The FIFA World Cup group stage and round of 16 is finally done and dusted, which means only eight nations dreams are alive to hoist Football’s grandest trophy. The latest odds and betting lines have Brazil as the heavy favorite to win it all and England a favorite to advance to the semis. Can the host nation Russia advance? Or will Cruising Croatia continue on their merry way. Brilliant Belgium tackle favorites Brazil in what could easily be the final. England draw Sweden who are the lowest ranked team left in the competition, whilst Uruguay are likely to be without star Edison Cavani against an explosive French unit.
France vs. Uruguay
France struggled in the group stage, doing just enough to get the job done. However there round of 16 game was another story, they were dominant, explosive and demolished Argentina! The game opened up and they made Messi and Argentina look second rate, this must have been satisfying for France as there group stage matches were against low ranked teams who just tried to lock the French down.
Uruguay come in undefeated and off the back of a big win over Ronaldo and Portugal. They possess the best centre back duo in Russia with Diego Godin and Jose Gimenez. Kylian Mbappe won’t have the roam he enjoyed last game. The biggest question is the fitness of Cavani, Uruguay have told us it’s a race against time and he most likely will not start against France. I don’t see them having enough offensive talent to win without him.
Best Bet – France to Win $2 – Griezmann to score, France win $4.50
Two of the powerhouse’s of the World Cup meet in the Quarter Finals. Brazil have been winning, but without authority. They have one of the best defenses keeping 19 clean sheets since the introduction of coach Tite. There offense looks potent on paper but have struggled in Russia. The formation is not working and I think it’s time for Gabriel Jesus to make way for Roberto Firmino. Jesus looks lost in the system, failing to run into spaces and at times running into teammates. In my opinion he’s costing them goals and is yet to find the scoresheet throughout the tournament. The 19 year old is a fine talent, but I believe this is a World Cup too soon.
Belgium have been brilliant and score in bunches. They are confident, clean with the ball and deadly on the counter attack. De Bruyne is a sensation as is Eden Hazard, Lukaku is looking at challenging for the golden boot. This match could easily be the final and promise’s to show some of the best talent in World Football.
Best Bet – Belgium to win $3.65 – Lukaku to score, Belgium win $6
World Cup Winner
| Brazil | |
| England | |
| France | |
| Belgium | |
| Croatia | |
| Uruguay | |
| Russia | |
| Sweden |
