Group B - Armenia, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Denmark, Italy, and Malta
Group B provides slightly more intrigue, mainly because only Italy has separated themselves from the rest. The only foregone conclusion at this stage is that Malta will not reach the FIFA World Cup Finals. Historically, they have never won a single FIFA World Cup Qualification match. In fact, they have only won ten total matches since 2000! This includes a defeat of the mighty
Balearic Islands (Yes, it
actually exists)
Team Played W D L GF GA GD Pts Italy 5 4 1 0 12 4 8 13 Bulgaria 6 2 4 0 11 4 7 10 Czech Republic 5 2 2 1 6 4 2 8 Denmark 5 1 3 1 6 5 1 6 Armenia 4 1 0 3 2 7 -5 3 Malta 5 0 0 5 1 14 -13 0 Armenia is the underdog who has the odds stacked against them. If they defeat Malta, they'll be tied with Denmark! Unfortunately, they have five matches against opponents who have a realistic shot of making waves in the Finals. Let's focus on the fight for 2nd place. Bulgaria has played one extra game, but have the point lead. The Czech Republic have the potential for the most points, but have two remaining matches against Italy. Denmark has yet to play Malta or Armenia, but have the most ground to make up. Assuming current trends continue, each team should win their remaining matches against Armenia and Malta. Italy's only blemish was a draw at Bulgaria and have otherwise dominated opponents in their two home games (Malta and Denmark). It's safe to assume that Italy will win their remaining home fixtures. In fact, there have only been two non-wins on Italian soil since 2006 (not counting friendlies): 2010 WC Qualifying vs.
Ireland and 2008 Euro Qualifying vs.
France. That leaves us with the following: Team Pts Remaining Bulgaria 16 vs. Czech Republic Czech Republic 14 vs. Italy, @Bulgaria Denmark 18 vs. Italy With these results, it's a toss-up between Bulgaria and Denmark. Because Bulgaria is at home against the Czechs, they should have the inside track. Though it is razor-thin. The October 15th date in Sofia will likely decide the runner-up.