The second round of World Cup group stage fixtures are upon us and we’re back with our betting tips ahead of Friday’s games. We’ve put together a 9/1 acca from the four games and have provided our score predictions.
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Wales vs Iran
It would be easy to overlook Iran after their disappointing 6-2 defeat against England, but they very rarely get that heavily beaten. They will likely put on a much better showing against a Wales side that struggled to a 1-1 draw against USA in their opener. Gareth Bale aside, Wales lacked any real cutting edge in the final third. Unfortunately for Iran, Bale will be on the pitch, and he will likely be the difference once more.
Iran have got enough class to cause problems, and Mehdi Taremi has proven himself more than capable of finding the net. But Wales should have enough to get over the line in 90 minutes. They are dangerous from set-pieces and Bale has the x-factor.
Wales win – 2.14
Score prediction: 2-1
Qatar vs Senegal
Qatar will be eying up this fixture as potentially their only opportunity to get points on the board, but we think that’s unlikely. Based off what we saw in their 2-0 defeat against Ecuador, Senegal should pick up three points comfortably.
Senegal had periods against the Netherlands where they looked the better side – they just lacked that final ball in and around the box. They will enjoy much more possession against the hosts and will therefore benefit from a greater number of opportunities to get the ball in the box. Watford’s tricky winger Ismaila Sarr will be the key man for Senegal, and he’ll be the one most likely to pick the Qatar lock.
Senegal win – 1.63
Score prediction: 0-2
Netherlands vs Ecuador
Ecuador surprised a few with their impressive opening outing against Qatar. Granted, it’s difficult to judge them against a weak Qatar. However, if there’s one thing Ecuador have, it’s the man for the big occasion. Enner Valencia was unlucky not to open the tournament with a hat-trick, and the Fenerbahce striker looked sharp. He will put himself about, but should find chances harder to come by against the likes of Virgil van Dijk and Matthijs de Ligt.
Netherlands were a long way from their best in a 2-0 win over Senegal, needing two late goals to secure them the points. They should go from strength to strength and the return of Memphis Depay will provide a huge boost. It could be another tight affair.
Netherlands win – 1.80
Score prediction: 2-1
England vs USA
This is a cracking little tie to finish the day. England have by far the superior squad, but the USA will be up for this one. Their dynamic forward line could cause problems if England commit too many bodies forward, and Gareth Southgate’s side were far from defensively sound against Iran. The likes of Christian Pulisic and Timothy Weah could have some joy in behind Kieran Trippier and Luke Shaw.
For all of USA’s threat going forward, they look light at the back. England have a huge number of attacking options to choose from and they will likely carve out opportunities sooner or later. It won’t be easy, but the Three Lions should make it six points from six.
England win – 1.57
Score prediction: 2-1
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