All articles by: Elliott Jackson

Uruguay vs Russia – Match Preview

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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.

FIFA World Cup 2018 – Promotional Offer by BET365

 

Poland vs Colombia – Match Preview

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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.

FIFA World Cup 2018 – Promotional Offer by BET365

Japan vs Senegal – Match Preview

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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.

FIFA World Cup 2018 – Promotional Offer by BET365