PITA’s 2022 World Cup predictions

Aasif Rahman

Winner: Brazil – I just think it’s finally Brazil’s year, with their exciting attack and balanced midfield. The pace they have on the break could be crucial especially in the KO rounds to get them through. And, of course, they have Neymar. That guy.

Golden Boot: Darwin Nunez – This might be a surprise choice to a few and will link to the next choice on the list but Nunez has been in great form coming into the World Cup, which is only going to benefit him and his team. They’ll play to his strengths and even though he has Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani in front of him, I feel like this could be his breakout competition.

Dark Horse: Uruguay – Can you call two-time winners Uruguay a dark horse? Well, I don’t hear much talk of them and I have no idea why. Their attack is stacked, Federico Valverde is in the form of his life and Rodrigo Bentancur can’t stop scoring. They could make it deep into the competition and it wouldn’t surprise me if they make it all the way.

Shock Early Exit: Belgium – The golden generation of Belgium has ended and when I look at the team, I see an ageing team. Their defence still has the likes of Jan Vertonghen and Toby Alderweireld. Romelu Lukaku has struggled with injury this season, and this team isn’t as exciting as it was in 2018.

Best Performing Arsenal Player: William Saliba – He’s arguably been Arsenal’s best-performing player and it would be no surprise to me if he performs at that elite level for France, too. It’s already been rumoured he’s set to start for Les Bleus and his ability is set to be seen by the world after this tournament. If there’s one player to watch from this Arsenal team at this World Cup it’s definitely William Saliba.