Group B will be one of the weakest groups on paper, and would’ve looked a lot stronger if the Italians qualified, but there will certainly be chaos throughout.
Bosnia and Herzegovina (FIFA Rank 65)
If anyone is wondering why Italy failed to qualify for the World Cup for the third consecutive time, it was Bosnia and Herzegovina that knocked them out in the UEFA playoffs in a dramatic penalty shootout. The country’s all time top goal scorer, Edin Dzeko, is now 40, but will get to lead his country into a World Cup, and with a fun crop of young players to build around. Kerim Alajbegovic is an 18 year old star at RB Salzburg, scoring 9 goals in the Austrian Bundesliga this season, and will be one of the best players under 20 at this tournament.
Canada (FIFA Rank 30)
Another one of the host countries, Canada comes in with their best ever squad looking to use that momentum at home to their advantage. Injuries have been devastating to the Canadians this year, with their only ever World Cup goal scorer, Alphonso Davies, missing most of the season with various injuries, and will likely not be ready for the first game. On top of Davies, Moise Bombito, Alistair Johnston and Promise David are potential contributors that have missed time this year with injuries, but will be ready to go in Toronto for the opening match.
Qatar (FIFA Rank 55)
The 2022 hosts, Qatar has seen it all, playing in a Gulf Cup, an Arab Cup, an Asian Cup and even a Gold Cup since their last appearance in a World Cup. They are still looking for their first World Cup point, as well as Canada, and this would be the group to do it.
Switzerland (FIFA Rank 19)
Switzerland is the favorite to get out of Group B on top, and they have an incredibly well rounded squad. Manuel Akanji still has it at Internazionale, Granit Xhaka put up a great season bringing Sunderland back to prominence, Gregor Kobel is one of the better European goalkeepers and they have a great crop of attackers. Nobody sticks out as a superstar, but the top countries are going to have to give it their all to beat this team.
Official Prediction
Nothing jumps out in Group B, but is filled with a bunch of solid nations that have performed well at past tournaments. Switzerland will ultimately top it, but Canada and Bosnia and Herzegovina will be right there.
- Switzerland
- Canada
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Qatar