World Cup

World Cup 2022: Group C predictions - Argentina, Mexico, Poland, Saudi Arabia

By Barney Corkhill, Editor | 18 November 2022

Ahead of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Sports Mole predicts how Group C will pan out, with Lionel Messi's Argentina and Robert Lewandowski's Poland also facing Mexico and Saudi Arabia.

All eyes will be on Lionel Messi in Group C of the Qatar World Cup as the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner looks to finally drag his nation to glory on his last dance on the grandest stage.

World Cup Group C

The Argentina maestro is not the only superstar in the group, though, with Robert Lewandowski featuring for Poland in a competitive section which also includes perennial last-16 qualifiers Mexico and underdogs Saudi Arabia.

Here, the Sports Mole team set out how they expect Group C to pan out this winter.

1. ARGENTINA

Argentina players pose for a team group photo before the match on June 1, 2022 © Reuters

Argentina should make it through to the knockout rounds and they will fancy their chances of going deep into this year's tournament, with the aim to at least better their last-16 exit from four years ago.

Should they top Group C, a last-16 tie with Denmark could precede a quarter-final clash against the Netherlands, both of which are encounters Scaloni's men will be expected to win.

However, this route may force Argentina to renew hostilities with Brazil in the semi-finals and we are predicting the five-time world champions to prevail, gaining revenge after their Copa America heartbreak last year.

2. POLAND

Poland players pose for a team group photo before the match in September 2022 © Reuters

Though lacking in certain areas, Poland can rely on several strengths - including Piotr Zielinski's mastery of their creative department and Robert Lewandowski clinically putting the ball in the net.

Serie A strikers Krzysztof Piatek and Arkadiusz Milik are an able supporting cast for the irreplaceable 'Lewy', on whom almost all hopes rest, while an experienced squad can stay united to overcome their shortcomings.

Pitched into a negotiable group, the Eagles can therefore edge out Mexico to finish second behind favourites Argentina and progress to the knockout stages.

3. MEXICO

Mexico players pose for a team group photo before the match on November 9, 2022 © Reuters

The Mexicans have not lost an opening match at the World Cup since 1994, with their most famous first victory perhaps coming four years ago when they upset the defending world champions Germany thanks to a goal from Napoli striker Hirving Lozano.

Those strong starts have enabled them to make the last 16 time and again, but this time around, things do not look nearly as promising.

There is plenty of experience within this group, however they struggled in CONCACAF and they will face much stiffer competition at the World Cup.

Combine that with the fact that morale does not appear to be high within the group given their inconsistencies from one match to another, and this could be the World Cup where El Tri take a step backwards.

4. SAUDI ARABIA

Saudi Arabia players pose for a team group photo before the match in March 2022 © Reuters

Saudi Arabia deserve respect for their performances during qualification, but it is very difficult to imagine them making a big impression at the finals of the tournament.

Argentina are expected to top Group C, with Poland and Mexico potentially battling for second, which could leave Saudi Arabia bottom of the group.