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England midfielder Mason Mount has warned his teammates to be prepared for the ‘dark arts of the game’ that the likes of Brazil and Argentina could undertake at the 2022 World Cup.
As reported by the Express, Mount believes England don’t experience such tactics very often, so they need to be ready should they face either nation in the latter stages of the tournament.
England must be ready for ‘dark arts’ at World Cup
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England are among the favourites to lift the trophy this winter. The Three Lions will meet Iran, the USA and Wales in Qatar in Group B. Should they qualify, they will more than likely meet a South American nation in the latter stages.
“For us playing the friendly games and the Euros and the other games we play we don’t get to experience the likes of Brazil and Argentina and Colombia – the teams that do stuff off the ball, the dark arts of the game, especially in big games like this, and if we do get to play them you have to be ready for that,” said Mount.
“England played Colombia in 2018 and I watched it, it was a tough game and these are the games you want to play in, we’re ready and we’re enjoying every moment so far but we have three tough group games to start.
“It’s one of those things in the game you have to deal with and be savvy about and know it’s coming, and like I said we don’t experience it often so you have to be aware of that, but first and foremost we worry about ourselves and how we perform and what we want to do as a team.”
Mase. 😀 pic.twitter.com/q07ZJYT6Ps
— England (@England) November 17, 2022
Brazil and Argentina eyeing World Cup glory
Colombia missed out on a spot in the 2022 World Cup, but both Brazil and Argentina are looking very strong going into the tournament.
The Brazilians are seeking a record-extending sixth title, with Argentina previously winning the prestigious competition twice.
Brazil topped South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) World Cup qualifying with 14 wins from their 17 matches. They drew the other three.
But rivals Argentina also went through the campaign unbeaten. They won 11 of their games, drawing the other six.
Global icons Neymar and Lionel Messi were in fine form in the qualifiers. They hit tallies of eight and seven respectively.
Mount competing for England starting role
Mount will be eyeing a starting role in England’s first match against Iran, but the Chelsea star is well aware of the competition for places.
“There’s massive competition and we know the technical ability we have going forward, and being able to combine going forward as a unit is so important,” said Mount.
“There’s competition but that sets the level high in training and in games so you’re always at the best level you can be, and if that’s as a sub or starting the game you want to give it everything as you know there are players on the bench that want to come on and make an impact.”
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