GROUP B

HERMAN GIBBS

GROUP B

There are rivalries aplenty in Group B that contains England, Iran, USA and Wales.

ENGLAND

ENGLAND are the favourites in this group, but in the run-up to Qatar endured a disastrous Nations League campaign that may have dented the confidence.

However, as Euro 2020 finalists and 2018 World Cup semi-finalists, the Three Lions have the recent major tournament experience to advance beyond the group stage. Their major source of goals will once again be captain Harry Kane (left), but impressive youngster Phil Foden will be hoping to lighten the burden on his skipper. England’s only World Cup success is, of course, their 1966 victory at Wembley Stadium, but the Class of 2022 will be hoping they can finally bring football home again.

IRAN

IRAN are the decided underdogs of the group. Team Melli have made five World Cup appearances and each time, they were knocked out at the group stage. This will likely happen again in Qatar.

In Russia, four years ago, they caused a stir in their opening game against Morocco by recording a rare World Cup win thanks to an injury-time own-goal. The experienced Carlos Queiroz (top right) will be at the helm and his objective will be to spring an element of surprise with each outing, particularly in their opener when they face group favourites England.

UNITED STATES

THE United States were not too convincing in the qualifying rounds, but the Americans will be fielding a youthful team packed with potential and will be considered England’s biggest threat in the group. The US are on the comeback trail in Qatar after missing out on Russia four years ago.

The Stars and Stripes’ preferred style of play requires pace and a sound passing game, and it might suit their young players. Many of the USA’s players ply their trade in Europe at some of the biggest clubs. This could prove a big plus for coach Gregg Berhalter’s team, who won’t mind the underdogs’ tag.

WALES

WALES have finally managed to make it to a World Cup - 64 years after their debut appearance. The Dragons open their group assignment with a testing tie against the US. After they play Iran, all eyes will be on the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium on November 29 when they take on England in a “Battle of Britain”.

Wales’ challenge will be spearheaded by veteran winger Gareth Bale (middle left), who finally gets to showcase his talent on the biggest stage. The team is largely inexperienced at this level, but they adopt a fearless approach. Wales achieved some excellent results in qualifying and will command respect from group opponents.