2022 World Cup Group F Preview: Belgium, Croatia Clear Favorites

Had the World Cup semifinals played out a little differently four years ago, we’d be looking at a rematch of the 2018 final. As it stands, Group F features the runner-up (Croatia) and the third-place finisher (Belgium) from Russia—and both teams return with their cores largely intact. Belgium will once again rely on 31-year-old playmaker Kevin De Bruyne and 29-year-old striker Romelu Lukaku, who have led their country to the top of the FIFA world rankings (Belgium is currently No. 2)—but never to a trophy.

Croatia is also led by a familiar face: 37-year-old Luka Modrić, who won the Golden Ball as the best player in the 2018 tournament, during which his side won three dramatic knockout-stage games that either went to extra time or penalties.

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At the other end of the spectrum is Canada, an exciting young team making just its second World Cup appearance. (The first came in 1986.) The pace and final-third proficiency of Lille forward Jonathan David and Bayern Munich fullback Alphonso Davies will present problems for any opponent.

Morocco’s presence has been widely overlooked, but following a coaching change in August, the side should be boosted by the return of its star winger, Chelsea’s Hakim Ziyech.

Davies and Cyle Larin are two of Canada’s top stars.
Armin Rauthner/GEPA Pictures/Imago Images

CHAOS COMPONENT

The Canada hype train is welcoming all passengers. No team in Concacaf qualifying scored more and conceded fewer goals than Canada, which topped the table. A win or a draw against Belgium or Croatia could throw this group into disarray, and the Canadians are fully capable of stealing a point—or even three—off both teams.

HISTORY LESSON

Canada’s Nov. 27 game against Croatia should have added meaning for goalkeeper Milan Borjan. He was born in Knin, Yugoslavia, now part of Croatia. His Serbian family fled during the Croatian War of Independence in 1995, eventually settling in Ontario.

Belgium’s Lukaku, center, is battling injury but could yet play a significant role in another deep tournament run.
Danny Gys/Reporters/Imago Images

GAME OF THE GROUP

Croatia vs. Belgium, Dec. 1

After each side came so close to World Cup glory in 2018, Belgium’s high-octane attack will meet Croatia’s gritty midfield engine in the final group-stage match.