Group A isn't so much about who will win the Group but more who will finish second. The Netherlands are clear favourites to emerge victorious and extend their unbeaten run of 11 wins and 4 draws. A win for Ecuador in the opening game of the tournament against the hosts Qatar would set them up for in-effect a one-game playoff against Senegal for second spot. Senegal are weakened with the injury to Mane but still look to have enough on paper to edge that so I really don't see too many surprises in here.
The host Nation usually fare quite well with only South Africa back in 2010 the only side to date failing to make it out the group. I have to admit I fear a similar fate lies in wait for Qatar though as I'm struggling to see where they pick up points.
They face Ecuador on Sunday evening and while this is the easiest game they will likely endure it is still a tough enough test. Ecuador have appeared at three editions of the competition in 2002, 2006 and 2014 but have only once progressed beyond the group stages. They are generally a low-scoring side but they don't concede many either.
- 3 of last 4 for Qatar been Under 2.5 goals
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