualifying campaign. It isn’t quite a one-man show, but it’s not far off. Without their talisman, Poland would be one of the least fancied teams in the competition, that’s if they would’ve even qualified. Away from Lewandowski, Poland can boast a strong right back in Lukasz Piszczek, and a high quality centre half in Kamil Glik. Whilst these are both very capable defenders, they are 32 and 29 respectively, and can definitely be vulnerable against pace, something they will face against Senegal and Colombia in particular. Their other star is Piotr Zielinski of Napoli, a creative midfielder who will be the main supply for Lewandowski. A few of Poland’s big names such as Pazdan, Krychowiak and Milik are coming off the back of seasons hampered by form and injury. Poland have an excellent goalkeeper in Wojciech Szczesny, and a good squad. I think they will get out of the group, largely because of Lewandowski, and then come unstuck against Belgium or England in the last 16.

Verdict: Round of 16 exit 

SENEGAL

Fixtures: Poland (19/6), Japan (24/6), Colombia (28/6)

Manager: Aliou Cisse

Star Player: Sadio Mane

Main Weakness: Goalkeepers are poor

Strongest XI: (4-2-3-1) Diallo; Gassama, Sane, Koulibaly, Sabaly; Kouyate, Gueye, A. N’Diaye; Mane, Keita; Sakho

It would be easy for people to make the mistake that Senegal are just a team relying on Sadio Mane, but that is far from the case. Liverpool’s left winger is a crucial part of the Senegal team, especially given their pressing and athletic system, but the quality doesn’t end with Mane. In Keita Balde Senegal possess a very versatile attacker who can play anywhere across the front three and take on any defender. Their midfield features names familiar to English football fans, with Everton’s Idrissa Gueye, West Ham man Cheikhou Kouyate and Wolves midfielder Alfred N’Diaye making up an effective midfield, but one seriously lacking in technical ability and creative flair. Because of this, Mane is likely to play the number ten role in behind two forwards, Keita being supported by Diafra Sakho, Mame Diouf or Mbaye Niang, all of whom have played in England. At the back is a defence headed by Napoli’s Kalidou Koulibaly, a tremendous centre back who is immensely difficult to get past, and almost certainly a top 10-15 player in his position. He will be partnered with Hannover defender Salif Sane, another bright talent. If Senegal are weak in an area of the pitch it is between the sticks, where none of the goalkeepers provide any assurance. This is easily the tightest group, and facing Colombia and Poland, two teams with top goalscorers, could be where Senegal are lacking. I think their inconsistency, and playing Mane out of his strongest position, could cost them a place in the last 16.

Verdict: Out in the group

COLOMBIA

Fixtures: Japan (19/6), Poland (24/6), Senegal (28/6)

Manager: Jose Pekerman

Star Player: James Rodriguez

Main Weakness: Reliance on James

Strongest XI: (4-2-3-1) Ospina; Arias, D. Sanchez, Mina, Fabra; C. Sanchez, Aguilar; Cuadrado, James, Izquierdo; Falcao

Colombia won the hearts of many at the World Cup in Brazil four years ago when they made the quarter final, getting nine points out of nine in their group and then dumping out Uruguay before a very late, and very unfortunate defeat at the hands of the hosts. Had Colombia held on against Brazil and made the semi final, it is almost certain that they would’ve put up a better fight against Germany than the Brazilians did. This year’s Colombia squad is much the same, although one key man this time round is Radamel Falcao, the Monaco striker who has scored 54 goals in 79 games over the last two seasons. The 32 year old was heartbreakingly injured before the tournament in Brazil and missed out, but will be a huge part of Colombia’s chances this time round. He can be very injury prone though, and this will be a concern. Having said that, they possess excellent backup in Luis Muriel and Carlos Bacca. 2014 saw the emergence of James Rodriguez, who was awarded goal of the tournament. The Bayern Munich star is back and ready to carry his team through a difficult looking group. Colombia can be very reliant on James, and this can lead often to their attacking play being incoherent and lacking direction, with a ‘pass to James’ attitude often taking over. One of the most intelligent attackers in the world, he will play as the 10 in a 4-2-3-1 formation, further forward than he plays for Bayern, which he will relish. Juventus man Juan Cuadrado will be on one flank, with Brighton star Jose Izquierdo on the other. Izquierdo is one of three players in English football likely to make the starting eleven, with Arsenal’s David Ospina in goal, and young Tottenham centre back Davinson Sanchez alongside Barcelona youth prospect Yerry Mina. Mina has endured a very difficult first season at Barca, and is under pressure to perform in Russia this summer. Santiago Arias is an excellent right back too, so Colombia are strong across the back line. I think Colombia will win the group, as they have the best spread of quality throughout their squad, as well as a world class star in James. How far they can go from there is anyone’s guess. If they get out of the group, a last 16 tie against Belgium or England would await, where I think they may just come up short, although they are a match for anyone in this tournament.

Verdict: Round of 16 exit 

JAPAN

Fixtures: Colombia (19/6), Senegal (24/6), Poland (28/6)

Manager: Akira Nishino

Star Player: Shinji Kagawa

Main Weakness: Scoring goals

Strongest XI: (4-2-3-1) Kawashima; H. Sakai, Yoshida, Shoji, Nagatomo; Yamaguchi, Hasebe; Honda, Kagawa, Haraguchi; Okazaki

We finish this preview with Japan, a staple of the World Cup. It took until 1998 for them to make their first appearance at a World Cup, but Japan have qualified for every World Cup since, and have made the last 16 twice, in 2002 and 2010. The squad features a core of players from European clubs, with a wealth of experience. They are an extremely hard working side and that is typified by centre forward Shinji Okazaki, who runs himself into the ground for Japan just like he does for Leicester City. The technical quality is provided from Shinji Kagawa, once of Manchester United, who will play in the number ten role. Playing a 4-2-3-1 formation eliminates the need for genuine wingers, meaning that Japan use national hero Keisuke Honda on the right of the three attacking midfielders, and Takashi Inui, who has just left Eibar for Real Betis, on the left. They play a fast passing game, led by Japanese legend Makoto Hasebe. At the back, Southampton captain Maya Yoshida is covered by very capable full backs, Marseille’s Hiroki Sakai to his right, and ex-Inter Milan left back Yuto Nagatomo on the opposite side. Japan don’t score a bagful of goals and this could be where they struggle against their Group H opponents. The main area of weakness in this squad though is the age, particularly of their big players. Sakai is 28, Yoshida and Kagawa 29, Inui has just turned 30, Nagatomo is 31, Okazaki and Honda are 32, while Hasebe is 34. Against a rapid Senegal side, a Poland team featuring a deadly striker and a very technical Colombia team, this lack of youth could be their undoing. Japan are a very likeable team and in another group they might be fancied, but they are probably just about the weakest team in this very close group.

Verdict: Out in the group

GROUP H PREDICTION: 1 Colombia 2 Poland 3 Senegal 4 Japan

KEY FIXTURE: Poland v Senegal (19^th June, 4pm)

So, to clarify. I’m predicting France to win the World Cup, Spain runners-up and England to make the quarter finals. I’ve tipped Antoine Griezmann for the golden boot (top goalscorer) and Isco to win the golden ball (player of the tournament). I hope you enjoyed my preview. Let the games begin…