When it comes to Group B, there are a number of teams that are feeling the pressure to live up to the expectations of their respective generations.
Where to Bet on 2022 World Cup
Anything short of a World Cup victory is likely to be considered a failure for favorite England. For the United States and Wales, both countries are hoping their top players will be able to lead them out of the group.
Iran is hoping to play spoiler and if everything bounces their way, become a dark horse to reach the knockout rounds.
England World Cup Preview 2022
Odds to Win Group B: -335
Harry Kane is a potent scorer who gives the Three Lions the ability to put pressure on any opponent’s backline. Since losing to Italy in the 2020 Euro final, England hasn’t suffered another loss. Raheem Sterling of Manchester City also gives the Three Lions another top-tier player.
England is coming off a fourth-place finish in the last World Cup and will want to push for more. The Three Lions last reached the World Cup final when they won the event in 1950. England should win this group relatively easily.
Wales World Cup Preview 2022
Odds to Win Group B: +500
This is a golden generation for Wales, which is making its first World Cup appearance since 1958. The Welsh men are set up with a group that sees an opportunity to advance. While Wales is typically highly ranked in FIFA world rankings, they have had a difficult time advancing through qualifying.
Wales have a punch in the lineup with Gareth Bale and Daniel James, who lead a Welsh side eager to start the tournament. Wales’ first game is likely the most important in the group, with a win over the Americans making qualifying for the knockout round likely.
United States World Cup Preview 2022
Odds to Win Group B: +700
The Americans are likely still another World Cup cycle away from truly contending for a deep run. What this U.S. team could show, however, is how much having players playing in top European leagues will help on the group stage. American star striker Christian Pulisic has found life in the English Premier League challenging.
Pulisic has found it difficult to be on the field at Chelsea and will want to showcase his skillset on the World Stage. Brenden Aaronson (Leeds), Tyler Adams (Leeds), West McKinnie (Juventus), Ricardo Pepi (FC Augsburg) and Gio Reyna (Borussia Dortmund) are all candidates to go to Qatar. The Americans will gain valuable experience no matter how this tournament goes for them.
Iran World Cup Preview 2022
Odds to Win Group B: +1800
Iran won the Asian qualifiers and will be looking to march quickly toward respectability. Iran was 8-1-1 in its last ten games, but hasn’t played a difficult schedule and will need some luck to advance.
Mehdi Taremi (Porto) and Sardar Azmoun (Bayer Leverkusen) are two of Iran’s top players that are playing with top clubs in Europe.
Best Bet: England to Win Group B (-335)
Read our 2022 World Cup Group A preview next.