Belgium
Odds to Qualify from Group: 1/10
Qualification: Belgium predictably battered their way through a fairly lacklustre group of teams in their qualification group. The ‘Red Devils’ went unbeaten, winning 9 of their 10 games and scoring a hatful of goals in the process. Romelu Lukaku scored 11 in the process, and despite the low-level of competition (Gibraltar, Estonia etc.), the Manchester United man and his teammates will surely head into the tournament full of confidence.
Injuries and Team News: In a rather stunning decision, Roma midfielder Radja Nainggolan was left out of manager Roberto Martinez’ provisional squad. Martinez suggested the reason was tactical, but it’s clear that he has issues with Nainggolan’s professionalism too. Nainggolan was not a favourite of Martinez’ throughout qualifying and only got the odd run-out, leading to outrage from fans who objected to his lack of playing time. In other news, Christian Benteke made the squad despite a poor season, and Michy Batshuayi should recover from a ligament injury to feature in Russia.
Projected XI (Taken from ESPN):
Belgium’s goalkeeper, back 3 and wing-backs look secure in their positions. Axel Witsel could fight with Mousa Dembele for a spot in the middle, or Dries Mertens could drop out and both could start with Kevin De Bruyne if Martinez wants a little more stability. It’s likely that Martinez keeps this formation and he’s used it in recent friendlies with Japan and Saudi Arabia.
Fantasy Potential: 4.5/5. Belgium are another top side with all kinds of fantasy prospects. At the back, Vincent Kompany offers threat from set-pieces. Thomas Meunier has been in and out of PSG’s side this season but managed 5 goals and 7 assists for the French champions in all competitions. Yannick Carrasco is a fantastic player but will likely be listed on most fantasy sites as a midfielder, whereas fellow wing-back Meunier will have more potential as he’ll likely be listed as a defender. De Bruyne was wonderful for Manchester City last season with a total of 21 assists, but the most explosive Belgian assets are Eden Hazard, Mertens and Lukaku. Mertens is a slight rotation risk and may be listed as a forward on various platforms, despite playing behind Lukaku. Hazard grabbed one more goal than the Napoli man in qualifying and takes penalties for his country so might be the safer pick. Mertens directly contributed to 34 goals last season for his club though, so does offer potential as a differential. Lukaku will be one of the most popular players in World Cup fantasy this year. He’s nailed-on, may take penalties (though Hazard appears to be first-choice) and averages a goal every other game for his country. Belgium face Panama in the first game, so a triple-up could reap big rewards if the team hit form early.
Prediction: Belgium have flattered to deceive in previous tournaments, so it’s time for them to step up and fulfil their potential. They will qualify for the round of 16 but only topping the group will cement their status as a legitimate challenger for the trophy.
Odds to Qualify from Group: 1/10
Qualification: Belgium predictably battered their way through a fairly lacklustre group of teams in their qualification group. The ‘Red Devils’ went unbeaten, winning 9 of their 10 games and scoring a hatful of goals in the process. Romelu Lukaku scored 11 in the process, and despite the low-level of competition (Gibraltar, Estonia etc.), the Manchester United man and his teammates will surely head into the tournament full of confidence.
Injuries and Team News: In a rather stunning decision, Roma midfielder Radja Nainggolan was left out of manager Roberto Martinez’ provisional squad. Martinez suggested the reason was tactical, but it’s clear that he has issues with Nainggolan’s professionalism too. Nainggolan was not a favourite of Martinez’ throughout qualifying and only got the odd run-out, leading to outrage from fans who objected to his lack of playing time. In other news, Christian Benteke made the squad despite a poor season, and Michy Batshuayi should recover from a ligament injury to feature in Russia.
Projected XI (Taken from ESPN):
Belgium’s goalkeeper, back 3 and wing-backs look secure in their positions. Axel Witsel could fight with Mousa Dembele for a spot in the middle, or Dries Mertens could drop out and both could start with Kevin De Bruyne if Martinez wants a little more stability. It’s likely that Martinez keeps this formation and he’s used it in recent friendlies with Japan and Saudi Arabia.
Fantasy Potential: 4.5/5. Belgium are another top side with all kinds of fantasy prospects. At the back, Vincent Kompany offers threat from set-pieces. Thomas Meunier has been in and out of PSG’s side this season but managed 5 goals and 7 assists for the French champions in all competitions. Yannick Carrasco is a fantastic player but will likely be listed on most fantasy sites as a midfielder, whereas fellow wing-back Meunier will have more potential as he’ll likely be listed as a defender. De Bruyne was wonderful for Manchester City last season with a total of 21 assists, but the most explosive Belgian assets are Eden Hazard, Mertens and Lukaku. Mertens is a slight rotation risk and may be listed as a forward on various platforms, despite playing behind Lukaku. Hazard grabbed one more goal than the Napoli man in qualifying and takes penalties for his country so might be the safer pick. Mertens directly contributed to 34 goals last season for his club though, so does offer potential as a differential. Lukaku will be one of the most popular players in World Cup fantasy this year. He’s nailed-on, may take penalties (though Hazard appears to be first-choice) and averages a goal every other game for his country. Belgium face Panama in the first game, so a triple-up could reap big rewards if the team hit form early.
Prediction: Belgium have flattered to deceive in previous tournaments, so it’s time for them to step up and fulfil their potential. They will qualify for the round of 16 but only topping the group will cement their status as a legitimate challenger for the trophy.
Panama
Odds to Qualify from Group: 9/1
Qualification: Panama qualified for the World Cup for the first time ever in 2017 – this was such an achievement that the country’s president declared a national holiday on the back of it. The US looked likely to grab the final automatic spot in the group but lost to Trinidad as Panama scored at the death against Costa Rica to deservedly sneak the final place. However, despite the fairy tale, it’s important to note that Panama won just 3 of their 10 qualification games and qualified with a negative goal difference.
Injuries and Team News: Panama named Roman Torres in their 35-man provisional squad. The Seattle Sounders defender has missed the last few domestic games through injury but should be ready by June. He scored the crucial goal against Costa Rica in qualifying and is an important part of the side. Coach Hernan Dario Gomez has no other pressing concerns as he looks to whittle his squad down to just 23 players.
Projected XI (Taken from ESPN):
Despite utilising a 4-4-2 formation during qualifying, Panama have been trialling a 5-4-1 as of late in preparation for the attacking prowess of Belgium and England. If they continue with this trend, Blas Perez may drop out and another defender step in. Predicting Panama’s personnel is tricky, with players such as Fidel Escobar, Adolfo Machado and Armando Cooper all pushing for starts.
Fantasy Potential: 1/5. It seems unfair to give such a low rating to the underdogs, but from a fantasy football perspective, they have very little to offer. Panama are happy to have got this far and are currently setting up to keep the score down. This doesn’t afford much potential for what will likely be a lone-striker with very little service, nor for defensive options as Panama face the talent-rich Belgium side in their first game.
Prediction: Panama will fight to the whistle, but ultimately finish bottom of the group.
Odds to Qualify from Group: 9/1
Qualification: Panama qualified for the World Cup for the first time ever in 2017 – this was such an achievement that the country’s president declared a national holiday on the back of it. The US looked likely to grab the final automatic spot in the group but lost to Trinidad as Panama scored at the death against Costa Rica to deservedly sneak the final place. However, despite the fairy tale, it’s important to note that Panama won just 3 of their 10 qualification games and qualified with a negative goal difference.
Injuries and Team News: Panama named Roman Torres in their 35-man provisional squad. The Seattle Sounders defender has missed the last few domestic games through injury but should be ready by June. He scored the crucial goal against Costa Rica in qualifying and is an important part of the side. Coach Hernan Dario Gomez has no other pressing concerns as he looks to whittle his squad down to just 23 players.
Projected XI (Taken from ESPN):
Despite utilising a 4-4-2 formation during qualifying, Panama have been trialling a 5-4-1 as of late in preparation for the attacking prowess of Belgium and England. If they continue with this trend, Blas Perez may drop out and another defender step in. Predicting Panama’s personnel is tricky, with players such as Fidel Escobar, Adolfo Machado and Armando Cooper all pushing for starts.
Fantasy Potential: 1/5. It seems unfair to give such a low rating to the underdogs, but from a fantasy football perspective, they have very little to offer. Panama are happy to have got this far and are currently setting up to keep the score down. This doesn’t afford much potential for what will likely be a lone-striker with very little service, nor for defensive options as Panama face the talent-rich Belgium side in their first game.
Prediction: Panama will fight to the whistle, but ultimately finish bottom of the group.
England
Odds to Qualify from Group: 1/8
Qualification: England qualified for the World Cup undefeated, with 8 wins and 2 draws. However, it wasn’t a straightforward campaign. They needed last gasp goals to win in Slovakia, to draw in Scotland and to beat Slovenia on home turf. They were less than impressive throughout but good enough to deal with the level of competition. After the first game against Slovakia, boss Sam Allardyce left in unceremonious circumstances and was replaced by Gareth Southgate. The ex-manager of England’s U21 team will now lead the ‘Three Lions’ into battle.
Injuries and Team News: Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere missed out on the squad and was vocal in his disappointment at being passed on. Adam Lallana had problems with his fitness this season so also didn’t make the plane. Other notable absences are experienced keeper Joe Hart, Manchester United centre-back Chris Smalling and Southampton left-back Ryan Bertrand. Wayne Rooney retired from international football in 2017 so England will go to Russia without the veteran centre-forward.
Projected XI (Taken from ESPN):
The goalkeeping spot is up for grabs. Jordan Pickford, Nick Pope and Jack Butland will all be competing for the number 1 jersey this summer. Manchester City keeper Hart, who spent the season on loan with West Ham, did not make the squad despite playing 9 of the 10 qualifying games. Southgate looks set to play 3 at the back this summer and again, it’s difficult to work out who he fancies as his best central defenders. Kyle Walker is a fantastic right back but may move central to allow Kieran Trippier the right wing-back spot. John Stones looks likely to start, but Phil Jones, Harry Maguire and even Eric Dier may take one of the other spots at the back. Bertrand was not selected as per the projected line-up so Danny Rose should fill in at left wing-back despite competition from Ashley Young and the versatile Fabian Delph. Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson looks a lock in midfield, but could be partnered by Dier, Jesse Lingard or Ruben Loftus-Cheek, a favourite of Southgate’s. Dele Alli, Raheem Sterling and Harry Kane are the preferred 3 going forward.
Fantasy Potential: 4/5. There are plenty of rotation concerns in this England side, especially defensively. However, they start with games against Tunisia and Panama so will fancy their chances of starting well. Defensively, picking a wing-back looks a good option as they will be finding themselves fairly high up the pitch in the first couple of games at least. Sterling is the standout pick of the English fantasy midfield options – he’s nailed on and delivered 23 goals and 17 assists in a fantastic season for Manchester City. Kane recently appeared to return to league football a little quickly after injury but if England can find a creative spark then there is no doubt the Spurs man will put his chances away.
Prediction: England will need to improve at putting away the smaller countries to avoid an edgy group stage, but they should get the job done eventually and finish 2nd in the group as a minimum.
Odds to Qualify from Group: 1/8
Qualification: England qualified for the World Cup undefeated, with 8 wins and 2 draws. However, it wasn’t a straightforward campaign. They needed last gasp goals to win in Slovakia, to draw in Scotland and to beat Slovenia on home turf. They were less than impressive throughout but good enough to deal with the level of competition. After the first game against Slovakia, boss Sam Allardyce left in unceremonious circumstances and was replaced by Gareth Southgate. The ex-manager of England’s U21 team will now lead the ‘Three Lions’ into battle.
Injuries and Team News: Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere missed out on the squad and was vocal in his disappointment at being passed on. Adam Lallana had problems with his fitness this season so also didn’t make the plane. Other notable absences are experienced keeper Joe Hart, Manchester United centre-back Chris Smalling and Southampton left-back Ryan Bertrand. Wayne Rooney retired from international football in 2017 so England will go to Russia without the veteran centre-forward.
Projected XI (Taken from ESPN):
The goalkeeping spot is up for grabs. Jordan Pickford, Nick Pope and Jack Butland will all be competing for the number 1 jersey this summer. Manchester City keeper Hart, who spent the season on loan with West Ham, did not make the squad despite playing 9 of the 10 qualifying games. Southgate looks set to play 3 at the back this summer and again, it’s difficult to work out who he fancies as his best central defenders. Kyle Walker is a fantastic right back but may move central to allow Kieran Trippier the right wing-back spot. John Stones looks likely to start, but Phil Jones, Harry Maguire and even Eric Dier may take one of the other spots at the back. Bertrand was not selected as per the projected line-up so Danny Rose should fill in at left wing-back despite competition from Ashley Young and the versatile Fabian Delph. Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson looks a lock in midfield, but could be partnered by Dier, Jesse Lingard or Ruben Loftus-Cheek, a favourite of Southgate’s. Dele Alli, Raheem Sterling and Harry Kane are the preferred 3 going forward.
Fantasy Potential: 4/5. There are plenty of rotation concerns in this England side, especially defensively. However, they start with games against Tunisia and Panama so will fancy their chances of starting well. Defensively, picking a wing-back looks a good option as they will be finding themselves fairly high up the pitch in the first couple of games at least. Sterling is the standout pick of the English fantasy midfield options – he’s nailed on and delivered 23 goals and 17 assists in a fantastic season for Manchester City. Kane recently appeared to return to league football a little quickly after injury but if England can find a creative spark then there is no doubt the Spurs man will put his chances away.
Prediction: England will need to improve at putting away the smaller countries to avoid an edgy group stage, but they should get the job done eventually and finish 2nd in the group as a minimum.
Tunisia
Odds to Qualify from Group: 4/1
Qualification: Tunisia edged out DR Congo by a point to automatically qualify for this year’s World Cup. They came back from a two goal deficit to draw with Congo earlier in qualifying and that hard-fought point was clearly vital in their success. They also amassed 4 wins and a final game draw against Libya to seal their passage to Russia. Former Tunisian captain Radhi Jaidi has claimed qualification may be a catalyst for positive change in the country.
Injuries and Team News: Tunisian manager Nabil Maaloul claimed not too long ago that the Tunisia team without creative force Youssef Msakni is akin to Argentina without Lionel Messi. Shortly after, Msakni picked up a knee ligament injury and was ruled out of the tournament. Striker Yassine Khenissi will also miss the World Cup after picking up a thigh injury. Ex-Sunderland winger Wahbi Khazri is the most recognisable name in the provisional squad.
Projected XI (Taken from ESPN):
The Tunisian side is pretty settled. With news that Khenissi will not be fit to play, the centre-forward spot is up for grabs. Ahmed Akaichi might take the role – he scored 12 goals at club level in Saudi Arabia this season.
Fantasy Potential: 1.5/5. With Msakni injured, it is difficult to pick out many players that have the creative ability to haul this Tunisian side out of the group. Khazri will likely come in on most fantasy games as a midfielder but will play in an advanced role for the ‘Eagles of Carthage’. He has been in good form for French club Rennes this season with 9 league goals and has taken recent penalties for his country so might be a budget enabler.
Prediction: Tunisia should pip Panama for 3rd, but are unlikely to progress to the round of 16 with key players missing and an uphill task against Belgium and England.
Odds to Qualify from Group: 4/1
Qualification: Tunisia edged out DR Congo by a point to automatically qualify for this year’s World Cup. They came back from a two goal deficit to draw with Congo earlier in qualifying and that hard-fought point was clearly vital in their success. They also amassed 4 wins and a final game draw against Libya to seal their passage to Russia. Former Tunisian captain Radhi Jaidi has claimed qualification may be a catalyst for positive change in the country.
Injuries and Team News: Tunisian manager Nabil Maaloul claimed not too long ago that the Tunisia team without creative force Youssef Msakni is akin to Argentina without Lionel Messi. Shortly after, Msakni picked up a knee ligament injury and was ruled out of the tournament. Striker Yassine Khenissi will also miss the World Cup after picking up a thigh injury. Ex-Sunderland winger Wahbi Khazri is the most recognisable name in the provisional squad.
Projected XI (Taken from ESPN):
The Tunisian side is pretty settled. With news that Khenissi will not be fit to play, the centre-forward spot is up for grabs. Ahmed Akaichi might take the role – he scored 12 goals at club level in Saudi Arabia this season.
Fantasy Potential: 1.5/5. With Msakni injured, it is difficult to pick out many players that have the creative ability to haul this Tunisian side out of the group. Khazri will likely come in on most fantasy games as a midfielder but will play in an advanced role for the ‘Eagles of Carthage’. He has been in good form for French club Rennes this season with 9 league goals and has taken recent penalties for his country so might be a budget enabler.
Prediction: Tunisia should pip Panama for 3rd, but are unlikely to progress to the round of 16 with key players missing and an uphill task against Belgium and England.
UPDATE (5/06/18): Belgium – Christian Benteke has now been cut as Roberto Martinez chopped five players from his provisional squad. Vincent Kompany recently had another injury scare but has made the squad. England – Gary Cahill grabbed a goal against Nigeria in a recent friendly – he’s another centre-back in the mix for the Three Lions. Tunisia – Ahmed Akaichi will not be taking Yassine Khenissi’s place up front as he has not made Tunisia’s final squad.