It is widely agreed that the Netherlands are the greatest country to never win the World Cup with their history of all time great players, who begin play in North America in Group F along with some tough competitors.
Japan (FIFA Rank 18)
Embed from Getty ImagesEven without Kaoru Mitoma, who is missing the World Cup with injury, Japan still has a group that will contend for a spot in the knockouts, led by Daizen Maeda from Celtic at striker. Japan was the main reason that Germany was unable to qualify for the knockouts in 2022, topping a group that contained Germany and Spain. On top of having one of the best fanbases in the tournament, Japan has an underdog spirit to them that can get them through any team.
Netherlands (FIFA Rank 7)
Embed from Getty ImagesThe Netherlands have one of the most talented teams in the world, but the defense and physicality is what makes them go. Virgil Van Dijk is a monster, even at the age of 34. Jurrien Timber is great at Arsenal. Denzel Dumfries seems to score in every big game for the Netherlands. Players in Ryan Gravenberch and Nathan Ake add to the defense, scoring a goal on this squad is going to be near impossible. A rivalry with Argentina was reignited in 2022, with Argentina knocking the Netherlands out on penalties, but the Dutch would be looking for a rematch in the knockouts.
Sweden (FIFA Rank 38)
Embed from Getty ImagesThe Swedish team is going to be carried by two strikers, Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyokeres. Daniel Svensson and Lucas Bergvall are two good young midfielders that will be important parts to the team, but there is no way for Sweden to advance if the two up top don’t do their part, even with their subpar debut seasons in England.
Tunisia (FIFA Rank 44)
Embed from Getty ImagesThis is a veteran Tunisia team, one that has World Cup experience, and one that will be no slouch. The midfield stands out as the strongest part of the team, with guys like Ellyes Skhiri and Rani Khedira. The youngster is Hannibal Mejbri, who will be the main man in attack at 23 years old.
Official Prediction:
Group F has grit to it, the physicality will be on display throughout, especially with a squad like the Netherlands, who should win this group. Japan is also a level above the other two, and will make it through in second.
- Netherlands
- Japan
- Tunisia
- Sweden