Match previews for the second round of matches in Groups A and B at 2022 FIFA World Cup, including Netherlands and England in action.
In Group A, Qatar and Senegal meet in a crucial clash for their qualification hopes whilst Ecuador face Netherlands in a crunch clash which could decide who tops the group.
Across in Group B, Wales and Iran both chase a win to boost their qualification hopes, whilst England could guarantee a knockout spot with victory over USA.
Wales vs Iran (Group B)
Despite having scrapped their way to a 1-1 draw against USA in their opening game, Wales weren’t exactly at their best at dealing with the Yanks’ power and dynamic athleticism but this is a game where they will get more chances – which they really need to convert to get a win.
Iran meanwhile were totally outclassed by England but one positive has to be their defensive turnovers into quick-paced attacks, whilst Alireza Beiranvand will be a huge loss in goal due to concussion – given his ability and long-throwing ability.
Neither defence though looked particularly strong but I can’t help but feel that Wales should have enough to edge out Iran, especially as this is a game that should suit Wales’ attack more than against USA.
Prediction: Wales 1-0 Iran
Result: Wales 0-2 Iran
Qatar vs Senegal (Group A)
Having delivered a disastrous debut display against Ecuador where they struggled to muster up any basic quality – except for goalkeeper, Saad Al Sheeb, Qatar now know that this is a must-win or they definitely will be eliminated with defeat if Netherlands and Ecuador draw in the other Group A match.
Controlling their nerves though will be vital because they basically melted and let Ecuador run riot in the tournament opener, which must not be repeated here against a strong Senegal team who will be eager to respond after a late defensive collapse against Netherlands on Monday.
Senegal also were wasteful in their end-product with poor link-up play despite looking positive in their attacking build-up, so there is work to do if Senegal are to qualify for the knockout stages.
In fact, I wouldn’t be surprised if Senegal do correct their mistakes and deliver a strong performance because Qatar does look there for the taking, as Ecuador perfectly demonstrated in their opening game if can press quickly and control the game.
Prediction: Qatar 0-2 Senegal
Result: Qatar 1-3 Senegal
Netherlands vs Ecuador (Group A)
Having been frustrated throughout most of their eventual win over Senegal, Netherlands can’t ignore their largely toothless end product and lack of defensive urgency despite snatching a late win.
Ecuador meanwhile were just superb in their attacking intensity and end product which I hope to see again here, whilst their own control of the second-half was executed well even when their defensive focus dipped at times.
Louis van Gaa;l though will expect a better performance from his Dutch squad but if Ecuador can settle quickly and play like they did on Sunday, I reckon that they could well get something out of this game.
Prediction: Netherlands 1-1 Ecuador
Result: Netherlands 1-1 Ecuador
England vs USA (Group B)
Despite enjoying a rampant win over Iran with energetic attacking intensity and movement despite enduring a frustrating first-half due to various stoppages. England have an injury concern in Harry Kane so it will be interesting to see if he starts and how they adapt tactically if he doesn’t.
USA meanwhile brought attacking power and agility to their opener against Wales which certainly didn’t allow the Welsh to settle, but they will need to be wary of England who are a more solid team who can soak up pressure and play on counter if necessary with pace.
Harry Maguire though does seem like England’s weak spot which USA will surely look to target, so I do expect a tough physical contest between these two teams, although I do fancy England to secure qualifcation if they take their chances whilst USA can often be wasteful in their end product.
Prediction: England 2-1 USA
Result: England 0-0 USA
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