Qatar 2022 Group A Preview

 

Okay, LOBers, it's time to get started thinking about the Qatar 2022 World Cup. Let's kick it off by discussing Group A: 

Prospects: As the host nation Qatar took up Pot 1 in this group, Group A is by definition the weakest group in the competition. This means that the Oranjemen on The Netherlands should cruise through the group without much breaking of sweat. The main drama in the group then becomes who will be the second side to qualify out of the group. Senegal's Lions of Teranga were knocked out in the group stage in 2018, but are an extremely dangerous on the break with one of the most potent strikers in world football Sadio Mane. Ecuador had a rocky and scandal ridden ride to the tournament, qualifying fourth out on Conmebol and having fielded an ineligible player. Finally, the less said about Qatar the better - they bought their way into this tournament and they'll likely lose all three matches. 

One to Watch: PSV Eindhoven winger Cody Gakpo was on Leeds' radar this summer and now has a chance to put himself in the shop window for the big clubs in the January transfer window. 

Most Likely to see Red: Qatari skipper Hassan al-Haydos will have his hands a bit too full. 

Most Likely to Attempt a "Panenka:" Ecuador's Moises Caicedo has learned the wrong lessons at Brighton.

Worst Haircut in the Group: Uruguayan-born Qatar striker Sebastian Soria is a big fan of the Alice band. 

Key Match: November 21 - Netherlands v. Senegal (11am EST) 

Blue Devil's Crystal Ball Says: The future is bright, the future is Orange.