World Cup Group H Previews, Tickets & Predictions
Portugal
Portugal made it through the playoffs to reach the tournament, but they didn’t always look convincing while doing so. They benefitted from a relatively easy final game against North Macedonia, the side that famously took Italy out of the equation. During the group stage of qualifying, this side had to rely on the magic of Ronaldo to get them out of some scrapes. An example of this was their home game against Republic of Ireland, where it was two late goals that gave them the victory.
This is there eight time to qualify for the tournament, but they have never lifted the trophy. Their 37-year-old legend, Cristiano Ronaldo, will be hoping to add this trophy to his impressive list of honours.
Key Player: Bruno Fernandes has been inconsistent while playing for Manchester United, but he almost never lets his country down.
Prediction: 2nd
Ghana
Ghana was another side that struggled in qualifying, eventually pushing their way into the finals with an away goals victory over Nigeria in their own respective playoffs. This is the first time The Black Stars have qualified for the tournament since 2014. However, it is the 2010 World Cup that will stick out in the minds of their supporters. There was where they lost to Uruguay on penalties in the quarterfinals after Luis Suarez handballed on the line in normal time. There is sure to be some tension between opposing sides when the teams matchup this time around.
They only lost two of their 10 games in 2021, so expect Ghana to have a defensive set-up that is difficult to penetrate.
Key Player: Thomas Partey is a battling midfielder who has been a standout for Arsenal all season.
Prediction: 3rd
Uruguay
Uruguay has a talented squad, but they have failed to hit the heights they are capable of in 2021. They were knocked out at the quarterfinal stage of Copa America and may have concerns that some of their better players are past their best. For instance, both Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani are 35 years old and aren’t as lightning fast as they once were.
However, their form this year will provide some optimism. They have won all four of their games so far, scoring eight goals and conceding just one.
Key Player: Luis Suarez will see this as his ‘last dance’ in a Uruguay shirt and will want to end his international career on a high note.
Prediction: 1st
South Korea
South Korea has played at every World Cup since 1982 and that is a streak that is set to continue, as Paul Bento brings his squad to play at Qatar2022. That being said, the last time they made it out of their group was at the 2010 tournament, so their fans will be looking for more when they’re at the finals. Their qualification saw them finish second in the group, losing only when they had already secured qualification. They have a squad full of attacking talent, but are a bit lightweight in defence.
Key Player: Tottenham Hotspur’s Son Hueng-min can turn a match on its head with his blistering pace, excellent vision and scoring ability.
Prediction: 4th
