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The FIFA World Cup is almost here. From June 11 to July 19, a total of 48 nations will compete for the title of World Champions in a tournament that will be jointly hosted by the USA, Mexico, and Canada.

The draw has divided the participating teams into 12 groups. Group B features Canada, Switzerland, Qatar, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. This group presents a historic opportunity, as three of the four teams have yet to progress beyond the group stage in any previous World Cup.

Here’s a closer look at the four teams vying to make an impact in Group B:

Canada
The co-hosts will feel confident about their chances in this group. Their campaign begins in Toronto before continuing with two matches in Vancouver, giving them the advantage of home support throughout the group stage.

Head coach Jesse Marsch has called this the strongest Canadian squad ever assembled. There is growing belief that Canada can reach the knockout rounds for the first time. Alphonso Davies and Jonathan David headline the team, while 18 of the 26 players are currently playing for European clubs.

Player to watch: Alphonso Davies – still the face of Canadian football, he is expected to lead his nation’s charge this summer.
Predicted stage of elimination: Round of 32

Switzerland
Switzerland enter as the favourites in Group B and appear to have the most complete and balanced squad. Interestingly, the Swiss have previously faced each of their group opponents just once, losing all three matches – though those were friendly fixtures held more than two decades ago.

The Swiss boast a wealth of experience across the pitch, with players like Granit Xhaka, Ricardo Rodriguez, Manuel Akanji, Remo Freuler, and Breel Embolo each having earned over 80 international caps. They could be dark horses this year, with a realistic chance of reaching the quarter-finals for the first time in more than 70 years.

Player to watch: Johan Manzambi – the 20-year-old shone for Freiburg during their Europa League run and could use this tournament to make a global impression.
Predicted stage of elimination: Round of 16

Qatar
As hosts of the previous World Cup, Qatar will be aiming to improve on their last showing. Their 2022 campaign ended in disappointment, as they became the first team eliminated from the tournament after losing all three games and scoring just once.

However, that experience may prove valuable for their second appearance on the world stage. While expectations are low, Qatar’s players will look to use that prior exposure to put up a better fight this time around.

Player to watch: Akram Afif – at 29, he ranks among Qatar’s top three all-time players in both goals and appearances.
Predicted stage of elimination: Group stage

Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bosnia and Herzegovina secured their place at this World Cup by defeating Italy in the final play-off. This will be only their second appearance at the tournament, following their debut in 2014. Despite the long gap, their leader remains the same – Edin Dzeko. Now 40 years old, the veteran striker continues to captain the team. Defender Sead Kolasinac is the only other player remaining from that 2014 squad.

Though Bosnia may not have the most star-studded lineup, their fighting spirit and determination are well known. They embrace their underdog status and will aim to make history by reaching the knockout rounds for the first time.

Player to watch: Edin Dzeko – the ‘Bosnian Diamond’ will have one final opportunity to represent his nation at the pinnacle of world football.
Predicted stage of elimination: Round of 32