FIFA World Cup 2018 Preview

The Kop Table

The Kop Table returns for a World Cup Preview Podcast. In this special episode, Peter Phillips is joine by regular Jay Riley, and Dave Curan who has previously been involved with The Kop Table. Ian Gow also makes his debut on the podcast. The panel give their thoughts on the World Cup In group A, hosts Russia open the proceedings with a 5-0 win versus Saudi Arabia. Uruguay join them, and are hotly tipped by the panel to proceed, but could face competition from Egypt and Russia. With the Spanish manager getting sacked just days before their opening fixture of the World Cup, group B has been blown wide open. Will the Spanish teams quality be enough, or will Portugual, Morocco or IR Iran have enough quality to stop the former world champions progressing from the group stage? Group C was an easier choice for the panel, with France likely runaway winners, but who does the group think could progress in second? Could the Peruvian national pride take them through to the knockout stage? Could Argentina, with Messi and Co, finally break through and show their talent on the world stage? Group D seems like it should be straight forward for Sampaoli, but they face tricky opposition in Iceland, Croatia and Nigeria. With Dave Curan living in Brazil, we get excellent insight on Group E from him. Do we get the expected unanimous decision on Brazil moving forward from the group? Does the panel think Brazil could push on and win the tournament as well? Group F contains Germany, Mexico, Sweden and Korea Republic. Germany are clear favourites in the group, but Mexico and Sweden are no pushovers. Does Jay rate Germany to win the cup? Can you ever afford to write the Germans off though? Group G contains England, and with Peter and Jay being natives they offer interesting thoughts on the squad. Belgium are currently rated 3rd in the world, with an incredible squad - but can England upset them at all? Will Tunisia prove a wildcard in the group after their good defensive display against Spain. Group H could be the most competitive group of the tournament, with no clear favourite. Poland with Lewandowski up front can not be written off easily. Colombia, like Poland, also have good striking options. Senegals pace could help them get through the group. Japan are a solid side with good experience, so could their aging squad help them get through. Who are the panels predictions for Golden Boot and overall winners of the World Cup?