Group H is the most open group of the tournament with very team looking like a contender to not only advance but win the group.
Countries in Group H
Poland, Senegal, Colombia, Japan
Poland has Lewendoski up front and if he is on they look to be a tough team to deal with. Poland hasn't had a team this good since the 70's and 80's when they placed 3rd in the World Cup twice. While that is a high bar to reach they will be favorites to get out of their balanced group this year. Poland has the talent to surprise even in the knockout stages as well.
Senegal is playing some of it's best soccer in history and will look to parlay that into another appearance in the knockout rounds. This is only their second appearance in the World Cup and they had great success reaching the quarterfinals in their only other appearance. With Sadio Mane up front they will look to him to lead the team to the glory they had in their other World Cup appearance. While they have talent it will be tough to advance past a balanced group.
Colombia enjoyed their best run at the World Cup in 2014, reaching the quarterfinals. With James Rodriguez and Falcao, the high scoring and lively Colombians will be fun to watch again. In a balanced group Colombia will fancy their chances of reaching the knockout rounds again this year. If they can continue to play at a high level they will challenge in the knockout stages as well.
Japan has qualified for the last six World Cups and will look to reach the knockout stages for a third time following appearances in 2002 and 2010. With a sudden coaching change Japan seems at a crossroads. Nishino was just named the coach in April and has not seen good results since taking over. This team has talent and will hope it comes together at the right time to see them through to the knockout stages.
Here is how I see this group playing out
Poland
Colombia
Senegal
Japan
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