The FIFA World Cup is almost here. With kick-off fast approaching, Playmaker is taking a closer look at all 48 participating nations across 12 articles - one for each group in the tournament. From likely starting XIs to the key players to watch, we've got everything you need to know ahead of the biggest competition in world football.
Our World Cup group-by-group preview continues with Group B. It may not be the most eye-catching section at first glance, but there is plenty to keep an eye on. The group brings together one of Europe's most reliable tournament teams of recent years, a nation determined to finally make a breakthrough on the world stage, a side preparing to play a World Cup on home soil for the first time, and a team that booked its place in the finals by ending Italy's qualification hopes.
Switzerland, Qatar, Canada and Bosnia and Herzegovina all arrive with ambitions of making their mark, although the Swiss begin as clear favourites. La Nati are making their 13th World Cup appearance, while Canada have featured only twice before, and both Qatar and Bosnia are appearing for just the second time.
Even so, qualification is far from a foregone conclusion. Canada continue to build on the momentum generated in recent years, while Bosnia will hope to enjoy one last memorable campaign with Edin Dzeko, one of the greatest players in the nation's history. Qatar, now led by Julen Lopetegui, will be eager to show how much they have progressed since hosting the tournament in 2022.
One thing is certain: Group B has plenty of stories still waiting to be written.