Denmark vs France
Tuesday 26th June 2018
FIFA World Cup 2018, Group C, Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow

Live on ITV 1 – Kick-Off: 15:00

Denmark vs France. The French need just a point against Denmark to seal top spot in Group C, whilst a draw would also confirm the Dane’s place in the last of the World Cup.

Despite two wins from two games, France are yet to turn up at the World Cup. Two narrow wins – 1-0 last time out against Peru – has ensured their spot in the knockout rounds, but their performances have been far from spectacular. Against Peru, Didier Deschamps opted for Olivier Giroud and Blaise Matuidi. The presence of Giroud, in particular, was noticeable as he offered a platform for Antoine Griezmann and Kylian Mbappe to weave their magic. It was the PSG striker who got the solitary goal, opening his account for the tournament.

Like Belgium, France have one of the most talented groups of individuals; probably the most, considering their strength in depth. However, they’re still yet to dominate a match or take it by the scruff of the neck. With the obvious talent on show, you have to feel it is only a matter of time before they blow a team away. France have a lot of young players, in between the age of 19-25. Those players still need to mature and acclimatise to tournament football, before we see the very best of them.

Denmark moved onto four points following their 1-1 draw with Australia. They once again conceded a goal, courtesy of VAR. Cristian Eriksen was again a key performer in their impressive first-45 minute showing. The Tottenham man opened the scoring with an expertly timed half-volley. They will be without their explosive attacker Yussuf Poulsen for this game, however, after the RB Leipzig forward picked up his second yellow card of the tournament against Australia. Whilst Denmark may not have the star names of other major nations, they do have a strong spine to their side. Kasper Schmeichel conceded his first goal in 571 minutes of international football against Australia, illustrating their defensive prowess. They need just a point in this game to seal second spot in Group C and will take top-spot with a win.

Sandro Ricci is the referee for this match. The Brazilian has averaged 4.77 yellow and 0.42 red cars in 77 international matches. With that in mind, I would recommend a maximum of 40+ match booking points.

France’s performances will improve and that might happen in this game. With qualification already secured, the shackles will be off or at least slightly loosened. Denmark, have all the tools to frustrate them and need just a point. As a result, I could see this one ending as a draw.

Denmark vs France will be televised live in the UK on ITV 1 with kick-off at 15:00 GMT.

Prediction: Denmark 1-1 France

Suggested Tips –  Denmark vs France – (BET365):

  • Draw – 1-1 – (link no longer available).

Suggested Tips – Denmark vs France – (SKYBET):

  • Mbappe to score first – 5/1.
  • Both Players to Score – Griezmann and Eriksen both to score – 11/1.
  • France to win by exactly one goal – 5/2. 

Tips updated at 13:20 GMT on 25th June 2018. Markets will likely be updated again prior to the game kicking off so keep checking back.

Don’t forget – we will be previewing as many if not all the FIFA 2018 World Cup Group Stage games. Keep visiting Tips and Previews ahead of games to get our suggested tips and correct score picks for the games.

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Spain vs Morocco
Monday 25th June 2018
FIFA World Cup 2018, Group B, Kaliningrad Stadium, Kaliningrad

Live on BBC 1– Kick-Off: 19:00

Spain vs Morocco. Spain need just a point to progress through to the last 16 of the World Cup, when they face already-eliminated Morocco.

Spain’s fortunate 1-0 win over Iran moved them joint-top of Group B with Portugal. Despite winning and dominating the match, Iran had chances to snatch an equaliser, which would have left Spain in trouble. They performed well and kept the ball magnificently, especially in the first-half, however, you can’t help but feel teams will be able to score goals against them. Isco again put in a man-of-the-match display after impressing again Portugal. Costa, meanwhile, grabbed his third goal of the tournament, albeit in fortunate fashion. Spain seem to have found a way to get the best out of him; he at 5/1(Skybet) for the golden boot, which represents good value.

If the Spain and Portugal both win by the same scoreline in their final group game and have an equal Fair Play Conduct, the winner of the group will be dictated by drawing names out of a hat – for the first time in World Cup history. However, Spain’s job is far from done as they could still exit the competition with a defeat.

Morocco may go down as one the best sides in World Cup history to finish with 0 points. They created a bundle of chances against Portugal and deserved at least a point. However, as was the case against Iran, they failed to take those chances and lost the game. They have some talented players, particularly in midfield, but lack a true number nine. That has been their downfall this summer and why they’re yet to score. Against Spain, they will hope to restore some pride and maybe get on the scoresheet. This will undoubtedly the toughest test they have faced yet, but Spain offers a good opportunity for them to claim a major scalp.

Ravshan Irmatov is the referee for this game. He has averaged 3.45 yellow and 0.23 red cards in 165 international matches. Therefore, I would advise a maximum of 40+ match booking points.

Spain have to win this game to ensure they top the group. Anything less and they could end up in second, behind Portugal. When Spain have to win, they usually do. I fancy them to get a result again Morocco, who for all their nice build-up play, lack any real bite in front of goal.

Spain vs Morocco will be televised live in the UK on BBC 1 with kick-off at 19:00 GMT.

Prediction: Spain 2-0 Morocco

Suggested Tips –  Spain vs Morocco – (BET365):

  • Spain to Win – 2-0 – (link no longer available).

Suggested Tips – Spain vs Morocco – (SKYBET):

  • Costa to Score First – 11/4.
  • Ramos to score a header – 9/1. 
  • RequestABet Up To 10/1 – Diego Costa to score, Spain to win to nil and 8+ match corners – 7/2. (NAP).

Tips updated at 12:30 GMT on 25th June 2018.

Don’t forget – we will be previewing as many if not all the FIFA 2018 World Cup Group Stage games. Keep visiting Tips and Previews ahead of games to get our suggested tips and correct score picks for the games.

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Iran vs Portugal
Monday 25th June 2018
FIFA World Cup 2018, Group B, Mordovia Arena, Saransk

Live on BBC 4 – Kick-Off: 19:00

Iran vs Portgual is the last of two games in Group B. Portugal and Iran face off in Group B with both sides needing points to qualify for the round of 16.

Portugal need just a point to seal their place in the round of 16 after their 1-0 win against Morocco. Cristiano Ronaldo’s fourth goal of the tournament – in the fourth minute- was enough to seal the win. Despite winning the game, Portugal rode their luck for most of the game. Morocco were the better side but just couldn’t wield away through the Portugal rearguard. It was a very professional performance from Fernando Santos’ side although they will have to show a lot more quality in the knockout rounds. In midfield they struggled to keep possession, limiting the service for Ronaldo. Whilst he has already got four goals, they will need to provide more help for their main man if they’re to hope of replicating their success of 2016.

Iran put in one of the performances of the tournament, despite losing 1-0 to Spain last time out. Iran put in a resolute defensive display and were only beaten by Diego Costa’s fortunate strike, that cannoned in off his left knee. Still, a goal down Iran battled on and had a few chances to equalise, as well as a goal correctly ruled out for offside. Despite Spain controlled the game and dominated possession, few would have begrudged Iran a point for their plucky and resolute defending.

That defeat has left them third in the group, a point behind both Spain and Portugal. However, their future is in their own hands, if they beat Portugal they will be through and could even top the group, depending on Spain’s result against Morocco. It is a game that both teams have plenty to play for; they could both end the night top of Group B or out of the competition altogether.

Enrique Caceres is the referee for this game. The Paraguayan official has averaged 4.3 yellow and 0.23 red cards in 91 international matches. With that in mind, I would recommend a maximum of 40+ match booking points.

Iran will have to put in a similar defensive display as they did against Spain. However, Portugal have proved they are nowhere near the quality of Spain, in terms of possession and quality in midfield. I could genuinely see Iran getting a draw from this game. If not, it will be a very narrow win for Portugal.

Iran vs Portugal will be televised live in the UK on BBC 4 with kick-off at 15:00 GMT.

Prediction: Iran 1-2 Portugal

Suggested Tips –  Iran vs Portugal – (BET365):

  • Portugal to Win – 2-1 – (link no longer available).

Suggested Tips – Iran vs Portugal – (SKYBET):

  • BTTS and Portugal Win – 11/2.
  • Portugal to win by exactly one goal – 9/4. 
  • RequestABet UpTo 10/1 – Portugal to score 2+ goals and 5+ Portugal corners – 5/4. (NAP).

Tips updated at 12:30 GMT on 25th June 2018.

Don’t forget – we will be previewing as many if not all the FIFA 2018 World Cup Group Stage games. Keep visiting Tips and Previews ahead of games to get our suggested tips and correct score picks for the games.

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Saudi Arabia vs Egypt
Monday 25th June 2018
FIFA World Cup 2018, Group A, Volgograd Arena, Volgograd

Live on ITV 4 – Kick-Off: 15:00

Saudi Arabia vs Egypt – the two bottom sides in Group A face off with each other looking to restore some pride with both sides already out of the World Cup.

With two defeats from two, Egypt will exit the competition after this match. Despite Mohamad Salah’s inclusion, they were comfortably beaten 3-1 by Russia. The Liverpool playmaker didn’t look 100% fit after his injury in the Champions League final but still grabbed a consolation goal for his side from the penalty spot. It’s been an underwhelming campaign for Egypt, who haven’t shown enough quality to warrant a place in the knockout rounds. Salah’s injury – as well as conceding a 90th-minute goal against Uruguay – has compounded that. They will be left wondering what could have been. Still, this match offers Salah and co the chance to give their supporters something to cheer about. They’ve only conceded goals in the second-half, which may be worth a bet for this game. Equally, Saudi Arabia’s lack of attacking threat could offer them a chance to register a clean sheet.

After getting off to the worst start against Russia, Saudi Arabia lost 1-0 to Uruguay in their second match. That result ended their stay in Russia, but they will still be hoping for their first goal and point against Egypt. Despite losing both games, Saudi Arabia have illustrated that they can play some nice football. The difference in both games has been in both boxes, rather than an inability to pass the ball. Against Uruguay, they had the lion share of possession, especially in the first-half. However, in defence, crucial lapses in concentration and upfront they’ve lacked a goal threat, which has ultimately cost them their place at the World Cup. They have conceded six goals in their first two games and with Salah to come, that number could soon increase.

Wilmer Roldan is the referee for this match. The Colombian has officiated 126 international matches, where has averaged 5.3 yellow and 0.6 red cards. With that in mind, I would advise a maximum of 40+ booking points.

Both these sides will want to sign off with a win. Egypt have a lot more quality in both boxes, which could prove decisive. It would be nice to see Saudi Arabia prevail as they try to play football the right way. Sadly, I don’t think that will happen and I expect Egypt to win.

Saudi Arabia vs Egypt will be televised live in the UK on ITV 4 with kick-off at 15:00 GMT.

Prediction: Saudi Arabia 0-2 Egypt

Suggested Tips –  Saudi Arabia vs Egypt – (BET365):

  • Egypt to Win – 2-0 – (link no longer available).
  • Under 2.5 Goals and BTTS – No – (link no longer available). (NAP).  

Suggested Tips – Saudi Arabia vs Egypt – (SKYBET):

  • Salah to score first – 11/2.
  • Salah to score a brace – 9/4. 

Tips updated at 12:30 GMT on 25th June 2018.

Don’t forget – we will be previewing as many if not all the FIFA 2018 World Cup Group Stage games. Keep visiting Tips and Previews ahead of games to get our suggested tips and correct score picks for the games.

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Uruguay vs Russia
Monday 25th June 2018
FIFA World Cup 2018, Group A, Samara Arena, Samara

Live on ITV 1 – Kick-Off: 15:00

Uruguay vs Russia – with both sides safely into the round of 16, Uruguay face Russia in a battle for top spot in Group A.

Russia sealed their place in the knockout rounds with an emphatic 3-1 win over Egypt. The hosts sprung into life after a lifeless first half, with three goals in 17 minutes. Denis Cheryshev took his tally to four for the tournament, before 6ft 4inch striker Artem Dzyuba sealed three minutes later with his second in two games. With the whole nation behind them, Russia are a team few will fancy in the next round. Alexandar Golovin has been the star of their tournament so far. The 22-year-old playmaker showcased his talents with a stunning free-kick against Arsenal in the Europa League and his displays at this tournament will have only increased interest from potential suitors. With eight goals in two games, Russia have eased any fears that they lack goals in the side. With that in mind, I’d expect this to be an open, attacking game.

Uruguay grabbed their second win in as many games with a 1-0 win over Saudi Arabia. After a poor performance against Egypt, Luis Suarez opened his account for the tournament. The Barcelona man looked back to his usual best as he led his country to victory. In the first two games, Uruguay have proved they are not fantastic entertainers. They resemble Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid side, with Diego Godin an integral part of their rock-solid defence. They rely on Suarez and Edison Cavani to get them over the line; few sides can boast a more talented attacking duo. They may not be the prettiest on the eye, but they are an efficient, well-oiled machine.

Malang Diedhiou is the referee for this game. The Senegalese official has averaged 2.08 yellow and 0.15 red cards across 53 international games. Therefore, I would advise a maximum booking points total of 30.

Before this tournament, the gap appeared to be a lot greater between these two sides. It’s fair to say Russia have impressed the most of the two sides, but they do lack the world-class players that Uruguay have. As a result, I think Uruguay will win this one, albeit by the tightest of margins.

Uruguay vs Russia will be televised live in the UK on ITV 1 with kick-off at 15:00 GMT.

Prediction: Uruguay 1 – 0 Russia

Suggested Tips –  Uruguay vs Russia – (BET365):

  • Uruguay to Win – 1-0 – (link no longer available).

Suggested Tips – Uruguay vs Russia – (SKYBET):

  • Both Players to Score -Suarez and Dyzuba to both score – 11/2.
  • Dyzuba, Cavani & Suarez 1+ shot on target each – 9/4. (NAP). 
  • Uruguay to win by exactly one goal – 3/1. 

Tips updated at 12:30 GMT on 25th June 2018.

Don’t forget – we will be previewing as many if not all the FIFA 2018 World Cup Group Stage games. Keep visiting Tips and Previews ahead of games to get our suggested tips and correct score picks for the games.

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Poland vs Colombia
Sunday 24th June 2018
FIFA World Cup 2018, Group H, Kazan Arena, Kazan

Live on ITV 1 – Kick-Off: 19:00

Poland vs Colombia –  both sides are in need of a result after opening-day defeats.

Poland were upset by Senegal as they opened their World Cup campaign. It was a deserved 2-1 win for Africa’s finest, who showcased their credentials on the biggest stage. Poland contributed to their own downfall, conceded an own goal before gifting Mbaye Naing the second. They struggled to get their talisman Robert Lewandowski in the game. The Bayern Munich striker was given little service despite the talent behind him in midfield. In truth, they looked most dangerous from set pieces, which brought them their goal. Overall, though, they will have to put in a much better display or risk facing an early exit.

Colombia will be without Carlos Sanchez for this match after the midfielder picked up the second quickest red card in World Cup history. The former Aston Villa man handled Shinji Kagawa’s goal-bound shot and was sent off after just two minutes and 56 seconds. With just ten men Colombia battled hard but found themselves on the wrong end of a 2-1 scoreline. Cult hero James Rodriguez was only fit enough to come off the bench and played just over half an hour; it’s crucial Colombia get their main man fit for this match. With 11 men, I think Colombia can definitely cause Poland problems, especially if James is in the side. They scored 20 goals in qualifying and proved, even with ten men, they’re a dangerous side.

Cesar Arturo Ramos is the referee for this  game. In 30 international matches he has averaged 2.75 yellow cards and 0.1 reds, awarding 0.13 penalties per game along the way. Therefore, I would recommend a maximum of 30+ booking points for any bets.

This is almost a must-win game for both sides. A point does neither side any favours, with both Japan and Senegal on three points. Having watched both sides, I was more impressed with Colombia and providing Rodriguez is fit, they could snatch a crucial win in this game. There’s no doubt it will be tight, though, and could easily end in a draw.

Prediction: Poland 1-2 Colombia

Suggested Tips –  Poland vs Colombia – (BET365):

  • Colombia to Win – 2-1 – (link no longer available).

Suggested Tips –  Poland vs Colombia – (SKYBET):

  • Both Players to Score – Lewandowski and Rodriguez to both score – 11/2.
  • Falcao to score first – 7/2. 
  • Colombia to win by exactly one goal – 11/4. 

Tips updated at 12:30 GMT on 24th June 2018.

Don’t forget – we will be previewing as many if not all the FIFA 2018 World Cup Group Stage games. Keep visiting Tips and Previews ahead of games to get our suggested tips and correct score picks for the games.

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Japan vs Senegal
Sunday 24th June 2018
FIFA World Cup 2018, Group H, Ekaterinburg Arena, Ekaterinburg

Live on BBC 1 – Kick-Off: 16:00

Japan vs Senegal – Japan and Senegal face off in Group H, with both sides tied on three points after opening day victories.

Japan became the first ever Asian side to beat a South American team at the World Cup after they beat Colombia 2-1. They were largely helped by Carlos Sanchez’s red card after three minutes. Still, with the score at 1-1, they found an extra gear and grabbed themselves a decisive goal. They owed much of their good play to striker Yuya Osako, deputising for the injured Leicester City forward Shinji Okazaki. The forward grabbed a goal and an assist whilst also producing a goal-saving block with the score at 2-1. Japan were tipped to finish bottom of Group H but have already upset the apple cart.

Senegal were also underdogs when they faced Poland but came out worthy winners. Their 2-1 lead has given them a crucial advantage after just one matchday. If they can avoid defeat in this match their future will be in their own hands, which they would have taken before the tournament started. Whilst Senegal provide a great deal of pace and athleticism within their side, they also have a great deal of technical ability. Young winger Ismalia Sarr, in particular, impressed down the right-hand-side. The Rennes midfielder scored seven goals this season in his debut season, at the age of just 20. Sadio Mane is their main man in front of goal, operating in a more central role for his country, behind former Watford striker Mbaye Niang.

Gianluca Rocchi is the referee for this match. The Italian pleas his trade in Serie A, where he has averaged 5.25 cards across 16 matches this season. Therefore, I would opt for a maximum of 40+ booking points.

With both these sides enjoying fantastic results, it will be interesting to see if they can emulate those performances. Both sides deserved their wins, although I’m unsure if Japan would have prevailed against a full-strength Colombia side. I think Senegal will have too much for them and will win the game; a result would all but secure their spot in the last 16 of the World Cup.

Prediction: Japan 0-2 Senegal

Suggested Tips –  Japan vs Senegal – (BET365):

  • Senegal to Win – 2-0 – (link no longer available).

Suggested Tips –  Japan vs Senegal – (SKYBET):

  • Mane to score & win – 11/4.
  • Correct score group betting – Senegal to win 1-0, 2-0 or 2-1 – 7/4. 
  • RequestABets up to 10/1 – Biram Diouf & Mane 1+ shots on target each – 6/4. (NAP).

Tips updated at 12:30 GMT on 24th June 2018.

Don’t forget – we will be previewing as many if not all the FIFA 2018 World Cup Group Stage games. Keep visiting Tips and Previews ahead of games to get our suggested tips and correct score picks for the games.

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England vs Panama
Sunday 24th June 2018
FIFA World Cup 2018, Group G, Nizhny Novgorod Stadium, Nizhny Novgorod

Live on BBC 1 – Kick-Off: 13:00

England vs Panama. England can seal their place in the round of 16 with a victory when they face Panama In their second Group G match.

England sealed victory in the most dramatic style against Tunisia, with Harry Kane’s 90th-minute header securing the win. In truth it was a goal Gareth Southgate’s team deserved, having dominated the game. They were denied two blatant penalties, with Kane twice being hauled to the ground, but the referee and VAR remained unmoved. After a fantastic opening 30 minutes, where England created numerous clear-cut chances, they conceded a sloppy penalty. This underlined England’s inability to remain concentrated despite being in complete control of the game.

Dele Alli was forced off with a thigh strain, although the severity of the injury is unknown. Ruben Loftus-Cheek will be on standby to deputise after impressing with a late cameo role. Marcus Rashford could also be in line to replace Raheem Sterling, who struggled to influence the game from a more central position. Overall, it was an encouraging display from England, especially in the first-half. However, as always, they are susceptible defensively and will give teams chance.

Panama struggled in their first ever World Cup game against Belgium. Despite holding the Red Devils for 45 minutes, they lost 3-0. In truth, Panama look out of their depth but were resolute enough to frustrate Belgium for large periods of the game. Having watched both games, I would expect Tunisia to beat Panama, which would leave them at the bottom of Group G.

Ahead Grisha is the referee for this game. The Egyptian will take charge of his first ever World Cup game when the Three Lions meet Panama. In 69 international matches, Grisha has averaged 3.33 yellow cards per game and 0.12 reds. With that in mind, I’d advise a maximum booking points total of 40+.

England never do things the easy way, as demonstrated against Tunisia. However, if they can start in the same vein and pick up an early goal, they should win this game comfortably. After grabbing a brace in the first match, Kane will be licking his lips at the prospect of coming against this Panama defence.

England vs Panama will be televised live in the UK on BBC 1 with kick-off at 13:00 GMT.

Prediction: England 3-0 Panama

Suggested Tips –  England vs Panama – (BET365):

  • England to Win – 3-0 – (link no longer available).

Suggested Tips – England vs Panama – (SKYBET):

  • Kane to score a brace – 7/2.
  • Price Boost – Marcus Rashford to score outside the area – 22/1. 
  • @FootyAccums RequestABet – Kane & Lingard to score and Roman Torres & Gomez to be carded – 50/1. 
  • RequestABet up to 10/1 – England to win to nil, England to score 2+ goals and 5+ match corners – 6/5. (NAP).
  • Both Players to score – Kane and Rashford – 11/4.
  • RequestABet up to 10/1 – Kane to score, England to score 2+ goals, 6+ England corners and 20+ Panama booking pts – 9/4.
  • RequestABet up to 10/1 –  Kane to score and England win 3-0 – 13/2.

Tips updated at 11:30 GMT on 24th June 2018 – we should be updating the preview before kick off again so keep checking back.

Don’t forget – we will be previewing as many if not all the FIFA 2018 World Cup Group Stage games. Keep visiting Tips and Previews ahead of games to get our suggested tips and correct score picks for the games.

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Germany vs Sweden
Saturday 23rd June 2018
FIFA World Cup 2018, Group F, Fisht Stadium, Sochi

Live on ITV 1 – Kick-Off: 19:00

Germany vs Sweden – the Germans will be hoping to bounce back from their shock defeat to Mexico when they take on Sweden in Group F.

The world champions got off to the worst possible start, losing 1-0 to the Mexicans. Hirving Lozano was enough to separate the teams, although, in truth, the scoreline could have been bigger. Despite dominating the ball, Germany left themselves open to the counter-attack. Lozano, Javier Hernandez and Carlos Vela, in particular, were a constant menace with their pace and movement. Germany were restricted to just half-chance, which they couldn’t take advantage of. Substitute Mario Gomez was the guilty party as he missed their best chance in the second-half. This result was a real shock; Germany had looked strong in their recent warm-up friendlies. With the calibre of players they have, I would expect their defeat to spur them on, as they bid to make amends.

Sweden kicked off their World Cup campaign with a 1-0 win against South Korea. Defender Andreas Granqvist’s penalty was enough to seal the win, despite the best efforts of Korea ‘keeper Hyeonwoo Jo. In truth, it could have been a much larger scoreline but, without Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Sweden were wasteful in front of goal. However, despite the absence of Manchester United defender Victor Lindelof, who missed the game through illness, Sweden looked solid. They will have to maintain that level of defensive stability if they’re to keep out Germany, who have to win this game. Sweden know a point would put them in a prime position to qualify, although they would still stand a good chance if they lost.

Germany have a team full of winners. They will be desperate to re-write their wrongs and I’d expect to see a different animal entirely in this game. Sweden’s lack a clinical finisher and I struggle to see them being able to counter-attack Germany as Mexico did.

Prediction: Germany 2-0 Mexico

Suggested Tips –  Germany vs Sweden – (BET365):

  • Germany to Win – 2-0 –(link no longer available).

Suggested Tips –  Germany vs Sweden – (SKYBET):

  • Muller to score & win – 12/1.
  • Correct score group betting – Germany to win 1-0, 2-0 or 2-1 – 7/2. 
  • Germany win to nil – 50/1. 

Tips updated at 17:30 GMT on 22nd June 2018 – we should be updating the preview before kick off again so keep checking back.

Don’t forget – we will be previewing as many if not all the FIFA 2018 World Cup Group Stage games. Keep visiting Tips and Previews ahead of games to get our suggested tips and correct score picks for the games.

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Korea Republic vs Mexico
Saturday 23rd June 2018
FIFA World Cup 2018, Group F, Rostov Arena, Rostov-On-Don

Live on ITV 1 – Kick-Off: 16:00

Korea Republic vs Mexico – after their surprise victory over Germany, Mexico will be hoping to kick on their campaign with another win against Korea Republic on Saturday.

That opening-day win against the world champions has put Mexico in charge of Group F. They top the group alongside Sweden who also have three points. Although Mexico defended very well, it was their counter-attacking play that really caught the eye. Hirving Lozano, in particular, impressed, as he grabbed the only goal of the game. Javier Hernandez also lead the line impressively, rolling back the years with his movement against two of the world’s best central defenders. The most impressive thing about their performance was that it was far from a ‘backs against the wall’ showing. In midfield, they matched Germany, with Hector Herrera running the show against Messrs Toni Kroos and Sami Khedira. I’d be lying if I said I fancied them before this game, however, they showed real signs of being potential dark horses.

Korea found themselves on the wrong end of a 1-0 scoreline as they kicked off their World Cup campaign against Sweden. Andreas Granqvist’s second-half penalty separated the two teams, although it could have been a bigger scoreline. Korea lacked any true quality through the pitch, with the exception of their goalkeeper. Premier League regulars Heung-Min Son and Ki Seung-Yeung were unable to influence the game. Having watched all four teams in Group F, they are by far the weakest. They lack any real threat in attack, with Son often tasked with leading the charge on his own.

Given their contrasting performances in the opening round of games, there’s really only one winner here. The real test for Mexico is to see if they can translate their impressive performance against weaker opposition.

Prediction: Korea Republic 0 – 2 Mexico

Suggested Tips –  Korea Republic vs Mexico – (BET365):

  • Correct score, Mexico to win 2-0 – (link no longer available).

Suggested Tips –  Korea Republic vs Mexico – (SKYBET):

  • Hernandez to score and win – 2/1.
  • Mexico to win by exactly two goals – 7/2.
  • Vela and Lozano to score – 7/1. 

Tips updated at 17:20 GMT on 22nd June 2018 – we should be updating the preview before kick off again so keep checking back.

Don’t forget – we will be previewing as many if not all the FIFA 2018 World Cup Group Stage games. Keep visiting Tips and Previews ahead of games to get our suggested tips and correct score picks for the games.

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