As the World Cup bracket narrows, the four quarterfinal matches of Russia 2018 feature some strong matchups, with plenty of potential for upsets — so bettors can expect defenses to tighten up, and should factor in the likelihood of low-scoring affairs on Friday and Saturday .
Here are five scenarios where you might find favorable betting situations capable of making even 90 minutes of scoreless football extra exciting.
1. France Wins / Under 1.5
Uruguay has allowed one goal in four games. The lone score coming in the Round of 16 in its 2-1 victory against Portugal. They play a stifling defense that frustrates opponents, making it difficult to set up any set plays or attack the zone.
They are facing an offensive juggernaut in France, who have scored seven goals in four games, including four against Argentina in the Round of 16. Kylian Mbappe and Antoine Griezmann lead a fast offense that can put relentless pressure on defenders.
Something has to give in this contest, and we believe it will be Uruguay, but only barely. This could be a scoreless draw deep into the game, before France’s offense finally wears them down and gets a goal. We like France to win and score a goal, getting +425 on the under.
2. Coutinho Scores First
While teammate Neymar gets all the attention, Coutinho has been the best asset for Brazil, and that should continue against Belgium. Besides, at Coutinho scoring first at +550, the odds are too good to pass up.
Belgium has talked about guarding Neymar, with little said about Coutinho. They may focus more on Neymar, which would leave Cotinho open. Expect the first strike to be from him, not Neymar.
3. No Corners in First 10 Minutes
We have been shying away from World Cup specials, but really like no corners in the first 10 minutes of the two Friday games at +350 for a couple of reasons. First, defenses tend to rule the first half, especially the first 10 minutes.
Secondly, Uruguay has a tough defense that should keep the game in check for most of the first half. Same with Belgium, who we think will hold back Brazil for the opening 10 minutes.
4. England 2-0 Over Sweden
Former members of Sweden have been giving England Manager Gareth Southgate plenty of bulletin board material, and this should fire up his team as they face each other on Saturday.
The most incendiary quote was from former Swedish player Hakan Mild, who questioned the team’s desire.
“It couldn’t be a better draw, they think they are so good, they are not,” Mild said. “They are spoilt children who earn a lot of money. They don’t have the desperation needed.”
England will probably score twice and at +700 is a chance for bettors to clean up.
5. Croatia Wins 1-0 / 2-0 / 2-1
There is nothing more dangerous than a team that is full of confidence, even when they shouldn’t be. Russia has been the shock of the tournament so far, and its improbable victory over Spain has done nothing to dampen that spirit.
“We knew that everything was possible,” midfielder Alexander Golovin told reporters Wednesday. “Even before the beginning of the tournament we all understood that we could reach the final, we seriously counted on this and see this as the real state of things for us now.”
Members of the Croatia team are filled with just as much confidence. The difference is they have the talent to back it up. Russia’s Cinderella story ends on Saturday. Croatia +175 to score1-0, 2-0, or 2-1, is a nice safe, still profitable wager.
