The FIFA World Cup in Qatar is edging closer, and already people are discussing which nations have a chance of landing the biggest prize in football along with the teams which could be the underdogs in 2022
And while the runners and riders are often those at the top end of the betting odds, some countries could still pull off a shock along the way.
Teams That Could Pull Off A Shock In The 2022 FIFA Qatar World Cup, Biggest Underdogs
England
We’ll kick off our list with England, who, when looking at betting on the World Cup winner, are right up there. However, they haven’t tasted success on the international front since 1966, so for Gareth Southgate’s side to be victorious, it would still be quite the achievement. The Three Lions have been steadily building, with a semi-final appearance in the 2018 World Cup and then losing on penalties in the Euros to Italy last year. So, if they continue in this vein of form, they could be the team to beat.
Ecuador
Now, they may be well down the odds list if referring to sports betting sites. However, many experts have tipped Ecuador, including Brazil manager Tite. So, why should they be considered? Well, they have great talents in the likes of Moises Caicedo and Jeremy Sarmiento. And Gonzalo Plata is another who stands out. They’re a young side, but they lack fear. They’re pacey, physical and can compete technically. They’re also likely to be underestimated by opponents too, which could play into their hands.
Belgium
Belgium has been talked up a lot over the years. But they have often been the nearly men and not really cemented themselves as that dominant force on the international stage. However, in Qatar, it could prove to be their time to do precisely that. They have a star man in Kevin de Bruyne, who is undoubtedly one of the best players on the planet. And he can supply the ammunition for Romelu Lukaku, who will lead the line, and you’d expect him to be in the mix for the prestigious golden boot.
Netherlands
The Netherlands are a nation that used to be a dominant force, but their powers have since waned. It’s fair to say they’ve been going through a period of transition. But, now is the time for them to come back to the fore and announce themselves on the world stage once again. It’s not that they don’t have good players. They do, with Virgil van Dijk, the standout member of the squad. And they have a manager who has been there and done it, Louis van Gaal. After coming through a tricky qualification group, they will be confident of their chances of pulling off a shock in Qatar.
For many, it’s going to be one of the favourites who get their hands on the coveted Jules Rimet trophy in Qatar. However, this is football, anything can happen, and everyone will fancy their chances of winning. There have been shocks in the past, and it could happen again later this year, especially when you consider the conditions that teams will be playing in during the tournament.