The world-cup/">World Cup is almost upon us. From June 11 til July 19, 48 countries will fight to become World Champions in the tournament held in the USA, Mexico and Canada.
The teams in the tournament have already been drawn into 12 separate groups. Group J contains Argentina, Austria, Algeria and Jordan, where the world champions will begin their defence of the trophy.
Here’s a preview of the teams hoping to make it out of Group J:
Argentina
It was a fairytale story as Lionel Messi finally got his hands on football’s greatest prize at the last World Cup – but could history repeat itself? This will surely be the final World Cup appearance for the man many consider the greatest to have ever graced the sport. How he would love to go out on a high.
After triumphing at the last tournament, Argentina should arrive at this one with far less pressure on their shoulders. They still have incredible talent at their disposal and will now be able to play with more freedom. However, it has been more than 60 years since a nation successfully retained the World Cup trophy. Still, they should make easy work of their group.
Player to watch: Nico Paz – the young playmaker has impressed tremendously in Serie A, since ditching Real Madrid for Como. This could be his breakout tournament.
Stage of elimination prediction: Semi-final
Austria
The Austrian national team seems to be entering a transition phase. It feels like a long time since stars like David Alaba and Marko Arnautovic were truly at their best. Nevertheless this will be their first World Cup appearance since the turn of the millennium.
With Ralf Rangnick in charge, they have a squad full of experience. However, it is a group that lacks a little excitement and a spark. Despite this, Austria have a real chance of reaching the knockout stages for the first time in over 70 years.
Player to watch: Carney Chukwuemeka – having played in the England youth ranks, the 22-year-old has only recently switched his nationality. He could be a valuable addition for Austria.
Stage of elimination prediction: Round of 32
Algeria
Algeria will compete at the World Cup for just the fifth time in their history. They missed out on the last two, but did make it to the Round of 16 in the tournament prior.
The north African side will arrive at the tournament in strong form. They won eight of their ten qualifying matches, comfortably securing their place. They have a number of top level players, although probably lack the depth to go far in the latter stages.
Player to watch: Riyad Mahrez – this will be the swan song for one of Africa’s greatest ever footballers.
Stage of elimination prediction: Round of 32
Jordan
Jordan will make history as they appear in the World Cup for the first time in their history. It is a huge achievement for the nation, after failing to qualify on their first ten attempts.
Reaching the tournament is already a massive success for Jordan, going any further would be unimaginable. Although their squad lacks the quality of other competitors, it is not impossible for them to defy the odds.
Player to watch: Musa Al-Taamari – Jordan’s captain, the winger is their only player that stars in a top European league.
Stage of elimination prediction: Group stage
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