Sorare World Cup Special - Part 2
Updated: Jul 20
We continue our journey with the Qatar World Cup overview with the next two groups. Two big contenders for the World Cup, are Argentina, and France. Both will be looking to win their group to avoid a possible clash in the knock-out phase. Although a Mbappé (PSG) vs Messi (PSG) in the knock-out phase would be interesting, to say the least.
If you are looking to form your SO5 for the Qatar World Cup, this might be an ideal time. Media coverage is fairly limited, the hype is still building. What tactic to use for assembling a squad is totally up to you. But beware, if you are unlucky, your player could only play three group matches and go back home which might not be worth the investment.
If you want a fun and light read or if you are still in the market for a goalkeeper, we did the research so you don't have to, let this summary help you.
Also, don't forget our other Sorare blog posts in this World Cup series:
Part 1: Intro and the rundown of groups A & B.
Part 3: Read our take on groups E & F.
Part 4: Group G & H
Part 5: The Conclusion
The Qatar 2022 World Cup countdown!
The Group stage:
Group C: Argentina, Saudi Arabia, Mexico, Poland.
Poland had to go through the play-offs to secure their spot in this World Cup, eliminating Sweden. Make a note in your schedule for 30th November. Lewandowski (Barcelona) vs Messi (PSG), the final group stage game. A game on the edge for Poland to go through the knock-out phase, as the second spot will be between them and Mexico. They have talent and experience under the crossbar with Wojciech Szczęsny (Juventus). Mexico doesn’t score or concede many goals — averaging just over one goal a game scored in their qualification, and they will hope that a compact game plan can prove sufficient to restrain group opponents. Guillermo Ochoa (América) played during the qualifiers and will probably play in the tournament, yet there are some rumors about a new goalkeeper. And it isn't a name you might suspect. Coach Jorge Campos is a huge fan of David Ochoa (DC United) and might add him to the roster, passing second goalkeeper Acevedo (Santos Laguna).
What will Messi (PSG) have in store for us in his, probably, final World Cup? The GOAT is turning 35 and it might be his last chance to add a World Cup Trophy to his immense list. Messi won't have to do it alone as there is a lot of talent in the team. Let's sum up of few names: Tagliafico (Lyon), Di Maria (Juventus), Lo Celso (Villareal), top talent Julien Alvarez (Man City), and many others. A lot of talent in goal as well, they've been playing with a few different keepers: Armani (River Plate), Rulli (Villareal), Emiliano Martinez (Aston Villa). Argentina is one of the biggest favorites to win the cup this year.
Saudi Arabia, one of the lowest-ranked sides in the tournament, isn’t the strongest and will struggle to match some of their more illustrious group rivals. Their goalkeeper, Mohammed Al-Owais (Al Hilal) won't be "keeping" them in the game. Our prediction: David: 1. Argentina, 2. Mexico, 3. Poland, 4. Saudi Arabia Tom: 1. Argentina, 2. Poland, 3. Mexico, 4. Saudi Arabia
Group D: France, Australia, Denmark, Tunisia.
Did you know: In the 2018 World Cup, France, Australia, and Denmark were all in the same group? The 4th in that group was Peru. France and Denmark advanced to the next round.
France enters as the defending champions and Les Blues will have a legitimate shot at repeating. Although they'll have to do better than they did at Euro 2022, where they got eliminated early against Switzerland. Didier Deschamps will have to make the right choices and keep egos in check. And do not get caught off guard by the Champion's curse. France could field two or even three sides to compete for the cup. I'll prove it by listing their world-class goalkeepers: Hugo Lloris (Tottenham) is the captain and still the first choice. Behind him are Mike Maignan (AC Milan), Areola (West Ham), and even Mandanda (Rennes). Quelle richesse.
Despite reaching the semi-finals of Euro 2020, the campaign was overshadowed. We all still remember the moment Christian Eriksen (Man U) suffered a cardiac arrest during their opening game against Finland. Burned into our retinas. Their goalkeeper still is Leicester legend Kasper Schmeichel (Nice). They have a good chance of getting the second spot in this group and will face the first in Group D, which is probably Argentina.
The North African team Tunesia, will look to progress to the knockout stages for the first time. They do have some thrilling players to look out for. Top talent and attacking midfielder Hannibal Mejbri (Man U) is one of them. Their striker, Wahbi Khazri (Montpellier) might be an unknown name for some but a force to be reckoned with. Their goalkeeper Bechir Ben Saïd (US Monastir), no cards minted.
The Socceroos were always fun to watch in the previous World Cup, however, their team seems to lack the talent or bravado they use to have. Tim Cahill (retired) anyone? I do rate their goalkeeper Mathew Ryan (Copenhagen), you might know him from Valencia or his spill at Club Brugge. Unfortunately, Australia will have a hard time getting past the group phase.
Our prediction:
David: 1. France, 2. Denmark,3. Tunesia, 4. Australia
Tom: 1. France, 2. Denmark, 3. Tunesia, 4. Australia