As the World Cup draws near, it's time to look at how the Groups could play out and what to watch for as the US sits at home lamenting a chance in Russia. I will look at one group a day and make some predictions on how it will finish and what each team will look like going into the Cup. After I finish the Group predictions I will predict the knockout rounds all leading up to the start of World Cup 2018.
Group A teams
Russia (host), Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Uruguay
This is slightly underwhelming group that could get really interesting. Both Russia and Uruguay will think of themselves as favorites and those two at first glance look like the easy picks to get out of the group. Now to go through the teams
Uruguay look like an experienced team ready to take the next step and compete for the championship. With Suarez up front and having a year of no antics that sets them up nicely for the World Cup. They will look to pounce on an easy group and prepare for tougher matches in the knockout stages.
Russia may be hosts but their team is not as strong as usual and could be punished for that in a group that has some countries ready to make use of a rare chance. Russia has not played well recently and it looks like they are failing to take advantage of hosting with a less than thrilling team. If they can get the fans on their side they still have the strength to make it out of a weak group but it will take a miracle for them to advance any farther.
Egypt is the most interesting country but has a huge question mark since Mo Salah injured his shoulder in the Champions League final for Liverpool. He has been one of the best five players in the world(maybe the best) this past season for Liverpool. If he is fit and in his top form, The opposing teams will have to look out for his speed and finishing and that could propel Egypt to the knockout stages. Egypt is also looking for their first win at the World Cup and if Salah can bring that back he will be a national hero.
Saudi Arabia has looked impressive recently even without a clear goalscorer in their lineup. If they continue that fine form they will look to pounce on the weak group and make it to the knockout stages for the first time since their first World Cup appearance in 1994. With all this said here is how I see things turning out in Group A.
All in All this should be an interning group to watch with three teams really fighting for the second spot in the knockout rounds. I won't be surprised by anything other than if Uruguay somehow squander a chance to win and get the first slot from this group. With the hosts and a star in Salah (if he plays) this group should be a fun one for everyone to follow.
If Salah participates
Uruguay
Egypt
Saudi Arabia
Russia
If Salah does not participate
Uruguay
Saudi Arabia
Egypt
Russia
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