World: Essential Profiles

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World Cup Special
THE TEAMS
World Soccer’s definitive guide to the 32 finalists and their likely squad lists,
plus opinions, tactics and profiles from our global network of correspondents
The ultimate
guide to
World Cup
2022 10 Argentina 74 Mexico
14 Australia 78 Morocco
18 Belgium 82 Netherlands
22 Brazil 86 Poland
26 Cameroon 90 Portugal
30 Canada 94 Qatar
34 Costa Rica 98 Saudi Arabia
38 Croatia 102 Senegal
42 Denmark 106 Serbia
46 Ecuador 110 South Korea
50 England 114 Spain
54 France 118 Switzerland
58 Germany 122 Tunisia
62 Ghana 126 United States
66 Iran 130 Uruguay
70 Japan 134 Wales
PLUS 6
4 Keir Radnedge Introduction

5 Contributors
6 Samindra Kunti Global view
7 Books this month
138 World Cup bookazine
140 How they qualified
144 Stadiums
Qatar 2022…the first-ever
146 Schedule World Cup in the Middle East
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c0376237-aee6-40be-b0db-564dff3ef604 WORLD SOCCER 3

WORLD CUP 2022
“Human rights should play the biggest role in the awarding of a

tournament. If a country is awarded the contract that is one of the worst
performers in this regard, you start to think about the criteria used”
Germany’s 2014 World Cup-winning captain Philipp Lahm
FROM KEIR
RADNEDGE
Football has unprecedented length of time to
never seen question the country’s human rights,
anything like workers’ conditions and playing status.
the 2022 Qatar will be the first host nation
World Cup since Italy in 1934 (who went on to win
finals, which it) never to have appeared previously
are about to at the finals. However, multi-billion
kick off in Qatar. development on the ground has been
Nor, for that matter, has World Soccer. accompanied by progress on the pitch.
The most widely-followed sporting Qatar are reigning Asian champions
extravaganza on the planet will erupt and the lesson of history – whether
out of the Arab world for the first time. for World Cup or Olympic Games –
Also, for this reason, the Gulf state of has taught us that noisy altercations
Qatar will play host in the northern fade to the sidelines once the
hemisphere winter rather than the sporting action starts.
traditional June/July dates. World Soccer was launched in 1960
One of the fascinations will be and has thus reported on no fewer than
seeing whether European teams profit 15 of the 21 World Cups thus far. The
from taking on the rest of the world depth of coverage of these finals will
in mid-season freshness rather than expand on the popular pattern with 148
in a fatigue-ridden, post-campaign pages and more than 20 contributors.
finale. The “Big Five” leagues were The intertwined history of magazine
unimpressed by the FIFA-enforced and event demonstrate association
seasonal disruption, but the outcome football’s acceleration to sporting
could prove positive. monopoly. In 1962, some 57 nations
The original award back in entered the qualifying competition
December 2010 was one of the and Chile used four stadia to stage
most controversial in FIFA’s history 32 matches featuring 16 teams.
and the Qataris have had to withstand Qatar, smallest host country ever,
a barrage of antagonism. The 12-year will use eight stadia for 64 matches – World Soccer’s first World Cup – was
countdown facilitated construction of featuring 32 teams who have emerged live only in Chile and a handful of other
magnificent venues but also provided from the original 211-nation entry. South American regions. Transatlantic
a vacuum allowing critics an Television coverage back in 1962 satellite broadcasting was non-existent.
Final host…
Lusail Stadium
4 WORLD SOCCER c0376237-aee6-40be-b0db-564dff3ef604

“As captains we may all be competing against each other on the pitch,
but we stand together against all forms of discrimination. Wearing
the armband will send a clear message when the world is watching”
England captain Harry Kane on wearing the OneLove armband at Qatar 2022
greater hosting experience than many

might know. The Gulf state will be the Contributors
smallest nation ever to stage the World
JOEL
Cup, with a population of 2.9 million in RICHARDS
11,571 sq.km. This is smaller than 1930
host Uruguay with its 3.5m population SIMON
HILL
and 176,000 sq.km; so small that fans
may watch two matches in one day. Yet SAMINDRA
Qatar is no newcomer to the hosting of KUNTI
international championships ever since TIM
1995 when it stepped in at short VICKERY
notice to stage a FIFA Youth Cup.
MARK
Since then it has welcomed the GLEESON
FIFA Club World Cup in 2019 and
2020, and the FIFA Arab Cup last DANNY
LEWIS
December as a warm-up event for
the organisers. The Arab Cup final MARTIN DEL
was played in the 60,000-capacity PALACIO LANGER
Al Bayt stadium in Al Khor, which sees ZDRAVKO
the opening match on November 20 REIC
between Qatar and Ecuador.
JIM
In terms of the simplest issues, Brazil HOLDEN
are the record five-time champions who
are impatient to regain their place on the ADAM
WHITE
podium for the first time since 2002 in
Japan and South Korea. Germany, with NICK
four titles to their name, are focused on BIDWELL
trying to equal the Brazilians’ record. EMMANUEL
South American members of this unique AYAMGA
club include Argentina and Uruguay who
ADEL
each triumphed twice. European World FERDOWSIPOUR
Cup history is represented by England,
MIKE
champions as hosts back in 1966, Spain, PLASTOW
winners in 2010 in South Africa, and
defending champions France, who KLAAS-JAN
DROPPERT
also won it on home soil in 1998.
The only former champions watching DARIUSZ
Film recordings of matches, including from afar will be reigning European KUROWSKI
the final, had to be flown back to champions Italy who were eliminated TOM
Europe and broadcast two days in the European qualifying play-offs. KUNDERT
later; all in black- At one
JOHN
and-white. time, football’s DUERDEN
By contrast the The original award back in December leaders feared
2022 finals will 2010 was one of the most controversial that national VLADIMIR
NOVAK
be broadcast in in FIFA’s history and the Qataris have had team football
colour live around was fighting a SID
the world and
to withstand a barrage of antagonism losing battle LOWE
fans will follow the against a BRIAN
action not only via television but the rampant club game. Yet the ever- HOMEWOOD
modern wonders of smartphones, pads increasing popularity of the World Cup
JAMES
and a myriad varieties of computers. and the creation of a string of other NALTON
Accredited media ran into merely national team
several hundreds. The 2022 finals competitions MARK
PITMAN
will see around 8,000 accredited suggests the
media personnel from all around opposite. A As MATT
the world – plus many more non- the 2022 READ
accredited journalists – including many World Cup
of World Soccer’s most experienced finals will NEXT MONTH
and regular contributors. surely DECEMBER ISSUE ON
The stage is set in a land that has prove. SALE NOVEMBER 25

THE WORLD THIS MONTH
Samindra
KUNTI
GLOBAL VIEW
Football can’t keep ignoring human rights
On a snowy December afternoon in major sporting events and Protests…Germany portraying human misery caused
Zurich in 2010, FIFA’s Sepp Blatter their bidding races, except at players wore T-shirts by deceptive recruitment practices,
in protest against
awarded the 2022 World Cup to London 2012. Soon, allegations Qatar in March 2021 passport confiscation and wage
Qatar. The tiny Gulf nation had of corruption and collusion among abuses enabled by the “kafala” or
expended colossal resources in the the executive committee members sponsorship system. Those labour
lead-up to the vote by the 22-men dominated the debate. Ultimately, abuses extended to the majority
executive committee and defeated the 2010 vote would precipitate of Qatar’s migrant workforce and
the United States by 14 votes to eight the “FIFAGate” arrests in 2015. not just World Cup workers.
in the decisive round. With a typically By then, Qatar’s human rights In Arabic, kafala literally
astute but modest assessment, record had become a part of the means “guardianship”. It ties
the International Herald Tribune
headlined: “FIFA tilts soccer’s Last year, The Guardian reported that 6,500 migrant
future toward the East”.
The slogan and promise of
workers have lost their lives in World Cup construction
Qatar’s bid, “Expect Amazing”, and infrastructure work at large since 2010
bemused and incensed. Organisers
were questioned about a lack of public discourse. In 2013, The a “foreign” worker to a sponsor,
football culture in the host nation, Guardian published an investigation who yields “unchecked powers
the blistering heat in Doha, and into the shocking conditions migrant over migrant workers, allowing
Qatar’s discrimination of women construction workers endured in them to evade accountability for
and the LGBT community. Worker Qatar, toiling in the heat and living labour and human rights abuses,
welfare and labour laws were not in squalid camps. It kick-started and leaves workers beholden
mentioned at this stage, not even a decade-long deluge of media to debt and in constant fear
by international rights organisations. reports and investigations, notably of retaliation”, according to
They were never on the agenda of by Norwegian magazine Josimar, Human Rights Watch.

GLOBAL FOOTBALL INTELLIGENCE
BOOKS
THIS
MONTH
Five years ago, Qatar partnered German FA have expressed their Rights Watch. “Qatar is not fulfilling
with the International Labour support, but British newspaper the obligation of historical abuses.
Organisation to introduce a The Independent surveyed the We have to be very concrete now
nationwide labour reform that federations of the finalists with and not just sit and yell at the
abolished kafala and imposed a less than 100 days before the award 12 years ago.”
minimum wage. Nicholas McGeehan, World Cup and none had endorsed A breath of fresh air in the BRAZIL 1970
By Samindra Kunti
one of the founding directors of the PayUpFifa campaign. At the often conservative and stage-
(Pitch Publishing, £16.99)
human rights organisation FairSquare time of writing, Australia, Belgium, managed world of football officials,
Research and Projects, argues that Denmark and Germany were the Klaveness lamented the demeanour Brazil1970 is the
the reform remains a paper one. only four federations to invite of her colleagues. She said: “Many inside story of how the
In elaborate PR wars, the Qatari human rights groups to address leaders do not care enough. The greatest football team
organisers have always claimed their players directly. ethical standards for football of all time won the
World Cup in Mexico.
that worker welfare, in particular The indifferent attitude doesn’t leadership now are not good
Predicted to be drab
for World Cup workers, has come as a surprise but reflects how enough. Qatar is not the last and dull, the 1970
improved significantly. football’s leadership views the issue. issue. Where are we heading? World Cup became the
Last year, The Guardian reported At the Milken Conference, FIFA What are the sustainable football greatest show on Earth.
that 6,500 migrant workers have president Gianni Infantino said that values and so on?” Discredited after their
lost their lives in World Cup migrant workers gain pride from She is right, of course – the failure at the 1966
World Cup, the South
construction and infrastructure hard work. At the World Economic story of Qatar’s migrant workers
Americans rebuilt to
work at large since 2010, eliciting Forum in Davos, his close ally and does not end on December 18 ensure Brazil forever
a new wave of protest in Western CAF president Patrice Motsepe, a when the tournament will crown became synonymous
Europe that began snowballing South African billionaire, spoke of a new world champion. With Saudi with the global game.
when Norwegian club Tromso the workers’ “privilege and the Arabia, and perhaps China, seeking The triumph of Mario
called for a boycott of the Qatar excitement of employment”. to exert more influence in world Zagallo and his cast
of balletic players –
tournament. Asserting the correct “The Norwegian Football football, the sport’s future will
including lodestar Pele,
number of occupational deaths of Federation is fully behind the be riddled with more ethical the cerebral Gerson
migrant workers in Qatar, however, idea of complementing the existing conundrums. If the World Cup and the ingenious
is impossible because authorities remedies [for migrant workers in in Qatar will have a single, positive Tostao – was the end
attribute the majority to “natural Qatar],” said NFF president Lise legacy it will be that football and its of Brazil’s golden era.
causes” or “acute heart failure”. Klaveness in a recent panel custodians can no longer continue
But as the tournament discussion organised by Human to ignore human rights.
incontrovertibly drew nearer, the
tone of organisers became more
rebuking, rolling out the line that
those who criticised Qatar were
ill-informed and did not understand
the facts on the ground. Qatari
officials disputed the number of
World Cup migrant-worker deaths,
THE NEARLY MEN
stating the total figure between By Aidan Williams
2014 and 2020 was 37. (Pitch Publishing, £16.99)
Recently, Human Rights Watch
and other non-governmental The Nearly Men tells
organisations repeatedly demanded the fascinating stories
that FIFA and Qatar compensate of some of the most
revered international
migrant workers and their families football teams of all
for the human rights abuses that time: sides that could,
they have suffered. Football, however, and perhaps should,
has largely remained indifferent to have won the World
Amnesty International’s call for Cup. It’s a tale of
a comprehensive remediation frustration and
disappointment, of
programme of $440 million, the footballing beauty
equivalent of the prize money and lasting legacy, in
on offer during the four-week homage to the kind of
World Cup bonanza. greatness that isn’t
Brazil boss Tite, Netherlands defined by victory.
coach Louis van Gaal and the Human rights on and off the pitch…Norway players also protested against Qatar last year

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WORLD CUP 2022 >>> ARGENTINA
Messi’s last dance

Qatar presents Argentina icon Lionel Messi’s
last chance of winning the World Cup trophy
his will be Lionel Messi’s
T fifth and final World Cup.

His last shot at winning it.
The national team captain
has won everything possible at club
level, has capped his national team
Disappointment
...Messi inspired
Argentina to the
2014 WC final
more than any other player in history,

has scored more goals for his country
than any other and, after the 2021
Copa America, has now won a major
title with the national team.
But he will likely bow out from
international football after Qatar.
“After the World Cup I am going to
reconsider many things,” he has said.
Messi may no longer be in his prime,
but surrounding him is an industrious
and talented team that ensures he is
still the central figure for the Albiceleste.
to have great camaraderie off the pitch
Confidence is sky high in the camp as well as on it.
heading to Qatar. Argentina finished The run of results, the Copa America
second in the South America qualifying victory and the feel-good factor have
group, unbeaten, six points behind led to a growing tide of optimism back
Brazil. The run without defeat stretches home. Nevertheless, coach Scaloni
back to 2019, and includes the 2021 remains wary of the hype.
Copa America triumph against Brazil in In Scaloni’s backroom staff are
the final, breaking a 28-year wait for former national team heavyweights
major silverware. Pablo Aimar, Walter Samuel and
Despite the positive numbers that Roberto Ayala. The three were in
suggest Argentina are in form ahead Marcelo Bielsa’s 2002 squad that
of Qatar, there is a largely unanswered also bore expectation of mounting
question about how the side might fare a serious challenge for the title, but
in the latter stages of the competition. crashed out in the group phase.
In the past three years Scaloni’s team The pressure on the team is
have only faced two major European perhaps lower than it was in the
sides – Germany (2-2 in 2019) and past two competitions. Yet the Copa
America win changed
the narrative of recent
“After the World Cup I am going years and the run of form
to reconsider many things” has led to ever-rising
Argentina captain Lionel Messi expectations amongst
supporters.
Joel Richards
Italy (3-0 in the Finalissima this year).
Gone is the generation that lost
three major finals – the 2014 World LIONEL SCALONI Is there any danger that your
long unbeaten run might breed
Cup against Germany, and the 2015 overconfidence? Is there a chance
and 2016 Copa America finals against You inherited an Argentina team in you might have peaked too soon?
Chile. Along with Messi, only Angel Di turmoil after the 2018 World Cup. How You can always lose, and the example
have you managed to turn things around? of this is Italy, who lost a game and found
Maria and Nicolas Otamendi are still
There are so many pressures surrounding themselves out of the World Cup. We
in the set-up. the Argentina team. It’s very important to have to guard against something similar
And from the 2018 squad only five create a calm environment. Once you have happening to us in Qatar. The last game we
further players remain – Marcos Acuna, done that, everything is easier. And our initial lost – against Brazil in the semi-final of the
Nicolas Tagliafico, Paulo Dybala, Giovani objective was to find a way back to our roots, 2019 Copa America – was one of our best
to wear the shirt as if nothing else matters performances. This can happen in football.
Lo Celso and back-up keeper Franco
apart from playing for our family, our people. You can not play so well and win, and play
Armani. After the debacle at the hands Honestly, this part was easy, because the better and still lose. The important thing
of coach Jorge Sampaoli, in came the players understood and followed this is to keep focused on our objective and
highly-inexperienced Lionel Scaloni message, which is totally their merit. stay faithful to our idea of play.
who built a cohesive unit that appears

Last dance...Messi
will play at a record-
equalling fifth finals
So much of that idea revolves around in the last couple of years that this Mexico must bring back some memories.
Messi. What is it like to be his coach? process has really started. Yes, I remember how hard it was against
I no longer know what to say about Messi, them in 2006 [Scaloni was Argentina’s
there are no words left to describe him. What is your reaction to the South American right-back], when we won in extra-time
Everything he generates is unique, and it’s a World Cup draw and Argentina’s champions... with that wonderful goal from Maxi
pleasure to have him in the group. I only have opponents in Group C? Argentina won the Rodriguez. It was a very tough game.
words of gratitude. He’s a patrimony of world It’s a group full of difficult opponents. 2021 Copa America Mexico are historically difficult opponents,
football, and has to be cared for as such. Mexico are a difficult old rival that they have World Cup tradition
we know very well. Poland made and it won’t be easy. And we
Do you agree that he seems more it with a good win over Sweden start against Saudi Arabia,
integrated than ever before in and Saudi Arabia qualified well. in the biggest stadium. I’m
the Argentina team? We will respect them all, but hoping that Argentines can
Messi feels comfortable, we’ve managed we’re not happy or sad about come in sufficient numbers
to get the group to assimilate him as he is, our group. We have to focus to make us feel like the home
and he feels that he is one of the group. on ourselves and make sure side. Come and sing loud!
It should be normal always, but it’s only we’re as good as we can be. Tim Vickery

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> ARGENTINA
TACTICS SCHEDULE
PRE-WORLD CUP
How to see the best of Messi? Sep 23
3-0 v Honduras
(Miami)
Sep 27
caloni has consolidated a tightly- 3-0 v Jamaica
S knit group of players that offers

him variations. Over the course
of the World Cup qualifiers the
coach was able to switch players in key
positions as well as try out different
(Harrison)
Nov 16 v UAE
(Abu Dhabi)
systems depending on the opposition.

Against Italy in the Finalissima he
fielded a 4-3-3, while in the final of the
Rematch...Argentina
2021 Copa America against Brazil, Angel met Mexico at the
Di Maria played deeper in a 4-4-2. 2006 World Cup
Lautaro Martinez has established
himself as the team’s spearhead with GROUP GAMES
Nov 22
Lionel Messi playing off him. Scaloni’s
v Saudi Arabia
choices in attack are therefore how to (Lusail)
employ the likes of Nicolas Gonzalez Nov 26
or Julian Alvarez, and how far forward v Mexico
to deploy Giovani Lo Celso. (Lusail)
Nov 30
The characteristics of his midfielders
v Poland
also affords options. Leandro Paredes and (Doha)
Guido Rodriguez are anchors, with Rodrigo
De Paul and Exequiel Palacios playing
either in the centre or a box-to-box role.
In defence, Gonzalo Montiel and
Nahuel Molina on the right and Marcos
Acuna
Acuna and Nicolas Tagliafico on the
left will contest the full-back positions. WC qualifying Lo Celso Di Maria
Combative pair Cristian Romero and ...Lionel Messi
Nicolas Otamendi are the favourites celebrates with
Rodrigo De Paul Otamendi
to be the central defensive duo, but and Angel Di Maria
Lisandro Martinez may oust the latter.
E. Martinez Paredes L. Martinez
Romero
De Paul Messi
Molina
Spearhead...
Lautaro Martinez
THE VIEW FROM ARGENTINA COACH

“Argentina do not have lots of major Lionel SCALONI
Turnaround...
international stars but rather a solid team Lionel Scaloni Age 44 (16.05.78)
that protects Messi. They could beat any Appointed August 2018
European country but could just as easily
lose to any European side. There’s a good In the fallout of the disastrous
feeling in the camp, but also doubts over 2018 World Cup in Russia, the AFA
whether their best form has passed or if appointed Scaloni as interim coach.
they can go one step further in Qatar.” At just 40 years of age, he had no
Andres Burgo, Tiempo Argentino club or international-level coaching
experience. Fast forward four years
“Argentina are in form and have a clear and he has rebuilt the national team
identity. Their players are friends both while delivering results in the process.
on and off the pitch, and the coaching It was he who guided Argentina to
staff have grown into the role. Argentina winning their first major trophy in 28
are candidates for the title as long as years, defeating Brazil in the final of
the key players do not pick up injuries.” the Copa America at the Maracana no
Veronica Brunati, Telemundo and less. The side went on to set a new
La PrimeraJugada Podcast record of 35 games unbeaten.

THE SQUAD ● = caps, goals, clubs and ages (as of 15.11.22)
18 17 4 42 9 19
0 0 0 0 0 0
Franco ARMANI Emiliano MARTINEZ Geronimo RULLI Marcos ACUNA Lisandro MARTINEZ Nahuel MOLINA
River Plate Aston Villa (Eng) Villarreal (Spa) Sevilla (Spa) Manchester United (Eng) Atletico Madrid (Spa)
GOALKEEPERS
DEFENDERS
Age 36 (16.10.86) Age 30 (02.09.92) Age 30 (20.05.92) Age 31 (28.10.91) Age 24 (18.01.98) Age 24 (06.04.98)
Replaced Willy Charismatic shot-stopper Showing fine form in Industrious left-back Scaloni will monitor his Broke into the XI during
Caballero in goal in who earned hero status Spain, and the former who has been an progress in the Premier the 2021 Copa America
the 2018 group stage with his penalty saves – Estudiantes goalie will integral part of the League, and sustained and immediately proved
and remained first and trash-talking – in the provide back-up as the national team set-up form could bring him into himself a dependable
choice before losing Copa victory. Spent eight third keeper with Atalanta’s since his debut in 2016. contention. Has excellent option at right-back.
his place to Emiliano years at Arsenal before Juan Musso suffering a Started nine of their 17 distribution and can play His speed gives the
Martinez. joining Aston Villa. serious facial injury. World Cup qualifiers. centre-back or left-back. side real balance.
17 92 31 12 42 43
0 4 2 1 0 2
Gonzalo MONTIEL Nicolas OTAMENDI German PEZZELLA Cristian ROMERO Nicolas TAGLIAFICO Rodrigo DE PAUL
Sevilla (Spa) Benfica (Por) Real Betis (Spa) Tottenham Hotspur (Eng) Lyon (Fra) Atletico Madrid (Spa)
MIDFIELDERS
Moved to Europe older One of the side’s stalwarts, Experienced defender Expected to start as the Started all of Argentina’s Delivered for his country
than most players after approaching 100 caps, and who looks to have ousted first-choice central defender, games at the 2018 finals at the Copa America last
great success at River likely to be first choice in Medina, Perez, Martinez he combines ferocity in and boasts experience on year and continued to
Plate, winning the Copa what will be his last World Quarta and Senesi as the defence with distribution the left side of the defence. register assists for the
Libertadores in 2018. Will Cup outing. Previously of fourth-choice centre-back from the back. Impressive It will be interesting to see team in qualifying. First
challenge Molina for the Manchester City, Valencia, behind Romero, Otamendi since joining Tottenham how his move from Ajax to choice and all-round
right-back berth. Porto and Velez Sarsfield. and Lisandro Martinez. from Atalanta in 2021. Lyon affects his chances. midfield general.
15 41 7 20 45 25
3 2 0 0 4 1
Alejandro GOMEZ Giovani LO CELSO Alexis MAC ALLISTER Exequiel PALACIOS Leandro PAREDES Guido RODRIGUEZ
Sevilla (Spa) Villarreal (Spa) Brighton (Eng) Bayer Leverkusen (Ger) Juventus (Ita) Real Betis (Spa)
“Papu” is viewed as the A surprise omission After quickly making the Seen as one of the more Deep-lying midfielder Usually deployed as
heart and soul of the squad from the team in 2018 step up from the Argentine complete midfielders in the expected to pick out a substitute to see out
but is likely to play only a after making the 23-man league to the Premier squad. Strong and classy, he passes while providing games in qualifying, but
secondary role in Qatar. squad, so will view this as League, Scaloni swiftly is on stand-by for Lo Celso cover for forwards. Has could yet play himself into
Enjoyed seven wonderful his opportunity to make promoted him from the or De Paul, but a hamstring good experience having contention for a place in
seasons at Atalanta before an impact. Failed to make U23s. Excellent set-piece injury has opened the door played in Argentina, Italy, the starting XI as the
signing for Sevilla in 2021. the grade at Tottenham. taker and penalty expert. for Almada and Fernandez. Russia and France. holding midfielder.
11 22 18 123 34 21
2 3 3 25 3 3
Julian ALVAREZ Angel CORREA Joaquin CORREA Angel DI MARIA Paulo DYBALA Nicolas GONZALEZ
Manchester City (Eng) Atletico Madrid (Spa) Internazionale (Ita) Juventus (Ita) Roma (Ita) Fiorentina (Ita)
FORWARDS
Back-up for Lautaro Form at Atletico Madrid Limited role in qualifying. Scoring the winning Rediscovering his form Wide forward and one
Martinez but can play keeps him in contention, Provides further cover goal against Brazil in the at Roma will put him in of Scaloni’s favourites.
out wide too. Scored but he has yet to break for Lautaro Martinez, Copa America crowned his contention, but has never Featured in 11 World
a double hat-trick for into the starting XI. Seems although he can also be international career. The quite replicated his club Cup qualifiers and started
River Plate in the Copa likely to retain his role deployed as a deep-lying winger will retire from form for his country. four of Argentina’s seven
Libertadores before as an impact substitute forward, supporting international football Missed out on the 2021 games at the triumphant
moving to England. in Qatar this winter. striker or left-winger. after the World Cup. Copa America victory. Copa America finals.
40 164
21 90
ALSO IN CONTENTION
GOALKEEPERS Esteban ANDRADA (Monterrey, Mex), Juan MUSSO (Atalanta, Ita)
DEFENDERS Juan FOYTH (Villarreal, Spa), Lucas MARTINEZ QUARTA (Fiorentina, Ita),
Lautaro MARTINEZ Lionel MESSI Facundo MEDINA (Lens, Fra), Nehuen PEREZ (Udinese, Ita), Marcos SENESI (Bournemouth, Eng)
Internazionale (Ita) Paris Saint-Germain (Fra)
Age 25 (22.08.97) Age 35 (24.06.87) MIDFIELDERS Thiago ALMADA (Atlanta United, USA), Emiliano BUENDIA (Aston Villa, Eng),
Grabbed seven goals The captain is the all-time Nicolas DOMINGUEZ (Bologna, Ita), Enzo FERNANDEZ (Benfica, Por), Manuel LANZINI (West
in World Cup qualifying top scorer for his country Ham United, Eng), Maximiliano MEZA (Monterrey, Mex), Lucas OCAMPOS (Ajax, Ned)
– equalling Lionel Messi’s and still the player the
tally – and averages a goal team is built around. FORWARDS Lucas ALARIO (Eintracht Frankfurt, Ger), Lucas BOYE
every other game under Will be featuring at a (Elche, Spa), Giovanni SIMEONE (Napoli, Ita)
Scaloni. A guaranteed joint-record fifth World
starter in the No.9 role. Cup finals in Qatar.

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> AUSTRALIA
Low expectations
An underwhelming qualifying campaign and
tough draw leaves the Socceroos up against it
nother tortuous qualifying
A campaign ended in a
success that surprised
many, as Peru were
dispatched on penalties in the
inter-confederational play-offs.
Shootout success...
Australia players
celebrate after
beating Peru
Coach Graham Arnold made the

biggest call of his career by substituting
Andrew Redmayne on for the shootout,
in place of first-choice goalkeeper Mat
Ryan. Had it gone awry, then Arnold’s
tenure would have ended. In truth,
he barely survived after missing
out on automatic qualification.
So, just to be at Qatar is a bonus,
even if expectations aren’t particularly
high, especially as the Socceroos have
been grouped with France and
Denmark along with Tunisia. but arguably the nation’s most talented
But it is to Arnold’s credit that he player only secured his new club - West
managed to lift his players at the right Bromwich Albion - two months before
time for the play-offs and, while nobody the finals. Rogic missed the play-offs for
seriously believes this vintage is a patchunknown reasons, and has been told by
on the “golden generation” of 2006, Arnold to get regular games or risk
there is some talent in the squad. missing the World Cup.
In particular goalkeeper and regular With or without Rogic, finding a
captain Mat Ryan, who should benefit regular goalscorer in the mould of the
from a move to FC Copenhagen, which now-retired Tim Cahill remains one issue
will give him the regular football he has Arnold must resolve. Boyle, Mooy, Rogic,
been missing in recent years. Aaron Hrustic and Jackson Irvine all contribute
Mooy’s renaissance as a midfielder at various times, but the central striking
with Celtic should help too – Mooy was role has alternated between Jamie
excellent in controlling the midfield Maclaren, Adam Taggart, Mat Leckie
against Peru, despite being seriously and, on occasion, Mitch Duke. None
underdone in terms of competitive have delivered regularly, which led
Arnold to call
up naturalised
Just to be at Qatar is a bonus, even if Uruguayan Bruno
expectations aren’t particularly high, Fornaroli for the
especially as the Socceroos have been crunch qualifiers
versus Japan and
grouped with France and Denmark Saudi Arabia.
Simon Hill
minutes at club level with his previous
employers Shanghai Port.
Ajdin Hrustic won the Europa League GRAHAM ARNOLD of our game against Uruguay back in 2006
when we also won in a penalty shootout.
with Eintracht Frankfurt, Denis Genreau
has been promoted to Ligue 1 with What are your reflections on the qualifiers You spoke a lot about the Aussie DNA in
Toulouse, and Awer Mabil has become and the dramatic play-off against Peru? the week leading up to the Peru game.
It was a very difficult campaign for the way What is the Aussie DNA in your view?
that rarest of beasts – an Aussie playing
Australia as a country dealt with COVID-19. In the past, players like Mark Viduka, Harry
in La Liga, after moving to Cadiz. Martin We played 16 out of 20 World Cup qualifiers Kewell and Tim Cahill were top-class players,
Boyle has also returned to Hibernian. away from home. We had the experience of but they had this mentality of winning at all
Indeed, Scotland is now home to a host four or five games in Qatar before Peru, so we costs. Run till you drop, fight, kick and scratch
of young Australians, with clubs perhaps felt like it was a home away from home for us. for every ball. They liked to turn a game of
For Peru, it was probably their first game in football into an individual battle. It was a
more willing to invest in talent from
Qatar. Today, my reflection is that we prepared physical and mental battle that has been
Down Under thanks to the success very well off the field and that helped the reminiscent of Australia for many decades;
of Ange Postecoglou. performance on it. It was a great achievement that we like to be underdogs. We like to be
Tom Rogic, however, has departed beating Peru on penalties. It was reminiscent written off. We like to have our backs up
Scottish shores after a decade at Celtic,

Dejected...Australia
players after losing to
Japan in qualifying
against the wall and come out fighting. People in Australia are calling it the group of What should Australia’s ambition or
death. I call it the group of dreams because realistic goal be at the World Cup?
Against Peru, Tom Rogic didn’t play. Is there’s nothing better than to be able to play My goal is to make the nation proud.
he still part of your World Cup plans? against the world champions. We have a lot Australia have only won two World Cup
Tommy is still part of our plans. He didn’t of respect for the French, but I also have a games in the history of men’s football.
retire, he didn’t say he never wanted to play lot of belief in our players. It’s the first game One was against Japan in 2006, when I
for the Socceroos again. He has personal of the World Cup for both teams and we will Creativity...Tom Rogic was an assistant to Guus Hiddink, and the
issues and those sometimes come up in give it our best shot. Denmark are other was with Pim Verbeek
players’ lives. Tommy has always been great in very good form. As an African against Serbia. I was with him
for Australia, he brings a lot of creativity to nation, Tunisia are a bit unknown as well in 2010. So my goal is
the team, he brings something different that to us, but we will get a lot of detail to win a game or two and get
a lot of our other boys don’t have. We’re just over the next few months from to the last 16. People might
waiting for Tommy to play for his new club my analysts. We will look at all think I am dreaming, but you
to ensure he is match fit and ready to go. of Tunisia’s games. We will have have to dream. You have to
people watching them to make get the players to believe.
What is your assessment of your group? sure we get those details right. Samindra Kunti

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> AUSTRALIA
TACTICS SCHEDULE
PRE-WORLD CUP
Searching for midfield balance Sep 22
1-0 v New Zealand
(Brisbane)
Sep 25
n recent times, Graham Arnold has 2-0 v New Zealand
I fluctuated between a 4-4-2 and a

4-1-4-1 system. This is because he
has struggled to get the balance
right in his preferred 4-2-3-1, most
probably because of the lack of a holding
(Auckland)
midfielder of the quality of Mile Jedinak.

This deficiency was most glaringly Neighbours...Australia
exposed in the 2-0 home loss to Japan, faced New Zealand in
their warm-up games
when absenteeism forced Arnold to hand
a debut to Gianni Stensness, alongside GROUP GAMES
fellow greenhorn Connor Metcalfe. Both Nov 22
have promise, but they were run ragged v France
(Al Wakrah)
by the technically gifted Samurai Blue.
Nov 26
The 4-1-4-1 worked a treat against v Tunisia
Peru, with Mooy putting in one of his best (Al Wakrah)
shifts in years at the base of midfield Nov 30
– ably supported by Irvine and Hrustic, v Denmark
(Al Wakrah)
and the diligent wide play of Leckie and
Boyle – stifling Peru of meaningful
possession and attacking threat.
The most natural number six is James
Jeggo, but, like many others, he has had
opportunities and is yet to fully make the
jersey his own.
Behich Leckie
Other selection problems for Arnold
include whether to reintroduce Harry Midfield anchor
Souttar, the giant centre-back who was ...Aaron Mooy
a regular until sustaining a serious injury,
or stick with the impressive Kye Rowles, Rowles Hrustic
now featuring for Hearts in Scotland.
Ryan Mooy Maclaren
Sainsbury Irvine
Atkinson Boyle
Impressive...
Kye Rowles
THE VIEW FROM AUSTRALIA COACH

“Australia travel to their fifth consecutive Graham ARNOLD
Scrutinised...
World Cup in the same mood they have Graham Arnold Age 59 (03.08.63)
travelled to most of the others – more Appointed August 2018
in hope than expectation. The golden
generation of Viduka and Kewell are, It’s safe to say Arnold is not the most
sadly, a distant memory, with few of popular coach Australia have ever had.
the squad playing in Europe’s major In part, this is due to the Melbourne-
leagues these days.” Sydney divide, but he’s also had to live
Michael Lynch, The Age newspaper with comparisons with his predecessor
Ange Postecoglou, and a stuttering
“The underdog name is one that all qualification campaign that only came
Australian sporting teams thrive on, good right at the death. He made great
and the Socceroos revelled in it in their play of Aussie “DNA” and “fighting spirit”
win over Peru to qualify. The opening ahead of the play-off, and got a response
game versus France looms as crucial – but will that be enough against teams
– the result will have a great bearing of superior quality at the World Cup?
on whether or not the Aussies progress.” A group-stage exit will almost inevitably
Mark Bosnich, ex-Socceroo and pundit mean the end of his four-year tenure.

8 4 75 5 53 38
0 0 0 0 2 1
Mitch LANGERAK Andrew REDMAYNE Mat RYAN Nathaniel ATKINSON Aziz BEHICH Milos DEGENEK
Nagoya Grampus (Jap) Sydney FC FC Copenhagen (Den) Hearts (Sco) Dundee United (Sco) Columbus Crew (USA)
GOALKEEPERS
DEFENDERS
Recently returned after His penalty-shootout Captain and No.1, who is One of the very few First-choice left-back who Central defender or right-
a self-imposed exile due antics against Peru made back in regular club action Tasmanians to play in moved to Scotland in the back, born in Croatia but
to COVID. Struggled at him a national hero. Was after spells with Arsenal Europe, he made his off-season after almost a represented Serbia at U19
Dortmund, Stuttgart and behind Danny Vukovic and Real Sociedad. name as a right-back decade in Turkey. His only level. Played Champions
Levante, but holds the in the pecking order, but He lived in a caravan with Melbourne City, international goals came a League with Red Star
J.League record for clean his penalty-saving ability to avoid distractions scoring in their Grand decade ago – in the same Belgrade, and has had stints
sheets in a single season. could see him get the nod. early on in his career. Final win in 2021. game v Chinese Taipei. in Japan and Saudi Arabia.
11 4 3 61 10 27
1 0 0 4 6 2
Fran KARACIC Joel KING Kye ROWLES Trent SAINSBURY Harry SOUTTAR Bailey WRIGHT
Brescia (Ita) OB (Den) Hearts (Sco) Al Wakrah (Qat) Stoke City (Eng) Sunderland (Eng)
Right-back born in Zagreb, Left-back who got his Left-sided central Will be playing at his Giant centre-back born in Central defender, whose
he played for Croatia U21s chance at Sydney due to defender, who benefitted “home” stadium after Aberdeen to an Australian Australian career has been
before switching to the Michael Zullo’s injury. Was from the absence of the moving to Qatar – the mother. Ruptured his ACL stop-start – he debuted in
land of his father’s birth. A-League Young Player injured Harry Souttar eighth country he has against Saudi Arabia and is 2014 and went to the Brazil
Had never even visited of the Year in 2020-21 to emerge following played his club football in. in a race to be fit for the World Cup under Ange
Australia before making which earned him his a stellar season with Cool, classy defender who finals. Older brother John Postecoglou. Has played
his home debut in 2021. overseas move. Central Coast Mariners. reads the game well. plays for Scotland. his entire career in the UK.
10 20 49 11 5 53
1 3 7 1 0 7
Craig GOODWIN Ajdin HRUSTIC Jackson IRVINE Riley McGREE Connor METCALFE Aaron MOOY
Adelaide United Hellas Verona (Ita) St Pauli (Ger) Middlesbrough (Eng) St Pauli (Ger) Celtic (Sco)
MIDFIELDERS
Left-winger now in his Attacking or deep-lying Box-to-box midfielder Now established in England Midfielder whose forceful Creative midfielder who
third spell with Adelaide midfielder who takes who was a Celtic junior, after an abortive first displays at Melbourne City switched to Celtic after
United after stints in a mean free-kick. Won but found his feet with European spell with Club earned him a move to the pandemic limited his
the Middle East and the Europa League with Ross County and Burton Brugge. Scored a scorpion Germany. Powerful and playing time in China with
the Netherlands with Frankfurt – the first Aussie Albion. Plays guitar and is kick goal for Newcastle athletic, he is predominantly Shanghai Port. Nicknamed
Sparta Rotterdam. to win a European trophy politically aware – St Pauli Jets in 2018 that earned left-footed and can shoot the “Pasty Pirlo” during his
Expert free-kick taker. since Harry Kewell in 2005. is a perfect fit for him. him a Puskas nomination. from long range. Huddersfield Town days.
53 19 21 73 29 26
10 5 8 13 8 8
Tom ROGIC Martin BOYLE Mitch DUKE Mat LECKIE Awer MABIL Jamie MACLAREN
West Bromwich Albion (Eng) Hibernian (Sco) Fagiano Okayama (Jap) Melbourne City Cadiz (Spa) Melbourne City
FORWARDS
Won six SPL titles in nearly Striker or winger, Striker who made his Spent ten years in Flying winger who came Striker who has won four
a decade with Celtic before now back with Hibs name with Central Coast Germany before returning to Australia as a refugee. A-League Golden Boots.
moving to West Brom in after a short spell Mariners, but is now in home in 2021. This will be Has played in Denmark, Less successful overseas
September. Sublimely in Saudi Arabia with his second spell in Japan. his third World Cup after Portugal, Turkey and now with Hibs and Darmstadt.
talented No.10, but missed Al Faisaly. Qualifies for Also played for Saudi’s Al featuring at Brazil 2014 Spain. Runs “Barefoot to Was at Blackburn Rovers
out on the play-offs due to Australia as his father Taawoun, and is mainly and Russia 2018. Can Boots” to ensure better as a junior, and his father
unknown circumstances. was born in Sydney. used as an impact sub. play anywhere up front. welfare for refugees. played for Dunfermline.
17 5
6 0
ALSO IN CONTENTION
GOALKEEPERS Paul IZZO (Melbourne Victory), Lawrence THOMAS (Western

Sydney Wanderers), Danny VUKOVIC (Central Coast Mariners)
DEFENDERS Jason DAVIDSON (Eupen, Bel), Harrison DELBRIDGE (Incheon United, Kor),
Adam TAGGART Marco TILIO Thomas DENG (Albirex Niigata, Jap), Callum ELDER (Hull City, Eng), Rhyan GRANT (Sydney FC),
Cerezo Osaka (Jap) Melbourne City Ryan McGOWAN (St Johnstone, Sco), Ryan STRAIN (St Mirren, Sco)
Age 29 (02.06.93) Age 21 (23.08.01)
A-League Golden Boot Former Sydney FC junior MIDFIELDERS Keanu BACCUS (St Mirren, Sco), Brandon BORRELLO (Western Sydney Wanderers), Jake BRIMMER
winner in 2014, but injuries who plays as a winger (Melbourne Victory), Cameron DEVLIN (Hearts, Sco), Kenny DOUGALL (Blackpool, Eng), Ben FOLAMI (Melbourne
and unsuccessful overseas but can also roam deep Victory), Denis GENREAU (Toulouse, Fra), James JEGGO (Eupen, Bel), Gianni STENSNESS (Viking, Nor)
moves have stymied his as an attacking midfielder. FORWARDS Jason CUMMINGS (Central Coast Mariners), Nick D’AGOSTINO (Melbourne Victory),
career. Now finding form Scored against Argentina Bruno FORNAROLI (Perth Glory), Chris IKONOMIDIS (Melbourne Victory), Alou KUOL (Stuttgart, Ger),
in Japan after two seasons at the Tokyo Olympics with Garang KUOL (Central Coast Mariners), Nikita RUKAVYTSYA (Maccabi Haifa, Isr)
with Suwon Bluewings. just his second touch.

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> BELGIUM
Red Devils’ last chance

Belgium’s long-vaunted “golden generation”
have one final shot at silverware in Qatar
an Roberto Martinez
C mastermind one last

great hurrah in Qatar
before Belgium’s golden
generation, which first prompted major
excitement at the 2014 World Cup with
Next generation
...Charles De
Ketelaere
a run to the last eight, fades from view?

Following on from their perfect
preliminary campaign for the last
European Championship with ten
wins out of ten and 40 goals, Belgium
again qualified with aplomb for a major
finals, garnering 20 points with six
wins and two draws, scoring 25 goals.
It was satisfactory enough en route
to Qatar, but qualifiers with the Czech
Republic and Wales as main opponents
do not represent a proper benchmark
for a side that includes stellar names was perhaps a wake-up call. Martinez
such as Thibaut Courtois, Eden Hazard grudgingly admitted that it was time
and Kevin De Bruyne. Big tournaments to question some of the veterans
do and that’s precisely where Belgium with a new talented generation
have always fallen short. waiting in the wings.
Last summer’s disappointing Milan new boy Charles De Ketelaere
elimination at the hands of Italy in is seen as Belgium’s next big star, but
the quarter-finals of Euro 2020 was a with so little experience on the biggest
tough reality check. The positional play,
stage, his cohort can’t be expected to
high-tempo passing, quick transitions simply step in if and when called upon.
and play in between the lines from This lack of generational transition is a
Roberto Mancini’s team was simply too problem of Martinez’s own making. The
good. De Bruyne was not fit. With an golden generation is past its best and
unstable, ageing back line and Hazard’smemories of that barnstorming victory
ever-lasting injury concerns at Real over Brazil in Kazan in 2018 have
Madrid, match fitness is problematic. become distant. In Qatar, it looks
Belgium simply need all their best unlikely the Red Devils will progress
to the last four.
Group F is tricky
With an unstable, ageing back line and a second-
and Eden Hazard’s ever-lasting round clash
injury concerns at Real Madrid, against Spain or
Germany would
match fitness is problematic be daunting.
Samindra Kunti
players to perform at their peak.
It’s a prerequisite to compete.
In the 2021 UEFA Nations ROBERTO MARTINEZ How concerned are you by the fitness and
form of Eden Hazard and Romelu Lukaku?
League finals, the Belgians choked Players always get ups and downs. What
again against more storied opponents What did you learn from Euro 2020 concerns you more is when there is a bigger
– world champions France. The press and the UEFA Nations League finals? issue. Eden has found a solution since
The biggest takeaway was that there is a February, and I would say that he is now
and public mood turned sour after the
different approach when teams are playing pain-free. The role he has at Real Madrid
defeat that confirmed Belgium don’t against Belgium and we need to manage and the role he has in the national team are
have what it takes to win silverware: those situations better. When we were 2-0 completely different. With Romelu, it is similar.
the quality and shrewdness to defeat up at half-time against France, there is a In the summer he had the move that he
the big teams when it matters. different way of playing that game and that wanted. So, I am not concerned when you talk
is an aspect we need to learn from. But in about players who are well above 100 caps.
Criticism at the feet of Martinez
the Euros, there are many things that we
grew: his in-game management was did well: we won four games and in the The next generation is becoming more
not sufficient and he was too loyal to Italy game we showed the right attitude, prominent. How do you bring it through?
established players. Last June’s 4-1 never gave up and gave everything. What is important for us, is that what the
thrashing against the Netherlands

Golden generation
...Kevin De Bruyne
and Eden Hazard
current generation has achieved – a consistent game is going to be a celebration – we saw Cup ever due to the fact that the players
level of performances on the world stage – that with Panama [in 2018]. And there is a big are going to be in the perfect condition
is followed through for the next 20 years. community of Moroccan people in Belgium physically and mentally. I am not looking
For that you need generations. When you – there are five or six players who were born for easy games because they do not exist.
look at some of the young players, they look in Belgium, and staff members that have 2018 semi-finalists
ready. It is a competitive environment and we been with both federations – so those links ...Belgium finished Can Belgium reach the heights of 2018?
like young players to show what they can do; will make it a derby. The matches will be a third in Russia We need to be at our very best. We need
the same way the experienced players keep lot closer than the rankings suggest. to use the five subs and the
performing. Then football makes the decision. 26-man squad well. There are
The knockouts looks tough: many unknowns because they
What is your assessment of Group F? Spain or Germany in the last 16 have never happened before:
It is very diverse. There is a European nation and Brazil in the last eight… playing in the winter, playing in
that we all know very well, Croatia, with this That’s why there are no favourites the same city. We are looking
wonderful generation that finished second at major tournaments. There are forward to it and hope we
in Russia. Canada have been very impressive, no easy games. I believe this is can make our fans proud.
finishing top in their confederation. Their first going to be the strongest World Samindra Kunti

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> BELGIUM
TACTICS SCHEDULE
PRE-WORLD CUP
Tried and trusted 3-4-3 Sep 22
2-1 v Wales
(Brussels)
Sep 25
oberto Martinez switched his 0-1 v Netherlands
R formation from a 4-3-3 to a

3-4-3 in the 2018 World Cup
qualifying campaign, forming
a standout Belgian team with a group of
players that understood how to maximise
(Amsterdam)
Nov 15
v Iraq
(Basra)
Nov 18
v Egypt
(Kuwait City)
the strengths of the system as well as
their own qualities. GROUP GAMES
Gone were the olden days of a blue- Nov 22
collar side that adopted a classic 4-4-2 v Canada
and relied on grit to grind out a result. (Al Rayyan)
Instead, a fluid XI were great entertainers Nov 26
v Morocco
in Russia. With 16 goals, the Red Devils (Doha)
were the highest-scoring team. Nov 30
At Euro 2020, Belgium again played v Croatia
3-4-3 with variations, often a 3-4-2-1 (Al Rayyan)
with Axel Witsel as a No.6, wing-backs
Thomas Meunier and Thorgan Hazard
overlapping, Kevin De Bruyne roaming
freely and two middle-to-front attackers
behind reference striker Romelu Lukaku.
It’s a tried and tested formation
that has brought success but ultimately
no silverware, and Martinez has never
developed a serious back-up plan. Since
Castagne
the retirement of Vincent Kompany, the
back three have been a liability, even if Creative outlets... Vertonghen E. Hazard
Meunier can drop back. Eden Hazard’s Youri Tielemans and
perennial fitness problems remain a Kevin De Bruyne
constant worry and Lukaku doesn’t Witsel
always deliver against the elite teams.
Courtois Boyata Lukaku
Tielemans
Alderweireld De Bruyne
Meunier
Fitness worries
...Eden Hazard
THE VIEW FROM BELGIUM COACH

“You can’t underestimate Group F. Roberto MARTINEZ (Spa)
Criticised...
Canada could be a revelation, Morocco Roberto Age 49 (13.07.73)
will be united with a new coach installed Martinez Appointed August 2016
and Croatia remain Croatia despite an
ageing generation. Navigate those teams Martinez led Belgium to third place at
and heavyweights await. Belgium will the 2018 World Cup, but underwhelming
have to be at their best with a spine results at both Euro 2020 and the 2021
of Courtois, De Bruyne and Lukaku.” UEFA Nations League finals dimmed the
Tom Boudeweel, VRT national team’s aura. A previously pliant
press is now critical of the national team
“Alderweireld, Boyata and Vertonghen coach, who serves as technical director
have returned home. Vermaelen has too. The fans demand success. Martinez’s
retired. Eden Hazard is the world’s most communication is not always transparent,
expensive benchwarmer. Kevin De Bruyne his game-management not good enough
and Thibaut Courtois are still around, and he is too faithful to the generation
but that’s not enough. Reaching the that delivered bronze in Russia. Above
last eight would be a great result.” all, he hasn’t delivered a trophy. Qatar
Francois Colin, dewitteduivel.com represents a chance to go out on a high.

4 96 35 123 31 25
0 0 0 5 0 2
Koen CASTEELS Thibaut COURTOIS Simon MIGNOLET Toby ALDERWEIRELD Dedryck BOYATA Timothy CASTAGNE
Wolfsburg (Ger) Real Madrid (Spa) Club Brugge Antwerp Club Brugge Leicester City (Eng)
GOALKEEPERS
DEFENDERS
In his 11th consecutive Arguably the world’s Eternal understudy to After 174 Premier Debuted in 2010. Deputised Consistent wing-back at
season in the Bundesliga. best goalkeeper and the Courtois. Played just 90 League matches with for Vincent Kompany in the Atalanta and in England
Wolfsburg’s vice-captain, undisputed No.1 for club minutes in the qualifiers Tottenham via Qatar’s Al 2018 World Cup group stage who can play on either
intelligent and highly and country. Commanding but featured a little more Duhail, he’s back in his and featured twice at Euro side. A quiet presence but
rated but features only presence and makes in the Nations League. hometown. A veteran 2020. Versatile but error- versatile and energetic.
in fringe matches superlative saves. Qatar Instrumental at his club. with a century of caps. prone. In a battle for the Simple in his execution.
for Belgium. will be his third World Cup. Degree in political science. Excellent long passer. third centre-back spot. A No.6 at youth level.
2 35 58 3 141 59
0 1 8 0 9 8
Zeno DEBAST Jason DENAYER Thomas MEUNIER Arthur THEATE Jan VERTONGHEN Yannick CARRASCO
Anderlecht Shabab Al Ahli (UAE) Borussia Dortmund (Ger) Rennes (Fra) Anderlecht Atletico Madrid (Spa)
MIDFIELDERS
Club debut at 17. Never Once considered the heir Reliable and defensively Left-footed and a constant Made his Belgium bow in Rejuvenated at his club
played for Belgium’s U21s. to Kompany, but can be astute right-back with lung presence at his club. Made 2007 against Portugal and and brilliant on his day,
A new Martinez favourite, but caught out positionally. power. Could give way to a his debut in the World the nation’s most-capped but his output is too
will need to step it up against Struggled after difficulties more offensive player. Was Cup qualifiers against player. Last-minute summer limited for a player so
top teams. Could start ahead last season at Lyon, but linked with Barcelona in Wales in November 2021. move away from Benfica. talented. The offensive
of Boyata and Denayer but it Martinez tends to stay the summer. Art buff Likely to only play in Jan Ageing and lacks pace but alternative at wing-back
would represent a gamble. loyal to his older players. and former postman. Vertonghen’s absence. offers vast experience. who can play either side.
93 29 45 2 15 54
25 1 9 0 2 5
Kevin DE BRUYNE Leander DENDONCKER Thorgan HAZARD Amadou ONANA Dennis PRAET Youri TIELEMANS
Manchester City (Eng) Aston Villa (Eng) Borussia Dortmund (Ger) Everton (Eng) Leicester City (Eng) Leicester City (Eng)
Superlative midfield Anderlecht youth product Struggling with injury, but Overlooked by Belgian Once a prodigy. Now At a crossroads: too good
metronome. Skillset and and a utility man capable with proven performances clubs, now a €40-million mid-career with mixed for Leicester, but not quite
vision defy reality and he of playing in midfield or in the past. Great attacking Goodison Park attraction. fortunes. Struggling to world class and also out of
opens up defences with as the right-sided centre- threat as either the left Tall and powerful, with a establish himself at both form this season. Struggling
his incisive passing and back. Good stamina and wing-back or left-sided good header. Impressed club and international level. to lead the next Belgian
accurate crosses. Assertive physicality. More playing forward. One of three against the Netherlands in Versatile midfielder who can generation. Can play
in the dressing room. time with Belgium of late. Hazard brothers. September on his first start. also cover for Dries Mertens. as a No.6 or No.8.
22 126 47 10 122 102
5 12 26 1 33 68
Hans VANAKEN Axel WITSEL Michy BATSHUAYI Charles DE KETELAERE Eden HAZARD Romelu LUKAKU
Club Brugge Atletico Madrid (Spa) Fenerbahce (Tur) Milan (Ita) Real Madrid (Spa) Internazionale (Ita)
FORWARDS
Played just a single Debuted in 2008. Eternal journeyman at The new poster boy of Chelsea great, Madrid flop. Back at Inter after more
minute at Euro 2020 but A Roberto Martinez club level, eternal super Belgian football, finding Unstoppable at his best, but Premier League agony.
impressed in WC qualifying favourite and evergreen sub with the national his feet in Italy following those days seem to be past All-time top scorer and
with goals and assists. A in Belgium’s midfield. team. Has a great goal a record outgoing transfer. him. Limping from injury to indispensable for Belgium,
good passer with vision. No.6 with a languid record at international Not a main protagonist for injury, even if fit should he be so his injury concerns are
No longer considered a playing style, but age level and could start if Belgium yet, but it should a starter? Ready to prove the a major worry. Five goals
lightweight for Belgium. could be a factor. Romelu Lukaku is unfit. only be a matter of time. doubters wrong in Qatar. in the WC qualifiers.
106 21
21 5
ALSO IN CONTENTION
GOALKEEPERS Matz SELS (Strasbourg, Fra)
DEFENDERS Wout FAES (Leicester City, Eng), Thomas FOKET (Reims, Fra),
Dries MERTENS Leandro TROSSARD Brandon MECHELE (Club Brugge), Zinho VANHEUSDEN (AZ, Ned)
Galatasaray (Tur) Brighton (Eng)
Age 35 (06.05.87) Age 27 (04.12.94) MIDFIELDERS Romeo LAVIA (Southampton, Eng), Albert Sambi LOKONGA (Arsenal, Eng), Orel MANGALA
In the twilight of his career Second generation of (Nottingham Forest, Eng), Alexis SAELEMAEKERS (Milan, Ita) – injured, Yari VERSCHAEREN (Anderlecht)
but the technical dribbler Belgians in the Premier
is a big fans’ favourite. League. Industrious and FORWARDS Christian BENTEKE (D.C. United, USA), Jeremy DOKU (Rennes, Fra), Adnan JANUZAJ
Napoli’s all-time record dynamic. Hardly ever in (Sevilla, Spa), Dodi LUKEBAKIO (Hertha Berlin, Ger), Lois OPENDA (Lens, Fra), Divock ORIGI (Milan, Ita)
goalscorer, but moved the starting XI but maybe
to Turkey in August to should be considering his
get more playing time. explosive Brighton form.

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> BRAZIL
Eyeing number six

A star-studded squad has Brazil’s best
chance of World Cup glory since 2002
n the middle of last year, when
I Brazil lost a Copa America on

home soil for the first time in
their history, the whole Qatar
endeavour seemed ill fated, destined
to end, like all Brazil’s World Cup
Attacking depth...
Vinicius, Paqueta
and Neymar
campaigns since the 2002 triumph,

as soon as they came up against
a major western European side
in the knockout stages.
Radically and quickly, the mood
has changed. An exciting new array
of attacking options has emerged. And
the rise of the likes of Vinicius Junior,
Raphinha, Antony, Richarlison, Gabriel
Martinelli, et al. is undeniably beneficial
for Neymar, the team’s undoubted main
star, whose international legacy hangs
on what happens in November and European heavyweights? A combination
December. Curiously, Neymar in Qatar of the COVID-19 pandemic and the UEFA
will be almost exactly the same age Nations League has thwarted Brazil’s
as Pele when he stopped playing for attempts to fix up meaningful friendlies.
Brazil. Pele, of course, left the scene Since losing to Belgium in the 2018
having done it all. Neymar has it all quarter-finals in Kazan, Brazil’s only
to do, making it entirely positive that meeting with European opposition
some of the attacking burden can be was a 3-1 win away to the Czech
shared with the new breakout stars. Republic in March 2019.
And the timing of the tournament may It is worth recalling that they were
also work in his favour; Neymar has not far off in 2018. Brazil surely earned
tended to be at his best, and most the right to take that thrilling quarter-
injury free, in the early months of final against the Belgians into extra-
the European season. time. They look much stronger now
As ever in football, the star shines – and if they peaked too soon on the
brightest when the collective balance road to Russia, their timing looks better
in the build-up
to Qatar. A giant
Neymar in Qatar will be almost nation is entitled
exactly the same age as Pele when to believe that the
he stopped playing for Brazil. Pele, 20-year wait for
of course, left the scene having done title number six
could be coming
it all. Neymar has it all to do to an end.
Tim Vickery
of the team is correct. This is the
responsibility of Tite, the outstanding
Brazilian coach of his generation, and TITE We can be more focused now because we
know about all the pressures. And we saw
almost certainly a better coach for that the other teams don’t tremble against
the experience of Russia 2018. How is the build-up to this World our yellow shirt – or against anyone else.
His team is extremely well balanced Cup different from the last one? All of them have extraordinary pride in
The first cycle was difficult [Tite took over representing their country and go out to
and, with more top-class goalkeepers
with a third of the Russia 2018 qualifiers do their best irrespective of the opposition.
and centre-backs than they can care to played] because it wasn’t a complete work
use, defensively rock solid. In 17 World with a beginning, a middle and an end. It Since then you have won a Copa America,
Cup qualifiers they let in just five goals, didn’t give me the experience of all of the but lost another one. Is that a problem?
and rarely looked like conceding. It is experiments, mistakes and variations that I Our attacking construction has improved
have this time. Now we have a complete cycle. greatly since last year’s Copa America.
true, though, that they have seldom
We have many more attacking variations
come under severe pressure. What about the tournament itself. What – a positional game, but with freedom.
And it is hard to predict one of the did the experience of Russia give you?
most interesting issues of the competition A series of factors, especially emotional. How much do you take into account the
– how will they match up against the

Upbeat mood...
Brazil are among the
World Cup favourites
opposition when you set up your team? midfielders, and I consider Neymar What spirit are you taking to Qatar?
I don’t like to transform my team in relation a midfielder, because he is both bow I want to be at peace with myself. I don’t
to the opposition. No, it’s better to establish and arrow. We attack in 2-3-5 or other want to throw away my principles and win
your routine, which creates habit, which variations, constructing from the back, with at any cost. I’m not saying this as an excuse
leaves you more open to creativity. It’s a goalkeepers who can play with their feet. if we lose – I have won everything in my
process, by which you foster creativity in the Over the last few months the team has career, the only thing missing is the World
final third. Obviously, the characteristics of adjusted itself to playing with two Maestro...Neymar Cup. So we want to win by being the best,
the opposition change, and we prepare our aggressive, fast wingers, which can fairly, with pride at being
players for this, but within our idea of play. make us more direct, with fewer technically more developed,
passes, but the idea remains the faster, with more quality, more
And how do you define the idea? same. I believe in defensive solidity, creativity, more goals. Not with
We don’t sit back to go on the counter, it’s creativity and goals. We want the the influence of dirty play,
not our characteristic. We want to mark the ball – in competitive games we’ve provoking the opposition,
opponent high, to stop them playing out, to had 60 per cent, and we also have looking for little advantages.
stay compact behind the line of the ball. We a goal difference in the games That’s the path I choose.
mark in 4-4-2, and I see us playing with four we’ve played of plus 90. Tim Vickery

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> BRAZIL
TACTICS SCHEDULE
PRE-WORLD CUP
The return of wingers Sep 23
3-0 v Ghana
(Le Havre)
Sep 27
razil offer variations on a 5-1 v Tunisia
B theme, with the basic idea

being that of a team that
presses the opposition in
its half and seeks to have the ball. The
return of wingers means that the days
(Paris)
of Cafu and Roberto Carlos running up

and down the flanks have gone – the Keen to impress
full-backs are now expected to hold ...Raphinha
position, serve as auxiliary midfielders GROUP GAMES
and appear in the attacking line as an Nov 24
element of surprise, with Alex Sandro v Serbia
the more adventurous. The big defensive (Lusail)
dilemma is of personnel rather than of Nov 28
v Switzerland
conception – the speed of Eder Militao (Doha)
or the experience of Thiago Silva? Dec 2
Casemiro, a key leader, anchors the v Cameroon
midfield, while alongside him Fred is given (Lusail)
more freedom than at his club. And one
of the best features of the side over the
last 18 months has been the link-up play
between Neymar and Lucas Paqueta.
Up front there are big decisions to take.
Brazil were playing with two wingers, but
Richarlison appears to have forced his way
Alex Sandro
in at centre-forward, which means – and
this is a big call – that Vinicius Junior is Attackers...Neymar
Lucas Paqueta
on the bench. Two wingers plus a central and Vinicius Junior
striker can be accommodated if Brazil
go with their ultra-attacking variation, Thiago Silva Neymar
where Lucas Paqueta drops deeper in
midfield to take the place of Fred. Alisson Casemiro Richarlison
Marquinhos
Fred
Raphinha
Danilo
Key leader
...Casemiro
THE VIEW FROM BRAZIL COACH

“Brazil have a solid and experienced TITE
Long-serving
defence, a midfield balanced between coach...Tite Age 61 (25.05.61)
talent and strength, and an attack Appointed June 2016
featuring top players with technical
quality and intelligence. This is, of Tite was an elegant midfielder forced
course, no guarantee of success. into early retirement by a knee injury.
Expectations could be a problem.” Intelligent and charismatic, he is an
Juninho Pernambucano, admirer of Carlo Ancelotti. With the
former World Cup midfielder exception of the World Cup he has won
everything in his path, making his name
“After a complete cycle in charge, Tite when Gremio won the 2001 domestic
has deep knowledge of his players and cup, before claiming two league titles, a
how they can operate in a number of Libertadores and the 2012 Club World
systems. The rise of new attackers gives Cup with Corinthians, plus the 2019
grounds for enthusiasm, and Neymar Copa America. Whatever the outcome
appears well focused on a tournament he will step down after Qatar and likely
that will do much to define his career.” take a break. But then, despite his initial
Carlos Mansur, commentator, SporTV reluctance, European football beckons.

57 18 8 37 8 1
0 0 0 2 0 0
ALISSON EDERSON WEVERTON ALEX SANDRO ALEX TELLES BREMER

Liverpool (Eng) Manchester City (Eng) Palmeiras Juventus (Ita) Sevilla (Spa) Juventus (Ita)
GOALKEEPERS
DEFENDERS
Thrown into the deep Keeper whose brave Olympic gold medallist Tall left-back who has On loan from Manchester Hulking figure whose fine
end as national team shot-stopping comes in 2016 on home soil. Has become an important United in Spain, Telles has Serie A form has made him
custodian seven years with the added bonus of a calm presence and swift figure in the team, taken advantage of the a late candidate for the
ago, but has since grown a magnificent left foot, reflexes who, if called on, especially in the timing injury to Guilherme Arana fourth centre-back spot
into one of the world’s capable of both power has the full confidence of his forward bursts to become front runner ahead of Gabriel. Named
best goalkeepers. and accuracy. Started the of the coaching staff. Best either wide or into for the reserve left-back after former Germany left-
Athletic but unflashy. 2021 Copa America final. keeper in Brazil’s Serie A. the penalty area. slot ahead of Renan Lodi. back Andreas Brehme.
124 46 23 71 109 8
8 1 1 5 7 1
DANI ALVES DANILO EDER MILITAO MARQUINHOS THIAGO SILVA BRUNO GUIMARAES
UNAM Pumas (Mex) Juventus (Ita) Real Madrid (Spa) Paris Saint-Germain (Fra) Chelsea (Eng) Newcastle United (Eng)
MIDFIELDERS
Much decorated Experienced right-back Strapping defender Harshly and surely A fourth World Cup for Strong box-to-box
right-back desperate – formerly of Manchester who can make mistakes, wrongly dropped on the a master defender full of midfielder and Olympic
for one last crack at the City, Real Madrid and but stands out for his eve of the last World Cup, experience, but there are gold medallist last year,
title that has got away. Porto – whose past as a extraordinary recovery has become one of the doubts – especially as he who did extremely well
Needs some protection, midfielder gives him the speed. Battling with Thiago world’s best centre-backs. now usually operates for when promoted to the
but brings clarity, energy versatility that Brazil are Silva at centre-back but Quick and classy, he is a his club in the middle senior squad towards the
and intelligence. looking for in his position. can also play right-back. key player in the team. of a back three. end of the qualifiers.
65 68 28 28 35 121
5 21 0 0 7 75
CASEMIRO Philippe COUTINHO FABINHO FRED LUCAS PAQUETA NEYMAR

Manchester United (Eng) Aston Villa (Eng) Liverpool (Eng) Manchester United (Eng) West Ham United (Eng) Paris Saint-Germain (Fra)
The team’s competitive Jinking playmaker with Once a right-back, but Stocky, energetic little Tall, talented left-footed Star man who is now
leader. Holding midfielder a wonderful whippy shot successfully converted left-footed midfielder, figure who is mainly an seen as a midfielder by
with excellent spatial who was rushed back into into a holding midfielder who is much maligned attacking midfielder but the coach, though he is on
awareness and unflashy contention as soon as his with excellent distribution. at club level but has is so versatile that he can track to overtake Pele as
passing skills. Now Barcelona nightmare was His chances have been shown splendid form for fill three positions in the Brazil’s all-time top scorer.
embarking on a new over. Handed a warning severely restricted by the Brazil where he is set free same match. Combines Says this will probably
adventure at club level. when left out in September. presence of Casemiro. to use his lung power. well with Neymar. be his last World Cup.
11 55 56 2 11 38
2 17 19 1 5 17
ANTONY Roberto FIRMINO GABRIEL JESUS PEDRO RAPHINHA RICHARLISON

Manchester United (Eng) Liverpool (Eng) Arsenal (Eng) Flamengo Barcelona (Spa) Tottenham Hotspur (Eng)
FORWARDS
Left-footed winger with Deep-lying striker whose Carried the can for his Centre-forward with little Left-footed right-winger Strong, direct, front-to-
bags of tricks, who left star may have been on the failure at centre-forward in pace but offers plenty in who was little known at goal striker with immense
Ajax for £85m in the wain, but could win a place Russia, but now rejuvenated the box with finishing, home when he made his self confidence. Olympic
summer. Another of the in the squad ahead of at Arsenal and willing to technique and awareness. debut last year, but took gold medallist who goes to
Olympic gold medallists Matheus Cunha because play out wide or through His sparkling club form instantly to international Qatar as the leading option
who has done well on his he is probably the best the middle. Surprisingly means he could be a good football. Left Leeds United to start if Tite opts for
promotion to the seniors. replacement for Neymar. left out in September. option off the bench. for Barca in the summer. a centre-forward.
7 16
1 1
ALSO IN CONTENTION
GOALKEEPERS EVERSON (Atletico Mineiro), SANTOS (Flamengo)
DEFENDERS EMERSON ROYAL (Tottenham Hotspur, Eng), FELIPE (Atletico Madrid, Spa), GABRIEL Magalhaes
RODRYGO VINICIUS JUNIOR (Arsenal, Eng), GUILHERME ARANA (Atletico Mineiro) – injured, Roger IBANEZ (Roma, Ita), LEO ORTIZ
Real Madrid (Spa) Real Madrid (Spa) (Red Bull Bragantino), RENAN LODI (Nottingham Forest, Eng), Lucas VERISSIMO (Benfica, Por)
Age 21 (09.01.01) Age 22 (12.07.00)
Support striker of rare Right-footed left-winger MIDFIELDERS ARTHUR (Liverpool, Eng) – injured, DANILO (Palmeiras), DOUGLAS LUIZ
talent and intelligence. with an express change (Aston Villa, Eng), EVERTON RIBEIRO (Flamengo), GERSON (Marseille, Fra)
Has long been seen with of pace, who has recently
high hopes, and Brazil emerged as a global star FORWARDS GABRIEL BARBOSA (Flamengo), Gabriel MARTINELLI (Arsenal, Eng),
are starting to find ways due to the precision of MATHEUS CUNHA (Atletico Madrid, Spa)
to insert him in the side. his end product having
Could be their wild card. improved dramatically.

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> CAMEROON
Turning to the diaspora

A weak squad has been boosted by the
addition of several French-born players
he Indomitable Lions
T carry the distinction of

being Africa’s most frequent
visitors to the World Cup
and in Qatar are making their eighth
tournament appearance, but this
might be their weakest side yet.
That is quite some indictment, as
there have been some relatively poor
Cameroonian teams previously, like in
the United States in 1994 and South
Africa in 2010. Hopes for a repeat of
some of the heroics of Italia ’90 are
stretching the imagination somewhat.
Qualification for Cameroon was New recruit
...Brentford’s
a fortuitous affair as they snatched Bryan Mbeumo
a last-gasp extra-time win in Algeria
in the second leg of their play-off tie
in March to book their berth on the meeting five-time world champions
away goals rule. Brazil in their last group game.
Their win came some six weeks They have lost their previous seven
after the Africa Cup of Nations finals, matches at the finals, last winning a
which they hosted but failed to win, World Cup game 20 years ago in the
never providing anything near a tournament in Japan and South Korea
performance of conviction. when they edged Saudi Arabia by
A change of coach always looked a lone Eto’o goal in Saitama. In the
inevitable thereafter, not only because 2010 and 2014 finals they lost all
they did not win the tournament but of their group matches.
also because of a change of leadership Like all the other African sides,
at the head of the federation. Cameroon will be looking for late
The Portuguese journeyman Toni reinforcements via the diaspora. Eto’o
Conceicao had been appointed by the toured several clubs in Europe speaking
previous regime but, once Samuel Eto’o to prospective candidates and managed
won the elections towards the end of to persuade a number of players to
last year, change was inevitable. declare for the Lions, including Brentford
attacker Bryan
Mbeumo, a
Cameroon will be looking for late former France
reinforcements via the diaspora. U21 international.
Eto’o toured several clubs in Europe The new faces will
need to impress
speaking to prospective candidates in a weak squad.
Mark Gleeson
Eto’o chose former team-mate
Rigobert Song to take over the side,
emphasising his long-held view as a RIGOBERT SONG Korea], what’s the point of bringing those
you already know? We try others to try to
player that Cameroon relied too often find a balance, a chance to try to complete
on scratchy foreign appointments when Why did you leave out some of your better the squad and see others in action. We are
there was home talent available to lead players from your last set of preparatory going to need a workforce of 26 players.
the team. The jury, however, is out on matches in September when you needed
to work on your World Cup team? And can you explain the return, after such
Song; not only surrounding his coaching They are some of the most overused players. a long absence, of Georges Mandjeck and
expertise and experience at the top [Andre Frank] Zambo [Anguissa] plays every Nicolas Nkoulou to the national team?
level but also whether he will really three days, [Eric Maxim] Choupo-Moting We need experience. They are Cameroonians
call the shots, or Eto’o will make had just returned from injury. They are the and they also have the right to a chance to
leaders of the team. Do I still need to see play. It is good to have elders around, they
many of the key decisions himself.
them? I already know what they can bring to will help our new generation of players
Drawn in Group G, Cameroon the team. If they are not 100 per cent now, grow. They are passionate and patriotic.
need positive results in their opening we even want them to be 200 per cent in
two games against European pair November. Besides, it’s a long trip [to South There does not seem to be much depth in
Switzerland and Serbia before

Record breakers...
Cameroon are the
only African team
to reach eight
World Cups
the goalkeeping department and you might Lions, the first African side to get nation will be able to match and even
be in trouble if Andre Onana is injured. to the World Cup quarter-finals? surpass our 1990 side. I just hope
What are you doing about that situation? Emulating the 1990 generation, while Cameroon will be the first to do it.
Idriss Carlos Kameni and Fabrice Ondoa are not impossible, will take a lot of work and
among the players who are still in contention depend on many other factors: very good Experienced...Song And can your 2022 side do so?
but they haven’t played in a long time. We preparation, players who’ve reached a very played for Cameroon Today’s Indomitable Lions are a good
have our eye on them. I have no doubt about high level, experience and also luck. at four World Cups side that can still improve. It’s a squad
their qualities and perhaps we will call on The same applies to every African that’s in transition. They have
them. But at some point, we have to make nation. Since our 1990 generation, players who are getting plenty
a decision and I don’t want to disturb the only two others African countries of game time with their clubs,
squad too much, we rely a lot on harmony have reached the quarter-finals of with some of them competing
in the group. Andre Onana is number one the World Cup. The continent is in European cup competitions.
but the door is always open for everyone. full of talented players to reach That’s a good thing and
this milestone, but talent alone will allow us to have a
What are the chances of repeating is not enough. That said, I firmly competitive group.
the feat of the 1990 Indomitable believe that very soon an African Mark Gleeson

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> CAMEROON
TACTICS SCHEDULE
PRE-WORLD CUP
Defensive frailty a concern Sep 23
0-2 v Uzbekistan
(Goyang)
Sep 27
ast Cameroon sides have 0-1 v South Korea
P combined a mix of technical

finesse with a physical brutality
that underlined not only their
combativeness but also the fact that many
players are brought up on non-existent
(Seoul)
Nov 9 v Jamaica
(Yaounde)
pitches and so rely as much on their

upper-body strength as they do their
footwork. This time, there is a greater
Disappointment...
reliance on more conventional strengths, Cameroon lost
notably pace and wing play. to Uzbekistan
The side will line up in a 4-4-2 but
could also go to three centre-backs and GROUP GAMES
two wing-backs if looking to restrict their Nov 24
v Switzerland
opponents down the flanks. Vincent (Al Wakrah)
Aboubakar is the forward pivot, allowing Nov 28
Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting a freer role v Serbia
alongside him while restricting Karl Toko (Al Wakrah)
Ekambi to the left. But it is on the right Dec 2
v Brazil
where Moumi Ngamaleu offers Cameroon (Lusail)
their best attacking option, with new
recruit Bryan Mbeumo offering them a
wild card option in attack. The defence is
dominated by Michael Ngadeu but while
he is an imposing presence it is a back four
Nouhou Toko Ekambi
that has looked brittle over the last year
and will be a concern, especially against Forward pivot...
tougher tests at the World Cup finals. Vincent Aboubakar
Cameroon are also a little thin in midfield,
which in the past was often the recipe Castelletto Hongla Choupo-Moting
that allowed them success in Africa.
A. Onana
Ngadeu Zambo Anguissa Aboubakar
Fai Ngamaleu
Wild card...
Mbeumo on his
Cameroon debut
THE VIEW FROM CAMEROON COACH

“I think Cameroon’s chances depend on Rigobert SONG
Inexperienced...
their opening game against Switzerland Rigobert Song Age 46 (01.07.76)
and how they do in that match. It is Appointed February 2022
definitely one they can win with the
players on both sides evenly matched. Song is among Africa’s most decorated
The second group game against Serbia footballers, competing at four World
will be harder, so to win the opener Cups and a record eight AFCON finals,
is essential for Cameroon.” winning two, as he amassed 137 caps
Richard Naha, chief editor Afrikafoot.fr for Cameroon. His playing career took
in time in the Premier League (with
“As the lowest-ranked team in the group, Liverpool and West Ham United) and in
Cameroon are the underdogs. So, on Ligue 1, Serie A and the Bundesliga. But
paper, we must consider it is going to be his coaching career has been restricted
difficult for them to get to the second to the Cameroon Under-23 team, with
round. But Cameroonians believe the whom he failed to qualify for the last
tougher the task, the higher the ability Olympics in Tokyo. After being named
of the team to rise to the occasion.” new coach in February, he took charge
Junior Binyam, media consultant of Cameroon’s decisive play-off qualifiers.

5 0 32 13 1 51
0 0 0 0 0 0
Devis EPASSY Simon NGAPANDOUETNBU Andre ONANA Jean-Charles CASTELLETTO Enzo EBOSSE Collins FAI
Abha (KSA) Marseille (Fra) Internazionale (Ita) Nantes (Fra) Udinese (Ita) Al Tai (KSA)
GOALKEEPERS
DEFENDERS
French-born product of French Under-19 Bounced back Centre-back whose French-born defender Diminutive full-back who
Rennes but never got to international who has impressively from a father is Italian and who will be challenging spent six-and-a-half
play in Ligue 1, moving switched allegiance but nine-month drugs ban to mother is Cameroonian. for the left-back spot after seasons with Standard
to Spain, Greece and still to debut at senior win a move to Serie A Helped his club win the being part of the squad at Liege in Belgium before
now Saudi Arabia. A level, although this is his after seeing out his French Cup last season the Cup of Nations finals moving to Saudi Arabia.
member of the 2021 third season in the contract with Ajax. and is favourite to partner that Cameroon hosted at First-choice right-back but
AFCON squad. Marseille squad. Undisputed No.1. Ngadeu at centre-back. the beginning of the year. comfortable on the left too.
0 11 53 75 17 18
0 0 4 2 0 0
Oumar GONZALEZ Olivier MBAIZO Michael NGADEU Nicolas NKOULOU NOUHOU Tolo Martin HONGLA
Ajaccio (Fra) Philadelphia Union (USA) Gent (Bel) Aris (Gre) Seattle Sounders (USA) Hella Verona (Ita)
MIDFIELDERS
Uncapped centre-back The right-back has been Tall, influential figure in Recalled in September Winner of the Midfield hard man
called up in September’s a real catalyst for his side defence, who is one of the after a lengthy absence CONCACAF Champions whose club career
international window, but to dominate the Eastern survivors from the squad having last played when League earlier this year has not developed as
a Ligue 1 regular after Conference’s regular season that won AFCON 2017. His Cameroon won the 2017 with his American club, prestigiously as many
playing a prominent role in Major League Soccer career has taken him to AFCON. Started both WC where he is a big fans’ predicted it would.
in Ajaccio’s promotion at this year. Fai’s understudy Belgium, Czech Republic, warm-up games centrally favourite for his antics on Nonetheless, still a first
the end of last season. for the Indomitable Lions. Romania and Germany. in a back three and a four. the left side of defence. choice for his country.
31 50 2 10 4 21
1 0 0 0 0 0
Pierre KUNDE Georges MANDJECK Olivier NTCHAM Jean ONANA Gael ONDOUA Samuel OUM GOUET
Olympiakos (Gre) Nea Salamis Famagusta (Cyp) Swansea City (Wal) Lens (Fra) Hannover (Ger) Mechelen (Bel)
Signed as a teenager by Recalled to the squad French junior international Nkufo Academy product, Has had a journeyman Has been a regular
Atletico Madrid, he has in September after who has come late onto the defensive midfielder career with clubs in Russia, for the Indomitable Lions
played in Spain (Granada, last appearing for the the Cameroon scene but made his way to Ligue 1 Denmark, Switzerland and through this year’s Cup of
Extremadura), Germany Indomitable Lions at the played for Marseille, Celtic through Portugal and now in the German second Nations finals and World
(Mainz) and qualifiers for 2019 AFCON in Egypt. and now in the EFL. Once signed for Lens after division. One of the new Cup qualifying play-offs
the UEFA Champions Offers a wealth of of Le Havre and Manchester Bordeaux were relegated faces in the squad since as one of the defensive-
League (Olympiakos). experience in midfield. City’s academy systems. in the last campaign. Song took charge. minded midfielders.
42 89 68 2 41 1
5 33 18 0 4 0
Andre-Frank ZAMBO ANGUISSA Vincent ABOUBAKAR Eric-Maxim CHOUPO-MOTING Bryan MBEUMO Moumi NGAMALEU Georges-Kevin NKOUDOU
Napoli (Ita) Al Nassr (KSA) Bayern Munich (Ger) Brentford (Eng) Dynamo Moscow (Rus) Besiktas (Tur)
FORWARDS
Box-to-box midfielder, key Captain of the team, Played at the 2010 and Switched his international His wide play is a massive Played for France in the
in both defence and attack who was picked at the 2014 World Cups after allegiance after playing for part of Cameroon’s attack 2017 U21 Euros qualifying
– one of the rare Cameroon age of 18 for the 2010 switching allegiance from France at junior level. A and he should be one of campaign when he was
midfielders with a goal in World Cup finals as the Germany, where he was small, stocky and quick the first on the team sheet still at Tottenham Hotspur
him. Was sold by Fulham man to succeed Samuel a junior international. His left-footed forward who in Qatar. Made his debut but is a late addition to
to Napoli in the summer Eto’o. Scored eight goals career has seen him play has adapted well to life for Coton Sport as a the Cameroon squad after
after a successful loan. at the 2021 AFCON. for Stoke City and PSG. in the Premier League. 17-year-old in 2013. a switch of loyalty.
4 50
0 12
ALSO IN CONTENTION
GOALKEEPERS James Bienvenue DJAOYANG (Canon Yaounde),

Simon OMOSSOLA (AS Vita Club), Fabrice ONDOA (Auda, Lva)
Jean-Pierre NSAME Karl TOKO EKAMBI DEFENDERS Sacha BOEY (Galatasaray, Tur), Harold MOUKOUDI (AEK Athens, Gre), Jerome ONGUENE
(Eintracht Frankfurt, Ger), Ambroise OYONGO (Unattached), Duplexe TCHAMBA (Casa Pia, Ita), Enzo
Young Boys (Sui) Lyon (Fra) TCHATO (Montpellier, Fra), Christopher WOOH (Rennes, Fra), Darlin YONGWA (Lorient, Fra)
Age 29 (01.05.93) Age 30 (14.09.92)
Winner of four Swiss French-born wide attacker MIDFIELDERS Brice AMBINA (Cape Town City, RSA), Arnaud DJOUM (Unattached), Jeando
league titles and scorer who scored the last-gasp FUCHS (Peterborough United, Eng), James LEA SILIKI (Estoril, Por), Yvan NEYOU (Leganes, Spa)
of more than 100 goals goal against Algeria that
for Young Boys, who was ensured WC qualification. FORWARDS Stephane BAHOKEN (Kasimpasa, Tur), Christian BASSOGOG (Shanghai Shenhua, Chn), Ignatius GANAGO
recalled to the squad A consistent scorer for (Nantes, Fra), Didier LAMKEL ZE (Kortrijk, Bel), Daniel NAMASSO LOADER (Porto, Por), Clinton NJIE (Sivasspor,
in September after a club and country over Tur), Kevin SONI (Hatayspor, Tur), Leandre TAWAMBA (Al Taawoun, KSA), Patient WASSOU (CotonSport)
three-year absence. the past couple of years.

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> CANADA
Hitting new heights

After years of anonymity, Canada arrive at
Qatar as one of the tournament’s dark horses
anada have only ever
C appeared in one World Cup

finals previous to Qatar 2022,
finishing bottom of a group
containing the Soviet Union, France and
Hungary without a point or goal to their
name at Mexico ’86. Since then, plenty
of misery has ensued for Les Rouges.
Before the current campaign, they last
made the final stage of CONCACAF’s
qualifying tournament in the build-up
to France ’98, but even then they
finished rock bottom. One to watch...
In 2012 during the Brazil 2014 (L-R) Cyle Larin,
preliminaries, they faced Honduras Jonathan David,
Jonathan Osorio
knowing that a draw would be good and Richie Laryea
enough to see them reach the final
qualifying stage. Instead, they suffered
a humiliating 8-1 defeat at the Estadio both in the short and long-term. Bayern
Olimpico Metropolitano in San Pedro Munich’s Alphonso Davies, Club Brugge’s
Sula. Atiba Hutchinson was on the pitch Tajon Buchanan and Lille ace Jonathan
that day, while goalkeeper Milan Borjan David all offer genuine attacking threat
was on the bench, so it is remarkable at 23 years old or younger, while midfield
that ten years later they will be two of lynchpin Stephen Eustaquio is 25 and top
the leaders in a team that are heading scorer in qualifying, Cyle Larin, is 27.
to the World Cup, having booked their It’s not been all plain sailing, as
place in Qatar in style. Canada cancelled their June friendly
After making it through the first and against Iran following criticism, then
second rounds with ease, Canada went scrambled to organise another against
undefeated in the first 11 of their 14 Panama that wasn’t played due to
final-round matches. They eventually a dispute between the players and
finished above regional heavyweights association regarding prize money.
Mexico on goal difference to top the While that could be seen as
group, but were perhaps even more preparation time wasted, this team
impressive than that fine margin is trying to move Canadian football
forward in every
way possible.
John Herdman’s side scored the most The next step
goals [in CONCACAF qualifying] and is to prove they
conceded the fewest while playing can compete on
the biggest stage
scintillating football at times of them all.
Danny Lewis
suggests. John Herdman’s side scored
the most goals and conceded the fewest
while playing scintillating football at times. JOHN HERDMAN your team was during qualifying?
A keyword in our identity was that we did
With the team heading off to Qatar in not want to be passive. Pioneering is a really
2022 before Vancouver’s BC Place and Does having a background in women’s important word for this Canadian men’s team
Toronto’s BMO Field host World Cup football give you a unique profile? because we felt there was so much that we
I think so. The difference between coaching could achieve that was new; whether that was
matches four years later, Canadians
men and women is not major, but subtle. One some of the results on the road, finishing
can be genuinely excited for what of the skills I’ve developed on my journey as top of CONCACAF or going unbeaten. We
is to come on the international stage. a women’s national team coach is probably came very, very close, going 17 games
This also follows the creation of the the fact that I’ve got so much experience in unbeaten in the qualification journey.
Canadian Premier League, which big events, such as at Olympic Games and
World Cups. We’ve been to a lot of national What is your assessment of your group
was first contested in 2019 and has
tournaments. There aren’t many managers with Belgium, Croatia and Morocco?
already proven itself as a platform who get that amount of experience. Belgium and Croatia, they are top-five level
for players to move to Europe. in the world with the players that they have.
The talent in Herdman’s squad Were you surprised at how dominant Belgium haven’t been beaten by an underdog
undoubtedly adds to that excitement

New heights...
Tajon Buchanan’s
acrobatic celebration
in the past six years. That is a monumental are and where we might have disadvantages to your team and set-up in Qatar?
task for us. No different for Croatia. We saw and tactically be ready to bridge that gap. He’s the only player that I’m aware of in
them beat France recently and you see the Players come in from club environments and and around my squad that’s even got past
competence of their midfield three. It’s a have different tactical habits. Alphonso Davies Unique profile... the Champions League quarter-final. We
sobering process when you get into deep is playing for Bayern Munich in a completely Herdman’s managerial don’t have those tier-one players. Alphonso
scouting looking at these teams. The reality different position, but they are predominantly grounding came in the is going to provide that next-level quality
is that we don’t have a great amount of the protagonists in every game. So coming women’s game and, more importantly, his identity opens
expectation from the world on us. We have into a team like Canada, it is different up opportunities for other
our own expectations and we have got good – we’ll be underdogs against all three players as he’s targeted.
internal motivators, plus anyone can beat of our opponents given the quality Even just his presence on
anyone in tournament football on a given day advantages they have. I’ve worked the field gives players more
so that’s the spirit we will be playing with. on a number of different formations opportunity to be impactful
to become adaptable in games and because time and space can
How important is it to be flexible? to try to make us hard to scout. appear for players who
You have to recognise each opponent. You need that time and space.
have to balance up where their advantages How key will Alphonso Davies be Samindra Kunti

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> CANADA
TACTICS SCHEDULE
PRE-WORLD CUP
A flexible approach Sep 23
2-0 v Qatar
(Vienna)
Sep 27
ohn Herdman showed flexibility 0-2 v Uruguay
J with his tactics throughout the

qualifiers, deploying a back three
or four – even switching between
the two in-game at times. The indication
is that a 4-4-2 will be the base formation
(Bratislava)
Nov 17 v Japan
(Dubai)
in Qatar. No matter the system, a lot of

attacking wing play can be expected from
the likes of Alphonso Davies and Tajon
Buchanan, with Jonathan David and Going to Qatar...
Sam Adekugbe
Cyle Larin aiming to capitalise on their
creativity. European fans will be used to GROUP GAMES
seeing Davies as a left-back for Bayern Nov 23
Munich, but Herdman often plays him in v Belgium
(Al Rayyan)
a more advanced role, even as a No.10.
Nov 27
Another man likely to prove integral for v Croatia
Les Rouges is Porto’s Stephen Eustaquio, (Al Rayyan)
somebody Herdman has referred to as Dec 1
“a coach on the field”. Not only will he be v Morocco
(Doha)
tasked with dictating the tempo of their
play with his range of passing, but he can
also help break up opposition attacks.
The most likely players to fill a back
four are Alistair Johnston, Steven Vitoria,
Kamal Miller and Sam Adekugbe. A key
Adekugbe Davies
part of the flexibility behind Herdman’s
approach is Johnston’s ability to play as Key man...
a conventional right-back or a right-sided Alphonso Davies
centre-back in a three – he can also play
at right wing-back. Richie Laryea’s Miller Eustaquio David
flexibility should also prove useful.
Borjan
Vitoria Hutchinson Larin
Johnston Buchanan
Goalscorer...
Jonathan David
THE VIEW FROM CANADA COACH

“There is hope among Canada’s soccer John HERDMAN (Eng)
New heights...
community that this World Cup could John Herdman Age 47 (19.07.75)
change the landscape of the sport in Appointed January 2018
the country. Canada are underdogs, yes.
But they play with pace and boatloads of John Herdman took a massive risk
enthusiasm, which could not only cause in switching from Canada’s women’s
some surprises in the group stage but team to their men in 2018. He had
also garner plenty of eyeballs at home.” won Olympic bronze twice during
Joshua Kloke, staff writer, The Athletic seven years in charge of the women’s
side, while many won’t have even
“It’s all about firsts at this World Cup: get dreamed of the men reaching a major
that first goal, a first win and, if all goes tournament. Yet, they’re at a World
well, a first progression to the knockout Cup four years later and much of the
stages. Any positive momentum that credit must go to Herdman himself. Not
Canada can build ahead of co-hosting only have his on-field tactics worked,
the 2026 tournament, the better.” he’s changed the team’s mentality and
Alexandre Gangue-Ruzic, taken charge at all levels to reach
web editor, One Soccer previously unthinkable heights.

67 15 1 33 44 28
0 0 0 1 1 1
Milan BORJAN Maxime CREPEAU Dayne ST CLAIR Sam ADEKUGBE Doneil HENRY Alistair JOHNSTON
Red Star Belgrade (Srb) LAFC (USA) Minnesota United (USA) Hatayspor (Tur) Toronto FC CF Montreal
GOALKEEPERS
DEFENDERS
Winner of the last five Will be the second It’s unlikely he’ll see any The marauding left- A reliable member of the Can play on the right of
Serbian titles, Canada’s choice behind Borjan minutes in Qatar, but back produced plenty squad who should go to a back three or four, and
No.1 even showed he having established St Clair has a growing of iconic moments Qatar despite not playing his strike resulted in Larin
can score a penalty, himself as one of the reputation within MLS and in qualifying, jumping many minutes at club level scoring the opener against
against Vozdovac, last best goalkeepers in Canada. Made his debut in in the snow against this season. Journeyman Mexico. Featured more
season. Made his Major League Soccer. the qualifiers, keeping a Mexico and scoring who has played in Cyprus, than any other player
Canada bow in 2011. A safe pair of hands. clean sheet versus Aruba. against the USA. England and South Korea. during the qualifiers.
8 32 27 34 0 25
0 1 0 3 0 4
Scott KENNEDY Richie LARYEA Kamal MILLER Steven VITORIA Joel WATERMAN Tajon BUCHANAN
Jahn Regensburg (Ger) Toronto FC CF Montreal Chaves (Por) CF Montreal Club Brugge (Bel)
MIDFIELDERS
After struggling for minutes The full-back’s versatility Injury permitting, a There were concerns the Has been in superb form A direct threat on
at the start of the season, will be a great tool for certain starter with the veteran would stagnate this season, even popping the wing who helped to
he’s regularly playing again Herdman, especially now ability to carry the ball when Moreirense were up with some goals, which ensure Canada troubled
in Germany’s second tier. he’s getting minutes after out from centre-back relegated, but his form could force Herdman to CONCACAF defences in
Likely in a battle with returning to Toronto FC on after winning possession. since joining Chaves leaves include him. Would be qualifying while Davies
fellow centre-back Derek loan from Premier League Named in the 2022 him brilliantly prepared. especially useful if Canada was missing. A fixture
Cornelius for a place. side Nottingham Forest. MLS All-Star team. Made his debut aged 29. revert to a back three. out wide on the right.
7 34 26 97 36 4
2 12 3 9 2 0
Theo CORBEANU Alphonso DAVIES Stephen EUSTAQUIO Atiba HUTCHINSON Mark-Anthony KAYE Ismael KONE
Blackpool (Eng) Bayern Munich (Ger) Porto (Por) Besiktas (Tur) Toronto FC CF Montreal
The blistering winger’s Canada’s golden boy will The key man in Canada’s Experienced every A versatile and reliable There wasn’t time to
impressive Championship be playing much higher midfield. He’ll break up possible emotion since 6ft 1in midfielder with complete his proposed
form saw him recalled to the up the pitch than he does attacks and orchestrate making his Canada debut box-to-box capabilities Sheffield United move, but
national team in September for Bayern Munich. He Les Rouges’ passing game. back in 2003, and could who can also dictate the Kone should avoid further
and could take him to Qatar. has registered fantastic The only concern is he become a centurion at the play with his passing. disappointment after
On loan from Wolves, he’s an numbers so far, so expect doesn’t play week-in, World Cup. Has won three Featured regularly impressing in Canada’s
ex-Romanian youth player. plenty of entertainment. week-out for his club. league titles in Turkey. during the qualifiers. recent friendlies.
16 55 64 32 34 49
0 7 0 17 22 14
Liam MILLAR Jonathan OSORIO Samuel PIETTE Lucas CAVALLINI Jonathan DAVID Junior HOILETT
Basel (Sui) Toronto FC CF Montreal Vancouver Whitecaps Lille (Fra) Reading (Eng)
FORWARDS
The Liverpool academy Toronto FC’s all-time A reliable and combative A big presence up A forward who has more Hoilett is a consistent
graduate should lead the top appearance maker’s midfielder who can be a top who could come goal contributions than performer for Canada who
competition for back-up equaliser at the Azteca leader for Canada on the off the bench and cause appearances for Canada can conjure up moments
places on the wing having – their first goal there pitch and in the changing havoc among opposition and will be hoping to keep of magic. Plays on both
helped Basel reach the since 1980 – was one room. Enjoyed his youth defences. Has a good that record up. A move to wings and can even fill in
Europa Conference of Canada’s most iconic career in France (Metz) scoring record for a big club looks on the as an attacking wing-back.
League group stage. moments in qualifying. and Germany (Dusseldorf). his country. horizon in 2023. Made his debut in 2015.
54 8
25 0
ALSO IN CONTENTION
GOALKEEPERS Thomas HASAL (Vancouver Whitecaps), Jayson LEUTWILER (Oldham Athletic, Eng)
DEFENDERS Zachary BRAULT-GUILLARD (CF Montreal), Derek CORNELIUS (Panetolikos, Gre), Raheem
Cyle LARIN Ike UGBO EDWARDS (LA Galaxy, USA), Cristian GUTIERREZ (Vancouver Whitecaps), Lukas MACNAUGHTON (Toronto FC)
Club Brugge (Bel) Troyes (Fra)
Age 27 (17.04.95) Age 24 (21.09.98) MIDFIELDERS Liam FRASER (Deinze, Bel), Luca KOLEOSHO (Espanyol, Spa), Jacob
The top scorer in Possessing a strong SHAFFELBURG (Nashville SC, USA), David WOTHERSPOON (St Johnstone, Sco)
CONCACAF qualifying scoring record in club
with 13 goals and already football and England’s FORWARDS Ayo AKINOLA (Toronto FC), Charles-Andreas BRYM (FC Eindhoven, Ned)
Canada’s all-time leading youth teams, he’ll be
goalscorer. Can he get dreaming of a fairy-tale
Canada’s first-ever first Canada goal on the
World Cup goal? world’s biggest stage.

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> COSTA RICA
The miracle men

For Costa Rica, simply reaching Qatar
is a remarkable achievement in itself
osta Rica have been regular
C participants in recent World

Cups, but this time around it
took them a virtual miracle to
qualify for Qatar 2022. After a terrible
start to the qualifiers, the Tricolor won
Match winner...
Joel Campbell
struck Costa Rica’s
winner against
New Zealand
six and drew one of their last seven

games to clinch their ticket to the
inter-confederational play-offs,
where they defeated Oceania’s New
Zealand by the narrowest of margins.
This great moment of form, added to
the still fresh memory of their excellent
performances in Brazil 2014, where
they reached the quarter-finals, could
make one think of the Costa Ricans as
one of the surprise packages in Qatar,
but the reality is there are several
factors that make it complicated. and Celso Borges have returned to
Firstly, this Costa Rican side has had Costa Rica after long and productive
a difficult time with the generational careers in Europe. Oscar Duarte has
change. It is true that coach Luis left Spain to play in Saudi Arabia, while
Fernando Suarez did a great job Bryan Oviedo and Francisco Calvo (two
incorporating young talents, such as veterans who did not feature at Brazil
Jewison Bennette, Brandon Aguilera 2014) ply their trade in MLS and Turkey
and Orlando Galo, but the reality is respectively. Only Joel Campbell, now
that the core continues to be that of based in Mexico’s LigaMX, plays at the
the illustrious veterans of 2014, and same standard of years past, but he
will have at least five starters that too seems to have started his decline.
starred in Brazil and are now over 30. Despite this, as always, Costa Rica will
Also, young players are perhaps too fight. Under the guidance of an intelligent
young. In the squad that was picked for and very professional coach in Suarez,
the play-off match against New Zealand, with one of the best goalkeepers in the
there were 12 players over 30 years of world in the form of Keylor Navas, and
age and eight players under 24 years of with maximum motivation and the
experience of
those displays
This Costa Rican side has had a in past World
difficult time with the generational Cups, none of
change...the core continues to be that the Tricolor’s rivals
will have it easy.
of the illustrious veterans of 2014 Martin del
Palacio Langer
age. The generation in the middle has
not been able to pick up the slack and
the youngsters, while talented, are LUIS FERNANDO SUAREZ public react to these changes?
The group focused on one thing, to play
clearly lacking in experience. each game as if it were their last. There
To add insult to injury, the group You took over the team in a difficult was very good synergy, a great mood.
appears to be extremely tough. With situation just before the qualifiers. How That emotionally infected the entire
did you manage to reverse the fortunes? Costa Rican public who believed in
Germany and Spain as big favourites,
The only thing that we did was look for what we were doing, and fortunately
and Japan, a team with a solid player some ways to change, to make a different we qualified for the World Cup.
base in Europe, the Costa Ricans appear structure. We trained extensively with the
prime candidates to finish rock bottom. players from the domestic league. We called To qualify, you had to go through
It is true that the predictions were even a lot of very young players who performed a play-off with New Zealand.
and we started to get results. We also did It was a very hard match, we knew it was
worse at Brazil 2014, but that team had
a lot of psychological work and that is going to be like that, we had talked about it
several players at the peak of their why the situation was reversed. with the group, that it was going to be very
performance, which does not physical and that we had to keep our focus
seem to be the case today. How did the players and the Costa Rican during the 90 minutes. It helped us a lot to
Among the veterans, Bryan Ruiz

Miracle men...
Costa Rica players
celebrate after edging
out New Zealand in
the play-offs
have scored quickly and then to assert the aware that we must respect our rivals, and the players are as prepared as possible
defensive zone, which has been one of our that there will be matches where we will not when facing our rivals.
strengths during this time. We switched to be favourites, but the matches are won or
a five-man back line at half-time which also lost after playing them, not before. Costa Rica had a great World Cup in
worked. But above all, I emphasised that Underdogs...Costa 2014. Does that provide motivation?
we had to stay focused the whole match How have you been preparing Rica reached the Obviously the good work in that World
and that’s exactly what group did. for the tournament? quarter-finals in 2014 Cup is a reference for us. We have six
We are looking to collect as much players who were in Brazil,
You have a tough group with Germany, detail as possible from each of the [Navas, Ruiz, Borges, Tejeda,
Spain and Japan. How do you assess it? rivals, to ensure that the players Campbell and Duarte], who
We have a complicated group, with two past know very quickly the strengths are going to remember that
world champions, countries with a great and weaknesses of every one of experience and are going to
history and many triumphs, and we have them and, later, when we face remind their team-mates
an agile, modern team like the Japanese. them, we will be completely of what happened. It will
In consequence, we have to prepare well in focused. We are going to give help for sure.
every way and that’s where we are. We are them all the elements so that Martin del Palacio Langer

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> COSTA RICA
TACTICS SCHEDULE
PRE-WORLD CUP
Prioritising defence Sep 23
2-2 v South Korea
(Goyang)
Sep 27
ince Luis Fernando Suarez 2-1 v Uzbekistan
S decided to alter the approach

after the team’s bad run of
results at the beginning of the
qualifiers he has adopted a 4-5-1, the
same system he used at the start against
(Suwon)
New Zealand, which prioritises defensive

solidity and tries to create danger with On target...Jewison
their fast wingers in attack. Bennette netted twice
against South Korea
However, as the team will face
powerful opponents during the World GROUP GAMES
Cup, there is some thought that he may Nov 23
switch to a five-man back line, a variant v Spain
(Doha)
he has used often in recent matches.
Nov 27
In that case, Joel Campbell or Anthony v Japan
Contreras would assume more midfield (Al Rayyan)
functions, with Gerson Torres the player Dec 1
sacrificed to bring in Kendall Waston v Germany
(Al Khor)
as the additional central defender. The
problem, is that it is an even more cautious
system with Los Ticos solely relying on
counter-attacks to generate any danger.
The biggest issue however, may come
in midfield. There is new, young talent in
defence and attack, but in midfield there
Oviedo Bennette
is still no renewal. The starters, Celso
Borges and Yeltsin Tejeda, are over 30 Key player...keeper
and the alternative is the even more Keylor Navas will be
veteran Bryan Ruiz. Orlando Galo has a busy man in Qatar
huge promise, but, at 22, he still may Duarte Borges
not be ready for a leading role.
Navas Campbell Contreras
Calvo Tejeda
Fuller Torres
Veteran...
Bryan Ruiz
THE VIEW FROM COSTA RICA COACH

“It is clear that Costa Rica have improved Luis Fernando SUAREZ (Col)
Experienced...
but it was also evident that they barely Luis Fernando Age 62 (23.12.59)
qualified. The main question asked by the Suarez Appointed June 2021
fans and the press in the face of a very
complicated group is: ‘How to improve Suarez has almost 30 years’ coaching
for the World Cup?’ It does seem like a experience, with spells in charge of clubs
difficult task, but there is some optimism in Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Mexico.
given the experience of the team.” He qualified Ecuador for the 2006 World
Diego Picado, freelance journalist Cup (where they reached the knockout
stages for the first time in their history),
“The last World Cup left us very beaten Honduras in 2014, and now Costa Rica
and in the qualifiers we suffered until when all seemed lost. However, there
the last minute. The hope is that Costa really was no miracle on his part for Los
Rica always grow against complicated Ticos’ latest qualification. With just one
rivals, and in their group they will play win from their first seven qualifiers, it was
plenty, but in football terms we are merely a case of it taking a few months
far from a good level to compete.” of his stint in charge for his players to
Juan Carlos Aguero, TV Mas commentator understand what he wanted from them.

24 3 107 75 69 30
0 0 0 8 3 2
Esteban ALVARADO Aaron CRUZ Keylor NAVAS Francisco CALVO Oscar DUARTE Keysher FULLER
Herediano Saprissa Paris Saint-Germain (Fra) Konyaspor (Tur) Al Wehda (KSA) Herediano
GOALKEEPERS
DEFENDERS
Tall and sensible Fast goalkeeper with Costa Rica’s heart and Has formed a reliable Long-standing first-choice Entrepreneurial right-
goalkeeper with a very good command soul, and still the best centre-back partnership centre-back since 2014, back who has constantly
experience in Europe, of his penalty area. A player in the team by far. with Duarte for years making his debut in 2010, featured for Suarez, but
enjoying stints in Turkey Suarez favourite, who The undisputed No.1 and and should continue and will be one of the is still not guaranteed a
and the Netherlands. could become first choice will start every match at the to do so. Saw minimal essential pieces for Suarez place in the starting XI
Has been a long-time with the gloves after World Cup despite being action at Russia 2018 in Qatar. Scored at Brazil with several candidates
understudy to Navas. the World Cup. second choice at PSG. playing at left-back. 2014 against Uruguay. vying for the spot.
78 6 52 75 12 61
3 0 3 2 1 8
Cristian GAMBOA Carlos MARTINEZ Ronald MATARRITA Bryan OVIEDO Juan Pablo VARGAS Kendall WASTON
Bochum (Ger) San Carlos FC Cincinnati (USA) Real Salt Lake (USA) Millonarios (Col) Saprissa
Was injured or sick with An offensive alternative at Usually the first-choice The ex-Sunderland and Considered one of the Herculean centre-back,
COVID during most of right-back, who was formed left-back, but fractured Everton left-back is not the best centre-backs in the good in the air and often
Suarez’s tenure. Trying to in Qatar (coming through his ankle in early 2022 player that he was, but he Colombian league, his used when Suarez deploys
make a late push to be in the Aspire Academy) and in a World Cup qualifier is still extremely competent recent form might help a five-man defence. Scored
the squad, but could be Belgium (playing for Eupen) against Canada and has and will probably start in him get a spot in the the 95th-minute equaliser
edged out by Ricardo before returning to play only just recovered in Qatar given Matarrita’s starting XI – especially versus Honduras which sent
Blanco or Kliver Gomez. in Costa Rica in 2019. time for Qatar. lack of match practice. if Suarez opts for 5-4-1. Costa Rica to Russia 2018.
4 153 10 26 12 144
0 27 0 0 0 29
Brandon AGUILERA Celso BORGES Orlando GALO Randall LEAL Alonso MARTINEZ Bryan RUIZ
Guanacasteca Alajuelense Herediano Nashville SC (USA) Lommel (Bel) Alajuelense
MIDFIELDERS
Mercurial playmaker, Made his debut in 2008 One of the best young Experienced left-winger Right-winger who has According to coach Suarez,
signed by Nottingham and has definitely lost a step players in the country, can who seemed to be on the also suffered with injuries “the only untouchable in
Forest in the summer from the player he was in play as a right-back or fringes because of injury, and COVID. Now finally the team”. One of Costa
but loaned straight the past, but still essential defensive midfielder. but now back in the fold. recovered in Belgium at Rica’s most successful
back to Costa Rica. off the pitch for Suarez. Has Impressed in the World His place could come under Lommel, part of the City exports, having played for
A very young and played in Norway, Sweden, Cup qualifying victory threat from some of the Football Group, and Gent, Twente, Fulham, PSV,
promising player. Spain and Turkey. over the United States. younger candidates. pushing for a spot. Sporting and Santos.
3 72 13 7 118 9
0 0 1 2 25 2
Youstin SALAS Yeltsin TEJEDA Gerson TORRES Jewison BENNETTE Joel CAMPBELL Anthony CONTRERAS
Saprissa Herediano Herediano Sunderland (Eng) Leon (Mex) Herediano
FORWARDS
A fine run of form on loan Another of the veterans One of the brightest The most promising Legendary attacker who Young striker, good in
at Grecia from Herediano of 2014 despite being only hopes of a team in dire player the country has still performs at a high the air and has a great
caught the attention of 30. He’s still an essential need of renovation. at the moment. Powerful level in the Mexican league. chance of making the
Suarez – and Saprissa, cog in the team’s midfield. Fast right-winger with left-winger, recently Ex-Arsenal, a stalwart of starting XI. Had loan spells
who signed him in the Played more minutes in experience in Mexico signed by Sunderland the team and the scorer at four different clubs and
summer. Can play as an qualifying than any having had spells at after a breakthrough of the goal that qualified only broke into the senior
anchorman or right-back. other midfielder. America and Necaxa. season at Herediano. Costa Rica for Qatar. team this time last year.
4 81
0 11
ALSO IN CONTENTION
GOALKEEPERS Leonel MOREIRA (Alajuelense), Patrick SEQUEIRA (Lugo, Spa)
DEFENDERS Ricardo BLANCO (Saprissa), Kliver GOMEZ (Puntarenas), Ian LAWRENCE

Carlos MORA Johan VENEGAS (Alajuelense), Juan Luis PEREZ (San Carlos), Aaron SALAZAR (Herediano)
Alajuelense Alajuelense
Age 21 (18.03.01) Age 33 (27.11.88) MIDFIELDERS Daniel CHACON (Cartagines), Allen GUEVARA (Cartagines), Douglas LOPEZ (Santos
Quick, explosive young Veteran striker who’s still de Guapiles), Aaron SUAREZ (Alajuelense), Roan WILSON (Grecia), Alvaro ZAMORA (Saprissa)
attacker who has been scoring at a very good rate
picked by Suarez despite for Alajuelense but has lost FORWARDS Anthony HERNANDEZ (Puntarenas), Jose Guillermo ORTIZ (Herediano)
not being an automatic his international starting
first choice at his club. spot to Contreras. Spent
Made his debut in the three seasons in MLS
win over USA in March. from 2015 to 2017.

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> CROATIA
Youth and experience

Croatia’s class of 2018 have been joined by
a smattering of young, new squad members
ife under coach Zlatko Dalic
L got off to a near-perfect start

for Croatia, as they reached
the World Cup final in Russia
less than a year after he took charge.
Since then his record has been mixed.
Runners-up...
Croatia celebrate
scoring in the
2018 World
Cup final
They finished bottom of the group in the

inaugural Nations League campaign –
featuring a particularly painful 6-0 loss
to Spain – managed only one win in six
in the 2020-21 edition, then produced a
disappointing performance at Euro 2020,
despite losing to Spain in rather eye-
catching fashion in the last 16.
Since securing his side’s place in be ruthless in selecting his team. Only
Qatar, Dalic has set about refreshing the most in-form players would be
the side with some new, young players selected for Qatar, the coach insisted,
– Josko Gvardiol, Josip Sutalo, Martin regardless of their history with the
Erlic and Josip Stanisic in defence, national team. Stalwarts from 2018 like
and Luka Sucic in midfield – who will, Domagoj Vida (Beskitas to AEK) and
according to the coach, “keep Croatia Sime Vrsaljko (Atletico to Olympiakos),
at a high level for the next ten years.” changed clubs in order to try to force
It was certainly a team in need of their way into the side – although the
refreshment. The excellent midfield – latter retired from international duty
led by Luka Modric and supported by in August. The same applied to Nikola
Marcelo Brozovic, Mateo Kovacic and Vlasic (West Ham to Torino), a key man
Ivan Perisic – remains Croatia’s strongest for Croatia for the past three years but
asset, but this will almost certainly be getting little playing time in England.
their final major tournament as a unit. The result is a squad featuring youth
The early signs for this new-look and experience, with competition across
team are encouraging. Croatia are the board. For the young players it will
unbeaten in five games, qualifying for be an opportunity to grow and develop,
the 2022-23 Nations League finals while the veterans Brozovic, Perisic and
after topping a group featuring France, Modric shoulder most of the responsibility.
Denmark and Austria. Their target – as Croatia will not be among the World
Cup favourites, but
neither were they
Croatia’s target – as it has been at France ’98 or in
at every major tournament since Russia in 2018. Dalic
Euro ’96 – will be to get through the is hoping his team
can spring yet
group, and then see what happens another surprise.
Zdravko Reic
it has been at every major tournament
since Euro ’96 – will be to get through
the group, and then see what happens. ZLATKO DALIC we couldn’t count on that connection. That
was one of the key differences between
“We are a top national team and we Croatia in 2018 and Croatia in 2021.
have to behave and act like that,” says What are your thoughts on your
Vedran Corluka, who was in the squad team’s performance at Euro 2020? Luka Modric was going to retire after Euro
Unfortunately, Euro 2020 did not have the 2020. What is the secret to his longevity?
in 2018 and now serves as Dalic’s
usual atmosphere of a major tournament, He is unbelievable. Of course, to play at such
assistant. “We are able to disrupt the due to the pandemic. I understand the idea a high level at his age, you need to be a true
plans of the strongest opponents.” behind the Pan-European concept, but it professional, take care of your body, work
That ability to compete with the best made it impossible to enjoy. Considering the hard, be careful what you eat. But what sets
was demonstrated in June, when Croatia circumstances, I think our result was fine him apart is his passion for football. Even after
– we got through the group stage against everything he has won, he still enjoys playing
beat France 1-0 in Paris, their first-ever
two hosts [England and Scotland], and we as if he were a 15-year-old; after big wins, he
win against the world champions. It was took an excellent Spain team to extra-time is the happiest person in the dressing room.
a victory that boosted the confidence of in a really exciting game. But we’re a team That competitive spirit is something you can’t
the team, especially the young players. that feeds on the energy of its fans, and teach. I think there is no doubt that he is our
Moreover, it gave Dalic the strength to

Youth and
experience...Ivan
Perisic celebrates a
goal with Lovro Majer
and Mario Pasalic
greatest player; no one can compare to a strong team that can match anybody. order to progress to the last 16.
Luka’s achievements with Real and Croatia.
What is your assessment of Group F What would be a good achievement
How does this team compare to 2018? with Belgium, Morocco and Canada? for Croatia in Qatar?
We had an excellent team in 2018, with It’s a competitive and interesting group. Evergreen...Modric The key goal is always to qualify for
many players on top of their game, with the Belgium are a world-class team, with a made his Croatia the World Cup, which is not easy to do
experience of playing for the biggest clubs coach and players that I highly respect. debut in 2006 in Europe. Look at excellent teams who
on the biggest stages. That experience might Morocco are traditionally one of are not there, like European
be the biggest difference because now we’ll the best African teams; they’re a champions Italy, for the second
have several first-team players who will play talented footballing nation. Finally, time in a row. Now that we are
their first World Cup. We still have experience Canada have a number of talented qualified, we would like to go
with Modric, Perisic, Kovacic, Brozovic and players, as they showed during the through the group stage, and
Lovren, and we also have ambitious, hungry qualifiers. We believe we have a that would be a success for us.
young players who have a lot of potential, good chance of going through, but For more than that, you need
like Josko Gvardiol who, at 20 years old, every game is going to be difficult a little bit of luck.
is already a top centre-back. We have and we’ll have to be at our best in Samindra Kunti

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> CROATIA
TACTICS SCHEDULE
PRE-WORLD CUP
Modric’s midfield magic Sep 22
2-1 v Denmark
(Zagreb)
Sep 25
s usual, Croatia arrive at a 3-1 v Austria
A tournament with midfield

their strongest area, led by
the ageless Luka Modric.
With a new-look defence, bolstered by
some new, young faces, they will be a
(Vienna)
Nov 16
v Saudi Arabia
(Riyadh)
tough nut to crack for most opponents.

After a brief experiment with a back
three, Dalic has reverted to the formation
that Croatia’s previous success has been
Nations League...
built on, with the midfield triumvirate of top of the group
Modric, Marcelo Brozovic and Mateo
Kovacic providing the backbone of the GROUP GAMES
team. Ivan Perisic provides attacking Nov 23
v Morocco
thrust from either wing, but there are (Al Khor)
problems at centre-forward, where Mario Nov 27
Mandzukic has not yet been replaced. v Canada
Andrej Kramaric has been deployed (Al Rayyan)
up front, though he is more of a second- Dec 1
v Belgium
striker, while Ante Budimir has taken (Al Rayyan)
on the role more recently. With neither
player entirely convincing, the door has
been opened to Marko Livaja, a former
prodigy who topped the scoring charts
in the Croatian top flight last season by
Sosa Perisic
bagging 28 goals for Hajduk Split.
Whoever gets the nod in attack, Main man...
Dalic’s approach will be built around Luka Modric
a compact and well-organised team,
relying on crafty midfield manoeuvres Gvardiol Modric
to open up opposition defences.
Livakovic Brozovic Kramaric
Sutalo Kovacic
Juranovic Majer
Next generation
...Josko Gvardiol
THE VIEW FROM CROATIA COACH

“Croatia fans are not getting carried Zlatko DALIC
In sync...
away, knowing that this team peaked Dalic and Age 56 (26.10.66)
in Russia four years ago. Croatia still Modric Appointed October 2017
has some fine midfielders but lack a
world-class striker and the defence is Dalic faces the most difficult task of his
struggling too. Still, I expect Croatia to tenure in Qatar: proving that this team
progress to the knockout stages, which is still capable of competing with the
will probably be the end of the journey.” elite of world football. That means not
Drazen Kruselj,Jutarnji list only making it out of the group, but also
upsetting the favourites in the knockout
“I expect Croatia to surprise the world phase. Dalic inherited the team that
again in Qatar. We have an excellent mix came second in Russia in 2018, but
of experience and youth. The first match now it is entirely his work and creation,
is very important, as victory brings peace featuring a combination of experienced
and security. This is particularly important players and young, emerging talents. His
for the psychology of the young players relationship with Luka Modric is vital; the
at their first tournament.” captain acts as the manager’s voice on
Igor Stimac, former player and coach the pitch and in the team’s daily life.

5 0 33 27 3 12
0 0 0 1 0 1
Ivica IVUSIC Nediljko LABROVIC Dominik LIVAKOVIC Borna BARISIC Martin ERLIC Josko GVARDIOL
Osijek Rijeka Dinamo Zagreb Rangers (Sco) Sassuolo (Ita) RB Leipzig (Ger)
GOALKEEPERS
DEFENDERS
Consistent performances Rijeka’s young goalie Until recently Croatia’s An offensive left-back Centre-back given his The great hope of Croatian
for his club have seen earned the position of undisputed No.1. His whose strengths lie in chance after impressing on football, signed from Dinamo
Ivusic challenge Dominik third-choice keeper with qualities are well known: contributing to attacks. loan at Spezia last season, for €16m. Plays left-back
Livakovic for a starting excellent saves for his safe hands, and excellent Barisic is a very direct before appearing to secure for Leipzig but centrally
spot. Impressed in club. Faces a battle with reflexes and reactions; player, capable of his spot in Qatar with some for Croatia. Reads the
Croatia’s Nations League veteran Lovre Kalinic for not so good with the producing excellent impressive displays in game well, fast and
victory over France. his spot in the squad. ball at his feet. crosses with his left foot. the Nations League. aggressive in duels.
21 71 8 6 3 99
0 5 1 0 0 4
Josip JURANOVIC Dejan LOVREN Borna SOSA Josip STANISIC Josip SUTALO Domagoj VIDA
Celtic (Sco) Zenit (Rus) Stuttgart (Ger) Bayern Munich (Ger) Dinamo Zagreb AEK Athens (Gre)
Croatia’s first-choice Like Domagoj Vida, his An impressive couple After he kept Kylian Croatia’s new outstanding Another member of the
right-back, stepping in place in the team is no of seasons with Stuttgart Mbappe quiet in June, Dalic stopper, who impressed in class of 2018. No longer
after Sime Vrsaljko’s injury longer certain, with the have seen him linked with declared Stanisic will be a the UEFA Nations League. a guaranteed starter and
troubles and subsequent two veterans replaced by the likes of Barcelona and fixture in Croatia’s defence Excellent in the air and has lost a yard of pace,
international retirement. young arrivals. A regular in Manchester City. Has for the next ten years. A solid in one-v-ones, set to but remains a committed,
A quick, solid defender Zenit’s defence, he still has replaced Barisic as the lack of minutes at Bayern play alongside Gvardiol courageous defender and
with an accurate cross. plenty to offer in Qatar. first-choice left-back. means he may not start. in Qatar and beyond. an excellent distributor.
76 4 83 10 154 42
7 0 3 3 23 7
Marcelo BROZOVIC Kristijan JAKIC Mateo KOVACIC Lovro MAJER Luka MODRIC Mario PASALIC
Internazionale (Ita) Eintracht Frankfurt (Ger) Chelsea (Eng) Rennes (Fra) Real Madrid (Spa) Atalanta (Ita)
MIDFIELDERS
One of the team’s few Physically strong, Talented midfielder who Excelled since joining Croatia’s greatest player Born in Germany but
undroppable players. An tough-tackling defensive is close to hitting his peak. Rennes, demonstrating of all time and still the returned to Split as a boy.
outstanding distributor of midfielder. Covers a lot of Very creative, although the level of talent that has team’s most important A dangerous offensive
the ball, he is a tireless ground and is destined doesn’t get as many goals seen him proclaimed as player. The coach on midfielder, he played for
runner and an excellent to eventually replace and assists as he should. the successor to Modric. the field, director of the five different clubs on
shooter. Complements Brozovic as anchorman. One of five players to start Notched a goal and an assist game, and the country’s loan from Chelsea before
Modric perfectly. Trusted by coach Dalic. every game at Euro 2020. in September’s matches. record caps holder. settling at Atalanta.
3 41 33 15 73 14
0 7 4 1 19 3
Luka SUCIC Nikola VLASIC Josip BREKALO Ante BUDIMIR Andrej KRAMARIC Marko LIVAJA
Red Bull Salzburg (Aut) Torino (Ita) Wolfsburg (Ger) Osasuna (Spa) Hoffenheim (Ger) Hajduk Split
FORWARDS
Born in Austria to Offensive midfielder and Impressed on loan at Combines being a classic Refined sense for a goal, A former prodigy, signed
Bosnian-Croat parents, powerful dribbler with an Torino, but chose not centre-forward (tall and the former Leicester City by Internazionale as a
but Dalic quickly set out to eye for goal. Struggled at to stay under coach strong in the air) with man is a true poacher. He teenager, who has enjoyed
secure him for Croatia. A West Ham, but has made Ivan Juric. Winger, or defensive discipline, only needs a tiny pocket a real renaissance since
very good dribbler and a positive start on loan at wing-back if necessary, drawing comparisons with of space to shoot, making returning to Croatia last
technician with lots of Torino, with three goals excellent technician and Mario Mandzukic. Made him a particularly effective year. Scored 28 goals
goalscoring menace. in his first eight games. capable of scoring goals. his Croatia debut aged 29. option off the bench. for Hadjuk last season.
20 115
1 32
ALSO IN CONTENTION
GOALKEEPERS Ivo GRBIC (Atletico Madrid, Spa), Lovre KALINIC (Hajduk Split),
Simon SLUGA (Ludogorets, Bul)
Mislav ORSIC Ivan PERISIC DEFENDERS Duje CALETA-CAR (Southampton, Eng), Marin PONGRACIC (Lecce, Ita),
Dinamo Zagreb Tottenham Hotspur (Eng) Mile SKORIC (Osijek), Filip UREMOVIC (Hertha Berlin, Ger)
Age 29 (29.12.92) Age 33 (02.02.89)
Right-footed winger Only needs two goals to MIDFIELDERS Luka IVANUSEC (Dinamo Zagreb), Nikola MORO (Bologna, Ita)
who likes cutting in from go second in Croatia’s all-
the left. A key man for time top scorers list. The FORWARDS Antonio COLAK (Rangers, Sco), Petar MUSA (Benfica, Por),
Dinamo, impressing in the most experienced forward Bruno PETKOVIC (Dinamo Zagreb)
Champions League, but in the squad. Fast, direct,
still waiting to make an defensively responsible and
impact for Croatia. effective on either wing.

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> DENMARK
In it to win it
The Euro 2020 semi-finalists arrive in Qatar
full of confidence after an impressive year
he question with Denmark
T at major international
tournaments is usually
whether to include them
among the “dark horses” who might
spring a surprise or two. You couldn’t
Semi-finalists...
Denmark reached
the last four at
Euro 2020
even call them “hopefuls” ahead of

their triumph at the 1992 European
Championship – because they didn’t
even qualify and were only emergency
last-minute replacements.
This time it’s different. Any rational
assessment for this World Cup must
rank Denmark “among the favourites”.
The Danes reached the semi-finals
of Euro 2020 last summer, and during
their current Nations League campaign
have won away to reigning world
champions France. Their form has for the World Cup in record-breaking
been simply too strong to disregard. fashion with nine straight wins. They
If you think that puts more pressure are an even better team with the
on the Danish team of Christian Eriksen reintroduction of his creative genius.
and Kasper Schmeichel, too heavy a The group-stage draw has been
burden of expectation, well think again. relatively kind, and they should
First of all, Denmark is a small country progress from a section involving
of over five million people. They never France, Tunisia and Australia. It
travel with the historic baggage of would be something of a surprise
nations like England, Germany and if they didn’t.
Spain. Success is always a bonus, How far they might go beyond
even when they know they have that will depend on the vagaries
a fine national side. of tournament football – injuries,
Secondly, when a team has suspensions, the form of key players
experienced the horror of its star and the way the draw pans out. What you
player coming close to death on a can be sure of, though, is that Denmark
football pitch, they understand that will not lack the basic requirements of
a strong team
ethic, an
Any rational assessment for this World unbreakable
Cup must rank Denmark “among the collective spirit,
favourites”...their form has been and intelligent,
panic-free
simply too strong to disregard leadership.
Jim Holden
pressure is far from the correct word
to use about the possibility of winning
a football event. The memory of what KASPER HJULMAND answers to keep progressing. When you reach
a semi-final, you want to be there again.
happened to Eriksen last year may
inspire and motivate the Danes, but it What are your reflections on Euro 2020 How have you developed since the Euros?
will also keep sport in its proper context. when Denmark reached the last four? We showed that we are tactically flexible.
A lot of things happened in 2021, not just We are comfortable switching during a
There is already immense joy merely
the Euros. We played 18 matches, we gained match, but also from one match to another.
in the prospect of seeing Eriksen stride the respect and the love of our nation, we We have a core of players developing very
out alongside his team-mates for the progressed the way we play, we enjoyed a well, but we need more players at bigger
first match against Tunisia. His return very good World Cup qualification and the clubs playing in the Champions League every
to the elite game after recovery from Euros were a roller coaster. We stood together week. That is important for our young
and showed the character of the team. players and for the national team.
the trauma of cardiac arrest has been
Football-wise, we took steps in developing
one of the most incredible football the style of play, the flexibility and the How special is it to have Christian Eriksen
stories of our time. tactics. Unfortunately, we didn’t manage back after his cardiac arrest at the Euros?
Denmark played well and prospered the last step, but it gave us enough It is very special. It’s kind of a miracle that he
when Eriksen was sidelined, qualifying

Among the favourites...
Denmark beat France
twice in the 2022-23
UEFA Nations League
is still alive, and that’s the most important lot of Tunisia’s matches, and playing them What are your dreams for Qatar?
thing. The fact that he is actually playing in the afternoon in the heat will be a big test We dream of winning something. That
football again is a gift for us all. In his for us. They have a strong team spirit and will is always the way we have worked. We
comeback he showed that he is simply a get a lot of support. Australia we met at the In shock...Danish know we are not the biggest favourites.
phenomenal football player. The second he last World Cup – I wasn’t the coach, but it players react after We are not in that bracket of teams
stepped into the national team again things was a very tight game. They gave us a lot to Eriksen collapsed that you expect to have a possibility
immediately changed. I said this before it think about. They play with energy and pride. on the pitch of winning, but that is our dream. It
happened, but he is the heartbeat of the France are one of the favourites – is difficult; everything has to
team. I am very happy to see him back on the with all the talent they have they work in our favour – we need
pitch. Just being able to work with him is a could field three teams at the players who are fit and focused,
privilege and a pleasure. Since his comeback, World Cup. It is a very strong and we have to be lucky. First of
he has shown how important he is for us. group, but we are strong as well all, we must progress from the
and believe in ourselves. The three group and then it’s knockout.
What are your thoughts on your Group D games will be very interesting, But our dream is winning
opponents France, Australia and Tunisia? difficult and different. I have – that’s why we do this.
It is a very competitive group. I have seen a great respect for all the teams. Samindra Kunti

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> DENMARK
TACTICS SCHEDULE
PRE-WORLD CUP
Flexible, intelligent and mature Sep 22
1-2 v Croatia
(Zagreb)
Sep 25
enmark have evolved into 2-0 v France
D a hugely mature tactical

team in the past two years
under head coach Kasper
Hjulmand, much more willing to play
on the front foot, and to switch systems
(Copenhagen)
during matches when necessary. They

occasionally still start with a basic 4-3-3 Rematch...Denmark
formation, but even against the strongest drew1-1 with
Australia in 2018
nations you are more likely to see a
system with three central defenders GROUP GAMES
augmented by authentic wing-backs Nov 22
like Joakim Maehle. Even then, there v Tunisia
(Al Rayyan)
is flexibility, switching between 3-4-1-2
Nov 26
and 3-4-2-1 depending on opponents, v France
circumstances and player availability. (Doha)
One advantage of these variations Nov 30
is that it allows greater freedom to v Australia
(Al Wakrah)
Christian Eriksen, making it harder for
the opposition to predict where and how
he will operate in the Danish side. There
is intelligent use of pressing, but a strong
defence remains the key to everything
Denmark do. They have the ability to
break swiftly and efficiently in transition,
Maehle
the wing-backs fundamental to this
approach – just as they were back in Creative freedom... Christensen
the old days of Danish Dynamite and Christian Eriksen
Eriksen
the shock triumph at Euro 1992.
Delaney
Schmeichel Kjaer Dolberg
Hojbjerg
Skov Olsen
Andersen
Kristensen
Attacking
wing-back...
Joakim Maehle
THE VIEW FROM DENMARK COACH

“It’s fantastic for the football world to see Kasper HJULMAND
Impressive
Christian Eriksen back with the national ...Kasper Age 50 (09.04.72)
team. He is a great talent and makes a Hjulmand Appointed August 2020
difference to any side he plays for. His
presence will help to make Denmark Made his name winning the Danish
strong challengers in Qatar.” Superliga title in 2012 for provincial
Frank Arnesen, former Danish club Nordsjaelland and has now been
international and sporting in charge of Denmark for two years,
director of Feyenoord leading them to the semi-finals of the
European Championship in the summer
“The thing about this tournament is that of 2021. His 67 per cent win ratio (22
there isn’t too much difference between victories in 33 matches) are the statistics
the top teams. Denmark are one of those of an elite manager, but his calm nature,
sides and it means we should dream big inclusive style and flexible tactics are just
– that we can win. I think it’s possible, as impressive. The exemplary leadership
but of course it will be very difficult.” he showed during the Christian Eriksen
Preben Elkjaer, former Danish trauma has forged a unique bond with
international and TV pundit the players of the Danish squad.

0 8 86 19 4 58
0 0 0 0 1 2
Daniel IVERSEN Frederik RONNOW Kasper SCHMEICHEL Joachim ANDERSEN Alexander BAH Andreas CHRISTENSEN
Leicester City (Eng) Union Berlin (Ger) Nice (Fra) Crystal Palace (Eng) Benfica (Por) Barcelona (Spa)
GOALKEEPERS
DEFENDERS
Player of the Year on Started the season in A surprise summer First choice for Denmark Elegant right-back is Elegant, ball-playing
loan at Preston North fine form as Union’s first move away from Leicester now after maturing into maturing fast and has defender at the heart of
End and pushing for a choice but will be Danish City to the French league a classy defensive made a dynamic start to the defence who made
first-team spot in the reserve as in the last two will not change his status presence at Palace the season at new club a summer transfer from
Premier League. Faces tournaments. The Horsens as Denmark’s No.1. Vice- under coach Patrick Benfica. Likely to pip the Chelsea to Camp Nou
tough competition for academy graduate is now in captain and one of the Vieira. An exquisite more experienced Nicolai after six seasons in the
the third keeper spot. his fifth season in Germany. team’s leaders. diagonal long passer. Boilesen in the squad. Premier League.
121 10 31 7 49 35
5 0 9 0 3 2
Simon KJAER Rasmus KRISTENSEN Joakim MAEHLE Victor NELSSON Jens STRYGER LARSEN Jannik VESTERGAARD
Milan (Ita) Leeds United (Eng) Atalanta (Ita) Galatasaray (Tur) Trabzonspor (Tur) Leicester City (Eng)
Welcome return to the Known as “NK” or Superb wing-back who An excellent initial season Reliable, fast-raiding Giant defender with
Milan team in August after “Nissen” (his middle can play on either flank at Galatasaray saw him wing-back and a regular tons of Premier League
272 days out with an ACL name), Kristensen is and also score crucial jump into the Denmark for five years at Udinese experience who has been
injury which threatened an imposing right-back goals. A vital figure in the reckoning ahead of other before his recent move an able deputy while Kjaer
his World Cup place. or wing-back whose team with his buccaneering centre-back rivals. A good to Turkish champions was sidelined. His playing
The veteran captain versatility makes him runs. Denmark’s joint-top reserve should injuries Trabzonspor. Comfortable time has been somewhat
is Denmark’s rock. an ideal squad member. scorer in qualifying. or suspensions occur. playing on either flank. restriced at Leicester.
18 71 117 0 60 20
4 7 39 0 5 1
Mikkel DAMSGAARD Thomas DELANEY Christian ERIKSEN Morten HJULMAND Pierre-Emile HOJBJERG Mathias JENSEN
Brentford (Eng) Sevilla (Spa) Manchester United (Eng) Lecce (Ita) Tottenham Hotspur (Eng) Brentford (Eng)
MIDFIELDERS
Who can forget his Crafty, experienced Outstanding talent matched The uncapped defensive Hard-tackling, hard- One of many products of
memorable free-kick in presence alongside by outstanding character midfielder, no relation to running midfielder whose the Nordsjaelland academy,
the Euro 2020 semi- Hojbjerg, perhaps fading shown on his return to the coach, helped Lecce energy and intelligence a midfielder with crisp
final against England? a little from his heyday football. Denmark’s return to Serie A and was allows space for others passing skills but still to
Injury ruined last with Borussia Dortmund enduring talisman. a transfer target for Inter. to flourish. Has been a fully impose himself for
season, but should be but still likely first choice Impressive start to his Battling with Norgaard and central figure for Spurs his country. Has enjoyed
rejuvenated at Brentford. in the middle of the park. career at Old Trafford. Billing for a midfield berth. since joining in 2020. a fine start to the season.
6 44 62 41 37 68
1 1 10 9 11 11
Jesper LINDSTROM Daniel WASS Martin BRAITHWAITE Andreas CORNELIUS Kasper DOLBERG Yussuf POULSEN
Eintracht Frankfurt (Ger) Brondby Espanyol (Spa) FC Copenhagen Sevilla (Spa) RB Leipzig (Ger)
FORWARDS
A skilful attacking Back in the Danish Overcome a bad knee Giant, powerful centre- Three goals at Euro 2020 A long-term hero of
midfielder who played Superliga after 11 years injury and a torrid end forward who returned to showed his potential but Leipzig’s rise in Germany,
a vital part in winning last abroad in France and to his spell at Barcelona the Danish Superliga on can flatter to deceive. Won a striker of strength, spirit,
season’s Europa League. Spain. His experience to get himself back in transfer deadline day after Ajax’s Talent of the Year energy and goals. Scored
Voted the Bundesliga and versatility to play the picture. Likely vying helping Trabzonspor win (2017) and Nice’s Player of two goals at Euro 2020,
Rookie of the Season in midfield or full-back with Rasmus Hjolund and the Turkish league the Year (2019-20), but including in the emotional
the 2021-22 campaign. keeps him in the squad. Robert Skov for a spot. title last season. still to settle at club level. 4-1 victory over Russia.
23 15
8 5
ALSO IN CONTENTION
GOALKEEPERS Oliver CHRISTENSEN (Hertha Berlin, Ger), Jonas LOSSL (Midtjylland),

Peter VINDAHL JENSEN (AZ, Ned)
Andreas SKOV OLSEN Jonas WIND DEFENDERS Mads BECH SORENSEN (Nice, Fra), Nicolai BOILESEN (FC Copenhagen), Mathias JORGENSEN
Club Brugge (Bel) Wolfsburg (Ger) (Brentford, Eng), Andreas MAXSO (Brondby), Mads VALENTIN PEDERSEN (Augsburg, Ger)
Age 22 (29.12.99) Age 23 (07.02.99)
Lively goalscoring winger Tall, skilful and sharp in the MIDFIELDERS Philip BILLING (Bournemouth, Eng), Anders CHRISTIANSEN (Malmo, Swe), Anders
who has flourished in box, the best of the young DREYER (Midtjylland), Casper NIELSEN (Club Brugge, Bel), Christian NORGAARD (Brentford, Eng)
Belgium and fast become Danish strikers starred at
a first-choice pick for the FC Copenhagen before FORWARDS Jacob BRUUN LARSEN (Hoffenheim, Ger), Mohamed DARAMY (FC Copenhagen),
national team. Denmark’s moving to the Bundesliga Rasmus HJOLUND (Atalanta, Ita), Robert SKOV (Hoffenheim, Ger)
joint-top goalscorer in where he has immediately
qualifying with Maehle. looked the part.

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> ECUADOR
On the up
One of the least experienced squads in Qatar
will be hoping to spring some surprises
t the World Cup draw back
A in April, Brazil coach Tite was

telling anyone who wanted
to listen that he thought
Ecuador could be the surprise side of the
tournament. But when the qualification
Next generation
...Gonzalo Plata
starred for the
Under-20 side
campaign got underway, the idea of

Ecuador making it to Qatar would
have been a major surprise in itself.
The previous few years could hardly
have been worse. On the road to Russia
2018, Ecuador took all 12 points from
their first four matches, but just eight
from the remaining 14 qualifiers. The
team collapsed amid the local FA’s
internal problems. There was a recall
for Colombia’s Hernan Dario Gomez, behind him, in the goalkeeping position,
who took the team to its World Cup and also at centre-forward. But in
debut in 2002, but he did not survive between Ecuador have a side which is
an awful 2019 Copa America. Jordi quick, strong and tough to play against.
Cruyff was the high-profile replacement, One cause for concern is that although
but in the midst of the pandemic he Ecuador have kept five consecutive
jumped ship before taking charge of clean sheets in the World Cup warm-
a single game. With barely a month to up friendlies, the goals have dried up.
go before the start of the qualifiers, the It is a young group – there are just
relatively low-profile Argentine Gustavo three remnants of the 2014 World Cup
Alfaro was rushed in to coach the side squad (top goalscorer Enner Valencia,
– and he has proved a wonderful fit. anchorman Carlos Gruezo and keeper
At his best with reactive sides, Alexander Dominguez) – and it will be
Alfaro adapted well to Ecuador’s interesting to see how they cope with the
counter-attacking characteristics, pressures of kicking off the competition
and his willingness to throw in youth against hosts Qatar. Alfaro is relishing
has taken advantage of one of the the prospect of the eyes of the entire
country’s contemporary strengths. planet falling on his team, and has in
his sights the
aim of registering
Alfaro’s willingness to throw in youth the best World
has taken advantage of one of the Cup in Ecuador’s
country’s contemporary strengths history, which
– Ecuador were South American would mean
a place in the
Under-20 champions in 2019 quarter-finals.
Tim Vickery
Ecuador were South American
Under-20 champions in 2019, and
the Independiente del Valle club has led GUSTAVO ALFARO FIFA moved the opening game a day
earlier. How do you feel about that?
the way in excellent youth development, We were not consulted about Ecuador’s
supplying players that Alfaro has trusted Ecuador were in trouble before your match being moved a day earlier for the
with admirable boldness – mixed with arrival. How did you turn it around? opening match. I believe this is a decision
There had been the resignation of Jordi FIFA took considering the right of the host
his characteristic caution.
Cruyff and the departure of Antonio Cordoba country to be part of the opening game. This
He maintained all along that clean as a technical secretary in the midst of the is a fair and correct decision. I have been
sheets would take Ecuador to Qatar pandemic. There was uncertainty. When I part of the last four opening ceremonies
and, after using the 2021 Copa America arrived, I noticed that some players had lost in Germany, South Africa, Brazil and Russia.
as something of a laboratory, the key interest in being part of the team – what it These are unique moments because the
means to represent a country. So I had not eyes of the world are fixed on it with all the
introduction of strapping centre-back
just to look for a team in 30 days but also to passion, joy and expectation. The party and
Felix Torres following the tournament first recover the sense of belonging, to find the colours in the opening game are unique.
in Brazil was pivotal to a tightening up a team that identifies with something that It’s a privilege for Ecuador. We’ve got a
of the defence that took the team safely is bigger. We had to rebuild from scratch. chance to be a part of this major event.
over the line. There are question marks

On the up...Ecuador
celebrate a goal
against Peru in
WC qualifying
Is it correct to describe Ecuador What is Ecuador’s ambition in Qatar? Can South America win the World Cup
as a counter-attacking team? We have three matches and nothing else but again after Brazil last won it in 2002?
If I have to define Ecuador, I will define it as those three games. We will try to be among I believe South America will arrive at this
a team that plays modern football. I told the the top two teams in the group to earn the Impact...Alfaro has World Cup with a strong possibility of
players that I did not want to change the way right to play a fourth game. If that happens, guided Ecuador to winning it. Brazil and Argentina are well
they played or the way Ecuadorian football another type of World Cup kicks off, with their first World consolidated and play with clear ideas.
is played, but I did tell them that if we kept a very different approach. I am confident Cup since 2014 Uruguay have a very strong midfield, one
doing the same thing the results were going in my players, but our expectations of the best in the world. The
to be the same. We interpret today’s football in this very young team – the Europeans will face two tough
with compact lines and play in blocks with youngest Ecuadorian team to South American opponents
speed as well as depth. We need to manage qualify for a World Cup – are in Brazil and Argentina who
both the defensive and offensive transitions, to have a good tournament. This mix European preparation
and whenever we lose the ball we need to team can identify with the feeling with South American talent,
have the capacity to regroup and restart the of the entire country. We are proud. a combination the Europeans
attack with speed to create opportunities. We Quality, experience and history are are not prepared for.
plan the game based on modern-day tactics. to be respected but not feared. Samindra Kunti

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> ECUADOR
TACTICS SCHEDULE
PRE-WORLD CUP
Speedy transitions Sep 23
0-0 v Saudi Arabia
(Murcia)
Sep 27
cuador are good at transitions, 0-0 v Japan
E but that does not necessarily

mean they sit deep to create
space for the counter. Alfaro’s
team is both strong and fast, and the
coach remarked with pride that the pace
(Dusseldorf)
of the team meant they were defending

higher even than Brazil. This obviously Goalless...Ecuador
keeps midfielder Moises Caicedo fresher didn’t score in their
two warm-up games
to run forward – and the same applies to
rampaging left-back Pervis Estupinan, a GROUP GAMES
key attacking weapon, who has a corridor Nov 20
in front of him because Enner Valencia v Qatar
(Al Khor)
will look to cut inside into the penalty box.
Nov 25
If the opposition are dragged v Netherlands
rightwards to cope with this trio, space (Al Rayyan)
opens up on Ecuador’s other flank for Nov 29
either the subtle scheming of Angel v Senegal
(Al Rayyan)
Mena, or the direct bursts of Gonzalo
Plata. Both featured throughout the
qualifiers, but they only started together
twice. This is an important selection
decision for Alfaro, with Mena more
likely to start, leaving Plata to be
unleashed against tiring defenders.
Estupinan
Jeremy Sarmiento is also an option.
A possible tactical variation is the switch Rampaging runs... Valencia
to a back three. It was used three times Moises Caicedo
M. Caicedo
in qualification and was not a conspicuous
failure, but has not been seen since an Hincapie
away defeat to Venezuela last October.
Dominguez Gruezo Estrada
Torres
Franco
Mena
An. Preciado
Subtle schemer
...Angel Mena
THE VIEW FROM ECUADOR COACH

“We must be honest. At the start, 99.9 per Gustavo ALFARO (Arg)
cent of Ecuadorians didn’t think that we Age 60 (14.08.62)
would qualify. The campaign has been Appointed August 2020
extraordinary, especially bearing in mind
all the instability in the FA. This group Had a brief playing career with Atletico
deserve success, and they have more Rafaela, his hometown club, with whom
capacity than our generation to achieve it.” he started coaching in 1992. Apart from
Carlos Tenorio, two-goal scoring a few months in Saudi Arabia, his entire
centre-forward at World Cup 2006 career had been in Argentina until the
call came from Ecuador. Has done his
“This team is filling me with hope, it’s best work with smaller sides, struggling
inviting me to dream. I’m seeing a team when put in charge of San Lorenzo in
of winners. In the World Cup the second 2005 and Boca Juniors 14 years later –
round is the minimum that we should his last job before Ecuador. Nicknamed
be aiming for.” “Lettuce” because of his wavy hair as a
Ivan Kaviedes, scorer of the goal child. Now, though, he cuts a sober figure,
in qualifying that took Ecuador to “Lettuce”... dressed smartly and so in control that he
Gustavo Alfaro
their World Cup debut in 2002 rarely celebrates when his team scores.

67 12 2 32 17 12
0 0 0 2 1 0
Alexander DOMINGUEZ Hernan GALINDEZ Moises RAMIREZ Robert ARBOLEDA Xavier ARREAGA Byron CASTILLO
LDU Aucas Independiente del Valle Sao Paulo (Bra) Seattle Sounders (USA) Leon (Mex)
GOALKEEPERS
DEFENDERS
Giant, gangling figure, Naturalised Argentine, Under-20 keeper from the Athletic centre-back Versatile defender, a Rapid right-back at the
a 2014 veteran who can from Rosario, who says 2019 team, full of agility who lost his place to the centre-back who can also centre of controversy
be inconsistent. Was the first goal he ever and talent but hampered Torres-Hincapie duo and cover the full-back positions following Chile’s claims
discarded last year, but conceded was scored so far in the senior side then suffered an ankle who, after a successful spell that he was born in
fought his way back and by Lionel Messi. Strong by questionable decision injury. Alfaro says he with Barcelona SC, is now Colombia. Made his
kept clean sheets in four personality, ended the making. Battling with Pedro will wait for him as a regular starter for the name with Barcelona
WC warm-up friendlies. qualifiers as first choice. Ortiz for a squad place. long as possible. CONCACAF champions. SC of Guayaquil.
28 21 11 5 25 16
3 1 0 0 0 2
Pervis ESTUPINAN Piero HINCAPIE Diego PALACIOS Jackson POROZO Angelo PRECIADO Felix TORRES
Brighton (Eng) Bayer Leverkusen (Ger) LAFC (USA) Troyes (Fra) Genk (Bel) Santos Laguna (Mex)
Physically imposing Left-footed centre-back, Classy left-back promoted Giant centre-back whose Quick little right-back who Centre-back who is
left-back who is an adept at bringing the ball from the 2019 Under-20 European experience is came through the ranks at quick on the ground and
important part of the out, whose extended run side. Spent a season helping establish himself as Independiente del Valle commanding in the air
team with his strong started with last year’s with Willem II in the the first defensive reserve. before heading to Belgium. in both penalty areas.
attacking bursts and his Copa America. Another Netherlands, and is a solid Moved to France this Started every game at the His introduction after
dangerous left foot. Only Independiente del MLS performer. Very much season after a successful 2021 Copa America and last year’s Copa America
missed one qualifier. Valle graduate. reserve to Estupinan. spell with Boavista. likely first choice. was a pivotal moment.
3 25 10 24 45 45
0 2 0 1 1 7
Nilson ANGULO Moises CAICEDO Jose CIFUENTES Alan FRANCO Carlos GRUEZO Angel MENA
Anderlecht (Bel) Brighton (Eng) LAFC (USA) Talleres (Arg) Augsburg (Ger) Leon (Mex)
MIDFIELDERS
Tall attacking midfielder, The beating, box-to- Barrel-chested central Mobile and versatile Defensive midfielder who Diminutive left-footed
often used wide, who box heart of the side. midfielder with a rocket all-round midfielder. Yet was probably too raw when playmaker rated by Gustavo
could sneak into the Thrown in bravely as shot who was a key another Independiente del thrown in at the deep end Alfaro as one of the most
squad. Recently an Independiente del member of the 2019 Valle graduate currently on in Brazil 2014, but has since intelligent players he has
moved to Belgium Valle teenager when Under-20 team. loan in Argentina after spells matured into an efficient ever coached. A late
after making his name the qualifiers began and Yet to consolidate in Brazil (Atletico Mineiro) anchorman with crisp developer based in
with LDU of Quito. looked instantly at home. himself in the seniors. and the USA (Charlotte FC). tackling and distribution. Mexico since 2016.
31 29 9 10 36 24
0 5 0 2 8 3
Jhegson MENDEZ Gonzalo PLATA Jeremy SARMIENTO Jordy CAICEDO Michael ESTRADA Romario IBARRA
LAFC (USA) Real Valladolid (Spa) Brighton (Eng) Tigres UANL (Mex) Cruz Azul (Mex) Pachuca (Mex)
FORWARDS
Strong, sticky defensive Fearsomely strong Born in Spain and played Burly centre-forward Rangy, tall and quick Another of Ecuador’s
midfielder who will left-footed winger who for England at youth level who recently moved to centre-forward who was many strong wide players,
probably be Gruezo’s cuts in from the right but snapped up smartly Mexico after a spell in Ecuador’s top scorer in who mainly plays on the
reserve. Has been in flank. Chosen as the third by the land of his parents’ Brazil and a successful qualification with six goals. left. His more slender older
MLS since 2019 after best player of the 2019 birth. Played in World Cup time in Bulgaria with Recently moved back to brother Renato is also an
making his name with Under-20 World Cup. qualification before his CSKA Sofia. A likely Mexico after a brief spell international winger who
Independiente del Valle. Effective impact sub. Premier League debut. substitute. in Major League Soccer. featured in qualifying.
27 74
3 35
ALSO IN CONTENTION
GOALKEEPERS Pedro ORTIZ (Emelec), Gonzalo VALLE (Guayaquil City)
DEFENDERS Jose HURTADO (Red Bull Bragantino, Bra), Luis Fernando

Ayrton PRECIADO Enner VALENCIA LEON (Atletico San Luis, Mex), William PACHO (Antwerp, Bel)
Santos Laguna (Mex) Fenerbahce (Tur)
Age 28 (17.07.94) Age 33 (04.11.89) MIDFIELDERS Alexander ALVARADO (LDU), Dixon ARROYO (Emelec), Michael CARCELEN
Winger with pace and Began as a wing-back, (Barcelona SC), Patrickson DELGADO (Jong Ajax, Ned), Joao ROJAS (Monterrey, Mex) – injured,
physical presence who his conversion to a forward Junior SORNOZA (Independiente del Valle), Anthony VALENCIA (Antwerp, Bel)
suffered a serious injury has been so successful he
in February, but should is now Ecuador’s all-time FORWARDS Bryan ANGULO (Santos, Bra), Leonardo CAMPANA (Inter Miami, USA),
be back in time for Qatar. top goalscorer, getting all Djorkaeff REASCO (Newell’s Old Boys, Arg)
Ecuador’s top scorer at three of his side’s goals
last year’s Copa America. at the 2014 World Cup.

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> ENGLAND
Favourites fading
England’s hopes of silverware have faded during
a difficult 2022 – but don’t rule them out yet
emi-finalists in the 2018 World
S Cup and runners-up at last

year’s European Championship,
England should be going to
Qatar full of confidence, prepared to
take the final step to silverware. Yet
Tough year...
England’s form
has taken a
dip in 2022
the road to this year’s finals has

been littered with struggles.
Six games without a win, five without
a goal from open play, and a disastrous
Nations League campaign that ended
in relegation from the top league have
created the first serious low point of
Gareth Southgate’s six-year tenure.
But it’s not all bad. A quick glance
around the rest of the UEFA Nations
League shows that England are not
the only major European team to
have struggled their way through a a little faith in Southgate’s England,
debilitating schedule. Four games in although doubts still hang over the
June was a particularly unwelcome England boss in the minds of many fans.
prospect for players coming to the Yet there is good reason to keep faith
end of a long season, but spirits with Southgate’s approach. It is often
and energy levels will be higher said this is England’s best squad in the
for a major tournament. last 30 years, yet there is no world-class
A World Cup in Qatar should also centre-back at the level of John Terry
allow the squad to cocoon themselves or Rio Ferdinand, and no midfielders
from criticism, with fans not expected comparable with Steven Gerrard or
to travel in huge numbers. Frank Lampard, while Harry Kane is the
Moreover, England’s Group B only top-class striker – in the 1990s
opponents represent a drop in quality England arguably had five or six.
compared with the tests they have This is a very good generation
faced this year; one of the features of of English players, with plenty of
the Nations League is that top sides technical ability, potential and
no longer go into tournaments off depth in certain areas. But their best
chance of success remains
a well-oiled system and a
A disastrous Nations League controlled approach. Major
campaign has created the first tournaments are very rarely
serious low point of Gareth won by the most expansive
sides – a fact that Southgate
Southgate’s six-year tenure knows only too well.
Jamie Evans
the back of long unbeaten runs against
inferior opponents in qualifying. Games
against Wales and the United States will GARETH SOUTHGATE of what Harry and Raheem have delivered
for us compared with everybody else. I’m
be huge emotional tests for England really happy with the options we’ve got.
but, on paper at least, they will be How does this England squad We saw with Jack Grealish coming into the
favourites. compare with previous years? team, for example, that we have options and
I have to say that this group of players players who can really make a difference.
A 3-3 draw with Germany at
have been incredible. Their mentality, their
Wembley – England’s final match desire to play for England, to work every The team endured a barren run in 2022.
before the finals – provided a welcome day on the training pitch and to get better Are there enough goals in this squad?
boost. The Three Lions demonstrated is impressive. We are very fortunate to have We will keep working on getting the ball
an ability to create chances within a group that is as committed as they are. into the right areas. But in the end the
quality of play is crucial. There has been a
Southgate’s 3-4-3 formation, as their
You had a huge number of attacking lack of sharpness in those areas, but we’ve
long run without a goal from open play options at the Euros. How is that now? got to make sure we keep getting the balls
was finally brought to an end by Luke There is a perception of what we had and through the opposition and into the right
Shaw and Mason Mount. what we have, and then there’s the reality areas. We have the players to score.
It was a result that helped restore

Key player...
captain Harry Kane
celebrates scoring
against Germany
Are you concerned about a current travel means they are going to get different is first and that gives us a great chance.
over-reliance on Harry Kane? experiences which will make them more
We have to spread that load. There are rounded human beings, and therefore better Will the players highlight political
players scoring regularly with their clubs and players. In the case of Jude Bellingham, Euros finalist... and social issues whilst in Qatar?
we need to convert that into international Dortmund’s model is to improve players, Southgate celebrates The players make a stand every time they
football. Our captain is a top player and his so that is clearly a good thing. beating Denmark in speak about Qatar. I’ve had discussions
goalscoring record is phenomenal, but every the Euro 2020 semis with workers there and The FA are doing
top team relies on their best players. France How have you created such things. I know Harry [Kane] has
have been dead and buried in matches and unity in the England camp? had conversations with some of
then Mbappe comes up with something. In We think it’s really important to the other captains, because we
the end, the quality of your top players has have a squad that has a great think collective standpoints will
a large factor in how successful you are. collective mentality. That’s going be important. They are trying to
to be huge in the World Cup. This do something that will make a
How impressed have you been with group is excellent at that. They difference; there’s a lot going
the players who’ve moved to Europe? support each other. They create on behind the scenes.
The fact that our players are prepared to an environment where the team Matt Read

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> ENGLAND
TACTICS SCHEDULE
PRE-WORLD CUP
Keeping the handbrake on Sep 23
0-1 v Italy
(Milan)
Sep 26
hen it comes to working 3-3 v Germany
W out England’s line-up in

Qatar, little has changed
since the start of 2022.
They will start with a 4-2-3-1 against
weaker opponents and a 3-4-3 in the
(Wembley)
tougher games. Harry Maguire, despite

his poor form and lack of games, retains Comeback...England
Southgate’s trust, as do Jordan Pickford, were 2-0 down
against Germany
John Stones, Kyle Walker, Harry Kane
and Raheem Sterling, all of who formed GROUP GAMES
the spine of the team in Russia in 2018. Nov 21
Luke Shaw appears to have re-secured v Iran
(Al Rayyan)
his spot at left wing-back after impressing
Nov 25
against Germany, while Mason Mount and v United States
Bukayo Saka made compelling cases for (Al Khor)
joining Sterling and Kane in attack, though Nov 29
we can expect plenty of front-line rotation v Wales
(Al Rayyan)
with Jack Grealish and especially the
in-form Phil Foden also in contention.
The biggest change this year has been
the emergence of Jude Bellingham from
promising youngster to certain starter.
Having overtaken Kalvin Phillips in the
pecking order, the Dortmund man could
Shaw
be one of the stars of the tournament.
Fan calls for Southgate to take the Breakout star... Maguire Sterling
handbrake off and throw all his best Jude Bellingham
attackers on ahead of Declan Rice will
not be heeded. The Germany match Bellingham
demonstrated that goals can be scored
via the 3-4-3 formation if played with Pickford Stones Kane
high energy and runs beyond Kane.
Rice
Walker Saka
James
Out of form...
Harry Maguire
THE VIEW FROM ENGLAND COACH

“England are in the top five or six teams Gareth SOUTHGATE
Under pressure
and have a chance of going far, but I ...Gareth Age 52 (03.09.70)
think they will fall short of winning. They Southgate Appointed September 2016
are weak at left-back and in midfield,
where Bellingham and Rice are fantastic For a man with such an impressive
but inexperienced. They also lack depth record at back-to-back tournaments
in attack; Kane is the key man and with England, Gareth Southgate remains
without his goals, England will struggle.” remarkably divisive. His critics claim he
Jamie Carragher, ex-England defender has been blessed with relatively easy
runs to the 2018 World Cup semi-final
“After six years of Southgate’s steady and Euro 2020 final, and that this
guidance, England go to Qatar on the exciting generation of English talent has
back of one of their worst-ever runs. But been stifled by his tactics. These are not
many big nations also struggled with the new doubts, but the stuttering form of
unusual build-up – it’s possible they need 2022 has given them volume. Southgate
the intensity of a World Cup to sharpen must find a way to lift the mood of the
them. Southgate has the pieces in place.” players and fans if he is to remain in
Miguel Delaney, The Independent post until his contract ends in 2024.

45 10 3 17 17 10
0 0 0 1 1 1
Jordan PICKFORD Nick POPE Aaron RAMSDALE Trent ALEXANDER-ARNOLD Ben CHILWELL Conor COADY
Everton Newcastle United Arsenal Liverpool Chelsea Everton
GOALKEEPERS
DEFENDERS
England’s undisputed Set to go to Qatar as A promising international Having failed to replicate Has slid down the pecking Like Chilwell, he didn’t
No.1 since the 2018 Pickford’s understudy, future awaits, although this his Liverpool form in an order at Chelsea following play at the Euros, but he
World Cup. His comfort despite some stuttering tournament will probably be England shirt, Trent may the arrival of Marc Cucurella, remains a highly-valued
with the ball at his feet displays in September. spent on the bench. Like miss out on the squad, and is likely to be second squad member for his
and impressive range A solid shot-stopper, Pickford, footballing ability particularly with so choice to Luke Shaw in presence in the camp.
of passing is highly but lacks Pickford and is seen as a key strength. many other top-quality Qatar as well. Didn’t play That could be enough to
valued by Southgate. Ramsdale’s distribution. Popular figure at Arsenal. options at right-back. a minute at Euro 2020. edge out Fikayo Tomori.
47 15 48 23 59 37
3 0 7 3 3 1
Eric DIER Reece JAMES Harry MAGUIRE Luke SHAW John STONES Kieran TRIPPIER
Tottenham Hotspur Chelsea Manchester United Manchester United Manchester City Newcastle United
Restored to the squad Appears to have edged Probably the most divisive Outstanding at Euro 2020, The most used player in According to Southgate,
after impressing in Antonio out Alexander-Arnold and player in the squad. While scoring England’s only goal qualifying and arguably his “all-round game is
Conte’s three-man defence Trippier as the first-choice supporters have long called in the final, yet has struggled England’s finest centre- ahead of Trent”. Another
at Spurs. Scored the decisive right wing-back. Can also for him to be dropped, to keep his place in United’s back. Calm and classy on of the manager’s trusted
penalty in the round-of-16 play as a right-sided centre- Southgate is loyal. A rethink first team. Likely to start in the ball. Scored twice at lieutenants, able to play
shootout win over Colombia back, but that nullifies his may be required if he stays Qatar after impressing Russia 2018, both goals on either flank, and an
at the 2018 World Cup. excellent attacking output. on the Old Trafford bench. against Germany. coming against Panama. excellent set-piece taker.
70 17 70 32 23 34
0 0 2 5 0 2
Kyle WALKER Jude BELLINGHAM Jordan HENDERSON Mason MOUNT Kalvin PHILLIPS Declan RICE
Manchester City Borussia Dortmund (Ger) Liverpool Chelsea Manchester City West Ham United
MIDFIELDERS
First choice on the right Supremely talented Valued as much for his Highly regarded by his A fitness doubt with a One of the first names on
side of a back three or back with a highly-promising experience on the pitch and managers for his tactical shoulder injury – at the last the team sheet. Young but
four, with his recovery pace future. His presence in in the changing room as his intelligence and work rate; international break he had quickly gaining experience,
integral to England’s shape. the XI ahead of Kalvin footballing ability. Debuted criticised by fans for a lack only played one league minute starting every match at
Ben White would be his Phillips makes England’s in 2010 and has featured in of flair. Scoring against for new club City. If he fails to Euro 2020 and captaining
most natural replacement midfield more expansive, five major international Germany was a welcome make it, James Ward-Prowse West Ham to last season’s
if ruled out by injury. but a little less solid. tournaments. riposte to his critics. is his likely midfield deputy. Europa League semi-finals.
11 18 24 75 46 20
3 2 1 51 12 4
Tammy ABRAHAM Phil FODEN Jack GREALISH Harry KANE Marcus RASHFORD Bukayo SAKA
Roma (Ita) Manchester City Manchester City Tottenham Hotspur Manchester United Arsenal
FORWARDS
Looks to have edged Still waiting to show his Has faced increasing Captain and talisman. His last kick of a ball in Versatile, creative, quick
out Ivan Toney, Dominic full potential in a Three scrutiny this season as he Only needs to score twice an England shirt was the and hard working, Saka is
Calvert-Lewin and Ollie Lions shirt, but his talent struggles to live up to his in Qatar to match Wayne missed penalty in the final a likely starter on the right
Watkins as Harry Kane’s is undeniable. Player of £100m price tag at City, Rooney’s all-time England of Euro 2020. A positive wing, especially with his club
understudy. Scored 27 the Tournament when but regularly injects flair goal record, as he chases start to the season under form and after impressing v
goals in all competitions England’s Under-17s won into England’s attack. Likely his second World Cup Erik ten Hag could be Germany. England’s Player
for Roma last season. the World Cup in 2017. to start on the bench. Golden Boot. enough for a recall. of the Year for 2021-22.
23 79
3 19
ALSO IN CONTENTION
GOALKEEPERS Dean HENDERSON (Nottingham Forest), Sam JOHNSTONE (Crystal Palace)
DEFENDERS Joe GOMEZ (Liverpool), Marc GUEHI (Crystal Palace), James JUSTIN (Leicester City),
Jadon SANCHO Raheem STERLING Tyrone MINGS (Aston Villa), Tyrick MITCHELL (Crystal Palace), Fikayo TOMORI (Milan, Ita),
Manchester United Chelsea Kyle WALKER-PETERS (Southampton), Ben WHITE (Arsenal)
Age 22 (25.03.00) Age 27 (08.12.94)
Has struggled to gain Questions over his place in MIDFIELDERS Harvey ELLIOTT (Liverpool), Conor GALLAGHER (Chelsea), James MADDISON
Southgate’s trust, but strong the team are now a thing (Leicester City), Emile SMITH ROWE (Arsenal) – injured, James WARD-PROWSE (Southampton)
form at club level could see of the past – after Kane,
him recalled. Jarrod Bowen he is England’s likeliest FORWARDS Harvey BARNES (Leicester City), Jarrod BOWEN (West Ham United),
is another option, while the source of goals, while his Dominic CALVERT-LEWIN (Everton), Anthony GORDON (Everton), Ivan TONEY
in-form James Maddison pace and movement are (Brentford), Ollie WATKINS (Aston Villa), Callum WILSON (Newcastle United)
is knocking on the door. key to stretching defences.

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> FRANCE
Same old France?

A team packed with talent could be
undermined by squad disharmony
atrice Evra’s public altercation
P with a fitness coach, the

players refusing to leave
the team bus and Raymond
Domench’s bizarre statement to the
press make the 2010 World Cup in
South Africa just as memorable in
France as some of Les Bleus’ triumphs,
as a fractious squad collapsed, limply
bowing out at the group stage in total
chaos. Since taking charge of the
French national team in July 2012,
coach Didier Deschamps has looked Strained
to avoid similar in-fighting by placing relations...
squad harmony above all else, but Paul Pogba
and Kylian
divisions may now be forming. Mbappe
Reports of an extortion attempt
on Paul Pogba by an organised gang,
which threw up allegations of a witch however, and France will remain
doctor “curse” on Kylian Mbappe, have a favourite for the title as emerging
recently gripped France. Regardless oftalent alleviates concerns over an
the story’s level of truth and Mbappe ageing spine. Partly successor to both
publicly accepting Pogba’s version of Pogba and midfield anchor N’Golo
Kante, Aurelien Tchouameni’s €80m
events – “I prefer to trust the word of
a team-mate” – relations between move to Real Madrid could soon prove
the squad’s two most prominent a bargain; there are few more exciting
personalities will surely be strained.left-backs in Europe than the rampaging
Pogba, meanwhile, faces a race Theo Hernandez; Christopher Nkunku
against time to actually make kept pace with the likes of Benzema
the tournament after having knee and Mbappe for goals and assists last
surgery but, given the furore and his season, while William Saliba and Jules
likely lack of readiness, his absence Kounde are potentially world-class
could well be a blessing in disguise. centre-backs. All started the season
just 24 years old or
Scandals and inflated egos have under and all are
potential difference
long troubled the French national markers in Qatar
team…[but] Deschamps still this winter.
boasts one of the tournament’s However,
Deschamps has
deepest squads and France will struggled to replace
remain a favourite for the title midfielder Blaise
Matuidi, a ruthlessly
The atmosphere remains tense efficient operator on both sides of
regardless, and Mbappe’s self- the ball and absolutely pivotal to his
importance has been growing, asymmetrical 2018 World Cup-winning DIDIER DESCHAMPS
particularly at his club Paris Saint- system. Adrien Rabiot isn’t a reliable
Germain. Scandals and inflated successor and the likely switch to a How do you view Kylian Mbappe’s
egos have long troubled the French 3-4-1-2 formation is as much designed decision to stay at Paris Saint-Germain?
national team – how star strikers to cover for Matuidi’s absence as it is to Obviously, Kylian remaining in Ligue 1 is
a good thing for French football and the
Karim Benzema and Mbappe, for fit the make-up and personnel of the stature of the league abroad. He’s attached
example, combine after Mbappe current squad. to his club, he made his arguments, but
dramatically rejected Real Madrid’s Les Bleus’ future is still undoubtedly this is only a very good thing for France.
advances last summer could become bright, but Deschamps is spending the
Can he grow while staying in France?
one of many troublesome subplots. present attempting to avoid repeating a
Yes. There are clear objectives, the same
Deschamps, it seems, is already fractious past. Whether Pogba recovers as his club’s – to win the Champions League.
firefighting. in time to make it or not, another We’re still talking about a young player here,
Deschamps still boasts one of implosion is more than possible. even though he’s done many, many things.
the tournament’s deepest squads, Adam White

Serial winners...the
World Cup holders
lifted the UEFA
Nations League in
October 2021
Maybe, one day, he’ll want to go abroad but, How will you manage players, like to a back four in recent matches?
although Ligue 1 is criticised, it’s not an easy Antoine Griezmann, who have been I haven’t changed my mind, they’re
league. Not going abroad doesn’t prevent struggling recently at their clubs? Feared strikeforce... just different options. The France team
him from accomplishing great things. All players have experienced similar Kylian Mbappe and doesn’t have a single system and we
situations. At every meet-up, some Karim Benzema change our system during matches too.
Do you fear misunderstandings players are in good form, others Not playing three at
between Karim Benzema and Kylian less so. Here, they’re in a different the back in two recent
Mbappe as a result of his choice? environment...it has happened on games doesn’t mean this
Everyone has their own interpretations… many occasions before that some system has been thrown
My priority is group unity. There may players are less efficient at club away. How will we play
be misunderstandings, we can all draw level but good with the France in the games to come?
conclusions but, in most situations, those team, as well as the reverse. We’ll see. It’s also good
don’t reflect reality. With the world so to be versatile, we’re
connected now, things can escalate very You’ve used three at the back less predictable for
quickly. With the smallest sentence or the for the past few months. Why our opponents.
smallest photo, we can get carried away. did you switch back and forth Adam White

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> FRANCE
TACTICS SCHEDULE
PRE-WORLD CUP
More expansive than 2018 Sep 22
2-0 v Austria
(Saint-Denis)
Sep 25
rance’s 2018 triumph was based 0-2 v Denmark
F on Deschamps’ characteristic
stoicism. Benjamin Pavard and
Lucas Hernandez, regular
centre-backs, started as full-backs,
providing a defensively astute and
(Copenhagen)
imposing platform. That structure was

asymmetrical, with the dynamic Matuidi Nations League...
shuffling across from the left side of a France v Denmark
lopsided 4-2-3-1, allowing Mbappe the GROUP GAMES
freedom to rampage as a drifting inside Nov 22
forward while Griezmann dropped off to v Australia
create behind focal point Olivier Giroud. (Al Wakrah)
However, Karim Benzema’s return has Nov 26
v Denmark
encouraged a more expansive approach. (Doha)
Despite switching between three and Nov 30
four-man defences, Deschamps’ likely v Tunisia
3-4-1-2 suits his squad nicely. It allows a (Al Rayyan)
central Benzema-Mbappe duo to flourish
and Griezmann to both lend creative
support and bolster the midfield. Without
the security of a peak Samuel Umtiti,
Raphael Varane is ably protected on both
sides while the wing-backs (despite right
wing-back being a problem position) offer
T. Hernandez
width as well as allowing Deschamps to
lean on characteristic caution if needed Key forward... Kimpembe
via a defensive line of five. Although he Benzema scores
remains pragmatic, France will be more against Spain in the
Nations League final Pogba Benzema
expansive but, after mixed recent results,
that may not be the right decision.
Lloris Varane Griezmann
Kante Mbappe
Kounde
Coman
Number ten...
Antoine Griezmann
THE VIEW FROM FRANCE COACH

“France are approaching this World Cup Didier DESCHAMPS
World Cup
with a lot of uncertainties. Les Bleus were winner... Age 54 (15.10.68)
poor in June, there’s the Pogba situation, Deschamps Appointed July 2012
Griezmann’s issue and injuries. But France
have so much talent at their disposal. No Despite triumph at Russia 2018 and
team has retained the World Cup since an impressive UEFA Nations League
Brazil in 1962 and the French, maybe win last year, many in France remain
against the odds, believe they can do it.” sniffy over Deschamps’ coaching. In
Julien Laurens, ESPN and RMC spite of a more positive approach
recently, Deschamps’ pragmatic style
“Undoubtedly France have the necessary – far removed from the Champagne
talent, but 2018’s winning chemistry feels football of Michel Platini or Raymond
irreversibly broken. This could be Didier Kopa’s eras – and a haughty media
Deschamps’ final major tournament as branding him as uncomplicated, means
coach as Zinedine Zidane waits in the respect for Deschamps’ success is only
wings, and there are big decisions to begrudging. More than a decade in
make over previously key personnel.” charge has led to questions over his
JonathanJohnson, CBS future, regardless of results in Qatar.

5 139 5 6 32 7
0 0 0 0 0 1
Alphonse AREOLA Hugo LLORIS Mike MAIGNAN Jonathan CLAUSS Lucas HERNANDEZ Theo HERNANDEZ
West Ham United (Eng) Tottenham Hotspur (Eng) Milan (Ita) Marseille Bayern Munich (Ger) Milan (Ita)
GOALKEEPERS
DEFENDERS
Despite an inconsistent A France legend but Commanding, assured and Creator-in-chief for Lens His use at left-back in 2018 A quick, powerful,
career, having moved to despite his prominence, a French champion with (with an astounding 11 epitomised Deschamps’ marauding left-back
London permanently this performances have been Lille, Maignan followed assists last season) before pragmatic approach – now with an eye for goal,
summer, the ex-PSG man middling for some time. that up with the Italian moving to Marseille last Bayern Munich’s starting Deschamps’ keenness
seems to have supplanted Possibly the long-serving Serie A crown with Milan summer. Inexperienced centre-back. Only started to deploy wing-backs
the experienced Steve national team captain’s last season. The natural but perfect for the three games in the World could make him a real
Mandanda in the squad. last tournament. successor to Lloris. right wing-back role. Cup qualifying campaign. standout star in Qatar.
28 12 9 46 7 87
0 0 0 2 0 5
Presnel KIMPEMBE Jules KOUNDE Ferland MENDY Benjamin PAVARD William SALIBA Raphael VARANE
Paris Saint-Germain Barcelona (Spa) Real Madrid (Spa) Bayern Munich (Ger) Arsenal (Eng) Manchester United (Eng)
Although first choice Tests at right-back offered Now first choice for A starter in 2018, and a Tall and imposing centre- Despite underwhelming in
for a while, his PSG form little but he’s well suited to European champions Real scorer of a sublime volley back, who often looks Manchester until recently,
has been erratic recently a back three. Joined Barca Madrid, Deschamps looks v Argentina in the last 16, silky and serene but still he remains key for France
and he could become a this summer from Sevilla to have finally promoted the versatile defender’s a little raw at times. Rapid who lack experienced
weak link (or even lose despite Chelsea interest. him above long-term career has plateaued development on loan at defenders with his grace
his place), but a back Likely to be a feature of the favourite Lucas Digne for despite a move to Bayern Marseille saw him break and guile. A four-time
three suits him. defence going forward. the reserve left-back spot. and isn’t fully trusted now. into the national squad. Champions League winner.
4 6 53 8 91 29
1 1 2 0 11 2
Eduardo CAMAVINGA Matteo GUENDOUZI N’Golo KANTE Christopher NKUNKU Paul POGBA Adrien RABIOT
Real Madrid (Spa) Marseille Chelsea (Eng) RB Leipzig (Ger) Juventus (Ita) Juventus (Ita)
MIDFIELDERS
Emerged as one of this His spirited, belligerent In theory, still the world’s The versatile attacker kept Largely superb for Famously refused to
generation’s leading persona has finally found leading holding midfielder pace with Europe’s best France over the years but be a 2018 stand-by but
talents in a standout a home at Marseille after with his boundless energy, for goals and assists last his mental and physical made up with Deschamps
display against PSG being shown the exit door enthusiasm and defensive season but he remains on preparedness remain and is now a regular squad
aged just 16. Progress by Arsenal. Confident early acumen, but his best form France’s fringes. An ideal doubtful after injury and member – if not a starter
at Real Madrid has caps for the senior team and fitness have been Griezmann replacement if controversy. Scored in the – despite lacking club
been slow but steady. have promised much. intermittent of late. his form fails to improve. 2018 WC final v Croatia. form in Italy.
14 97 19 40 28 114
1 37 3 5 4 49
Aurelien TCHOUAMENI Karim BENZEMA Wissam BEN YEDDER Kingsley COMAN Ousmane DEMBELE Olivier GIROUD
Real Madrid (Spa) Real Madrid (Spa) Monaco Bayern Munich (Ger) Barcelona (Spa) Milan (Ita)
FORWARDS
Even before an €80m Europe’s standout Quietly prolific for Monaco Although absent for 2018, Persistent injuries have Led the line in 2018
move to Real Madrid, the attacker of last season, and a squad regular, the the quick, skilful winger is derailed the progress of without having a shot on
graceful midfield dynamo a dramatic return to the stocky striker is a reliable always an effective option. an outstanding talent but target and seemed to have
looked totally at home in fold saw a shift towards but underused option up Deschamps is considering his recent return to form is been replaced entirely by
international football. He a more expansive style. front. Ligue 1 joint-top shifting him to wing-back. well-timed. Electrifyingly Benzema but offers balance.
could be key given other Could win his 100th scorer in 2019-20 with Winner of 11 consecutive quick but doesn’t always On the verge of becoming
midfield fitness concerns. cap in Qatar. Kylian Mbappe. league titles in club football. deliver an end product. Les Bleus’ record scorer.
110 59
42 28
ALSO IN CONTENTION
GOALKEEPERS Alban LAFONT (Nantes), Steve MANDANDA (Rennes)
DEFENDERS Benoit BADIASHILE (Monaco), Lucas DIGNE (Aston Villa, Eng), Wesley FOFANA
Antoine GRIEZMANN Kylian MBAPPE (Chelsea, Eng), Ibrahima KONATE (Liverpool, Eng), Clement LENGLET (Tottenham Hotspur, Eng),
Atletico Madrid (Spa) Paris Saint-Germain Nordi MUKIELE (Paris Saint-Germain), Adrien TRUFFERT (Rennes), Dayot UPAMECANO
Age 31 (21.03.91) Age 23 (20.12.98) (Bayern Munich, Ger), Kurt ZOUMA (West Ham United, Eng)
After a rocky spell his His rampaging
place has been questioned, perfomances as a MIDFIELDERS Benjamin BOURIGEAUD (Rennes), Nabil FEKIR (Real Betis, Spa), Youssouf FOFANA (Monaco),
but he is often at his best teenager in France’s Boubacar KAMARA (Aston Villa, Eng) – injured, Corentin TOLISSO (Lyon), Jordan VERETOUT (Marseille)
in a France shirt and has 2018 World Cup win will
Deschamps’ trust. Golden become the stuff of legend. FORWARDS Moussa DIABY (Bayer Leverkusen, Ger), Randal KOLO MUANI (Eintracht Frankfurt, Ger),
Boot winner and Best Perhaps the world’s best Anthony MARTIAL (Manchester United, Eng), Martin TERRIER (Rennes)
Player at Euro 2016. player currently.

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> GERMANY
No pressure
Poor performances in 2018 and 2020 mean
Germany go to Qatar with few expectations
e must have
“W a vision before
our eyes and
that is to be
world champions in 2022.” Does the
Nationalmannschaft have a realistic
Disaster...
Germany fell
at the first
hurdle in 2018
chance of living up to the upbeat

rhetoric of goalkeeper and
skipper Manuel Neuer?
Ostensibly, a fifth global crown is
most unlikely. After their disastrous
efforts at World Cup 2018 and Euro
2020, there is simply too much
rebuilding work to do and, as proven
by a skittish string of draws in the
UEFA Nations League this summer,
the current German national team
still is lacking in vital areas, not least
in its profligacy in front of goal and
inconsistency over 90 minutes.
In contrast to many triumphant
German sides of the past, they
have little or no killer instinct.
That is not to say that new
Bundestrainer Hansi Flick has been have his charges chomping at the
flatlining since taking over from long- bit to restore Germany’s lustre.
serving predecessor Joachim Low The German Class of 2022 boasts
in August 2021. The air of decay numerous proven winners. At least nine
and disenchantment which was of their possible squad knows what it
prevalent in the final few years of takes to win a Champions League. This
the Low regime has now dissipated. know-how cannot be underestimated.
The current atmosphere in the camp Much of Flick’s challenge lies in
is much more buoyant. Indeed, in finding the right blend. Not only in
Flick’s first 13 games in charge, not identifying the best mixture of youth
and experience,
but also building
Ostensibly, a fifth global crown is the strongest
most unlikely. After their disastrous possible composite
efforts at World Cup 2018 and from Germany’s two
Euro 2020, there is simply too biggest clubs, Bayern
Munich and Borussia
much rebuilding work to do Dortmund.
Nick Bidwell
one of them ended in defeat.
As they proved during their thrilling
5-2 thumping of European champions HANSI FLICK have predicted that Bayern Munich would
win that season’s Champions League. In
Italy in Monchengladbach in the Nations our national team we have many players
League in June, when Flick’s side attack What would you say constitutes a who have won the biggest prizes. They
with high intensity and tempo, they successful World Cup for Germany? know what is required to be successful
When you go to a tournament with the and what it feels like. Everyone who
pose a real threat.
German national team, it’s not enough to has had this feeling wants it again.
For once, Germany will be going only get through the group stage. What’s
into a World Cup largely unburdened expected of us is at least a quarter-final Is Germany’s world ranking of 11th
by expectations. No fewer than seven and, better still, a place in the semis. a good reflection of your team’s
major tournament victories (14 final That’s also the goal of every player. recent performance levels?
This assessment doesn’t play a big role
appearances in total) tends to breed a
Is talk of Germany winning this World for me. Our goal is clear. We want to
sense of entitlement and complacency. Cup a realistic goal or wishful thinking? return to where we once were – among
Fortunately, such barriers to success will In November 2019 [when Flick took over the world’s best. But we’re conscious
not come into play this time around. as Bayern Munich coach], no one would that we still have a way to go.
Flick is an excellent motivator. He will

Upbeat...Germany
players are enjoying
life under Hansi Flick
Do you look at Qatar 2022 as a Are you more interested in pressing Winner...Joshua What specifically makes you confident
bridgehead to the 2024 European and quick attacking transitions Kimmich has won about the forthcoming tournament?
Championship, which Germany will host? than dominance in possession? it all at club level In every position we have multiple
No. We want to go as far as we can at I’m a friend of possession alternatives.
the World Cup, not simply to take part. football, but not in the sense In goal to number
Our objective is to have everyone identifying of continuously pushing the ten, from centre-
with the Nationalmannschaft. That’s not ball around. We always want back to out wide.
only a matter of sporting success, but also to have something positive Moreover, we have
showing the right mentality, the intensity, in mind. In every contact, lots of very flexible
engagement and hunger. That’s what the our thoughts must turn players, who can
supporters of a team want to see and we to attacking consequences. perform in various
demand these characteristics too. If we There’s a difference between roles, such as Kai
have a two-goal lead, I don’t want us to passing the ball amongst Havertz, Thomas
sit on it. I want us to strive for the third ourselves at the back Muller, Marco Reus
and fourth goals. It’s about enthusiasm, and going straight for and Jamal Musiala.
conviction and dedication. goal after a pass. Nick Bidwell

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> GERMANY
TACTICS SCHEDULE
PRE-WORLD CUP
Fluid and interchanging attack Sep 23
0-1 v Hungary
(Leipzig)
Sep 26
lick’s preferred formation is a 3-3 v England
F 4-2-3-1, a system based on a

high, swarming gegenpress and
a single-minded desire to flood
forward in numbers. The aim of the game
is to furiously put the opposition under
(London)
Nov 16 v Oman
(Muscat)
pressure. Fluidity is the order of the day in

attack mode. Germany often play without
a conventional number nine, the four
World Cup warm-up
frontrunners (often Timo Werner, Jonas ...Germany players
Hofmann, Thomas Muller and Leroy celebrate at Wembley
Sane) constantly interchanging positions.
The two deep-lying midfielders have GROUP GAMES
Nov 23
distinct roles. Ilkay Gundogan – who looks
v Japan
every inch a Flick type of player and may (Al Rayyan)
have overtaken the frequently injured Nov 27
Leon Goretzka in the selection hierarchy v Spain
– does a fine job of winning second balls (Al Khor)
Dec 1
and prompting counter-attacks, while
v Costa Rica
Joshua Kimmich is the rhythm master (Al Khor)
and strategist, usually to be found in
advanced areas. The oft-heard criticism
in Germany is that Kimmich is not
sufficiently aware defensively.
Watch out for the relentless left-
Raum
flank bursts of full-back David Raum
and Niklas Sule’s long, searching Interchanging Sane
diagonal balls from central defence. ...Leroy Sane,
A three-man back line, deployed often Thomas Muller
and Timo Werner Rudiger Gundogan
by former coach Joachim Low, is very
much a secondary option for Flick.
Neuer Muller Werner
Sule Kimmich
Hofmann
Kehrer
Rhythm master...
Joshua Kimmich
THE VIEW FROM GERMANY COACH

“We’re one of the favourites to be world Hansi FLICK
Former
champions. Hansi Flick has created a new assistant Age 57 (24.02.65)
positive atmosphere, a cohesive spirit. He’s ...Flick Appointed August 2021
honest, open and looks to communicate
with the players. He’s given the squad Flick was Joachim Low’s trusty right-
renewed self-confidence. In the Bayern hand man for eight years from 2006
players and our overseas-based men, we to 2014. A resoundingly successful
have guys who can make the difference.” two-year spell in charge of Bayern
Lothar Matthaus, ex-Germany captain Munich, where he won seven major
trophies after being promoted from
“Our biggest shortcoming hasn’t changed. assistant coach to interim coach in
We don’t have a genuine centre-forward. I November 2019, proved the perfect
rate Hansi Flick as a coach; he did a great audition ahead of landing Germany’s
job at Bayern. But without a proper striker, top job. Not one for grandiose tactical
it will be difficult. All the strongest teams experiments, Flick instead earns his corn
have a real taker of chances up front, from astute, rational team-building,
a Harry Kane or a Romelu Lukaku.” a bold, pro-active approach and
Klaus Fischer, ex-West Germany striker excellent man-management skills.

113 30 6 1 46 14
0 0 0 0 2 2
Manuel NEUER Marc-Andre TER STEGEN Kevin TRAPP Armel BELLA-KOTCHAP Matthias GINTER Robin GOSENS
Bayern Munich Barcelona (Spa) Eintracht Frankfurt Southampton (Eng) Freiburg Internazionale (Ita)
GOALKEEPERS
DEFENDERS
The sweeper-keeper has That the German magazine The former Paris Paris-born centre-back Assured central defender Adventurous left-back or
been Germany’s No.1 for Kicker currently rates Saint-Germain and behemoth, who has quickly or full-back who was wing-back, who celebrated
the last 13 years. The Ter Stegen as the best Kaiserslautern custodian found his feet in England a non-playing member his recovery from a thigh
Nationalelf’s insurance overseas-based German had a season to remember following a summer switch of Germany’s victorious injury this summer by
policy and arguably pro speaks volumes. In in 2021-22, starring in from Bochum. Son of World Cup squad in 2014. taking part in a triathlon.
the only irreplaceable fine form for Barca and Eintracht Frankfurt’s epic former Cameroon striker Hasn’t featured much First choice at Euro 2020
element in the side. a top-class back-up. Europa League triumph. Cyrille Florent Bella. since Euro 2020. but now back-up to Raum.
7 22 11 54 5 42
0 0 0 2 0 1
Benjamin HENRICHS Thilo KEHRER David RAUM Antonio RUDIGER Nico SCHLOTTERBECK Niklas SULE
RB Leipzig West Ham United (Eng) RB Leipzig Real Madrid (Spa) Borussia Dortmund Borussia Dortmund
The purposeful right-back Versatility personified. In the Outstanding attacking left- Quite possibly the most Prototype of the modern- The man-mountain stopper
was good enough to make WC qualifiers and Nations back, almost unstoppable intimidating centre-back day centre-back, as tenacious should have more playing
his full debut for Germany League he performed solidly in one-on-one duels and in Europe at the moment. as he is dynamic. Prone, time in Qatar than his bit-
at the tender age of 19 in at right-back, left-back and supplier of a never-ending Berlin-born force of nature however, to unforced errors, part experiences at World
November 2016. Likely in central defence. Now in stream of perfect crosses. who began his career at as typified when conceding Cup 2018 and Euro 2020.
to edge out Ridle Baku the Premier League after Only made his first Germany Stuttgart and left Chelsea two penalties versus England Switched from Bayern to
and Lukas Kostermann. four seasons with PSG. start this time last year. for Madrid in the summer. in the UEFA Nations League. Dortmund in the summer.
38 44 62 16 70 118
3 14 16 4 5 44
Julian BRANDT Leon GORETZKA Ilkay GUNDOGAN Jonas HOFMANN Joshua KIMMICH Thomas MULLER
Borussia Dortmund Bayern Munich Manchester City (Eng) Borussia Monchengladbach Bayern Munich Bayern Munich
MIDFIELDERS
A technical thoroughbred Excellent box-to-box Class act all-rounder In the autumn of his career, Often criticised for No other player in the
who’s comfortable in any operative, though injuries and penalty specialist, the right-winger is enjoying not being strong enough current squad can match
attacking midfield slot, have seen Gundogan usurp combining high-quality a remarkable international defensively, but makes the veteran attacking
but his place could go him in the pecking order. A passing, movement, work state of grace. Can play right- up for it with his drive, midfielder for caps and
to Florian Wirtz if the man with a social conscience, ethic, intelligence and back too, but Flick recently link-up play, will-to-win goals. The joint-eighth
latter recovers from he lives in a working-class goalscoring ability. A full said of the latter: “The time and leadership. Played the highest scorer in World
his ACL injury in time. district of Munich. international for 11 years. for experiments is over.” most minutes in qualifying. Cup history with ten goals.
17 48 4 36 30 7
1 15 1 20 10 0
Jamal MUSIALA Marco REUS Karim ADEYEMI Serge GNABRY Kai HAVERTZ Lukas NMECHA
Bayern Munich Borussia Dortmund Borussia Dortmund Bayern Munich Chelsea (Eng) Wolfsburg
FORWARDS
Teenage sensation The Dortmund skipper is Young gun winger or Pacy, elusive winger or Tremendously talented Born in Hamburg but
comfortable in any midfield at his best as a number striker, who in 2021 second striker. In 2016 he youngster able to perform brought up in Manchester,
or attacking slot. The former ten playing behind the became the first became the first national anywhere in the attacking- Nmecha led the line in
England U21 international striker. Renowned for his Austrian league player teamer to net a hat-trick third and an alternative to Germany’s victory at the
never looks ill at ease in assists, runs in behind and to be picked for the on his debut. A silver Timo Werner playing in a 2021 European Under-21
pressure situations. Could finishing. His career has Nationalmannschaft medallist from the false nine role. His Achilles Championship where he
force his way into the XI. been plagued by injury. in the post-war era. 2016 Olympics. heel is his inconsistency. finished top scorer.
47 55
11 24
ALSO IN CONTENTION
GOALKEEPERS Oliver BAUMANN (Hoffenheim), Bernd LENO (Fulham, Eng), Marvin SCHWABE (Cologne)
DEFENDERS Ridle BAKU (Wolfsburg), Christian GUNTER (Freiburg), Marcel HALSTENBERG

Leroy SANE Timo WERNER (RB Leipzig), Mats HUMMELS (Borussia Dortmund), Lukas KLOSTERMANN (RB Leipzig),
Bayern Munich RB Leipzig Robin KOCH (Leeds United, Eng), Jonathan TAH (Bayer Leverkusen)
Age 26 (11.01.96) Age 26 (06.03.96)
A walking, talking enigma. Flick, who loves Werner’s MIDFIELDERS Maximilian ARNOLD (Wolfsburg), Julian DRAXLER (Benfica, Por),
So gifted and explosive speed and directness, Florian NEUHAUS (Borussia Monchengladbach), Anton STACH (Mainz),
in his wing play, yet so believes that the striker’s Julian WEIGL (Borussia Monchengladbach), Florian WIRTZ (Bayer Leverkusen)
often ineffective if not recent return to his old
anonymous. No player Leipzig stomping ground FORWARDS Niclas FULLKRUG (Werder Bremen), Ansgar KNAUFF (Eintracht Frankfurt),
started as many games will reinvigorate him after Youssoufa MOUKOKO (Borussia Dortmund), Simon TERODDE (Schalke), Kevin VOLLAND (Monaco, Fra)
in qualifying as his nine. a poor spell at Chelsea.

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> GHANA
Return of the Black Stars

Otto Addo and his young squad of talented
Ghanaians head to Qatar with a lot to prove
e really want to
“W make ourselves
and the nation
proud…we are
Ghana and have what it takes to come
out victorious,” rallied Otto Addo before
Ghana’s crucial two-legged 2022
World Cup qualification play-off
against Nigeria in March.
When optimism was short within the
team and belief low among the fans,
the Ghana coach knew exactly how to
trigger a reaction from his players and Last time out...
the supporters – and the Black Stars Cristiano Ronaldo
would go on to ride on the back of a dumped Ghana
raucous home atmosphere in Kumasi to out with a late
winner in 2014
qualify for Qatar following 180 minutes
of grit and resilience.
In truth, there was very little the days when the Black Stars defeated
expectation during the World Cup the likes of the Czech Republic, United
play-offs against Nigeria, especially States and Serbia on the world stage.
after Ghana’s horror show at the 2021 Aside from Otto Addo, who is
Africa Cup of Nations where they auditioning for a longer spell at the
finished rock bottom of their group helm, several players also have a lot
following a humiliating defeat to to prove. Osman Bukari has been in
AFCON debutants Comoros. impressive form for Red Star Belgrade
However, Addo has since done very this season, but it remains to be seen
how he’ll handle the pressure in Qatar.
well to overhaul the squad and reset the
team’s mentality. The former Borussia A great tournament will do
Dortmund midfielder now has at his Mohammed Kudus’ future a load of
disposal a young, hungry crop that good too following his limited game
forms the core of the team. time at Ajax, and Jordan Ayew has
But for all the highlighted perks, to finally show up or lose his place
the Black Stars won just one out as Inaki Williams and other options
lurk in the wings.
The Black Stars
Otto Addo has done very well to may be back on the
overhaul the squad and reset the world stage but are
team’s mentality…he now has at Addo and his young
his disposal a young, hungry crop squad ready for the
challenge? Only
that forms the core of the team time will tell.
Emmanuel Ayamga
of their first six games after Addo
took charge in February. Ghana
narrowly edged Nigeria in the World OTTO ADDO It’s always a danger to bring in new players.
There’s a group dynamic which you don’t
Cup play-offs via away goals, while want to break, but from what I saw they were
their only win from open play under What do you think of your draw for Qatar? welcomed well. They did well in training and
Addo came against Madagascar in Our group is certainly not easy, that’s clear. got along with the others and it’s not like
But I think that the teams are balanced, they were strangers – some knew each other
a 2023 AFCON qualifier.
apart from perhaps Portugal, against whom it from playing in the same league before. It’s
This is certainly not good enough, will be extremely difficult. But no World Cup a good situation. We have pressure from the
especially with the Black Stars paired has ever panned out like the experts have bench because new people are there who are
in a tricky group alongside Portugal, predicted. I believe anything is possible. If very solid in Europe, and we have players on
Uruguay and South Korea in Qatar. we’re at 100 per cent, we can beat anyone. the pitch who have to prove themselves.
Ghana are returning to the World
You have persuaded several new players, How have you managed to do both the
Cup after missing out on the previous former internationals with other countries, Ghana coach job and keep your role as
edition in Russia, but expectations to play for Ghana. Is that not risky so talent manager at Borussia Dortmund?
have been renewed and Ghanaian close to the World Cup finals? The association had already asked me to
fans are already harking back to

Black Stars return...
Kwasi Okyere Wriedt
celebrates Ghana’s
WC qualification
coach in February, but at that time their against Nigeria in the first leg, the team I have a very good team around me. That
priority was on someone who could work impressed with the way it played and so the support and trust is the most important
permanently for Ghana. The offer was a great Ghana FA president said to me afterwards thing. My assistant coach Didi Dramani
honour for me. In the talks, I made it clear that, if we qualified, he wanted me to takes care of many things on site and our
that I could do the national team job on an carry on, at least until the World Cup. technical advisor Chris Hughton also does
interim basis and as a dual function with my After the 1-1 draw in the second leg, Experienced...Addo at a lot of the work for me. We get together
Dortmund work. I think as a national coach we qualified and it was agreed I could the 2006 World Cup several times a week in Zoom meetings
you should also live in the country you work continue with the double function, and exchange ideas. Of course
for in the long term. Of course, many things and we were then able to agree on it’s a challenge but I think we
can also be organised and delegated remotely this with Dortmund in subsequent have handled it well. During
in the short term. But I see myself staying in discussions. It was always clear the day I’m completely on
Germany, at least for the next few years. to me that I didn’t want to give the pitch for Borussia. I do
up my job in Dortmund. most things, telephone calls,
Was the plan for you to be in charge meetings, etc. in the evenings
only for the World Cup play-offs then? How then have you been able when my children are asleep!
Exactly, but although we drew 0-0 at home to juggle your two jobs? Mark Gleeson

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> GHANA
TACTICS SCHEDULE
PRE-WORLD CUP
Back three or back four? Sep 23
0-3 v Brazil
(Le Havre)
Sep 27
hana have been defensively 1-0 v Nicaragua
G okay under Otto Addo thus

far, however, a 4-1 thrashing
at the hands of Japan in the
Kirin Cup in June has forced the Black
Stars’ coach to rethink the team’s set-up.
(Lorca)
Nov 17 v
Switzerland
(Abu Dhabi)
During the World Cup play-offs against

Nigeria, Addo showed his in-game
ingenuity by switching between a back
three and a back four. The first leg at
Revenge...Ghana lost
home saw the Black Stars play expansively to Uruguay in 2010
in a 4-2-3-1 formation, but they were a
bit more pragmatic, in a 3-4-3, for much GROUP GAMES
of the reverse fixture and even switched Nov 24
v Portugal
to a back five after taking an early lead (Doha)
against the Super Eagles in Abuja. Nov 28
It’s fair to say Addo tactically outclassed v South Korea
Nigeria’s Augustine Eguavoen despite his (Al Rayyan)
relative lack of experience, but his tactical Dec 2
v Uruguay
shrewdness will be tested further in Qatar. (Al Wakrah)
The availability of Tariq Lamptey
means Addo now has a natural right-
back in his squad, and Denis Odoi can
also comfortably slot in at the right side
of a back three. But the Ghana coach
G. Mensah
has bigger issues in midfield, where the
most suitable partner for Thomas Partey Midfield lynchpin Sulemana
remains a conundrum. Mubarak Wakaso ...Thomas Partey
is a robust presence but lacks tactical
discipline, while Mohammed Kudus offers Salisu Idrissu
more as a No.10 than in a deeper role.
Wollacott Kudus Williams
Djiku Partey
J. Ayew
Lamptey
Setback...Ghana
were beaten 4-1
by Japan in June
THE VIEW FROM GHANA COACH

“The group games will be daunting, Otto ADDO
First job...
especially with the Black Stars being the Otto Addo Age 47 (09.06.75)
lowest-ranked team in Qatar. However, Appointed February 2022
there are some scores to settle with
Uruguay based on happenings in South Addo is highly rated at Dortmund but
Africa 2010, and Ghana’s display against his legend in the managerial dugout was
Germany in Brazil 2014 shows you can’t birthed at the Moshood Abiola Stadium
write off Addo’s side on the big stage.” in Abuja, where he led Ghana to qualify
Kwame Boakye, editor-in-chief, Pulse for the 2022 World Cup at the expense
of Nigeria. While many Ghanaians and
“I expect Addo to make tough calls: pick the GFA remain grateful to him for this
the right players, the ones who are active feat, the true test of whether he is cut
and good enough to change games. His out for the job will come in Qatar. He’s
success will hinge on shielding the team in his first job as a head coach and will
from all outside activity. I hope he makes be handling a team at a tournament for
the set-up a sacrosanct place where the the first time, but the stakes are high
Stars feel safe to deliver for the country.” and expectations won’t be lowered.
Yaw Ofosu, sports journalist, TV3 Not even for a novice son of the land.

2 26 11 45 48 18
0 0 0 0 1 1
Abdul Manaf NURUDEEN Richard OFORI Joe WOLLACOTT Daniel AMARTEY Abdul BABA RAHMAN Alexander DJIKU
Eupen (Bel) Orlando Pirates (RSA) Charlton Athletic (Eng) Leicester City (Eng) Reading (Eng) Strasbourg (Fra)
GOALKEEPERS
DEFENDERS
A consistent figure Began the qualifying 2022 has been a great Faces a battle to start Incredibly still on the Djiku is Ghana’s most
for his club, he proved campaign as first choice, year for “Jojo” and he due to his slump in books at Chelsea, Baba in-form centre-back at
he could be a reliable but niggling injuries cost seems to be Addo’s form for Leicester City, Rahman is back playing the moment, and it’ll be
option for Ghana during him his starting spot. His trusted option as first- but he’s always been active football again, but surprising if he’s not one of
a friendly win over return to full fitness could choice goalkeeper. dependable in a Ghana he’s unlikely to be in the the first names on Addo’s
Chile that came via give Addo a selection Outstanding in the shirt. Also capable as starting XI due to the tight team sheet despite the
penalties in June. headache in goal. play-offs v Nigeria. a holding midfielder. competition at left-back. tough competition.
1 12 0 4 2 20
0 0 0 0 0 0
Tariq LAMPTEY Gideon MENSAH Abdul MUMIN Denis ODOI Mohammed SALISU Baba IDDRISU
Brighton (Eng) Auxerre (Fra) Rayo Vallecano (Spa) Club Brugge (Bel) Southampton (Eng) Real Mallorca (Spa)
MIDFIELDERS
A new addition to the Ghana’s best left-back Rated as one of Ghana’s Odoi has been one of Addo’s Persuaded vigorously to Iddrisu is Ghana’s most
squad after a switch of at the moment, Mensah’s future stars, Mumin may most trusted defenders play for Ghana, it looks destructive holding
international allegiance, move to Auxerre from Red yet be an understudy to since coming into the side like Addo has big plans midfielder and has been
the English-born star’s Bull Salzburg means he’ll the team’s senior centre- in March and looks set to for the Southampton Addo’s first choice in
pace offers Ghana width. be going to the World Cup backs in Qatar. Moved to play a key role in Qatar. defender. He improves that role. That is not
He’s the Black Stars’ with lots of game time Spain in the summer from Played over 150 games Ghana’s back line expected to change
best right-back. under his belt. Vitoria Guimaraes. in six years at Fulham. immeasurably. for the World Cup.
18 14 2 40 70 7
5 0 0 13 13 1
Mohammed KUDUS Daniel-Kofi KYEREH Elisha OWUSU Thomas PARTEY Mubarak WAKASO Felix AFENA-GYAN
Ajax (Ned) Freiburg (Ger) Gent (Bel) Arsenal (Eng) Eupen (Bel) Cremonese (Ita)
FORWARDS
Kudus is Ghana’s most Kyereh was Ghana’s most Owusu’s cameo The only natural central Described by Addo as a He is inexperienced
creative player. He has an in-form midfielder last appearance in the World midfielder in Ghana’s squad, “fantastic” player, Wakaso’s and raw but hungry for
eye for a pass and boasts season, but his limited Cup play-offs against Partey starts as long as experience makes him success, and his drive is
good statistics in terms of game time since joining Nigeria endeared him he’s fit. More attacking for a valuable option for the the reason why Addo
goals and assists. Likely to Freiburg from St Pauli in to many Ghanaians, but his country than his club Black Stars. Has played in rates him so highly.
be given the No.10 role the summer has made he’s likely to start on and on his day he can Greece, Russia, Scotland, Qatar could be his
behind the striker. him slightly forgotten. the bench in Qatar. dominate any opponent. Spain, China and Belgium. breakout tournament.
109 81 7 13 1 3
23 19 1 1 0 0
Andre AYEW Jordan AYEW Osman BUKARI Abdul FATAWU ISSAHAKU Ransford-Yeboah KONIGSDORFFER Antoine SEMENYO
Al Sadd (Qat) Crystal Palace (Eng) Red Star Belgrade (Srb) Sporting (Por) Hamburg (Ger) Bristol City (Eng)
Captain, leader and one Andre’s younger brother Pacy, skilful and ruthless There’s a feeling among One of the new players in Semenyo has been
of Ghana’s biggest goal was part of Ghana’s last in front of goal, Bukari some Ghanaians that the team, the Berlin-born imperious for Bristol
threats, Ayew’s place World Cup squad in 2014 offers something different Fatawu Issahaku was attacker has already been City in 2022. Born in
in the starting line-up is but has struggled in front compared to Ghana’s rushed into the national among the goals for Hamburg London, his switch of
still not guaranteed after of goal in recent times, other wingers. Made an team. He’s young and has in the Bundesliga 2 following international allegiance
sitting out the play-offs which could scupper his explosive start to the potential, but unlikely a summer switch from and form will give Addo
against Nigeria. chances of starting. season in Serbia. to be a starter. Dynamo Dresden. a selection headache.
12 2
0 0
ALSO IN CONTENTION
GOALKEEPERS Razak ABALORA (Sheriff Tiraspol, Mda), Lawrence ATI-ZIGI

(St Gallen, Sui), Danlad IBRAHIM (Asante Kotoko)
Kamaldeen SULEMANA Inaki WILLIAMS DEFENDERS Joseph AIDOO (Celta Vigo, Spa), Stephan AMBROSIUS (Karlsruhe, Ger), Jonathan
Rennes (Fra) Athletic Bilbao (Spa) MENSAH (Columbus Crew, USA), Alidu SEIDU (Clermont, Fra), Andy YIADOM (Reading, Eng)
Age 20 (15.02.02) Age 28 (15.06.94)
One of the most exciting Ghana’s lack of goals MIDFIELDERS Edmund ADDO (Sheriff Tiraspol, Mda), Gladson AWAKO (Accra Great Olympics),
youngsters in Europe, there means Williams walks into Yaw YEBOAH (Columbus Crew, USA)
is a lot of expectation on the starting XI. He may be
Sulemana, although he only new, but he’s by far the FORWARDS Daniel AFRIYIE BARNIEH (Hearts of Oak), Christopher ANTWI-ADJEI
recently returned from a most potent striker in the (Bochum, Ger), Richmond BOAKYE (Lamia, Gre), Joseph PAINTSIL (Genk, Bel),
long injury lay-off. Started all squad. Younger brother Benjamin TETTEH (Hull City, Eng), Kwasi Okyere WRIEDT (Holstein Kiel, Ger)
three games at AFCON 2021. Nico represents Spain.

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> IRAN
Carlos’ comeback
Carlos Queiroz returns to Iran job hoping
to restore some calm to a chaotic build-up
o in the end, history, as is
S often said, repeated itself. Just

over 1,300 days after a bitter
end to his previous tenure as
Iran’s manager, Carlos Queiroz is back
and bound to represent Team Melli for
Mr Popular...
Queiroz celebrates
beating Morocco
at Russia 2018
the third consecutive World Cup.

On paper, participating in only their
sixth-ever World Cup, in a nearby
country that is Qatar, should have been
a mouth-watering prospect for Iranians.
However, the mood in Iran has been
anything but buoyant with anticipation
in recent months. Poor preparations,
the precarious position of the former
coach, lack of unity among players,
and a leadership void in the football
federation were already sources of
huge concern before the protests It took Iran’s football federation
in September took the limelight six days to overrule the technical
away from the upcoming World committee’s decision and reinstate
Cup within the country. Skocic on July 17. Just over a month later,
Earlier in 2022, and after securing in came the newly-elected president of
a straightforward qualification for Qatar, the football federation, Mehdi Taj, who
Iran’s former coach Dragan Skocic then immediately dismissed Skocic
presumed his position at the World and brought Carlos Queiroz back
Cup to be all but secured. However, only 74 days before the World Cup.
a disappointing defeat against South Chaos? Crisis? Confusion? Label
Korea in the penultimate match of the it what you like but write them off at
qualifiers, followed by a loss to Algeria your peril. Iranian players’ response
in a friendly, and the ever-increasing to challenges and being the underdog
stories of disarray in the preparation might surprise many. Despite all the
camp in Doha put the Croatian coach adversities, the best-ranked team in
under immense pressure. Some players Asia has reasons for optimism, too. The
dazzling Mehdi
Taremi, who has
Poor preparations, the precarious been at the peak
position of the former coach, lack of of his powers in
unity among players, and a leadership the past couple
void in the football federation were of years in Porto,
forms a lethal
already sources of huge concern partnership up
front with Bayer
openly declared their support for the Leverkusen’s Sardar Azmoun,
coach but a few other senior members who has 41 goals to his name
of the squad refrained from doing so. in the national team’s colours. CARLOS QUEIROZ
Later in July, the Iranian federation’s In the past two World Cups under
technical committee decided Skocic Queiroz, Iran have displayed resilience How did your reappointment come about?
was no longer suitable for the role. and character against top sides like I only opened negotiations with the federation
Suddenly, a new wave seemingly Argentina, Spain and Portugal. Four seven or ten days before the appointment.
I was told that one of the candidates might
driven by political intentions emerged years ago, they were merely inches choose me as his priority. I was asked if I’m
and called for an Iranian coach to lead away from winning the group when the available. Back then I had no job and was sat
the national team against England and ball fell into Taremi’s path in the dying at home. I said: “Yes, I am.” It’s a great honour
the United States in Qatar. After all, seconds versus Portugal but ultimately to coach Iran or any other national team.
the turbulent relationship between the it wasn’t meant to be. That said, Team
How do you view this new opportunity?
countries over the past four decades Melli still faces a daunting challenge in I don’t think of this opportunity as a reward
meant that these encounters would Qatar, and qualification from the group from the Iranians. I don’t want to use it to
be anything but an ordinary football will be deemed a glorious achievement. have fun in the World Cup. I accepted it
match to some people in Iran. Adel Ferdowsipour

Job done...Iran’s
players are jubilant
after sealing their
place in Qatar
with total commitment and accountability. this one with 75-80 games in their legs. and serve it. I have never seen a group of
So, I have no choice but to improve. It will be completely different. They’ll come players give so much with so little available
into this World Cup in top shape. Before the Back in Iran...Queiroz to them. With such little opportunities,
How will you be preparing for this 2018 World Cup, we tried to get the players takes his first training bonuses and facilities they’ve had
unique and unprecedented World Cup? up for the games while the likes of England session since returning very little, but they’ve done great.
We’re only going to be given seven days of or Germany brought their players
preparation. This World Cup is a short-term down because they had already What will be you and your team’s
situation because “the show must go on”, but played 80 games. Nobody knows wider role at this World Cup?
how can Asian and African teams compete what will happen in Qatar, but In this current world, we have
against top European sides in seven days? Europeans will head into to pass on the message of peace
European and South American footballers the tournament flying. and empathy. Our job isn’t about
play at Real Madrid, in Milan and in London. politics. It’s not about economics.
Can you compete against a space shuttle with What is Iran’s unique quality? It’s about entertainment and to bring
a Boeing 737? English footballers will play I haven’t seen players as dedicated happiness, to try to make people
14 games in their leagues before facing us. to their national team as Iranians. proud of their culture and history.
Unlike in past editions, they won’t head into They want to grow in this shirt Adel Ferdowsipour

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> IRAN
TACTICS SCHEDULE
PRE-WORLD CUP
Mid-to-low block, fast counters Sep 23
1-0 v Uruguay
(St Polten)
Sep 25
arlos Queiroz, who has the most 1-1 v Senegal
C number of games to his name

as Iran coach and previously
led the side into the 2014 and
2018 World Cups, is already quite familiar
with the squad at his disposal. A quality
(Maria Enzersdorf)
that is crucial given the short time left

before facing England, the United States Match-winner...
and Wales in Group B, where Team Melli Taremi scored
against Uruguay
is more likely to stick to its 4-3-3 set-up.
Queiroz has long proven to be adept at GROUP GAMES
setting up a robust defensive organisation Nov 21
against opposition with more individual v England
(Al Rayyan)
quality. Iran are expected to adopt a similar
Nov 25
strategy to the past two World Cups – v Wales
i.e. a mid-block or a low-block with (Al Rayyan)
an eye on fast counters on the break. Nov 29
A number of things, some for the v United States
(Doha)
better and some for the worse, have
happened since Russia 2018, when Iran
fell a step short of qualifying from a group
containing Spain, Portugal and Morocco.
Unlike the previous edition where most
Iranians were making their World Cup
debuts, the current squad consists of at
Hajsafi
least 15 players who have the experience
of playing in football’s most coveted Talisman... Ebrahimi Taremi
tournament. Also, the quality and talent Mehdi Taremi
in Iran’s attacking phase have seen a
significant rise lately. Led by Porto star, M. Hosseini
Mehdi Taremi, Iran’s offensive players
are expected to play a pivotal role in Beiranvand Ezatolahi Azmoun
Queiroz’s quick transition plans.
On the other hand, the insufficient Kanaanizadegan
number of friendlies have sabotaged Iran’s
preparations. With constant disputes within Nourollahi Jahanbakhsh
and around the team camp in the months
leading to Queiroz’s reappointment, there Moharrami
is only a small window of opportunities
left to get the team to the required
level for the tournament in Qatar.
THE VIEW FROM IRAN COACH

“The current squad includes a number of Back in the
Carlos QUIEROZ (Por)
players who are or who had been playing hot seat... Age 59 (01.03.53)
in European leagues. I believe it will be Queiroz Appointed September 2022
a mental boost in the upcoming tough
matches. I think this Iran team can head Despite qualifying for World Cup 2002
into the competition without any fear or with South Africa, Carlos Queiroz did not
nerves and that is a huge advantage for lead Bafana Bafana in Japan and South
us compared to the past few editions.” Korea. However, he is set for his fourth
Masoud Shojaei, ex-Iran international World Cup appearance after managing
Portugal in 2010 and Iran at the previous
“Most players played at Russia 2018 and two finals. His less successful managerial
they are led by a manager who will be at tenures include being at the helm of
his fourth World Cup. Iran have come on Real Madrid from 2003-04 and failing
leaps and bounds in the attacking phase. to qualify both Colombia (2019-20) and
This is the best generation of Iranian Egypt (2021-22) for the Qatar finals.
football in terms of offensive qualities, His new contract as Iran head coach
and that will be a potent weapon.” is short-term and only valid until the
Javad Nekounam, Iran’s record caps holder end of the upcoming World Cup.

11 51 5 120 2 18
0 0 0 6 0 0
Amir ABEDZADEH Alireza BEIRANVAND Hossein HOSSEINI Ehsan HAJSAFI Saleh HARDANI Majid HOSSEINI
Ponferradina (Spa) Persepolis Esteghlal AEK Athens (Gre) Esteghlal Kayserispor (Tur)
GOALKEEPERS
DEFENDERS
Years of playing in Europe Mostly recognised for saving His brilliant 2021-22 In line to wear the Coach changes have His inclusion in the 2018
render him Beiranvand’s Cristiano Ronaldo’s penalty season for the eventual armband in his third diminished his chances squad was most unexpected.
main competition for at Russia 2018. After a spell champions Esteghlal has World Cup campaign. of playing at right-back. Regardless, Hosseini, who
the gloves. Son of in Europe, he is back in Iran earned him a place in the He is just as likely (and His brother is also a player in has been playing in the
Ahmadreza, Iran’s and aiming to become the national team squad once capable) of playing in the Iran professional league. Turkish league since then,
legendary keeper at first Iranian goalkeeper to again. Likely third choice central midfield as Made a couple of sub hopes to state his case to
the 1998 World Cup. play at two World Cups. ahead of Payam Niazmand. he is at left-back. appearances in qualifying. be in the XI once again.
2 34 22 45 21 14
0 2 1 1 0 0
Abolfazl JALALI Hossein KANAANIZADEGAN Shoja KHALILZADEH Milad MOHAMMADI Sadegh MOHARRAMI Omid NOORAFKAN
Esteghlal Al Ahli (Qat) Al Ahli (Qat) AEK Athens (Gre) Dinamo Zagreb (Cro) Sepahan
A surprise inclusion in the A ball-playing central Made his way into the XI The man who attempted Skocic’s confidence turned His stellar club form sealed
line-up in Queiroz’s second defender who has improved under Skocic’s tutelage and, that roly-poly throw-in him into Iran’s undisputed his spot in the national team
debut, the rapid left-back drastically in the past four despite some early concerns, late in the match v Spain right-back in qualifying. His under Skocic. Can play left-
had a roller-coaster year. years. Playing in the Qatari he seems to be in Queiroz’s in 2018. But the energetic strong start in the UEFA back, centre-back, central
After serious injury and a league, he is considered plans as well. Enjoys a solid left-back has more to his Champions League has midfield or left midfield but
relegation with Saipa, he the cornerstone of partnership with club team- game than what mainly meant he has retained it remains to be seen if
won the title with Esteghlal. Iran’s back line. mate Kanaanizadegan. caught the eyes in Russia. his place under Queiroz. Queiroz equally trusts him.
45 45 66 54 47 33
3 2 2 0 1 2
Morteza POURALIGANJI Ramin REZAEIAN Vahid AMIRI Omid EBRAHIMI Saeid EZATOLAHI Saman GHODDOS
Persepolis Sepahan Persepolis Al Wakrah (Qat) Vejle (Den) Brentford (Eng)
MIDFIELDERS
After a year of being One of the beneficiaries A resolute and tireless A midfield general who is His marginally offside goal Opted to represent Iran over
sidelined with injuries, of the recent managerial warrior. A severe back always up for a battle. The v Spain in 2018 still haunts Sweden before World Cup
he is back in time to be in change. Queiroz’s trusted injury didn’t stop him from veteran has been playing Iranian fans. He was raised in 2018 and played for Team
contention for the World option at right-back was getting fit in time for Qatar. in Qatar for some years a footballing family and has Melli in that tournament. Is
Cup. Pouraliganji displayed rarely included in Skocic’s A jack-of-all-trades who and hopes to replicate his played across the globe in striving to find more playing
convincing performances plans. Still, he faces tough can play all across the admirable displays of the Russia, England, Denmark, time under Queiroz than he
under Queiroz in Russia. competition from Moharrami. left side of the pitch. past World Cup in 2022. Spain, Belgium and Qatar. did with Skocic in charge.
26 26 10 35 93 65
6 3 0 6 29 41
Ali GHOLIZADEH Ahmad NOUROLLAHI Milad SARLAK Mehdi TORABI Karim ANSARIFARD Sardar AZMOUN
Charleroi (Bel) Shabab Al Ahli (UAE) Persepolis Persepolis Omonia Nicosia (Cyp) Bayer Leverkusen (Ger)
FORWARDS
Missed out on the plane to He ploughed his way into Amid the congestion of An unused sub in Iran’s The only Iranian to score Forms a prolific partnership
Russia with an untimely the national team line-up options for the defensive 2018 squad in Russia, at Russia 2018 hopes to with Mehdi Taremi, but is a
injury. The gifted winger after Russia 2018 and has midfield spot, Sarlak has Torabi has since been be in line for his third major doubt for the World
was a mainstay in Skocic’s been a regular ever since. proven to be a capable a leading player in Iran’s World Cup. His chances Cup with a calf muscle
side but it is unclear if An assuring presence in back-up for the position. domestic league. Queiroz’s of being included have injury. Controversially
Queiroz has as much faith the middle of the park Promising domestic displays return is most likely good certainly increased with commented on the
in the left-footed technician. with an eye for goal. have been a key factor. news for the winger. Queiroz back in charge. recent protests in Iran.
64 60
13 28
ALSO IN CONTENTION
GOALKEEPERS Mohammadreza AKHBARI (Tractor), Payam NIAZMAND (Sepahan)
DEFENDERS Aref AGHASI (Foolad), Danial ESMAEILIFAR (Persepolis),

Alireza JAHANBAKHSH Mehdi TAREMI Farshad FARAJI (Persepolis), Aref GHOLAMI (Esteghlal), Siavash YAZDANI (Esteghlal)
Feyenoord (Ned) Porto (Por)
Age 29 (11.08.93) Age 30 (18.07.92) MIDFIELDERS Amirhossein HOSSEINZADEH (Charleroi, Bel), Ali KARIMI (Kayserispor, Tur), Mohammad
A standout performer in Porto’s star striker and KARIMI (Sepahan), Mehdi MEHDIPOUR (Esteghlal), Saeid SADEGHI (Persepolis), Yasin SALMANI (Sepahan)
Iran’s successful qualifying Team Melli’s talisman played
campaign and preparing a pivotal role with his goals FORWARDS Mehdi GHAYEDI (Esteghlal), Mohammad MOHEBI (Esteghlal),
for his third World Cup. in qualifying. With more Kaveh REZAEI (Tractor), Allahyar SAYYADMANESH (Hull City, Eng)
Now back in the Eredivisie experience under his belt,
where he was once the he’ll be aiming to make
league’s top goalscorer. a big impact in Qatar.

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> JAPAN
Dangerous underdogs
Despite a tough draw alongside two European
giants, Samurai Blue can’t be underestimated
apan’s seventh consecutive
J World Cup after never previously

qualifying confronts them with
their hardest group yet in the
shape of two perennial World Cup
giants, Germany and Spain. Memories,
Last time out...Japan
were dumped out by
Belgium in 2018
though, of the round-of-16 match in

Russia against Belgium, the top FIFA
ranked team of 2018, should remind
us that Japan can put up a strong fight.
That time, Japan led 2-0 before falling
3-2 deep in time added on. The moral
of the tale is that upsets, though
unlikely, are possible.
Japan come to this World Cup
under a manager, Hajime Moriyasu,
whose career exactly spans the rise
of Japanese football. He played from
the start of the J. League in 1993 and, for 2022, long interrupted like everyone
barely three months later, was a key else’s by the COVID-19 pandemic, started
member of the last Japan team that with a 2-0 win over Myanmar in Yangon
failed to make it to the World Cup. The in September 2019, and climaxed with
heartbreaking, last-gasp 2-1 loss to Iran a spectacular 2-0 victory in Australia
in Qatar and final-game 2-2 draw with in March this year, but passed through
Iraq, which turned joy to despair after a cold patch in the middle.
they conceded a 90th-minute equaliser Japan sped out of the blocks in
(a win would have seen Samurai Blue the second round of Asian qualifying,
qualify for USA ’94) is still remembered scoring 46 goals and conceding only
in Japan as the “Tragedy of Doha”. twice in eight matches, which included
Moriyasu’s chances of producing a a 14-0 win in Mongolia and 10-0 home
“Triumph of Doha” 29 years later look victory in the return tie against Myanmar.
Strangely, Japan
then suddenly
Japan come to this World Cup under looked short of
a manager, Hajime Moriyasu, whose penetration as
career exactly spans the rise of the third round
commenced.
Japanese football. He played from the Centre-forward
start of the J. League and was a key Osako appeared to
member of the last Japan team that be losing his touch
failed to make it to the World Cup and Japan’s quick-
passing game lost
its rhythm. The
slim on paper, but Japan do have plenty problems came to a head after the
of experience of playing in the Middle national and Olympic teams were
East. Costa Rica, too, are capable of combined following the Olympic Games. HAJIME MORIYASU
producing an upset; and, with Spain and Japan fell to two defeats in their first
Germany also inevitably taking points off three third-round matches, 1-0 at home You have been in charge of Japan
each other, Group E may not be as cut to Oman and 1-0 away to Saudi Arabia. for four years now – how would you
and dried as it first appears. That left Japan essentially needing to describe the current national team?
This is a group of accomplished and
Moriyasu will also be helped by plenty win all of their remaining games, which distinctive individuals who connect well
of inside knowledge from within his own was very nearly what they did with six and know how to play for the team.
squad, with many of the players now at straight victories, including revenge wins
leading European clubs, including nearly against Saudi Arabia and Oman and, You were assistant to Akira Nishino
at Russia 2018. How does this team
ten in Germany. Besides, others such as crucially, victories home and away to
compare with the one at the last
Yuya Osako and Hiroki Sakai, now back Australia. Japan eventually secured their World Cup? What is different,
in Japan, also have rich Bundesliga place at their seventh straight World and what has stayed the same?
experience to share. Cup with one match to spare. Many of our players now play [their
Japan’s three-year qualifying odyssey Mike Plastow

Vital goal...Kaoru
Mitoma celebrates
after scoring against
Australia in qualifying
club football] in Europe and they won’t hard group this time around. How Former assistant... your team to show to the world
show excessive respect to our opponents. do you rate your chances of making Moriyasu during the at this unique tournament?
They will play their own football with no it through to the knockout stages? 2018 World Cup The determination to fight for victory
holding back. But Japan’s organisational Every group is a hard through to the final
strength and solidarity are still the same. group. We will continue whistle. The play
to do everything in our doesn’t have to
How do you view your group opponents power to maximise our be showy, but
– two European heavyweights in the form chances of advancing. everyone has to
of Germany and Spain, plus Costa Rica? give everything
All are strong teams. They all made it What will be your team’s for the victory of
through the qualifiers and play with high main target in Qatar? the team. I want
intensity, so I’m building a team that will To reach the quarter-finals, people watching
make the right decisions and play with which we haven’t done so to feel the courage,
precise skills even under such conditions. far, and go higher still. vitality and strength
of resolve.
Japan appear to have drawn a very What do you most want Mike Plastow

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> JAPAN
TACTICS SCHEDULE
PRE-WORLD CUP
Quick passing, hard running Sep 23
2-0 v United States
(Dusseldorf)
Sep 27
ajime Moriyasu typically 0-0 v Ecuador
H uses four defenders and one

striker, with various formations
in between, but 4-2-3-1 or
4-1-4-1 is considered most typical.
Japan play a skilful, quick-passing,
(Dusseldorf)
Nov 17 v Canada
(Dubai)
hard-running game, building from rear

midfield with rapid movement down
the wings and swift through balls, whilst
Captain...Maya
defending from the front. The balance of Yoshida
the attack shifts depending on the choice
of striker: Yuya Osako is more skilful GROUP GAMES
under pressure in the box, while players Nov 23
like Takuma Asano (an injury doubt) or v Germany
(Al Rayyan)
Daizen Maeda are more dependent Nov 27
on their own individual speed. v Costa Rica
Many of Japan’s best chances come (Al Rayyan)
from the wingers, notably Junya Ito Dec 1
and Kaoru Mitoma, taking opponents v Spain
(Al Rayyan)
on and cutting in from the sides. The
quick-passing game is Japan’s forte
while set-pieces, for want of an
outstanding dead-ball specialist,
must count as a possible weakness.
The 4-1-4-1 system is most often used
Nagatomo
against stronger opponents. In this case,
the holding midfielder is typically Wataru Top scorer...Takumi Minamino
Endo and the extra attacking midfielder Minamino struck ten
is tucked in behind the striker to keep goals in qualifying
the ball high and beef up the attack. Tomiyasu Tanaka
Parking the bus is not Japan’s style.
Gonda Morita Osako
Yoshida Endo
Ito
Sakai
“Skilful under
pressure”...
Yuya Osako
THE VIEW FROM JAPAN COACH

“Germany, Costa Rica then Spain. On Hajime MORIYASU
Key figure...
paper Japan’s second round prospects Hajime Age 54 (23.08.68)
look bleak. In reality, it’s likely not as bad Moriyasu Appointed July 2018
as people think. They have more Europe-
seasoned players than any other previous Moriyasu has been a core figure in
World Cup squad – many in Germany – Japan’s football success story of the past
and will have to bank on their experience. 30 years. As a player, he won 35 caps
The first game will be make or break.” as an intelligent defensive midfielder. As
Shintaro Kano, Olympics.com a manager, he led Sanfrecce Hiroshima,
to three J. League titles in four years,
“Japan go into the World Cup without and was Akira Nishino’s right-hand man
any real stars but they do have a settled at the 2018 World Cup. Moriyasu took
side that grew in stature throughout the the helm directly after that tournament
qualifiers. There are distinct weaknesses, with a four-year mission to lead Japan
but Japan are capable of beating anyone at both the Tokyo Olympics and in Qatar,
on their day and a place in the knockout thus becoming the first Japan coach in
round is possible if not expected.” 20 years since Philippe Troussier to lead
Andrew McKirdy, AFP both the Olympic and full Japan teams.

33 95 11 5 137 17
0 0 0 0 4 0
Shuichi GONDA Eiji KAWASHIMA Daniel SCHMIDT Hiroki ITO Yuto NAGATOMO Yuta NAKAYAMA
Shimizu S-Pulse Strasbourg (Fra) Sint-Truiden (Bel) Stuttgart (Ger) FC Tokyo Huddersfield Town (Eng)
GOALKEEPERS
DEFENDERS
Gonda went to Brazil A seasoned veteran, 2022 Born in USA to a Japanese Ex-youth international Ever-present at the The Tokyo Olympic
as a sub in 2014 but his will be Kawashima’s fourth mother, Schmidt grew Ito has grown enormously last three World Cups. left-back has represented
big Japan break came World Cup after keeping up in Japan and was in Germany and is a Nagatomo is now back in Japan at every age level
when Moriyasu took goal in every match in also hand chosen by versatile option in defence Tokyo after a decade in and became a regular off
charge in 2018. He South Africa, Brazil and Moriyasu, in 2018, for the and midfield given Ko Europe but remains as the bench in the Asian
is now the coach’s Russia. His experience and Kirin Cup. Has been in Itakura’s absence with tireless as ever at either World Cup qualifiers.
main man. know-how could be key. Belgium since 2019. a serious knee injury. left or right full-back. Also plays centre-back.
71 13 29 14 121 43
1 0 1 2 12 2
Hiroki SAKAI Shogo TANIGUCHI Takehiro TOMIYASU Miki YAMANE Maya YOSHIDA Wataru ENDO
Urawa Reds Kawasaki Frontale Arsenal (Eng) Kawasaki Frontale Schalke (Ger) Stuttgart (Ger)
MIDFIELDERS
The powerfully-built A relatively late addition A centre-back for Japan, The creative right-back Japan’s captain, the The stats show the
right-back was a key man to the team, the Kawasaki Tomiyasu was sidelined by has played a big role in former Southampton and Stuttgart captain and
in Nishino’s 2018 team captain is a dependable persistent calf problems in his club’s recent domestic Sampdoria centre-back consummate defensive
and during qualifying. Now option both at centre-back 2022 but the Yoshida- success and links perfectly played every game in midfielder has been the
fully fit after recovering and as an anchor for rear Tomiyasu combination with the many past and Brazil and Russia and Bundesliga’s number
from a metatarsal midfield. Excellent back-up remains the hallmark present Kawasaki players continues as the lynchpin one tackler for two
operation in May. for Tomiyasu or Yoshida. of Moriyasu’s defence. in the national team. of Moriyasu’s defence. seasons in a row.
74 21 19 43 16 59
11 6 1 17 2 3
Genki HARAGUCHI Daichi KAMADA Takefusa KUBO Takumi MINAMINO Hidemasa MORITA Gaku SHIBASAKI
Union Berlin (Ger) Eintracht Frankfurt (Ger) Real Sociedad (Spa) Monaco (Fra) Sporting (Por) Leganes (Spa)
The veteran attacking Kamada’s tight control Small but skilful, Kubo has Minamino mostly plays Morita has developed Shibasaki started every
midfielder missed out in and eye for goal – he was drawn the accolades since wide on the left for Japan sensationally since his match in Russia, where his
2014 but played in Russia Frankfurt’s top scorer his days in Barca’s academy. but is also highly effective move to Portugal and quick covering and probing
and is a highly dependable in last season’s Europa The ex-Real Madrid ace is in the box, as evidenced offers rich options in both balls from rear midfield
option in both wide and League success – provide a potential match winner by his ten goals during attacking and defensive made him one of Japan’s
central positions. Mainly a well-honed support for when the other options Asian qualifying. Never positions. Likely starter standout players. Vying
substitute during qualifying. Japan’s front line. don’t work out. fully shone at Liverpool. in the midfield. with Tanaka in midfield.
14 36 28 38 8 9
2 7 3 9 1 5
Ao TANAKA Takuma ASANO Ritsu DOAN Junya ITO Daizen MAEDA Kaoru MITOMA
Fortuna Dusseldorf (Ger) Bochum (Ger) Freiburg (Ger) Reims (Fra) Celtic (Sco) Brighton (Eng)
FORWARDS
Creative and robust, the A key player for Moriyasu A creative presence on the Playing wide on the right, Joint-top goalscorer in the The left-winger is a new
Kawasaki youth product in his 2015 J. League right wing all throughout Ito’s speed, dribbling, J. League in 2021 before addition to the team but
and 2019 J. League Young title-winning Sanfrecce qualification, Doan shoots crosses and four crucial his move to Scotland, already looks indispensable.
Player of the Year has Hiroshima team, Asano is on sight, and shines in third-round goals made hard-running Maeda is An outstanding dribbler
won a regular slot on the rapid. Furuhashi may take tika-taka play in and him the star of Japan’s fast and scores almost with a keen eye for goal,
Japan team this year his place if he doesn’t around the box. Moved to six-game winning streak equally with headers who shone on loan at
ahead of Shibasaki. recover from injury. Freiburg from PSV in July. to secure qualification. and both feet. Union SG last term.
57 10
25 0
ALSO IN CONTENTION
GOALKEEPERS Keisuke OSAKO (Sanfrecce Hiroshima), Kosei TANI (Shonan Bellmare)
DEFENDERS Ko ITAKURA (Borussia Monchengladbach, Ger) – injured, Sho SASAKI (Sanfrecce Hiroshima),
Yuya OSAKO Ayase UEDA Ayumu SEKO (Grasshoppers, Sui), Yukinari SUGAWARA (AZ, Ned), Naomichi UEDA (Nimes, Fra)
Vissel Kobe Cercle Brugge (Bel)
Age 32 (18.05.90) Age 24 (28.08.98) MIDFIELDERS Kento HASHIMOTO (Huesca, Spa), Reo HATATE (Celtic, Sco),
Moriyasu’s first-choice Olympic centre-forward, Takuma NISHIMURA (Yokohama F. Marinos), Yuki SOMA (Nagoya Grampus)
centre-forward with ten though mainly restricted
goals during qualifying – to sub appearances, Ueda FORWARDS Kyogo FURUHASHI (Celtic, Sco), Shuto MACHINO (Shonan Bellmare),
joint-top with Minamino was top of the J. League Ado ONAIWU (Toulouse, Fra)
– Osako is Japan’s man goalscoring rankings with
for tight, contact play Kashima Antlers before his
in the penalty box. transfer to Belgium in July.

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> MEXICO
Chasing a ‘fifth match’

Mexico haven’t reached the quarter-finals
of a World Cup since hosting in 1986
or the last 28 years, Mexico
F have been the most predictable

national team in the World
Cup. On seven consecutive
occasions, El Tri have managed to
qualify for the round of 16, and
Ankle fracture...
Jesus Corona
in all of them they have been

defeated in that instance.
Mexican supporters have grown
tired of asking their team to reach the
“fifth match”, and the frustration with
each elimination is palpable every four
years. However, given the pessimism that
exists towards Gerardo “Tata” Martino’s
side heading to Qatar, most fans today
would seem content to see history
repeat itself.
The former manager of Barcelona
and Argentina began his stint with El TriCups, and many are already over 30.
in the best possible way, with an 11-match
The generational change, expected after
undefeated streak and wins over Chile, the bronze medal at the Tokyo 2020
Ecuador, Paraguay, the Netherlands and Olympic Games, has not happened,
a title in the 2019 CONCACAF Gold and the team has suffered constant
Cup, beating arch-rivals United States. injuries to its most important players,
However, in just a few months the especially the terrible skull fracture that
romance ended and gave way to anger left Raul Jimenez out for almost a year
and scorn within a big sector of the and Jesus Corona’s ankle fracture just
press and the support, who have asked three months before the World Cup.
for the coach’s head in recent games Be that as it may, it would not be the
and who consider this Mexican team to first time that Mexico arrive at a World
have little chance of doing anything of Cup wrapped in pessimism and in a
transcendency in Qatar. sea of doubt and end up advancing to
The specific reasons for the break-upthe knockout rounds against all odds,
have to do with three defeats against something that could not be ruled out
the United States in 2021. The first in in a decent looking group with Poland,
Argentina and
Saudi Arabia. But,
The romance ended and gave way to objectively, the
anger and scorn within a big sector situation seems
of the press and the support, who less hopeful than
on past occasions.
have asked for the coach’s head Martin del
Palacio Langer
the CONCACAF Nations League final,
the second in the Gold Cup final and
the third in the qualifiers for Qatar. TATA MARTINO However, there are still many players
that remain from that team in Russia.
Although the first two were essentially And they are very important. Guillermo
undeserved, with a significant dose of What’s the main difference between your Ochoa has long been a key player for the
bad luck, and the third in a place where team and the team from four years ago? national team; he gives us experience, calm,
The 2018 team had several references in security and knowledge. Edson Alvarez is
Mexico have won only once in their
European football. That is different from a very young boy but he already has a lot
history, losing three times in one year what we find today, where there are not of experience, and is the Mexican player
against the arch-rivals was inexcusable too many Mexican players in the world’s who has had the most continuity in Europe.
for the supporters, and a blow from major leagues. We were very aware that a Hector Herrera is an outstanding player, and
which Martino’s team has not been renovation was going to take place because if there’s a player who should personify the
there were many footballers who were not footballer of the Mexican national team,
able to recover. it is our captain Andres Guardado.
going to be around anymore and the
In practice, the decline could have new generation ended up winning an
been predicted. The core of the Mexican Olympic [bronze] medal in Tokyo. Mexican fans dream of advancing to the
team continues to be the same players They are part of this team too. “fifth match”. Is that an added pressure?
who have participated in past World

Qualified...Mexican
players celebrate
a goal on the road
to sealing their
place in Qatar
It would seem that Mexico at the World Cup like Lewandowski and Zielinski. I imagine that best in history but now there is also
always goes from high to low, and for that we will have more of the ball, with the rival a collective system that has ensured
reason it always ends in the round of 16. receding and going into space. The result of that not everything depends on him.
There is a performance that begins with the match will depend on how good we are Round of16 exit...
a very good game against Germany, or a at covering the spaces behind us and solving Miguel Layun reacts What would you say to the Mexican
very good France, or a very good Croatia, the situations in small spaces in attack. after Mexico’s defeat fans who doubt the team in Qatar?
and systematically the team then decreases to Brazil in 2018 There is a reality, the fans are doubtful,
in its football. The fifth game is a number, And then a match against your but they bought the tickets
but that has more support or less support home country, Argentina. to the matches and booked
in relation to how the team plays. The approach to that one will the planes and the hotels, so
depend on the score from the they will be there. And once
You start the World Cup against Poland previous one, but this Argentinian there, we have to ask them
and that seems to be the key match. team is extremely good and seems to have confidence, to get
That match is absolutely fundamental. to have a greater commitment to excited. We will do our best
Poland are a very physical team, strong, the collective than in the past. to repay their trust.
with extremely high-quality individuals In fact, as for Messi, he’s the Martin del Palacio Langer

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> MEXICO
TACTICS SCHEDULE
PRE-WORLD CUP
Bet on possession, mitigate risk Sep 25
1-0 v Peru
(Pasadena)
Sep 28
ince he took over in 2019, 2-3 v Colombia
S Tata Martino has used a 4-3-3

base, which bets on possession.
In fact, despite having faced
teams like the Netherlands, Argentina
and Uruguay, never in his time as coach
(Santa Clara)
Nov 9
v Iraq
(Girona)
Nov 16
v Sweden
(Girona)
of Mexico has he had less of the ball
than the rival team during a game. GROUP GAMES
In recent matches, and due to the lack Nov 22
of a good collective game, they have tried v Poland
a back five – an experiment which had (Doha)
catastrophic results in a 3-0 friendly loss Nov 26
v Argentina
to Uruguay - and also with a 4-1-4–1, (Lusail)
which has worked better, and which could Nov 30
be the system that he adopts in Qatar. v Saudi Arabia
Despite having lots of the ball, Mexico’s (Lusail)
system is not particularly offensive. The
idea is to minimise risk, picking midfielders
with lots of technical ability, and to try
to win individual duels with the three
attackers, who are the most talented
players on the team. Normally one of the
full-backs is more offensive than the other,
which means that Mexico usually attack
with four players in the offensive phase.
Gallardo
During his time as coach, Martino has
used a constant core of players, which will Head injury... Herrera Vega
not change at the World Cup, regardless Raul Jimenez
of the individual moments they endure –
good or bad – something that has been Moreno
criticised by the press and the fans.
Ochoa E. Alvarez Jimenez
Montes
Guardado Lozano
Sanchez
El Tri captain...
Andres Guardado
THE VIEW FROM MEXICO COACH

“This team has generated more doubts Tata MARTINO (Arg)
Ex-Barcelona...
than enthusiasm, but I think that some Tata Martino Age 59 (20.11.62)
players will arrive with good momentum Appointed January 2019
and Mexico usually transform themselves
in the World Cups. I am confident that When hired, Martino was unanimously
they will do it again this time and the celebrated by the Mexican soccer media.
team will reach, at least, the round He has coached Argentina and Barcelona
of 16 again.” and his only World Cup experience was
Claudio Suarez, former Mexico captain a success, with Paraguay advancing to
the quarter-finals at South Africa 2010.
“It’s hard to be optimistic. Tata Martino After an encouraging start with Mexico,
seemed like a good managerial option, the team has not been able to play at
but it’s hard to understand some of the same level in the last year, although
his decisions and his over-reliance he has had some bad luck. Despite
on veteran players. Playing as they the general pessimism, his experience
have played, I don’t think Mexico and knowledge have made him popular
can beat Poland or Argentina.” among his players and he has been able
Rodolfo Landeros, TV host, Fox Deportes to form a very united dressing room.

4 131 39 7 61 17
0 0 0 0 3 1
Carlos ACEVEDO Guillermo OCHOA Alfredo TALAVERA Kevin ALVAREZ Nestor ARAUJO Gerardo ARTEAGA
Santos Laguna America Juarez Pachuca America Genk (Bel)
GOALKEEPERS
DEFENDERS
The heir apparent to The main star of the team Veteran, solid keeper who Ousted experienced pair Returned to Mexico after a A mostly unknown figure
Ochoa in the national who will be featuring in his has been an understudy Julio Cesar Dominguez and few solid seasons at Celta before moving to Genk
team after Qatar. Will fifth World Cup. Aged 37 to Ochoa for most of his Luis Rodriguez at right- Vigo. Looks to have lost from Santos Laguna in
likely go to the World he hasn’t shown any signs career. Played all six games back, and currently ahead his starting spot to Montes 2020, he has earned a
Cup ahead of Rodolfo of decline. Now back home at the 2021 CONCACAF of youngsters Julian Araujo after some uncharacteristic place in the squad as the
Cota to gather in Mexico after spells in Gold Cup when Mexico and Emilio Lara. Technical mistakes. Olympic gold reserve left-back after
experience. France, Spain and Belgium. got to the final. but lacks physicality. medallist in 2012. impressing in Belgium.
77 29 126 25 6 59
0 1 5 1 0 3
Jesus GALLARDO Cesar MONTES Hector MORENO Jorge SANCHEZ Johan VASQUEZ Edson ALVAREZ
Monterrey Monterrey Monterrey Ajax (Ned) Cremonese (Ita) Ajax (Ned)
MIDFIELDERS
Extremely physical left- Tall, elegant centre-back Mainstay of the team for Dynamic and physical right- Moved to Genoa in Italy The team’s most in-form
back, who has been kept who’s poised to have a good the last 12 years. Has had back who’s much better at after a good Olympics, and player who has really
by Martino in the starting World Cup and a move to a an excellent season and is attacking than defending. now on loan at Cremonese. excelled with Ajax. The
XI amidst controversy for European side in the winter. favourite to start as the left Joined Ajax in the summer Solid defensively but his midfield anchorman
his lack of domestic form. Made his Mexico debut in centre-back. Has European after four seasons with lack of technique has should move to a
Started all four matches 2017 but not a first-team experience with Espanyol, America. A Santos Laguna convinced Martino to bigger club after
for El Tri at Russia 2018. regular until last year. Real Sociedad and PSV. academy graduate. not make him a starter. the World Cup.
35 7 179 34 100 21
9 0 28 1 10 3
Uriel ANTUNA Luis CHAVEZ Andres GUARDADO Erick GUTIERREZ Hector HERRERA Diego LAINEZ
Cruz Azul Pachuca Real Betis (Spa) PSV (Ned) Houston Dynamo (USA) Braga (Por)
The fastest player in the A very strong season The team’s captain and Versatile central Bizarrely decided to move Seemed to be the next
squad, but the right-winger with Pachuca should help leader, who should be midfielder who was not to Major League Soccer big Mexico hope but the
doesn’t offer much more him earn a place on the a starter despite having one of Martino’s favourite after earning a spot at winger’s career has stalled
than that – although his plane to Qatar before recently turned 36 and players – he only started Atletico Madrid. Immensely somewhat. Extremely
goal record is quite good. more heralded players. only starting four of the 14 once in qualifying – but talented box-to-box player talented dribbler, but lacks
Martino continues to trust Technical midfielder World Cup qualifiers. Still won him over with his and a first-choice pick in an end product. On loan in
him amidst much criticism. with good vision. going strong in Spain. consistency at PSV. midfield for Martino. Portugal from Real Betis.
50 35 71 9 96 59
6 0 10 2 29 16
Orbelin PINEDA Carlos RODRIGUEZ Jesus CORONA Santiago GIMENEZ Raul JIMENEZ Hirving LOZANO
AEK Athens (Gre) Cruz Azul Sevilla (Spa) PSV (Ned) Wolves (Eng) Napoli (Ita)
FORWARDS
Has come back to life Extremely technical The mercurial winger, Young, physical striker who Hasn’t been the same since The rapid winger,
on loan in Greece after a midfielder who has been aka “Tecatito”, suffered moved to Feyenoord in the his terrible head injury. nicknamed “Chucky”,
disappointing stint at Celta one of Martino’s favourites an ankle fracture while summer and has shown Mexico don’t have another has been pretty good at
Vigo. Creative, versatile during his tenure, preferring excelling for Sevilla. glimpses of quality. Son of striker like him, sparking a Napoli despite often being
and resourceful, he was him to Guardado at times. Martino will wait for Christian, one of the finest campaign for the recall of injured. Mexico will depend
Mexico’s joint-top scorer Played more in qualifying him until the very foreign-born playmakers Javier Hernandez, which on his ability if they want
at the 2021 Gold Cup. than any other midfielder. last minute. in LigaMX history. Martino continues to rule out. to progress in Qatar.
25 21
6 4
ALSO IN CONTENTION
GOALKEEPERS Rodolfo COTA (Leon), Jonathan OROZCO (Tijuana)
DEFENDERS Erick AGUIRRE (Monterrey), Jesus Alberto ANGULO (Tigres UANL), Julian ARAUJO
Henry MARTIN Alexis VEGA (LA Galaxy, USA), Emilio LARA (America), Israel REYES (Puebla), Luis REYES (Atlas)
America Guadalajara
Age 29 (18.11.92) Age 24 (25.11.97) MIDFIELDERS Roberto ALVARADO (Guadalajara), Fernando BELTRAN (Monterrey),
Found his best form in The most talented player Jordan CARRILLO (Sporting Gijon, Spa), Sebastian CORDOVA (Tigres UANL), Marcelo FLORES
the season before Qatar, of his generation but (Real Oviedo, Spa), Rodolfo PIZARRO (Monterrey), Luis ROMO (Monterrey), Erick SANCHEZ (Pachuca)
scoring aplenty in LigaMX. with a puzzling lack of
Could be the player to lead consistency. Excelled at FORWARDS Eduardo AGUIRRE (Santos Laguna), Rogelio FUNES MORI (Monterrey)
the line if Raul Jimenez fails the Olympics, scoring
to be fully match fit after three goals. Can play
his most recent injury. on either wing.

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> MOROCCO
Rolling the dice

Morocco have taken a gamble by replacing
the coach that qualified them for the finals
orocco fired their coach
M a matter of months before

the World Cup kick-off
and are banking on new
boss Walid Regragui injecting some
positive energy into a side who have
New manager...
Walid Regragui
an increasingly consistent history

of flattering to deceive.
Over the last decade, Morocco
have looked impressive in qualifying
only to flop at the tournament level,
be it the World Cup or Africa Cup of
Nations, where they remain without
a continental title since their sole
success in 1976.
The constant conveyor belt that rolls
out Moroccan playing talent has provided
a consistently high standard of players
club level and unlikely to prove as
to select from, but galvanising them all
into a cohesive unit is a task that haseffective as populist opinion thought
eluded past coaches. he would be.
The North African country is This is not Ziyech’s first run-in with
increasingly unique in pulling togethera national team manager. The Dutch-
a squad that, although bound by a born player was left out of Morocco’s
common heritage, is made up of players 2017 Africa Cup of Nations squad by
from many different European countries Herve Renard before the pair patched
and often with little else in common. things up ahead of the 2018 World
Many from the diaspora struggle with Cup, however Ziyech’s contribution
Arabic and French, Morocco’s two most in Russia was negligible – as was the
commonly-spoken languages, and the Atlas Lions’ team performances overall
resultant chasms in the squad have as they disappointingly finished rock
proven problematic in the past. bottom of a group containing Spain,
The current squad, for instance, Portugal and Iran.
has players born in the Netherlands, Morocco will be making their sixth
France, Belgium, Canada and Spain World Cup appearance but have won
only twice in
16 games at
Over the last decade, Morocco have the finals – the
looked impressive in qualifying only to groundbreaking
flop at the tournament level, be it the victory over
Portugal in
World Cup or Africa Cup of Nations Mexico in 1986
where they won
– countries all with a large Moroccan their group ahead of England and ran
migrant community. West Germany close in the round of 16,
New coach Regragui takes over and their 3-0 victory over Scotland in WALID REGRAGUI
from the experienced and taciturn 1998, which was not quite enough
Bosnian Vahid Halilhodzic, who was to see them past the first phase. Two convincing performances against
fired after a lengthy stand-off with Morocco were the only team in strong South American opposition
Hakim Ziyech that put him at odds with Africa who won all six of their group marked your first two games in charge
in September, so what is the potential
the Morocco football federation, under games in qualifying – although in a of this Morocco team in Qatar?
persistent public pressure from both bizarre twist played them all at home We are not favourites, that is for sure!
supporters and the media to bring – and cruised through their play-off I’d call us outsiders. We don’t have a lot
back the mercurial Chelsea attacker. tie against the Democratic Republic of time to prepare ourselves. I have only
worked a little with my staff, for the three
It is somewhat ironic then that of Congo, winning 5-2 on aggregate.
weeks before the matches in Spain [against
with Ziyech’s return to the fold and Now, though, is the time for the Atlas Chile and Paraguay]. Some of the staff
near-certain inclusion in the squad Lions to finally deliver on their promise members weren’t even in Morocco so
for Qatar, it comes at a time where and perform at a major finals. we have talked a lot on Zoom, trying
the winger is hardly featuring at Mark Gleeson

Going to Qatar...
Achraf Hakimi and
Azzedine Ounahi
celebrate beating DR
Congo in the play-offs
to determine the proper organisation How can one do without such a quality You have been talking a lot about
on the road to Qatar. Everything went player as Hakim Ziyech? He is like a Ferrari, Sacked...Vahid Morocco post-World Cup as well.
smoothly in this aspect. But to be sure, a player at a big club. His return and that Halilhodzic guided My contract is until the next World Cup
I don’t have time to try things. I won’t of [Noussair] Mazraoui has been great Morocco through in 2026 and so after Qatar we want to
make many changes, maybe two or three. for the group. There is a real team WC qualifying take the team up to a new level, to set
I’ll keep 80 per cent of the team which spirit now. I still need to work a high standard for
came to Spain. We are looking forward on the connection between ourselves. We have
to Qatar and hoping to do well, but one the players. We have many to do that if we are
should not have too many expectations options in the middle and the going to win a title,
about our team. Let’s keep on working. attack. I feel we are rich in like the Africa Cup
For me, the best is yet to come. the midfield but still we have of Nations finals. We
to work. It was always very need and want to be
The issue of Hakim Ziyech and his important for our defence constant and regular,
absence from the Moroccan set-up to keep clean sheets against and it started with
has hung over the team for a long Chile and Paraguay. That is a those games in Spain.
time. Is that now all settled? big confidence boost for us. Mark Gleeson

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> MOROCCO
TACTICS SCHEDULE
PRE-WORLD CUP
From versatile to cautious Sep 23
2-0 v Chile
(Barcelona)
Sep 27
orocco have shown a 0-0 v Paraguay
M versatility in tactics over

the past 12 months, playing
at the Cup of Nations finals
at the start of the year with a varying
degree of attacking intent, changing their
(Seville)
formation completely in March when they

overcame DR Congo in the two-legged World Cup preparation
World Cup qualification play-off, and ...Morocco v Chile
then employing an unusual two strikers GROUP GAMES
up front when they came from behind to Nov 23
beat South Africa at home in June. But at v Croatia
the World Cup, caution will be the order (Al Khor)
of the day, given the two tough opening Nov 27
v Belgium
games against Croatia and Belgium. (Doha)
Rarely do they play with three centre- Dec 1
backs, so it is likely to be a flat back four v Canada
in Qatar, covered by an ultra defensive (Doha)
midfielder, usually Fiorentina’s Sofyan
Amrabat. Marauding right-back Achraf
Hakimi is a major weapon for the side
but they have lost Belgian-based attacker
Tarik Tissoudali to a long-term injury. His
absence, along with that of full-back
Adam Masina, weakens their left flank.
Mazraoui
The returning Hakim Ziyech will offer
an added element of creativity and hope Marauding full-back Amallah Boufal
to compensate, although his fitness will ...Achraf Hakimi
be under question. Morocco’s midfield
does have technical acumen, although Saiss
can prove ponderous at times.
Bounou Amrabat En-Nesyri
Aguerd
Ounahi Ziyech
Hakimi
Returning...
Hakim Ziyech
THE VIEW FROM MOROCCO COACH

“Qualifying for the second round would Walid REGRAGUI
New appointment...
be a tremendous achievement taking Walid Regragui Age 47 (23.09.75)
into account the toughness of Group F. Appointed August 2022
The sacking of Halilhodzic could trigger
a new spirit among the players, knowing Regragui played for Morocco, notably at
that new coach Regragui is a part of the right-back in the 2004 Cup of Nations
biggest achievement of Morocco in this final where they lost to Tunisia. It was
century, reaching the 2004 AFCON final.” their best performance for almost two
Amine El Amri, sports journalist, Le Matin decades and they have not been as
close to silverware since. Popular in the
“It is true that the Moroccan team finds country, Regragui comes into the job on
itself in an iron group with Belgium, the the back of taking Wydad Casablanca to
fascinating team of Croatia and Canada, the African Champions League crown
but there is hope they can progress with in May in a much savoured final win
the presence of several radiant lions in over the powerful Al Ahly of Egypt.
Europe, such as Ziyech and Hakimi, and His playing experience came in both
with the arrival of the new coach.” Ligue 1 and La Liga and as coach
Badreddine Drissi, editor, Almountakhab he has worked in Qatar previously.

45 43 19 21 4 3
0 0 0 1 0 0
Yassine BOUNOU MUNIR Mohamedi El Kajoui Anas ZNITI Nayef AGUERD Sofiane ALAKOUCH Yahia ATTIAT ALLAH
Sevilla (Spa) Al Wehda (KSA) Raja Casablanca West Ham United (Eng) Metz (Fra) Wydad Casablanca
GOALKEEPERS
DEFENDERS
Europa League winner First choice at the Part of the team of Needed ankle surgery, Switched international Star performer for
with his Spanish club in last World Cup in Russia, home-based players following a knock in allegiance last year to his club at left-back as
2020, “Bono” was born when he was still playing that won the last African a pre-season friendly, compete in the World Cup they won the African
in Montreal, Canada but in Spain for Numancia, Nations Championship in which hampered his qualifiers for Morocco Champions League this
brought up in Casablanca but has long since lost 2020 and also competed World Cup preparations after previously playing year after returning to
before moving to Spain. his place in the line- at the FIFA Arab Cup in after his £30m move right-back for France Wydad from a brief spell
Excellent shot-stopper. up to Bounou. Qatar one year ago. from Rennes. at Under-21 level. in Greece at Volos.
4 11 53 14 10 65
0 2 8 2 0 1
Achraf DARI Jawad EL YAMIQ Achraf HAKIMI Noussair MAZRAOUI Samy MMAEE Romain SAISS
Brest (Fra) Real Valladolid (Spa) Paris Saint-Germain (Fra) Bayern Munich (Ger) Ferencvaros (Hun) Besiktas (Tur)
African Champions League Voted the best defender in A league champion World-class right-back who Belgian-born centre-back Captain of the team
winner with Wydad in May, Morocco before getting a with Inter and PSG, and moved to the Bundesliga with a Cameroonian father and a towering defensive
who then earned a move to chance to play in Europe, also played for Borussia champions from Ajax in the and a Moroccan mother, – as well as attacking –
Ligue 1 and filled in for the first at Genoa in Serie A Dortmund in a whirlwind summer. Utilised at left-back Samy’s younger brother presence, who enjoyed
injured Nayef Aguerd in and now in Spain. African five years as a professional in September with Adam Ryan is also in contention six seasons in England at
Morocco’s last two World Nations Championship after his debut for Real Masina injured and Hakimi for a berth in the 2022 Wolves before a summer
Cup warm-up games. winner in 2018. Madrid aged just 17. first choice on the right. World Cup squad. move to Turkey.
23 38 18 31 10 2
4 0 1 5 1 0
Selim AMALLAH Sofyan AMRABAT Aymen BARKOK Soufiane BOUFAL Ilias CHAIR Abde EZZALZOULI
Standard Liege (Bel) Fiorentina (Ita) Mainz (Ger) Angers (Fra) Queens Park Rangers (Eng) Osasuna (Spa)
MIDFIELDERS
The attacking midfielder Replaced his brother Recently moved to Mainz French-born wide player Belgian-born winger Barcelona prodigy who
has spent his club career Nordin as a substitute for from Eintracht Frankfurt, who has never delivered whose diminutive frame Spain were looking to tie
in his native Belgium his first World Cup finals where he started his on his potential, having has not hindered his down to play for them rather
but chose to play for appearance against Iran at Bundesliga career as previously played at Lille, rapid progress in recent than Morocco, but made his
Morocco despite an the tournament in Russia. a teenager in 2016. Southampton and Celta years – not only at club first appearance for the Atlas
overture from Red Devils A former Netherlands Represented Germany Vigo. Renowned for his level but also into the Lions after joining Osasuna
coach Roberto Martinez. Under-15 international. at various youth levels. outrageous skills. Moroccan national team. on loan in September.
16 10 9 42 13 36
0 2 2 17 2 20
Amine HARIT Imran LOUZA Azzedine OUNAHI Hakim ZIYECH Zakaria ABOUKHLAL Ayoub EL KAABI
Marseille (Fra) Watford (Eng) Angers (Fra) Chelsea (Eng) Toulouse (Fra) Hatayspor (Tur)
FORWARDS
On loan from Schalke to Former France junior Made his debut at the Played no part in the Dutch-born product Hard-running striker who
the Ligue 1 runners-up, international who played AFCON finals in January World Cup qualifiers or this of PSV who moved to hit 18 goals in Turkey last
the French-born Harit a major part in the World and has kept his place year’s AFCON finals after Ligue 1 at the start of season after moving from
made a return to the Cup qualifying campaign since, scoring twice in the a stand-off with previous this season and wasted Moroccan champions Wydad.
Morocco squad in June and was a regular at 4-1 win over DR Congo coach Vahid Halilhodzic. no time in making a His place could be under
after 18 months in the Cup of Nations that booked Morocco’s A mercurial talent with positive impression threat to Ryan Mmaee
the wilderness. finals in January. World Cup berth. a wand of a left foot. for Les Violets. or Walid Cheddira.
49 11
14 2
ALSO IN CONTENTION
GOALKEEPERS Ahmed Reda TAGNAOUTI (Wydad Casablanca)
DEFENDERS Badr BENOUN (Qatar SC, Qat), Soufiane CHAKLA (OH Leuven, Bel), Mohamed CHIBI
Youssef EN-NESYRI MUNIR El Haddadi (Pyramids, Egy), Souffian EL KAROUANI (NEC, Ned), Hamza EL MOUSSAOUI (RS Berkane),
Sevilla (Spa) Getafe (Spa) Adam MASINA (Udinese, Ita) – injured, Fahd MOUFI (Portimonense, Por)
Age 25 (01.06.97) Age 27 (01.09.95)
Moved to Spain in 2015 Ex-Spain international who MIDFIELDERS Younes BELHANDA (Adana Demirspor, Tur), Faycal FAJR (Al Wehda, KSA), Yahya JABRANE
and has been a regular Morocco tried hard to get (Wydad Casablanca), Abdelhamid SABIRI (Sampdoria, Ita), Adel TAARABT (Al Nasr, UAE)
since for Malaga, Leganes into their squad for the last
and Sevilla, scoring over World Cup, and eventually FORWARDS Achraf BENCHARKI (Al Jazira, UAE), Walid CHEDDIRA (Bari, Ita), Ryan MMAEE
40 goals in La Liga. He got FIFA to change their (Ferencvaros, Hun), Soufiane RAHIMI (Al Ain, UAE), Tarik TISSOUDALI (Gent, Bel) – injured
is fancied to lead the eligibility rules so that he
Moroccan attack. could play for them.

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> NETHERLANDS
Louis’ last hurrah

Louis van Gaal prepares for his second World Cup
in his third spell in charge of the Netherlands
t’s the biggest platform but Louis
I van Gaal would have preferred

a different setting for his farewell
tour. The 71-year-old coach has
been a fierce critic of hosting the World
Cup in Qatar, and wore his heart on his
sleeve when asked for his opinion on the
subject earlier this year. “It is ridiculous.
We are playing in a country where FIFA
says they want to help develop football.
That is bulls**t. But it doesn’t matter.
The tournament in Qatar is about
money and commercial interest. Third place...
That is what matters to FIFA.” LVG guided the
Netherlands
Having said that, there are many other to the 2014
reasons – apart from the commercial semi-finals
aspects and, of course, the human rights
conditions – as to why staging a World
Cup in Qatar has proven so controversial. Gaal simply can’t afford to leave them
And those concern the heat, the date at home and must turn a blind eye to
in the middle of the season, and the his own philosophy, although he did
very limited preparation time. give Georginio Wijnaldum a warning to
It all means that the former get more playing time. The midfielder
Champions League winner has had to promptly traded Paris Saint-Germain for
switch to a different approach than he Roma, only to break his shinbone and
is used to. Van Gaal is the type of coach leave his World Cup hopes in jeopardy.
to grind the tactics into his team and Despite the setbacks, the draw has
therefore he needs time. But time isn’t been kind to Oranje – providing they don’t
on his side for this unique tournament. make the same mistake against Senegal
Another aspect of Van Gaal’s methods in their opener as France did in 2002
has been rendered totally useless. In his – and Van Gaal has vast experience to
philosophy, fitness and rhythm are main repeat his success at the 2014 World
ingredients to build a successful team. Cup when the Dutch finished third.
Several times in the past he has opted Considering he is suffering from
for surprise inclusions instead of pickingprostate cancer, a similar result would
be an appropriate
last hurrah for the
Van Gaal is the type of coach to grind man who has
the tactics into his team and therefore made a massive
he needs time. But time isn’t on his impact on Dutch
football and beyond.
side for this unique tournament Klaas-Jan
Droppert
household names who gained limited
playing time at their clubs. However,
looking at the state of his squad that is LOUIS VAN GAAL tournament and the shape of the day will
also play a role. I think the Netherlands are
a problem. Memphis Depay and Frenkie one of the contenders, an outsider, but
de Jong are simply irreplacable as there What are the Netherlands’ chances I do not count ourselves as a favourite.
are no suitable alternatives. Yet their at the World Cup in Qatar?
I believe we can go far. Not the best players, Who are the main players of your team?
playing time at Barcelona has been
but the best team becomes world champion. For me, the strength of the team counts.
restricted. Both stayed despite being We have to make sure we are the best team It makes no sense to name names because
heavily linked with summer transfers, when the time comes. And you need a little the players can’t live without each other.
and they risk being out of form and luck, of course. Although I always do my best We have to do it together. As I’ve said,
lacking match practice when the to rule out “chance” as much as possible, the best team will soon become the
you should be prepared for all scenarios. world champion, not the best players.
World Cup kicks off. On the domestic
scene there is the same problem. Are the Netherlands one of the favourites? You play with the Netherlands in a 3-5-2
Davy Klaassen, crucial in Van Gaal’s You can’t call us a favourite. But if we play system. Are you repeating the successful
team, is now only a reserve at Ajax. as a team, we have a chance. It remains a formula of the 2014 World Cup?
Despite their difficult situation, Van

Dutch captain...
Virgil van Dijk
Now we play a 3-4-1-2. Although the systems the World Cup to Qatar has been made on heard, but it is up to the directors
are similar, the implementation is different. grounds that are not correct. FIFA pretends to ensure that changes are made.
In 2014, we had Arjen Robben and Robin van football development is the main reason
Persie in our selection. They were, of course, when it’s all about money and commercial Is there a chance that you will still be
world-class strikers. Then we tried for our interests. That’s what it was all about. Of Back on the big active as a trainer after the World Cup?
defence, made up of very young players, course, like any sane person, we are against stage...Dutch No. I was, of course, already retired when
to be as solid as possible, so that those the violation of human rights. The KNVB celebrations the KNVB called me for this job. Everyone
two up front could show their class. Now has always been critical of the World who knows me knows that it
our defenders are significantly older and Cup in Qatar and the role FIFA have is a huge honour for me to
the focus is more on the front line. That’s in it. That position is well known. We be the coach of my country.
why I prefer to call it a 3-4-1-2 system. look critically at the tournament and But now I’m 71, and after
also try to look beyond football. this World Cup it will have
What do you think about this year’s Our FA is one of the most involved really been enough. Although…
World Cup being hosted in Qatar? in this. But I do think you should never say never, that should
I’ve said something about that a number of let footballers play football. Our be clear by now.
times before. I have said that the award of players have made themselves Samindra Kunti

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> NETHERLANDS
TACTICS SCHEDULE
PRE-WORLD CUP
Returning to three at the back Sep 22
2-0 v Poland
(Warsaw)
Sep 25
early his entire coaching 1-0 v Belgium
N career Louis van Gaal has

opted for 4-3-3 but, just like
at the 2014 World Cup, he has
switched to 3-5-2 or 5-3-2. The reasons
are due to the lack of a right-winger to
(Amsterdam)
play three up front and to help stabilise

the defence. It also gives star striker Match winner...
Memphis Depay the chance to wander. Van Dijk scores
the winning goal
His goalkeeper will be a last-minute against Belgium
pick. Justin Bijlow was the incumbent but
he was snubbed in September and there GROUP GAMES
remains doubts over his injury proneness Nov 21
v Senegal
and form. LVG is a fan of Mark Flekken’s (Doha)
footballing qualities but Jasper Cillessen Nov 25
and Remko Pasveer seem a safer pair v Ecuador
of hands. Andries Noppert could be the (Al Rayyan)
wild card “penalty killer” after Tim Krul was Nov 29
v Qatar
axed by Van Gaal following reports that (Al Khor)
he refused to take part in penalty training.
At the back, Jurrien Timber and Nathan
Ake appear to have won the battle to play
either side of Virgil van Dijk because they
are more aggressive and press opponents,
whereas Stefan de Vrij and Matthijs de
Blind
Ligt prefer to defend zonally.
In midfield Steven Berghuis, Frenkie de Star striker... Ake Depay
Jong and Davy Klaassen are the preferred Memphis Depay
picks, but the latter two started the season F. De Jong
on the bench for their clubs meaning it
is possible that Teun Koopmeiners plays
in the double pivot instead, while Cody Pasveer Van Dijk Klaassen
Gakpo comes into consideration for the
more advanced role behind the strikers. Berghuis
Georginio Wijnaldum, captain at Euro
2020, looks likely to miss the finals. Timber Bergwijn
Up front, targetmen Luuk de Jong,
Wout Weghorst and Vincent Janssen Dumfries
give Van Gaal the opportunity to play
with a focal point in attack or to switch
to a 4-3-3 formation if necessary.
THE VIEW FROM NETHERLANDS COACH

“Senegal are strong but Ecuador and Louis VAN GAAL
Tried and
hosts Qatar shouldn’t be a problem. If trusted... Age 71 (08.08.51)
Netherlands and England win their group Van Gaal Appointed August 2021
they avoid each other. The disadvantage is
to start the tournament immediately. On Following a disappointing Euro 2020
the other hand, Group A has a favourable campaign under former coach Frank de
playing scheme in terms of rest days.” Boer, the Dutch FA turned to the only
Maarten Wijffels, sports journalist, man they trusted to steady the ship:
Algemeen Dagblad Louis van Gaal. He is now in his third
term as Oranje head coach – following
“To stand a chance you need a good previous spells in charge in 2000-02
goalkeeper, which we don’t have. Van and 2012-14 – and after guiding the
Dijk, Frenkie de Jong, De Vrij and Depay team through qualification for Qatar
should rise above themselves. And the he will finish the job at the World Cup,
others, players like Koopmeiners, should despite this year revealing he is suffering
be performing at their very best. Only from prostate cancer. It has already
then is something possible.” been announced that Ronald Koeman
Rene van der Gijp, former international will succeed him after the tournament.

63 4 2 29 94 38
0 0 0 3 2 2
Jasper CILLESSEN Mark FLEKKEN Remko PASVEER Nathan AKE Daley BLIND Matthijs DE LIGT
NEC Nijmegen Freiburg (Ger) Ajax Manchester City (Eng) Ajax Bayern Munich (Ger)
GOALKEEPERS
DEFENDERS
Returned to his hometown Dubbed by the coach as a Became the national team’s Centre-back or left-back. Left-back or left-sided Regarded as one of
club NEC from Spain after “Van Gaal goalkeeper” due second-oldest debutant at Played just one minute centre-back and the son Europe’s most talented
consulting with Van Gaal. to his footballing qualities. the age of 38. Will be a in qualifying, but now of ex-international Danny. defenders. Strong in the
Missed Euro 2020 due to Hasn’t entirely convinced loyal reserve goalkeeper a likely starter after the Gets his fair share of critics air and commanding, but
COVID, but was No.1 at with his hands and his if not the first choice, switch to a back five and for his lack of pace, but the often plays as a left-sided
Oranje’s last World Cup place could be vulnerable which is an important impressing in the UEFA ex-Manchester United man’s central defender which
appearance in 2014. to a penalty specialist. issue for Van Gaal. Nations League games. passing is outstanding. is not his strength.
59 37 6 1 10 49
3 5 0 0 0 6
Stefan DE VRIJ Denzel DUMFRIES Tyrell MALACIA Devyne RENSCH Jurrien TIMBER Virgil VAN DIJK
Internazionale (Ita) Internazionale (Ita) Manchester United (Eng) Ajax Ajax Liverpool (Eng)
One of Serie A’s best Unstoppable when charging Left-back who was on his Likely to get his chance Talented defender who Captain and commanding
defenders who always down the right flank. Oranje’s way to Lyon in the summer due to a lack of right-back came through Ajax’s youth defender who is the team’s
does what he does best: best player at Euro 2020 before Manchester United alternatives for Dumfries, ranks. Has impressed Van leader. Missed Euro 2020
marking. Worked with Van and is continuing his good arrived on the scene. despite not having his best Gaal with his forechecking with an ACL injury that
Gaal at the 2014 World displays at club level. Played A tenacious, upcoming season. Like the Inter ace he skills in marking opponents kept him out of action for
Cup. Off the pitch, he is a twice for Aruba before defender with stamina is upcoming and better at higher up the pitch. His twin nine months. Set to win
very good piano player. opting for the Dutch. and good positional play. attacking than defending. Quinten plays for Feyenoord. his 50th cap in Qatar.
39 45 30 11 35 10
2 1 0 1 9 1
Steven BERGHUIS Frenkie DE JONG Marten DE ROON Ryan GRAVENBERCH Davy KLAASSEN Teun KOOPMEINERS
Ajax Barcelona (Spa) Atalanta (Ita) Bayern Munich (Ger) Ajax Atalanta (Ita)
MIDFIELDERS
Made the next grade Creative lynchpin and Unsung midfielder who is Rangy midfielder with A reserve role at Ajax could Midfielder, penalty expert
after his controversial irreplacable for Oranje as tactically strong, but often enormous potential. However, harm his chances. However, and a fine passer with a
switch from Feyenoord to part of a midfield double criticised for his minor he has the image of being he is a scorer of vital goals, great mentality. However,
Ajax. Can play as a winger pivot. Got stuck between technical abilities. Was too laid-back and may have is an astute midfielder and he lacks pace and is a little
or an attacking midfielder. a rock and a hard place at a vital cog for Van Gaal’s moved abroad too soon. Was has a good connection with cautious in his play. Was
His father Frank was a Barca, but Van Gaal can’t pedecessors Frank de Boer back down playing for the Depay. More important for a non-playing squad
one-time international. afford to leave him behind. and Ronald Koeman. Under-21s earlier this year. his country than his club. member at Euro 2020.
2 24 0 38 81 9
0 7 0 8 42 3
Kenneth TAYLOR Steven BERGWIJN Brian BROBBEY Luuk DE JONG Memphis DEPAY Cody GAKPO
Ajax Ajax Ajax PSV Barcelona (Spa) PSV
FORWARDS
Rushed into the first Performs better for Promoted from the U21s in Swiss-born super sub who Needs nine goals to surpass PSV captain, nominally a
team this season at Ajax, country than club, as September and although played a big part in Sevilla’s Robin van Persie as Oranje’s winger but versatile enough
leaving Davy Klaassen on Tottenham Hotspur uncapped, Van Gaal has 2020 Europa League win. record scorer. Eccentric and to play off the strikers. Must
the bench. Provides the discovered. Has played high expectations as he Didn’t get much playing often misunderstood but he shrug off his modesty when
balance in the team. A good a crucial role in recent regards him as a Depay time at Barca so returned remains Netherlands’ only in the national team because
reader of the game and can matches and is Depay’s alternative. One of four to PSV. Faces competition top-class striker. Also in a he has incredible potential.
score with either foot. best partner up front. footballing brothers. from Weghorst and Janssen. difficult situation at Barca. Set for a big World Cup.
20 15
7 3
ALSO IN CONTENTION
GOALKEEPERS Justin BIJLOW (Feyenoord), Andries NOPPERT (Heerenveen)
DEFENDERS Sven BOTMAN (Newcastle United, Eng), Jeremie FRIMPONG (Bayer Leverkusen, Ger),
Vincent JANSSEN Wout WEGHORST Hans HATEBOER (Atalanta, Ita), Rick KARSDORP (Roma, Ita), Bruno MARTINS INDI (AZ),
Antwerp (Bel) Besiktas (Tur) Pascal STRUIJK (Leeds United, Eng), Jordan TEZE (PSV), Owen WIJNDAL (Ajax)
Age 28 (15.06.94) Age 30 (07.08.92)
His inclusion after nearly A passionate, workhorse MIDFIELDERS Jordy CLASIE (AZ), Jerdy SCHOUTEN (Bologna, Ita), Xavi SIMONS (PSV), Guus TIL (PSV),
five years raised eyebrows, striker. If Van Gaal drops Donny VAN DE BEEK (Manchester United, Eng), Joey VEERMAN (PSV), Georginio WIJNALDUM (Roma, Ita)
especially after only scoring one of his three targetmen,
three goals for Monterrey. Weghorst’s place could be FORWARDS Arnaut DANJUMA (Villarreal, Spa), Noa LANG (Club Brugge, Bel),
However, he gives Van Gaal at risk to an attacker with Donyell MALEN (Borussia Dortmund, Ger)
the opportunity to play a a different profile or an
different tactic up front. additional midfielder.

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> POLAND
A bumpy road
Poland have already completed a remarkable
journey by qualifying amid off-field turbulence
oland’s route to Qatar was
P more extraordinary than

most, with their qualification
campaign defined by three
unexpected twists.
In the group stage, they finished
Talisman...
Lewandowski
scores against
Sweden in the
play-off final
second in Group I behind England,

holding Gareth Southgate’s men to
a 1-1 draw in Warsaw. Ahead of their
final match of the campaign, they only
needed a point to be seeded for the
play-offs, yet manager Paulo Sousa
inexplicably chose to rest a number
of key players – Robert Lewandowski,
Kamil Glik and Piotr Zielinski – and was
subsequently punished by a 2-1 defeat
to Hungary, relegating the team to the
unseeded half of the draw and a meeting
with Group H runners-up Russia. as what to do with players short of
It was a mistake that neither Sousa minutes with their clubs, and how to
nor his team would ultimately pay for. maximise the talents of captain and
Firstly because, in the second twist of talisman Lewandowski, in what will
the campaign, the Portuguese coach surely be his final World Cup. The
terminated his contract in December fact that the 34-year-old has settled
in so seamlessly at Barcelona, and
last year in order to join Brazilian giants
Flamengo (a job which, incidentally, will arrive in Qatar in top form, is
lasted a little over five months). He wasparticularly helpful.
replaced by Czeslaw Michniewicz, the Despite his many goalscoring records,
former coach of Poland’s Under-21s Lewandowski is yet to truly deliver at a
and Legia Warsaw. major tournament. The Polish fans and
The third, and most dramatic, twist media have often held high expectations
came with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine for him and the team, yet he has only
just a month before their play-off semi- helped guide them out of the group
final was due to take place. Cezary stage of a major tournament once, at
Kulesza, chairman of the Polish FA, Euro 2016, while Poland’s last World
Cup knockout
match was in 1986.
Having originally offered to move Repeating that is
the fixture from Moscow to a neutral the goal in Qatar.
venue, FIFA expelled the Russians, Anything beyond
will be seen as
granting Poland a bye to the final a bonus.
Dariusz Kurowski
together with the players, declared that
they would not be involved in a match
with the “aggressors”. Having originally CZESLAW MICHNIEWICZ A team is not born after a series of victories,
but when it cries together in the dressing
offered to move the fixture from room – as after the match in Belgium. Such
Moscow to a neutral venue, FIFA How big a moment was defeating Sweden results leave a mark on the memory, but
expelled the Russians, granting Poland 2-0 in the play-offs to qualify for Qatar? you can build on it, you just have to draw
There were a lot of emotions. The importance the right conclusions. I said once before
a bye to the final against Sweden.
of the game, the background and the fact that defeat is worse than death because
In only Michniewicz’s second game that we had achieved our goal influenced you have to wake up after it. However, we
in charge – the first an unconvincing me, and I was touched. It wasn’t just my managed to wake up and even get off our
1-1 draw with Scotland – goals from game against Sweden. It was all of Poland knees, playing a good next game to draw
Lewandowski and Zielinski secured a that wanted to win this one. The tension 2-2 with the Netherlands in Rotterdam.
spread among 38 million Poles. I kept on
2-0 win and a place in Qatar. A bumpy
telling the players to focus on the game. Do you believe there is a need to be
road had, at last, taken the team to its flexible with Poland’s tactical systems?
destination. Then, in contrast, came the 6-1 defeat We want to modify our tactics depending on
Now, the new manager faces more to Belgium in the UEFA Nations League. the result of the games and be able to adapt.
typical problems and questions, such

A bumpy road...
Poland’s players
were united during
a tricky campaign
We can play in different systems, changing become one of Poland’s key players himself. Wojciech is always very focused,
them smoothly during the game. A lot on this year. What is your opinion of him? and he always gives the team a lot in
the pitch depends on the reaction. In this I am glad that Wojciech helps us a lot in key terms of atmosphere.
respect football is similar to tennis: defending moments. This was the case in the play-off
and attacking. So players need to know how game against Sweden, and it was also the What is the most effective role for
to play in specific phases of the game. case in Cardiff in the Nations League. It is Key player... Robert Lewandowski in the team?
no coincidence that he plays for a club such Wojciech Szczesny There is no point in discussing whether
And what about player selection? as Juventus. He is a goalkeeper Robert needs to have a second
We have to consider a wide range and watch from the world’s top tier. He striker next to him. After all, at
a lot of players. I would like the frame of the had his problems, many people Bayern and Barcelona he has
team to remain unchanged, because these suggested to make a change in played as the only striker and
players give the team character. However, our goal, but we did not succumb scored hundreds of goals. We
I do not close the door to anyone, anyone to this pressure. The fact that he just have to take care of the
can jump into the squad and play in it. sometimes misses a few games appropriate “service”. The key
at his club does not mean that question is who and how they
Goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny has he is no longer able to defend are playing next to him.

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> POLAND
TACTICS SCHEDULE
PRE-WORLD CUP
‘We must have alternatives’ Sep 22
0-2 v Netherlands
(Warsaw)
Sep 25
zeslaw Michniewicz likes to 1-0 v Wales
C use a variety of systems, both

at the start and during the
course of matches. In his first
three games in charge, he began with
3-4-3, 4-2-3-1 and 4-3-1-2, while at
(Cardiff)
Nov 16 v Chile
(Warsaw)
various times also switching to 4-4-2

or 4-4-1-1. His explanation? “We must
have alternatives”.
Warm-up...
Described as “a specialist for special Karol Swiderski
tasks”, Poland’s coach likes to adapt his scores against Wales
approach depending on the opponent,
with tactical flexibility being the key to GROUP GAMES
Nov 22
nullifying potentially stronger rivals. As a
v Mexico
result, his team don’t play dazzling football (Doha)
but it is effective. In the play-off against Nov 26
Sweden, for example, they ceded over v Saudi Arabia
60% possession to the visitors, before (Al Rayyan)
Nov 30
picking them off on the counter attack.
v Argentina
The team is built from the back and, (Doha)
whether it is a three-man or four-man
defence, right wing-back Matty Cash is a
key attacking outlet. When in possession,
he springs forward to essentially become
a winger, while the left-footed Sebastian
Zalewski
Szymanski cuts inside ahead of him.
The team’s spine is composed of a Attacking outlet Kiwior Zielinski
highly-experienced core – Szczesny, Glik, ...Matty Cash
Krychowiak, Zielinski and Lewandowski,
with the captain obviously the key. As Bielik
well as his elite finishing ability, he also
drops deep to help link attacks. Szczesny Glik Lewandowski
Krychowiak
Bednarek S. Szymanski
Cash
Experienced core...
Krychowiak and
Lewandowski
THE VIEW FROM POLAND COACH

“The minimum aim is to qualify from the Czeslaw MICHNIEWICZ
Newcomer...
group. The last time Poland did that, at Czeslaw Age 52 (12.02.70)
Euro 2016 when reaching the quarter- Michniewicz Appointed January 2022
finals, it was considered a great success.
Because we have Lewandowski and a few As a player, Czeslaw Michniewicz was
players at strong clubs, the expectations a goalkeeper who won two Polish Cups
have been higher than the results the (1999, 2000) and the Polish Super Cup
team has achieved for years.” (1999) with Amica Wronki. As a coach,
Wladyslaw Zmuda, former international he then repeated the feat, winning the
Polish Cup and Polish Super Cup with
“Poland have Robert Lewandowski Lech Poznan (2004). But it is his title
and a coach who is considered to be victories with Zaglebie Lubin (2006-07)
a lucky man. This, however, may not and Legia Warsaw (2020-21), along
be enough to implement the minimum with his achievements in qualifying
plan – getting to the knockout phase, Poland’s Under-21 side for the 2019
which has not been achieved at the European Championship and the senior
World Cup since 1986.” side for Qatar 2022, that remain his
Tomasz Lipinski, Canal+Poland biggest managerial feats to date.

2 7 66 44 45 7
0 0 0 1 0 1
Bartlomiej DRAGOWSKI Lukasz SKORUPSKI Wojciech SZCZESNY Jan BEDNAREK Bartosz BERESZYNSKI Matty CASH
Spezia (Ita) Bologna (Ita) Juventus (Ita) Aston Villa (Eng) Sampdoria (Ita) Aston Villa (Eng)
GOALKEEPERS
DEFENDERS
Grew up in Jagiellonia Moved to Roma from Joined Arsenal as a Physically strong centre- Versatile right-back who Speedy right-back born in
Bialystok and made Gornik Zabrze in 2013, but teenager before moving to back and a product of is successfully used by England, but who qualifies
his league debut as a showed his potential on Juve in 2017 via a two-year Lech Poznan’s academy. Poland as an auxiliary for Poland through his
16-year-old. Now in his loan at Empoli and has loan at Roma. Played at A fixture in the back line left-back when reverting mother. Received Polish
seventh season in Italy been at Bologna since the Euros in 2012, 2016 alongside Kamil Glik in to a back four. Has settled citizenship last year and
after playing for Spezia, 2018. Poland’s third-choice and 2020, and at the the Nations League and well in Italy since joining made his debut in the
Fiorentina and Empoli. goalkeeper at Euro 2020. 2018 World Cup. during qualification. Sampdoria in 2017. World Cup qualifiers.
8 98 4 4 15 1
0 6 0 0 0 0
Pawel DAWIDOWICZ Kamil GLIK Robert GUMNY Jakub KIWIOR Arkadiusz RECA Mateusz WIETESKA
Hellas Verona (Ita) Benevento (Ita) Augsburg (Ger) Spezia (Ita) Spezia (Ita) Clermont (Fra)
Centre-back who moved Experienced centre-back One of several Lech Began his senior career in Fast left-back who can also Centre-back who made
from Lechia Gdansk to and vice-captain. After Poznan academy graduates Slovakia with Zeleziarne play as a left-winger. Likely his national team debut
Benfica in 2014, but only making his name with Torino, in the current national Podbrezova and Zilina. to make the cut ahead of against Belgium in June,
played for the reserves. he won the French title with team set-up. Looks to be Made his Poland debut Tymoteusz Puchacz, and a month later moved
Won his first cap in 2015 Monaco in 2017. Played in a straight battle with against Netherlands in June especially with Maciej from Legia Warsaw to
but waited over five years more minutes in qualifying Tomasz Kedziora for the and already looks to have Rybus banished from France. Likely to only
before playing again. than any Poland defender. reserve right-back spot. forced his way into the XI. national team selection. be a reserve in Qatar.
5 25 21 86 41 93
0 1 1 17 2 5
Krystian BIELIK Przemyslaw FRANKOWSKI Jacek GORALSKI Kamil GROSICKI Mateusz KLICH Grzegorz KRYCHOWIAK
Birmingham City (Eng) Lens (Fra) Bochum (Ger) Pogon Szczecin Leeds United (Eng) Al Shabab (KSA)
MIDFIELDERS
Moved from Legia Warsaw Played for Lechia Gdansk, Extremely uncompromising Experienced winger Versatile midfielder who Highly-experienced
to Arsenal at 17, but did Jagiellonia Bialystok and defensive midfielder, pitbull- who played in Turkey, works hard from one defensive midfielder who
not play in the Premier Chicago Fire in MLS before like, who often gets booked. France and England before penalty box to the other made his debut in 2008.
League. Two bad knee joining Lens in 2021. The Now looks to be ahead of returning to his first club and creates chances with Won the Europa League with
injuries have prevented right-winger has featured Karol Linetty, who featured Pogon Szczecin last year. his precise passes. Not Sevilla in 2015 and 2016,
him from establishing regularly over the past 18 more in qualifying, in the Used exclusively as a playing as regularly at and now in Saudi Arabia
himself for Poland. months as a starter or sub. midfield pecking order. substitute these days. Leeds under Jesse Marsch. on loan from Krasnodar.
17 7 74 6 134 63
1 0 9 0 76 16
Sebastian SZYMANSKI Nicola ZALEWSKI Piotr ZIELINSKI Szymon ZURKOWSKI Robert LEWANDOWSKI Arkadiusz MILIK
Feyenoord (Ned) Roma (Ita) Napoli (Ita) Fiorentina (Ita) Barcelona (Spa) Juventus (Ita)
FORWARDS
An attacking midfielder Born in Italy to Polish Skilful playmaker with great Hard-working midfielder, National team captain Left-footed forward who
with good technical skills emigrants. Made his Poland vision, who is still to show sold by Gornik Zabrze to and scoring machine, made his name with Ajax,
and vision. Back in the debut against San Marino his best form for Poland. Fiorentina in 2019 via an who can finish equally then with Napoli, Juventus
picture under Michniewicz, in September 2021 under Has played his entire pro extended loan at Empoli. well with either foot or and Marseille. Withdrew
whom he worked with in Paulo Sousa, but has become career in Italy, moving to Another Michniewicz pick his head. Poland’s record from Poland’s Euro 2020
the Under-21s. Made his a regular on the left wing Udinese as a teenager. having worked together goalscorer and all-time squad with a knee injury
name with Legia Warsaw. under Michniewicz. With Napoli since 2016. with the Under-21 side. top appearance maker. so has a point to prove.
24 17
10 8
ALSO IN CONTENTION
GOALKEEPERS Rafal GIKIEWICZ (Augsburg, Ger), Kamil GRABARA

(FC Copenhagen, Den), Radoslaw MAJECKI (Cercle Brugge, Bel)
Krzysztof PIATEK Karol SWIDERSKI DEFENDERS Pawel BOCHNIEWICZ (Heerenveen, Ned), Michal HELIK (Huddersfield Town, Eng),
Artur JEDRZEJCZYK (Legia Warsaw), Marcin KAMINSKI (Schalke, Ger), Tomasz KEDZIORA
Salernitana (Ita) Charlotte (USA) (Dynamo Kyiv, Ukr), Kamil PESTKA (Cracovia) – injured, Tymoteusz PUCHACZ (Union Berlin, Ger),
Age 27 (01.07.95) Age 25 (23.01.97) Bartosz SALAMON (Lech Poznan) – injured, Sebastian WALUKIEWICZ (Empoli, Ita)
Typical finisher who was Centre-forward who made
prolific for Cracovia and his name with Jagiellonia MIDFIELDERS Jakub KAMINSKI (Wolfsburg, Ger), Kacper KOZLOWSKI (Vitesse, Ned), Mateusz LEGOWSKI (Pogon
Genoa before a big move to Bialystok before joining Szczecin), Karol LINETTY (Torino, Ita), Jakub MODER (Brighton, Eng) – injured, Jakub PIOTROWSKI (Ludogorets, Bul),
Milan. His career tailed off PAOK in 2019. Moved to Przemyslaw PLACHETA (Birmingham City, Eng), Michal SKORAS (Lech Poznan), Damian SZYMANSKI (AEK Athens, Gre)
thereafter, moving to Hertha MLS in January and is
Berlin to rebuild, and is now deemed “untouchable” FORWARDS Adam BUKSA (Lens, Fra), Dawid KOWNACKI (Fortuna Dusseldorf, Ger)
back in Italy on loan. by his new club.

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> PORTUGAL
Striking a balance
Portugal have talent in abundance but can
coach Fernando Santos find the right mix?
ortugal have underachieved
P in recent tournaments and a

turgid team struggled through
World Cup qualifying, eventually
overcoming Turkey and North Macedonia
in the play-offs. For years they have had
Final World Cup...
Cristiano Ronaldo
an outrageously rich talent pool to pick

from, but the wealth of superstar players
at the nation’s disposal has not resulted
in the frighteningly dangerous, exciting
and powerful team that Selecao fans
believe it should have. As a result, coach
Fernando Santos is increasingly viewed
as an outdated manager on borrowed
time. That’s the bad news. However, a
cursory look at a squad bursting at the
seams with mesmeric talents, and it is
difficult to shake the idea that Portugal
could cause a surprise in Qatar. understanding among Nuno Mendes,
Manchester City trio Bernardo Silva, Danilo, Vitinha and Renato Sanches
Joao Cancelo and Ruben Dias comprise could be a boost for the team.
an integral hub of the most consistently Should Santos transpose this ready-
excellent club team in world football, made chemistry to the international
Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Jota arena with success, it will significantly
continue to shine intensely in England, boost Portugal’s chances of having
and young stars Nuno Mendes, Joao a good World Cup.
Felix and Rafael Leao are vital cogs Long gone are the days when
at Paris Saint-Germain, Atletico Portugal were Cristiano Ronaldo
Madrid and Milan respectively. and ten others. Nevertheless, the
Santos has all but exhausted the 37-year-old remains Portugal’s most
credit in the bank from winning the reliable source of goals. Exactly what
European Championship in 2016, effect a lack of significant playing time
but the veteran coach could yet be at club level will have on Ronaldo’s
helped out by club football. He has performances in Qatar will be both
often emphasised the importance fascinating to observe and critical to the
Selecao’s chances.
Exhaustion will
Exactly what effect a lack of not be an issue,
significant playing time at club level but will a lack of
will have on Ronaldo’s performance in sharpness and
match fitness
Qatar will be fascinating to observe be a problem?
Tom Kundert
of team chemistry garnered from
having several players who are club
team-mates playing together in the FERNANDO SANTOS important things to contribute to this team.
I hope he is well physically for the World Cup.
national team.
And when Portugal put in two of their How do you maximise Portugal’s talent? Are Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva
brightest displays in Santos’ eight-year Having a lot of talent helps, but talent alone is compatible in the same starting XI?
not enough. The secret is to put talent at the I have played the pair in the same team
reign by beating Switzerland and the
service of the team and impose our game, not many times. The team dynamics make the
Czech Republic in June’s UEFA Nations letting the opponent overwhelm us. All the difference and they are two players who
League encounters, City duo Bernardo great teams combine talent with organisation can play in different systems and models
Silva and Joao Cancelo combined to and commitment. That’s what we try to do. because, in addition to having huge
devastating effect. The Wolverhampton talent, they are very good tactically.
Should Cristiano Ronaldo still be
Wanderers connection could also come
front and centre of your team? What are your thoughts on Group H?
to the fore, with Ruben Neves, Matheus Ronaldo is important for our team. Everyone It is a tough group, with strong opponents.
Nunes and Joao Moutinho hardwired knows – he, himself as well – that he is no Uruguay eliminated us from the 2018 World
to feed Goncalo Guedes and Pedro longer 20 years old, but he still has several Cup and have a lot of talent and intensity.
Neto. At Paris Saint-Germain, the

Talent in abundance...
Portugal are blessed
with plenty of stars
South Korea are one of the heavyweights of having a surprise team from another You’ve been in charge of Portugal since
of Asian football and they have a very good continent that could break the stranglehold. 2014. Does that longevity at the helm
Portuguese coach, Paulo Bento, who knows hand you an advantage as a coach?
our team extremely well. The first game This winter World Cup will have almost There is stability, but things evolve so that
against Ghana is very important because no preparation time but players in peak Euros winner... we never stagnate. We play very differently
starting the World Cup well is essential. condition. How will you approach this? Santos holds the to when we won Euro 2016. In fact, we
All teams will face the same conditions but Euro 2016 trophy played differently in the Nations League
What should Portugal’s goal be? this is undoubtedly a new factor and and won again. Every tournament has
Despite the difficulties that our opponents we will have to handle that – from a different story. We have adapted,
will pose us, we clearly go to this World the call-up to the short preparation, focusing on young players and
Cup with the ambition to win it. to our training programme and the keeping others. We are always looking
way the players will be at that time. to improve and evolve as a team. Every
Can any nation break Europe’s dominance? We will have to take into account game, every tournament is a different
Yes. The South Americans, for example, are these new factors in the preparation challenge. Only one thing does not
very strong, with Brazil and Argentina among for this World Cup, but I am very change – the aim of winning.
the favourites without excluding the possibility optimistic about our performance. Samindra Kunti

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> PORTUGAL
TACTICS SCHEDULE
PRE-WORLD CUP
Decision time Sep 24
4-0 v Czech Rep
(Prague)
Sep 27
ernando Santos has fielded 0-1 v Spain
F 4-4-2, 4-3-3 and 4-2-3-1

formations and has the personnel
to opt for either system and/or
switch mid-game. The latter two allows
one of Portugal’s speedy wide forwards,
(Braga)
Nov 17 v Nigeria
(Lisbon)
such as Rafael Leao or Goncalo Guedes,

to be selected, or alternatively enables
Joao Felix to be picked in the XI.
Victory...Ruben Dias
However, Santos has often favoured a and Diogo Jota v
4-4-2 or 4-2-3-1, with Cristiano Ronaldo Czech Republic
and Diogo Jota the most advanced players
and a double pivot of more defensively- GROUP GAMES
Nov 24
minded midfielders, albeit at least one of
v Ghana
whom has the capacity to launch attacks (Doha)
with a broad passing range, such as Ruben Nov 28
Neves or William Carvalho (or both). v Uruguay
An interesting tactical nuance was (Lusail)
Dec 2
thrown up in the UEFA Nations League
v South Korea
games. When Portugal played their best (Al Rayyan)
football, they had either Bernardo Silva
or Bruno Fernandes on the pitch, but
not both. It would be a brave decision for
Santos to bench one of his star midfielders,
but potentially a beneficial one in terms
Mendes
of achieving a more cohesive unit.
Competition for places is intense, Manchester United Jota
especially at left-back, central midfield duo...Cristiano
and out wide. Indeed, many talented Ronaldo and
Bruno Fernandes Pepe Carvalho
players may not even make the squad.
Costa Fernandes Ronaldo
Dias
Neves
B. Silva
Cancelo
Star player...
Bernardo Silva
THE VIEW FROM PORTUGAL COACH

“Fate dictated a re-encounter with Fernando SANTOS
Long-serving
South Korea in the final group game, ...Fernando Age 68 (10.10.54)
just like in 2002, in the only Asian Santos Appointed September 2014
World Cup to date and also the most
disappointing one in Portugal’s history. Portugal’s longest-serving and most
To avoid another flop, Fernando Santos successful manager will forever be
has to put his best team on the pitch remembered as the man who brought
regardless of names or status.” this football-adoring country its first
Rui Miguel Tovar, journalist and author major trophy, winning Euro 2016. But he
has been criticised by pundits and fans in
“Qatar marks the end of an era. Cristiano recent years with his overly conservative
Ronaldo will play his last World Cup and approach seen as being out of sync
the Fernando Santos cycle is coming to with Portugal’s plethora of outstanding
an end. It could be a sad goodbye or a offensive talent. But Santos retains the
boisterous changing of the guard, with full support of the Portuguese Football
Bernardo Silva orchestrating the show.” Federation and the players and, should
Luis Cristovao, radio and Portugal click in Qatar, he will make the
TV football journalist reverse journey from zero to hero.

7 104 0 37 0 6
0 0 0 7 0 2
Diogo COSTA Rui PATRICIO Jose SA Joao CANCELO David CARMO Diogo DALOT
Porto Roma (Ita) Wolves (Eng) Manchester City (Eng) Porto Manchester United (Eng)
GOALKEEPERS
DEFENDERS
Faultless when thrown No Portuguese keeper has Brilliant debut campaign Cruelly missed out Commanding displays Took his time to find his
into the World Cup won more caps than Patricio in the English Premier on Euro 2020 when for Braga earned Carmo feet at Old Trafford but
play-offs, the super- – indeed, he’s one of only League last season, Sa catching COVID-19, a switch to champions Porto is now fulfilling his early
reliable young Porto seven players to hit the stood out for more than Cancelo will want to for a record domestic transfer potential. Primarily a right-
shot-stopper will 100-cap milestone. Found his outrageous beard. Still make up for it in Qatar. fee. Still uncapped, but likely back but, like Cancelo, is
be Portugal’s No.1 a new lease of life in Italy uncapped despite a first A full-back with the to oust Jose Fonte for a versatile enough to play
for years to come. alongside Jose Mourinho. call-up back in 2017. qualities of a midfielder. centre-back squad spot. on the left if required.
63 39 56 16 128 75
2 2 3 0 7 5
DANILO Ruben DIAS Raphael GUERREIRO Nuno MENDES PEPE William CARVALHO
Paris Saint-Germain (Fra) Manchester City (Eng) Borussia Dortmund (Ger) Paris Saint-Germain (Fra) Porto Real Betis (Spa)
MIDFIELDERS
The experienced stopper Exceeded all expectations Offers plenty going Prodigious talent and title Displaying incredible Power and class,
is a big favourite of Santos. when switching from forward, the skilful winner in both Portugal and longevity, Pepe will turn the “Velvet Tank”
Nominally a midfielder, he Benfica to Manchester defender is in an intense France before turning 20, 40 shortly after the World is deceptively skilful
is now considered a centre- City, now a lock in Pep battle with Nuno Mendes to a superb full-back at both Cup but he continues to and has a wonderful
back for his country. Has Guardiola’s starting XI. A get the nod at left-back. ends of the pitch. Made his be a fierce competitor. The passing range. Another
been playing in a back mainstay in qualifying but First choice at Dortmund loan to PSG from Sporting Brazilian-born centre-back of coach Fernando
three for PSG this term. injured for the play-offs. for the past four seasons. permanent for £34m. made his debut in 2007. Santos’ favourites.
48 52 32 7 15 32
9 2 0 2 2 3
Bruno FERNANDES Joao MARIO Ruben NEVES OTAVIO Joao PALHINHA Renato SANCHES
Manchester United (Eng) Benfica Wolves (Eng) Porto Fulham (Eng) Paris Saint-Germain (Fra)
Worn Manchester United’s Smooth operator in A classy deep-lying Industrious, aggressive The aggressive all-action Powerful driving midfielder,
captaincy armband recently. midfield and long-time midfielder with a penchant and clever midfielder, the midfielder has taken to the Sanches was Portugal’s
Consistently brilliant at Santos favourite as one of for defence-splitting passes Brazilian-born Otavio injects English Premier League standout star at Euro 2016,
club level but has rarely the survivors from Euro 2016. and spectacular long-range energy into proceedings like a duck to water. A late winning Young Player of the
shone for Portugal. Brilliant early-season form goals. Likely to edge club every time he plays. A developer, he only made Tournament. Now shining in
Fernandes will want to for Benfica has got Mario team-mates Moutinho and standout player in Porto’s his senior Portugal France after a disappointing
put that right in Qatar. back in the picture. Nunes out of the squad. title win last season. debut last year. spell at Bayern Munich.
72 4 23 32 5 29
8 0 3 7 1 10
Bernardo SILVA VITINHA Joao FELIX Goncalo GUEDES Ricardo HORTA Diogo JOTA
Manchester City (Eng) Paris Saint-Germain (Fra) Atletico Madrid (Spa) Wolves (Eng) Braga Liverpool (Eng)
FORWARDS
Currently Portugal’s best Breakout season at Porto Supremely talented Explosive shooting and Braga’s record scorer, was Busy, energetic, direct
player, Silva has a dreamy earned Vitor Ferreira a forward, but injuries pace, Guedes has been expected to join Benfica this forward, Jota has slotted in
left foot, vision, goals and big-money move to Paris have held him back. in and out of the Portugal summer but Braga refused perfectly at Liverpool and
an incredible work rate. Saint-Germain, and he Unlocking the best of set-up but has contributed to lower the asking price for is the preferred partner
Only Cristiano Ronaldo has not looked out of Joao Felix could turn some crunch goals – like their talisman. Rafa Silva’s for Ronaldo. Slight in
played more during place alongside Mbappe, Portugal into genuine his winner in the inaugural shock retirement increases stature but has a knack
WC qualifying. Messi and Neymar. World Cup contenders. UEFA Nations League final. his World Cup chances. of scoring headers.
11 191
0 117
ALSO IN CONTENTION
GOALKEEPERS Anthony LOPES (Lyon, Fra), Rui SILVA (Real Betis, Spa)
DEFENDERS Tiago DJALO (Lille, Fra), Domingos DUARTE (Getafe, Spa), Jose FONTE (Lille, Fra),
Rafael LEAO Cristiano RONALDO Goncalo INACIO (Sporting), Mario RUI (Napoli, Ita), Nelson SEMEDO (Wolves, Eng)
Milan (Ita) Manchester United (Eng)
Age 23 (10.06.99) Age 37 (05.02.85) MIDFIELDERS Joao MOUTINHO (Wolves, Eng), Matheus NUNES (Wolves, Eng)
Despite an apparently Football’s greatest-ever
languid style of play, goalscorer, Cristiano FORWARDS Pedro GONCALVES (Sporting), Pedro NETO (Wolves, Eng) – injured,
Leao’s pace, skill and Ronaldo is playing his Goncalo RAMOS (Benfica), Andre SILVA (RB Leipzig, Ger), Francisco TRINCAO (Sporting)
power make him a potent tenth successive major
attacking weapon. Serie A tournament. Still the
MVP last season as Milan difference-maker for
won the league title. his national side.

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> QATAR
The hosts are ready

After 12 years of planning, host nation Qatar
are ready for their first-ever World Cup finals
welve years of preparation,
T and arguably more than that,

have led to this November.
Rarely has there been such
pressure or scrutiny on a host nation.
Off the pitch, there have been major
Asian champions
...Qatar players
lift the 2019
Asian Cup
concerns about workers’ rights, and

more besides, as new stadiums and
infrastructure were built. On it, it is
all about whether a tiny country that
has never appeared at the World Cup
before can avoid being only the second
host nation, after South Africa in 2010,
to fall at the first hurdle.
There are reasons to be confident.
The Maroon won the 2019 Asian Cup
in style, scoring 19 goals and conceding
just once, defeating giants such as
South Korea and Japan along the way,
and the fact that it came at the home
of rivals United Arab Emirates was
even more impressive. opening-game opponents Ecuador are
hardly veterans at this level either and
Desperate for competitive international
that match will likely prove to be crucial.
action in the build-up to the World Cup,
Win that and the second round is within
Qatar went to the 2019 Copa America
touching distance. Much will depend on
as well as the 2021 CONCACAF Gold
how the Qatari players, coach, media
Cup, when they won their group and
and fans handle all the attention
were denied a place in the final only
and pressure ahead of the
due to a 1-0 defeat against the United
tournament’s opening game.
States. Indeed, striker Almoez Ali has
Still, they should most certainly not
the distinction of being top scorer in
be underestimated. There is a strong
two continental tournaments – one
spine, a well-coached team and an
in Asia, one in North America. They
excellent build-up. Some of their
even participated in UEFA and Asian
opponents will arrive just days before
qualifying for their own World Cup.
kick-off in the middle of their domestic
Results in friendlies have been
seasons. The hosts will have had their
mixed but the team has travelled
national team players training together
the globe and played many games.
since June. The
Desperate for competitive international preparation that started
action in the build-up to the World 12 years ago
Cup…the team has travelled the is still going
globe and played many games strong.
John Duerden
Just like the South Korea team of

2002, the last time the tournament FELIX SANCHEZ to prepare for these three games in the best
way and try to be as competitive as we can.
came to Asia, there is a club-like
atmosphere among the national team.
What are your reflections on the draw How do you think your training camp
Many of the players came up through – Ecuador, Netherlands and Senegal? went ahead of the World Cup?
the various age levels together, as We knew that any group and any team would It was a long time but it was what we planned:
has the coach Felix Sanchez be very, very tough for us. You only have to to train in good weather conditions and to try
who is also a mentor. see the FIFA ranking or the history of each to prepare the team well. We’re confident it
With all the squad now playing of the teams that are here. So we know that was good preparation; improving every day
they are all very challenging teams. But I to try to be at our best for November 20.
their club football at home, there are think we need to be proud to be here. We
understandable worries about how now know our opponents, so what we’re As the host nation, you’ll be playing
their biggest and best stars are not going to try to do from now on is to start the opening game of the tournament.
playing at the highest level. But then

We’ve played Ecuador before, so we will try
to show the best level in front of our people.
I think that’s the most important [game]. The
first game in a tournament is always the most
important because it gives you the feeling how
the team will perform during the competition.
And what are your thoughts on that game

and being part of the opening ceremony?
It’s going to be a big day for the country.
Qatar’s first World Cup, and in Qatar, so it’s Preparation...
unique. People have to enjoy this moment the Maroon at last
and I hope they will cheer for the team. year’s FIFA Arab Cup

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> QATAR
TACTICS SCHEDULE
PRE-WORLD CUP
Tiki-taka in the Gulf Sep 23
0-2 v Canada
(Vienna)
Sep 27
anchez has his side well- 2-2 v Chile
S drilled and organised and the

Spanish influence is apparent
in the fluidity of the team when
it attacks – and Qatar like to attack
whenever possible, and understandably
(Vienna)
Oct 23 v Guatemala
(Malaga)
so: they are better going forward than

defending. They were top scorers at the
2019 Asian Cup and the 2021 Gold Cup.
Viennese preparation
The formation tends to be 5-3-2 when ...Qatar’s team ahead
defending, which seamlessly moves into of the Canada defeat
a 3-5-2 when going forward. Happy to
press high, they can be pragmatic when GROUP GAMES
Nov 20
coming up against stronger opposition.
v Ecuador
The fact that they all play at home and (Al Khor)
as many as half play for Al Sadd, and Nov 25
were coached by Xavi before he left for v Senegal
Barcelona, means that Qatar should (Doha)
Nov 29
be one of the most cohesive teams.
v Netherlands
Much depends on the form and fitness (Al Khor)
of the forward pairing, goalscorer Almoez
Ali and Akram Afif, the creative heart of
the team. The pair have an impressive
understanding when they are on song, Ahmed
and it is hoped that this will make up for
some defensive deficiencies. The three
centre-backs can be pulled out of position Strike partners... A. Hassan Hatem
and there is also a vulnerability to crosses Akram Afif and
and set-pieces. Although plenty of time Almoez Ali
has been spent on the training pitch Ali
trying to fix this, some displays in the
build-up have been less than impressive. Al Sheeb Al Rawi Boudiaf
Afif
Khoukhi Al Haydos
Experienced...captain
Ro-Ro
Hassan Al Haydos holds
Qatar’s caps record
THE VIEW FROM QATAR COACH

“Fans are hoping for a miracle but Felix SANCHEZ (Spa)
up front no one can replace Afif and Age 46 (13.12.75)
Almoez. They will need to be in top form Appointed July 2017
if Qatar want to score goals, and if the
team don’t solve the defensive problems A Barca youth coach when he got the
they showed during the European call from Qatar in 2006 and started work
qualifiers campaign, it will be difficult at Doha’s Aspire Academy. Took over the
to achieve anything at the World Cup.” U19 team in 2013 and then the U23s
Mohamed El-Gharbawy, Football Qatar and the senior side four years later. It was
expected that he would work with the
“Qatar will have home support but are team until a couple of years out from the
in a tough group. If Qatar’s opening World Cup when a big-name coach would
game against Ecuador turns out to take over. That has not happened due to
be a positive result then coach Felix the job he has done. He won the Asian
Sanchez and his men can expect U19 title in 2014 and then landed the big
wonders, but the home side will Asian Cup one, the Asian Cup, in 2019. Sanchez
have to be really good at this level.” winner... knows the players better than anyone,
Felix Sanchez
Mohammad Amin, Stad Doha is a mentor, and that could be crucial.

81 15 9 27 51 120
0 0 0 2 2 15
Saad AL SHEEB Meshaal BARSHAM Yousef HASSAN Homam AHMED Bassam AL RAWI Abdelkarim HASSAN
Al Sadd Al Sadd Al Gharafa Al Gharafa Al Duhail Al Sadd
GOALKEEPERS
DEFENDERS
Veteran goalkeeper who A solid sub to Al Sheeb The Al Gharafa keeper The left wing-back is a Another star of the Asian Hugely experienced
won the Golden Glove at when called upon, though made his debut in 2018 relatively late addition to Cup triumph, and named in defender and one of the
the 2019 Asian Cup and some local pundits believe and has warmed the the team and impressed Team of the Tournament. pillars of the squad. 2018
has plenty of other titles he is the safer option of the bench at the Asian Cup, at the Gold Cup. His The Iraqi-born defender Asian Player of the Year
too. Shares his playing two. Hero of the penalty- Copa America and Gold introduction could see hits a mean free-kick and 2019 Asian Cup winner
time at club level with shootout win over Egypt Cup, although he played Abdelkarim Hassan and can also play as a who can play left-back
Meshaal Barsham. at the 2021 Arab Cup. one game at the Arab Cup. moved inside. defensive midfielder. or centre-back.
29 100 79 56 1 58
0 21 1 0 0 12
Musab KHEDER Boualem KHOUKHI RO-RO Tarek SALMAN Naif AL HADHRAMI Ali ASSADALLA
Al Sadd Al Sadd Al Sadd Al Sadd Al Rayyan Al Sadd
MIDFIELDERS
A right-back born Born in Algeria, Khouki A versatile and powerful A solid player who easily A new face to the squad, Bahrain-born midfielder.
in Sudan and, after ten is a senior member of the Portuguese-born defender slots into the middle of he made his debut in a Not as integral to the team
years playing in the Qatar central defence. Like Bassam of Cape Verdean descent, the defence. One of the friendly against Slovenia as he was a few years ago
Stars League with Al Sadd, Al Rawi, he can also play as also known as Pedro Miguel. better distributors from in March. Likes to play but adds experience and
Al Rayyan and Al Arabi, a holding midfielder and Another star of the Asian the back, which suits on the right side of composure. Didn’t feature
adds experience and has an outstanding goal Cup side and can play right Felix Sanchez’s style of midfield but offers at the Asian Cup, Gold
depth to the squad. record for the Maroon. centre-back or wing-back. play and philosophy. versatility if needed. Cup or Copa America.
111 0 98 43 68 2
5 0 11 0 4 0
Karim BOUDIAF Ahmed FADHEL Abdulaziz HATEM Assim MADIBO Ismaeel MOHAMMAD Abdelrahman MOUSTAFA
Al Duhail Al Wakrah Al Rayyan Al Duhail Al Duhail Al Duhail
Qatar’s midfield lynchpin. A solid, calm defensive A powerful and consistent A skilful and energetic The wide man can play Young, hard working,
The French-born midfielder midfielder who could presence on the left side presence in the middle of at right wing-back but has covers a lot of ground
was naturalised in 2013 and be a late addition to the of the attack for years, the park and played a major been in and out of the team and likes to get forward
has played over 100 games squad. Played for Qatar’s known for his intelligent part in Qatar winning the since making his debut whenever possible. Part
since. He holds the fort, U23 side as an over-age playmaking ability and Asian Cup. Hampered by almost a decade ago. One of of the 2019 Asian Cup-
leaving Al Haydos and player at the 2018 Asian scoring of spectacular injuries recently, which eight current players to win winning squad, but didn’t
Hatem free to create. Games in Indonesia. goals. A lock in midfield. threaten his WC chances. the 2014 Arabian Gulf Cup. play a single minute.
20 7 83 165 46 82
0 1 25 34 1 39
Mohammed WAAD Yusuf ABDURISAG Akram AFIF Hassan AL HAYDOS Ahmed ALAAELDIN Almoez ALI
Al Sadd Al Sadd Al Sadd Al Sadd Al Gharafa Al Duhail
FORWARDS
Born in Iraq and Tricky winger who Makes Qatar tick. Creative Captain, record appearance The left-sided attacker The star striker – top scorer
subsequently naturalised can play either side forward who likes to drift maker and Qatari legend. offers options but is at the 2019 Asian Cup and
to win plenty with Al Sadd. if needed and likely out to the left, but is given Classed as an attacker but unlikely to get too many 2021 Gold Cup – needs to
Likely to be a solid reserve to be an option off licence to roam across the usually found on the right minutes. Used exclusively shine for the Maroon to have
defensive midfielder with the bench. One of the front line and make things side of midfield. Has won as a late substitute in any chance of progressing.
the ability to cover in graduates of Doha’s happen. His partnership everything in Asia and is Qatar’s 2019 Asian Not far off being Qatar’s
defence if necessary. Aspire Academy. with Almoez Ali is crucial. not far short of 200 caps. Cup-winning team. all-time record goalscorer.
3 46
1 11
ALSO IN CONTENTION
GOALKEEPERS Salah ZAKARIA (Al Duhail)
DEFENDERS Mohammed EMAD (Al Wakrah), Jassem GABER (Al Arabi), Ahmed SUHAIL (Al Sadd)
Khalid MUNEER Mohammed MUNTARI
Al Wakrah Al Duhail MIDFIELDERS Abdullah AL AHRAK (Al Duhail), Salem AL HAJRI (Al Sadd), Osama AL TAIRI (Al Rayyan),
Age 24 (24.02.98) Age 28 (20.12.93) Abdulrahman MOHAMED (Al Wakrah), Mostafa TAREK MASHAAL (Al Sadd)
A pacy presence in attack, Born in Ghana, offers
the Aspire Academy product an aerial threat and a FORWARDS Hazem AHMED (Al Wakrah)
was first called up in 2017 dangerous option from the
but didn’t make his debut bench, especially if Qatar
until the Arab Cup in 2021. are chasing the game.
Scored his first goal in Scored at the Arab
a friendly in August. Cup and Gold Cup.

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> SAUDI ARABIA
Rank outsiders
The Saudis cruised through qualifying, yet
still make the short trip to Qatar as underdogs
aving started the 2018
H World Cup by losing 5-0 to

Russia then ending it with
a 2-1 victory over Egypt,
the Green Falcons have since become
Asia’s most improved team. It all changed
Dejected...Saudi
Arabia exited the
2018 World Cup
at the group stage
when Herve Renard took over in 2019.

In qualification, Saudi Arabia were
the best performers though they started
a little slowly in the preliminary round
three years ago. They emerged from the
pandemic looking stronger and when the
action finally resumed, moved up the
gears and moved into the final round.
Twelve points came from their first
four games, including an impressive 1-0
victory over Japan. Then came a fighting
0-0 draw in Australia in Sydney that
saw the scrappy side of the team. and offensive power is an issue for the
The West Asians kept going and kept senior side too. The Saudi Professional
on picking up points. Different players League is thriving with Al Hilal – who
stepped up when they were needed. Wide supply several of the team’s best players
attacker Salem Al Dawsari cemented his – currently Asian champions, but it also
reputation as one of the continent’s best, allows each team eight foreign players
with midfielder Salman Al Faraj one of (seven per matchday), many of which
the coolest. Strikers Firas Al Buraikan are talented strikers. This does not give
and Saleh Al Shehri chipped in with locals many chances to shine up front.
vital goals. There were injuries but the Al Buraikan made the top ten list of
team overcame them and ended up league goalscorers last season but with
being deserved group winners. Al Shehri injured for much of the year,
There are issues. All the squad play there are not many other options. Yet,
at home meaning there is a real lack of under Renard, there has been more
international experience and exposure. belief, discipline and steel than in
Officials have tried to mitigate this by the past and, while Saudi Arabia are
playing plenty of friendlies, a string of rank outsiders, a team that finished
games that started with June defeats above Japan and Australia must have
something about
them. There will
All the squad play at home meaning also be plenty of
there is a real lack of international fans in Qatar, their
experience and exposure backyard, to help
cheer them on.
John Duerden
against Venezuela and Colombia that
showed there is still much to do.
All being based in Saudi Arabia HERVE RENARD As ever, the Saudi squad is entirely home-
based. How much of a limitation is that?
means, however, that the players will get There is a limitation, but Saudi players are
plenty of rest and time training together. What did you learn from coaching Morocco playing in a strong local league as well
And there is not much pressure. Nobody at your first World Cup four years ago? as in international competitions in Asia.
expects anything from an opening game That when you play very high-level games,
they are never the same. The qualifiers are Is a maximum of seven foreign players
against Argentina, a team with genuine also very different from the main tournament. per team for matchdays in the domestic
hopes of going all the way. Anything at league too much for the development of
all from that clash would be a very big Saudi Arabia breezed through qualifying the local game and the national team?
deal indeed ahead of less intimidating for this World Cup with a real confidence. If you are a club coach in Saudi Arabia, you
The team performed very well to finish will be in favour of a lot of foreign players.
matches against Poland and Mexico.
first in the group in front of both Japan and If you are looking through the eyes of
The Olympic team showed in Tokyo Australia, who also qualified for this World the national team coach in Saudi Arabia,
that they could be competitive against Cup. But, like I said before, it won’t be the your view is completely different: not
the best but were just a little naive same – the World Cup is something else. enough Saudi players are playing.
and lacked ruthlessness up front,

Saudi star man...
Salem Al Dawsari
Salem Al Dawsari has been one of the seeking to achieve during those weeks? to show a very good image of the Saudi
best players in Asia for two seasons. When you are in pot number four for the national team. If you perform extremely
What does he bring to the team? World Cup draw, it is because you are among well you can get a chance to reach the
Salem is a great player, one of the best in the lowest-ranked teams in the FIFA rankings. next round. We will have a lot of support
Asia like Salman Al Faraj. I’m waiting for them So you need time to be well prepared. Qualified...Renard from the Saudi fans, so let’s dream
to be among the best players in the World Cup. gets thrown into the together with determination and unity.
Their level is so good and, with their talent, What is your assessment of Saudi air by his players
they are able to make their country proud. Arabia’s group with Argentina, Saudi fans will travel in huge
Poland and Mexico? numbers to Doha for the
There are few strikers in the national If you think too much about the first Arab World Cup. What
team. How much of a concern is that? group, you will get a headache! will it mean to the team?
There are strikers in the Saudi team, but not They are all very strong teams. The support will be fantastic.
all of them are playing with their club teams! We need them. All of us have
So what can the Green to think about how to make the
Saudi Arabia will have a long training camp Falcons achieve in Qatar? country of Saudi Arabia proud.
before the tournament. What will you be The most important thing will be Samindra Kunti

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> SAUDI ARABIA
TACTICS SCHEDULE
PRE-WORLD CUP
Back to basics Sep 23
0-0 v Ecuador
(Murcia)
Sep 27 0-0 v USA
here have been so many (Murcia)
T coaches in Saudi Arabia over

the years and none have been
able to really stamp a style of
play on the national team. Traditionally,
Saudi Arabia have been happy to keep
Oct 22 v North
Macedonia
(Abu Dhabi)
Oct 26 v Albania
(Abu Dhabi)
Oct 30 v Honduras
(Riyadh)
it simple; sit back against stronger teams
Nov 6 v Iceland
(as most at the World Cup tend to be), (Abu Dhabi)
be direct, physical and hit on the counter. Nov 10 v Panama
Ahead of 2018, Juan Antonio Pizzi tried (Abu Dhabi)
to introduce more of a possession-based Nov 16 v Croatia
game but either did not have the time, (Riyadh)
coming in just months ahead of the GROUP GAMES
tournament after the pragmatic Bert Nov 22
van Marwijk, or the players. v Argentina
Renard has often stuck to the same (Lusail)
4-2-3-1 formation that pretty much all Nov 26 v Poland
(Al Rayyan)
Saudi clubs use but also goes 4-3-3. In Nov 30 v Mexico
terms of style, he has been happy in Asia (Lusail)
to mix things up – battle with Australia
Down Under, while trying to match Japan
in terms of possession, passing and even
building from the back. Against Argentina,
the Green Falcons will obviously try to
keep things tight and snatch a point.
Al Shahrani
There is a lack of goalscorers but there
is guile with Salem Al Dawsari, Salman Front foot...defender S. Al Dawsari
Al Faraj and, perhaps, Fahad Al Muwallad. Saud Abdulhamid
The country is blessed with technical and takes on Ecuador’s
Moises Caicedo Al Bulaihi Sharahili
hard-working holding midfielders and full-
backs that are capable of getting forward.
Al Owais Al Faraj Al Buraikan
Al Amri Al Malki
Al Muwallad
Abdulhamid
Saudi captain...
Salman Al Faraj
THE VIEW FROM SAUDI ARABIA COACH

“I am very impressed with Renard and Herve RENARD (Fra)
AFCON winner...
the harmony in the team. He knows Herve Renard Age 54 (30.09.68)
how to get the best from each player. Appointed July 2019
We have players and a technical staff
in whom we are confident and they are Being in charge of Saudi Arabia for three
experienced in facing challenges. There years is impressive, and recently Renard
is an opportunity to reach the last 16.” signed an extension to 2027. There is
Ayman Al-Hatami, social media more discipline, fight and belief in this
football personality Saudi team under the Frenchman, who
led Ivory Coast and Zambia to AFCON
“I expect the Saudi team to pass the glory. Unlike some coaches in the past,
round of 16. It will be held for the first he’s spent plenty of time in the country
time in the Middle East which means keeping tabs on the younger teams (the
more Saudi fans. The team has many U23s became Asian champions in June).
Al Hilal players, who are the champions Renard would surely love a world-class
of Asia twice in the last three years and player or two, plus European experience,
have lots of international experience.” but he is not going to want for time with
Fares Al-Fazi, Asharq Al-Awsat his players before the finals kick off.

37 10 6 17 14 35
0 0 0 0 1 1
Mohammed AL OWAIS Fawaz AL QARNI Mohammed AL RUBAIE Saud ABDULHAMID Abdulelah AL AMRI Mohammed AL BREIK
Al Hilal Al Shabab Al Ahli Al Hilal Al Nassr Al Hilal
GOALKEEPERS
DEFENDERS
Back-up for his club Experienced back-up Sometimes known as Impressed this season at The centre-back only Hard-working full-back
behind Abdullah Al goalkeeper to Al Owais, Al Yami, he came in during right-back for champions broke into the national who played at the 2018
Mayouf, but has been though has recently lost qualification due to injuries Al Hilal but can also play team last year, but played World Cup, solid in the tackle
Renard’s preferred choice his club place to South and, after a shaky start, on the opposite side if the majority of games in and a consistent performer.
in goal, with no player Korea international Kim did well, keeping clean necessary. A substitute qualification and was also Shared right-back duties
starting more games in Seung-gyu. Still likely sheets against Australia during qualifying, he now a mainstay of the defence during qualifying with
World Cup qualifying. to make the plane. and Vietnam. seems in pole position. at the 2020 Olympics. Sultan Al Ghannam.
32 23 70 12 14 50
0 0 2 0 0 8
Ali AL BULAIHI Sultan AL GHANNAM Yasser AL SHAHRANI Abdullah MADU Hassan TAMBAKTI Nawaf AL ABED
Al Hilal Al Nassr Al Hilal Al Nassr Al Shabab Al Shabab
MIDFIELDERS
This central defender is Battling with Al Breik for Experienced left-back Fighting to be Al Bulaihi’s Very highly-rated young Injuries have limited
another Al Hilal star, who the reserve right-back slot, who loves nothing more partner, Madu impressed centre-back, composed on this cultured midfielder’s
is a threat from set-pieces the Al Nassr star perhaps than to get forward and during qualifying despite the ball, fearless and with playing time since 2018
for his club, though he’s yet likes to attack a little more deliver crosses into the his relative inexperience a bright future, perhaps – indeed, he only played
to score for his country. – as demonstrated by penalty box. Played more internationally. Made in Europe. Captain of the 18 minutes in qualifying
The likely first-choice getting a couple of assists minutes in qualifying his debut on the U23 Asian Championship- – but could be in line
centre-back in Qatar. in the qualifying campaign. than any other Saudi. road to Qatar. winning team in June. for a late return.
8 66 68 9 21 15
0 17 8 1 0 2
Nasser AL DAWSARI Salem AL DAWSARI Salman AL FARAJ Ali AL HASSAN Abdulellah AL MALKI Sami AL NAJEI
Al Hilal Al Hilal Al Hilal Al Nassr Al Hilal Al Nassr
The left-sided midfielder One of Asia’s best players. The captain of the team Recent injuries to the likes The defensive midfielder Full of energy in the
scored a stunner in the Excelled in qualification in is cool and composed in of Abdulellah Al Malki and tore his ACL in February. middle and made his
2021 Asian Champions terms of creating, scoring possession with many of cultured midfielder Abdullah Liked by the coach but, if he name with two goals in
League and has taken well and being an all-round the team’s attacks going Otayf have given the hard- does recover, he probably a vital qualifying win over
to international football. exciting threat. Won the through him. Scored at working Al Hassan more won’t play alongside usual China. Was also Saudi
Also provides cover at Asian Champions League Russia 2018 along with chances of late. Solid rather partner Kanno due to the Arabia’s top goalscorer
left-back if necessary. MVP award in 2021. Salem Al Dawsari. than spectactular. duos’ recent inactivity. at the 2020 Olympics.
37 15 33 2 24 71
4 1 1 0 6 17
Hattan BAHEBRI Abdulrahman GHAREEB Mohamed KANNO Riyadh SHARAHILI Firas AL BURAIKAN Fahad AL MUWALLAD
Al Shabab Al Nassr Al Hilal Abha Al Fateh Al Shabab
FORWARDS
The right-winger has an A versatile attacking Box-to-box midfielder A late addition to the The only Saudi striker to A tricky and pacy winger
eye for goal but has been player who can play wide who never stops running squad, but played in a make last season’s top who has just returned to
battling to get regular – nominally on the left bringing energy, power and central midfield holding ten goalscorers in the the national team set-up
minutes for his club. His wing – or behind the thrust, though served a role in a couple of World league. Needs to stay after serving a doping ban.
international goals include striker. Likes to take four-month suspension this Cup warm-up friendlies fit with Saleh Al Shehri A key attacker during
strikes at the 2019 Asian defenders on. Used year for signing contracts with some authority suffering an Achilles qualification, providing
Cup and Arabian Gulf Cup. sparingly in qualifying. with two different clubs. and composure. injury earlier this year. goals and assists.
4 10
0 0
ALSO IN CONTENTION
GOALKEEPERS Nawaf AL AQIDI (Al Nassr)
DEFENDERS Mohammed AL KHABRANI (Al Khaleej), Ziyad AL SAHAFI (Al Taawoun),

Haitham ASIRI Haroune CAMARA Ahmed BAMSAUD (Al Ittihad), Ali LAJAMI (Al Nassr)
Al Ahli Al Ittihad
Age 21 (25.03.01) Age 24 (31.01.98) MIDFIELDERS Abdulrahman AL ABOUD (Al Ittihad), Turki AL AMMAR (Al Shabab),
A busy and fast attacker, This gangly, unpredictable Abdulaziz AL BISHI (Al Ittihad), Abdullah AL KHAIBARI (Al Nassr), Awad AL NASHRI
yet to make an impact at and talented striker has (Al Ittihad), Abdullah OTAYF (Al Hilal), Ayman YAHYA (Al Nassr)
international level. Could no international goals
be included in the squad as yet but can still make FORWARDS Abdullah AL HAMDAN (Al Hilal), Saleh AL SHEHRI (Al Hilal) – injured
with great hope Abdullah things happen. Another to
Al Hamdan currently finding profit from Saudi Arabia’s
minutes hard to come by. attacking tribulations.

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> SENEGAL
Champions of Africa
A first-ever international trophy has given
Senegal renewed confidence going to Qatar
enegal’s first-ever Africa Cup
S of Nations success in February,

followed by World Cup
qualification for a third
time in March, marks them out as
the continent’s top team and the
African
champions...
Senegal players
lift the 2021
AFCON trophy
best prospects for an African

breakthrough in Qatar.
After a disappointing tournament in
Russia, where all five of the continent’s
representatives crashed out in the first
round, including the Lions of Teranga
themselves, there are hopes an ultra-
confident Senegalese side can make
a big impact in Qatar.
There are some positive parallels with
the side that first represented Senegal
at the World Cup 20 years ago, beating
holders France in the opening game in But February’s Cup of Nations
Seoul and going on to become only the triumph has put all that behind them,
second African side (at the time) to with Senegal deserved winners at the
reach the last eight. tournament in Cameroon where they
A dynamic striker and talisman in were patently the best side on view,
Sadio Mane, as was El Hadji Diouf two albeit needing post-match penalties
decades ago; a strong midfield line-up to edge out Egypt in the final.
plus a competent defence. They then defeated the Pharaohs
In fact, this might be a better again six weeks later after another
generation given they have the World penalty shootout, this time in the
Goalkeeper of the Year Edouard Mendy two-legged play-offs to qualify for
as their last line of defence. Captain Qatar, and again they looked the
Kalidou Koulibaly is rated among the better of the two sides.
top defenders in world football and The Lions of Teranga will now have
recently moved from Serie A to join high hopes of advancing from Group A,
Mendy at Chelsea. where they have a tough opening game
At the 2002 finals in Japan and against the Netherlands but will fancy
their chances
against Qatar
There are some positive parallels with and Ecuador.
the side that first represented Senegal After that,
at the World Cup 20 years ago...in fact, if successful,
anything could
this might be a better generation happen.
Mark Gleeson
South Korea, current coach Aliou Cisse
was the captain. He has been coach for
the last seven years in an extraordinary ALIOU CISSE Boulaye Dia and Sadio Mane in the middle.
It gave us balance and a lot of momentum.
achievement for a manager on a We scored a lot of goals in this system.
continent where trigger-happy Are you considering changing your
administrators hire and fire tactical approach for the World Cup? But Qatar will be different to the AFCON.
Yes, we work in relation to the opponent Yes, it is true that the mentality as far as
with gay abandon.
but, even as I say that, I think it’s mostly the tournament is concerned is different.
Cisse’s tenure includes the last about focusing on what we’re doing and Senegal is much less of a favourite in Qatar
World Cup in Russia where Senegal’s what suits ourselves best. We’ve tried the than at the Cup of Nations. So that’s why we
campaign came to a heartbreaking 5-3-2 system but today everyone knows have been looking a little more at the 3-5-2
halt after the group stage, eliminated that our favourite system is 4-4-2 or 4-3-3. possibility. In June when we played Rwanda
We have players capable of playing in these in the AFCON qualifiers, during the last 15
on fair-play points when they tied with
profiles. We won the Africa Cup of Nations minutes, we played in this system. It is not
Japan on points, goal difference and by playing with this system. The 4-4-2 our preferred system, and I don’t think
goals scored as well as head-to-head. allowed us to score a lot of goals with Krepin we will necessarily start with it, but it is
Senegal collected six cautions to four Diatta and Ismaila Sarr on the sides and a system that we could perhaps adopt.
bookings for Japan and so went out.

Winners...Senegal
players react after
winning AFCON 2021
What psychological state of mind is situation of our players in clubs will improve. Do you see yourself at the World Cup
your squad in ahead of the World Cup? as a role model for African coaches?
It is clear that they are always happy to be Are you going to pick Bamba Dieng, who I’m not sure I’m an example. Yes, we won
with us, happy to return home, to return was in the Cup of Nations-winning squad 2002 World Cup... the Cup of Nations, but when we weren’t
to their family. And we also welcome them but is now out of favour at Marseille? Cisse celebrates African champions I didn’t have the sense
with great happiness. If we won the Cup of Top-level football is difficult. There are ups Senegal’s shock we were inspiring people with what we
Nations, it is because of the love and respect and downs. In the ups, you have to keep win over France were doing. Winning doesn’t mean you’re
which surround this team. In terms of the humility. In the lows, you have to the best coach in the world.
progress of our players, their lack of playing work to get back to your best. If Winning is good, but we keep
time or competitiveness, the difficulties of Bamba is at OM, it’s because he improving because we are
finalising transfers early, are all factors that has the qualities. But he must also young coaches. It is not
we anticipated. There is nothing alarming. I understand that we will not give because we have won that we
thought the last transfer window, which was him any gifts. It was important to take ourselves for what we are
very complicated, went well for us overall. call him up in September to show not. We have humility and that
Abdou Diallo has found a club, Idrissa Gana him that we trust him. But it is up is what will propel us forward.
Gueye too. But, of course, I hope that the to him to change his situation. Mark Gleeson

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> SENEGAL
TACTICS SCHEDULE
PRE-WORLD CUP
The main Mane Sep 24
2-0 v Bolivia
(Orleans)
Sep 27
s expected, much in the 1-1 v Iran
A Senegal approach revolves

around Sadio Mane, who
plays his customary left-sided
role at national team level as well. He is
the team’s talisman and has delivered
(Maria Enzersdorf)
consistently for them over the years,

occasionally slotting in on the right Preparation...
or playing as the lead striker. Boulaye Dia
celebrates scoring
Senegal have played an attacking against Bolivia
4-3-3 for most of this year’s games, but
can also revert to a more cautious 4-4-2 GROUP GAMES
where they employ two holding midfielders. Nov 21
v Netherlands
Coach Aliou Cisse has struggled to find a (Doha)
consistent centre-forward to finish off the Nov 25
myriad of chances that come in from both v Qatar
flanks. Boulaye Dia, Habib Diallo, Famara (Doha)
Diedhiou and Bamba Dieng have all been Nov 29
v Ecuador
tried and none produced performances (Al Rayyan)
of any real conviction.
Ismailia Sarr is a great foil for Mane
on the right and there is strength in the
midfield and defence, plus a top-class
goalkeeper in Mendy. Senegal also missed
out on persuading Aston Villa’s Boubacar
Ballo-Toure
Kamara to play for them in Qatar after
protracted negotiations, while one French- Key player... P. Sarr Mane
born player that they did recruit, back in Sadio Mane
2021 and who would go on to star at the
successful AFCON finals, Bouna Sarr, will Diallo
miss the World Cup after knee surgery.
E. Mendy N. Mendy Dia
Koulibaly
I. Gueye I. Sarr
Sabaly
Top-class keeper...
Edouard Mendy
THE VIEW FROM SENEGAL COACH

“The sky is the limit. We have a generation Aliou CISSE
AFCON winner
of players of a very high quality, players ...Aliou Cisse Age 46 (24.03.76)
who have won the Cup of Nations, who Appointed March 2015
play in the UEFA Champions League
and in the top leagues across the world. Another World Cup for Aliou Cisse after
They will respect their opponents but captaining Senegal in 2002 and coaching
they won’t be scared of them. African them in Russia four years ago. He took
football has improved dramatically.” over as coach from Alain Giresse in March
Salif Diallo, Agence de Presse Senegalaise 2015 on an open-ended contract, having
been shifted up from his job in charge of
“Senegal will have a lot of ambition in the Under-23s. After he finished playing
Qatar after winning the Cup of Nations. at PSG, Montpellier, Birmingham and
A minimum is to do better than in 2018 Portsmouth, he went home to coach
and to get to the quarter-finals, but with the Senegal Football Federation
there are many who believe they can and through the ranks with the national
become the first African side to get junior teams. His stock rose even higher
to the semi-finals of a World Cup.” after leading the Lions of Teranga to
Aliou Goloko, media consultant their first AFCON title in February.

4 14 25 14 13 18
0 0 0 0 1 2
Seny DIENG Alfred GOMIS Eduoard MENDY Fode BALLO-TOURE Pape Abou CISSE Abdou DIALLO
Queens Park Rangers (Eng) Rennes (Fra) Chelsea (Eng) Milan (Ita) Olympiakos (Gre) RB Leipzig (Ger)
GOALKEEPERS
DEFENDERS
Born in Switzerland to Grew up in Italy and is World Goalkeeper of the Injury has restricted his At 6ft 6ins, he will be Switched international
a Senegalese father, he one of three goalkeeping Year for 2021, he played a appearances at left-back one of the tallest players allegiance after playing for
won a contract at QPR brothers, with Lys having handful of games for Guinea- since switching allegiance at the World Cup, and is France at Under-21 level
in 2016 after going over also played for Senegal and Bissau, where his father hailed after playing for France one of the few homegrown and played every minute
to London for a trial. Maurice for Guinea-Bissau. from, against Portuguese at U21 level. Likely first products in the Senegal of Senegal’s success at the
Started at the AFCON in Signed as the replacement clubs before opting for choice with Saliou Ciss set-up. First-choice reserve Cup of Nations finals in
Mendy’s early absence. for Mendy at Rennes in 2020. the land of his mother. currently without a club. for Koulibaly and Diallo. Cameroon this year.
2 64 ? 24 26 96
0 0 0 0 2 7
Ismail JAKOBS Kalidou KOULIBALY Formose MENDY Youssouf SABALY Krepin DIATTA Idrissa Gana GUEYE
Monaco (Fra) Chelsea (Eng) Amiens (Fra) Real Betis (Spa) Monaco (Fra) Everton (Eng)
MIDFIELDERS
A wild-card option on Captain of the team who Youth product at both French-born right-back Versatile winger who Longest-serving member
the left flank for Senegal, is French born but made Porto and Club Brugge, who missed out on the Monaco played Club of the squad who could be
catching the eye after his Senegal debut in 2015 who had a first full season Cup of Nations success Brugge €17m for in the first Senegalese to win
moving to Monaco from and is widely regarded as of senior action in Ligue 2 but was recalled in March 2021, but who has 100 caps if the team get
Cologne in 2021 and one of the best defenders last campaign. Provides to help the team qualify struggled with injury. past the first round in Qatar.
winning several caps for in world football. Spent cover in central defence for Qatar. Came through Missed the 2021 AFCON Recently rejoined Everton
Germany at U21 level. eight years at Napoli. and at right-back. PSG’s youth academy. finals with a torn ACL. after three years with PSG.
12 83 3 19 10 19
0 4 0 0 0 3
Pape GUEYE Cheikhou KOUYATE Mamadou LOUM Nampalys MENDY Pape Matar SARR Boulaye DIA
Marseille (Fra) Nottingham Forest (Eng) Reading (Eng) Leicester City (Eng) Tottenham Hotspur (Eng) Salernitana (Ita)
FORWARDS
Took some persuading Won his first cap back in Defensive midfielder, Unable to convince Signed by Spurs from Another French-born
to choose Senegal over 2012 and played all three and squad member at the Brendan Rodgers of Metz when still only 18 player, likely to lead
France, winning his first cap games at the last World Cup, 2021 AFCON finals, who his ability, but a key and included in Senegal’s the attack in Qatar
last November and playing captaining the team in their is on loan at Reading from component in patrolling Cup of Nations squad, despite the constant
all but one game as they last group match against Porto. Played at the 2015 Senegal’s midfield despite although he played only chopping and changing
won the Cup of Nations Colombia in Moscow. Can Under-20 World Cup where a lack of playing time 13 minutes at the of centre-forwards
at the start of 2022. also play at centre-back. Senegal finished fourth. at club level. tournament. in the team.
14 25 13 0 93 2
2 10 1 0 34 0
Habib DIALLO Famara DIEDHIOU Bamba DIENG Nicolas JACKSON Sadio MANE Iliman NDIAYE
Strasbourg (Fra) Alanyaspor (Tur) Marseille (Fra) Villarreal (Spa) Bayern Munich (Ger) Sheffield United (Eng)
Struggles to hold down Former Bristol City striker, Failed a medical at Nice in Right-sided attacker who Reigning African Footballer Made his Senegal debut in
a regular squad place for who faces a race against the summer after making was born in the Gambia of the Year who is the June after performances in
the national team despite time to recover from injury a U-turn on a potential but grew up in Senegal. team’s talisman and has the English Championship
a consistent goalscoring after missing the kick-off transfer to Leeds United, Fast-tracked into Villarreal’s scored over 30 goals for for the Blades alerted the
record in Ligue 1 where he of the new season in leaving his club career in first team this season after his country. Netted the west Africans to his ability.
has also played for Metz. Turkey. Senegal’s top limbo just months before Boulaye Dia exited to join decisive penalties in both Can play up front or in
Made his debut in 2018. scorer in qualifying. the World Cup kicks off. Salernitana on loan. shootouts against Egypt. a slightly deeper role.
48 1
10 0
ALSO IN CONTENTION
GOALKEEPERS Mory DIAW (Clermont, Fra), Alioune Badara FATY (Casa Sports)
DEFENDERS Saliou CISS (Unattached), Noah FADIGA (Brest, Fra), Ibrahima MBAYE
Ismaila SARR Demba SECK (CFR Cluj, Rou), Moussa NIAKHATE (Nottingham Forest, Eng), Bouna SARR
Watford (Eng) Torino (Ita) (Bayern Munich, Ger) – injured, Abdoulaye SECK (Maccabi Haifa, Isr)
Age 24 (25.02.98) Age 21 (10.02.01)
His driving play down Left-footed right-winger MIDFIELDERS Pathe CISS (Rayo Vallecano, Spa), Joseph LOPY
the right wing is a key who made his Serie A (Sochaux, Fra), Moustapha NAME (Pafos, Cyp)
element to Senegal’s debut in April, having
attacking approach. Joined grown up in Italy, and FORWARDS Keita BALDE (Spartak Moscow, Rus), Abdallah SIMA
Watford from Rennes in was called up to the (Angers, Fra), Mame THIAM (Kayserispor, Tur)
2019 for a fee in the Senegal squad for the
region of £27m. first time in September.

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> SERBIA
Wave of optimism
The Serbians are riding on the wave of coach
Dragan Stojkovic’s confidence and optimism
hen, back in September
W 2019, Serbia suffered

a 4-2 home defeat in
a Euro 2020 qualifier
against Portugal, they were inferior and
it never looked like they could put the
Dramatic...
Aleksandar Mitrovic
celebrates his late
goal against
Portugal
Portuguese in trouble. Two years later,

under new national team coach Dragan
Stojkovic, Serbia went to Lisbon needing
a victory to secure direct qualification for
the World Cup and conceded an early
goal, but they managed to bounce back,
to dominate and eventually celebrated
a deserved 2-1 win. The core of the team
was pretty much unchanged, but in terms
of performance, self-confidence and
body language, the difference was stark.
It is believed that Stojkovic, named
coach only three weeks before the start decisive tie with Portugal, there were
of the qualifiers, is to thanks for such four players who won the 2015 FIFA
a transformation. Mainly down to his U20 World Cup title (Predrag Rajkovic,
knowledge, authority, charisma and Milos Veljkovic, Zivkovic and Milinkovic-
clever man-management skills, Serbia Savic), plus three on the bench (Vanja
put in displays that secured their ticket Milinkovic-Savic, Nemanja Maksimovic
for Qatar. “Piksi” (Stojkovic’s nickname), and Marko Grujic).
insists on attacking football, and has built Cause for concern are an insecure
a team capable to follow his philosophy. defence and an inability to play out from
The team’s strength is in attack with the back. Also, in some matches, Serbia
talented individuals like Dusan Tadic and have shown a lack of consistency, often
Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, offensive wing- putting in an impressive performance in
backs Filip Kostic and Darko Lazovic, one half, but “disappearing” in the other
plus prolific centre-forward Aleksandar – the 2-2 UEFA Nations League draw
Mitrovic. Unless Stojkovic opts for a with Slovenia in June (after being 2-0
3-5-2, which seems unlikely, Serbia will up at half-time) is a prime example.
have the luxury of having Serie A top What Serbia can achieve at the World
Cup is difficult to predict, but
it seems that their chances
Possibly this winners’ mentality of doing better than in South
is linked to the fact that several Africa 2010 and Russia 2018
players, at youth level, were – when both times they were
European and world champions eliminated in the group
stage – do not look bad.
Vladimir Novak
striker Dusan Vlahovic only on the bench.
Alongside him will be Filip Djuricic, Luka
Jovic, Nemanja Radonjic and Andrija DRAGAN STOJKOVIC You often claim the opposition does not
interest you, that you are interested only
Zivkovic as possible super-subs. Another in Serbia. According to that, one could
quality of this Serbian team is the strong You repeatedly stated you were sure that conclude that your formation and tactics
team spirit and character. In three games Serbia would qualify directly for Qatar. do not depend on the opponent.
I am someone who by nature is an optimist. Of course it’s important to know the starting
in qualifying (twice against Portugal and
Believing that you can do it gives you a formation of the opponent. That’s part of the
in the home tie against the Republic of special energy. I’m glad that I succeeded in logical analysis. But what happens on the pitch
Ireland) they managed to come back passing on to the players my belief that we depends on many things. We have our identity,
from behind and get a positive result. will achieve our goal. If you are a pessimist, our philosophy of play, how to defend and
Possibly this winners’ mentality is always in fear, how can you be a winner? how to attack, and because of that we are
Success comes as a reward for something determined to think more about ourselves
linked to the fact that several players,
you’ve done well, for something in what you and to try, through our style of play and
at youth level, were European and world believe. And that’s exactly what happened. movements, to dominate the opponent.
champions after winning final matches From the first game until the final match, we
against favourites like France and Brazil. had that atmosphere and that deep belief. Given the lack of time, do you have an
For example, in the starting XI for the

Jubilant...Serbia
players pose for the
cameras after sealing
World Cup qualification
idea on how you will resolve the defence? I don’t deal with that, I look only on the I think that we are in the most difficult
Mistakes are possible, but we will make an individual quality those players possess. Why group. But we don’t fear anyone. Neither
effort in training to correct those in order to at that point they didn’t play more for their Brazil, with whom each match is a football
improve our defensive play. In general, the clubs and what the reasons were for that, fiesta, nor Switzerland and their possible
defence depends on all of the players and that’s not my problem. It didn’t change my Rematch...Serbia also provocations. Cameroon is a special story
their behaviour. We are determined to make opinion about those players. First of all, faced Brazil in the as we have to get to know them better.
sacrifices as a team and I believe that the as personalities and also as players 2018 World Cup We did a phenomenal job in the qualifiers,
concentration and the decision-making in key who possess the quality to wear the but at the World Cup we must
moments will be on the level that a serious national team shirt. On the other do even better. I dream about
team must have. Timing of zonal defence or hand, of course, it’s important that reaching the semi-finals. I know
man-marking is very important and it depends our players have playing time at that’s a very high target, but
on the football intelligence that you have. their clubs because of physical nobody has the right to tell me
shape and staying in match rhythm. that I’m not allowed to dream
During the qualifiers, did it worry you about it. However, the first
that several of your players had little What do you make of the draw goal is to reach the last 16.
or no playing time at their clubs? and how far Serbia can go? Vladimir Novak

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> SERBIA
TACTICS SCHEDULE
PRE-WORLD CUP
Spoilt for attacking choices Sep 24
4-1 v Sweden
(Belgrade)
Sep 27
ith the exception of the 2-0 v Norway
W first half of the home

game against Portugal
(a 2-2 draw after trailing
2-0 at half-time), when coach Dragan
Stojkovic opted for a 3-5-2, Serbia
(Oslo)
Nov 18 v Bahrain
(Riffa)
played all the qualifying matches in

a 3-4-2-1 formation. It is highly likely
that they will stick with that system at
Nations League...
the World Cup. It’s true that it means Serbia have achieved
that one of the top two centre-forwards promotion to League A
(Aleksandar Mitrovic or Dusan Vlahovic)
will therefore start only as a substitute GROUP GAMES
Nov 24
but, on the other hand, if both were
v Brazil
starters, Serbia would have a line-up (Lusail)
practically with six offensive players, Nov 28
which would be deemed too risky. v Cameroon
Stojkovic favours attacking football and (Al Wakrah)
Dec 2
insists that his team takes the initiative,
v Switzerland
pushes the ball forward and creates (Doha)
chances. With playmaker Dusan Tadic,
left wing-back Filip Kostic, right wing-
back Darko Lazovic – both of them are
natural wingers – versatile midfielder
Sergej Milinkovic-Savic and Mitrovic
Kostic
or Vlahovic as the finisher, this Serbian
team possesses the right players for Competing for Pavlovic S. Milinkovic-Savic
such a style of play. Plus, there are several places...Vlahovic
quality back-up players for the offensive and Mitrovic
department: Andrija Zivkovic, Nemanja Lukic
Radonjic, Filip Djuricic and Luka Jovic.
Rajkovic Veljkovic A. Mitrovic
Gudelj
Milenkovic Tadic
Lazovic
Versatile...Sergej
Milinkovic-Savic
THE VIEW FROM SERBIA COACH

“Serbia are always strong enough to Dragan STOJKOVIC
Piksi...Dragan
compete for the first or second place Stojkovic Age 57 (03.03.65)
in qualifiers for a major tournament. Appointed March 2021
It’s a good generation. It’s true that we
have a difficult group, but I believe we The former world-class Yugoslavia
can advance to the knockout stages playmaker started his coaching career
and afterwards everything is possible.” at the age of 43 and, before the Serbia
Veljko Paunovic, Serbia’s 2015 job, worked exclusively in Japan and
Under-20 World Cup-winning coach China. But if he continues his excellent
work with the Serbian national team,
“Serbia haven’t played as well or been as “Piksi” may one day also be regarded
watchable as they were in the qualifiers as a world-class coach. With more
for a long time. Stojkovic gave the players or less the same players who put in
self-confidence and motivated them in miserable performances in the qualifiers
a great way. From my point of view, it’s for Euro 2020, Stojkovic has not only
already a big success to have qualified.” got the right results, but achieved his
Gojko Andrijasevic, vision and plan that his team plays
Sportklub TV commentator attractive, attacking football.

19 6 28 1 37 34
0 0 0 0 3 0
Marko DMITROVIC Vanja MILINKOVIC-SAVIC Predrag RAJKOVIC Strahinja ERAKOVIC Nikola MILENKOVIC Stefan MITROVIC
Sevilla (Spa) Torino (Ita) Mallorca (Spa) Red Star Belgrade Fiorentina (Ita) Getafe (Spa)
GOALKEEPERS
DEFENDERS
Started the qualifiers Great talent who, at the Serbia’s No.1 at the Central defender who Right-sided centre-back Experienced central
as first choice, but was age of 17, was signed by victorious 2013 U19 Euros made huge progress last who is a regular at defender. An unsung
benched after some Manchester United. If he and 2015 U20 World Cup season, helping his club Fiorentina and on the hero of the qualifiers after
unconvincing displays. stays No.1 at his club and finals. His weakness, poor to win the double and radar of bigger clubs rescuing a 2-2 draw in the
It doesn’t help that he continues his good form, distribution, is putting his reach the Europa League across Europe. His home game v Portugal
plays as a back-up he could be Serbia’s first- position as first choice at last 16. One of only two place in Serbia’s starting with a clearance off the
at club level. choice keeper in Qatar. the World Cup in jeopardy. home-based players. line-up is cemented. line in added time.
19 34 21 8 5 21
1 0 1 0 0 0
Filip MLADENOVIC Matija NASTASIC Strahinja PAVLOVIC Mihailo RISTIC Aleksa TERZIC Milos VELJKOVIC
Legia Warsaw (Pol) Mallorca (Spa) Red Bull Salzburg (Aut) Benfica (Por) Fiorentina (Ita) Werder Bremen (Ger)
Left-back or left Centre-back who spent Powerful 6ft 4in left- Left-back who, after a Talented left-back who Swiss-born centre-back,
wing-back who played most of last term on the footed central defender couple of decent seasons can also play as the who in his youth was at
only an episodal role bench at Fiorentina and is who appears slow and at Montpellier, signed this left-sided centre-back, Tottenham. Remained
during the qualifiers. All now struggling for minutes clumsy, but impressed summer as a free agent with making him a versatile loyal to Werder Bremen
the same, his place in the in Spain. Srdjan Babic and during the qualifiers with Benfica. Vying with Terzic option. Like several others despite their relegation in
squad for the World Cup Erhan Masovic are pushing his great fighting spirit and Mladenovic as cover on the Serbian roster, he is 2021, and helped them
looks guaranteed. him hard for a squad place. and strong duel-play. for first-choice Kostic. not a regular at his club. return to the Bundesliga.
36 48 5 50 25 32
4 1 0 3 0 2
Filip DJURICIC Nemanja GUDELJ Ivan ILIC Filip KOSTIC Darko LAZOVIC Sasa LUKIC
Sampdoria (Ita) Sevilla (Spa) Hellas Verona (Ita) Juventus (Ita) Hellas Verona (Ita) Torino (Ita)
MIDFIELDERS
Technically brilliant Defensive midfielder who Gifted central midfielder Quick and technically Quick and technically Central midfielder who
attacking midfielder, but can also be a makeshift with world-class potential. strong left wing-back who strong right wing-back has gradually become a
lacks consistency and is centre-back. The crucial One day Manchester City put in shining displays for with a good appreciation key player at his club and,
injury-prone. After four man for build-up play from might regret not keeping Eintracht Frankfurt (MVP in for team-play. Yet to score after the arrival of national
years with Sassuolo, he the back. A nomadic career hold of him. He could the 2021-22 Europa League), for Serbia and was rotated team coach Stojkovic, also
signed this summer as a has seen him play in China, become the new but has shown rather pale with Zivkovic in June’s a regular for the Serbian
free agent with Samp. Portugal and Netherlands. Nemanja Matic. performances for Serbia. Nations League ties. national team.
39 35 36 90 28 28
0 6 5 18 1 9
Nemanja MAKSIMOVIC Sergej MILINKOVIC-SAVIC Nemanja RADONJIC Dusan TADIC Andrija ZIVKOVIC Luka JOVIC
Getafe (Spa) Lazio (Ita) Torino (Ita) Ajax (Ned) PAOK (Gre) Fiorentina (Ita)
FORWARDS
Hard-working defensive Versatile and elegant The quickest player in the Captain and Serbia’s Right winger or wing-back After two great seasons
midfielder and a tireless midfielder who has been squad and can play as a left most influential player. with a sweet left foot. At at Frankfurt, Jovic was
runner. Scored the winner linked with a big transfer. or right-winger. Struggled The master of assists is not youth level it looked like he signed by Real Madrid
in the 2-1 victory against Gets loads of goals and for games since joining only a brilliant footballer, could become the Serbian where he had three
Brazil in the U20 World assists in Serie A, but plays Marseille from Red Star but also a fitness wonder. Arjen Robben. Pushing hard frustrating years. Serbia
Cup final in 2015. Cover a more central, sometimes Belgrade in 2018, so has His understanding with the and may well displace are lucky to have such
for Lukic and Gudelj. defensive, role for Serbia. joined Torino on loan. No.9 Mitrovic is telepathic. Lazovic on the right. a striker as super-sub.
78 16
50 8
ALSO IN CONTENTION
GOALKEEPERS Marko ILIC (Kortrijk, Bel), Mile SVILAR (Roma, Ita)
DEFENDERS Srdjan BABIC (Almeria, Spa), Milan GAJIC (CSKA Moscow, Rus), Erhan MASOVIC
Aleksandar MITROVIC Dusan VLAHOVIC (Bochum, Ger), Marko PETKOVIC (Honved, Hun), Uros SPAJIC (Kasimpasa, Tur)
Fulham (Eng) Juventus (Ita)
Age 28 (16.09.94) Age 22 (28.01.00) MIDFIELDERS Veljko BIRMANCEVIC (Toulouse, Fra), Marko GRUJIC (Porto, Por),
“Mitrogoal” hit eight goals He scored 24 goals in Stefan MITROVIC (Red Star Belgrade), Uros RACIC (Braga, Por)
in WC qualifying, plus a Serie A last season, 21
record 43 in the 2021-22 the season before and FORWARDS Djordje JOVANOVIC (Maccabi Tel Aviv, Isr), Dejan JOVELJIC (LA Galaxy, USA)
Championship helping it seems certain that
Fulham win promotion. the best is yet to come.
Started the Premier Netted four goals in the
League season on fire. World Cup qualifiers.

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> SOUTH KOREA
Reliant on Son
Despite the team coming under scrutiny, Son
Heung-min can be the difference maker in Qatar
outh Korea are back at the
S World Cup for the tenth

successive time, a proud
record that can only be
bettered by Brazil, Germany, Spain
and Argentina. Last time around,
despite that famous win over Germany
in Kazan, there was a feeling that they
didn’t do themselves justice in the
defeats to Sweden and Mexico.
Unusually for the Taeguk Warriors,
the coach that started the four-year
cycle, Paulo Bento, is still in charge
and preparing for games against Last time out...
Uruguay, Ghana and Portugal. Son Heung-min
scores against
Qualification was straightforward Germany in 2018
once again, perhaps too much so.
There was little challenge offered by
Syria, Lebanon, United Arab Emirates World Cup warm-ups – including
or Iraq. That has often been the issue victories over Cameroon, Egypt and
for South Korea, how Asia does not Chile – and scored in all of those games
push the team enough or prepare for with Son in particularly prolific form.
the tougher tests that await at the The group could also have been much
World Cup. The highlight was a 2-0 tougher and Korea’s pace could cause
win over bogey team Iran in Seoul problems for their opponents. Influential
but the team often looked laboured, defender Kim Min-jae was injured in
predictable and too dependent on 2018 but is looking good after joining
superstar forward Son Heung-min Napoli in the summer. There is talent in
for inspiration and goals, though the midfield and European experience
performances improved a little across the front line with Hwang Hee-
towards the end of the campaign. chan of Wolves and Hwang Ui-jo, who
The first World Cup warm-up match, joined Nottingham Forest in August after
however, was a complete disaster with impressing in France. Both can blow hot
a 5-1 home thrashing handed out by and cold when wearing the red of their
Brazil. The gulf in class was painfully country but if they find their form and
shooting boots,
then it could
Unusually for the Taeguk Warriors, be a successful
the coach that started the four-year tournament for
cycle, Paulo Bento, is still in charge Korea. In the end,
though, much will
and preparing for the World Cup depend on Son.
John Duerden
apparent but Bento came in for criticism
too and doubts remain as to whether
the Portuguese boss can get the best PAULO BENTO teams, not just one player. Portugal have
a number of players with quality in many
out of his players, doubts that started in aspects. Portugal and Uruguay are the teams
January 2019 and a lacklustre showing What are your thoughts on your group? that have a high chance of advancing to the
and quarter-final exit at the Asian Cup. The group is a tough one but that is always round of 16, most people would say that.
Worries increased after a dismal 3-0 the case at the World Cup as you are playing
the best teams. There is no difference and no What are your aims in Qatar?
defeat to rivals Japan in July, and his issues [in facing Portugal]. However, dealing We have to fight to get to the second round.
reluctance to select talented La Liga with my country will be a different experience. Our goal is to keep improving in every game
midfielder Lee Kang-in, one of the few I will prepare for the match like a pro. and improve what we did in the last game.
real creative players available, has
How will you stop Cristiano Ronaldo? Were you happy with how you qualified?
became a real bone of contention.
Our concern right now cannot be just on one It was a long road through Asia and many
There are still reasons to be cheerful. player. Everyone knows that he is one of the games, but the players stayed focused and
Since that loss to Brazil and outside of best players in the world, forever. But then always did their best in whatever situation
the EAFF Championship, they’ve gone we need to consider all the Portuguese they found themselves in. We will keep
on a five-game unbeaten run in the

Another goal...Son is
congratulated by his
Korea team-mates
working hard to ensure that we have the one. We made some mistakes, and we need and bigger. Improvement is a process that
best World Cup possible. We know it will not to keep working to improve in that area. never finishes. We try to improve every time
be easy but we want to go there and perform We need to find the right tactical system. we play a friendly or have a training camp.
to the best of our ability. The most important Of course, all of the coaches like to have
thing now is to keep doing well and trying to all of the players available, but it’s not Throwback...Bento Have you decided on your formation?
develop our process and way of playing. always possible. We need to find against South Korea We have used different tactical systems
the solutions and make the team at World Cup 2002 and the team have shown the capability
Will you adapt your style of play at compete in the best possible way. to adapt themselves to these
the World Cup compared to qualifying? kinds of changes and needed
In qualifying, we were trying to control and Does the defence concern you? movements. It is important
dominate the game through ball possession, Our defensive organisation has that we are able to do this.
and trying to play in the opponents’ midfield been, in my opinion, good. Mistakes We know that we have players
as much as we can. We had some problems in are going to appear in every game. that can play in more than
defence, but sometimes [goals] we conceded What’s important is that we make one position, and we should
are not just linked with the defensive process. those mistakes a little bit smaller be able to use all of them
Many times they’re linked with the offensive and not let them become bigger in the best possible way.

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> SOUTH KOREA
TACTICS SCHEDULE
PRE-WORLD CUP
A change of approach Sep 23
2-2 v Costa Rica
(Goyang)
Sep 27
oach Paulo Bento has used 1-0 v Cameroon
C many formations since taking

over four years ago with 4-4-2,
4-3-3, 4-1-4-1, 4-2-3-1 and
others making appearances from time
to time, and the Portuguese boss is not
(Seoul)
averse to changing at a moment’s notice.

The main talking point has not been Preparation...
formation, however, but style. Bento has Hwang Hee-chan
celebrates scoring
tried to instigate a more patient, passing- against Costa Rica
based build-up from the back, moving away
from the more direct, fast and aggressive GROUP GAMES
approach that Korea have utilised in the Nov 24
v Uruguay
past even if they do not have the same (Al Rayyan)
quality of full-backs as they once did. Nov 28
The more measured style brings results v Ghana
in Asia where most opponents drop off and (Al Rayyan)
sit deep, but when it came under pressure Dec 2
v Portugal
against Brazil in Seoul it fell apart quickly, (Al Rayyan)
with the defenders either unwilling or
unable to one-touch pass their way out
of trouble. The South Americans caused
panic at the back, there was a total lack
of composure and major gaps appeared
between defence and midfield. Against the
Kim Jin-su Son Heung-min
likes of Uruguay and Portugal, the team
are likely to sit back and use the pace Talismanic...
of Son and others to hit on the break. Son Heung-min
In terms of team selection, the biggest
headaches centre on who starts at right- Kim Min-jae Hwang In-beom
back and the composition of the midfield.
Hwang In-beom’s place seems secure in Kim Seung-gyu Jung Woo-young Hwang Ui-jo
the middle of the park and anchorman
Jung Woo-young was a fixture in qualifying, Kim Young-gwon Lee Jae-sung
but Jeong Woo-yeong and Paik Seung-ho
have featured regularly in the warm-up
friendlies. An attacking role is likely to
be occupied by Lee Jae-song, but Kwon Kim Moon-hwan Hwang Hee-chan
Chang-hoon has made a case recently,
while Nam Tae-hee and fans’ favouorite
Lee Kang-in provide further options.
THE VIEW FROM SOUTH KOREA COACH

“Korea’s chances depend largely on Son Paulo BENTO (Por)
Last chance...
Heung-min as well as Kim Min-jae at Paulo Bento Age 53 (20.06.69)
the back. There are not many players Appointed August 2018
who can score goals in this team, so
especially at this World Cup they will His last game for Portugal as a player
focus on set-pieces and counter-attacks. was against South Korea in the final
It’s hard to predict whether they will group game at the 2002 World Cup, and
go out at the first stage or not.” all will hope that his last game for Korea
Seo Hyung-wook, MBC commentator is not against Portugal at the same stage
20 years later. He has had plenty of time
“Beating Ghana should be a realistic in charge – though COVID took a chunk
target given the uncertainties clouding out of that – but it is hard to see a solid
over the African side. On the contrary, progression. Many feel his preference for
for the first time ever, Korea have enjoyed slow, measured build-ups does not suit
the stability of building their national the Korean way. Unless something
team under one manager for four amazing happens in Qatar, it is likely
years as they head to the World Cup.” that there will be a change of coach,
Steve Han, FIFA writer and many players, after it ends.

4 22 66 45 11 61
0 0 0 1 0 2
GU Sung-yun JO Hyeon-woo KIM Seung-gyu HONG Chul JUNG Seung-hyun KIM Jin-su
Unattached Ulsan Hyundai Al Shabab (KSA) Daegu FC Ulsan Hyundai Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors
GOALKEEPERS
DEFENDERS
The former Daegu FC A star of the last World Failed to play a single An aggressive left-back Didn’t play a part in This cultured left-back has
shot-stopper is likely Cup and that game against minute at Russia 2018 who likes to get forward, qualification but the Ulsan perhaps not lived up to
to be third choice, but Germany – when he was after being first choice in but despite his experience rock has returned to the his early promise but has
being without a club expected to be third choice qualifying, but consistency has struggled to become team in recent friendlies experience in Germany,
puts his spot at risk but was thrust into the has seen him re-take the an automatic starter. and could edge out Park Japan, Saudi Arabia
to Kim Dong-jun or limelight – Jo is expected No.1 shirt. Recently moved Played in the famous win Ji-soo and Cho Yu-min as well as Korea. Likely
Song Bum-keun. to be understudy in Qatar. to the Middle East. over Germany in 2018. for a centre-back spot. first choice in Qatar.
44 21 18 95 27 37
3 0 0 6 2 4
KIM Min-jae KIM Moon-hwan KIM Tae-hwan KIM Young-gwon KWON Kyung-won HWANG In-beom
Napoli (Ita) Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors Ulsan Hyundai Ulsan Hyundai Gamba Osaka (Jpn) Olympiakos (Gre)
MIDFIELDERS
The Napoli star, a crucial The right-back returned Another attack-minded The centre-back never got A powerful centre-back Versatile playmaker
player, missed Russia 2018 from LAFC in Major League full-back in his 30s who his big move to Europe but who can also play as a Hwang has become an
through injury. Big, strong Soccer to find consistency may not start at right- brings plenty of experience defensive midfielder, Kwon increasingly important
and excels at set-pieces at with champions Jeonbuk back but should make the to the back line. Kim Min- has played all over Asia in creative outlet for Korea
both ends. Played every and has yet to become squad. Currently ahead of jae’s main partner in WC South Korea, UAE, China and is missed when not
game in qualifying – the an automatic starter, but veteran Lee Yong and the qualifying and played every and Japan, and is an around. A likely starter
only Korean to do so. has a good chance. upcoming Yoon Jong-gyu. minute at Russia 2018. ultra-reliable back-up. in central midfield.
9 65 41 64 6 23
2 3 12 9 0 2
JEONG Woo-yeong JUNG Woo-young KWON Chang-hoon LEE Jae-sung LEE Kang-in NA Sang-ho
Freiburg (Ger) Al Sadd (Qat) Gimcheon Sangmu Mainz (Ger) Mallorca (Spa) FC Seoul
There was excitement A no-nonsense defensive A serious Achilles injury Another important A talented and creative Liked for his versatility
back home when the midfielder who rarely in 2018 was a huge blow Bundesliga midfielder who La Liga midfielder who as he can play on either
midfield starlet signed for makes the headlines but for Kwon and Korea. The is a composed presence, was discovered on a reality wing or as an attacking
Bayern Munich as a youth is an energetic presence right-sided midfielder has technically excellent and TV show. Was MVP at the midfielder but has yet to
player, but he has ended up and keeps possession well. maybe not returned to always a threat. South 2019 Under-20 World replicate his club form for
establishing himself in the Likely to occupy the those heights but still Korea’s top assister in Cup where South Korea country. Likely back-up for
Bundesliga with Freiburg. holding role in Qatar. makes things happen. World Cup qualifying. finished runners-up. Son and Hwang Hee-chan.
54 13 14 15 4 49
7 2 0 4 1 9
NAM Tae-hee PAIK Seung-ho SON Jun-ho CHO Gue-sung CHO Young-wook HWANG Hee-chan
Al Duhail (Qat) Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors Shandong Taishan (Chn) Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors FC Seoul Wolves (Eng)
FORWARDS
A star of the Qatar league The former Barcelona Injury denied moves to Offers a powerful and A hard-working forward The Wolves forward adds
for a decade, Nam has been prodigy returned to his England and also national physical presence up who burst onto the scene a power and pace to Korea’s
in and out of the national homeland after spells in team game time. Unlikely front and could come off few years ago at club level attack on the right wing
team but can score crucial Spain and Germany, and to start, but a solid central the bench when Korea but has yet to live up to and needs to support Son.
goals. Part of Reading’s youth the all action-midfielder midfield option from the are in need of a goal. that early promise. Made After an explosive start,
academy before signing pro won the K League bench. K League MVP in Impressed on loan at his Korea bow earlier this his career in England
terms with Valenciennes. title last season. 2020 when at Jeonbuk. Gimcheon Sangmu. year, scoring on his debut. has tailed off a bit.
49 104
16 35
ALSO IN CONTENTION
GOALKEEPERS KIM Dong-jun (Jeju United), SONG Bum-keun (Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors)
DEFENDERS CHO Yu-min (Daejeon Hana Citizen), LEE Yong (Suwon FC),
HWANG Ui-jo SON Heung-min PARK Ji-soo (Gimcheon Sangmu), YOON Jong-gyu (FC Seoul)
Olympiakos (Gre) Tottenham Hotspur (Eng)
Age 30 (28.08.92) Age 30 (08.07.92) MIDFIELDERS KIM Jin-gyu (Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors), KO Seung-beom (Gimcheon Sangmu),
South Korea’s main striker Captain, star and biggest LEE Dong-gyeong (Hansa Rostock, Ger), UM Won-sang (Ulsan Hyundai), YANG Hyun-jun (Gangwon FC)
impressed with Bordeaux goal threat. Son needs to
and is likely to be the man be at his best if there is to FORWARDS KIM Gun-hee (Hokkaido Consadole Sapporo, Jpn), SONG Min-kyu (Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors)
at centre-forward. Signed be any chance of success.
by Nottingham Forest in Will move into Korea’s top
the summer but loaned ten all-time appearance
out immediately. makers in Qatar.

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> SPAIN
Back in contention
Reaching the Euro 2020 semi-finals has given
Spain belief that they can compete again
sked what he felt, Dani
A Olmo said: “relief.” It wasn’t

until the last four minutes of
their final game that Alvaro
Morata’s goal qualified Spain for Qatar.
Olmo’s shot came off the bar in Seville
Relieved...Morata
celebrates after
sealing Spain’s
spot in Qatar
and Morata was there to beat Robin Olsen

and take them to their 12th World Cup
in a row. It had been close, more on edge
than expected, and Sweden had the
better chances, but the pessimism, even
fatalism, that had clung to the Seleccion
feels like a thing of the past now.
For Spain it has seemed like all
or nothing over 14 years. For three
consecutive tournaments – a unique
run – they were champions, winning the
Euros in 2008 and 2012 and the World “We’re gutted but very proud; we
Cup in 2010. For the next three, they went toe to toe with the best Italy
didn’t win a single knockout game. In I remember,” Jordi Alba insisted.
2014 they were already eliminated Revenge came in the Nations
before their final group match; in 2016, League in Milan, Spain the first team
they failed to win their group then lost to beat Italy for 37 games. In the final,
to Italy; in 2018 they won once in four having faced France “as equals” in
games, sent home by Russia – a the coach’s words, only a contentious
defeat that was almost a parody decision saw them lose to the world
of a thousand pointless passes. champions. “We were superior to a
Things are different now. All or team like France,” defender Aymeric
nothing? Probably neither, but Spain do Laporte said. “In 2021 we played
travel to this World Cup feeling a team a Euros, a Nations League final and
is taking shape, a new generation that qualified for the World Cup: a splendid
can compete again, their coach’s vision year where we fulfilled objectives,
applied with high fidelity. Luis Enrique’s although we could have won
first home game was a 6-0 win over something,” Luis Enrique said.
Croatia. They beat Germany by the “We’re proud of what we’ve achieved.”
The morning after
the France defeat,
Spain travel to this World Cup one headline said:
feeling a team is taking shape, a “No trophy, but a
new generation that can compete future”. They now
hope that future
again, their coach’s vision applied starts here.
Sid Lowe
same score. Since losing to Croatia in
autumn 2018, Spain have lost just five
out of 45 games: two of which were a LUIS ENRIQUE The temptation could be to start playing
long balls, to defend deep, to close off space,
Nations League final and a European but do you know what? If we play like that,
Championship semi-final. The latter on Do you need to adapt your style of Spain doesn’t stand out. The players I choose
penalties having been the better side. play for Spain to succeed in Qatar? aren’t players to play long balls, to boot it up
There is no need to change the style with the pitch, to all defend. The players I have
It hasn’t been exactly perfect:
which we were world champions and won two chosen and the players I hope to be able
late qualification for Qatar shows that. Euros, which is an attacking, combinative style, to win things with in the future, are players
Progress at the Euros was faltering until with good pressure when we lose the ball. We whose game is to have the ball, to have it in
falling to Italy, winning just once inside are trying to improve because when you win the opposition’s half, to open the pitch out if
90 minutes. And they have laboured to things everyone copies you and studies you, they press us, for the goalkeeper to have the
which means they find solutions and pose ball and, even if the fans have a heart attack,
beat weaker, defensive teams. But no
you new problems. We’re in a process of draw in their striker so that we can bring the
one expected them to be so close, the evolving our model and I think we can. ball out the way we want. That’s all based
Euros summer signalling a shift. “After on a clear footballing idea: we’re better
nine years crossing the desert, we’re So your style remains non-negotiable? than opponents if we play like that.
back,” the federation president said.

Spanish huddle
...delight after
qualifying for
the World Cup
Does Spain’s performance at Euro What is your aim in Qatar? national team is very different. Here the
2020 validate that approach? This is one of those events that every player, team doesn’t play for one player; we all
If we look at the numbers from the Euros, we coach and fan looks forward to. We go there play for each other. We all attack, we all
were the team that made the most chances, with all the hope in the world, to aspire to be Overachievement... defend. I have had lots of those players
the team that scored the most goals – having one of the candidates to win the World Cup. Spain didn’t expect that the media demands. A team is not
played a game less than Italy – the team that to reach the Euro made up simply of the best 11 players in
allowed the fewest chances against it, and Do you know your squad yet? 2020 semi-finals La Liga. What I want is a team that goes
the team that had the most possession. We have a clear idea of what we for the game from the first
want and what players help us minute, regardless of the
How will this World Cup be different? to build a team. When journalists score: we don’t fall deep,
World Cups were always at the end of the look at a player who really stands we always keep taking risks,
season and you got there in a bad state out at a given moment, they do so keep pressing high. That’s what
physically. Maybe at this World Cup the in the context of his club. But in I want the team to do and I
physical condition will be better. One thing the context of his club, that player look for the players who best
is for sure, it will mean that things will is the number one and everyone interpret our idea of playing.
be different, including the preparation. plays to him. The context of the Sid Lowe

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> SPAIN
TACTICS SCHEDULE
PRE-WORLD CUP
Possession with aggression Sep 24
1-2 v Switzerland
(Zaragoza)
Sep 27
n aggressive, proactive 4-3-3 1-0 v Portugal
A based on possession and

pressing, on always playing
the ball out, being on the
front foot, even if that means taking
risks. Why? Because it’s better that way;
(Braga)
Nov 17 v Jordan
(Amman)
because that’s what Spanish players are

good at and what their manager believes
in. So says Luis Enrique himself. He has
Iberian rivals...
built a young squad, which brings two Spain v Portugal
key advantages: one, the physicality and
speed, and two, an enhanced ability to GROUP GAMES
accept ideas imposed on them by the Nov 23
manager. If a player does not do exactly v Costa Rica
(Doha)
as he is asked, he won’t be back. That’s Nov 27
seen at both ends: the goalkeeper has v Germany
to play and the striker has to press. “The (Al Khor)
forwards have to run like mad when we Dec 1
don’t have the ball,” the coach says. v Japan
(Al Rayyan)
“All the way back to the youth teams
we had the same DNA: control the play,
combine, carry the weight of the game,”
Cesar Azpilicueta says, “but every coach
has their touch and Luis Enrique wants
more intensity: we’re more aggressive.”
Alba
According to Thiago: “He has the analytical
positioning of Pep, the aggressiveness of Exciting generation Pedri Olmo
Klopp, lots of the things I saw at Bayern. ...Eric Garcia,
New players come in but grasp those Gavi and Pedri
concepts quickly because not only does Laporte
he choose players who have good feet
and aggression, but who are intelligent.” Simon Busquets Morata
E. Garcia
Gavi F. Torres
Azpilicueta
La Roja captain...
Sergio Busquets
THE VIEW FROM SPAIN COACH

“Spain have a good group with a variety Luis ENRIQUE
of options from the midfield to the Age 52 (08.05.70)
forward line, although perhaps there’s Appointed July 2018
a lack of finishing ability, which could be
decisive when it gets to the knockout There are quite a lot of people who
rounds. In 2008 and 2010 they had don’t like Luis Enrique much – and he
David Villa who won games for them, seems to quite enjoy that, his provocative
and there isn’t that profile of player now.” approach probably more playful than his
Rodrigo Errasti, Radio Marca overly wound-up critics realise. What they
don’t deny anymore (they did), is that
“I have a lot of faith in the coach; he’s the he knows what he’s doing. An innovative
leader. This is a very young team and he coach, fascinating to listen to, he had a
gets the best out of them, which is where platform built at Spain HQ to overlook
the optimism comes from. I don’t dare to sessions and installed a giant screen so
say that Spain are one of the favourites he could show players, live, what they did
but I think it will be a good World Cup.” Fiercely wrong. Fiercely competitive, he has a very
competitive...
Antonio Muelas, Luis Enrique clear view of how to play and the players
Radio Nacional de Espana know that: this is very much his team.

1 1 27 86 41 30
0 0 0 9 1 0
David RAYA Robert SANCHEZ Unai SIMON Jordi ALBA Cesar AZPILICUETA Dani CARVAJAL
Brentford (Eng) Brighton (Eng) Athletic Bilbao Barcelona Chelsea (Eng) Real Madrid
GOALKEEPERS
DEFENDERS
Almost entirely unknown Forest Green Rovers, Son of a Civil Guard, the Legs whirring, Alba Two years without a Spain An all-round full-back
in Spain having played Rochdale, Brighton... Athletic Club goalkeeper has raced up Spain’s call-up ended when the with a bit of edge to him,
his whole professional Spain. A surprise call-up has had high-profile errors left wing for 11 years right-back was included in Carvajal’s Spain career has
career in England and an after just 17 Premier but also made superb but, 33 now, reduced the squad for the 2020 been hit by badly-timed
apparently left-field call- league appearances saves. Ever-present No.1 opportunities at Barca European Championship, injuries – as highlighted
up, but Luis Enrique likes but a regular in the in competitive games may diminish his role and now the Chelsea by his absence from the
his ability with his feet. squad ever since. since November 2020. this time around. captain is a fixture. last two Euros squads.
18 18 15 19 21 139
0 3 1 1 1 2
Eric GARCIA Jose Luis GAYA Aymeric LAPORTE Inigo MARTINEZ Pau TORRES Sergio BUSQUETS
Barcelona Valencia Manchester City (Eng) Athletic Bilbao Villarreal Barcelona
MIDFIELDERS
Luis Enrique has Valencia captain who Youth international for Exhausted, physically and Born and raised in The last World
defended the former stayed despite the club’s France at various levels, mentally, Martinez ruled Villarreal, where he Cup winner left in the
Manchester City starlet need to sell players. who gave up waiting for himself out of Euro 2020 still plays despite Premier squad and, under Luis
amidst sometimes fierce A dynamic, clever and Didier Deschamps’ senior but is back playing at his League approaches. A tall, Enrique, still central to
criticism – and bit by bit technical full-back who side. Gained Spanish best and likely in a three- elegant and left-sided everything Spain do.
he is starting to finally fits seamlessly into the XI nationality in May 2021. way battle to partner ball-playing central “Indispensable”, the
win people over. in Jordi Alba’s absence. First-choice centre-back. Laporte in the centre. defender. coach calls him.
12 67 17 14 34 11
1 0 0 0 1 3
GAVI KOKE Marcos LLORENTE PEDRI RODRI Carlos SOLER

Barcelona Atletico Madrid Atletico Madrid Barcelona Manchester City (Eng) Paris Saint-Germain (Fra)
A feisty little so-and-so The Atletico legend, an U21 Athletic all-rounder “If we’re talking about “When I was a kid, Soler’s grandfather bribed
and a fine footballer. Just 17 European champion and and the son, grandson, pure talent, he’s the I was more interested him with a Gameboy to
and completely unknown an international since 2013, nephew and cousin of best in the world,” in understanding football get him to join a local
when Luis Enrique first will be heading into his fifth footballers. Great nephew Barcelona coach Xavi than enjoying it,” Rodri has team when he was small.
played him; virtually major tournament – and of the legendary Paco says. Was voted Young said, and sometimes it Now in Paris after six
untouchable now in this despite a two-year Gento. Has a dog Player of the Tournament shows. Outstanding for years as a mainstay in
Spain’s midfield. absence after Russia 2018. called Anfield. at Euro 2020. Manchester City. Valencia’s midfield.
46 4 57 24 21 24
2 1 27 4 6 9
THIAGO Alcantara Ansu FATI Alvaro MORATA Dani OLMO Mikel OYARZABAL Pablo SARABIA
Liverpool (Eng) Barcelona Atletico Madrid RB Leipzig (Ger) Real Sociedad Paris Saint-Germain (Fra)
FORWARDS
Son of a Brazilian World Spain’s youngest scorer “My team is Morata and Has never played in Spain La Real captain. Returning From EFMO Boadilla to
Cup winner who has a before his record was ten others,” Luis Enrique having left Barcelona’s from a torn cruciate in Madrid, Getafe, Sevilla,
motto, which Thiago says broken by Gavi. Special said after his striker got academy for Croatia’s March, which is the only Paris and Sporting in
he has always followed: talent, but his progress whistled by supporters at Dinamo Zagreb at 16, but reason to doubt his inclusion. Lisbon. A favourite of
“Fun with responsibility.” has been hampered by Euro 2020. Now back at has played for Spain since The likes of Marco Asensio Luis Enrique. Celebrates
Has grown in importance injury, which could open Atletico after two years 2019. Silver medallist at and Borja Iglesias are goals saluting his late
during his time at Anfield. the door for others. on loan at Juventus. the 2020 Olympics. waiting in the wings. father, a soldier.
30 6
13 1
ALSO IN CONTENTION
GOALKEEPERS David DE GEA (Manchester United, Eng)
DEFENDERS Raul ALBIOL (Villarreal), Marcos ALONSO (Barcelona), Marc CUCURELLA

Ferran TORRES YEREMY (Chelsea, Eng), David GARCIA (Osasuna), Hugo GUILLAMON (Valencia), Diego
Barcelona Villarreal LLORENTE (Leeds United, Eng), Pedro PORRO (Sporting, Por)
Age 22 (29.02.00) Age 20 (20.10.02)
Spain’s top scorer under Youngest Spaniard to MIDFIELDERS Sergio CANALES (Real Betis), Pablo FORNALS (West Ham United, Eng),
Luis Enrique, including a play in a European final Brais MENDEZ (Real Sociedad), Mikel MERINO (Real Sociedad), Dani PAREJO (Villarreal)
Nations League hat-trick when Villarreal defeated
against Germany back in Manchester United in the FORWARDS Marco ASENSIO (Real Madrid), Iago ASPAS (Celta Vigo), Raul DE TOMAS
November 2020. Has a Europa League in May (Rayo Vallecano), Bryan GIL (Tottenham Hotspur, Eng), Borja IGLESIAS (Real Betis),
tattoo with the slogan 2021. Won his first Spain JUANMI (Real Betis), Gerard MORENO (Villarreal), Nico WILLIAMS (Athletic Bilbao)
“I refuse to sink”. cap that year, aged 18.

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> SWITZERLAND
Big expectations
A strong showing at Euro 2020 and an impressive
qualifying campaign mean that hopes are high
witzerland have had a
S memorable 18 months and

will arrive in Qatar with realistic
hopes of reaching the World
Cup quarter-finals for the first time since
they hosted the tournament in 1954. Yet
Best-ever...Haris
Seferovic scores
against France
at Euro 2020
some nagging doubts have emerged

over the course of the summer.
The Swiss produced arguably their
best-ever performance in a major
tournament match at Euro 2020 when
they came back from 3-1 behind to
draw 3-3 with France and eliminate
the world champions on penalties. They
might have gone even further had it not
been for an extremely harsh red card
for Remo Freuler in the quarter-final
against Spain, which came just after
they had equalised and were gaining of my tactics at all,” he said. “It is
momentum. Although they took the important to listen to how the question
game to penalties, Spain went through. that was put to him was worded exactly.
Coach Vladimir Petkovic, who still I’ve discussed his position. They’re
had two years to run on his contract, trying to drive a wedge between us,
was lured back to club management which I don’t understand at all.”
with an offer from Bordeaux and The club form of players is always a
replaced by Murat Yakin. Though concern for Switzerland, and while Xhaka
it turned out to be a poor move for himself has delivered some sparkling
Petkovic, who was sacked seven months displays for Arsenal and Xherdan Shaqiri
later, the change could not have gone has been in regular action since his
better for Switzerland who finished top move to Chicago Fire (despite his team
of their World Cup qualifying group struggling), on the other hand Manuel
ahead of Italy, conceding only twice Akanji’s move to Manchester City –
in six games under Yakin’s leadership. while no doubt prestigious – means he
They did so without Granit Xhaka has been getting far less playing time.
who missed all of those games through Expectations are high, but the Swiss
have landed in a
tough group and,
Switzerland have had a memorable as in 2018, it could
18 months and will arrive in Qatar all boil down to
with realistic hopes of reaching their politically
charged match
the World Cup quarter-finals against Serbia.
Brian Homewood
injury. But, when Xhaka returned,
performances dropped noticeably. They
lost to England and drew with Kosovo in MURAT YAKIN You opted for a four-man defence instead
of the previous three-man back line. Why?
friendlies, then had a miserable time in Every coach has his own philosophy. In my
the UEFA Nations League matches in You’ve been in the job now for over opinion, the back four is the best way to have
the summer, when they lost three games a year – how different is coaching a full flexibility both defensively and offensively.
in a row, including a dismal 4-0 thrashing national team from coaching a club?
It is a different dimension. The national team Is Granit Xhaka indispensable or not?
in Portugal. A home victory over the is an ambassador and a representative of Switzerland played some qualifying
Portuguese lifted the pressure slightly a country. We are all proud that we can matches well without him.
but, inevitably, it raised the question represent Switzerland around the world. Granit is our captain and an absolute leader.
of whether Xhaka is indispensable. Every coach and every team is lucky to have
What elements have you brought him in their ranks. His performances over the
Amid reports that the Arsenal player
to the team since taking over? years at the very highest level leave no doubt.
publicly complained about the 4-4-2 I took over an intact team, but one that
formation used in the 2-1 defeat by the used to allow the opponent too many Xherdan Shaqiri will be participating in his
Czech Republic, Yakin said that no harm chances. We’ve worked on that together. fourth World Cup. What can his experience
was done. “I don’t see that as a criticism

Upset...Switzerland
topped a qualifying
group featuring Italy
bring now that he is playing in MLS? Switzerland also played Serbia and a realistic goal for this experienced
Xherdan is the player who can make the Brazil at the 2018 World Cup. Is there and seasoned Swiss team?
difference in any game with his brilliance. anything to learn from those games? As I said, it’s a very strong group in which
He has shown at every major tournament Four years is half an eternity in football. Controversy... any team can reach the quarter-finals.
how important and how valuable he is for In football, it’s always the now and Xherdan Shaqiri’s So that is also the case for us.
us, no matter which league he plays in. what’s to come that counts. What celebration against
was is history and over. Serbia in 2018 What are you expecting considering the
There is little time to prepare for this finals take place mid-season?
World Cup. How will you go about it? The match against Serbia will A World Cup with a lot of
Together with my coaching staff, we watch be a politically charged game. good games, because the
games and players and analyse opponents. What is your opinion on that? players are all in the middle
I don’t think the teams’ preparations in It’s all about football and not of the season and not just at
other countries will be very different. politics. We hope that everyone the end of a season. This can
involved will see it that way. increase the quality and
What do you think about Group G? intensity of the games.
It’s very strong, with Brazil the favourites. Is reaching the quarter-finals Samindra Kunti

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> SWITZERLAND
TACTICS SCHEDULE
PRE-WORLD CUP
Experienced and hard to beat Sep 24
2-1 v Spain
(Zaragoza)
Sep 27
oach Murat Yakin has binned 2-1 v Czech Rep
C his predecessor’s three-man

defence and returned to the
four-man variation with a
combination drawn from Manuel Akanji,
Nico Elvedi and Fabian Schar in the centre.
(St Gallen)
Nov 17 v Ghana
(Abu Dhabi)
The preferred formation is 4-2-3-1,

where captain Granit Xhaka sits in front
of the defence alongside Remo Freuler.
Nations League test...
However, during most of the World Cup Switzerland v Spain
qualifying campaign, Denis Zakaria stood
in very ably for the injured Xhaka. GROUP GAMES
Xherdan Shaqiri, when fit, acts as the Nov 24
playmaker in the three-man line, often v Cameroon
(Al Wakrah)
flanked by Renato Steffen and Ruben Nov 28
Vargas, while winger Noah Okafor has v Brazil
come into the reckoning in the last year. (Doha)
Alternatively, as seen in September’s ties, Dec 2
Shaqiri can play wide on the right with v Serbia
(Doha)
the versatile Djibril Sow in the centre.
Breel Embolo is first-choice up front
but he is prone to injury, meaning there
could still be room for the old warhorse
and somewhat erratic Haris Seferovic.
The 4-2-3-1 system certainly worked
Rodriguez
during the World Cup qualifiers when
Switzerland conceded only two goals Captain... Vargas
in ten games, although it fell apart Granit Xhaka
in a disastrous 4-0 defeat away to
Portugal in the Nations League in Elvedi Xhaka
June. That prompted Yakin to switch
to a 4-3-3 in the next two games. Sommer Sow Embolo
Akanji Freuler
Shaqiri
Widmer
Able deputy...
Denis Zakaria
THE VIEW FROM SWITZERLAND COACH

“Expectations are running high after the Murat YAKIN
Former
Nati’s win against France at Euro 2020 defender... Age 48 (15.09.74)
followed by Murat Yakin’s successful start. Murat Yakin Appointed August 2021
The popular new coach has brought new
tactics and new players, but in this difficult A former central defender who won 49
group, Switzerland will once again rely caps for Switzerland between 1994 and
on the form of leaders Shaqiri and Xhaka, 2004. As a manager, he won the Swiss
as well as on Yann Sommer’s heroics.” second division with Thun and then
David Lemos, RTS made his name with Basel when he won
successive Swiss titles and led them to
“The team is nearly the same as at the home-and-away Champions League
Euros, so the goal must be the quarter- wins against Chelsea. Since then, his
finals. Yakin has a good feel for the game career has been a mixed bag. He moved
and thinks on his feet – he is not a laptop to Spartak Moscow for one season but
coach. But Shaqiri is a concern, and we then returned home where he had short
are not sure what sort of form he is in.” spells at Grasshoppers and Sion. He was
Andreas Boni, sports editor, coaching second-division Schaffhausen
Blick newspaper when Switzerland came calling.

3 4 76 42 9 40
0 0 0 1 0 1
Gregor KOBEL Jonas OMLIN Yann SOMMER Manuel AKANJI Eray COMERT Nico ELVEDI
Borussia Dortmund (Ger) Montpellier (Fra) Borussia M’gladbach (Ger) Manchester City (Eng) Valencia (Spa) Borussia M’gladbach (Ger)
GOALKEEPERS
DEFENDERS
After playing at every age Late developer who Switzerland’s first choice All-round defender, at Central defender. Made Composed on the ball,
group, Kobel made his full made his debut at 26. since the 2014 World Cup. his best when bringing his first competitive start he was a first choice
Switzerland debut last Unluckily missed Euro Excellent reflexes, calm the ball out of defence. against Spain in June, but at Euro 2020 – playing
year. Has spent his entire 2020 after being injured and self-assured, good on A couple of injuries held most other appearances every minute alongside
club career in Germany during the warm-up the ball and avoids risks. him back last season. have been in friendlies. An Sommer and Akanji – but
with Dortmund, Stuttgart, for the opening game One of the outstanding Limited game time for unused squad member at is fighting to win back
Augsburg and Hoffenheim. against Wales. keepers of Euro 2020. his club is a concern. the Euro 2020 finals. his place after injury.
7 22 100 72 33 11
1 0 9 8 2 0
Jordan LOTOMBA Kevin MBABU Ricardo RODRIGUEZ Fabian SCHAR Silvan WIDMER Michel AEBISCHER
Nice (Fra) Fulham (Eng) Torino (Ita) Newcastle United (Eng) Mainz (Ger) Bologna (Ita)
MIDFIELDERS
Reserve right-back who Second-choice right-back. A consistent supplier of Central defender who Made his debut in 2014 Central midfielder.
made his international Played at Euro 2020 but crosses from left-back and has been brought back but has only become a Suffered a knee injury
debut in October 2020. a difficult last season at a dead-ball expert, he is into the side under Yakin. regular in the last two shortly after his debut
Included in the Euro 2020 Wolfsburg has set him one of the first names Stands out with his long- seasons and is now the in 2020 but battled his
squad but, like fellow back, as has his move on the team sheet. His range shooting – something first-choice right-back. way back into the squad,
youngster Eray Comert, to Fulham where he has club career has not quite he has displayed often in Only missed one World featuring when Yakin
did not see any action. struggled for game time. matched his early promise. the Premier League. Cup qualifying game. switched to a 4-3-3.
22 48 108 32 27 26
3 5 26 0 1 4
Fabian FREI Remo FREULER Xherdan SHAQIRI Djibril SOW Renato STEFFEN Ruben VARGAS
Basel Nottingham Forest (Eng) Chicago Fire (USA) Eintracht Frankfurt (Ger) Lugano Augsburg (Ger)
Defensive midfielder Intelligent and calm on Once nicknamed the Versatile midfielder who Winger who debuted in A small, quick winger with
recalled following Euro the ball, Freuler had been “Alpine Messi”, Shaqiri is covers a lot of ground 2015, missed Euro 2020 panache and a low centre
2020 after a long spell in a key part of Atalanta’s always a threat with his and has begun featuring through injury and has of gravity. scored in the
the wilderness. Made his remarkable rise over long-range shooting and more regularly. A Europa enjoyed his first extended penalty-shootout victory
debut back in 2011. Is also the last few seasons clever passing, though his League winner last season. run in the team since. The over France at Euro 2020,
capable of filling in at before moving to the club career has not lived Previously on the books of player who was sacrificed but then heartbreakingly
centre-back if required. Premier League. up to expectations. Zurich and Young Boys. when Yakin opted for 4-3-3. missed against Spain.
106 42 51 1 58 41
12 3 10 0 11 16
Granit XHAKA Denis ZAKARIA Steven ZUBER Zeki AMDOUNI Breel EMBOLO Mario GAVRANOVIC
Arsenal (Eng) Chelsea (Eng) AEK Athens (Gre) Basel Monaco (Fra) Kayserispor (Tur)
FORWARDS
Has faced harsh criticism at Defensive midfielder. A Left-sided winger who had Briefly switched to Turkey Powerful forward who Well-travelled striker who
various points in his career, key player in qualification an impressive Euro 2020, at Under-21 level before played at Euro 2020. made his debut in 2011
but he remains the team’s in the absence of Xhaka, but has been used sparingly being called up for the Switzerland’s top scorer and has been in and out
captain and heartbeat. His although, since then, injury since and may have passed seniors for the first time in qualifying will come up of the squad since. Likely
Arsenal career has been has set him back. Hoping his peak. Now plying his in June. Likely vying with against the country of his to be a substitute in Qatar,
rejuventated since Mikel to bounce back on loan at trade in Greece after spells Itten and Ndoye for a birth, Cameroon, in their a role he performed with
Arteta took charge. Chelsea from Juventus. in Russia and Germany. reserve striker’s spot. opening game in Qatar. real impact at Euro 2020.
8 88
2 25
ALSO IN CONTENTION
GOALKEEPERS Philipp KOHN (Red Bull Salzburg, Aut), Yvon MVOGO (Lorient, Fra),
David VON BALLMOOS (Young Boys)
Noah OKAFOR Haris SEFEROVIC DEFENDERS Ulisses GARCIA (Young Boys), Leonidas STERGIOU (St Gallen)
Red Bull Salzburg (Aut) Galatasaray (Tur)
Age 22 (24.05.00) Age 30 (22.02.92) MIDFIELDERS Mattia BOTTANI (Lugano), Christian FASSNACHT (Young Boys),
A regular in the squad last No longer an automatic Kastriot IMERI (Young Boys), Ardon JASHARI (Luzern)
season, scoring his first goal choice, and prone to let
in the 4-0 win over Bulgaria chances go begging, but FORWARDS Albian AJETI (Sturm Graz, Aut), Cedric ITTEN (Young Boys),
which clinched Switzerland’s still in contention for a Dan NDOYE (Basel), Andi ZEQIRI (Basel)
place in Qatar. Can play up place. In the top ten list
front or out wide and is a of Switzerland’s all-
regular scorer for his club. time top goalscorers.

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> TUNISIA
Lucky to be here
If an African nation is to impress in Qatar,
it is unlikely to be the Eagles of Carthage
unisia can count themselves
T fortunate qualifiers for the

tournament in Qatar and
could arguably be among
the weakest sides that Africa has
yet sent to the World Cup finals.
Encouraging...
Tunisia impressed
at the Kirin Cup
in Japan
A FIFA ranking inside the top 30

is something of a misnomer as they
enjoyed a fortuitous route to the finals,
devoid of any significant obstacle in the
African qualifiers.
Tunisia topped their four-team group
this time last year, winning four of six
games against Equatorial Guinea,
Mauritania and Zambia.
They were then drawn against Mali
in March’s two-legged play-offs – one
of the best possible pairings they could
have got considering potential opponents to his credit, Tunisia had not conceded
included Ghana, Egypt and Cameroon a goal in his first six matches in charge,
– but only squeezed through with which included a creditable Kirin Cup
more dollops of luck. trophy with comprehensive victories
They won the first leg away, over Chile and hosts Japan.
courtesy of a horrendous own goal Their defence is their strong point
by Moussa Sissako, and then at home and one of the reasons a relatively small
in the return match fought a stout country, with a population of 12 million,
defensive rear-guard action to hold is able to punch above its weight in
out for a goalless draw and qualify African football. Allied to a strong
by the narrowest of margins. domestic league, Tunisia are perennial
At no time was there any conviction contenders and heading for a sixth
in their play, leaving the impression of World Cup finals appearance.
good fortune. They were the first African country to
In January at the Cup of Nations finals win a World Cup finals game, beating
in Cameroon, there was more fortuity as Mexico 3-1 in Rosario in 1978 in a
pivotal breakthrough
A FIFA ranking inside the top 30 is for the African game.
But they are still to
something of a misnomer as they get past the group
enjoyed a fortuitous route to the stage and won only
finals, devoid of any significant two of 15 past
matches at the
obstacle in the African qualifiers finals tournament.
Mark Gleeson
they reached the quarter-finals despite
losing more matches than they won.
They were beaten in two of their JALEL KADRI qualifying for the 2023 AFCON against
Equatorial Guinea and Botswana, away, we
three group matches and only advanced had four points. It was key for the group to
as one of the best third-placed finishers, How did you rebuild the team after the have a clear idea of where we wanted to go
but then beat Nigeria (courtesy of a disappointing Africa Cup of Nations? five months before the World Cup. We gave
The fact that I was a part of the backroom players with little playing time maximum
goalkeeping error) 1-0 in the round
staff of coach Mondher Kebaier helped me opportunities. The Kirin Cup gave us a lot of
of 16 before being knocked out by as I knew the whole team. I knew all the information about the depth of our team.
Burkina Faso in the last eight. details, both tactically and technically
Their performance at the Cup of as well as mentally. It helped me to get The 5-1 friendly loss to Brazil in September
Nations led to the sacking of coach better results and better performances. was the biggest test before the World Cup.
Yes, you don’t play Brazil every day. It was not
Mondher Kebaier in an admission that
What lessons did you learn from defeating simple to play an adversary of that calibre, but
they had not been good enough. His Chile 2-0 and Japan 3-0 at the Kirin Cup? we tried to get the most out of it. We are in
deputy Jalel Kadri is his successor and It was significant after having qualified for the a group with France, Denmark and Australia.
will be among the least experienced World Cup against Mali. After two matches in France are title contenders, Brazil the same.
coaches at the World Cup finals. But

Going to Qatar...
Tunisia players
celebrate after
beating Mali in
the play-offs
They have the same quality, and are similar should get the spotlight, the fact that the five the highest-ranked team in the FIFA
technically and tactically. Those two teams African countries have had the courage to rankings in the last two or three years.
together with Argentina can win the World confide in the coaches of their countries. Cameroon remain an experienced team.
Cup. They are the best teams at the moment, It illustrates confidence. It is an honour to Disappointment... Everyone has their chance. I hope all these
Brazil with the form they are in. It was a game have the task to represent your country at Tunisia went out countries stand firm at the World Cup.
of a very high level and an excellent test. the World Cup and it is a moral engagement in the group stage
above all. Hopefully, all the coaches are at Russia 2018 Is there even more pressure on
Tunisia have never survived the group lucky and make the decisions that you as a local coach?
stages. Will it be any different in Qatar? prove their federations right No, to live with pressure is
That is our main goal. It’s Tunisia’s sixth in having chosen them. a normal aspect of our work.
participation. We have never made it out It is also part of football’s
of the first round, but that will be our aim. Which African team will be the charm. So we try to be very
strongest at the World Cup? professional and focused but
The African nations will all have African It depends. Personally, I have you have to live with that
coaches at the World Cup for the first time. great confidence in my team as and try to give it your all.
It is an important point. It’s something that well as in Morocco. Senegal are Samindra Kunti

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> TUNISIA
TACTICS SCHEDULE
PRE-WORLD CUP
Sit back and counter with Khazri Sep 22
1-0 v Comoros
(Orleans)
Sep 27
unisia’s strength is their lack 1-5 v Brazil
T of adventure and they will be

among the more tactically
cautious sides at the World
Cup finals, happy to soak up the pressure,
let the opponents have most of the play
(Paris)
Nov 15 v Colombia
(Abu Dhabi)
and hope for opportunities at set-pieces

or on the counter-attack. It is an approach
that has stood them in good stead and
Dress rehearsal...
they will be unlikely to veer from this Tunisia beat UAE in
– especially considering the strength last year’s Arab Cup
of the opponents in their group.
Tunisia play with a 4-3-3 system but GROUP GAMES
Nov 22
that switches quickly to 4-5-1 at the
v Denmark
first sign of danger. The midfield does (Al Rayyan)
sit back and is cautious to push too far Nov 26
forward. The Eagles of Carthage are v Australia
most efficient at preserving the tightest (Al Wakrah)
Nov 30
of defences and smothering opposing
v France
attacks – in fact, they are among the (Al Rayyan)
most disciplined of all the African
teams. But they also have pace on
the flanks and their best attacker,
Wahbi Khazri, is an effective weapon
in catching opponents unawares with
Maaloul
both speed and guile. Set-piece
opportunities are also taken more Talisman... Laidouni Msakni
liberally than most by Tunisian teams, Wahbi Khazri
with a strong physical presence.
Bronn
Dahmen Skhiri Jaziri
Talbi
Chaaleli Khazri
Drager
Star man...Khazri
was Tunisia’s top
goalscorer at
AFCON 2021
THE VIEW FROM TUNISIA COACH

“Tunisia must achieve a long-awaited Jalel KADRI
Former
feat for the fans by qualifying for the assistant... Age 50 (14.12.71)
second round for the first time. The last Jalel Kadri Appointed January 2022
group game against the French will be
very difficult, almost impossible. Tunisia Kadri was assistant to Mondher Kebaier,
will participate in the World Cup with a role he had also previously held when
optimism, but with great caution.” Nabil Maaloul was coach in 2018. His
Abdessalam Dhaifallah, sports chief, coaching career reflects the tenuous
Radio Mosaique FM nature of taking charge of clubs in the
Arab world, where hiring and firing is
“Tunisia have a great tradition in World far more frequent than most. A former
Cups, remembering what the 1978 team league player, he began his coaching
did. I believe in our team capacities, even career in 2008 at Esperance Zarzis but
though I do note some weaknesses. Our lasted only six games. He took charge
team counts on different players, young of another six Tunisian clubs, plus Al
and experienced, who mostly play in Ansar, Al Nahdah, Al Khaleej (Saudi
Europe and have interesting skills.” Arabia), Emirates Club (United Arab
Rafik El Herguem, sports editor, La Presse Emirates) and Al Ahly Tripoli of Libya.

10 4 0 36 33 7
0 0 0 2 3 0
Bechir BEN SAID Aymen DAHMEN Mohamed SEDKI DEBCHI Dylan BRONN Mohamed DRAGER Nader GHANDRI
US Monastir CS Sfaxien Esperance Salernitana (Ita) Luzern (Sui) Club Africain
GOALKEEPERS
DEFENDERS
Took over as a surprise Has recovered from Tall goalkeeper who Started at his hometown German-born attacking Won his first cap in 2019
first choice for Tunisia ruptured knee ligaments only made his debut at club Cannes, qualifying for right-back who got no but not picked again until
at the Africa Cup of to force his way back into champions Esperance Tunisia through his mother game time after joining the World Cup play-offs v
Nations finals in January, contention, while also last season but has and netting against Belgium Nottingham Forest last Mali in March where he was
winning his first cap and helping his hometown club quickly forced himself at the last World Cup in season and has since a surprise starter. Vying with
keeping his place for the to Tunisian Cup success. into national team Moscow. Has a knack of been loaned out to Bilel Ifa as the first-choice
World Cup play-offs. Started at the Kirin Cup. reckoning under Kadri. scoring from set-pieces. the Swiss league. back-up at centre-back.
39 2 82 3 22 1
0 0 2 0 0 0
Bilel IFA Rami KAIB Ali MAALOUL Omar REKIK Montassar TALBI Yan VALERY
Kuwait SC (Kuw) Heerenveen (Ned) Al Ahly (Egy) Sparta Rotterdam (Ned) Lorient (Fra) Angers (Fra)
Recalled last year for Former Swedish youth Flying left-back regarded Ex-Dutch U18 international Paris-born centre-back Right-back and academy
the Arab Cup - where he international left-back who among the best African- and Manchester City youth who starred at Esperance product of Southampton,
started all six games – has switched allegiance based footballers, who product, who is now on but has since played in Italy, but now back in his native
after an astonishing eight and won his first caps for has won two Champions the books at Arsenal but Turkey, Russia and now in France. Agreed to play for
years out of the team, Tunisia as a substitute League crowns and four on loan in the Eredivisie. Ligue 1. A fixture in the XI Tunisia just ahead of the
having last played at the in the Kirin Cup victory Premier League titles with Played at the AFCON since Yassine Meriah tore World Cup, making his
2013 Cup of Nations finals. in Japan in June. Egyptian giants Al Ahly. finals earlier this year. cruciate ligaments in 2021. debut against Brazil.
5 24 30 28 24 18
0 4 1 4 1 0
Mortadha BEN OUANES Anis BEN SLIMANE Ghaylen CHAALELI Saif-Eddine KHAOUI Aissa LAIDOUNI Hannibal MEJBRI
Kasimpasa (Tur) Brondby (Den) Esperance Clermont (Fra) Ferencvaros (Hun) Birmingham City (Eng)
MIDFIELDERS
Brought back into the Was a Denmark youth Central midfielder who Attacking midfielder who Hard-working French-born Tenacious, tousled-haired
squad after an almost international, and helped competed for Tunisia at the switched his allegiance midfielder who played a French-born playmaker
three-year absence for his club to win the Danish last World Cup in Russia after winning youth caps single Ligue 1 match at who is on the books of
the Mali play-offs and, Superliga title in 2021, and has won five Tunisian for France ahead of the Angers before his career Manchester United but on
although plays mainly but has been a Tunisia league titles either side last World Cup, where flourished in eastern loan in the Championship
defensive midfield, can regular since his first of a brief stint at Turkish he played one match Europe. Nobody played in order to get regular
also cover at left-back. cap two years ago. club Yeni Malatyaspor. against Belgium. more games in qualifying. playing time.
76 48 29 9 71 48
6 3 10 2 24 9
Ferjani SASSI Ellyes SKHIRI Seifeddine JAZIRI Issam JEBALI Wahbi KHAZRI Taha Yassine KHENISSI
Al Duhail (Qat) Cologne (Ger) Zamalek (Egy) Odense (Den) Montpellier (Fra) Kuwait SC (Kuw)
FORWARDS
Plays his club football Energetic defensive Often used as a lone Moved to Scandinavia from Tunisia’s captain at the Nine-time Tunisian
in Qatar and has been a midfielder. In the 2020-21 striker, Jaziri was the top Etoile Sahel in 2015 but last World Cup where league title winner with
national team regular since Bundesliga campaign, he scorer at last December’s has made only intermittent he scored in successive Esperance and CS Sfaxien,
2013, participating at the last ran a total of 396km – Arab Cup in Qatar, a test appearances for Tunisia games, and is now second the centre-forward moved
World Cup – where he scored a full 8km more than event for this World over the last four years. on his country’s list of all- to the Middle East earlier
against England – and three any other player in Cup, where Tunisia Usually restricted to time top scorers behind this year for one last
previous AFCON finals. the German league. reached the final. cameos off the bench. Issam Jemaa’s tally of 36. big payday.
86 68
17 13
ALSO IN CONTENTION
GOALKEEPERS Mouez HASSEN (Club Africain), Ali JEMAL (Etoile Sahel)
DEFENDERS Ali ABDI (Caen, Fra), Mohamed Amine BEN HAMIDA (Esperance), Adam BEN LAMIN
Youssef MSAKNI Naim SLITI (Jonkoping, Swe), Oussama HADDADI (Greuther Furth, Ger), Wajdi KECHRIDA (Atromitos, Gre),
Al Arabi (Qat) Al Ettifaq (KSA) Hamza MATHLOUTHI (Zamalek, Egy), Yassine MERIAH (Esperance)
Age 32 (28.10.90) Age 30 (27.07.92)
Captain and dribbling wizard Left-sided attacker MIDFIELDERS Firas BEN LARBI (Ajman Club, UAE), Mohamed Ali BEN ROMDHANE (Esperance),
who famously turned down from Marseille who has Saad BGUIR (Abha, KSA), Chaim EL DJEBALI (Lyon, Fra), Alaa GHRAM (CS Sfaxien), Hamza RAFIA (Juventus, Ita)
the chance to play in Europe accumulated almost 70
a decade ago to move to caps since his debut in FORWARDS Sayfallah LTAIEF (Basel, Sui), Yoann TOUZGHAR (Ajaccio, Fra)
Qatar, where he has been 2016. Started more games
since 2012. Missed Russia in WC qualifying than any
2018 with a knee injury. other Tunisian attacker.

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> UNITED STATES
Soccer stars
The 2026 World Cup co-hosts want to prove
that they belong with the elite in Qatar
t could be said that the United
I States have never been more

prominent on the world soccer
stage. American players and
coaches are operating in some of
Europe’s top leagues and clubs,
Next generation...
Brenden Aaronson
has impressed
at Leeds United
while Major League Soccer is

attracting high-profile names.
The men’s national team will be
aiming to further boost the global
perception of American soccer with
a strong showing in Qatar, and will
especially be eyeing their game
against England as an opportunity
to make a statement.
It was imperative ahead of co-hosting
the next men’s World Cup, in 2026,
that the US gained some traction by
qualifying for Qatar. They achieved this Brenden Aaronson and Yunus Musah
perhaps slightly more comfortably than are getting in their groove with Leeds
their final position as the third of three
United and Valencia respectively.
automatic qualifiers suggests but were Berhalter has big decisions to make
not always wholly convincing, either. at both ends of the pitch when it comes
They avoided having to go through to selecting his goalkeeper and striker.
an inter-confederational play-off by The latter position could be rotated with
finishing ahead of Costa Rica on goal FC Dallas attacker Jesus Ferreira looking
difference but had all but qualified by like the best fit for the system, while Haji
the time of their final game against the Wright, Jordan Pefok and Josh Sargent
Central American side (which they lost). have been among the forwards in good
form for their European clubs.
A possible problem for Gregg Berhalter
is that some of his players may not get Supporters will expect their team
many minutes for their clubs ahead of to make it out of the group and will
the World Cup. This could be seen as be keenly anticipating the clash with
England as they
look to show
It was imperative ahead of co-hosting the world how
the next men’s World Cup, in 2026, far American
that the US gained some traction by soccer has
qualifying for Qatar. They achieved come after
failing to qualify
this perhaps slightly more comfortably for the previous
than their final position suggests tournament.
James Nalton
a positive as players will not be going
into the tournament carrying injuries,
or as a negative, because they might GREGG BERHALTER away and beating them at home, and Costa
Rica tying them away. It’s a highly-competitive
not be match sharp. region and you’ve got to be up for every game.
Star man Christian Pulisic has What are your reflections on qualifying?
struggled to secure a starting berth It was a great learning experience to see our This pool of players is considered one
guys battle through not only the difficulties of the most talented in US history.
at Chelsea, goalkeeper Matt Turner
of the games, but adversity with injuries. It Does that bring extra pressure?
impressed with New England Revolution was great to see how we responded and, in No, it doesn’t. It is a talented group, but it’s
but now finds himself second choice the end, we really grew together as a team. also a young group. We will be the youngest
at Arsenal, and potential first-choice team in the World Cup, and it’s very hard
centre-back Chris Richards has a Did the four points v Mexico represent to expect a young team to win the World
a shift in the region’s balance of power? Cup. So, for us, there’s no pressure.
back-up role at Crystal Palace.
The region is strong. I wouldn’t just point to
On the other hand, the coach will the two games in qualifying against Mexico. Chelsea’s Christian Pulisic has struggled
be buoyed by the return to action of Gio I’d also look at the two finals that we won for playing time. Does that worry you?
Reyna at Borussia Dortmund following against them, look at Canada tying Mexico Christian is a competitor. He finds a way to
injury, while other gifted young players

Soccer stars...
Christian Pulisic
celebrates scoring
during qualifying
get on the field and make an impact. He’s The Iran tie, a repeat of France ’98, I’ve been around long enough to know that
done that throughout his years in Dortmund, stands out for its political undertones. anything can happen, and we’ll be focused
and he’s done that at Chelsea. He shows up What do you expect from that match? on playing our best possible game.
at big moments and scores big goals both We’re focused on the soccer side of it. We’re 2010 World Cup...
for the national team and for his club. not making that political connection. We’re Clint Dempsey scores Is a good World Cup result important
looking at it as the last game of the group, against England with the US being co-hosts in 2026?
What are your thoughts on Group B? and hopefully we’re playing to get through. in South Africa A good World Cup result is important to
Wales are a team with a lot of experience, a inspire the public and to build
very physical team that doesn’t give up a lot What are the US’ ambitions? momentum, but also for us it’s
of chances. England are probably one of the We’re looking at this as two the culmination of all the hard
favourites to win the tournament. They are separate tournaments. The first is work that the group has put
a “billion-dollar squad” and a well-coached a group-stage tournament where into the last four years. We’re
team. Then finally Iran are returning to the we want to finish in the top two, doing it to inspire the public,
World Cup after a 2018 appearance and are and if we finish in the top two and we’re also doing it for
experienced. They’re also a good defensive we earn the right to play in the ourselves and our country.
team and will be difficult to break down. knockout stage. In the knockouts, Samindra Kunti

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> UNITED STATES
TACTICS SCHEDULE
PRE-WORLD CUP
High pressing, high energy Sep 23
0-2 v Japan
(Dusseldorf)
Sep 27
regg Berhalter will set up his 0-0 v Saudi Arabia
G team to dominate possession

in the matches against Iran and
Wales, but will likely prioritise
their pressing game against England and
if they progress to the knockout rounds.
(Murcia)
Both approaches are usually carried

out from a 4-3-3 shape which will Warm-up...Pulisic
be flexible enough to accommodate a takes on Saudi Arabia
false nine and a more attacking or more GROUP GAMES
defensive midfield three depending on Nov 21
the opponent. They often play a high line, v Wales
but the effectiveness of this can vary and (Al Rayyan)
isn’t always 100 per cent convincing. Nov 25
v England
A bunch of lively attackers, including (Al Khor)
Brenden Aaronson who has been well- Nov 29
schooled in the pressing game at Jesse v Iran
Marsch’s Leeds United, will cause problems (Doha)
for opposition defenders should a team try
to play out from the back. At the same
time, an opposition side that manages to
beat this press could find some joy if the
American defence becomes isolated.
The coach has also experimented with
inverted full-backs in the past, and this
A. Robinson
could happen on the left depending on
who is back-up to Antonee Robinson. It Star man...Pulisic Pulisic
could well be a right-footer. There is a has been out of
club football feel to Berhalter’s tactics, favour at Chelsea
so how well players absorb information Long McKennie
from previous camps could be key.
Steffen Adams Ferreira
Zimmerman Aaronson
Weah
Dest
First-choice left-back
...Antonee Robinson
THE VIEW FROM UNITED STATES COACH

“There’s no clear starter at striker or Gregg BERHALTER
Well-travelled...
goalkeeper, and the centre-back depth Gregg Berhalter Age 49 (01.08.73)
isn’t sorted. Still, the talent in attack and Appointed December 2018
midfield keeps the expectation that the
US will join England out of Group B and, Berhalter’s well-travelled playing career
depending on the Group A match-up, a took him from North Carolina to Europe,
serious threat to return to the quarter- including stops in the Netherlands and
finals for the first time since 2002.” Germany. A short spell at Crystal Palace
Jeff Rueter, staff writer, The Athletic saw him become the first player to
represent the South London club at
“The USA returns to the World Cup with a World Cup thanks to his presence
some pressure, though the main pressure in the USMNT squad in 2002. Once
is to have arrived at all. The expectation moving into coaching he impressed
now is for this generationally talented, but with Columbus Crew in MLS after a
incredibly young squad to remain past the spell with Swedish side Hammarby,
group stage. I think they’ll manage that.” and now brings a learned approach
Meg Swanick, US soccer writer, to the national team, with variations
The Philadelphia Inquirer of pressing and possession football.

10 29 20 28 11 19
0 0 0 1 0 2
Sean JOHNSON Zack STEFFEN Matt TURNER Reggie CANNON Cameron CARTER-VICKERS Sergino DEST
New York City FC Middlesbrough (Eng) Arsenal (Eng) Boavista (Por) Celtic (Sco) Milan (Ita)
GOALKEEPERS
DEFENDERS
Was named MVP in Left Manchester City The best shot-stopper Offers balance as a Could yet be a starter Full-back who can play
the MLS Cup final as on loan in the summer in in the pool of USMNT defensive right-back for his country thanks to left or right. Joined Milan
his New York City side search of game time ahead goalkeepers but there are if Antonee Robinson his form for Celtic in Ange from Barcelona looking to
claimed the trophy last of the tournament. Will it question marks around attacks down the left. Postecoglou’s much-lauded reclaim his status as a key
year. Currently behind pay off? Better with his his distribution. Time Recently been playing system. Didn’t feature in USMNT player. Shared right-
Steffen and Turner in feet than Matt Turner, his at Arsenal, albeit as right centre-back in qualifying, but started June’s back duties with DeAndre
the pecking order. main rival for the gloves. back-up, may help. a three for his club. Nations League games. Yedlin in the qualifiers.
29 8 29 7 75 33
3 0 2 0 0 3
Aaron LONG Chris RICHARDS Antonee ROBINSON James SANDS DeAndre YEDLIN Walker ZIMMERMAN
New York Red Bulls Crystal Palace (Eng) Fulham (Eng) Rangers (Sco) Inter Miami Nashville SC
Berhalter likes his recovery With defensive mainstay Much-improved English- Plays mostly at centre-back The most-capped player in A Designated Player at
pace which suits a high line. Miles Robinson ruled out born left-back who played for Rangers, but an ability the current group. May only Nashville, the seasoned
His inclusion may surprise with a torn Achilles tendon, his youth football with to fill in as a defensive be back-up at right-back, MLS centre-back was
some but he could even Richards might be the Everton and has found his midfielder could make him but brings experience to named the league’s
be a starter. A ruptured most complete USMNT feet at Fulham after stints a useful squad addition. a young team. Previously Defender of the Year in
Achilles ruled him out of centre-back. Can fill in at Bolton Wanderers and Another who rarely at Newcastle, Tottenham 2020 and 2021. First
the majority of qualifying. all across the back line. Wigan Athletic. Likely starter. featured in qualifying. and Sunderland. choice in qualifying.
53 32 12 37 19 32
2 1 0 9 0 0
Kellyn ACOSTA Tyler ADAMS Luca DE LA TORRE Weston McKENNIE Yunus MUSAH Cristian ROLDAN
Los Angeles FC Leeds United (Eng) Celta Vigo (Spa) Juventus (Ita) Valencia (Spa) Seattle Sounders
MIDFIELDERS
More than adequate Has been a great signing A clever, lively midfielder An aerial threat at set- Arguably the best Out injured in the build-up
back-up to Tyler Adams, for Premier League club when he’s on his game and pieces and a likely starter in footballer in the group. to the tournament but has
the LAFC midfielder now Leeds United, recapturing troubles opponents with midfield. Played his entire The technically-gifted been a Berhalter favourite
has more than 50 caps his form as a standout his pressing and passing. club career abroad and has teenager, who represented as a versatile option from
for his country. Often defensive midfielder. Spotted by Fulham at the top-level Champions League England at youth level, the bench. Younger brother
used as a substitute to Can also play as a age of 15 before joining experience with Schalke spent seven years with Alex plays for El Salvador
help see out games. makeshift right-back. Dutch club Heracles. and now Juventus. Arsenal as a youth. at international level.
24 48 15 9 52 14
6 10 7 1 21 4
Brenden AARONSON Paul ARRIOLA Jesus FERREIRA Jordan PEFOK Christian PULISIC Giovanni REYNA
Leeds United (Eng) FC Dallas FC Dallas Union Berlin (Ger) Chelsea (Eng) Borussia Dortmund (Ger)
FORWARDS
Now eclipsing Pulisic A quick, busy and hard- Colombian-born attacker Has stepped into Taiwo Still young and still the Another highly-rated young
as the best USMNT working winger. Likely to who operates somewhere Awoniyi’s boots with main star for the United player, and has plenty of
attacker and could be feature for those reasons between an attacking aplomb at Union Berlin. States despite a bit-part Bundesliga experience. Back
the first name on the despite hot competition for midfielder and a striker, Emerging as a genuine role at Chelsea. Regularly in action after recovering
team sheet. Offers places with attackers like so can suit Berhalter’s option up front but was captains the team and from injury. Born in England
relentless pressing Ricardo Pepi and Jordan system well as a false nine. ignored for the September helps take the weight and the son of USMNT
and direct attacking. Morris also in the frame. Good scoring record so far. international window. off others’ shoulders. legend Claudio Reyna.
20 25
5 3
ALSO IN CONTENTION
GOALKEEPERS Ethan HORVATH (Luton Town, Eng), Gabriel SLONINA (Chicago Fire)
DEFENDERS George BELLO (Arminia Bielefeld, Ger), Mark McKENZIE (Genk, Bel), Erik PALMER-BROWN
Josh SARGENT Timothy WEAH (Troyes, Fra), Tim REAM (Fulham, Eng), Miles ROBINSON (Atlanta United) – injured, Joe SCALLY (Borussia
Norwich City (Eng) Lille (Fra) Monchengladbach, Ger), John TOLKIN (New York Red Bulls), Sam VINES (Antwerp, Bel)
Age 22 (20.02.00) Age 22 (22.02.00) MIDFIELDERS Gianluca BUSIO (Venezia, Ita), Johnny CARDOSO (Internacional, Bra),
Finding form in the English A potential difference- Sebastian LLETGET (FC Dallas), Djordje MIHAILOVIC (CF Montreal, Can), Malik
Championship and, more maker if he can find TILLMAN (Rangers, Sco), Eryk WILLIAMSON (Portland Timbers)
importantly, scoring goals the right spaces to get
which could see a late surge involved in the attack. FORWARDS Daryl DIKE (West Brom, Eng), Jordan MORRIS (Seattle Sounders), Ricardo PEPI (Groningen, Ned),
for selection. Previously Can play wide or centrally. Brandon VAZQUEZ (FC Cincinnati), Haji WRIGHT (Antalyaspor, Tur), Gyasi ZARDES (Colorado Rapids)
played for Bundesliga Son of former Ballon d’Or
side Werder Bremen. winner George Weah.

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> URUGUAY
Changing of the guard

New coach Diego Alonso must find the right
blend of Uruguay’s old and new generations
t might be thought that after a
I three-year cycle with 18 qualifiers

plus two versions of the Copa
America, teams would be going
to the World Cup with the big issues
worked out, and the coach just needing
a bit of tinkering around the edges. For
most, maybe, but that certainly does
not apply to Uruguay, where Diego
Alonso has plenty to think about.
The stakes are high and the margin
for error is small. Since their reboot
under Oscar Washington Tabarez,
Uruguay have roared back to the
game’s top table in a way that few
thought possible some 15 years ago.
In two of the last three World Cups, Old guard...
statistically at least, Uruguay were Luis Suarez,
Diego Godin and
South America’s best side – a barely Edinson Cavani
credible achievement for a country
with such a small population. Tabarez
was seduced into staying on after Russia then Alonso has been shuffling his
2018 – in Qatar he would still be able pack. How many of the veterans can
to count on his old guard (Luis Suarez, he play? This is not just a question
Edinson Cavani and Diego Godin), while of personnel. It also has a profound
the impressive midfield unit would impact on the shape of the side.
have come into maturity. All of this makes Uruguay intriguing
But he never quite got the balance and unpredictable. And they are
right, and in the end he was forced out definitely dangerous. There is genuine
by a combination of injuries and the quality in defence (although a spate of
fixture list. Home and away against centre-back injuries is a worry), midfield
Argentina, away to Brazil and the and up front, and if Alonso can find
dreaded trip to Bolivia was a nightmare the right blend then they can set their
run which brought four demoralising sights at least as high as in 2018, when
they eliminated
the European
Diego Alonso has been shuffling his champions on the
pack. How many of the veterans can way to quarter-final
he play? All of this makes Uruguay defeat against the
intriguing and unpredictable. And team that would
go on to lift
they are definitely dangerous the trophy.
Tim Vickery
defeats and forced a change. The
most embarrassing was away to Brazil.
The game was scarcely a contest. With DIEGO ALONSO introduction of Facundo Pellistri, who
hasn’t been getting a lot of game time.
Suarez and Cavani up front and (with What made you think of him?
Jose Maria Gimenez and Ronald Araujo It can’t have been easy stepping I pay a lot of attention to the characteristics
out injured) Godin and Sebastian Coates in after the 15-year reign of Oscar of the players. With Pellistri, I understood
Washington Tabarez. What have you that we needed a player to operate on the
at the back, Brazil licked their lips. “Two
retained from his time in charge? wings, with speed and good one-on-one
slow strikers, two slow centre-backs,” The sense of belonging that the players skills. I’ve had a look at some others with
said a member of their coaching staff. have, of being part of a team representing these characteristics, but based on our
And so in came Diego Alonso to a country. It’s really striking, and worth observations we had confidence in Pellistri.
end the crisis and steer the ship over highlighting. You really get a sense of this
feeling, which is totally the merit of Tabarez. What did you make of the draw,
the line. Wins away to Paraguay and
with Portugal, Ghana and South
at home to Venezuela and Peru were You were quick to make a few changes Korea your opponents in Group H?
good enough to clinch qualification, in personnel. One of the most surprising We’re in a very strong, well-balanced
but the opponents lacked the quality – and immediately successful – was the group, where all four teams have a
to pose the serious questions. Since

Changing of the
guard...Suarez and
Cavani celebrate
with rising star
Facundo Pellistri
realistic chance of making it through to That word – preparation – appears Fresh face do you think Uruguay can go?
the knockout rounds. We’re excited by almost like a religion to your ...Pellistri For me it’s very simple. I feel it and the
it, and we want to beat the teams that approach and philosophy players feel
we’re up against. But I think it’s very towards coaching. it. We want
difficult to predict what will happen. If you want to be it, then to be world
you have to prepare for champions.
They are all teams that Uruguay have it. Everyone says that the We are a team
played in recent World Cups. Is there most important thing in full of dreams,
anything you don’t know about them? football is winning. Some and we believe
The names of their wives! We know say it’s the only thing. I go in ourselves.
everything, or try to. We try to get our one step further. The most Uruguay go
hands on the best information, but we important thing in football to Qatar with
don’t want to suffocate the players with is preparing to win. the aim of
too much. We pass on to the players what winning the
we think is necessary, because the most And what is your World World Cup.
important part is our own preparation. Cup objective? How far Tim Vickery

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> URUGUAY
TACTICS SCHEDULE
PRE-WORLD CUP
More questions than answers Sep 23
0-1 v Uruguay
(St Polten)
Sep 27
ruguay could offer a variety 2-0 v Canada
U of different systems, changing

between and during matches
in accordance with the
situation, the objectives and whether
they want to press high or drop deep.
(Bratislava)
Alonso qualified the team with a

base of the traditional 4-4-2, but this Rematch...Cavani
was against relatively weak opposition. knocked Portugal
out of Russia 2018
They often look better, in possession and
defensively, with three in the centre of GROUP GAMES
midfield, while another option is to have Nov 24
two playmakers behind a centre-forward. v South Korea
(Al Rayyan)
Starting with the veteran strike pairing of
Nov 28
Suarez and Cavani is now unlikely, but the v Portugal
rise of Darwin Nunez could change things, (Lusail)
since he offers more mobility. It would be Dec 2
a big call to leave out Suarez and play v Ghana
(Al Wakrah)
Nunez as the lone striker. Can Nunez be
left out? Does it come down to a choice
between him and a playmaker? Should
Alonso want a front pair, he has the option
of playing with a back three, which would
also permit a midfield trio and make it
easier to accommodate Godin – captain
Olivera
and team leader but clearly in decline –
since he can then play in reduced space. Tough midfield... De Arrascaeta
There are plenty of decisions still to be Fede Valverde and
Rodrigo Bentancur Valverde
taken, but Alonso may enjoy the range of
battle for the ball Gimenez
options at his disposal and come up with
a different plan for every game.
Rochet Vecino L. Suarez
Araujo
Bentancur
Pellistri
D. Suarez
Last hurrah...
Luis Suarez
THE VIEW FROM URUGUAY COACH

“This is a special World Cup for Uruguay. Diego ALONSO
Instant impact
It’s the last one for big names like Suarez ...Diego Alonso Age 47 (16.04.75)
and Cavani, and there are also younger Appointed December 2021
players, such as Valverde and Nunez.
The resources are there in the squad “Tornado” Alonso was a lanky, nomadic
to go far in the competition, but they centre-forward, briefly an international,
have been drawn into a very even group best known for spells at Atletico Madrid
so nothing can be taken for granted.” and Valencia. He began coaching in 2011,
Juan Pablo Romero, El Pais and has worked in Uruguay, Paraguay,
Mexico (with great success, winning two
“Uruguay are an enigma. There’s CONCACAF Champions Leagues) and
enough talent to believe in a good the USA before taking charge of Uruguay
campaign but Group H is very balanced. at the end of last year. Notably reluctant
The coach has not been there for long, to complain about referees, he has an
and it’s not yet clear how he’s going to interesting relationship with Oscar Ortega,
deal with the generation of veterans Atletico Madrid’s highly-rated Uruguayan
who will soon be leaving the scene.” physical preparation specialist, who came
Martin Fernandez, TV Globo on board for the end of the qualifiers.

133 8 1 12 115 2
0 0 0 0 4 0
Fernando MUSLERA Sergio ROCHET Sebastian SOSA Ronald ARAUJO Martin CACERES Sebastian CACERES
Galatasaray (Tur) Nacional Independiente (Arg) Barcelona (Spa) LA Galaxy (USA) America (Mex)
GOALKEEPERS
DEFENDERS
First choice since Neither a success in Stocky, charismatic keeper Strapping centre- Defender whose A graduate of Uruguay’s
2009, combining reflex the Netherlands (AZ) or who had to wait until the back whose pace and combative spirit and Under-20 side who is in
saves with occasional Turkey (Sivasspor), but has age of 35 to receive his quality are becoming versatility have often been contention, along with the
blunders. Injured for the established himself since first senior international increasingly important. valued more by country likes of Agustin Rogel, as a
last few qualifiers – all moving back home three call-up. Competing with Also used at right-back. than by a sequence of consequence of the injury
under Diego Alonso. Will years ago. Solid, although Martin Campana for the Will be rushed back clubs. Can fill any position crisis at centre-back. Did
he get his place back? not especially agile. second reserve slot. from a thigh operation. in a back three or four. very well in September.
47 78 159 8 7 26
1 8 8 0 0 0
Sebastian COATES Jose Maria GIMENEZ Diego GODIN Mathias OLIVERA Damian SUAREZ Matias VINA
Sporting (Por) Atletico Madrid (Spa) Velez Sarsfield (Arg) Napoli (Ita) Getafe (Spa) Roma (Ita)
Giant centre-back who has Defensive lynchpin who Uruguay’s all-time most Strong, quick, versatile Tough little right-back Left-back who did well in
spent over a decade in the was fast-tracked into the capped player, a fixture left-back successfully with over a decade of Brazil before moving to Italy.
squad, mostly as a reserve, senior side after shining since before the 2007 introduced to the team at solid service in Spain who Was first choice, including
since his lack of pace can at the 2013 Under-20 Copa America. Combative the start of the year. Has had to wait until the age starting every game at the
be exposed at the highest World Cup and, injury and intelligent, but has run now usurped Matias Vina. of 33 for his first senior 2021 Copa America, until
level. Previously played for allowing, has been a into injury problems and is Moved to Italy after doing cap. Looks to be ahead a poor display away to
Liverpool and Sunderland. fixture ever since. now clearly past his best. well with Getafe. of Guillermo Varela. Brazil late last year.
12 51 40 17 7 40
0 1 8 2 0 0
Mauro ARAMBARRI Rodrigo BENTANCUR Giorgian DE ARRASCAETA Nicolas DE LA CRUZ Facundo PELLISTRI Lucas TORREIRA
Getafe (Spa) Tottenham Hotspur (Eng) Flamengo (Bra) River Plate (Arg) Manchester United (Eng) Galatasaray (Tur)
MIDFIELDERS
Fiery box-to-box Lanky and elegant Subtle, talented playmaker Squat attacking midfielder Attacking midfielder Snappy central midfielder
midfielder frequently central midfielder adept who is one of Uruguay’s and a set-piece specialist surprisingly and very who has not quite lived up
used as a second-half at dictating the rhythm great enigmas. Outstanding with a rocket shot, who has successfully introduced at to the hype but remains a
substitute to maintain of the game from deep. for his club, but after eight thrown off injury problems the start of the year on the useful reserve for Vecino.
intensity. Now in his sixth Started all but two of the years his capacity to tip the in time to fight for a place. right wing. Hit by an early Joined Arsenal after Russia
season with Getafe after qualifiers – only Diego balance at the top level 2018 Libertadores winner, season injury and still yet to 2018 but things didn’t work
a spell at Bordeaux. Godin played more. is still questioned. but didn’t play in the final. break through at club level. out for him in North London.
6 44 62 133 27 13
0 4 4 58 4 3
Manuel UGARTE Federico VALVERDE Matias VECINO Edinson CAVANI Maxi GOMEZ Darwin NUNEZ
Sporting (Por) Real Madrid (Spa) Lazio (Ita) Valencia (Spa) Valencia (Spa) Liverpool (Eng)
FORWARDS
Classy central midfielder The first of the new Tall, combative midfielder “El Matador” has served Bull-like striker who, until Rising force, tall and
and a fine striker of the generation of midfielders used in the holding role. for over a decade with a the rise of Darwin Nunez, mobile, who adds quality
ball who made his to be promoted to the A threat in the air with his remarkable lack of ego. was seen as the successor and options to Alonso,
Uruguayan first division senior side, but not fit well-timed runs. Now with Left it late to join a new to the Suarez-Cavani duo. but also headaches as the
debut at the age of 15 for enough for Russia 2018. his fifth Serie A club after club, and may have Seems to have fallen from coach tries to sift through
Fenix. Seen as the long- Set to make up for it this previous spells at Cagliari, fallen down the favour, but remains an the top-quality centre-
term successor to Vecino. time. Key midfield dynamo. Empoli, Fiorentina and Inter. pecking order. option on the bench. forwards at his disposal.
4 134
1 68
ALSO IN CONTENTION
GOALKEEPERS Martin CAMPANA (Al Batin, KSA)
DEFENDERS Leandro CABRERA (Espanyol, Spa), Giovanni GONZALEZ (Mallorca, Spa), Joaquin
Diego ROSSI Luis SUAREZ PIQUEREZ (Palmeiras, Bra), Agustin ROGEL (Hertha Berlin, Ger), Guillermo VARELA (Flamengo, Bra)
Fenerbahce (Tur) Nacional
Age 24 (05.03.98) Age 35 (24.01.87) MIDFIELDERS Fernando GORRIARAN (Santos Laguna, Mex), Facundo TORRES (Orlando City, USA)
Quick little winger with “El Pistolero” – Uruguay’s
an eye for goal, who was all-time top scorer who FORWARDS Agustin ALVAREZ (Sassuolo, Ita), Agustin CANOBBIO (Athletico Paranaense, Bra), Brian
brought into the set-up by moved back home after OCAMPO (Cadiz, Spa), Jonathan RODRIGUEZ (America, Mex), Martin SATRIANO (Empoli, Ita)
Alonso as a solution to the eight seasons in Spain
squad’s lack of attacking in a bid to keep himself
pace. MLS Golden Boot sharp for his fourth
winner with LAFC in 2019. and final World Cup.

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> WALES
History beckons
Wales finally return to the top table of
international football after a 64-year wait
t’s hard to put it into
“I words,” said midfielder

Joe Allen as the rain
poured down at the
Cardiff City Stadium back in June.
“This is what we’ve been dreaming
Talismanic...
Gareth Bale
of for a long time.” But not even the

unseasonal weather could dampen
the celebrations as the 1-0 win over
Ukraine in the play-off final confirmed
that Wales had finally ended a 64-year
wait to return to the world stage. No
other nation in the history of the game
has spent so long between appearances
at the World Cup finals, but decades of
heartache will finally be forgotten this
winter as Rob Page and his squad
head to Qatar.
Inspired by the great John Charles, dedication of playing for their country
Jimmy Murphy’s side would reach the has never been in doubt, Page will
quarter-finals of the World Cup in 1958 need his best players to be at their
before losing to eventual winners Brazil, physical peak for what will be an
when a talented teenager called Pele intense tournament, and with limited
scored the only goal in a 1-0 victory. preparation time prior to the opening
Murphy was a product of the Rhondda, game it is crucial that they arrive in
a hard-working community in the Qatar match fit.
Welsh valleys that has suffered tough Wales ended a 58-year
economic times but is renowned for wait to appear at the finals of a
sporting talent, and current manager major tournament in 2016 and
Page was born and bred within three subsequently reached the semi-finals
miles of Murphy’s former home. It of the European Championship that
is a connection that brings two very year in France. It was an inspired
different generations together, and the summer for a talented generation,
committed and dedicated work ethic but there is more strength-in-depth
to Wales this time
around, and if this
No other nation in the history of team can gain
the game has spent so long between momentum from
appearances at the World Cup finals, their opening
but decades of heartache will finally games, then
anything
be forgotten this winter is possible.
Mark Pitman
that defines Page and his squad is
a fitting representation of his family
roots and the values he inherited. ROB PAGE into coaching for your country is another
real honour and, if you can manage it, it’s
Charles missed the quarter-final just the icing on the cake. It’s the pinnacle.
defeat to Brazil in 1958 through injury, As a proud Welshman, what does
and generations have wondered what it mean to you to have played for How do you feel standing on
and to now manage your country? the touchline when the anthem
might have been. For Page, the fitness
It’s a great honour. It’s the best honour starts before each game?
of talismanic captain Gareth Bale remains when you know your family is up in the I’m a wreck. I’m not going to lie. It’s
key to what his side can achieve, and stand, and you know you’ve got friends an emotional song. For me it’s the best
his new zest for football in Los Angeles and family back home watching it on TV. anthem in the world, and I know I’m
offers grounds for optimism. Likewise, It means a hell of a lot, it really does. And biased, but I firmly believe that. I’m in a
then obviously to captain the team was privileged position, seeing the reaction of
influential midfielder Aaron Ramsey
another great honour – I’ve got the jersey the opposition when the music starts and
is enjoying his football again in Nice, framed, and the armband, and it’s up then it stops, and our supporters sing it.
while defenders Joe Rodon and Neco in the house at the moment. So, again, They’re in awe of it, they are, absolutely.
Williams have made important moves another great moment for me. To go It’s an emotional time because you’ve
in search of regular football. While the

Jubilant...Wales
players celebrate
after beating
Ukraine in the
play-offs
got all that pressure, not knowing how it’s well and win games with them. So it’s History...Wales ago we might have been fazed by
going to start or how the game’s going to encouraging to know that you’ve got lost to Brazil in the the big occasions. That shows how
go. There’s a lot of pressure on it, but the that luxury to be able to change, but quarter-finals of the far we’ve come. We’re still growing
supporters play a massive part in that. key principles are the same. We’ve got 1958 World Cup and we’re still nurturing these young
an identity in how we want to play players and exposing
How much does this team now reflect and how we want to go about our them. So we’re achieving
you and how you want to play? game, and that’s not changed. a lot, but we have to
We started with a 4-2-3-1 formation and manage expectations
we evolved it slightly. At this moment in What have you learned about as well. We’re on the
time, we find ourselves playing with three your players and their ability rise at the minute and
at the back. That’s not to say that we’re to handle the big occasion? Welsh football is in
not going to go back to a back four; we Nothing has surprised me with a really good place,
might do. It depends on the opposition them. I knew that by having that but we’re continuing
and what players we’ve got available, sort of attitude in the changing to build and it’s
but what we’ve shown is we can now room that we’d be all right in the a long process.
play in both formations really, really big games, whereas maybe years Mark Pitman

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> WALES
TACTICS SCHEDULE
PRE-WORLD CUP
Versatile and adaptable Sep 22
1-2 v Belgium
(Brussels)
Sep 25
ob Page has experimented with 0-1 v Poland
R different systems, formations

and personnel. The tactical
diversity means that Wales
have the capability and experience to
adapt as required during the tournament,
(Cardiff)
but the qualifying campaign saw Page

settle on a 3-4-2-1 which brings the Rematch...Wales
best out of his versatile wide players. faced Belgium
in qualifying
With Connor Roberts and Neco Williams
expected to occupy those wide positions, GROUP GAMES
Wales have an abundance of attacking Nov 21
pace in possession and the energy v United States
(Al Rayyan)
levels to defend effectively when they
Nov 25
don’t have the ball, and it is interesting v Iran
to note how Nottingham Forest manager (Al Rayyan)
Steve Cooper has utilised Williams in Nov 29
a similar way having signed him v England
(Al Rayyan)
from Liverpool in the summer.
One tactical question yet to be
answered is how to get the best out of
Aaron Ramsey. A pivotal player in Wales’
recent success, his best performances were
behind the striker in the previous 4-2-3-1
formation, but he has proved to be less
N. Williams
effective when lining up in the current
system, either in a defensive midfield Tactical question B. Davies James
role or as one of the trident of attackers ...Aaron Ramsey
that rotate positions during the course
of the match. Page will be desperate Ramsey
to find a solution before November.
Hennessey Rodon Moore
Allen
Ampadu Bale
C. Roberts
Energetic wing-backs
...Connor Roberts
and Neco Williams
THE VIEW FROM WALES COACH

“It’s a qualifiable group, although I’d hope Rob PAGE
Difficult
by the time the England game comes circumstances Age 48 (03.09.74)
around we’d have done enough to get ...Rob Page Appointed November 2020
through. Whatever, we must be optimistic
about the future of Welsh football. We’re The ex-U21 manager took over from
a football movement and we want people Ryan Giggs in difficult circumstances, but
to be on the journey with us.” quickly guided his country to Nations
Noel Mooney, CEO Football League promotion and through the group
Association of Wales stage of the last Euros. A popular and
honest figure, Page was a no-nonsense
“After Euro 2016 I’m hesitant to put a defender during his playing career and
barrier on what Wales can achieve. They manages his side in a similar style. After
will be optimistic of getting out of the a period of tactical experimentation, Page
group, and then who knows. It will be has settled on an effective system and,
tough, but if they can raise themselves having masterminded WC qualification
to anything near those heights then it with a play-off victory over Ukraine on
could be another memorable adventure.” a famous night in Cardiff, he’s earned
Rob Phillips, BBC Sport Wales his place in Welsh football folklore.

3 106 26 37 74 109
0 0 0 0 1 0
Adam DAVIES Wayne HENNESSEY Danny WARD Ethan AMPADU Ben DAVIES Chris GUNTER
Sheffield United (Eng) Nottingham Forest (Eng) Leicester City (Eng) Spezia (Ita) Tottenham Hotspur (Eng) AFC Wimbledon (Eng)
GOALKEEPERS
DEFENDERS
Made his Wales debut Veteran of over 100 Talented shot-stopper Talented ball player who Experienced and important Hugely-popular member of
in a friendly against international appearances now playing regularly for is equally comfortable in figure who has got even the squad and a cult hero
Trinidad & Tobago in and the hero of the World Leicester City, although defence or midfield. Has better under Antonio Conte with the Wales fans. Offers
March 2019 but remains Cup play-off final victory he endured a torrid start already played club at Spurs. Can play centre- experience and can play all
third choice for the over Ukraine. Second to the season. Played football in England, back or left-back and made across the defensive line.
national team behind choice at Euro 2020 but all four games for his Germany and Italy. his senior international Made his Wales bow as
Hennessey and Ward. will be No.1 in Qatar. country at Euro 2020. Sent off at Euro 2020. debut in October 2012. a 17-year-old in 2007.
33 13 41 30 23 72
0 1 3 0 2 2
Chris MEPHAM Rhys NORRINGTON-DAVIES Connor ROBERTS Joe RODON Neco WILLIAMS Joe ALLEN
Bournemouth (Eng) Sheffield United (Eng) Burnley (Eng) Rennes (Fra) Nottingham Forest (Eng) Swansea City
MIDFIELDERS
A consistent performer Exciting left wing-back A key player in Rob A talented defender who Promoted to the senior A key player in the
when called upon, centre- who can defend and Page’s tactical system joined French club Rennes squad as a teenager in middle of the park,
back Mepham came attack from wide positions. with his high-energy on loan during the summer September 2020 and has Allen was one of the
through the intermediate Opportunities have been levels allowing him to push with his career seemingly established himself in the star performers at
ranks and is a regular limited due to the form forward in possession. appearing to stall at starting line-up since. Euro 2016 when Wales
member of the squad. of Neco Williams. Has also Famously scored against Tottenham. A natural Impressing at Forest after reached the semi-finals.
First choice at Euro 2020. covered for Ben Davies. Turkey at Euro 2020. leader in the back line. leaving Liverpool in July. Dubbed the “Welsh Xavi.”
21 7 13 30 75 19
2 1 0 0 20 0
David BROOKS Rubin COLWILL Dylan LEVITT Joe MORRELL Aaron RAMSEY Matthew SMITH
Bournemouth (Eng) Cardiff City Dundee United (Sco) Portsmouth (Eng) Nice (Fra) MK Dons (Eng)
Continuing his recovery A surprise choice for the One of the brightest Despite having his club One of the most talented A talented youngster who
from Hodgkin lymphoma, Euro 2020 squad, Colwill prospects in the squad, opportunities limited, players of his generation, came through the ranks at
Brooks will be targetting is emerging as an exciting Levitt has found his Morrell has consistently Ramsey has been key to Manchester City, before
to get back on the field player for club and country. chances limited but has raised his game for Wales what Wales have achieved making a permanent
before the World Cup. Limited experience so far impressed since moving to and is trusted by Page to over the past decade. Now move to MK Dons at the
Voted Welsh Footballer in World Cup qualifying and Scotland. Ex-Manchester perform. Started every in France after spells in start of the year following
of the Year in 2018. the UEFA Nations League. United academy graduate. game at Euro 2020. Italy and Scotland. a raft of loan spells.
33 39 108 38 15 5
2 5 40 5 2 0
Jonny WILLIAMS Harry WILSON Gareth BALE Daniel JAMES Brennan JOHNSON Mark HARRIS
Swindon Town (Eng) Fulham (Eng) LAFC (USA) Fulham (Eng) Nottingham Forest (Eng) Cardiff City
FORWARDS
A real fans’ favourite who A versatile figure who can The captain and Usually one of the first An exciting star looking Progressed through the
usually performs when play in midfield or attack, talisman of this Wales names on the team sheet, to make his mark in the intermediate ranks and
called upon, “Joniesta” has Wilson played a key role team. A superstar who James’ pace and versatility Premier League, Johnson has impressed enough on
struggled with injuries but for Fulham as they won the always produces for his in attack has been pivotal has already established his limited appearances to
works tirelessly for Wales. Championship last season. country and plays with a to Wales’ success. Could himself in this Wales earn a place in the squad.
He has featured for eight A free-kick expert with passion for the badge. find his place under threat squad. The son of former Has played for Wrexham,
different teams in the EFL. a wand of a left foot. Wales’ record scorer. from Brennan Johnson. Jamaica striker, David. Newport and Cardiff.
11 28
0 9
ALSO IN CONTENTION
GOALKEEPERS Tom KING (Salford City, Eng)
DEFENDERS Ben CABANGO (Swansea City), Oliver DENHAM (Cardiff City),

Rabbi MATONDO Kieffer MOORE James LAWRENCE (Nuremberg, Ger), Tom LOCKYER (Luton Town, Eng)
Rangers (Sco) Bournemouth (Eng)
Age 22 (09.09.00) Age 30 (08.08.92) MIDFIELDERS Wes BURNS (Ipswich Town, Eng), Luke HARRIS (Fulham, Eng), Jordan JAMES (Birmingham
Former Manchester City The journeyman, now at City, Eng), Sorba THOMAS (Huddersfield Town, Eng), Will VAULKS (Sheffield Wednesday, Eng)
youngster with unmatched his 12th club, proved the
pace. Now settling in to missing piece of the puzzle FORWARDS Nathan BROADHEAD (Wigan Athletic, Eng), Tyler ROBERTS (Queens Park Rangers, Eng)
the latest chapter of his for Wales during Euro 2020
career with Rangers after qualifying. A towering
spells with Schalke, Stoke target in attack with a
City and Cercle Brugge. consistent goal return.

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WORLD CUP 2022 >>> HOW THEY QUALIFIED
ARGENTINA
07.10.21
12.10.21
Australia 3-1 Oman
Japan 2-1 Australia CAMEROON
GROUP P W D L F A Pts 11.11.21 Australia 0-0 Saudi Arabia GROUP D P W D L F A Pts
1 Brazil 17 14 3 0 40 5 45 16.11.21 China 1-1 Australia 1 Cameroon 6 5 0 1 12 3 15
2 Argentina 17 11 6 0 27 8 39 27.01.22 Australia 4-0 Vietnam 2 Ivory Coast 6 4 1 1 10 3 13
3 Uruguay 18 8 4 6 22 22 28 01.02.22 Oman 2-2 Australia 3 Mozambique 6 1 1 4 2 8 4
4 Ecuador 18 7 5 6 27 19 26 24.03.22 Australia 0-2 Japan 4 Malawi 6 1 0 5 2 12 3
5 Peru 18 7 3 8 19 22 24 29.03.22 Saudi Arabia 1-0 Australia
6 Colombia 18 5 8 5 20 19 23 ASIA PLAY-OFF 03.09.21 Cameroon 2-0 Malawi
7 Chile 18 5 4 9 19 26 19 07.06.22 UAE 1-2 Australia 06.09.21 Ivory Coast 2-1 Cameroon
8 Paraguay 18 3 7 8 12 26 16 INTER-CONFEDERATIONAL PLAY-OFF 08.10.21 Cameroon 3-1 Mozambique
9 Bolivia 18 4 3 11 23 42 15 13.06.22 Australia p0-0 Peru 11.10.21 Mozambique 0-1 Cameroon
10 Venezuela 18 3 1 14 14 34 10 13.11.21 Malawi 0-4 Cameroon
09.10.20 Argentina 1-0 Ecuador BELGIUM 16.11.21

PLAY-OFF
Cameroon 1-0 Ivory Coast
13.10.20 Bolivia 1-2 Argentina GROUP E P W D L F A Pts 25.03.22 Cameroon 0-1 Algeria
13.11.20 Argentina 1-1 Paraguay 1 Belgium 8 6 2 0 25 6 20 29.03.22 Algeria 1-2a Cameroon
18.11.20 Peru 0-2 Argentina 2 Wales 8 4 3 1 14 9 15
04.06.21
09.06.21
Argentina
Colombia
1-1
2-2
Chile
Argentina
3 Czech Republic
4 Estonia
8 4 2
8 1 1
2 14 9 14
6 9 21 4 CANADA
03.09.21 Venezuela 1-3 Argentina 5 Belarus 8 1 0 7 7 24 3 1ST RD: GROUP B P W D L F A Pts
10.09.21 Argentina 3-0 Bolivia 1 Canada 4 4 0 0 27 1 12
08.10.21 Paraguay 0-0 Argentina 24.03.21 Belgium 3-1 Wales 2 Suriname 4 3 0 1 15 4 9
11.10.21 Argentina 3-0 Uruguay 27.03.21 Czech Republic 1-1 Belgium 3 Bermuda 4 1 1 2 7 12 4
15.10.21 Argentina 1-0 Peru 30.03.21 Belgium 8-0 Belarus 4 Aruba 4 1 0 3 3 19 3
12.11.21 Uruguay 0-1 Argentina 02.09.21 Estonia 2-5 Belgium 5 Cayman Islands 4 0 1 3 2 18 1
16.11.21 Argentina 0-0 Brazil 05.09.21 Belgium 3-0 Czech Republic
28.01.22 Chile 1-2 Argentina 08.09.21 Belarus 0-1 Belgium 26.03.21 Canada 5-1 Bermuda
01.02.22 Argentina 1-0 Colombia 13.11.21 Belgium 3-1 Estonia 29.03.21 Cayman Islands 0-11 Canada
25.03.22 Argentina 3-0 Venezuela 16.11.21 Wales 1-1 Belgium 06.06.21 Aruba 0-7 Canada
30.03.22 Ecuador 1-1 Argentina 09.06.21 Canada 4-0 Suriname
SECOND ROUND
12.06.21 Haiti 0-1 Canada
16.06.21 Canada 3-0 Haiti
THIRD ROUND P W D L F A Pts

1 Canada 14 8 4 2 23 7 28
2 Mexico 14 8 4 2 17 8 28
3 United States 14 7 4 3 21 10 25
4 Costa Rica 14 7 4 3 13 8 25
5 Panama 14 6 3 5 17 19 21
6 Jamaica 14 2 5 7 12 22 11
7 El Salvador 14 2 4 8 8 18 10
Impact…Romelu 8 Honduras 14 0 4 10 7 26 4
Lukaku scored five
times in just four 03.09.21 Canada 1-1 Honduras
WC qualifiers 06.09.21 United States 1-1 Canada
Final hurrah…Lionel 09.09.21 Canada 3-0 El Salvador
Messi scored seven 08.10.21 Mexico 1-1 Canada
goals in qualifying
BRAZIL 10.10.21
14.10.21
Jamaica
Canada
0-0
4-1
Canada
Panama
GROUP P W D L F A Pts 13.11.21 Canada 1-0 Costa Rica
AUSTRALIA 1 Brazil
2 Argentina
17
17
14
11
3 0
6 0
40
27
5
8
45
39
17.11.21
28.01.22
Canada
Honduras
2-1
0-2
Mexico
Canada
2ND RD: GROUP B P W D L F A Pts 3 Uruguay 18 8 4 6 22 22 28 30.01.22 Canada 2-0 United States
1 Australia 8 8 0 0 28 2 24 4 Ecuador 18 7 5 6 27 19 26 03.02.22 El Salvador 0-2 Canada
2 Kuwait 8 4 2 2 19 7 14 5 Peru 18 7 3 8 19 22 24 25.03.22 Costa Rica 1-0 Canada
3 Jordan 8 4 2 2 13 3 14 6 Colombia 18 5 8 5 20 19 23 27.03.22 Canada 4-0 Jamaica
4 Nepal 8 2 0 6 4 22 6 7 Chile 18 5 4 9 19 26 19 31.03.22 Panama 1-0 Canada
5 Chinese Taipei 8 0 0 8 4 34 0 8 Paraguay 18 3 7 8 12 26 16
9 Bolivia 18 4 3 11 23 42 15
10.09.19 Kuwait 0-3 Australia 10 Venezuela 18 3 1 14 14 34 10 Back at the
10.10.19 Australia 5-0 Nepal World Cup…
15.10.19 Chinese Taipei 1-7 Australia 10.10.20 Brazil 5-0 Bolivia Canada’s Tajon
14.11.19 Jordan 0-1 Australia 14.10.20 Peru 2-4 Brazil Buchanan
03.06.21 Australia 3-0 Kuwait 14.11.20 Brazil 1-0 Venezuela celebrates
07.06.21 Australia 5-1 Chinese Taipei 17.11.20 Uruguay 0-2 Brazil after scoring
11.06.21 Nepal 0-3 Australia 05.06.21 Brazil 2-0 Ecuador in qualifying
15.06.21 Australia 1-0 Jordan 09.06.21 Paraguay 0-2 Brazil
03.09.21 Chile 0-1 Brazil
3RD RD: GROUP B P W D L F A Pts 10.09.21 Brazil 2-0 Peru
1 Saudi Arabia 10 7 2 1 12 6 23 08.10.21 Venezuela 1-3 Brazil
2 Japan 10 7 1 2 12 4 22 10.10.21 Colombia 0-0 Brazil
3 Australia 10 4 3 3 15 9 15 15.10.21 Brazil 4-1 Uruguay
4 Oman 10 4 2 4 11 10 14 12.11.21 Brazil 1-0 Colombia
5 China 10 1 3 6 9 19 6 16.11.21 Argentina 0-0 Brazil
6 Vietnam 10 1 1 8 8 19 4 27.01.22 Ecuador 1-1 Brazil
02.02.22 Brazil 4-0 Paraguay
02.09.21 Australia 3-0 China 24.03.22 Brazil 4-0 Chile
07.09.21 Vietnam 0-1 Australia 30.03.22 Bolivia 0-4 Brazil

COSTA RICA 8 Paraguay
9 Bolivia
18 3
18 4
7 8 12 26 16
3 11 23 42 15 GERMANY
THIRD ROUND P W D L F A Pts 10 Venezuela 18 3 1 14 14 34 10 GROUP J P W D L F A Pts
1 Canada 14 8 4 2 23 7 28 1 Germany 10 9 0 1 36 4 27
09.10.20 Argentina 1-0 Ecuador 2 North Macedonia 10 5 3 2 23 11 18
2 Mexico 14 8 4 2 17 8 28
13.10.20 Ecuador 4-2 Uruguay 3 Romania 10 5 2 3 13 8 17
3 United States 14 7 4 3 21 10 25
12.11.20 Bolivia 2-3 Ecuador 4 Armenia 10 3 3 4 9 20 12
4 Costa Rica 14 7 4 3 13 8 25
17.11.20 Ecuador 6-1 Colombia 5 Iceland 10 2 3 5 12 18 9
5 Panama 14 6 3 5 17 19 21
05.06.21 Brazil 2-0 Ecuador 6 Liechtenstein 10 0 1 9 2 34 1
6 Jamaica 14 2 5 7 12 22 11
08.06.21 Ecuador 1-2 Peru
7 El Salvador 14 2 4 8 8 18 10
02.09.21 Ecuador 2-0 Paraguay 25.03.21 Germany 3-0 Iceland
8 Honduras 14 0 4 10 7 26 4
05.09.21 Ecuador 0-0 Chile 28.03.21 Romania 0-1 Germany
03.09.21 Panama 0-0 Costa Rica 09.09.21 Uruguay 1-0 Ecuador 31.03.21 Germany 1-2 North Macedonia
06.09.21 Costa Rica 0-1 Mexico 08.10.21 Ecuador 3-0 Bolivia 02.09.21 Liechtenstein 0-2 Germany
09.09.21 Costa Rica 1-1 Jamaica 10.10.21 Venezuela 2-1 Ecuador 05.09.21 Germany 6-0 Armenia
08.10.21 Honduras 0-0 Costa Rica 14.10.21 Colombia 0-0 Ecuador 08.09.21 Iceland 0-4 Germany
10.10.21 Costa Rica 2-1 El Salvador 11.11.21 Ecuador 1-0 Venezuela 08.10.21 Germany 2-1 Romania
14.10.21 United States 2-1 Costa Rica 17.11.21 Chile 0-2 Ecuador 11.10.21 North Macedonia 0-4 Germany
13.11.21 Canada 1-0 Costa Rica 27.01.22 Ecuador 1-1 Brazil 11.11.21 Germany 9-0 Liechtenstein
17.11.21 Costa Rica 2-1 Honduras 02.02.22 Peru 1-1 Ecuador 14.11.21 Armenia 1-4 Germany
28.01.22 Costa Rica 1-0 Panama 24.03.22 Paraguay 3-1 Ecuador
30.01.22 Mexico 0-0 Costa Rica 30.03.22 Ecuador 1-1 Argentina
03.02.22 Jamaica 0-1 Costa Rica GHANA
25.03.22
27.03.22
Costa Rica 1-0 Canada
El Salvador 1-2 Costa Rica ENGLAND GROUP G
1 Ghana
P W D
6 4 1
L
1
F
7
A Pts
3 13
31.03.22 Costa Rica 2-0 United States GROUP I P W D L F A Pts
2 South Africa 6 4 1 1 6 2 13
INTER-CONFEDERATIONAL PLAY-OFF 1 England 10 8 2 0 39 3 26
3 Ethiopia 6 1 2 3 4 7 5
15.06.22 Costa Rica 1-0 New Zealand 2 Poland 10 6 2 2 30 11 20
4 Zimbabwe 6 0 2 4 2 7 2
3 Albania 10 6 0 4 12 12 18
CROATIA 4 Hungary
5 Andorra
10
10
5
2
2 3
0 8
19
8
13
24
17
6
03.09.21
06.09.21
Ghana
South Africa
1-0
1-0
Ethiopia
Ghana
GROUP H P W D L F A Pts 6 San Marino 10 0 0 10 1 46 0
09.10.21 Ghana 3-1 Zimbabwe
1 Croatia 10 7 2 1 21 4 23 12.10.21 Zimbabwe 0-1 Ghana
2 Russia 10 7 1 2 19 6 22 25.03.21 England 5-0 San Marino
11.11.21 Ethiopia 1-1 Ghana
3 Slovakia 10 3 5 2 17 10 14 28.03.21 Albania 0-2 England
14.11.21 Ghana 1-0 South Africa
4 Slovenia 10 4 2 4 13 12 14 31.03.21 England 2-1 Poland
02.09.21 Hungary 0-4 England PLAY-OFF
5 Cyprus 10 1 2 7 4 21 5 25.03.22 Ghana 0-0 Nigeria
6 Malta 10 1 2 7 9 30 5 05.09.21 England 4-0 Andorra
29.03.22 Nigeria 1-1a Ghana
08.09.21 Poland 1-1 England
24.03.21 Slovenia 1-0 Croatia 09.10.21 Andorra 0-5 England
27.03.21 Croatia 1-0 Cyprus 12.10.21 England 1-1 Hungary
30.03.21 Croatia 3-0 Malta 12.11.21 England 5-0 Albania
01.09.21 Russia 0-0 Croatia 15.11.21 San Marino 0-10 England
04.09.21 Slovakia 0-1 Croatia
07.09.21 Croatia 3-0 Slovenia
08.10.21
11.10.21
Cyprus
Croatia
0-3
2-2
Croatia
Slovakia
FRANCE
GROUP D P W D L F A Pts
11.11.21 Malta 1-7 Croatia 1 France 8 5 3 0 18 3 18
14.11.21 Croatia 1-0 Russia 2 Ukraine 8 2 6 0 11 8 12
3 Finland 8 3 2 3 10 10 11
DENMARK 4 Bosnia-Herzegovina
5 Kazakhstan
8 1 4
8 0 3
3 9 12 7
5 5 20 3
Returning…
Ghana missed
GROUP F P W D L F A Pts the 2018
1 Denmark 10 9 0 1 30 3 27 World Cup
24.03.21 France 1-1 Ukraine
2 Scotland 10 7 2 1 17 7 23 28.03.21 Kazakhstan 0-2 France
3 Israel 10 5 1 4 23 21 16 31.03.21 Bosnia-Herzegovina 0-1 France
4 Austria
5 Faroe Islands
10
10
5
1
1
1
4
8
19
7
17
23
16
4
01.09.21
04.09.21
France
Ukraine
1-1
1-1
Bosnia-Herzegovina
France
IRAN
6 Moldova 10 0 1 9 5 30 1 07.09.21 France 2-0 Finland 2ND RD: GROUP C P W D L F A Pts
13.11.21 France 8-0 Kazakhstan 1 Iran 8 6 0 2 34 4 18
25.03.21 Israel 0-2 Denmark 16.11.21 Finland 0-2 France 2 Iraq 8 5 2 1 14 4 17
28.03.21 Denmark 8-0 Moldova 3 Bahrain 8 4 3 1 15 4 15
31.03.21 Austria 0-4 Denmark 4 Hong Kong 8 1 2 5 4 13 5
01.09.21 Denmark 2-0 Scotland 5 Cambodia 8 0 1 7 2 44 1
Maturing…
04.09.21 Faroe Islands 0-1 Denmark
Kylian Mbappe
07.09.21 Denmark 5-0 Israel 10.09.19 Hong Kong 0-2 Iran
was named best
09.10.21 Moldova 0-4 Denmark young player
10.10.19 Iran 14-0 Cambodia
12.10.21 Denmark 1-0 Austria at the 2018 15.10.19 Bahrain 1-0 Iran
12.11.21 Denmark 3-1 Faroe Islands World Cup 14.11.19 Iraq 2-1 Iran
15.11.21 Scotland 2-0 Denmark 03.06.21 Iran 3-1 Hong Kong
07.06.21 Iran 3-0 Bahrain
Iran
ECUADOR 11.06.21
15.06.21
Cambodia
Iran
0-10
1-0 Iraq
GROUP P W D L F A Pts
1 Brazil 17 14 3 0 40 5 45 3RD RD: GROUP A P W D L F A Pts
2 Argentina 17 11 6 0 27 8 39 1 Iran 10 8 1 1 15 4 25
3 Uruguay 18 8 4 6 22 22 28 2 South Korea 10 7 2 1 13 3 23
4 Ecuador 18 7 5 6 27 19 26 3 UAE 10 3 3 4 7 7 12
5 Peru 18 7 3 8 19 22 24 4 Iraq 10 1 6 3 6 12 9
6 Colombia 18 5 8 5 20 19 23 5 Syria 10 1 3 6 9 16 6
7 Chile 18 5 4 9 19 26 19 6 Lebanon 10 1 3 6 5 13 6

WORLD CUP 2022 >>> HOW THEY QUALIFIED
02.09.21 Iran 1-0 Syria 14.10.21 El Salvador 0-2 Mexico 24.03.21 Portugal 1-0 Azerbaijan
07.09.21 Iraq 0-3 Iran 13.11.21 United States 2-0 Mexico 27.03.21 Serbia 2-2 Portugal
07.10.21 UAE 0-1 Iran 17.11.21 Canada 2-1 Mexico 30.03.21 Luxembourg 1-3 Portugal
12.10.21 Iran 1-1 South Korea 28.01.22 Jamaica 1-2 Mexico 01.09.21 Portugal 2-1 Republic of Ireland
11.11.21 Lebanon 1-2 Iran 30.01.22 Mexico 0-0 Costa Rica 07.09.21 Azerbaijan 0-3 Portugal
16.11.21 Syria 0-3 Iran 03.02.22 Mexico 1-0 Panama 12.10.21 Portugal 5-0 Luxembourg
27.01.22 Iran 1-0 Iraq 25.03.22 Mexico 0-0 United States 11.11.21 Republic of Ireland 0-0 Portugal
01.02.22 Iran 1-0 UAE 28.03.22 Honduras 0-1 Mexico 14.11.21 Portugal 1-2 Serbia
24.03.22 South Korea 2-0 Iran 31.03.22 Mexico 2-0 El Salvador PLAY-OFF
29.03.22 Iran 2-0 Lebanon 24.03.22 Portugal 3-1 Turkey
MOROCCO 29.03.22 Portugal 2-0 North Macedonia
JAPAN GROUP I P W D L F A Pts

2ND RD: GROUP F P W D L F A Pts 1 Morocco
2 Guinea-Bissau
6 6 0
6 1 3
0 20 1
2 5 11
18
6
QATAR
1 Japan 8 8 0 0 46 2 24 Qualified as hosts
2 Tajikistan 8 4 1 3 14 12 13 3 Guinea 6 0 4 2 5 11 4
3 Kyrgyzstan 8 3 1 4 19 12 10 4 Sudan 6 0 3 3 5 12 3
4 Mongolia
5 Myanmar
8 2 0
8 2 0
6 3 27 6
6 6 35 6 02.09.21 Morocco 2-0 Sudan SAUDI ARABIA
06.10.21 Morocco 5-0 Guinea-Bissau 2ND RD: GROUP D P W D L F A Pts
09.10.21 Guinea-Bissau 0-3 Morocco 1 Saudi Arabia 8 6 2 0 22 4 20
10.09.19 Myanmar 0-2 Japan
12.10.21 Guinea 1-4 Morocco 2 Uzbekistan 8 5 0 3 18 9 15
10.10.19 Japan 6-0 Mongolia
12.11.21 Sudan 0-3 Morocco 3 Palestine 8 3 1 4 10 10 10
15.10.19 Tajikistan 0-3 Japan
16.11.21 Morocco 3-0 Guinea 4 Singapore 8 2 1 5 7 22 7
14.11.19 Kyrgyzstan 0-2 Japan
PLAY-OFF 5 Yemen 8 1 2 5 6 18 5
30.03.21 Mongolia 0-14 Japan
25.03.22 Congo DR 1-1 Morocco
28.05.21 Japan 10-0 Myanmar
29.03.22 Morocco 4-1 Congo DR 10.09.19 Yemen 2-2 Saudi Arabia
07.06.21 Japan 4-1 Tajikistan
10.10.19 Saudi Arabia 3-0 Singapore
15.06.21 Japan 5-1 Kyrgyzstan
3RD RD: GROUP B P W D L F A Pts

NETHERLANDS 15.10.19
14.11.19
Palestine
Uzbekistan
0-0
2-3
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia
GROUP G P W D L F A Pts 30.03.21 Saudi Arabia 5-0 Palestine
1 Saudi Arabia 10 7 2 1 12 6 23
1 Netherlands 10 7 2 1 33 8 23 05.06.21 Saudi Arabia 3-0 Yemen
2 Japan 10 7 1 2 12 4 22
2 Turkey 10 6 3 1 27 16 21 11.06.21 Singapore 0-3 Saudi Arabia
3 Australia 10 4 3 3 15 9 15
3 Norway 10 5 3 2 15 8 18 15.06.21 Saudi Arabia 3-0 Uzbekistan
4 Oman 10 4 2 4 11 10 14
4 Montenegro 10 3 3 4 14 15 12
5 China 10 1 3 6 9 19 6
5 Latvia 10 2 3 5 11 14 9 3RD RD: GROUP B P W D L F A Pts
6 Vietnam 10 1 1 8 8 19 4
6 Gibraltar 10 0 0 10 4 43 0 1 Saudi Arabia 10 7 2 1 12 6 23
2 Japan 10 7 1 2 12 4 22
02.09.21 Japan 0-1 Oman 24.03.21 Turkey 4-2 Netherlands 3 Australia 10 4 3 3 15 9 15
07.09.21 China 0-1 Japan 27.03.21 Netherlands 2-0 Latvia 4 Oman 10 4 2 4 11 10 14
07.10.21 Saudi Arabia 1-0 Japan 30.03.21 Gibraltar 0-7 Netherlands 5 China 10 1 3 6 9 19 6
12.10.21 Japan 2-1 Australia 01.09.21 Norway 1-1 Netherlands 6 Vietnam 10 1 1 8 8 19 4
11.11.21 Vietnam 0-1 Japan 04.09.21 Netherlands 4-0 Montenegro
16.11.21 Oman 0-1 Japan 07.09.21 Netherlands 6-1 Turkey 02.09.21 Saudi Arabia 3-1 Vietnam
27.01.22 Japan 2-0 China 08.10.21 Latvia 0-1 Netherlands 07.09.21 Oman 0-1 Saudi Arabia
01.02.22 Japan 2-0 Saudi Arabia 11.10.21 Netherlands 6-0 Gibraltar 07.10.21 Saudi Arabia 1-0 Japan
24.03.22 Australia 0-2 Japan 13.11.21 Montenegro 2-2 Netherlands 12.10.21 Saudi Arabia 3-2 China
29.03.22 Japan 1-1 Vietnam 16.11.21 Netherlands 2-0 Norway 11.11.21 Australia 0-0 Saudi Arabia
16.11.21 Vietnam 0-1 Saudi Arabia
Decisive…Japan’s
Kaoru Mitoma
POLAND 27.01.22
01.02.22
Saudi Arabia
Japan
1-0
2-0
Oman
Saudi Arabia
celebrates after GROUP I P W D L F A Pts 24.03.22 China 1-1 Saudi Arabia
scoring against 1 England 10 8 2 0 39 3 26 29.03.22 Saudi Arabia 1-0 Australia
Australia 2 Poland 10 6 2 2 30 11 20
3 Albania 10 6 0 4 12 12 18
4 Hungary
5 Andorra
10
10
5
2
2 3
0 8
19
8
13
24
17
6
SENEGAL
GROUP H P W D L F A Pts
6 San Marino 10 0 0 10 1 46 0
1 Senegal 6 5 1 0 15 4 16
25.03.21 Hungary 3-3 Poland 2 Togo 6 2 2 2 5 6 8
28.03.21 Poland 3-0 Andorra 3 Namibia 6 1 2 3 5 10 5
31.03.21 England 2-1 Poland 4 Congo 6 0 3 3 5 10 3
02.09.21 Poland 4-1 Albania
05.09.21 San Marino 1-7 Poland 01.09.21 Senegal 2-0 Togo
07.09.21 Congo 1-3 Senegal
MEXICO 08.09.21
09.10.21
Poland
Poland
1-1
5-0
England
San Marino 09.10.21
12.10.21
Senegal
Namibia
4-1
1-3
Namibia
Senegal
THIRD ROUND P W D L F A Pts 12.10.21 Albania 0-1 Poland
12.11.21 Andorra 1-4 Poland 11.11.21 Togo 1-1 Senegal
1 Canada 14 8 4 2 23 7 28
15.11.21 Poland 1-2 Hungary 14.11.21 Senegal 2-0 Congo
2 Mexico 14 8 4 2 17 8 28
3 United States 14 7 4 3 21 10 25 PLAY-OFF PLAY-OFF
24.03.22 Russia Bye Poland 25.03.22 Egypt 1-0 Senegal
4 Costa Rica 14 7 4 3 13 8 25
29.03.22 Poland 2-0 Sweden 29.03.22 Senegal p1-0 Egypt
5 Panama 14 6 3 5 17 19 21
6 Jamaica 14 2 5 7 12 22 11
7 El Salvador
8 Honduras
14
14
2
0
4 8
4 10
8
7
18
26
10
4 PORTUGAL SERBIA
GROUP A P W D L F A Pts GROUP A P W D L F A Pts
03.09.21 Mexico 2-1 Jamaica 1 Serbia 8 6 2 0 18 9 20 1 Serbia 8 6 2 0 18 9 20
06.09.21 Costa Rica 0-1 Mexico 2 Portugal 8 5 2 1 17 6 17 2 Portugal 8 5 2 1 17 6 17
09.09.21 Panama 1-1 Mexico 3 Republic of Ireland 8 2 3 3 11 8 9 3 Republic of Ireland 8 2 3 3 11 8 9
08.10.21 Mexico 1-1 Canada 4 Luxembourg 8 3 0 5 8 18 9 4 Luxembourg 8 3 0 5 8 18 9
11.10.21 Mexico 3-0 Honduras 5 Azerbaijan 8 0 1 7 5 18 1 5 Azerbaijan 8 0 1 7 5 18 1

24.03.21 Serbia 3-2 Republic of Ireland
27.03.21
30.03.21
Serbia
Azerbaijan
2-2
1-2
Portugal
Serbia
SPAIN
GROUP B P W D L F A Pts
04.09.21 Serbia 4-1 Luxembourg 1 Spain 8 6 1 1 15 5 19
07.09.21 Republic of Ireland 1-1 Serbia 2 Sweden 8 5 0 3 12 6 15
09.10.21 Luxembourg 0-1 Serbia 3 Greece 8 2 4 2 8 8 10
12.10.21 Serbia 3-1 Azerbaijan 4 Georgia 8 2 1 5 6 12 7
14.11.21 Portugal 1-2 Serbia 5 Kosovo 8 1 2 5 5 15 5
25.03.21 Spain 1-1 Greece

Dramatic…Serbia 28.03.21 Georgia 1-2 Spain Rivalry…
defeated Portugal Mexico v
31.03.21 Spain 3-1 Kosovo
to seal top spot United States
02.09.21 Sweden 2-1 Spain
05.09.21 Spain 4-0 Georgia
08.09.21 Kosovo 0-2 Spain
11.11.21
14.11.21
Greece
Spain
0-1
1-0
Spain
Sweden
URUGUAY
GROUP P W D L F A Pts
1 Brazil 17 14 3 0 40 5 45
SWITZERLAND 2 Argentina
3 Uruguay
17
18
11
8
6 0
4 6
27
22
8
22
39
28
GROUP C P W D L F A Pts 4 Ecuador 18 7 5 6 27 19 26
1 Switzerland 8 5 3 0 15 2 18 5 Peru 18 7 3 8 19 22 24
2 Italy 8 4 4 0 13 2 16 6 Colombia 18 5 8 5 20 19 23
3 Northern Ireland 8 2 3 3 6 7 9 7 Chile 18 5 4 9 19 26 19
4 Bulgaria 8 2 2 4 6 14 8 8 Paraguay 18 3 7 8 12 26 16
5 Lithuania 8 1 0 7 4 19 3 9 Bolivia 18 4 3 11 23 42 15
SOUTH KOREA 25.03.21 Bulgaria 1-3 Switzerland
10 Venezuela 18 3 1 14 14 34 10
2ND RD: GROUP H P W D L F A Pts 28.03.21 Switzerland 1-0 Lithuania 08.10.20 Uruguay 2-1 Chile
1 South Korea 6 5 1 0 22 1 16 05.09.21 Switzerland 0-0 Italy 13.10.20 Ecuador 4-2 Uruguay
2 Lebanon 6 3 1 2 11 8 10 08.09.21 Northern Ireland 0-0 Switzerland 13.11.20 Colombia 0-3 Uruguay
3 Turkmenistan 6 3 0 3 8 11 9 09.10.21 Switzerland 2-0 Northern Ireland 17.11.20 Uruguay 0-2 Brazil
4 Sri Lanka 6 0 0 6 2 23 0 12.10.21 Lithuania 0-4 Switzerland 03.06.21 Uruguay 0-0 Paraguay
5 North Korea 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 12.11.21 Italy 1-1 Switzerland 08.06.21 Venezuela 0-0 Uruguay
15.11.21 Switzerland 4-0 Bulgaria 03.09.21 Peru 1-1 Uruguay
10.09.19 Turkmenistan 0-2 South Korea 05.09.21 Uruguay 4-2 Bolivia
10.10.19 South Korea 8-0 Sri Lanka
14.11.19
05.06.21
Lebanon
South Korea
0-0
5-0
South Korea
Turkmenistan
TUNISIA 09.09.21
08.10.21
Uruguay
Uruguay
1-0
0-0
Ecuador
Colombia
GROUP B P W D L F A Pts 11.10.21 Argentina 3-0 Uruguay
09.06.21 Sri Lanka 0-5 South Korea 15.10.21 Brazil 4-1 Uruguay
1 Tunisia 6 4 1 1 11 2 13
13.06.21 South Korea 2-1 Lebanon 12.11.21 Uruguay 0-1 Argentina
2 Equatorial Guinea 6 3 2 1 6 5 11
3 Zambia 6 2 1 3 8 9 7 16.11.21 Bolivia 3-0 Uruguay
3RD RD: GROUP A P W D L F A Pts 27.01.22 Paraguay 0-1 Uruguay
4 Mauritania 6 0 2 4 2 11 2
1 Iran 10 8 1 1 15 4 25 01.02.22 Uruguay 4-1 Venezuela
2 South Korea 10 7 2 1 13 3 23 24.03.22 Uruguay 1-0 Peru
03.09.21 Tunisia 3-0 Equatorial Guinea
3 UAE 10 3 3 4 7 7 12 30.03.22 Chile 0-2 Uruguay
07.09.21 Zambia 0-2 Tunisia
4 Iraq 10 1 6 3 6 12 9
07.10.21 Tunisia 3-0 Mauritania
5 Syria 10 1 3 6 9 16 6
10.10.21 Mauritania 0-0 Tunisia
6 Lebanon 10 1 3 6 5 13 6
13.11.21 Equatorial Guinea 1-0 Tunisia WALES
16.11.21 Tunisia 3-1 Zambia GROUP E P W D L F A Pts
02.09.21 South Korea 0-0 Iraq
PLAY-OFF 1 Belgium 8 6 2 0 25 6 20
07.09.21 South Korea 1-0 Lebanon
25.03.22 Mali 0-1 Tunisia 2 Wales 8 4 3 1 14 9 15
07.10.21 South Korea 2-1 Syria
29.03.22 Tunisia 0-0 Mali 3 Czech Republic 8 4 2 2 14 9 14
12.10.21 Iran 1-1 South Korea
11.11.21 South Korea 1-0 UAE 4 Estonia 8 1 1 6 9 21 4
16.11.21
27.01.22
Iraq
Lebanon
0-3
0-1
South Korea
South Korea
UNITED STATES 5 Belarus 8 1 0 7 7 24 3
01.02.22 Syria 0-2 South Korea THIRD ROUND P W D L F A Pts 24.03.21 Belgium 3-1 Wales
24.03.22 South Korea 2-0 Iran 1 Canada 14 8 4 2 23 7 28 30.03.21 Wales 1-0 Czech Republic
29.03.22 UAE 1-0 South Korea 2 Mexico 14 8 4 2 17 8 28 05.09.21 Belarus 2-3 Wales
3 United States 14 7 4 3 21 10 25 08.09.21 Wales 0-0 Estonia
4 Costa Rica 14 7 4 3 13 8 25 08.10.21 Czech Republic 2-2 Wales
5 Panama 14 6 3 5 17 19 21 11.10.21 Estonia 0-1 Wales
6 Jamaica 14 2 5 7 12 22 11 13.11.21 Wales 5-1 Belarus
7 El Salvador 14 2 4 8 8 18 10 16.11.21 Wales 1-1 Belgium
8 Honduras 14 0 4 10 7 26 4 PLAY-OFF
24.03.22 Wales 2-1 Austria
03.09.21 El Salvador 0-0 United States 05.06.22 Wales 1-0 Ukraine
06.09.21 United States 1-1 Canada
09.09.21 Honduras 1-4 United States
08.10.21 United States 2-0 Jamaica Historic…Wales reached
10.10.21 Panama 1-0 United States their first World Cup
14.10.21 United States 2-1 Costa Rica since1958
13.11.21 United States 2-0 Mexico
16.11.21 Jamaica 1-1 United States
28.01.22 United States 1-0 El Salvador
Talisman… 30.01.22 Canada 2-0 United States
Son Heung- 03.02.22 United States 3-0 Honduras
min scored 25.03.22 Mexico 0-0 United States
seven goals
28.03.22 United States 5-1 Panama
in qualifying
31.03.22 Costa Rica 2-0 United States

WORLD CUP 2022
The Stadiums
A total of 64 matches will take place in eight venues in five different municipalities
2 Al Bayt Stadium (Al Khor)…Capacity: 60,000 3 Stadium 974 (Doha)…Capacity: 40,000
4 Al Thumama Stadium (Doha)…Capacity: 40,000 1 Lusail Iconic Stadium (Lusail)…Capacity: 80,000
...AND WHERE THEY ARE
Qa t a r 1
7 6
3
5 4
144 WORLD
WO SOCCER c0376237-aee6-40be-b0db-564dff3ef604
5 Khalifa International Stadium (Al Rayyan)…Capacity: 45,416 6 Education City Stadium (Al Rayyan)…Capacity: 45,350
World Cup 2022 Vol. 63 No. 3

GROUP EDITOR
Stephen Fishlock
ASSISTANT EDITORS
Jamie Evans & Jared Tinslay
DESIGN
Sean Phillips, atg-media.com
PICTURES
Pictures copyright: Getty Images
SPECIAL THANKS THIS ISSUE TO:

7 Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium (Al Rayyan)…Capacity: 44,740 8 Al Janoub Stadium (Al Wakrah)…Capacity: 40,000 John Duerden & Dariusz Kurowski (press
conference quotes), Rhodri Williams (Felix
Sanchez quotes), Samindra Kunti, Tim Vickery,
Mark Gleeson & Martin del Palacio Langer
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WORLDSOCCER 145
WORLD CUP 2022
World Cup 2022

Schedule
GROUP A GROUP E
Qatar • Ecuador • Senegal • Netherlands Spain • Germany • Japan • Costa Rica
November 20 Qatar v Ecuador (4pm, Al Bayt) November 23 Germany v Japan (1pm, Khalifa)
November 21 Senegal v Netherlands (4pm, Al Thumama) November 23 Spain v Costa Rica (4pm, Al Thumama)
November 25 Qatar v Senegal (1pm, Al Thumama) November 27 Japan v Costa Rica (10am, Ahmad Bin Ali)
November 25 Netherlands v Ecuador (4pm, Khalifa) November 27 Spain v Germany (7pm, Al Bayt)
November 29 Ecuador v Senegal (3pm, Khalifa) December 1 Japan v Spain (7pm, Khalifa)
November 29 Netherlands v Qatar (3pm, Al Bayt) December 1 Costa Rica v Germany (7pm, Al Bayt)
GROUP B GROUP F
England • Iran • United States • Wales Belgium • Canada • Morocco • Croatia
November 21 England v Iran (1pm, Khalifa) November 23 Morocco v Croatia (10am, Al Bayt)
November 21 United States v Wales (7pm, Ahmad Bin Ali) November 23 Belgium v Canada (7pm, Ahmad Bin Ali)
November 25 Wales v Iran (10am, Ahmad Bin Ali) November 27 Belgium v Morocco (1pm, Al Thumama)
November 25 England v United States (7pm, Al Bayt) November 27 Croatia v Canada (4pm, Khalifa)
November 29 Wales v England (7pm, Ahmad Bin Ali) December 1 Croatia v Belgium (3pm, Ahmad Bin Ali)
November 29 Iran v United States (7pm, Al Thumama) December 1 Canada v Morocco (3pm, Al Thumama)
GROUP C GROUP G
Argentina • Saudi Arabia • Mexico • Poland Brazil • Serbia • Switzerland • Cameroon
November 22 Argentina v Saudi Arabia (10am, Lusail) November 24 Switzerland v Cameroon (10am, Al Janoub)
November 22 Mexico v Poland (4pm, Stadium 974) November 24 Brazil v Serbia (7pm, Lusail)
November 26 Poland v Saudi Arabia (1pm, Education City) November 28 Cameroon v Serbia (10am, Al Janoub)
November 26 Argentina v Mexico (7pm, Lusail) November 28 Brazil v Switzerland (4pm, Stadium 974)
November 30 Poland v Argentina (7pm, Stadium 974) December 2 Serbia v Switzerland (7pm, Stadium 974)
November 30 Saudi Arabia v Mexico (7pm, Lusail) December 2 Cameroon v Brazil (7pm, Lusail)
GROUP D GROUP H
France • Denmark • Tunisia • Australia Portugal • Ghana • Uruguay • South Korea
November 22 Denmark v Tunisia (1pm, Education City) November 24 Uruguay v South Korea (1pm, Education City)
November 22 France v Australia (7pm, Al Janoub) November 24 Portugal v Ghana (4pm, Stadium 974)
November 26 Tunisia v Australia (10am, Al Janoub) November 28 South Korea v Ghana (1pm, Education City)
November 26 France v Denmark (4pm, Stadium 974) November 28 Portugal v Uruguay (7pm, Lusail)
November 30 Australia v Denmark (3pm, Al Janoub) December 2 Ghana v Uruguay (3pm, Al Janoub)
November 30 Tunisia v France (3pm, Education City) December 2 South Korea v Portugal (3pm, Education City)
ROUND OF 16 December 10 Winner 7 v Winner 8 (3pm, Al Thumama) 3

December 10 Winner 4 v Winner 3 (7pm, Al Bayt) 4
December 3 Winner A v Runner-Up B (3pm, Khalifa) 1
December 3 Winner C v Runner-Up D (7pm, Ahmad Bin Ali) 2 SEMI-FINALS
December 4 Winner D v Runner-Up C (3pm, Al Thumama) 3
December 4 Winner B v Runner-Up A (7pm, Al Bayt) 4 December 13 Winner QF 2 v Winner QF 1 (7pm, Lusail) 1
December 5 Winner E v Runner-Up F (3pm, Al Janoub) 5 December 14 Winner QF 4 v Winner QF 3 (7pm, Al Bayt) 2
December 5 Winner G v Runner-Up H (7pm, Stadium 974) 6
December 6 Winner F v Runner-Up E (3pm, Education City) 7 THIRD PLACE PLAY-OFF
December 6 Winner H v Runner-Up G (7pm, Lusail) 8
December 17 Loser SF 1 v Loser SF 2 (3pm, Khalifa)
QUARTER-FINALS
FINAL
December 9 Winner 5 v Winner 6 (3pm, Education City) 1
December 9 Winner 1 v Winner 2 (7pm, Lusail) 2 December 18 Winner SF 1 v Winner SF 2 (3pm, Lusail)
● All kick-off times are GMT
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NOVEMBER 21 ★ 4PM ★ AL THUMAMA STADIUM
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NOVEMBER 25 ★ 4PM ★ KHALIFA INTERNATIONAL STADIUM
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NOVEMBER 29 ★ 3PM ★ AL BAYT STADIUM
NETHERLANDS QATAR
GROUP B
ENGLAND IRAN
NOVEMBER 21 ★ 7PM ★ AHMAD BIN ALI STADIUM
UNITED STATES WALES

NOVEMBER 25 ★ 10AM ★ AHMAD BIN ALI STADIUM
WALES IRAN
ENGLAND UNITED STATES

WALES ENGLAND
IRAN UNITED STATES
GROUP C LAST 16 GAME 49

NOVEMBER 22 ★ 10AM ★ LUSAIL ICONIC STADIUM DECEMBER 3 ★ 3PM ★ KHALIFA INTERNATIONAL STADIUM
ARGENTINA SAUDI ARABIA WINNERS GROUP A RUNNERS-UP GROUP B
NOVEMBER 22 ★ 4PM ★ STADIUM 974
MEXICO POLAND LAST 16 GAME 50

NOVEMBER 26 ★ 1PM ★ EDUCATION CITY STADIUM DECEMBER 3 ★ 7PM ★ AHMAD BIN ALI STADIUM
POLAND SAUDI ARABIA WINNERS GROUP C RUNNERS-UP GROUP D
NOVEMBER 26 ★ 7PM ★ LUSAIL ICONIC STADIUM
ARGENTINA MEXICO
LAST 16 GAME 51
DECEMBER 4 ★ 3PM ★ AL THUMAMA STADIUM
POLAND ARGENTINA
WINNERS GROUP D RUNNERS-UP GROUP C QUARTER-FINAL GAME 57
DECEMBER 9 ★ 7PM ★ LUSAIL ICONIC STADIUM
SAUDI ARABIA MEXICO
LAST 16 GAME 52 WINNERS GAME 49 WINNERS GAME 50
DECEMBER 4 ★ 7PM ★ AL BAYT STADIUM
GROUP D WINNERS GROUP B RUNNERS-UP GROUP A QUARTER-FINAL GAME 59

NOVEMBER 22 ★ 1PM ★ EDUCATION CITY STADIUM
DENMARK TUNISIA
WINNERS GAME 52 WINNERS GAME 51
NOVEMBER 22 ★ 7PM ★ AL JANOUB STADIUM
FRANCE AUSTRALIA
NOVEMBER 26 ★ 10AM ★ AL JANOUB STADIUM
SEMI-FINAL GAME 61
TUNISIA AUSTRALIA DECEMBER 13 ★ 7PM ★ LUSAIL ICONIC STADIUM
FRANCE DENMARK THIRD PLACE PLAY-OFF GAME 63
DECEMBER 17 ★ 3PM ★ KHALIFA INTERNATIONAL STADIUM
NOVEMBER 30 ★ 3PM ★ AL JANOUB STADIUM
LOSERS GAME 61 LOSERS GAME 62
AUSTRALIA DENMARK THE FINA
NOVEMBER 30 ★ 3PM ★ EDUCATION CITY STADIUM DECEMBER 18 ★ 3PM ★ L
TUNISIA FRANCE WINNERS GAME 61
QATAR 2022 ★ NOVEMBER 20-DECEMBER 18 ★ QATAR 2022 ★ NOVEMBER 20-DECEMBER 18 ★ QATAR
c0376237-aee6-40be-b0db-564dff3ef604
H
GROUP E
om THE BEST FOOTBALL MAGAZINE! NOVEMBER 23 ★ 1PM ★ KHALIFA INTERNATIONAL STADIUM
GERMANY JAPAN
CUP 2022
SPAIN COSTA RICA

NOVEMBER 27 ★ 10AM ★ AHMAD BIN ALI STADIUM
JAPAN COSTA RICA

SPAIN GERMANY
DECEMBER 1 ★ 7PM ★ KHALIFA INTERNATIONAL STADIUM
JAPAN SPAIN
COSTA RICA GERMANY
GROUP F
NOVEMBER 23 ★ 10AM ★ AL BAYT STADIUM
MOROCCO CROATIA
BELGIUM CANADA
BELGIUM MOROCCO
CROATIA CANADA
DECEMBER 1 ★ 3PM ★ AHMAD BIN ALI STADIUM
CROATIA BELGIUM
CANADA MOROCCO
LAST 16 GAME 53 GROUP G

DECEMBER 5 ★ 3PM ★ AL JANOUB STADIUM NOVEMBER 24 ★ 10AM ★ AL JANOUB STADIUM
WINNERS GROUP E RUNNERS-UP GROUP F SWITZERLAND CAMEROON

LAST 16 GAME 54 BRAZIL SERBIA

DECEMBER 5 ★ 7PM ★ STADIUM 974 NOVEMBER 28 ★ 10AM ★ AL JANOUB STADIUM
WINNERS GROUP G RUNNERS-UP GROUP H

CAMEROON SERBIA
BRAZIL SWITZERLAND
LAST 16 GAME 55
DECEMBER 2 ★ 7PM ★ STADIUM 974
DECEMBER 6 ★ 3PM ★ EDUCATION CITY STADIUM
SERBIA SWITZERLAND
QUARTER-FINAL GAME 58 WINNERS GROUP F RUNNERS-UP GROUP E
DECEMBER 9 ★ 3PM ★ EDUCATION CITY STADIUM
CAMEROON BRAZIL
WINNERS GAME 53 WINNERS GAME 54 LAST 16 GAME 56
QUARTER-FINAL GAME 60 WINNERS GROUP H RUNNERS-UP GROUP G

GROUP H
NOVEMBER 24 ★ 1PM ★ EDUCATION CITY STADIUM
URUGUAY SOUTH KOREA
PORTUGAL GHANA
SEMI-FINAL GAME 62 NOVEMBER 28 ★ 1PM ★ EDUCATION CITY STADIUM
DECEMBER 14 ★ 7PM ★ AL BAYT STADIUM SOUTH KOREA GHANA

WORLD CUP WINNERS 2022 PORTUGAL URUGUAY
DECEMBER 2 ★ 3PM ★ AL JANOUB STADIUM
AL GAME 64 GHANA URUGUAY

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WINNERS GAME 62 SOUTH KOREA PORTUGAL
R 2022 ★ NOVEMBER 20-DECEMBER 18 ★ QATAR 2022 ★ NOVEMBER 20-DECEMBER 18 ★ QATAR 2022
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WHERE LEGENDS ARE MADE

4 Keir Radnedge Introduction

Follow World Soccer online

c0376237-aee6-40be-b0db-564dff3ef604 WORLD SOCCER 3

“Human rights should play the biggest role in the awarding of a

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greater hosting experience than many

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Football can’t keep ignoring human rights

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13 ISSUES Great reasons to subscribe

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Messi’s last dance

T fifth and final World Cup.

more than any other player in history,

10 WORLD SOCCER c0376237-aee6-40be-b0db-564dff3ef604

c0376237-aee6-40be-b0db-564dff3ef604 WORLD SOCCER 11

S knit group of players that offers

systems depending on the opposition.

THE VIEW FROM ARGENTINA COACH

12 WORLD SOCCER c0376237-aee6-40be-b0db-564dff3ef604

GOALKEEPERS Esteban ANDRADA (Monterrey, Mex), Juan MUSSO (Atalanta, Ita)

c0376237-aee6-40be-b0db-564dff3ef604 WORLD SOCCER 13

Coach Graham Arnold made the

14 WORLD SOCCER c0376237-aee6-40be-b0db-564dff3ef604

c0376237-aee6-40be-b0db-564dff3ef604 WORLD SOCCER 15

I fluctuated between a 4-4-2 and a

midfielder of the quality of Mile Jedinak.

THE VIEW FROM AUSTRALIA COACH

16 WORLD SOCCER c0376237-aee6-40be-b0db-564dff3ef604

GOALKEEPERS Paul IZZO (Melbourne Victory), Lawrence THOMAS (Western

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Red Devils’ last chance

C mastermind one last

a run to the last eight, fades from view?

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c0376237-aee6-40be-b0db-564dff3ef604 WORLD SOCCER 19

R formation from a 4-3-3 to a

THE VIEW FROM BELGIUM COACH

20 WORLD SOCCER c0376237-aee6-40be-b0db-564dff3ef604

GOALKEEPERS Matz SELS (Strasbourg, Fra)

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Eyeing number six

I Brazil lost a Copa America on

campaigns since the 2002 triumph,

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B theme, with the basic idea

of Cafu and Roberto Carlos running up

THE VIEW FROM BRAZIL COACH

24 WORLD SOCCER c0376237-aee6-40be-b0db-564dff3ef604

ALISSON EDERSON WEVERTON ALEX SANDRO ALEX TELLES BREMER

CASEMIRO Philippe COUTINHO FABINHO FRED LUCAS PAQUETA NEYMAR

ANTONY Roberto FIRMINO GABRIEL JESUS PEDRO RAPHINHA RICHARLISON

GOALKEEPERS EVERSON (Atletico Mineiro), SANTOS (Flamengo)

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Turning to the diaspora

T carry the distinction of

26 WORLD SOCCER c0376237-aee6-40be-b0db-564dff3ef604