2018 FIFA World Cup Group B Preview

There is no shortage of championship pedigree in this group with Portugal and Spain headlining. In fact, Group B has a strong case as this tournament’s version of the “Group of Death.”

PORTUGAL

FPF, FIFA World Cup

Current FIFA World Ranking: 4
7th World Cup Finals
Best finish: 1966 semifinals, 3rd Place

The reigning European champions sailed through qualification and come in with some young players eager to prove themselves. Players like Rúben Dias, Bernardo Silva, and André Silva could usher in a new golden crop if given the opportunity to shine.

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Naturally, any discussion of this squad begins and ends with Cristiano Ronaldo. This is likely going to be the last chance for the mercurial superstar to make a lasting impact on this, the sport’s biggest stage of all.

The overall age of the preferred starting lineup, especially at the back, may slow this team’s pace down. However, that could work in their favor as conditioning becomes an issue. With the core of the Euro 2016 squad still in place, a semifinal berth is not out of the question.

SPAIN

Current FIFA World Ranking: 8
15th World Cup Finals
Best finish: 2010 champions

Spain’s remarkable run of success was never going to last forever. That said, this current squad has a real shot at reaching those same heights. Glitterati such as Andres Iniesta, Sergio Ramos, and Sergio Busquets may not be getting any younger, but they may yet have a final say.

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Midfielder Isco is on track for a breakout tournament, consequently making him one to keep a close eye on. While Iniesta may not have the legs for 90 minutes now, Isco has the ability to fill the playmaker’s role.

Question marks remain about the striking options for the Spaniards. If they solve this question, there is little reason to doubt that this team could hoist the trophy.

MOROCCO

Current FIFA World Ranking: 42
5th World Cup Finals
Best finish: 1986 Round of 16

Hakim Ziyech is the obvious star of the team, and another breakout candidate. His ability to pull the strings from midfield will be key to unlocking the formidable defenses in this group.

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However, speaking of defense, the fact that Morocco made it through qualifying without conceding a single goal is what truly stands out. Medhi Benatia leads a highly-disciplined unit, and against the caliber of opposition they will face in this group, that will be the true key to springing any upsets.

The Moroccans lack the firepower that Spain and Portugal possess, thus their chances appear slim. It is a daunting issue to face, but keeping in mind the cagey nature of group stage matches, they have the ability to steal a point or two. It is unlikely to be enough to advance, however.

IRAN

Current FIFA World Ranking: 36
5th World Cup Finals
Best finish: 4x Group Stage

In 2014, Iran thrived on playing with nearly everyone behind the ball to frustrate opponents. They still rely on a primarily defensive posture, but they have also improved on their counterattacks. Alireza Jahanbakhsh and Sardar Azmoun add creativity and pace that should see them playing a more exciting brand of soccer.

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Unfortunately, as talented as those two are in attack, they also render Iran predictable. If they are unable to maintain their defensive shape and feed the ball out for counters, that could spell trouble.

Nobody is in Russia just to make up numbers, and in contrast to 2014, Iran should entertain for at least part of the time on the pitch. However, in spite of their best efforts, an unfriendly group draw and lack of depth will see them to another Group Stage exit.

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2018 FIFA World Cup Group B Preview