Russia World Cup is now.
We are just 10 days from the beginning of the FIFA World Cup in Russia! As teams all over the world prepare for the big tournament with a series of friendlies, we look at the eight groups of the first phase where 32 games will be played.
The odds are in favor of Brazil, Germany and Spain. Many bookmakers are already placing the best free bets for World Cup 2018 with just 10 days to go before kick-off, and you can see more of that on BettingInstitute.co.uk. Will one of these nations win the World Cup in Russia or another outside such as France, Belgium, England and Argentina could come their way to win the trophy?
Group A – Uruguay are miles ahead
The Opening group will find the host country Russia, Egypt and Saudi Arabia. On paper Uruguay should have no difficulties to top the group and advance to the second round. Additionally, Russia have been playing badly the last few games and Egypt could miss Liverpool superstar Mo Salah who is still recovering for the injury suffered din the Champions League Final.
Group B – The Iberian clash
Portugal against Spain will be the first big game of the 2018 World Cup. In a group with Morocco and Iran, this game will likely determine the group winner. Cristiano Ronaldo will face his club’s teammates of Real Madrid on June 15th, the following day after the Opening match.
Group C – France as favorites
France have on paper a simple group with Australia, Peru and Denmark. The last Euro 2016 Finalists will look to improve from a quarterfinal exist in 2014 against the soon to be World Champions Germany. Nonetheless, Denmark are a solid squad and beat France in the past (ie 2002 World Cup 2-0). After a 36 years drought Peru come back on the international stage and have been undefeated for 10+ matches. The South Americans gave many problems to the best nations in the region and will be a stronger opponent than many expect.
Group D – Argentina the mystery
Argentina will square off with Iceland, Croatia and Nigeria in a tight group. Normally the Albiceleste would be highly favorite but a lackluster qualifying round and a resounding defeat 6-1 to Spain in March have shown the limits of the defense. Will Messi & Co. exit in the first round and can they come together to reach the Final again? There are many questions surrounding Argentina as World Cup starts.
Group E – 3/3 for Brazil
Brazil should have no problem winning the group against Switzerland, Costa Rica and Serbia. It should not be surprising at all to see the Brazilians with 3 wins in the group stage. Second place is wide opened behind the 5-time World Champions.
Group F – Germany in tough group
Germany will have to play its best football and they face Mexico in Moscow for their first match. The Germans will also have to beat Sweden in order to guarantee first place. Any other results could mean facing Brazil in the round of 16 which surely the Germans would like to avoid… A team they destroyed in 2014 in route to the World Cup trophy.
Group G – England or Belgium?
Belgium versus England will be another match to not miss in the first round and will likely determine the winner of the group. With Panama and Tunisia there are no doubts the two European nations are way above competition.
Group H – Colombia can make statement
Colombia and Poland are the best two teams in the group behind Japan and Senegal. The cafeteros will try to win the group when they play Poland but regardless they will likely face England or Belgium in the Round of 16 which match is already very anticipated.
Verdict on June 14! Are you ready?
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