Group A: Qatar, Ecuador, Senegal, Netherlands
Objectively the weakest quartet, since Qatar was (by default) in it as the host country. As of April 2022, this national team was 48th in the FIFA ranking, it would have been in the last basket. However, the regulations put it in the first basket. Something extraordinary would have to happen for Holland not to finish first in the group by a wide margin. Senegal and Ecuador are likely to fight for the second spot. Qatar seems to be the clear outsider; the squad is made up entirely of home-grown players.
Group B: England, U.S., Iran, winner of joint 1
The fourth team in this quartet has not yet been determined. The Scotland-Ukraine match has been postponed until the summer, due to the geopolitical situation. The winner of this pair will face Wales, who beat Austria (2-1) in the semifinals of the tie. The clear favorite, of course, is England. It seems that even if Gareth Southgate releases reserve lineup in each match of the group round, his wards will take the first place without any problems. Bookmakers believe England as one of the main favorites for the World Cup. On its victory in the tournament offered odds in the region of 7.0 - 8.5. For the second ticket the other three teams have roughly equal chances. Everything will depend on the shape the leaders of their opponents will be in by the start of the mundial.
Group C: Argentina, Saudi Arabia, Mexico, Poland
One of the most even groups. "On paper, Argentina seems stronger than its opponents. However, it does not look as formidable now as it did a few years ago. The main problem is Messi's age. Since moving to PSG, Lionel does not show the Games that fans expect from him. Therefore, there will certainly be no easy walk for the Argentines. Mexico and Poland are at least as good as they are right now. The Saudis shouldn't be a points provider either, having won the AFC selection group with strong teams from Japan and Australia.
Group D: France, Denmark, Tunisia, winner of joint 2
The UAE, Australia, and Peru are contenders for the last spot in Group D. Regardless of who wins the tie, the quartet looks extremely predictable. The reigning world champions should have no problem taking first place. Bookmakers' shops regard the French as the main favorites of the World Cup, offering odds of 6.5 - 7.0 for their victory. Second place should go to Denmark, the Scandinavians are a head stronger than Tunisia and representatives of CONMEBOL and AFC.
Group E: Spain, Germany, Japan, Costa Rica/New Zealand
The only intrigue of this group: who will take first place - Germany or Spain. The players of the remaining national teams can buy their tickets home in advance at the end of the group stage. The difference in class in this quartet is extremely high. Only a face-to-face encounter between the two favorites can arouse the interest of a neutral spectator.
Group F: Belgium, Canada, Morocco, Croatia
Another predictable group in which the European teams look clear favorites and are 99% likely to make the playoffs. This is confirmed by the bookmakers' betting odds - Belgium and Croatia are offered very low odds to make the playoffs. Canada and Morocco can bet on defense and look for chances on the counterattack. However, it is unlikely to help them in matches against the favorites.
Group G: Brazil, Serbia, Switzerland, Cameroon
The ball-handlers should have no problem getting out of the group, even if they have to resort to rotation. Brazil has looked strong over the past few years and is considered the top favorite for the 2022 World Cup, according to all bookmakers. It should be a tough fight for second place. All three opponents are about the same level and have their own stars in the squad.
Group H: Portugal, Ghana, Uruguay, South Korea
"On paper, Portugal and Uruguay should take the top two spots. However, Korea's side should be able to put up a good fight. Son Heung-min has had another brilliant season, tying with Harry Kane for the APL goal+pass record. The Tottenham forward is capable of single-handedly deciding the outcome of a match. Therefore, Korea should not be discounted.
.svg "1xBet"){kind=small}
