The draw for the 2022 World Cup qualifying campaign for European nations is complete, and the campaign begins in March of next year. The 2022 World Cup takes place in Qatar and will take place in November rather than during the summer. In addition, the 2022 World Cup is the last tournament to feature 32 nations as the 2026 tournament will feature 48 nations with the United States, Canada, and Mexico as the hosts.
France is currently the defending World Champions. However, unfortunately, FIFA no longer honors the rule that sees the defending champions automatically qualify for the next tournament. The rule changed in 2001, meaning that France was the last team to automatically qualify for the World Cup as defending champions in 2002.
Result of 2022 World Cup qualifying draw 🏆
— UEFA EURO 2020 (@EURO2020) December 7, 2020
🤔 Which European nation has the toughest group? pic.twitter.com/MnuSZ4WCT7
Honestly, it’s better for France to have to play and win to earn a spot in the tournament. With France being loaded with so much talent, France needs to go through qualifiers in order to test out the talent and see where improvements are needed. The results determine whether or not Les Bleus are ready and fit to defend their title. Also, a free pass to the tournament didn’t do any good for Les Bleus back in 2002.
France is drawn alongside Finland, Ukraine, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Kazakhstan. Despite France being heavily favored to top the group, it won’t be easy. Honestly, nothing is ever easy for Les Bleus. For example, underestimating opponents in the past has been very costly. They know they can’t make the same mistakes again. As always Les Bleus must be ready for anything and be on top of their game.
However, it’s unclear who’s a potential threat to Les Bleus. Realistically, it may be Finland and/or Ukraine. Regardless, France should be able to top their group and book their ticket to Qatar.
For Les Bleus, it’s about defending and retaining the title in a respectable fashion. In addition, it’s about keeping the future bright.
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