Who will be in the national championship. 2022 College Football Playoff National Championship: Expert Picks, Odds, and Dark Horse Contenders

Who are the top contenders for the 2022 College Football Playoff National Championship. Which teams have the best odds of winning it all. What dark horse candidates could make a surprising run to the title.

The Favorites: Alabama, Clemson, and Ohio State Lead the Pack

As we look ahead to the 2022 college football season, the usual suspects find themselves at the top of the national championship odds. According to Caesars Sportsbook, Nick Saban’s Alabama Crimson Tide are the frontrunners at +260, followed closely by the Clemson Tigers at +400 and the Ohio State Buckeyes at +600.

Why are these perennial powerhouses once again favored? Alabama’s consistent success under Saban speaks for itself, while Clemson and Ohio State have established themselves as playoff regulars with elite talent and coaching. However, the road to the championship is never easy, and each team faces its own set of challenges.

Alabama’s Reload and Challenges

The Crimson Tide, despite their favorable odds, face a significant rebuild after losing several key players to the NFL Draft. How will Alabama overcome the departure of quarterback Mac Jones and Heisman-winning receiver DeVonta Smith? The team will rely on new talent, including quarterback Bryce Young and receivers like John Metchie III, to step up and fill those big shoes.

However, football expert Emory Hunt cautions against assuming Alabama will cruise to another title. “There are just too many concerns for the Crimson Tide, combined with the amount of returning talent others in the SEC have, to feel confident that they’ll make it through the season unscathed and win the national championship,” Hunt told SportsLine.

Clemson and Ohio State: Reloading for Another Run

While Alabama retools, Clemson and Ohio State are poised for strong campaigns. The Tigers, led by coach Dabo Swinney, have become a model of consistency in college football. Can they maintain their high level of play without Trevor Lawrence under center? Meanwhile, Ohio State’s explosive offense and improving defense make them a formidable contender in the Big Ten and beyond.

The Next Tier: Georgia and Oklahoma Look to Break Through

Just behind the top three, we find Georgia and Oklahoma, both listed at +750 odds. These teams have been on the cusp of greatness in recent years but have fallen short of claiming the ultimate prize. Could 2022 be the year one of them breaks through?

Georgia’s Championship Aspirations

The Georgia Bulldogs have been knocking on the door of a national title for several years under Kirby Smart. With a talented roster and a chip on their shoulder, can they finally overcome the Alabama hurdle and claim SEC supremacy? Their combination of a stifling defense and improving offense makes them a serious threat.

Oklahoma’s High-Powered Offense

Lincoln Riley’s Oklahoma Sooners have been an offensive juggernaut, but questions about their defense have held them back. Has Oklahoma finally found the right balance to compete for a national title? With another year of development for their young talent, the Sooners could be primed for a championship run.

Dark Horse Contenders: Who Could Surprise in 2022?

While the favorites dominate the conversation, several teams with longer odds could make noise in the playoff race. Texas A&M, LSU, and Iowa State, all listed at +3000, have the potential to shake up the college football landscape.

Texas A&M’s Rise Under Jimbo Fisher

Jimbo Fisher has steadily built the Aggies into a formidable program. Can Texas A&M take the next step and challenge for SEC and national supremacy? With a strong recruiting class and growing confidence, the Aggies are a team to watch.

LSU’s Bounce-Back Potential

After a disappointing 2020 season, LSU looks to return to the form that saw them win the national title in 2019. Do the Tigers have the talent and coaching to make a quick turnaround? Their performance could be one of the most intriguing storylines of the 2022 season.

Iowa State’s Breakthrough Opportunity

Matt Campbell has transformed Iowa State into a consistent winner, but can the Cyclones take the final leap to national contention? With key players returning, including quarterback Brock Purdy, Iowa State has the experience and talent to potentially crash the playoff party.

Long Shots and Sleepers: Teams with Intriguing Value

Beyond the favorites and dark horses, several teams with odds of +5000 or higher offer intriguing value for bettors and fans alike. These programs, while facing long odds, have the potential to make surprising runs and shake up the college football landscape.

Coastal Carolina’s Cinderella Story

After an impressive 2020 campaign, Coastal Carolina enters 2022 with +15000 odds. Can the Chanticleers build on their success and make a case for playoff consideration? Their unconventional offense and growing confidence make them an interesting long shot.

Cincinnati’s Quest for Respect

The Cincinnati Bearcats, listed at +8000, aim to prove that a Group of Five team can compete for a national title. Will their strong defense and experienced offense be enough to overcome the perception gap? A challenging non-conference schedule provides opportunities for statement wins.

Miami’s Resurgence Under Manny Diaz

At +7500, the Miami Hurricanes hope to recapture their former glory. Can Manny Diaz lead “The U” back to national prominence? With an exciting quarterback in D’Eriq King and improving talent across the board, Miami could surprise in the ACC and beyond.

Conference Battles: The Path to the Playoff

The road to the College Football Playoff runs through the major conferences, each with its own set of contenders and storylines. How will these conference races shape the national championship picture?

SEC Dominance and Parity

The SEC has long been considered the premier conference in college football. Will Alabama continue its reign, or can challengers like Georgia, Texas A&M, or LSU dethrone the Crimson Tide? The depth of the conference means every week presents a potential upset opportunity.

ACC’s Clemson and the Challengers

Clemson has dominated the ACC in recent years, but teams like North Carolina (+5000) and Miami are looking to close the gap. Can anyone in the conference prevent another Clemson playoff appearance?

Big Ten’s Ohio State and the Pursuit Pack

Ohio State stands as the clear favorite in the Big Ten, but teams like Wisconsin (+5000) and Penn State (+7500) hope to challenge for conference supremacy. Will the Buckeyes’ grip on the Big Ten loosen in 2022?

Big 12 Battles: Oklahoma and Iowa State Lead the Way

Oklahoma remains the team to beat in the Big 12, but Iowa State’s rise adds intrigue to the conference race. Can other programs like Texas (+5000) or Oklahoma State (+10000) make a push for the title?

Pac-12’s Parity and Playoff Aspirations

The Pac-12 has struggled to place teams in the playoff in recent years. Can Oregon (+5000) or USC (+5000) break through and return the conference to national prominence? The parity within the Pac-12 makes for exciting football but can also hinder a team’s playoff chances.

Factors Influencing Championship Odds

Understanding the various elements that shape national championship odds can provide valuable insight for both fans and bettors. What key factors contribute to a team’s perceived chances of winning it all?

Returning Production and Experience

Teams with a high number of returning starters, particularly at key positions like quarterback, often receive more favorable odds. How does returning production correlate with championship success? While experience is valuable, it’s not the only predictor of success, as teams like Alabama have shown with their ability to reload quickly.

Coaching Stability and Expertise

Programs with established, successful coaches tend to receive more respect from oddsmakers. Why do coaches like Nick Saban, Dabo Swinney, and Ryan Day inspire such confidence? Their track records of developing talent and winning big games play a significant role in shaping championship expectations.

Strength of Schedule

A team’s path to the playoff can significantly impact their odds. How do challenging non-conference games and tough conference schedules factor into championship considerations? While a difficult schedule can lead to losses, it also provides opportunities for resume-building wins that impress the playoff committee.

Recruiting Success and Talent Development

Programs that consistently bring in top recruiting classes often find themselves with favorable championship odds. Can raw talent overcome experience and coaching? The best programs find a balance between recruiting elite prospects and developing that talent over time.

The Impact of Recent Rule Changes and Trends

College football is an evolving landscape, with recent changes potentially impacting the championship race. How might these factors influence the 2022 season and beyond?

Transfer Portal Dynamics

The increasing player movement through the transfer portal has changed how teams build and maintain their rosters. How does this impact championship odds and team building strategies? Programs that effectively utilize the transfer portal to address weaknesses can quickly improve their championship outlook.

Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) Considerations

The introduction of NIL rights for student-athletes adds a new dimension to college football. Will this change impact competitive balance and influence where top recruits choose to play? It’s too early to say definitively, but NIL opportunities could become a factor in shaping the college football landscape.

Playoff Expansion Discussions

While not impacting the 2022 season, ongoing talks about expanding the College Football Playoff could change future championship dynamics. How might an expanded playoff alter championship odds and strategies in the coming years? Teams currently on the playoff bubble might see their odds improve with more spots available.

Expert Insights: Hunt’s Picks and Predictions

Football expert Emory Hunt, founder and CEO of Football Gameplan, offers his analysis of the 2022 national championship landscape. With a track record of success in college football picks, Hunt’s insights provide valuable perspective for fans and bettors alike.

Value Picks and Teams to Fade

Hunt suggests caution when considering Alabama at +260, citing the team’s significant losses and increased competition within the SEC. Which teams does Hunt see as offering better value? While he doesn’t reveal all his picks, he hints at finding value in teams with longer odds that have the potential to surprise.

The Massive Long Shot

Intriguingly, Hunt is high on a team with odds higher than 40-1 to win the national championship. Who could this dark horse candidate be? While Hunt keeps the specific team under wraps, it suggests that he sees potential for a major surprise in the 2022 season.

Factors Behind Hunt’s Analysis

As a former player himself, Hunt brings a unique perspective to his analysis. What elements does he consider when evaluating teams’ championship potential? His approach likely combines statistical analysis, evaluation of returning talent, and insights into team culture and coaching to form his predictions.

The road to the 2022 College Football Playoff National Championship promises to be filled with excitement, surprises, and intense competition. While the usual suspects lead the odds, the potential for upsets and breakthrough performances keeps fans and analysts eagerly anticipating the season ahead. As teams prepare for the challenges that await, the dream of hoisting the national championship trophy in January 2023 drives players, coaches, and fans alike.

2022 College Football Playoff National Championship odds: Proven expert reveals picks to win, teams to fade

Nick Saban’s teams are always in the national championship mix, but this year he’ll certainly have his work cut out. With the loss of numerous key starters to graduation and the NFL, Alabama has tried to reload. Alabama is still the favorite in the 2022 college football national championship odds at +260 at Caesars Sportsbook. Other top national championship favorites include Clemson at +400 and Ohio State at +600.

Other teams garnering consideration are Georgia and Oklahoma, both at +750. Texas A&M, LSU and Iowa State are all at +3000. No other team is better than +4000. However there are plenty of teams at +5000 who are could crash the playoffs and make a surprising run. Before making any 2022 college football championship winner picks, you need to see what SportsLine football expert Emory Hunt has to say.

Hunt is the founder and CEO of Football Gameplan, which has been supplying analysis of all levels of football since 2007, and a former running back at Louisiana-Lafayette. He knows the game from a player’s perspective.

Hunt went 178-149 on his college football picks over the past two seasons, returning $1,477 to $100 players. Anybody who has been following him is way up.

Now, Hunt has his sights set on finding value in the 2022 college football national championship odds. You can see Hunt’s top college football picks and CFP predictions only at SportsLine.

Top 2022 College Football National Championship predictions

One surprise: Hunt doesn’t like the value of Alabama at +260. Saban is no stranger to having to reload his depth chart. But the challenge is particularly daunting this year after seeing six key players be picked in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft. That included quarterback Mac Jones and Heisman-winning receiver DeVonta Smith.

Bryce Young is set to take over at quarterback, with skills players like receiver John Metchie III and running back Bryan Robinson Jr. expected to take on bigger roles. The defense could be better with key pieces like LaBryan Ray and Josh Jobe anchoring that side of the ball.

But Hunt sees the SEC having a more level playing field this year. Georgia looks to be a serious title contender, and there’s plenty of talent at Florida, LSU, Auburn, Texas A&M, Ole Miss and elsewhere. 

“There are just too many concerns for the Crimson Tide, combined with the amount of returning talent others in the SEC have, to feel confident that they’ll make it through the season unscathed and win the national championship,” Hunt told SportsLine. 

How to make 2022 College Football National Championship picks

Hunt has locked in his best value pick to win it all, and he’s also high on a massive long shot that comes in higher than 40-1. You need to see Hunt’s analysis and NCAA predictions before making any 2022 college football national championship bets of your own.

So who is the best value to win it all? And which huge long shot could stun college football? Visit SportsLine to see Hunt’s latest 2022 College Football Playoff national championship odds and predictions, all from the football expert who’s up almost $1,500 to $100 players over the past two years, and find out.

2022 College Football National Championship odds

Alabama Crimson Tide +260
Clemson Tigers +400
Ohio State Buckeyes +600
Georgia Bulldogs +750
Oklahoma Sooners +750
Iowa State Cyclones +3000
LSU Tigers +3000
Texas A&M Aggies +3000
Florida Gators +4000
Notre Dame Fighting Irish +4000
North Carolina Tar Heels +5000
Oregon Ducks +5000
Texas Longhorns +5000
USC Trojans +5000
Wisconsin Badgers +5000
Miami FL Hurricanes +7500
Penn State Nittany Lions +7500
Cincinnati Bearcats +8000
Arizona State Sun Devils +10000
Auburn Tigers +10000
Indiana Hoosiers +10000
Iowa Hawkeyes +10000
Michigan Wolverines +10000
Northwestern Wildcats +10000
Oklahoma State Cowboys +10000
Washington Huskies +10000
West Virginia Mountaineers +10000
Coastal Carolina Chanticleers +15000
Florida State Seminoles +15000
NC State Wolfpack +15000
Nebraska Cornhuskers +15000
Ole Miss Rebels +15000
Stanford Cardinal +15000
TCU Horned Frogs +15000
UCLA Bruins +15000
Utah Utes +15000
Virginia Tech Hokies +15000
Arkansas Razorbacks +20000
BYU Cougars +20000
Boise State Broncos +20000
Colorado Buffaloes +20000
Kentucky Wildcats +20000
Liberty Flames +20000
Minnesota Golden Gophers +20000
Mississippi State Bulldogs +20000
Missouri Tigers +20000
Baylor Bears +25000
Boston College Eagles +25000
Kansas State Wildcats +25000
Louisiana Ragin Cajuns +25000
Pittsburgh Panthers +25000
Tennessee Volunteers +25000
Texas Tech Red Raiders +25000
UCF Knights +25000
Virginia Cavaliers +25000
Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets +30000
Maryland Terrapins +30000
Michigan State Spartans +30000
Tulsa Golden Hurricane +30000
Arizona Wildcats +50000
Army Black Knights +50000
Ball State Cardinals +50000
Buffalo Bulls +50000
Houston Cougars +50000
Illinois Fighting Illini +50000
Louisville Cardinals +50000
Marshall Thundering Herd +50000
Memphis Tigers +50000
Oregon State Beavers +50000
Purdue Boilermakers +50000
SMU Mustangs +50000
San Diego State Aztecs +50000
San Jose State Spartans +50000
South Carolina Gamecocks +50000
UAB Blazers +50000
Wake Forest Demon Deacons +50000
Washington State Cougars +50000
California Golden Bears +75000
Duke Blue Devils +75000
Nevada Wolf Pack +75000
Air Force Falcons +100000
Appalachian State Mountaineers +100000
East Carolina Pirates +100000
Florida Atlantic Owls +100000
Hawaii Rainbow Warriors +100000
Louisiana Tech Bulldogs +100000
Navy Midshipmen +100000
Syracuse Orange +100000
UTSA Roadrunners +100000
Vanderbilt Commodores +100000
Western Kentucky Hilltoppers +100000
Tulane Green Wave +150000
Georgia Southern Eagles +200000
Kansas Jayhawks +200000
South Florida Bulls +200000
Temple Owls +200000
UNLV Rebels +200000
Utah State Aggies +200000
Wyoming Cowboys +200000
Colorado State Rams +250000
Fresno State Bulldogs +250000
Georgia State Panthers +250000
North Texas Mean Green +250000
Toledo Rockets +250000
Western Michigan Broncos +250000
Arkansas State Red Wolves +500000
Central Michigan Chippewas +500000
Charlotte 49ers +500000
Eastern Michigan Eagles +500000
FIU Panthers +500000
Kent State Golden Flashes +500000
Miami OH Redhawks +500000
Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders +500000
New Mexico Lobos +500000
Northern Illinois Huskies +500000
Ohio Bobcats +500000
Rice Owls +500000
South Alabama Jaguars +500000
Southern Miss Golden Eagles +500000
Texas State Bobcats +500000
Troy Trojans +500000
UTEP Miners +500000
Akron Zips +1000000
Bowling Green Falcons +1000000
Louisiana-Monroe Warhawks +1000000
New Mexico State Aggies +1000000
Old Dominion Monarchs +1000000
UConn Huskies +1000000
UMass Minutemen +1000000

The favorite (Alabama), a legitimate long shot (TCU) and 13 teams with interesting odds – The Athletic

FBS teams have put a bow on their spring practices, and now our attention turns to the summertime. It’s never really too early to look at the odds to win the 2022 College Football National Championship. So let’s take a stroll through the landscape and look at:

• The 2020-21 college football playoff teams
• Five teams on the cusp of breaking through
• Five logical long shots
• One “group of five” school that will be a serious factor in 2021

All the odds you see below come from BetMGM, and it’s running a first-time-bet special through this link. Good luck if you choose to partake. If not, enjoy the analysis and please feel free to drop your takes in the comments!

Odds to win the national championship

Team	Odds (5/4/2021)
	5-to-2
	7-to-2
	5-to-1
	7-to-1
	9-to-1
	25-to-1
	35-to-1
	35-to-1
	40-to-1
	40-to-1
Miami (FL)	40-to-1
	40-to-1
Iowa State	40-to-1
	50-to-1
	50-to-1
	50-to-1
	50-to-1
	50-to-1
	50-to-1
Arizona St.	66-to-1
	150-to-1

(All the odds can be found here.)

2021 Playoff teams

Alabama (5-to-2)

Alabama just watched 10 players get drafted into the NFL; six went in the first round. Despite the loss of that much elite talent, many believe the Crimson Tide will be in the mix to win another championship. Bryce Young is actually expected to add a dynamic that Bama missed with Mac Jones with his legs. Cameron Latu is expected to provide tight end explosiveness, and despite the loss of three of the Tide’s all-time best weapons, running back Brian Robinson Jr. and receiver John Metchie III will combine with freshman receiving phenom Agiye Hall to give the Tide effective weapons for Young. Still, this is a tough bet because some of these other teams will be looking to take Alabama down with veteran-laden rosters.

My take: Wait and see. This is not a number that’s enticing. Alabama is always in the mix but they don’t always win. You have to put legit money down to reap the benefit. I’d rather wait and see what they are before dropping triple digits on the Tide.

Clemson (7-to-2)

Say goodbye to Trevor Lawrence and Travis Etienne … and hello to the most talented defense in the country. Yes, the Tigers are losing their two most important weapons on the team, but there is an embarrassment of riches on the defensive side, and those players received a lot of snaps last season. The defense will be led by a couple of sophomore defensive linemen, Brian Bresee and Myles Murphy. The secondary should be improved as well. Quarterback D.J. Uiagalelei seems to be the man now, but he has not shown the consistent big-play ability of his two immediate predecessors. He’ll have a long list of receivers to throw to, with Justyn Ross, Joseph Ngata and Ajou Ajou all set to return; Ngata and Ajou have been explosive in the spring. The ACC will be improved, and the question during the upcoming season for the Tigers will be if they can win a shootout.

My take: Wait and see. Yes, they look promising but is 3.5-to-1 enough to make you slap your money down? Not me.

Ohio State (5-to-1)

Who will replace Justin Fields? Can the Buckeyes replace Justin Fields? CJ Stroud definitely has the lead going into the summer and has played well. Whoever takes over will inherit a proven impact receiving corps, led by Chris Olave and Garrett Wilson. The Buckeyes have Alabama-level talent pass-catchers, and that is a scary thing for defensive secondaries. Coach Ryan Day has shown that his teams know how to score points in big games, but the defense has not been able to slow offenses in times of need. Can Jack Sawyer be the extra boost as a pass rusher the defense needs to corral the elite offenses in the College Football Playoff? That pressure will help make the defensive backfield’s job easier.

My take: Lay it down. The defensive and offensive weapons warrant a few units early; if they come out strong, put more down.

Notre Dame (40-to-1)

The Fighting Irish went to the Playoff last season, and it was evident they were outmatched. Although the loss came at the hands of Alabama, there’s a good chance Notre Dame was going to lose that game by a couple of touchdowns to any of the teams in the Playoff. Ian Book finally left school, along with three starters on the offensive line, a tight end and a wide receiver. All of them heard their names called during the NFL Draft, along with Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah and two other defensive linemen. It’s not every season that Notre Dame loses so much high-level talent. History has shown that the Irish are not just plug-and-play like many of the powers in college football. Losses like these will definitely damage their opportunity to return to the Playoff in the coming season.

My take: Fade. When has Notre Dame made progress after losing so much? If I’m wrong I can get them later and they will still have good value.

Are they really coming?

Florida (40-to-1)

This would not be the first time that UF lost a significant amount of talent and still elevated. Yes, three dynamic playmakers are gone from the offense, with Kyle Pitts, Kadarius Toney and Kyle Trask all going in the first two rounds of the NFL Draft, but many believe the defense will be vastly improved. Emory Jones seems to be the guy stepping in for Trask, and although he is not as accurate as his predecessor, his ability with his legs should make the offense more unpredictable.

My take: Wait and see. It’s probably wise to wait and see what the offense looks like. Especially since UF did not have open spring practices.

Miami (40-to-1)

This is the most intriguing squad in the ACC. The offense will be loaded with talent. D’Eriq King will return and bring his playmaking ability back to Coral Gables. With the addition of Charleston Rambo from Oklahoma to an already dynamic receiving corps with big-play ability, the Hurricanes should be a problem in the passing game. King, Knighton and Harris carrying the ball will give them a running game comparable to anyone in the conference. The defense will have playmakers everywhere, especially in the secondary with Bubba Bolden, Al Blades Jr. and more. The question: Can Miami win the big games? You won’t have to wait long to find out. The Hurricanes open the season at Alabama. If they win, you can guarantee they won’t be +4,000 afterward.

My take: Lay it down. This is worth a bet with so many contributors back and a potential Heisman candidate. If they beat Bama to start the season, I will never get these odds again.

Iowa State (40-to-1)

The Cyclones return almost everybody of note, including quarterback Brock Purdy. But the time for them to be darlings or Cinderellas is over; there will be expectations now. With so much upheaval in the Big 12, there is no reason not to believe that the Cyclones have as good of a chance as any to emerge with the Big 12 title. That will certainly make it difficult to leave them out, especially if they are only sitting with one loss. Can that 3-3-5 defense get enough stops against the free-wheeling offenses of the Big 12? We shall see.

My take: Lay it down. There’s a chance people were a year early on them. It’s worth a small bet to see if this can be the year they take the Big 12 over.

Oregon (50-to-1)

The defense has a new coordinator to break in, and the offense has a quarterback battle that needs to shake out, but there are weapons everywhere — on offense and defense. The Ducks will likely be one of the preseason favorites to win the Pac-12. They will be explosive on offense with Johnny Johnson III, Jaylon Redd, and CJ Verdell back for another season. The defense will be anchored by Kayvon Thibodeaux, who has been compared to Von Miller. Add in a top-10 recruiting class and it’s no wonder that the expectations are high. The eternal question for the Ducks: Will they have a letdown game against a team they should beat?

My take: Lay it down. There is no better offensive line coach in the country than Mario Cristobal. Oregon will have an advantage in the Pac-12. That will put the pressure on the committee to put them in the playoff.

Texas (50-to-1)

Another new coaching staff means new optimism. But how realistic is it? Yes, Steve Sarkisian had a lot of success as a coordinator at Alabama — but, as history has shown us, that doesn’t always equate to success as a head coach. The Longhorns must replace Sam Ehlinger at quarterback as well as a few more key players who have moved on to pursue professional careers. They lost six starters and a few key contributors to the transfer portal. This was a 7-3 team last season, so it’s not like they are far away, but they need to win a big game in the regular season and figure out how to avoid playing down to their competition. This is an intriguing team because of the name on the front of the jerseys, and we all know the power they wield when they have it all going. We just have not seen that in a long time.

My take: Fade. There’s no reason to rush into anything here. Maybe use that long shot money to go to Starbucks.

Realistic long shots

Ole Miss (100-to-1)

This is such an intriguing team because it was electric offensively last season. The problems were on defense. Outside of receiver Elijah Moore and tight end Kenny Yeboah, almost everyone of note is back. That includes Dontario Drummond and Braylon Sanders at receiver, three backs who form the best rushing attack in the SEC, four starting offensive linemen and quarterback Matt Corral. With so many teams in the SEC taking a step back because of really talented graduating classes, it is definitely possible that Ole Miss could make a run. Lane Kiffin has shown that he has something for Alabama on offense, but can the defense improve enough to allow the offense to shine?

My take: Lay it down. Ole Miss should have a legit offense and improved defense. They are in the SEC West, so even if they lose a game they still have a way into the playoff.

Indiana (100-to-1)

The Hoosiers will return a lot of their production from the 2020 season, and that is important. To have an opportunity to beat the premier schools in the Big 10, teams have to be anchored by experience. Michael Penix will be back at quarterback, and he is one of the most dynamic signal callers in the league. Sampson James, D.J. Matthews and Zach Carpenter will step in for losses at running back, receiver, and center. On defense, they have experienced depth to replace contributors like Jerome Johnson, Jamar Johnson and Jovan Swann. If the Hoosiers can find a way to get into the Big 10 Championship Game, they will be a tough out for whomever they face on the other side.

My take: Fade. While Indiana is a good story, putting money on them is the gambling Vegas wants you to do.

TCU (150-to-1)

The Horned Frogs are poised for a breakout season. Quarterback Max Duggan and receiver Quentin Johnston headline an offensive skill group that also includes running back Zach Evans, who averaged close to 8 yards per carry last season in a crowded backfield, and Savion Williams, who is a 6-foot-5 speedster who flashed as a kick returner in 2020. The defense will always be a problem for opposing offenses. The safety group of Memphis transfer TJ Carter, Nook Bradford, and Bud Clark could become the strength of this defense in 2021. The Horned Frogs have a chance to catch Big 12 opponents sleeping — and if they do, they could slip through the back door into playoff contention.

My take: Wait and see. Keep a few dollars handy because if they come strong out of the gate, I’ll quickly throw those dollars down.

Louisville (150-to-1)

Louisville definitely goes through cycles. The Cardinals have been a proverbial Jekyll and Hyde over the past four seasons. They were 8-5 in 2017, 2-10 in 2018, 8-5 in 2019 and 4-7 last season. If that trend continues, they should be in line for a good season. The boost could come if Clemson takes a step back. The Cardinals have a lot of experienced offensive and defensive linemen returning this season, and that should allow them to dominate other teams who are breaking in new players in the trenches. The hype for Malik Cunningham might have been one season too early, as he finished with an up-and-down 2020 but will definitely be the catalyst for a successful 2021 season.

My take: Fade. Clemson, UNC, Miami, and Pittsburgh will be extremely difficult to jump. Admire this one over a Wendy’s 4 for $4 meal that you spent the cash on.

UCLA (150-to-1)

The Bruins lost only one key player from their 2020 defense, and that was defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa. They should be improved everywhere else on defense, especially with sixth-year players Obi Eboh and Qwuantrezz Knight and multi-year starter Quentin Lake back there to improve one of the worst passing defenses in the country. With Dorian Thompson-Robinson back for another season at quarterback, Chip Kelly could be looking at his team taking the next step — or at least a different step.

My take: Wait and see. This is the time that Chip Kelly gets it rolling but at 150-to-1 I can afford to take a look at them before I buy.

Group of Five

Cincinnati (150-to-1)

Head coach Luke Fickell is building a monster in Cincinnati. That monster is big, physical, tough and explosive. And that explosion is led by quarterback Desmond Ridder, who will be in the QB1 conversation in the 2022 NFL Draft. He is dynamic with his arm and legs and will definitely be a major reason this team succeeds or fails. Another reason will be that the Bearcats have the best defense in the AAC. They have the ability to slow down the free-wheeling offenses in the conference, which gives them a major advantage. If they take care of business again this season, Cincinnati will put the playoff selection committee in a legitimate bind.

My take: Lay it down. This is a legit bet!! If you have $10 (or even a little more) to put down on Cincy, it is a good investment. Then bet them on a week-to-week basis so you are free-rolling by the time the bet becomes a legit possibility.

(Photo of Miami’s D’Eriq King: Al Diaz / Miami Herald / Tribune News Service via Getty Images)

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Alabama vs. Ohio State: Date, time, TV channel for the 2021 National Championship Game

The College Football Playoff era had its seventh edition in the 2020-21 season. No. 1 Alabama defeated No. 3 Ohio State 52-24 in the National Championship Game on  Jan. 11, 2021. The game was aired on ESPN.

CFP TITLE GAME RECAP: Score, stats, latest news from Alabama’s win over Ohio State

Here was our quick preview before the game.  

Either Alabama or Ohio State will add to the program’s CFP pile.

The Tide hope to win their third CFP national championship as OSU attempts for its second when the two meet on Monday, Jan. 11, 2021 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida.

Both teams are also undefeated, though Alabama is 12-0 and the Buckeyes are 7-0. For much of the season, foes and struggled — and failed — to slow down these offenses. Ohio State RB Trey Sermon rushed for 331 yards to beat Northwestern and QB Justin Fields had 385 passing yards and six touchdowns in the blowout win against Clemson in the CFP semifinals.

Then there’s Alabama. QB Mac Jones has 4,036 passing yards and WR DeVonta Smith has 1,641 receiving yards with 20 touchdowns and the Heisman Trophy. Smith is the first receiver to win the Heisman since Michigan’s Desmond Howard in 1991.

One of the defenses hopes to slow down the efficient offenses, as this will probably be a high-scoring matchup.

The last time these two played, OSU upset No. 1 Alabama behind a huge game from star RB Ezekiel Elliott. Yet again, Ohio State gets a chance to shock the top-ranked Tide.

But could this meeting be different? Ohio State just saw Fields deliver with a big game against Clemson to knock out the Tigers. He may have to do that again, as Alabama will likely score plenty of points itself.

As has been the case all season long, Alabama will have Mac Jones throwing to DeVonta Smith a ton. That may be enough again.

You can read more on the game and follow it live with us here.

Here’s a look at the upcoming CFP schedule:

When is the 2021 College Football Playoff national championship?

The CFP national championship will be played at 8 p.m. ET on Monday, Jan. 11, 2021, in Miami, Florida. The game is on ESPN. It’s the second time the CFP title game will be played in Florida. Tampa’s Raymond James Stadium held the 2016 season (2017 game date) showdown, when Clemson beat Alabama 35-31.

Below is a complete history of the College Football Playoff national championship game.

When are the 2020-21 College Football Playoff semifinals?

The 2020-21 CFP semifinals were on Friday, Jan. 1, 2021, at the Sugar Bowl and now at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The game at AT&T Stadium was previously scheduled to be at the Rose Bowl, but the CFP announced the game has been moved due to “the growing number of COVID-19 cases in Southern California.”

RANKINGS: Latest College Football Playoff poll | AP Poll | USA TODAY Coaches’ Poll

2021-2026 CFP national championship locations and dates

2021:     Miami-South Florida (Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida) – Jan. 11
2022:     Indianapolis (Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, Indiana) – Jan. 10
2023:     Los Angeles (Los Angeles Stadium at Hollywood Park, Inglewood, California) – Jan. 9
2024:     Houston (NRG Stadium, Houston, Texas) – Jan. 8
2025:     Location TBD – Jan. 6
2026:     Location TBD – Jan. 5

RELATED: Complete college football championship history | Schools with the most titles

When was the 2020-21 College Football Playoff field selected?

The four teams selected to the 2020-21 College Football Playoff were announced in a final top 25 rankings reveal on Sunday, Dec. 20. Originally scheduled for Dec. 6, this final rankings release was pushed back two weeks as a result of several conferences moving their championship games to Dec. 12, 18 or 19.

2019-20 College Football Playoff scores, results

Peach Bowl (College Football Playoff semifinal) — Dec. 28
No. 1 LSU 63, No. 4 Oklahoma 28
Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Atlanta, GA

Fiesta Bowl (College Football Playoff semifinal) — Dec. 28
No. 3 Clemson 29, No. 2 Ohio State 23
State Farm Stadium
Glendale, AZ

College Football Playoff National Championship Game) — Jan. 13, 2020
No. 1 LSU 42, No. 3 Clemson 25
Mercedes-Benz Superdome
New Orleans, LA

2022 College Football National Championship

MAIN Football College Football College Bowl National Championship

WHEN: January 10, 2022 at 8PM ET.
WHERE: Live on ESPN from
Hard Rock Stadium in Miami

With the new year comes a new team named the college national champs!

On the road to college football championship glory — it will be the Cotton Bowl and the Orange Bowl that willl serve as the playoffs this year. Both semifinal games play out on New Year’s Day, January 1, 2022.

The 2022 national championship game will be televised on Monday, January 10, 2022 on ESPN beginning at 8:00PM ET live from the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.

2021 College Football Championship rewind

No. 1 Alabama rolled with a soul-crushing 52-24 win over No. 3 Ohio State in this year’s championship.

Even with the departure of a number of key players during this pandemic year, it was quarterback Mac Jones, running back Najee Harris, and Heisman Trophy winner Devonta Smith who brought the Crimson Tide to its 18th national title.

All about the College Football National Championship

Under the new rules established in 2014, semifinals currently rotate among six different bowl games. They are the Rose Bowl, Sugar Bowl, Orange Bowl, Cotton Bowl, Fiesta Bowl, and Peach Bowl.

Much like the NFL playoffs, teams are seeded according to their performances throughout the year. The top four teams then go on to the semifinals, leading to the national championship to determine the current season’s No. 1 team.

College Football National Championship around the Web:

College Football Championship Game – Wikipedia

College Football on Yahoo! Sports – Browse the complete college football breakdown with the latest news, rumors, scores & standings, related slide shows & photo galleries, broadcast schedule.

also see->Super Bowl 2022

College Football Playoff National Championship game: Alabama-Ohio State preview, how to watch & more

The College Football Playoff National Championship will be played between the Alabama Crimson Tide and the Ohio State Buckeyes on Jan. 11, 2021. The game will be played at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fla.

It has been a long road for the college football season and it will culminate in the final game of the season come Monday night. Both teams have dealt with coronavirus issues, and Ohio State is still dealing with some COVID-19 problems as the game gets closer.

Rumors have swirled about the possibility of the game being pushed back because of the Buckeyes’ issues with the illness. But coach Ryan Day said Thursday that the team was on track to play on time, according to ESPN.

It’s been a few years since Alabama has been in the national title game. (John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports)

“Any time you deal with that, and lose people, it is a gut punch,” Day told reporters. “But it’s not something we’re not used to. We’ve had starters all over the place down. We’ve just found ways to work through it. You can feel sorry for yourself, or you can continue to work on and push through it. For us, that’s why the story about this season is so amazing to me. We continue to push through despite all these difficult challenges along the way, and [it’s] no different this week. We got a new set of challenges this week. We’re going to have to figure it out, go down to Miami and play.”

CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE COLLEGE FOOTBALL COVERAGE

Ohio State got through Clemson with relative ease in the semifinal. Justin Fields threw six touchdown passes and the team proved that even though it only played six games, it belonged in the final four, no matter where Dabo Swinney ranked the Buckeyes in his final coaches’ poll.

Alabama’s defense might struggle when facing such a high-powered offense. Fields along with Trey Sermon and Chris Olave isn’t an offense anyone would really want to mess with. Alabama ran over Notre Dame in their playoff semifinal.

Heisman Trophy winner Devonta Smith will be the person Ohio State needs to keep an eye on. Mac Jones and Najee Harris can also provide a big punch. Should the Crimson Tide get Jaylen Waddle back, then the offense might have a field day against a beleaguered Ohio State team dealing with a COVID crisis.

Ohio State head coach Ryan Day hugs quarterback Justin Fields after their win against Clemson in the Sugar Bowl NCAA college football game Friday, Jan. 1, 2021, in New Orleans. Ohio State won 49-28. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)

At the home of last year’s Super Bowl, Alabama will be looking for its third national championship since 2015 and Ohio State will be looking for its second in that same span.

Here’s what to know about the game and the recent winners.

**

NATIONAL TITLE GAME INFO

Sponsor: AT&T

Date: January 11

Time (ET): 8 p.m.

TV: ESPN

Location: Miami Gardens, Fla.

Stadium: Hard Rock Stadium

**

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RECENT NATIONAL CHAMPIONS

2020: LSU

2019: Clemson

2018: Alabama

2017: Clemson

2016: Alabama

2015: Ohio State

10 Teams That Actually Have a Chance to Win the 2021 College Football Playoff | Bleacher Report

0 of 10

Lynne Sladky/Associated Press

The 2021 College Football Playoff is many months away, but history says we already have a strong indication of who will win the national championship.

Every year, several teams are dramatically overrated or undervalued heading into the season. From an accountability perspective, it can be humorous—or even nauseating—to see which personal projections end up looking like disasters.

However, the national champion is often in the Top 10 of the preseason AP poll. In the last 20 years, the champion has only held a Nos. 11-15 ranking three times and once fallen outside the Top 20.

While the list is subjective, programs with the strongest perception in the preseason indeed tend to be the most competitive.

1 of 10

John Bazemore/Associated Press

Six championships in the last 12 years. Pretty simple, right?

We can mention every obstacle, ranging from the normal SEC schedule to a roster undergoing a large amount of transition. Most specifically, Alabama needs to replace three top-five Heisman Trophy finishers on offense and the SEC Defensive Player of the Year.

But this isn’t new territory, either. Nick Saban has established a powerhouse, and the 2021 depth chart will be loaded with 5-stars and other former blue-chip prospects.

Alabama, which has a single three-loss record in the last 13 seasons, is an obvious inclusion.

2 of 10

Josh Morgan/Associated Press

Given its returning talent and conference affiliation, Clemson is the most likely team to reach the College Football Playoff.

While the ACC is a decent league, Dabo Swinney and Co. have created an enormous gap at the top of the conference. The program has dropped only three ACC contests in the last six years, and that number might not rise in 2021.

Star quarterback Trevor Lawrence is a major loss, but Clemson has D.J. Uiagalelei ready to take over and returns the entire defense other than two linemen and a linebacker.

Really, it would be stunning if Clemson isn’t in the CFP.

3 of 10

Brynn Anderson/Associated Press

Along with a few others, Georgia is a popular way-too-early championship pick for the 2021 campaign.

Largely, that’s because of quarterback JT Daniels’ strong finish to 2020. Georgia had a limited offense for most of the season, but the USC transfer threw 10 touchdowns while helping the Bulldogs win four straight games to close the year.

Daniels will become the full-time starter for a unit returning a strong majority of its production. Defensively, the Dawgs need to rebuild the secondary but are very experienced in the front seven.

After opening the season with Clemson, UGA’s schedule is relatively favorable. But that result will determine just how much margin for error the Bulldogs will have during SEC play.

4 of 10

Orlin Wagner/Associated Press

After earning a trip to the Big 12 title game in 2020, Iowa State has an excellent shot to contend for the national title.

In short: Basically everyone decided to stay.

Senior starters Greg Eisworth II, Jake Hummel, Sean Foster and Eyioma Uwazurike all opted to use the extra year of eligibility. Star juniors Brock Purdy, Charlie Kolar and Mike Rose each postponed the chance to pursue an NFL career, too. They’ll return alongside Breece Hall, one of the nation’s top running backs.

Iowa State needs to outlast Oklahoma when it matters most, but head coach Matt Campbell has a championship threat in 2021.

5 of 10

L.G. Patterson/Associated Press

LSU plummeted from a national championship to a 5-5 season. Considering what the Tigers lost following the 2019 campaign, that’s not incomprehensible. Simultaneously, it was really bad!

The result is some dramatically varying predictions for 2021.

Personally, I’d tell you LSU is a Top 25 team and not a major contender. There’s also a simple argument for the latter, and it’s based on Myles Brennan’s performance in limited action, the experience gained in a lost season and a home-heavy schedule. Alabama will host the rivalry game, but Auburn, Florida and Texas A&M will all travel to LSU.

With a couple of favorable bounces—or shoe throws—LSU will have a path back to the College Football Playoff.

6 of 10

Jay LaPrete/Associated Press

Replacing quarterback Justin Fields will not be easy, but Ohio State is built to navigate his departure. And while we could focus on the roster, the Buckeyes’ schedule is also awfully kind.

Yes, they host Oregon in early September. However, the other East Division threats have major concerns. Penn State and Michigan both had dreadful 2020 seasons, and Indiana needs quarterback Michael Penix Jr. to recover from an ACL injury.

Plus, the Buckeyes miss top West Division programs Wisconsin, Iowa and Northwestern in the regular season.

Ohio State has a terrific chance to enter the Big Ten Championship Game as an undefeated or one-loss team. Win there and the Buckeyes should return to the CFP.

7 of 10

Brandon Wade/Associated Press

Two early losses cost Oklahoma a shot at the 2020 CFP, but the Sooners ended the campaign on an eight-game winning streak and with a sixth consecutive Big 12 crown.

Although they don’t return quite as much production as Iowa State, they’re not terribly far off, either. The race for a Big 12 crown will be extremely competitive, and the Spencer Rattler-led Sooners are the deserving preseason favorite.

Rattler totaled 3,191 yards and 34 touchdowns last year, and Oklahoma only lost Charleston Rambo in the receiving corps. Additionally, running back Kennedy Brooks will return from his opt-out.

As long as the Sooners successfully retool the offensive line and reload at cornerback, they’ll be positioned for a fifth CFP trip.

8 of 10

Chris Pietsch/Associated Press

Now that quarterback Tyler Shough has transferred, Oregon is a tough inclusion. The 2021 schedule is loaded with road games, including an early tilt at Ohio State. Wisconsin and Notre Dame are among the teams with a reasonable case for the final spot.

Of the third-tier contenders, though, the Ducks have the most experienced team. Oregon is ninth in returning production, according to ESPN’s Bill Connelly. That includes star defensive end Kayvon Thibodeaux and several key linebackers.

Granted, it all comes back to the quarterback. Whether it’s Boston College transfer Anthony Brown, incoming freshman Ty Thompson or someone else, Oregon needs a new starter to navigate a tricky slate.

But thanks to their experience—especially on defense—the two-time reigning Pac-12 champs must be respected.

9 of 10

Butch Dill/Associated Press

Similar to Iowa State, Texas A&M received a valuable boost because of the eligibility freeze. Four defensive starters and two likely contributors are returning for another senior year. Overall, the Aggies only need to replace two first-stringers on defense.

That’s a strong start. Additionally, they’ll return top running backs Isaiah Spiller and Devon Achane, along with pass-catchers Ainias Smith, Jalen Wydermyer, Caleb Chapman and others.

Now, the Aggies need a quarterback.

The likely replacement for Kellen Mond is Haynes King, a former blue-chip recruit who’s attempted four passes in college. Without question, even a home-filled SEC West schedule is daunting for a first-year starter behind a retooled offensive line. But if King thrives, Texas A&M has a well-built roster surrounding him.

10 of 10

Ashley Landis/Associated Press

Consider this an absolute best-case scenario for USC, which has serious issues on the offensive line. If that doesn’t change, it’s totally plausible that poor blocking will ruin the Trojans’ season.

The passing game, though, keeps USC interesting.

Drake London and Bru McCoy are the foundation of a high-upside receiving corps for quarterback Kedon Slovis. Despite that flawed offensive line and no threat of a running game in 2020, the Trojans still averaged 33.3 points and posted a 5-1 record.

Plus, they have a favorable schedule. Trips to Notre Dame, Arizona State and Cal won’t be easy, yet the Trojans host Stanford and Utah while missing Oregon and Washington.

Like LSU, USC may need a couple of friendly bounces. But this offense and an unspectacular Pac-12 make that a real possibility.

Where is the College Football Playoff national championship game in 2021?

The end of the 2020 college football season is in sight as No. 1 Alabama and No. 3 Ohio State face off in the 2021 College Football Playoff championship game.

The Crimson Tide are looking for the first national title since 2017, which would give coach Nick Saban his sixth at Alabama and seventh overall (eclipsing Paul “Bear” Bryant for most all time). The Buckeyes, meanwhile, are looking for their first since the 2014 season — which included an upset of No. 1 Alabama in the Sugar Bowl semifinal.

MORE: Bama-OSU odds, predictions, betting trends

Will Monday’s matchup be another classic meeting between the two teams, or will fans be subject to yet another title game blowout? Either way, the host city of Miami Gardens, Fla., should be a worthy backdrop to the final game of the 2020 season.

Here’s everything you need to know as Alabama and Ohio State face off in the 2021 CFP title game:

Where is the College Football Playoff championship game in 2021?

• Location: Hard Rock Stadium (Miami Gardens, Fla.)
• Matchup: No. 1 Alabama vs. No. 3 Ohio State

For the first time of the College Football Playoff era, Hard Rock Stadium will host the CFP national title game. Still, it has been the site of several big games in recent years outside of the Orange Bowl, which it has hosted every season since 1996; that includes Super Bowl 54 and CFP semifinal games in 2015 and ’18. It also hosted the 2009 and 2013 BCS championship games.

The Crimson Tide are 2-0 all time while playing in Hard Rock Stadium. They beat No. 1 Notre Dame 42-14 in the 2013 BCS championship game (it was called Sun Life Stadium at the time) and No. 4 Oklahoma 45-34 in the 2018 Orange Bowl semifinal.

The Buckeyes are 0-1 all time there, losing 40-35 to Clemson in the 2012 Orange Bowl.

CFP championship game location by year

• TV channel: ESPN
• Start time: 8 p.m. ET

This season marks the seventh of 10 straight years where the CFP title game will take place in a new stadium. Following Alabama and Ohio State’s Monday matchup, the game will move to Indianapolis, Inglewood, Calif. and Houston. The College Football Playoff has not announced future venues beyond the 2023 college football season.

Year	Matchup	Location	Outcome
2015	No. 2 Oregon vs. No. 4 Ohio State	AT&T Stadium (Arlington, Texas)	Ohio State 42, Oregon 20
2016	No. 1 Clemson vs. No. 2 Alabama	University of Phoenix Stadium (Glendale, Ariz.)	Alabama 45, Clemson 40
2017	No. 1 Alabama vs. No. 2 Clemson	Raymond James Stadium (Tampa, Fla.)	Clemson 35, Alabama 31
2018	No. 3 Georgia vs. No. 4 Alabama	Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta)	Alabama 26, Georgia 23
2019	No. 1 Alabama vs. No. 2 Clemson	Levi’s Stadium (Santa Clara, Calif.)	Clemson 44, Alabama 16
2020	No. 1 LSU vs. No. 2 Clemson	Mercedes-Benz Superdome (New Orleans)	LSU 42, Clemson 25
2021	No. 1 Alabama vs. No. 3 Ohio State	Hard Rock Stadium (Miami Gardens, Fla.)	TBD
2022	TBD vs. TBD	Lucas Oil Stadium (Indianapolis)	TBD
2023	TBD vs. TBD	SoFi Stadium (Inglewood, Calif.)	TBD
2024	TBD vs. TBD	NRG Stadium (Houston)	TBD

How many fans can attend CFP title game?

Hard Rock Stadium, which has a listed capacity of 65,326, will host only 16,000 fans amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Below is ticket information on the 2021 CFP national title game:

Alabama vs. Ohio State odds

Alabama opened as a seven-point favorite against Ohio State; the line has jumped by one, with Alabama considered an eight-point favorite just days prior to the title game. Three of Sporting News’ four expert pickers think Alabama will win the national title game.

90,000 Football will be! Where and how the European Championship is held during the pandemic | Europe and Europeans: news and analytics | DW

The European Football Championship, postponed for a year due to the coronavirus pandemic, kicks off on Friday 11 June. Turkey and Italy will play in the opening match in Rome. The final will take place at London’s Wembley Stadium on 11 July.

This championship was supposed to be special even without covid – instead of the usual one or two neighboring host countries, Euro 2020 will be hosted in more than ten cities of different countries at once.DW has compiled the essentials to know about the most extraordinary European football championship in history.

Euro 2020. Why not Euro 2021?

Initially, the European Championship (European Championship) was to be held in June-July 2020. But when it became clear that due to the coronavirus pandemic, if the tournament could be held, then without spectators, the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) decided to postpone it for exactly one year.

Football ball with Euro 2020 logo

The name of the competition was not changed for two reasons.First: Euro 2020 was supposed to be a jubilee timed to coincide with the 60th anniversary of the debut of the European Championship in 1960. Then, by the way, the USSR national team players won. The second reason is more practical – by the time of the transfer of the championship, a significant part of the attributes, billboards and goods with the symbols of Euro 2020 had already been made. In the event of a name change, it would be necessary to throw out all these products and start producing a new one. UEFA considered it a waste of resources and harm to the environment.

Games will be held throughout Europe, despite the pandemic?

As a result, the European Football Championship in 2021 will be held in 11 cities and 10 countries. This is one city less than originally planned. The fact is that UEFA demanded that the local authorities confirm that spectators would be allowed to enter the stadium. Bilbao and Dublin refused to give such guarantees. As a result, Bilbao was replaced by Sevilla.

And from the capital of Ireland the matches were distributed to other cities hosting the tournament. In particular, three additional matches went to St. Petersburg.In addition to Seville and St. Petersburg, the final list of venues for the European Championship 2020 includes Amsterdam, Baku, Budapest, Bucharest, Glasgow, Copenhagen, Rome, Munich and London.

Who will be allowed to enter the stadium? Only vaccinated against covid? Is the test required?

In most cities, the stadiums will not be full. Only Budapest plans to put on the stands all 68 thousand spectators, which can accommodate the “Pushkash Arena”. Stadiums will be opened in St. Petersburg and Baku for 50% of the capacity. Amsterdam, Bucharest, Glasgow, Copenhagen, Rome, and Sevilla will play between 25% and 45% of the audience.

Munich plans to admit at least 14,500 spectators to the matches, that is, 22% of the total capacity of the stands, with a possible expansion of the quota during the competition. London will fill at least 25% of the stands during the group stage. For the July semi-finals and finals, which will be held in the UK capital, capacity may be increased.

London Wembley Stadium, which will host the Euro 2020 final on July 11

The main obstacle for fans to visit stadiums, in addition to reduced capacity, is entry restrictions due to the pandemic.There are no European Union exemptions for ticket holders. Often a negative COVID test or vaccination certificate is required to enter. But everywhere there are rules. Separate concessions for football fans with tickets for matches were introduced by Azerbaijan, Hungary and Russia.

Just before fans enter the stadiums, organizers can take temperature measurements or rapid tests for COVID-19. And during matches, spectators will be required to wear medical masks.

What about the format of the tournament? Can you even leave the group from third place?

Cup awarded to the European football champion

The current European championship will be held in the same way as Euro 2016.24 teams will compete for the victory, divided into six groups of four teams. Two best teams from each quartet will qualify for the 1/8 finals. As well as the top four teams in third place in the group stage. That is, those who will have more points, wins and better goal difference among the third in their groups. And then – the elimination games until the final.

Who will win the Euro? And what are the chances of the Germans?

After the football season crumpled due to the coronavirus, it is especially difficult to predict the outcome of the tournament. Among the main favorites, according to the bookmakers, are the reigning world champions – the French, as well as the national teams of Belgium and England, who have assembled powerful squads. The German national team is also listed in the top 5, which will hold the last tournament with Joahim Löw at the head. With this coach, the Bundesteam won the 2014 World Cup and will certainly try to show the maximum result in their common “last dance”.

The head coach of the German national team Joachim Loew

The favorites, of course, include the reigning European champions, the Portuguese, led by Cristiano Ronaldo.True, Portugal fell into the same group with France and Germany. So one of the favorites runs the risk of being eliminated at an early stage.

Spain, Italy and the Netherlands also have good chances for high places. Russia and Ukraine, according to bookmakers, are somewhere in the middle of the list of 24 national teams.

By the way, are all football players vaccinated against covid?

The Italian national team is the only team in which everyone is fully vaccinated against coronavirus. The Italian footballers and staff received the second dose of BioNTech / Pfizer vaccine at the end of May.As an exception, they were vaccinated on a priority basis, although in the EU countries the vaccine is primarily intended for people at risk – those with chronic diseases, the elderly or health workers.

The Belgian players also received the priority right to be vaccinated, but not all of them took advantage of it. In the rest of the teams, most of the players have so far been left without a vaccine. And in some teams, the first cases of infection have already been identified – two each in Spain and Sweden, one in Russia. On June 11, Spanish athletes were urgently vaccinated with the first dose of the vaccine, but this will not affect participation in the Euro, since it is believed that full immunity is developed only two weeks after the second vaccination.And by that time the tournament will be over.

Meanwhile, Spain has assembled an entire reserve team of 17 players, which trains separately from the main squad. These players will be able to reapply in case of new infections. Before the first match in the tournament, each team has the right to make an infinite number of substitutions in the application for illness or injury. Russia has already taken advantage of this opportunity, replacing midfielder Andrei Mostovoy, who picked up the covid, with defender Roman Evgeniev.

See also:

• 10 German football quotes

  Sometimes we lose, sometimes others win.+++ Mal verliert man und mal gewinnen die anderen.

  Otto Rehhagel (* 1938)

• 10 German quotes about football

  Offside – when the referee whistles offside. +++ Abseits ist, wenn der Schiedsrichter pfeift.

  Franz Beckenbauer (* 1945)

• 10 German football quotes

  The next game is always the most difficult. +++ Das nächste Spiel ist immer das schwerste.

  Sepp Herberger (* 1897 – † 1977)

• 10 German football quotes

  The center forward spends most of his life in the penalty area. +++ Ein Mittelstürmer verbringt die meiste Zeit seines Lebens im Strafraum.

  Uwe Seeler (* 1936)

• 10 German quotes about football

  If I walk on water, my critics will say that I can’t even swim.+++ Wenn ich über’s Wasser laufe, dann sagen meine Kritiker: Nicht mal schwimmen kann er.

  Berti Vogts (Berti Vogts, * 1946)

• 10 German quotes about football

  Two scoring chances, one goal – that’s what I call a 100% result. +++ Zwei Chancen, ein Tor – das nenne ich hundertprozentige Chancenauswertung.

  Roland Wohlfarth (* 1963)

• 10 German quotes about football

  They play tactically well, although they play without tactics.+++ Sie spielen taktisch gut, obwohl sie ohne Taktik spielen.

  Udo Lattek (* 1935 – † 2015)

• 10 German quotes about football

  Do you know who I sympathized with the most? Ball! +++ Wissen Sie, wer mir am meisten leid tat? Der Ball.

  Franz Beckenbauer (* 1945)

• 10 German football quotes

  The ball is round and the match lasts 90 minutes.+++ Der Ball ist rund und das Spiel dauert 90 Minuten.

  Sepp Herberger (* 1897 – † 1977)

• 10 German quotes about football

  Sex before the game? My guys can decide for themselves if they want to. But not during the half-time break. +++ Sex vor dem Spiel? Das können meine Jungs halten, wie sie wollen. Nur in der Halbzeit, da geht nichts.

  Berti Vogts (* 1946)

90,000 FIFA 2030 World Cup: Who Has What Chances Of Winning The Entry?

August 4, 2018

Photo author, Getty Images

Photo caption,

The 1966 World Cup final was held at Wembley Stadium – one of the best fields in the world, ready to host more than one tournament

Football Association of England confirmed that it is considering applying to host the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

But what are its chances, and who else claims to be the host country of the football tournament?

Although the championship is still 12 years away, a successful bid to host the World Cup requires many years of planning.

And the 2030 tournament will cost more because it will be special – the world will celebrate 100 years since the very first championship was held. In a hundred years, the world championships have not been held only twice – in 1942 and 1946, at the height and immediately after the end of the Second World War.

England has already made it clear that it intends to compete for the right to host the 2030 World Cup. Who will she have to compete with?

England

Photo author, Getty Images

Photo caption,

1966 is a victorious year for England in all respects

1966 and everything connected with it is the most important milestone in the history of English football.

That year England not only hosted the World Cup, but also won the tournament.

Since then, she has submitted two applications – for 2006 (then the lucky lot fell out in Germany) and for 2018 (the championship went to Russia).

Judging by the results of the vote, both times England was very far from being successful. But 2030 is another matter entirely.

One of the most important factors in favor of England is that it is one of the few countries that can independently host a tournament of this magnitude – 48 teams will participate in the 2030 Championship. For the first time in this format, the tournament will be held in 2026, but the venue has already been determined – the matches will be held in Canada, the USA and Mexico.

England is the temple of the most prestigious and best football fields in the world.Premier League teams play at the stadiums of London, Manchester, Liverpool and Newcastle. Slightly more modest in terms of the owners, but no less equipped stadiums in Leeds, Sheffield and Birmingham.

Undoubtedly, in this parameter, especially in comparison with some other potential applicants, England is beyond competition. In addition, having one host country, rather than several, greatly simplifies the logistics of the tournament; only some of the English stadiums need major renovation, and an important detail is the selfless love for football, which is in the blood of the British.

However, this would mean another European tournament. Between the World Cup in Russia and 2030, there will be only Qatar and Canada-USA-Mexico. Africa, for example, will again be overboard.

History buffs know that modern football certainly has its roots in England: the first Football Association, the first Football League, Wembley Stadium. At the same time, England did not take part in the World Cup until 1950, and even then did it without much enthusiasm, in every possible way demonstrating its unwillingness to recognize the leadership role of FIFA.

Uruguay / Argentina / Paraguay

Photo author, Getty Images

Photo caption,

Uruguay succeeded in 1930. It remains to repeat the success!

In terms of history, this would be a significant event.

Uruguay was the host and winner of the first ever World Cup back in 1930. Wouldn’t it be great if he played the tournament exactly 100 years later?

Argentina has given the world two of the world’s greatest footballers, Maradona and Messi, and they will take Paraguay under their wing, a country that could never have hosted the tournament on its own.

And the turn of South America by that time will come up again: the last World Cup on the continent was held in 2014 in Brazil.

The cons is that Argentina will need to build the most stadiums. There are not many FIFA-compliant pitches outside Buenos Aires, and the costs required to address this issue will be very difficult to justify in a country that continues to live in tough economic conditions.

Financial arguments often outweigh historical justice arguments.

For example, Greece was absolutely convinced that, as the parent country of the Olympic Games, it should hold the 1996 Anniversary Summer Games in Athens (in recent history, the Olympics resumed in 1886 – translator’s note).

But the economic situation in the country was unfavorable, and the Olympics went to Atlanta, USA.

M a Rocco / Tunisia / Algeria

Photo author, Getty Images

Photo caption,

Morocco intends to fight for the right to host the World Cup for the sixth time

It is impossible to imagine the fight for the World Cup Morocco.

This country has already tried to become the host of the main football tournament five times, the last time it even got to the first positions among the contenders.

But if she failed to convince the world of the ability to accept 24 or 32 teams, then with the new format of 48 national teams, the chances are even less. And here Tunisia and Algeria can come to the rescue.

Both countries were enthusiastic about their willingness to discuss the idea of ​​a joint North African proposal. Although it would be fair to give the championship to Morocco for their many years of persistence.

Africa has held the World Cup only once in history – in 2010 in South Africa, so it may well be the turn of the northern part of the continent.

True, the security situation in northern Africa is of serious concern. All three candidate countries have seen major terrorist attacks in recent years. Although, in fairness, England was also restless.

In addition, there is an acute question of the financial ability of Morocco, Tunisia and Algeria to organize such a major event.Well, the summer heat is also an important moment.

Also, how do you split the historic World Cup among the three countries that have qualified only a few times, let alone won?

And is it fair to give the jubilee championship to countries that not only have never won the World Cup, but have qualified only a few times?

Egypt

Photo author, Getty Images

Photo caption,

Liverpool star and Egypt striker Mo Salah has reintroduced his compatriots’ love of football

Egypt is very ambitious and wants to repeat what Brazil has done.The idea is to host the 2030 World Cup and the Olympic Games two years later.

But whether Egypt can pull this – that is the main question.

Egypt does not have the infrastructure to host events of this magnitude. Moreover, the most serious football tragedy of recent years took place there. In 2012, in the city of Port Said, after a match between the local club Al-Masri and Cairo’s Al-Ahli, football fans staged a brawl that resulted in 74 deaths.

In general, the advantages and disadvantages of their proposal are similar to the joint proposal of Morocco, Tunisia and Algeria.

South Korea / North Korea / Japan / China

Photo author, Getty Images

Photo caption,

At the Olympic Games in Pyeongchang, at the women’s ice hockey tournament, athletes from South and North Korea performed under the united flag

According to existing rules FIFA, there will be too little time after the 2022 World Cup in Qatar for the tournament to be given back to the Asian continent.But these rules may change, as South Korean President Moon Jae In hopes for.

During a meeting with FIFA President Gianni Infantino Moon said that the Asian World Cup could be historic thanks to the participation of North Korea.

The DPRK participated in the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, and this was seen as a sign of this isolated country being closer to the rest of the world. But being the host country of a soccer tournament would be an unprecedented breakthrough.

Infantino is said to have promised Moon to discuss the idea with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. Although it is difficult to imagine that Japan and China, having long-term dislike for each other, would agree to jointly organize the tournament.

One thing is for sure – China is trying very, very hard to develop its football. And of course he has the money to do it.

If China does not win this time, expect a strong bid for the 2034 World Cup.

South American teams have refused to play at the World Cup every two years

https: // rsport.ria.ru/20211027/futbol-1756590687.html

South American teams refused to play at the World Cup every two years

South American teams refused to play at the World Cup every two years – RIA Novosti Sports, 10/27/2021

South American teams refused to play at World Cup biennial

The countries of the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) will refuse to participate in the World Cup if the tournament is held every two years, … RIA Novosti Sport, 27.10.2021

2021-10- 27T22: 22

2021-10-27T22: 22

2021-10-27T22: 22

Football

FIFA World Cup

Conmebol

Aleksandr Chaferin

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MOSCOW, October 27 – RIA Novosti. The countries of the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) will withdraw from the World Cup if the tournament is held every two years, according to the organization’s website. and women’s teams every two years. Earlier, the head of the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) Alexander Čeferin and CONMEBOL opposed the proposal.Currently, the world championships are held every four years. The CONMEBOL council revisited the issue on Wednesday. “The project in question turns away from a nearly 100-year tradition of world football, ignoring the history of one of the most important sporting events on the planet. CONMEBOL supports the current World Cup with its timing and system selection because it has established itself as a successful model based on athletic prowess and rewarding effort, talent and commitment, “the statement said.

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FIFA World Cup, konmebol, alexander cheferin

South American teams refused to play at the World Cup every two years

MOSCOW, October 27 – RIA Novosti. Countries belonging to the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) will refuse to participate in the World Cup if the tournament is held every two years, according to the organization’s website.

In May, it was reported that the International Football Federation (FIFA) would explore the possibility of holding the World Championships for men’s and women’s teams every two years. Earlier, the head of the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) Alexander Čeferin and CONMEBOL opposed the proposal. Currently, the world championships are held every four years. On Wednesday, the CONMEBOL council revisited the issue.

“There is no reason, advantage or justification for the changes promoted by FIFA.In this regard, ten CONMEBOL member countries have ratified that they will not participate in the biennial FIFA World Cup, “the statement reads.

” The project in question turns away from nearly 100 -years tradition of world football, ignoring the history of one of the most important sporting events on the planet. CONMEBOL supports the current FIFA World Cup with its timing and selection system as it has established itself as a successful model based on athletic prowess and rewarding effort, talent and commitment, “the statement said.

Yesterday, 22: 05Football Barcelona lost to Rayo Vallecano in the Spanish Championship 90,000 when and where to watch the performances of the Averin sisters?

On October 27-31, Japan’s Kitakyushu will host the Rhythmic Gymnastics World Championships. The world championship in artistic gymnastics was held there last week.

2020 Olympic champions – both individual and group – the tournament is skipped. The Israel Gymnastics Federation announced that Linoy Ashram would not take part in the competition back in September.In Japan, the Israeli team will not be represented at all. The Bulgarian national team, which won the Olympic title two and a half months ago, was planning to compete at the World Championship. Unfortunately, already in the Land of the Rising Sun after training, one of the group members – Laura Traats – felt severe pain. Doctors diagnosed a serious injury, with which the athlete’s participation in the tournament was out of the question. Because the team is already in place and has gone through all the training of five of them, then the replacement of the gymnast is out of the question.A week ago, at the Grand Prix in Marbella, the Tokyo champions received very high marks, especially for the exercise with five balls, and I wanted to see how their rivalry with the representatives of the Russian Gymnastics Federation at the World Championships would develop. But not at this time.

In the first two days of the championship, qualifications and finals in individual events will take place. The gymnasts will also earn points for the team all-around and will be selected for the individual all-around. 8 exercises of gymnasts performing in individual competition and 2 exercises of those performing in a group will be counted in the team all-around competition.Based on the results of the three best exercises, 18 gymnasts will compete for the title of world champion in individual all-around. Those. athletes who will perform one or two types of exercises in qualification will not make it to the all-around final. 61 gymnasts apply for 18 places.

A maximum of three gymnasts per country and a minimum of one could be entered for the World Championships. Two or three athletes from a country will perform 8 exercises in total, and if there is one gymnast, she will perform in 4 exercises, but will not participate in team competitions.69 gymnasts will take part in the qualification.

The 13-time world champion and silver medalist of the 2020 Olympic Games Dina Averina , as well as the 4-time world champion, the reigning European champion, who became the fourth at the Games-2020 Arina Averina , are considered the favorites of the tournament and the main contenders for victory. In early October, the sisters took first and second places, respectively, in Moscow at the Olympico Cup – a tournament for the prizes of the 2000 Olympic champion Yulia Barsukova .It was she, by the way, who came with them to Japan instead of Vera Shatalina , with whom the Averins have been working for 10 years.

Among the contenders for the medals of the tournament, the representative of Belarus is the bronze medalist of the Games-2020 Alina Gornosko and Anastasia Salos (8th place in Tokyo). The gymnasts withdrew from international tournaments on the eve of the World Championships due to minor injuries. But they took part in the on-line championship of the country at the beginning of the month. Alina became the first in the all-around, Anastasia – the second.

Silver medalist of the European Championship-2021 in all-around Boryana Kalain from Bulgaria, who became the 5th at the Olympics, collected all the gold in the Challenge Cup in Romania just over a week ago.

Italian Milena Baldassari (6th in the Games) is also one of the attention-grabbing performances. Sofia Rafaeli , most likely, will make you talk about yourself in full force closer to Paris-2024. But even now she is not lost among her compatriots Baldassari and Alexandra Ajurjukulese , and against the background of her rivals.Together with the Russian woman Lala Kramarenko see them as the future of gymnastics.

Of course, Ukrainian women will also want to prove themselves Kristina Pogranichnaya and Viktoria Onoprienko , who closed the top ten in Tokyo.

In group competitions, the team of the Russian Gymnastics Federation consisting of Polina Orlova , Maria Tolgacheva , Anastasia Bliznyuk , Angelina Shkatova , Alisa Tishchenko is also the main contender for the victory.Italians will compete with them. The Italian national team in Tokyo won the bronze medal. The finalists of the Olympic tournament, the teams of Ukraine and Japan, will also compete for medals.

World Rhythmic Gymnastics Championships (October 27-31, Kitakyushu, Japan)

Schedule

Wednesday 27 October

Moscow time

03.15 – Opening ceremony

04.00 – qualification (hoop , ball) – group A (Belarus)

06.00 – qualification (hoop, ball) – group B (Russia)

08.30 – qualification (hoop, ball) – group C (Ukraine)

13.15 – final (hoop)

14.00 – final (ball)

28 October, Thursday

04.00 – qualification (clubs, ribbon) group B, group A, group D, group C

13.15 – final (clubs)

14.00 – final (ribbon)

October 29 (Friday)

10.50 – group all-around

October 30 (Saturday)

08.30 – individual all-around

October 31 (Sunday)

11.30 – final (5 balls)

12.20 – final (hoops, clubs)

13.40 – closing ceremony

Watch the Rhythmic Gymnastics World Championship on YouTube International Gymnastics Federation. Qualifying appearances will be available on tape, finals will be live.

Watch the finals live on Match TV and on the channel’s website.

Stay tuned for news and updates on the TV coverage of the tournament on Olympics.

Click and subscribe to the Olympics Telegram channel to be the first to know about your favorite athletes and major sporting events.

90,000 The Russian national beach soccer team named the replacement of the country’s emblem on the uniform for the World Cup – Sport

MOSCOW, July 7. / Corr. TASS Andrey Mikhailov /. The logo with the words “Our Boys” will be depicted on the uniform of the Russian national beach soccer team instead of the country’s coat of arms during the home World Cup. TASS was informed about this by the press service of the national team.

Due to the two-year sanctions of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), Russian athletes at the World Championships and the Olympic Games cannot play under the national flag, and the national anthem cannot be played in their honor. On Wednesday, the press service of the World Beach Soccer Championship in Moscow, TASS reported that the Russian national team at the upcoming tournament will play in uniform without the country’s coat of arms, and the national anthem for the team will replace the First Concerto for Piano and Orchestra by Pyotr Tchaikovsky.

“We are finalizing with FIFA [the International Football Federation] the final format of the form in which the Russian national team will play at the World Cup. It is clear that according to the decision of WADA and the CAS [Court of Arbitration for Sport], there will be no emblem on the uniform. It will be replaced by the logo” Our Boys “The rest of the uniform of the national team will be in the same color scheme as our national team played,” the press service of the team told TASS.

The Beach Soccer World Cup is held every two years.The current winner of the tournament is the Portuguese national team, the Russians took third place in 2019. In total, Russian athletes have two victories at the world championships (2011, 2013).

In 2021, the tournament will be held in Moscow from 19 to 29 August. The draw for the group stage of the tournament will take place on 8 July in Zurich. On July 6, the Football Association of Ukraine notified FIFA of its decision not to take part in the Beach Soccer World Cup. The Ukrainian team, which took second place in the European selection for the world championship and became one of the four teams from Europe, who received the right to play in the tournament, was replaced by the fifth team of Switzerland.

On 7 July, FIFA unveiled the baskets for the upcoming group stage draw. The first basket included the national teams of Russia, Brazil, Portugal and Tahiti, the second – the teams of Japan, Senegal, Switzerland and Spain, the third – Paraguay, El Salvador, the United Arab Emirates and Uruguay, the fourth – Oman, Belarus, the USA, Mozambique.

90,000 From which countries the RFU borrowed the new format of the Russian championship

The Russian Football Union (RFU) has developed a reform of club football in Russia, taking as a basis the system of holding tournaments, which is quite popular in Europe, and diluting it with a new idea in the form of dividing RPL clubs into groups.In the near future, the project will be sent to the clubs for consideration. Gazeta.Ru tells what other national championships are held according to a similar scheme and what the RFU relied on in its strategy.

Belgium

The new reform of the RFU is largely copied from some European championships.

The Belgian league stands out in this regard – it is she who is mentioned in the document from the RFU as a championship, which, after changing the format, in seven years increased the income from the sale of TV rights by 100%. In Belgium, the system is very similar to the one offered in Russia, only without dividing into groups.And the Belgian league, by the way, has been expanded since last season from 16 to 18 teams.

The Belgians play first a classic tournament in two rounds, and then hold three mini-playoffs at once.The first four at the end of the championship (points are divided by two, rounded up) determines the champion, the Champions League qualifier (second place) and the Europa League qualifier (third place).

Thus, the best eight teams in the country play 40 matches per season (not counting the National Cup), the RFU proposes to increase this number in Russia from 30 to 34.

Of the second four (in both cases, the teams play each with each in two rounds), only the winner gets into the Europa League.Plus, there are also playoffs for maintaining a place in the top league, which are played by the penultimate Jupier League team and the second team of the first division.

Austria

The draft reform from the RFU also mentions the Austrian league, which increased TV revenues by 40% in 1.5 years. There are 12 clubs participating in the Austrian Championship. During the season, the club plays two matches with each of the opponents. After that, the league is divided according to the results of the first rounds into two groups: the six best teams in the first and six other teams in the second.Inside the first one, the strongest clubs participating in the European Cup tournaments in the next season come to light, and inside the second – the weakest club, retiring to the second league.

Again – no division into groups. It’s just that the playoffs begin after the traditional regular season.

Poland and Serbia

In Poland, they also tried to play the third round: after the classic tournament between 16 teams, the clubs were divided into eights and played two mini-tournaments. But there was no growth in TV rights revenues with this format, and the league returned to the traditional scheme: a two-round tournament, 30 rounds.

And in Serbia they tried to implement a similar scheme with the third circle and division into eight, but also not very successfully. Revenues did not increase, and the country returned to the classic scheme – however, increasing the league to 20 teams. We spent the season in this format, but the new one seems to start again with 16 clubs.

Cyprus and Romania

There are 14 teams participating in the Cyprus Championship, and the formula proposed by the RFU has also been mastered there long ago. Only without dividing into groups. Cypriots first play a regular tournament in two rounds, then the first six clubs solve their problems, and the other eight start their own tournament.

In Romania, exactly the same scheme. One to one.

Denmark

Denmark, which is now well known, plays almost the same system, but only with some additions. After the two-round tournament, the teams are divided into three groups: the six best, group A (7-10 places) and group B (11-14 places). The top two teams in Groups A and B each play the playoffs. Its winner meets the bronze medalist in the top six for the Europa League. And the teams that took 3-4 places in groups A and B play in their playoffs to retain their place in the top division.

To make it absolutely clear: in the last season of the Danish Championship, the ninth club of the country, Odense, played with the third Aarhus for a ticket to the playoffs. In Denmark, they give a chance for success even to those who failed the first part of the championship.

As you can see, the three-round tournament has long become the norm in European football, and the RFU, albeit with a great delay, is moving in the same direction. Only I would like to understand that for the division of teams into four groups is .

90,000 World Cup 2026: USA, Canada and Mexico selected to host the World Cup.Cities, stadiums, tournament scheme, calendar – June 13, 2018

The joint application of the USA, Mexico and Canada won the right to host the 2026 World Cup from Morocco. At the FIFA congress in Moscow, the North Americans received 134 votes, the Moroccans – 65. Surprisingly, Morocco lost the fight for the World Cup to the USA for the second time. The first one was for the World Cup-94! Since then, the Moroccans have applied for the right to receive the World Cup 4 more times and have lost 4 times, taking second place three times.

This will be an innovative tournament for several reasons.

The world championship will be held in three countries for the first time

To hold European championships in two countries has long been in the order of things, but the world championship has so far been divided only once by two states – Japan and Korea in 2002. Since then, joint applications have invariably lost. So, Russia won the 2018 World Cup, beating Spain and Portugal. Three countries – a record for all football tournaments.

However, the organizers did think about logistics, therefore, starting from the quarter-final stage, all matches will be held only in the USA, including the final.Thus, the USA will host 60 games of the tournament, while Mexico and Canada – only 10. So they are more likely to be in the application for show and show multiculturalism.

World Championship with the widest geography

The World Championship in Russia at the moment is the tournament with the widest geography in history. 2.5 thousand kilometers from Kaliningrad to Yekaterinburg, many time zones, natural zones and cultures. In 2026, they decided to surpass us in all respects: from Edmonton to Mexico City 4 thousand km in a straight line, in the USA the tournament will stretch on both coasts, and the number of nations and cultures involved is also greater.In general, everything is as they love in FIFA.

The World Cup will be hosted by 16 cities for the first time

In Brazil, 64 tournament matches were divided into 12 cities, in Russia – 11 cities and 12 stadiums. From 2026, the World Cup will expand, so the number of games will increase. As a result, the tournament will be held in as many as 16 cities. Three of them represent Canada (Edmonton, Toronto and Montreal) and Mexico (Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey). From the USA, 17 cities appeared in the final application (New York / New Jersey, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington, Boston, Cincinnati, Nashville, Atlanta, Orlando, Miami, Houston, Dallas, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Denver, Kansas -City, Seattle), their number will be reduced to 10.

It is known that the opening match of the tournament is planned to be held at the famous Azteca stadium in Mexico City, which hosted the World Cup finals in 1970 and 1986. An alternative option is the arena in Los Angeles. On the first day of the tournament, three host teams will play, each in their homeland. Stadiums in Canada and Mexico will host 7 group stage matches, 2 1/16 finals and one 1/8 finals. The final is to take place at Metlife Stadium in New York.

48 national teams will participate in the World Championship for the first time

The 2026 World Cup will be the first World Championship with 48 national teams.This is the result of the reforms implemented by FIFA. 16 teams will be selected from Europe, 9 from Africa, 8 from Asia, 6 each from North and South America. Two more places were supposed to be played in the playoffs, but due to the choice of three host countries, this scheme will probably be abandoned.

In the final stage, the teams will be divided into 16 groups of 3 teams. Two of each group advance to the playoffs. For the first time, the playoff stage will include 5 rounds – from the 1/16 finals.

More about the World Championship at Sport24

Fan madness in Moscow.For the sake of these emotions, it was worth holding the World Cup

How much did you spend on the 2018 World Cup and what did you spend more money on? Alexey Sorokin answers

“The Germans will not miss their championship.