Outsiders for the 2022 World Cup
As football fans prepare for the World Cup, anticipation is building for the first ever winter edition of the tournament, with Qatar becoming the first host nation from the Middle East. The hot weather and different date could add an extra layer of unpredictability to the tournament, and while many expect the likes of France and Brazil to dominate World Cup 2022 betting odds as favourites to go all the way to the final in December, it could be a year for the underdog.
The World Cup is known for its upsets, and with the final at the Lusail Iconic Stadium in touching distance at any point past the group stages, there are several dark horses who could upset the odds come December. With that in mind, let’s take a look at some of the most underrated teams heading into the 2022 World Cup that could be considered as outsiders.
Uruguay
It seems as if a new generation is being ushered in for South Americans Uruguay. With the likes of Edinson Cavani and Luis Suárez in the twilight of their careers, a new generation is set to try and take the World Cup by storm.
Diego Alonso has an exciting side at his disposal, with Liverpool’s new man Darwin Núñez finding his feet, alongside La Liga stars José María Giménez and Ronald Araújo — the latter though is still struggling with a shin injury sustained for Barcelona. In a tough group with South Korea, Portugal and Ghana, who will be out for revenge after the 2010 quarter-finals, it’s sink or swim for the Uruguayans as they look to thrive in Qatar.
Senegal
Another dark horse is Africa Cup of Nations champions Senegal. The African contingent severely underperformed in the Russia World Cup, with no side progressing past the group stage, but Senegal look to be the continent’s best chance. After a tough qualifying campaign which saw them narrowly beat Egypt for the second time in three months via a penalty shootout, Senegal officially booked their place on the plane for the Middle East.
Their biggest obstacle will be trying to top their group ahead of the Netherlands, also playing Ecuador and hosts Qatar. With a side of established Premier League players including Édouard Mendy, Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, and Ballon d'Or finalist Sadio Mané, could this finally be the year we see an African side make the final?
Spain
Back to Europe now, and Spain may have had their golden generation, but after underperforming in the last two World Cups, you feel their resurgence in form is long overdue. Luis Enrique has plenty of tournament experience, winning the treble whilst in charge of Barcelona, and after conceding just five goals throughout all of qualifying, they have a solid foundation to build on. While it might be too soon for the young squad, which includes Barcelona La Masia graduates Pedri and Gavi, to make an impression, there are still plenty of Champions League winners in the ranks to ensure a successful run for the Spanish in Qatar.
Image: Rhett Lewis, History of Soccer.
