World Cup Preview Group D

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The 2018 FIFA World Cup is just around the corner. After a great display at the 2014 rendition, the USMNT  will be looking to prove they are among the best in the world. With some fresh faces in this year’s tournament, as well as a few heavy favorites, here is the complete breakdown of the field of 32.

Group D - Argentina, Iceland, Croatia, Nigeria

Argentina

Odds to win: 8-1

Finish in 2014 WC: Lost to Germany in Final

Most Important Player: Lionel Messi, as with Ronaldo, does not yet have a World Cup trophy on his resume. This is probably his last go around to make a huge impact* and Messi is the special type of player that can turn any game around in 1 second. Best player in his team, best player in the group, and there's a real possibility he could be the best player in the tournament. It doesn't hurt that Barcelona are having a phenomenal year, giving Messi a hot streak to continue.

Why they have a chance to win: Argentina are the 5th highest odds to win the World Cup, and boast an all star attacking lineup. With names like Messi, Di Maria, and Dybala, they are not short on creativity and throw in Icardi/Higuain...Argentina have all the ingredients for a goalfest. They have players sprinkled around all of the best leagues in the world, and have a great mix of veterans and youth. They were SO CLOSE in 2014, coming up 1 extra time goal short. I think they come back the confidence and experience needed to excel, and really make a push! 

Why they don’t have a chance to advance past the group stage: This group seems trickier than it seems for all teams involved. Yes, Argentina could be seen as a favorite, but Croatia and either Iceland/Nigeria could definitely sneak into the knockouts. One bad game, or a Messi injury, could spell danger. Make no mistake, if Argentina does not make the semifinals, it will be seen as a disappointment.

*Who really knows. Messi could play at this level for another 4 years MAYBE and make another run.

Iceland

Odds to win: 200-1

Finish in 2014 WC: First ever appearance in 2018

Most Important Player: The Icelandic clap. Inspired a movement, destroyed one nation (Looking at you England). It could actually be argued that the clap is more important than any one player they have on the team. A relatively new side, the clear star name is Gylfi Sigurðsson. The Everton midfielder has had a slow start this season after his big money move in the summer of 2017, but nonetheless is an important cog in his country's system. Also he can shoot the ball my GOD. Freekicks with Gylfi are actually going to be a viable gameplan for Iceland winning games.

Why they have a chance to win: Short answer, they don't. I mean, they are 200-1 odds to win for a reason. Iceland are a team that could have just too much pressure on them, resulting in them crashing out early on. But anything is possible after their showing at Euro 2016. If they can surprise a big name team (i.e. Argentina), that may be all the momentum Iceland needs to get going. 

Why they don’t have a chance to advance past the group stage: The Minnesota Vikings scored a last second touchdown against the New Orleans Saints in this year's NFC playoffs. They immediately responded with the now famous Icelandic Clap, Fast-forward to the next round, and the Vikings were run off the field 38-7. Iceland has to pray that result doesn't follow them this summer...because oh boy. With the group they were placed in, they will need everything to fall their way.

Croatia

Odds to win: 30-1

Finish in 2014 WC: 3rd in Group A

Most Important Player: Luka Modric had been playing like a mad man at Real Madrid. Back to back UEFA Champion's League titles, and a host of World Team of the Year nominations, the former Tottenham Hotspur midfielder will likely be the difference maker for this side on both sides of the ball. 

Why they have a chance to win: While the Croatian league is nothing to write home about,  this roster is full of internationally located talent. Players like Modric (Real Madrid), Ivan Perisic (Inter Milan), and Ivan Rakitic (Barcelona) lead this squad and give them a shot at advancing. Honest to god the only thing holding this entire country back is if Dejan Lovren is a starting centerback. That's how I'll decide if they advance. And with 55 caps for his country...oh man, the situation is NOT looking ideal.

Why they don’t have a chance to advance past the group stage: Am I the only one that thinks 30-1 is a little high for Croatia?? They did advance to the Round of 16 at Euro 2016...but have followed that up with losses to Iceland (look out) and Turkey, plus a tie against Finland (???). I have so many questions about this team. Also their FIFA ranking is 15! Let's see how that holds up in this tough group.'

Nigeria

Odds to win: 200-1

Finish in 2014 WC: Lost to France in the Round of 16

Most Important Player: I think Kelechi Iheanacho has a lot to prove this tournament. The former Manchester City forward has since moved to Leicester City where he has 0 goals in 9 appearances this season. The 21 year old has to prove his worth, and his 25 million pound fee. Iheanacho has showed his prowess, albeit in a smaller sample size, with his goals for Manchester City.

Why they have a chance to win: The pace! The skill! Nigeria also have an attacking lineup that will have Nicolas Otamendi shaking in his boots. Kelechi Iheanacho (21 y/o), Alex Iwobi (21 y/o), and Ahmed Musa (25y/o) are quick, technical, and will cause some havoc this summer. As a neutral fan, they are one of more the exciting teams to watch. 

Why they don’t have a chance to advance past the group stage: Does this team have a great attacking force? Yes. Do they have any sort of defense whatsoever? Absolutely not. Their backline will have to defend against the likes of Modric, Gylfi, and oh yeah MESSI! While they could score some goals, I think they will get outscored more often than not.

Group D:

4TR Sports Predicts

1. Argentina

2. Croatia

3. Nigeria

4. Iceland

As always, let me know how wrong I definitely am, or what your group prediction is.

Come check out the rest of our previews at https://04therecord.blogspot.com/ !