FIFA World Cup 2022: Scouting USMNT's opponents England, Iran and Wales ahead of journey to Qatar

The United States is playing in their first World Cup since 2014. They are in Group B with England, Iran and comparative Wales. Their success will depend on their opponents and how they can combat each other in the group stage.

Wales qualified for their first World Cup since 1958 through the playoff route in UEFA. Gareth Bale is the best player in the team. The team has a lot of experience, but it's not very deep. Daniel James is a player to watch. They play the USA in their opening game. They are expected to advance behind England. It's the most important game in this group. USMNT's prediction is 1-1.   Welsh vs. USA is their most crucial game of the tournament.

James Benge is scouting FIFA World Cup 2022 opponents England, Iran and Wales.

England won their qualifying group with an 8-2-0 record. They are ranked No. 5 in FIFA. Gareth Southgate's team has depth of talent but also some weaknesses. The atmosphere around England might be their biggest weakness. Harry Kane is the best player in the team. Jude Bellingham is a player to watch. He offers dynamism and versatility in midfield. England expect to make a deep run to the final and have a chance to win the tournament. USMNT vs. the Three Lions is predicted to be a 3-1 victory.

Iran qualified for the World Cup after winning AFC Third Round qualifying. Carlos Quieroz's team has a lot of forwards, including Sardar Azmoun, Mehdi Taremi and Alireza Beiranvand. The team lacks midfield quality and relies on its strikers to create chances. Iran has never advanced from the group stage in five previous World Cups. The general expectation is that Iran will be eliminated in the first group.