Manchester City striker Erling Haaland has named Brazil, Argentina, France, and England as favorites to win the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Haaland, 22, will not be at the FIFA World Cup as Norway failed to qualify for the tournament in Qatar.
The City striker has been Europe’s top striker this season, scoring 23 goals and contributing three assists in 18 appearances across competitions.
His absence from the competition is disappointing, but he will be watching on as a neutral.
The Norweigan forward was asked which nations he feels will secure glory at the FIFA World Cup.
He said (via Football Daily):
“I think the favourites should be Brazil, Argentina, France and maybe England.”
Brazil are the record holders, having won the competition on five occasions.
However, Selecao’s last triumph came back in 2002 when icons Ronaldo Nazario, Ronaldinho, and Rivaldo dominated opponents.
This year, the likes of Paris Saint-Germain forward Neymar, Real Madrid duo Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo will be looking to claim the coveted trophy in Qatar.
Meanwhile, Argentina have won the tournament twice in 1978 and 1986.
La Albiceleste came close to winning the World Cup in 2004 when they made it to the final.
However, Germany secured an extra-time 1-0 victory over Argentina to prevent Lionel Messi from winning his first World Cup trophy.
The PSG attacker will make his last appearance in the tournament at this year’s edition.
France are the reigning champions, winning the competition in 2018 with a 4-2 win over Croatia in the final.
Didier Deschamps’ side have an exciting list of attackers looking to damage in Qatar, including Ballon d’Or winner Karim Benzema and PSG striker Kylian Mbappe.
They will be without World Cup-winning midfield duo Paul Pogba and N’Golo Kante, however, as they are both sidelined with injuries.
England’s last World Cup success came back in 1966 – the Three Lions have endured disappointment ever since.
Gareth Southgate led his side to the semi-finals of the 2018 tournament before being eliminated by Croatia in a 2-1 defeat.
Source: Sportskeeda
