Should the World Really Be as Pessimistic about England’s Chances at the World Cup as They Are?

England are perennial underachievers. Despite the footballing talent the country produces, the national team has failed to win a single major international trophy in over 50 years. They’ve come tantalisingly close, but just lacked that champion-like desire and cutting edge to get them over the line.

It seems like the same story at every international tournament. The media stirs itself up into a frenzy, before we know what’s happened England are the tournament favourites, with the parades being planned before the players have even kicked a ball. Perhaps this enormous pressure is what causes them to capitulate, it can’t be easy having the weight of a silverware-starved nation on your shoulders.

The hope seems somewhat more muted this year, due in part to the stiff competition awaiting England in the later stages. However, Gareth Southgate has still put together a strong side. Do England have more of a chance than we’re giving them credit for?

The England Squad

The England squad is talented, there’s no denying that. Speculation was rife before Southgate announced his selections, with calls for inclusions that ranged from the obvious to the outlandish.

When the squad finally was announced, it was perhaps less revolutionary than many had hoped. All the standard names were there, although there were a few surprise additions and omissions.

Leicester City’s James Maddison was strongly tipped for a call-up, and Southgate rewarded the forward’s excellent start to the season by including him in the squad. Unfortunately, an injury has all but ruled him out, so we might not get the chance to see him at this tournament. It’s not like England are short of options at the front anyway. Harry Kane is still the main man, while Marcus Rashford has been welcomed back into the squad and Newcastle’s Callum Wilson has been brought in to support.

In midfield, rising star Jude Bellingham is expected to make an impression. He will be joined by the likes of Chelsea’s Mason Mount and experienced Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson.

However, it is the England defence that is causing the most worry among fans. Injury has meant the squad has lost the ever-reliable Reece James and Ben Chilwell, with Southgate forced to bring in Arsenal defender Ben White to fill the void and rethink Bukayo Saka’s position in the team.

Are England The Favourites?

England are not the outright favorites to win the tournament, but online sports betting platforms like 10bet in South Africa have them ranked within the top five at least, if not within the top three.

Currently, Brazil are favorites to lift the trophy, with Argentina coming in at a close second. This is no surprise, both squads are absolutely packed with talent and many expect superstars like Messi, Neymar, and Vinicius Junior to steal the show at this year’s World Cup.

Who Is In England’s Group?

England are in group B, which they share with Iran, the USA, and Wales. They have already dispatched Iran with a 6 – 2 thrashing, so it looks like England will have no problem qualifying. However, the USA and Wales will be a stern test, so they’ll have to be focused as they navigate their remaining group games.

Who Could They Face Next?

The USA and Wales game ended in a draw, which leaves England with a good chance of finishing at the top of their group table.

If they were to win their group, they would head into the round of 16 and be up against the runners up of group A, which could be either Ecuador, the Netherlands, Senegal, or Qatar. If England came second in their group, they would face the winner of group A.

Securing a win in the last 16 would see England progress to the quarter finals. Here, they could face Argentina, Mexico, Poland, or current world champions France. If they came second in their group, England could face Argentina or Denmark in the quarters.

On to the semi finals, where a group-winning England side could come up against Belgium or Portugal, while coming second place could see them face Spain, Germany, or Brazil.

If they made it all the way to the final, Spain, Germany, or Brazil could potentially stand between the Lions and eternal glory.

Conclusion

England have got off to a flying start with their victory over Iran. However, there are far tougher tests to come. They will have to overcome some formidable opponents if they want to go all the way at this year’s tournament.