The FIFA Confederations Cup, a quadrennial tournament which serves as a dress rehearsal for the World Cup, is upon us.
Here are key things you need to know ahead of the competition’s opener on Saturday.
When is the FIFA Confederations Cup?
The showpiece will run from June 17th to July 2nd, 2017.
Where will it be held?
Russia will host the tournament.
What about match venues?
16 games will be played across four venues:
Krestovsky Stadium, Saint Petersburg
Otkrytiye Arena, Moscow
Fisht Olympic Stadium, Sochi
Kazan Arena, Kazan
All four venues will also be among the 12 used for the 2018 World Cup.
Who are the participating countries?
Eight national football teams will slug it out. They include six regional champions, the host nation and current World Cup holders.
Africa (CAF) – Cameroon
Asia (AFC) – Australia
Europe (UEFA) – Portugal
Host – Russia
North America (CONCACAF) – Mexico
Oceania (OFC) – New Zealand
South America (CONMEBOL) – Chile
World Cup – Germany
Any debutant?
Yes. Aside from Germany, Cameroon, Mexico and Australia, the other teams have never made it to the tournament.
Who are the defending champions?
Brazil. However, the South American giants, who have won the competition a record four times won’t be at the showpiece. Instead, Chile will fly the continent’s flag in Russia after winning the last COPA America.
How were the teams grouped?
Host, Russia, as expected are drawn in Group A alongside Portugal, Mexico and New Zealand. World champions Germany, meanwhile, will face Chile, Cameroon and Australia in Group B.
Stars to watch
Loads of stars will be expected to ignite the tournament, amongst which are Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal), Alexis Sanchez (Chile) and Thomas Muller (Germany).
Who are the favourites?
Mexico is the only previous winners in the competition but everyone will be expecting Germany to better their third-place finish of 2005. Ronaldo’s Portugal alongside Sanchez’s Chile are two sides who could give Die Mannschaft a run for their money.
What about the underdogs?
New Zealand (95) heads to the competition as the lowest ranked team. It will take something close to a miracle for the All Whites to emerge as champions.
