Nigeria vs Argentina - Match Betting Preview. Tuesday 26th June 2018, FIFA World Cup 2018, Group D, Saint Petersburg Stadium St. Petersburg. Live on BBC 1 – Kick-Off: 19:00 GMT.

Nigeria vs Argentina
Tuesday 26th June 2018
FIFA World Cup 2018, Group DSaint Petersburg Stadium, St. Petersburg

Live on BBC 1 – Kick-Off: 19:00

Nigeria vs Argentina – ‘The Super Eagles’ were on top form as they dispatched Iceland in a 2-0 victory and rode their luck with Gylfi Sigurdsson missing a penalty late on to scare the Nigerians. Ahmed Musa was a joy to watch, as he bagged a brace as the African’s rejoiced. Musa to score anytime is priced at 3/1; a good bet to back as he looked a huge threat with his pace.

Argentina have been a sorry sight thus far, with their tournament hanging in the balance. Defensively unorganised, slow to build attacks and far too reliant on Lionel Messi, the South American side were humiliated by Croatia as Luka Modric ran the show to confirm their place on the last 16.

The Nigerians are currently on three points, with a victory this Tuesday seeing them through to the knockout stages. They are priced at 11/2 to defeat the Argentinians. They struggled to show their vibrant brand of football in their first outing however in their win over Iceland they were much more fluid. John Obi Mikel played a deeper lying role which allowed Oghenekaro Etebo to flourish in the middle of the park. Arsenal’s Alex Iwobi was benched however could start their third match.

Argentina, priced at 8/15, are still yet to show their talents and illustrate their delightful attacking arsenal. Sergio Aguero has struggled for service whilst Lionel Messi and Angel Di Maria have been ineffective in their creative roles. Messi is priced at 4/6 to score anytime, an outcome that is likely as he understands this is his last chance to have a chance to lift the World Cup.

The match is likely to see one of them eliminated and the other go through, however the result of their groups other match will play a part. Croatia will play Iceland at the same time, with the Croatians already qualified.
The referee for this fixture is Turkish official Cuneyt Çakir. The Turk is a strict official who is no stranger to his pocket. Expect cards.

Prediction: Nigeria 1 – 3 Argentina 

Suggested Tips –  Iceland vs Croatia – (BET365):

  • Argentina win – 3-1 – (link no longer available).

Suggested Tips – Iceland vs Croatia – (SKYBET):

  • Price Boost – Lionel Messi to score a hat trick  – 18/1.
    – Of course this man will be the focal point for Argentina, and often supplies when called upon when it really matters.
  • Both Players to score – Ahmed Musa and Lionel Messi to score . – 11/2.
  • RequestABet Up to 10/1 – Messi to score, Argentina to win, over 2.5 goals – 6/4. (NAP). 
  • Di Maria 2+ shots on target and Moses 1+ shots on target – 9/2.
  • Messi to score, Argentina to score 2+ goals, 3+ Nigeria corners, 4+ Argentina corners and 10+ booking points each team – 9/4.

Tips updated at 17:40 GMT on 26th June 2018. Markets unlikely be updated again prior to the game kicking off.

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

 

Iceland vs Croatia - Match Betting Preview. Tuesday 26th June 2018, FIFA World Cup 2018, Group D, Rostov Arena, Rostov-On-Don. Live on BBC 1 – Kick-Off: 19:00 GMT.

Iceland vs Croatia
Tuesday 26th June 2018
FIFA World Cup 2018, Group DRostov Arena, Rostov-On-Don

Live on BBC 4 – Kick-Off: 19:00

Iceland vs Croatia – Iceland suffered a disappointing defeat to the hands of Nigeria as Ahmed Musa stole headlines with an impressive brace. Gylfi Sigurdsson had the chance to give Iceland a lifeline from the penalty spot. However, fluffed his lines to leave Iceland in a poor position in the group table.

Croatia have been arguably the tournament’s best performers so far. Their 3-0 demolition job of Argentina illustrated their excellence, with Luka Modric the stand-out performer. They have already secured qualification to the knockout stages with two victories, so they could rest a few key faces to preserve energy.

Iceland were incredibly impressive in their 1-1 draw with Argentina and will now need to produce the performance of a lifetime if they are to get through the group. They are priced at 13/5 to win the match by SkyBet. Alfreð Finnbogason scored his countries first ever World Cup goal and is the Icelandic’s biggest goal threat against Croatia. He is price boosted at 7/1 to score first.

Croatia have strength in numbers throughout their squad and pose a tricky attacking threat. Striker Ante Rebic opened the scoring against Argentina and remained a threat for large quantities of the match. Mario Mandzukic is likely to lead the line; a responsibility he has impressed with so far. The Juventus striker is priced at 6/1 to score first.

Spaniard Antonio Mateu Lahoz will be the official for this match. The referee will not be a sight for Manchester City fan’s sore eyes after he went a little mental with bookings during Liverpool’s Champions League second leg against the Premier League Champions.

VAR is continuing to affect the tournaments matches as it seems to be correcting decisions aplenty. For VAR to be used in 90 mins 1+ times you will get odds of 6/4.

Prediction: Iceland 1 – 2 Croatia

Suggested Tips –  Iceland vs Croatia – (BET365):

  • Croatia win – 2-1 – (link no longer available).

Suggested Tips – Iceland vs Croatia – (SKYBET):

  • Gylfi Sigurdsson 2+ Shots On Target – 9/4.
    – The Everton man will be his usual dangerous self from set-pieces and also enjoys to bomb forward and test the goalkeeper.
  • Over 2.5 Goals, Over 10.5 Corners, Over 35 Booking Points – 8/1.
    – Iceland will be throwing everything at Croatia so expect plenty of shots, corners and cards.Both Players to Score.
  • VAR to be used 1+ times – 6/4. (NAP). 

Tips updated at 16:55 GMT on 26th June 2018. Markets unlikely be updated again prior to the game kicking off.

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

 

 

Australia vs Peru - Match Betting Preview. Tuesday 26th June 2018, FIFA World Cup 2018, Group C, Fisht Stadium, Sochi. Live on ITV 4 – Kick-Off: 15:00 GMT.

Australia vs Peru
Tuesday 26th June 2018
FIFA World Cup 2018, Group C, Fisht Stadium, Sochi

Live on ITV 4 – Kick-Off: 15:00

Australia vs Peru. Australia head into their final group game against Peru knowing they must win to have any hope of qualifying for the round of 16.

After collecting just one point from their first two fixtures, Australia need three points to save their flailing hopes of qualifying. Last time out they battled back to draw 1-1 with Denmark, a point that kept alive their World Cup hopes. They now must beat Peru, and hope that France beat Denmark, which would leave both sides tied on four points – leaving second spot coming down to goal difference. Australia have battled impressively in both games, making up for what they lack in prowess with physical endeavour.

However, they can pose a threat to sides and have a number of important players. Aaron Mooy and Mile Jedinak are both vital in midfield; the Aston Villa man has scored both of their goals from 12 yards. In attack, Mathew Leckie has caught the eye, in addition to teenage-sensation Daniel Arzani. The 19-year-old winger has been dubbed as the best talent to come out of Australia since Harry Kewell and scored three goals in his breakthrough season with Melbourne City.

Peru have brought life and soul to the competition. Their 15,000 fans, celebrating their first World Cup since 1982, have brought a carnival atmosphere to Russia. Sadly, their team haven’t delivered on the field which has consequently left them bottom of Group C after two defeats. They are now out of the World Cup, but will be hoping to give their fans one last hurrah in this match. They were narrowly beaten 1-0 by France last time out, which condemned them to their fate. Like a few smaller nations, their build-up play is easy on the eye, but they lack a killer instinct infront of goal. Still, with one game left, they will want to try and register a point on the board, or at least find the back of the net.

Sergey Karasev is the referee for this game. The Russian official has averaged 3.43 yellow and 0.22 red cars in 79 international matches. With that in mind, I would recommend a maximum of 30+ match booking points.

This game won’t be a thriller, with both sides yet to score from open play. Australia lack quality for all their industry, whilst Peru lack a goalscorer. This could be the first blank of the tournament.

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

Prediction: Australia 0-0 Peru

Suggested Tips –  Australia vs Peru – (BET365):

  • Draw – 0-0 – (link no longer available).

Suggested Tips – Australia vs Peru – (SKYBET):

  • Farfan to score and win – 7/2.
  • Australia to win by exactly one goal – 7/2

Tips updated at 13:30 GMT on 25th June 2018. Markets will be updated again prior to kick-off so keeping checking this page 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.

FIFA World Cup 2018 – Promotional Offer by BET365

 

Denmark vs France - Match Betting Preview. Tuesday 26th June 2018, FIFA World Cup 2018, Group C, Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow. Live on ITV – Kick-Off: 15:00 GMT.

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.

FIFA World Cup 2018 – Promotional Offer by BET365

 

 

Spain vs Morocco - Match Betting Preview. Monday 25th June 2018, FIFA World Cup 2018, Group B, Kaliningrad Stadium, Kaliningrad. Live on BBC 1 – Kick-Off: 19:00 GMT.

Spain vs Morocco
Monday 25th June 2018
FIFA World Cup 2018, Group BKaliningrad 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.

FIFA World Cup 2018 – Promotional Offer by BET365

 

Iran vs Portugal - Match Betting Preview. Monday 25th June 2018, FIFA World Cup 2018, Group B, Mordovia Arena, Saransk. Live on BBC 4 – Kick-Off: 19:00 GMT.

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.

FIFA World Cup 2018 – Promotional Offer by BET365

Saudi Arabia vs Egypt - Match Betting Preview. Monday 25th June 2018, FIFA World Cup 2018, Group A, Volgograd Arena, Volgograd. Live on ITV 4 – Kick-Off: 15:00 GMT.

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.

FIFA World Cup 2018 – Promotional Offer by BET365

Uruguay vs Russia - Match Betting Preview. Monday 25th June 2018, FIFA World Cup 2018, Group A, Samara Arena, Samara. Live on ITV 1 – Kick-Off: 15:00 GMT.

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 Betting Preview. Sunday 24th June 2018, FIFA World Cup 2018, Group H, Kazan Arena, Kazan. Live on ITV 1 – Kick-Off: 19:00 GMT.

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 Betting Preview. Sunday 24th June 2018, FIFA World Cup 2018, Group H, Ekaterinburg Arena, Ekaterinburg. Live on BBC 1 – Kick-Off: 16:00 GMT.

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