32 nations will be battling to reach the 2018 FIFA World Cup final this summer in Russia, and the tournament features several talented sides. Group C boasts four strong teams, and the opening stages will indeed be interesting.
1998 winners France enter as the clear favourite in the group, and with good reason. Les Bleus arrive in Russia with one of the most impressive squads in the competition, with immense quality at nearly every position.
Manager Didier Deschamps has the luxury of depth this summer, and he truly has a remarkable collection of footballers. The attack will feature Antoine Griezmann, Ousmane Dembele and Kylian Mbappe. The midfield will be controlled by the likes of Paul Pogba and N’Golo Kante.
At the back, defenders such as Samuel Umtiti and Raphael Varane will help to clear out dangerous chances in front of goalkeeper Hugo Lloris. Tipped by many to capture another World Cup title, France will be a formidable opponent for any side in the competition.
Group C will also have a second European team, as Denmark aim to make a statement on the sport’s grandest stage. A key to their success will be found in the midfield, as Tottenham’s Christian Eriksen will have a tremendous impact on results.
With attacking talent like Nicolai Jorgensen and Pione Sisto, Denmark could end up surprising many fans with a strong showing this summer.
Returning to the World Cup for the first time since 1982, Peru are set to make 2018 a memorable occasion. Captain Paolo Guerrero leads a squad determined and anxious to make an impression, and La Blanquirroja will be one of the most motivated squads in the entire tournament.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bW7UVN6YBKo
Australia are the group’s fourth nation and will aim for their second-ever Round of 16 appearance (2006). The Socceroos’ all-time leading goalscorer Tim Cahill will be in the team, but will likely not have the same level of influence that he has had in previous World Cups (this will be his fourth trip to the tournament).
How Group C will conclude
France will be heavy favourites to be Group C winners, and it is difficult to envision a scenario where this does not take place. This is a group that they should dominate and should be able to navigate their way to the Round of 16 quite comfortably.
The runners-up spot will be a fascinating battle, with midfielder Christian Cueva of Peru possibly set for a break-out show. The 26-year-old enjoyed excellent performances at the Copa América in 2015 and 2016, as he will look to lead his nation to victory.
Denmark’s meeting with Peru on June 16 in the opening game for the two sides will be crucial, and those points may ultimately decide the fate of the final group standings. While Australia will be expected to put in positive outings, it would be a surprise to see them get the better of their opponents here.
The 2018 FIFA World Cup is bound to produce some shocking results and upsets throughout the fixtures. However, do not expect those types of endings in Group C.
Group C prediction:
France
Denmark
Peru
Australia
