Casual observers will like the looks of Group C, mainly because there's a high chance we'll see goals.
Argentina, the reigning Copa America champion, headlines Group C and is the favorite to win the group. Meanwhile, the battle to advance will likely come down to Mexico and Poland. The former squad has advanced to the knockout round in seven consecutive World Cup events, while Poland hasn't emerged from the group since 1986.
Saudi Arabia rounds out the group and should provide some good punching fodder for the remaining three teams. With that said, let's dive into the group and share early analysis.
Group C Odds/World Rankings
*Odds via FanDuel
| ODDS TO WIN GROUP | ACTION NETWORK | FIFA | |
|---|---|---|
| Argentina | -195 | 10th | 4th |
| Saudi Arabia | +3800 | 68th | 49th |
| Mexico | +440 | 16th | 9th |
| Poland | +410 | 22nd | 26th |
The Favorite: Argentina
While the competition certainly isn't as tough as Europe, it has been a long time since Argentina dropped all three points. That will propel Lionel Messi and company into Qatar, where they face a (relatively) easy group. That said, this isn't a bettable number.
The Dark Horse: Mexico
Set aside the group-winner odds for a second and I'm surprised Mexico is an underdog to advance. Combine its aforementioned record in terms of getting out of the group with the fact Poland is reliant on one player and it could surprise Argentina under the right circumstances.
Potential Shock Elimination: Poland
Poland goes as Robert Lewandowski does, which is a strategy that rarely works in the World Cup. While the Poles have some nice pieces in support of the Bayern Munich striker, I have trust issues with its defense. While not "shocking" per se, I'm surprised how high books are on Poland.
2022 FIFA World Cup Odds
*Odds via BetMGM
| TEAM | ODDS |
|---|---|
| France | +550 |
| Brazil | +550 |
| England | +700 |
| Spain | +750 |
| Germany | +900 |
| Argentina | +1000 |
| Belgium | +1100 |
| Portugal | +1200 |
| Netherlands | +1600 |
| Denmark | +2800 |
| Uruguay | +4000 |
| Croatia | +5000 |
| Serbia | +6600 |
| Qatar | +6600 |
| USA | +8000 |
| Mexico | +8000 |
| Switzerland | +8000 |
| Poland | +8000 |
| Senegal | +8000 |
| Iran | +10000 |
| Ecuador | +12500 |
| Wales | +15000 |
| Ukraine | +15000 |
| Japan | +15000 |
| Peru | +15000 |
| Morocco | +15000 |
| Ghana | +15000 |
| Cameroon | +15000 |
| South Korea | +15000 |
| Saudi Arabia | +15000 |
| Canada | +15000 |
| Australia | +25000 |
| Scotland | +25000 |
| Costa Rica | +25000 |
| Tunisia | +25000 |
| United Arab Emirates | +25000 |
| New Zealand | +50000 |
