World Cup 2022: Forget England, here are FIVE actual dark horses for Qatar glory

The world’s best players are set to be airdropped into the Middle East just eight days before the World Cup gets underway. What could possibly go wrong? England arrive with the unusual feeling of quiet optimism, having transformed into genuine contenders under Gareth Southgate. Not that they will actually win it.

It’s still too hot in Qatar in November, their Premier League contingent (everyone except Jude Bellingham) will be instructed to take it easy by their clubs, and the fans have decided the best way to inspire their troops is to boo one of their most reliable performers. Ad/> So with the World Cup splitting the club season, leaving the top players more concerned than usual about picking up a knock, which lesser-known nations could spring a surprise this autumn? /> World Cup'FIFA must lead' — Norwegian FA president urges stronger stance on human rights9 HOURS AGO CANADA FIFA ranking: 38 How they qualified: CONCACAF third round winners Odds: 200-1 ‘FFS. Not even one sensible suggestion.’ It's probably what you’re all thinking.

Canada, a nation who last qualified for the World Cup in 1986. Canada, a nation who have never scored at a World Cup, let alone get even a point. Canada, a nation who progressed to Qatar from one of the easiest qualifying routes possible.

What's there to get excited about? Quite a bit, it turns out. Not only do they have a clear and convincing gameplan – sit back, lull you in, then BOOM, rip you apart on the counter-attack – but this is a group brimming with spirit. International teams are often dripping with egos (who doesn’t love a juicy story about infighting in the France camp?!) but this Canada side are devoid of prima donnas.