FIFA World Cup 2018: 3 teams that can spring a surprise
Football fans all over the world are patiently waiting for the biggest sport’s event. Every 4 years, the FIFA World Cup is held, causing a major frenzy and excitement among fans. This year, it is going to be held in Russia. Sadly, Italy and Netherlands didn’t make it to the upcoming event, but fans are hoping to see an outstanding and entertaining performance from the participants.
Here, we take a look at teams that have the potential to surprise the opponents and reach the latter stages of the tournament
3) COLOMBIA
Columbia along with Poland are the favourites to top group H. They finished third in the Copa America and reached the quarter-finals of the World Cup in Brazil.To be honest, they are not the same team as they were a few years back, but they’re certainly still good enough to make some noise in Russia.
James Rodriguez who won the Golden Boot scoring six goals in the last World Cup will be the key to Columbia's hopes. During the last World Cup, he was at the peak of his ability. At Real Madrid, he never really developed into the star everyone was hoping he would.
However, now that he’s at Bayern Munich one could argue he is their best player and the success of Colombia in this World Cup is completely on his shoulders. He will have help from Juan Cuadrado and Falcao. The team has a very balanced attack going forward although defence is a cause for concern. If they can keep clean sheets and continue to score goals they should have no issue getting through this group.
Manager: José Pékerman
Qualifying Place: 4th in CONMEBOL
Key Player: James Rodriguez, Bayern Munich
Last World Cup: 2014 Brazil, Quarterfinals