Argentina -1 +105
Argentina had their scare game last time out and I expect a more comfortable victory this time. Egypt have been good at forcing a lot of draws and both teams went to extra time last game, but I don't think park the bus football will work against Argentina who have a knack for scoring first and scoring in the first half, they have led at halftime in every match so far this world cup.
Egypt had never won a world cup game until they defeated New Zealand who were i believe the lowest ranked team in the tournament. They were almost one and done then as they needed a penalty shoot out to beat Australia, and I think for a team that has never been this far, those exertions will take their toll. The Aussies and Kiwis are not on the level of a football powerhouse like Argentina. Salah is a very good player but Messi is generational. It's the current champs vs a team that has never been this far ever. Egypt has some injury concerns as well, I just think this going to be where they hit the wall.
The midday start and heat combined with both teams off long ET games is basically the only thing that could turn this into the type of game Egypt wants (a slog). I hate taking big favorites in early start games in any sports. But I always like to take quality teams off of subpar performances. One team is just happy to be there, the other is relieved to have survived vs a plucky underdog and is not likely to overlook another one with a household name type player. Egypt has a good defense but you don't typically beat Argentina by just frustrating them and hanging on and hoping for penalties. Besides the NZ game Egypt has drawn with every team they played so far at 90 mins, I just doubt they do it again vs a real quality side, and I don't think Argentina go to extra time 2 games in a row. Especially in the heat they won't want to go that route, the coach said they were really tired after the last game. Luckily the Pharoahs also played 120 mins plus had the tension and emotions of a penalty shootout so they could be even more spent.
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