The FIFA 2022 World Cup, the biggest carnival in football, is all set to unfold in Qatar almost a year from now. Qualifiers for the event have entered the last leg and several teams stare at the gloomy prospect of disqualification. The upcoming World Cup will be having 13 teams from Europe, five from Africa, five from Asia (four + host nation Qatar), four from South America and three from North America. Then the triumphant ones in the intercontinental playoffs will take the rest of the two berths. At present, there are several high-profile and promising teams at the risk of missing the spot in football’s most prestigious event to be held in the Gulf region next year. Let us have a look at the teams on the slippery slope right now.
Sweden
The Scandinavian country’s chances have been dented badly by the setbacks against Georgia, last week, and Sweden on November 14. With all the talents at their disposal, it would be a colossal disappointment if they do not qualify for the coveted event. Now, the only option left before them is to put up sizzling displays in the playoffs to enter the tournament in Qatar.
Uruguay
In the North American slots, only two are vacant with Argentina and Brazil almost sealing the other two for the World Cup qualification. The remaining empty slots are also being eyed by Ecuador and Chile. Uruguay is placed sixth now but they cannot afford any more disappointing outcomes and must find a way to put an end to the series of defeats. They must qualify for the sake of Luis Suarez as this world cup, in all probability, looks like his last in a major tournament for his team.
Italy
The Euro 2020 winners also need to battle it out in the playoffs to secure qualification for the event in Qatar. In a shocking display, The Azzurri were held to a goalless draw by Northern Ireland in the qualifiers that put paid to their chances to qualify automatically. Roberto Mancini and his teammates have paid a heavy price for the humiliation they suffered at the hands of Belgium and now the “Blue” fans are praying that there won’t be a repeat of 2018.
Japan
They were the “dark horse” of the 2018 edition as they stunned everyone by progressing to the knockouts by fighting it out with the best in a tough group. This time, though, the situation is slightly tricky for them as they are placed third in group B of the Asian World Cup Qualifiers. But they have three more games with Saudi Arabia, Australia and Vietnam to seal the final playoff spot.
