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France vs England - Match Betting Preview. Sunday 15th July 2018, FIFA World Cup 2018, World Cup Final, Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow. Live on ITV 1 or BBC 1 – Kick-Off: 16:00 GMT.

France vs Croatia
Sunday 15th July 2018
FIFA World Cup 2018 Final, Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow

Live on BBC 1 & ITV 1 – Kick-Off: 16:00

After a month worth of football France vs Croatia is the World Cup final, with both sides desperate to finish the match as world champions.

France secured their place Sunday’s showpiece with a 1-0 win against Belgium. Samuel Umtiti’s first goal of the tournament was enough to secure the win. Despite having the third-youngest squad in the competition, it was a mature display from France. Their backline, of which only Rafael Varane is older than 24, were fantastic. Hugo Lloris in goal put in another fine display, with a few important saves to keep the Red Devils at bay. France have only conceded four goals in this tournament, with three of those strikes coming against Argentina. They have kept four clean sheets, the most in the tournament. It was a very tight game that France just about edged, which has now put them on the brink of their first World Cup triumph since 1998, exactly 20 years ago. This would be their first-ever victory on foreign soil, having lifted their first trophy in Paris.

Croatia once again found a way to win. They are yet to win a knockout-game having played extra-time in each match since the group stages. They needed penalties to get past Denmark and Russia, but broke English hearts in extra-time thanks to Mario Mandzukic. That win only further epitomised Croatia’s desire and resilience, after battling back from being 1-0 down inside five minutes. Luka Modric again ran the show as his bid for the golden ball gathers momentum, whilst Ivan Perisic scored and lead the comeback. The Inter Milan winger was a menace down the left-hand-side, causing England multiple problems with his ability to shift the ball on to either foot. Croatia don’t know when they are beaten; an admirable trait that could be crucial in the final.

Nestor Pitana is the referee for this match. The 43-year-old Argentine official was the man in the middle for France’s 2-0 victory against Uruguay in the quarter-finals, as well as Croatia’s penalty shoot-out victory over Denmark in the round of 16. He has averaged 4.62 yellow cards per game across 87 international matches. Therefore, I would advise a maximum total of 50+ booking points for this game.

Croatia have proved throughout they are stubborn opponents, who will never lie down. France will obviously be huge favourites for the match but will have to be patient to break Croatia down. I’m going to plump for a draw in this game, with France to sneak the win in extra-time, or from 12 yards.

The world cup final between France vs Croatia will be televised live in the UK on both BBC 1 and ITV 1 with kick-off at 16:00 GMT.

Prediction: France 1-1 Croatia

Suggested Tips – France vs Croatia – (BET365):

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

Suggested Tips – France vs Croatia – (SKYBET):

  • First Goalscorer – Antoinne Griezmann – 9/2. 
  • France to win on Penalties – 9/1.
  • Croatia to win in Extra Time – 18/1.  
  • France to win by exactly by one goal  – 8/1.  
  • Popular RequestABets – France v Croatia – Griezmann to score, 3+ corners each team and Vida to be carded – 12/1.  (NB). 
  • RequestABet Specials 80/1 and above – Rebic, Griezmann, & Mbappe 2+ Shots each on target and Perisic 1+ shot on target – 125/1.
  • RequestABet Specials 200/1 and above – Luca Modric to score, Croatia win 2-0 and Brozovic to be carded –  500/1. (Possible cover bet – 0.25pt). 
  • Popular RequestABets – France v Croatia –Over 1.5 Goals, 5+ France corners, 3+ Croatia corners, and 10+ booking points each team – 100/30. (NAP).
  • Player Carded Accumulators – France vs Croatia – Dejan Lovren and Marcelo Brazovic to be carded – 10/1.
  • RequestABet Specials upto 9/2 – BTTS and 20+ Booking Points each team – 5/1. (NB 2).
  • RequestABet Specials upto 9/2 – BTTS, 3+ corners each team and 20+ Croatia Booking Points – 7/2. (NB 3).
  • Player Carded Accumulators – France vs Croatia – Paul Pogba and Dejan Lovren both to be carded – 14/1. (NB4).
  • RequestABet Specials 5/1 to 9/1 – Pavard 1+ Shots on Target & Lovren 1+ shots on Target – 40/1. (NB 5).

Lots of tips for today’s final listed – we have given our NAP and Next Best picks (NB). Back the tips you actually like rather than all, stake what you can afford and don’t go too mad unless you can afford too. Enjoy the final !

Tips updated at 12:28 GMT on 15th July 2018.

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Belgium vs England - Match Betting Preview. Saturday 14th July 2018, FIFA World Cup 2018, Third Place Play Off Final, Saint Petersburg Stadium, St. Petersburg. Live on ITV 1 – Kick-Off: 15:00 GMT.

Belgium vs England
Saturday 14th July 2018
FIFA World Cup 2018, Third-Place Play Off, Saint Petersburg Stadium, St. Petersburg

Live on ITV 1 – Kick-Off: 15:00

Belgium vs England – After falling agonisingly short of glory in the semi-finals, Belgium and England will contest the World Cup Third Place Play-Off.

In arguably the most important game in football that neither side wants to play, memories of the defeat just one step away from the World Cup Final will inevitably plague both sides. The deflation of being eliminated in the semi-finals makes it hard to re-motivate for a match that pales in comparison of significance.

Whilst sharing the disappointment, the two nations will reflect on the tournament much differently. Gareth Southgate’s young England team far surpassed all expectations and enchanted the hearts of a nation. A favourable run-in yes, but this was an outrageously unpredictable tournament.

Teams like Germany and Spain were unable to string wins together against ‘smaller’ nations. England should be proud of their achievements, the team has undoubtedly progressed throughout the tournament. Croatia just proved one step too far, losing 2-1 in extra time.

That feels like a large contrast for Belgium’s ‘Golden Generation’. A hefty tag to live up to always, but with that crop of talent it seemed this was the opportunity. World-class talents like Kevin De Bruyne, Eden Hazard and Romelu Lukaku saw the Red Devils as a pre-tournament favourite.

Beating England, a comeback victory against Japan and then besting Brazil all portrayed positive signs. However, a resilient French display saw the golden generation crash out 1-0, dreams of meeting expectations flittered away. Roberto Martinez may have a lot to answer for upon returning home.

So the small matter of the Third Place Play-Off is where it currently stands. To say you are the third best team in the world is a huge accomplishment. It’s just a shame it will be the second ‘meaningless’ game these two sides have played just in this tournament. Third place will be Belgium’s best-ever finish at the World Cup, or England’s best after the 1966 win. Claiming third will allow the victors to leave on somewhat of a high.

The golden boot is still also in contention. Barring something miraculous, it will go to either Harry Kane or Romelu Lukaku. The Spurs hitman has six strikes so far, but Lukaku has four and one more assist (one) so a brace could see him take the title. A stellar World Cup for both, who have proven their status among elite strikers.

With the pure exhaustion experienced last time out, expect wholesale changes to be made for this one. Especially in England’s case after their gruelling extra-time laden semi-final. Nonetheless, this match at the World Cup tends to produce goals as both sides open themselves up more. Hopefully the same will happen, dependant on whether the high-quality forwards on both teams turn up.

England and Belgium can both look back on the 2018 World Cup with a lot of pride. But for the next four years there will always be that lingering question, what if?

Prediction: Belgium 2-0 England

Suggested Tips – Belgium vs England – (BET365):

  • Belgium win 2-0 – (link no longer available).

Suggested Tips – Belgium vs England – (SKYBET):

  • Price Boost – Harry Maguire to score a header – 22/1. 
  • To Score And Win – Romelu Lukaku and Belgium to win – 9/4.
  • Scorecast Boost: Romelu Lukaku to score first and Belgium win 2-0  – 45/1.  
  • RequestABet Specials 80/1 and above – Maguire to score a header and De Bruyne to score outside the area – 200/1.
  • Man of the Match – Kevin De Bruyne – 8/1.
  • Both Teams to Score – Yes and Belgium win – 5/2.  (NAP). 

Keep visiting Tips and Previews ahead of games to get our suggested tips and correct score picks for the remainders final on Sunday. Tips updated at 17:08 GMT on 13th July 2018.

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Croatia vs England - Match Betting Preview. Wednesday 11th July 2018, FIFA World Cup 2018, Quarter-finals, Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow. Live on ITV 1 – Kick-Off: 19:00 GMT.

Croatia vs England
Wednesday 11th July 2018
FIFA World Cup 2018, Semi-finals, Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow

Live on ITV 1 – Kick-Off: 19:00

England face Croatia in their first World Cup semi-final since 1990 looking to re-write the wrongs of 28 years ago.

England’s performance against Sweden was something different. It was a calm, controlled, professional win; something I have never witnessed from the Three Lions in a major tournament. There was an air of confidence about England. Despite starting slowly, they stayed calm and got the first goal through Harry Maguire. From then, it was complete domination. Dele Alli’s first goal of the World Cup sealed the win as England professionally managed their way into the last four. The cries of ‘football’s coming home’ are growing louder.

Another pleasing thing for Gareth Southgate is that this match was also the first in which Harry Kane hadn’t scored in. The fear that if Kane didn’t find the net, neither would England, has been eased with goals provided from elsewhere in the side. Raheem Sterling put in a much-improved display against Sweden and was a constant menace running in-behind their defence. Sterling still faced some criticism, however, for his lack of cutting edge in front of goal. He needs a goal to get the monkey off his back.

Croatia moved into the last four after a second consecutive penalty shoot-out win. This time it was Russia who fell short, as Subasic once again proved to be the hero. Russia’s two goals will have given England cause for optimism. The second, in particular, from a set piece showed that whilst Croatia have fantastically gifted footballers, they can be exploited. Stopping Luka Modric and Ivan Rakitic pulling the strings in midfield will be Southgate’s biggest worry. Modric, in particular, has shone during this tournament. Mario Mandzukic always provides a goal threat and can be deadly in the air, so concentration will be key for the Three Lions’ backline.

Cuneyt Cakir is the referee for this game. The Turkish official has averaged 3.99 yellow and 0.21 red cards per match in 137 international matches. He’s also awarded 0.27 penalties per match during those games. Therefore, I would advise a maximum booking points total of 40+ for this game.

This will be England’s toughest game to date. Both teams will come into this match feeling it is their best ever chance to reach a World Cup final. I think it will be a draw in 90 minutes, but I could see England snatching the win in extra time. If not, it could go all the way to penalties. When has there ever gone wrong before?

Prediction: Croatia 1-1 England

Suggested Tips – Croatia vs England – (BET365):

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

Suggested Tips – Croatia vs England – (SKYBET):

  • Popular RequestABet – Harry Maguire or John Stones to score a header – 13/2. 
  • Anytime Goalscorer – Harry Kane – 11/8.
  • England to win in Extra Time – 9/2.  
  • RequestABet Specials Up to 10/1 – Croatia v England – Rakitic to score, Croatia to win, BTTS, 4+ corners each team and 20+ booking points each team – 66/1.  (Possible cover bet – 0.25pt). 
  • FootyAccums RequestABets – Alli to score, 3+ corners each team, Rakitic & Young to be carded (90 mins) and England to qualify – 150/1. (Outsider/Longshot – 0.25pt). 
  • Scorecast Boost (Double Chance) – Luca Modric to score first and Croatia win either 2-1 or 3-1 – 60/1. (NB 2). (Possible cover bet – 0.25pt). 
  • RequestABet Specials 80/1 and above – Modric & Kane to score, Draw 1-1 ,and Lovren & Young to be carded – 450/1.
  • Price Boost – Jesse Lingard to score outside the area in 90 mins – 14/1.
  • RequestABet Specials Up to 10/1 – Croatia v England – Over 1.5 goals, Kramaric 1+ shots on target & Kane 2+ shots on target, 8+ match corners & 10+ booking points each team – 6/1.  (NB). 
  • RequestABet Specials Up to 10/1 – Croatia v England – Over 1.5 goals, 3+ Croatia Corners, 4+ England Corners and 30+ Match Booking Points – 15/8.  (NAP). 
  • RequestABet Specials 80/1 and above – Croatia v England – Over 0.5 goals, 3+ corners each team and Lovren, Vrsaljko & Henderson to be carded – 100/1. (Added – 16:06 GMT). 

Keep visiting Tips and Previews ahead of games to get our suggested tips and correct score picks for the remainders tomorrow’s second semi-final. Tips updated at 16:08 GMT on 11th July 2018.

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France vs Belgium - Match Betting Preview. Tuesday 10th July 2018, FIFA World Cup 2018, Quarter-finals, Saint Petersburg Stadium, St. Petersburg. Live on BBC 1 – Kick-Off: 19:00 GMT.

France vs Belgium
Tuesday 10th July 2018
FIFA World Cup 2018, Semi-finals,  Saint Petersburg Stadium, St. Petersburg

Live on BBC 1 – Kick-Off: 19:00

France vs Belgium –  the first semi-final takes place tonight with both sets of players desperate to help their side into the final of the World Cup.

France are in their first World Cup semi-final since 2006. They progressed that night, before famously losing the final to Italy after Zinedine Zidane’s headbutt. This, however, is a much different side to that of ’06. They still have their superstars; Antoine Griezmann took his tally for the tournament to three goals after his long-range strike fumbled through Fernando Muslera’s hands. That goal gave France a two-goal cushion – a lead they never looked like losing. The game management after the Atletico Madrid forward’s 61st-minute strike was that of a team of winners. France have the third-lowest average age in their 23 man squad, at 26, but this performance was one that matched a much more wiley bunch.

Whilst Griezmann, Paul Pogba and Kylian Mbappe will take all the headlines, France’s rearguard deserves some of the limelight too. After leaking three goals against Argentina, it was a much more solid display from two of the world’s most promising centre-backs. Rafael Varane and Samuel Umtiti have struck up a solid partnership, despite their Real Madrid – Barcelona differences at club level. Some may even suggest they are better than Spain’s combination of Sergio Ramos and Gerrard Pique

Belgium claimed their biggest scalp of the tournament with a 2-1 win over Brazil. Roberto Martinez changed the Red Devils’ shape, opting for a 4-3-3 system and deploying Kevin De Bruyne as a false nine. It worked a treat; Brazil’s offensive style often left KDB, Eden Hazard and Romelu Lukaku three on three. Lukaku, in particular, has been sensational during this tournament. He is yet to score since the group stages, however, he has still influenced both Belgium’s games, which was often a criticism in the past. We also saw the best of KDB in this game. It will be interesting to see how Martinez sets up against France, who are a much different team to Brazil.

Andreas Cunha is the referee for this match. The Uruguayan has averaged 4.12 yellow and 0.27 red cards per match in 49 international matches. He’s also awarded 0.22 penalties per match during those games. Therefore, I would advise a maximum booking points total of 40+ for this game.

I fancied Brazil to win the World Cup, but Belgium blew them away with their tactics on Friday night. France will be wary of underestimating them as a result, but will still be confident of getting a result. There is so little to separate these two star-studded teams and I think this one will go all the way.

Prediction: France 1-1 Belgium

Suggested Tips – France vs Belgium – (BET365):

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

Suggested Tips – France vs Belgium – (SKYBET):

  • Both Players to Score – Romelu Lukaku and Antoinne Grizzman both to score – 7/1. 
  • A Penalty to be scored in 90 minutes – 21/10.
  • Either team to win on penalties – 9/2.  
  • RequestABet Specials Up to 10/1 – France v Belgium – BTTS, over 1.5 goals, 7+ match corners and 30+ match booking pts – 13/8.  (NAP).
  • FootyAccums RequestABets – France v Belgium – BTTS, 5+ Belgium corners and 20+ booking points each team – 6/1.  (NB).

Keep visiting Tips and Previews ahead of games to get our suggested tips and correct score picks for the remainders tomorrow’s second semi-final. Tips updated at 17:10 GMT on 10th July 2018.

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Russia vs Croatia - Match Betting Preview. Saturday 7th July 2018, FIFA World Cup 2018, Quarter-finals, Fisht Stadium, Sochi. Live on ITV 1 – Kick-Off: 19:00 GMT.

Russia vs Croatia
Saturday 7th July 2018
FIFA World Cup 2018, Quarter-finals,  Fisht Stadium, Sochi

Live on ITV 1 – Kick-Off: 19:00

Russia vs Croatia – The last quarter-final sees hosts Russia face dark horses Croatia for a history-making place in the semis.

Both teams have massively impressed on their respective paths to this point. Russia kicked off the tournament in style with a 5-0 demolishing of unsuspecting Saudi Arabia. Followed by a comfortable 3-1 win over Egypt before losing 3-0 to eventual Group A winners Uruguay.

Perhaps the biggest shock of the last 16 was Russia eliminating Spain from the tournament. Proving that no one should underestimate the hosts. Midfielders like Alexsandr Golovin and Denis Cheryshev have provided output alongside the finishing of Artem Dzyuba up top. The latter two both have three in World Cup. This tournament has been a far cry from the horrendous 2016 European Championships where Russia came bottom of the group.

If possible, Croatia have made even more of an impact. Beating Nigeria 3-0 might have been expected, but winning by the same score-line against Argentina made the world take notice. A 2-1 victory against Iceland to round the group off saw momentum maintained. The 1-1 draw and subsequent penalty shoutout win against Denmark wasn’t exceptional, but Croatia are still alive and hungry to progress.

Croatia’s midfield duo in Ivan Rakitic and Luka Modric of Barcelona and Real Madrid respectively have stormed the tournament. Even without those two stars, there is quality throughout the squad in Monaco’s Danijel Subasic in goal, Liverpool’s Dejan Lovren and Atletico’s Sime Vrsaljko in defence, Ivan Perisic and Marcelo Brozovic of Inter Milan and Modric’s Real Madrid teammate Mateo Kovacic in midfield with vetern Mario Mandzukic up front.

Zlatko Dalic is ready to lead Vatreni to match and surpass the feats of the 1998 squad, who came 3rd. Russia manager Stanislav Cherchesov will be hoping to equal his nation’s best ever World Cup performance by reaching the last four too.

Russia have topped the running stats in terms of metres covered this tournament and their energy shows, always seeming to have another gear in the latter stages of matches. Amidst the huge doping scandals of late take of that what you will. This match may be a case of Croatia’s ability (or inability) to showcase the requisite quality to break down the Russian defence and withstand the counter-attack.

The Croats definitely have the squad to do it. The Russians have the home crowd on side to prevent it. The winner of England vs Sweden awaits in the semi-finals. A mouth-watering last four clash of England against the hosts could be on the cards. Glory. Is. Possible.

Prediction – Russia 1-2 Croatia

Suggested Tips – Russia vs Croatia – (BET365):

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

Suggested Tips – Russia vs Croatia – (SKYBET):

  • Anytime Goalscorer – Luca Modric – 4/1. 
  • RequestABet Specials – 11/1 to 28/1 – Over 2.5 goals, 12+ match corners and 20+ booking points – 18/1. (NAP).
  • Scorecast Boost – Ivan Persic to score first and Croatia win 2-1 – 60/1. 
  • RequestABet Specials – 80/1 and above  – Dzyuba to score a header and Croatia to score a penalty – 66/1.
  • Cheryshev and Perisic both 2+ shots on target each – 28/1.

Keep visiting Tips and Previews ahead of games to get our suggested tips and correct score picks for the remainders ties in the quarter finals. Tips updated at 13:30 GMT on 7th July 2018.

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by ·Comments Off on Sweden vs England – Match Preview
Sweden vs England - Match Betting Preview. Saturday 7th July 2018, FIFA World Cup 2018, Quarter-finals, Samara Arena, Samara. Live on BBC 1 – Kick-Off: 15:00 GMT.

Sweden vs England
Saturday 7th July 2018
FIFA World Cup 2018, Quarter-finals,  Samara Arena, Samara

Live on BBC 1 – Kick-Off: 15:00

Sweden vs England. England can move one step closer to bringing football home with a win against Sweden when they meet in the quarter-finals of the World Cup.

Jordan Pickford’s heroics on Tuesday night secured the Three Lions’ spot in the last eight. Their spot-kick triumph was their first in 22 years, having won just one of their last seven penalty shoot-outs. It was redemption too for Gareth Southgate, who famously missed his penalty at Euro 1996 which saw England lose to Germany. Once again, Harry Kane provided the goal for England, moving onto six for the tournament. With Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Diego Costa all on the plane home, the golden boot award looks in reach. However, it’s a much bigger trophy Kane, and the rest of the country, have their eyes on. With only Sweden and Croatia/Russia standing in the way of the World Cup final, the whole country is daring to dream.

Jamie Vardy and Ashley Young are doubts for this game, with Danny Rose set to deputise at left-wing-back. Jordan Henderson and Kyle Walker are both a booking away from missing a potential semi-final clash and will, therefore, have to tread lightly. Henderson, in particular, has been one of England’s best players in Russia. The Liverpool captain has proven his importance to the side as the anchor in midfield. With Dele Alli and Jesse Lingard ahead of him, Henderson’s disciplined displays have earnt him plaudits from those who were criticising him not that long ago.

Despite being without their talisman Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Sweden have exceeded all expectations. Like England, they will feel that this could be their best chance to reach a World Cup final, following their 1-0 victory over Switzerland. Emile Forsberg’s deflected strike secured that win as they registered another clean sheet, their third of the tournament. Sweden lack a spark in attack, but they have only conceded two goals all tournament. A solid defence always gives you a huge chance of winning matches.

Bjorn Kuipers is the referee for this game. The Dutchman plies his trade in the Eredivisie where he has averaged 4.33 cards per game across 15 league games. With players running the risk of suspension, I don’t see there being a lot of cards in this one. Therefore, I would advise a maximum total of 40+ booking points for this game.

England were the best team against Colombia, yet needed a shoot-out to seal the win. They also have a terrible record against Sweden, who will be stubborn and hard to beat. That being said, this is a new England, and I don’t see any complacency creeping into Southgate’s team. If they can get an early goal, I think it should be a comfortable win. If not, then it could be a much trickier game for the Three Lions.

Prediction: Sweden 0-2 England

Suggested Tips – Sweden vs England – (BET365):

  • England win 2-0 – (link no longer available).

Suggested Tips – Sweden vs England – (SKYBET):

  • Harry Kane to score first – 5/2. 
  • John Stones to score a header – 18/1.
  • RequestABet Specials – up to 10/1  – over 1.5 goals (90mins), 5+ match corners (90mins), 20+ match booking pts (90mins) and England to qualify – 5/4. (NAP).
  • RequestABet Specials – up to 10/1  – Over 1.5 goals, Marcus Berg & Lingard 1+ Shots on Target each, 4+ England corners and 10+ booking points each team – 11/2. (NB).
  • RequestABet Specials – up to 10/1  – England to win, Lingard 1+ Shots on Target & Kane 1+ Shots on Target, 6+ England corners and 20+ Sweden booking pts – 8/1.
  • Winning Margin – England to win by exactly 1 goal – 9/4.
  • @FootyAccums RequestABet Specials – Kane to score, 6+ England corners, Larsson & Lindelof to be carded and England to qualify – 33/1.
  • RequestABet Specials – 80/1 and above – Kane & Stones to score a header – 100/1. (Outsider).
  • RequestABet Specials 33/1 to 66/1 – Sweden v England – Forsberg to score, Sweden to win, BTTS and Under 11 match corners – 33/1. (Cover).

Keep visiting Tips and Previews ahead of games to get our suggested tips and correct score picks for the remainders ties in the quarter finals. Tips updated at 10:30 GMT on 7th July 2018.

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Brazil vs Belgium - Match Betting Preview. Friday 6th July 2018, FIFA World Cup 2018, Quarter-finals, Kazan Arena, Kazan. Live on BBC 1 – Kick-Off: 19:00 GMT.

Brazil vs Belgium
Friday 6th July 2018
FIFA World Cup 2018, Quarter-finals, Kazan Arena, Kazan

Live on BBC 1 – Kick-Off: 19:00

Brazil vs Belgium – a tasty-looking quarter-final, with both sides determined to make it to the last four of the World Cup.

Brazil have been installed as the bookies’ favourite for the tournament from day one, and that remains the same. They coasted past Mexico in the last round, with second-half goals from Neymar and Roberto Firmino making the difference. Whilst Mexico did have spells of pressure during the match, there was only going to be one winner. One thing that has gone under the radar is Brazil’s incredible defensive record. They have conceded just five goals in 22 matches, and just once at this World Cup. Miranda and Thiago Silva have been rock-solid at the heart of their backline, with Fagner and Marcelo/Filipe Luis at full-back.

In attack, Neymar seems to be gearing up to his best. The PSG playmaker has scored two goals in his last three games, also registering one assist. However, in my opinion, Phillipe Coutinho is actually Brazil’s most important player. The former Liverpool star has been their chief source of creativity from a central midfield position. His vision and range of passing is exemplary, whilst he always carries a goal threat, especially from long range.

Belgium needed a last-minute winner to turn around a two-goal deficit against Japan. Roberto Martinez’s team found themselves 2-0 down in the second half but managed to restore parity through Jan Vertonghen and substitute Marouane Fellaini. Then, from Japan’s own corner, Nacer Chadli complete the comeback following a swift counter-attack. There’s no doubt that Belgium’s subs made the difference, but it was actually a change in Kevin De Bruyne’s position that made the difference. With Dries Mertens going off, KDB was allowed to play further forward, which prompted Belgium’s upturn in performance. Martinez has been using him too deep and to get the best out of the City star, he needs to play in a more advanced role.

Milorad Masic is the referee for this match. The Serbian has averaged 4.26 yellow cards per game, along with 0.24 reds in 117 international matches. There are number of players (including Neymar), who are one caution away from missing the semi-finals. With that in mind, I’d suggest a maximum of 40+ total match booking points for this game.

I think Martinez will opt for an extra midfielder against Brazil’s trio, which will push De Bruyne closer to Romelu Lukaku. If they can get him on the ball, there’s no doubt the pair, accompanied by Eden Hazard can cause problems. At the other end, Brazil will feel confident they can score goals, after watching Japan strike twice. Overall, I think Brazil will win, by a tight margin. It will be interesting to see how Brazil’s impressive defence does hold up against Belgium’s attack, but I think they will progress into the last four.

Prediction: Brazil 2-1 Belgium

Suggested Tips – Brazil vs Belgium – (BET365):

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

Suggested Tips – Uruguay vs France – (SKYBET):

  • A penalty to be scored in 90 mins – 10/3. 
  • Brazil to win by exactly 1 goal. – 11/4.
  • Penalty Specials – Either team to win on pens – 11/2.
  • Coutinho 1+ shots on target, Neymar 1+ shots on target & Eden Hazard 1+ shots on target – 15/8. (NB).
  • Both Player to Score – Lukaku and Neymar to both score – 7/1.
  • RequestABet Specials – Up to 10/1 – Neymar 1+ shots on target, 3+ corners in each half, 10+ booking points each team (all 90mins) and Brazil to qualify – 7/4. (NAP).
  • Coutinho & De Bruyne to score from outside the area – 150/1. (0.25 pt outsider). 
  • @FootyAccums RequestABet Specials – Neymar & Lukaku to score, Fernandinho & Kompany to be carded (all 90 mins) and Brazil to qualify – 100/1. (Added 17:22 GMT).

Keep visiting Tips and Previews ahead of games to get our suggested tips and correct score picks for the remainders ties in the quarter finals. Tips updated at 17:22 GMT on 6th July 2018.

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by ·Comments Off on Uruguay vs France – Match Preview
Uruguay vs France, Uruguay, France, Match Betting Preview, FIFA World Cup 2018, World Cup, Quarter-finals, Nizhny Novgorod Stadium, Nizhny Novgorod, ITV

Uruguay vs France
Friday 6th July 2018
FIFA World Cup 2018, Quarter-finals, Nizhny Novgorod Stadium, Nizhny Novgorod

Live on ITV 1 – Kick-Off: 15:00

Uruguay vs France – both nations will lock horns this Friday in the first of four quarter-finals ties of the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

Neither nations have been at their best for the duration of the competition yet. Uruguay’s strike force of Luis Suarez and Edison Cavani finally seemed to click in their last match. Meanwhile, France’s clinical attack seemed to have now settled, as they ran out 4-3 victors against Argentina in the round of 16.

Uruguay are a very well organised side defensively and seem to have multiple players who cover every blade of grass. This hardworking mentality begins with their first line of defence; the strikers. Barcelona’s Suarez and PSG’s Cavani worked tirelessly in both defence and attack when Uruguay saw off Portugal last round.

SkyBet have gifted us with a price boost for both players. Luis Suarez to score first has been boosted to 6/1 – very nice odds. Whilst Edison Cavani to score a header is 20/1.

On the other side, France will be brimming with confidence after finally illustrating they can score goals. 19-year-old sensation Kylian Mbappe stole headlines with a tidy brace for the French, as Antione Griezmann fired home from the spot and Benjamin Pavard scored with a delightful strike that is sure to be a contender to win goal of the tournament.

Kylian Mbappe was a pleasure to watch in their last outing. His sheer pace was frightening and caused so many issues for Argentina’s defence. He is priced at 11/2 to score first.

France are favourites for the match and are priced at EVENS to win in 90 minutes. Their opponents are priced at 7/2 to cause another upset in a World Cup full of them.

The referee for this encounter will be Nestor Pintana. Neither side have been too familiar with the referee’s pockets however knockout games can get a lot feistier. Pintana has given out 8 yellow cards this world cup in 3 games therefore 20 booking points should be a safe bet – 30 as a maximum.

Prediction: France 3 – 1 Uruguay.

Suggested Tips – Uruguay vs France – (BET365):

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

Suggested Tips – Uruguay vs France – (SKYBET):

  • Antoine Griezmann to score and France to win in 90 mins – 7/2. 
  • Both Player to Score – Edinson Cavani and Antoine Griezmann both to score in 90 mins. – 9/1.
  • @FootyAccums RequestABet Specials – Suarez & Griezmann to score, Vecino to be carded (all 90 mins) and France to qualify – 66/1. (0.5pt Outsider).
  • Popular RequestABet – Suarez to score, Draw 1-1 (both 90 mins) and France to win on pens – 33/1.
  • RequestABet Specials – Up to 10/1 – Over 1.5 goals, Suarez & Griezmann 1+ shots on target each, 3+ corners each team and 30+ match booking pts – 7/2. (NAP).
  • RequestABet Specials – Up to 10/1 – Griezmann to score, France to score 2+ goals, 3+ corners each team and 20+ match booking pts – 6/1. (NB).
  • Price Boost – Diego Godin to score a header – 20/1. (NB 2).

Keep visiting Tips and Previews ahead of games to get our suggested tips and correct score picks for the remainders ties in the quarter finals. Tips updated at 12:05 GMT on 6th July 2018.

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by ·Comments Off on Colombia vs England – Match Preview
Colombia vs England - Match Betting Preview. Tuesday 3rd July 2018, FIFA World Cup 2018, Round of 16, Spartak Stadium, Moscow. Live on ITV 1 – Kick-Off: 19:00 GMT.

Colombia vs England
Tuesday 3rd July 2018
FIFA World Cup 2018, Round of 16, Spartak Stadium, Moscow

Live on ITV 1 – Kick-Off: 19:00

Colombia vs England – Is football coming home? Colombia stand in the way of England on their quest to World Cup glory.

A wave of optimism and patriotism has overcome the ever-vociferous England fans during this campaign. An injury time winner in the first match against Tunisia and Panama’s 6-1 demolishing have helped instil belief. Harry Kane topping the Golden Boot charts with five (including a hat-trick against Panama) solidifies this. The Spurs hitman has scored at a rate of one every 31 minutes so far this tournament. Kane to score at anytime is 6/4 with SkyBet.

The last match against Belgium was a dead rubber. Both sides made wholesale changes as England slumped to a 1-0 defeat via Adnan Januzai’s great goal. However, this put England in the ‘better’ half of the draw with a path to the Final that, even if the favourites of other matches win, reads (in order) Colombia, Switzerland in the quarters then Croatia in the semi-finals. What a fantastic opportunity to make history.

Gareth Southgate’s side still first have to navigate a difficult task in the form of Colombia. After going down to ten men and losing their first match 2-1 to Japan, Colombia have recovered very well. Jose Pekerman’s side destroyed Poland 3-0, playing some brilliant football, before earning a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Senegal (courtesy of a Yerry Mina header) in the winner-takes-all last group stage game.

A lot of the pre-match talk has been involving Colombia’s star man James Rodriguez. The Bayern Munich playmaker came off in the first half against Senegal and is a major doubt for this game. His absence will be a huge boost for England as everything goes through his mercurial talent.

Colombia still possess quality throughout the team though, Radamel Falcao, Juan Cuadrado, Juan Quintero are all dangerous going forward whilst Mina and Davison Sanchez of Barcelona and Tottenham Hotspur respectively are at the heart of defence. Mina and Stones (who’s already scored twice) to both get at least one shot on target each is 25/1 with SkyBet

England will come into this game as favourites, but it could be a beautifully poised match. Especially as both teams try and play football that is easy on the eye. The path to glory is there for both teams, who will break the mould and take it?

Prediction – Colombia 1-2 England 

In line with this, an appealing request-a-bet is Kane to score first, England to win and both teams to score. The RAB has shortened from 16/1 too 14/1 with SkyBet.

Suggested Tips – Colombia vs England – (SKYBET):

  • England win 2-1 – 9/1.
  • Popular Bets – Kane to score, Falcao 1+ offsides and 1+ corners each team in each half- 9/2. (NAP).
  • RequestABet Specials 80/1 and above – Falcao, Kane & Lingard to score and England 2-1 – 80/1.
  • Redknapp’s RAB: Kane to score first, BTTS and England win – 14/1. (NB).
  • RequestABet Specials upto 10/1 – BTTS, 4+ corners each team and 20+ booking points each team – 10/1. (Note: Same bet with 10+ booking points each available at 5/1).
  • RequestABet Specials upto 10/1 – Over 1.5 goals, 3+ corners each team, 10+ booking points each team (all 90 mins) and England to qualify – 11/4.
  • RequestABet Specials upto 10/1 – Over 1.5 goals, Falcao 1+ shots on target & Kane 1+ shots on target, 6+ match corners and 20+ match booking pts – 5/2. (NB 2).
  • Player To Score Outside the Penalty Area – James Rodriguez – 12/1. (Added: 17:05).
  • RequestABet Specials 80/1 and above – Colombia v England – Falcao 1+ shots on target, Cuadrado 1+ shots on target, Maguire 1+ shots on target & Stones 1+ shots on target – 12/1. (Added: 18:15).
  • RequestABet Specials 11/1 to 28/1 – Colombia v England – Kane 1+ shots on target, Fernando Quintero  1+ shots on target, Lingard 1+ shots on target & Falcao 1+ shots on target – 13/2. (Added: 18:20 – was 9/1 – shorterned too 13/2).
  • RequestABet Specials 80/1 and above – Colombia v England – Kane 3+ shots on target, Falcao 2+ shots on target & Stones 1+ shots on target – 100/1. (Added: 18:25 – was 125/1 – shorterned too 100/1).

Keep visiting Tips and Previews ahead of games to get our suggested tips and correct score picks for the games. Tips updated at 18:25 GMT on 3rd July 2018.

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by ·Comments Off on Sweden vs Switzerland – Match Preview
Sweden vs Switzerland - Match Betting Preview. Tuesday 3rd July 2018, FIFA World Cup 2018, Round of 16, Saint Petersburg Stadium St. Petersburg. Live on BBC 1 – Kick-Off: 15:00 GMT.

Sweden vs Switzerland
Tuesday 3rd July 2018
FIFA World Cup 2018, Round of 16, Saint Petersburg Stadium, St. Petersburg

Live on BBC 1 – Kick-Off: 15:00 

Sweden and Switzerland both battled through difficult groups to earn the chance to play each other for a place in the World Cup quarter-finals.

Whilst this may not be the most appetising of the last 16 clashes, neither team should be underestimated. Switzerland were value for their point against Brazil and Sweden were cruelly beaten by Toni Kroos’ last-minute wonder goal.

Switzerland proceeded to pick up four points from their remaining two matches (2-1 vs Serbia and 2-2 vs Costa Rica). Sweden opened their campaign with a rugged 1-0 win against South Korea before smashing the previously excellent Mexico 3-0. The latter result was a massive shock, especially as Mexico had so deservedly beaten Germany beforehand.

Switzerland are currently at their joint-highest ever World Ranking at 9th place. Manager Vladimir Petkovic will see this as a fantastic opportunity to reach a first World Cup quarter-final in 64 years. The Rossocrociati have lost just once in 20 matches. Incredible. Defence has been key to that outstanding run, keeping 11 clean sheets during that period.

Going forward has often been the issue for Switzerland against better teams. However, Xherdan Shakiri seems to be firing on all cylinders and forward Josep Drmic got on the scoresheet last time out. Mix a Granit Xhaka screamer in there (like he did against Serbia) and the potential to score is present.

Long gone are the days of Sweden’s World Cup success, but now have their defence to thank for being in this great position to try and replicate it. Janne Anderson’s team have kept four clean sheets in their last five games and have only conceded more than once to Germany, Chile and Netherlands in their last 13 (where they still only conceded twice). The attack is definitely the issue for Sweden though. Only two players in the entire squad having scored more than eight international goals (Ola Toivonen with 14 and Marcus Berg with 18).

Set pieces have been pivotal for Sweden and may present their best chance to win this tie. Captain Granqvist is The Swedes’ top scorer at the tournament with two penalties. Sweden will be heavily relying on the talents of RB Leipzig’s Emil Forsberg for creativity. A first World Cup quarter-final in 24 years could depend on it.

This may not be the most fluid and attractive game of football but it will be an intriguing one nonetheless. Both perennial underdogs, but something has got to give. It will more than likely be decided by a mistake or a moment of magic. The reward? Facing the victor of England and Colombia in the last eight. The stakes couldn’t be higher.

Belgium vs Japan will be televised live in the UK on BBC 1 with kick off at 19:00.

Prediction – Sweden 1-1 Switzerland 

Suggested Tips – Sweden vs Switzerland – (SKYBET):

  • Draw 1-1 – 9/2.
  • Switzerland win After Extra Time – 10/1. (NB).
  • Scorecast Boost (Double Chance) Blerim Dzemaili to score first and Switzerland win 1-0 or draw 1-1 – 50/1. 
  • Both teams to score in 90 minutes and either team win on pens – 13/2.
  • Redknapp’s RAB: Draw 0-0 (90mins) and Sweden to win in ET – 22/1. (NB2).
  • RequestABet Specials – Marcus Berg 1+ shots on target, 3+ corners each team and 10+ booking points each team – 2/1. (NAP – added 11:05 GMT).

This looks a really tough game to bet on – we advise only backing one or two of the markets listed above today.

There are also a couple of 80/1 and above markets that have 0-0 or 1-1 and no booking points at big odds – 100/1+ – worth a small cover on those too.

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.Tips updated at 11:05 GMT on 3rd July 2018.

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