World Cup 26 Previews

Norway v Senegal

Norway look to build on an emphatic win in their opening group game as they take on a Senegal side who face an early elimination if they suffer a second defeat at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

Match News and Current Form
Until last week, Norway hadn't played at a World Cup for 28 years, but a 4-1 demolition of Iraq in their opening group game suggests they are a force to be reckoned with. The Scandinavian outfit, who breezed through qualifying by winning each of their eight matches, are now on a run of 11 successive victories in competitive internationals, scoring a whopping 50 goals in the process! Ståle Solbakken’s men now look to make history by winning two matches at a major tournament for the first time, which would secure a spot in the knockout stages.

Senegal faced a tough assignment in their opening group game, as they were beaten 3-1 by two-time winners France. That means Pape Thiaw’s men are on a three-match winless streak (D1, L2) for the first time since January 2023, as well as a run of three successive World Cup defeats to European nations. Should they lose here, hopes of reaching the last 32 would be hanging by a thread, but the Lions of Teranga haven't been defeated by a team currently below them in the FIFA rankings in a competitive game since January 2024.

Head-to-Head History
These two nations have met on one previous occasion, with Senegal winning a friendly 2-1 back in 2006.

Hot Stats and Streaks
Thirteen of Norway’s last 14 competitive internationals produced over 2.5 goals.

Norway have netted 12 of their last 14 goals in competitive games after half-time.

Senegal haven't kept a clean sheet in any of their last 12 World Cup outings, the second longest run of any team.

Three of Senegal’s last four fixtures featured over 3.5 goals.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Erling Haaland has scored in 11 successive competitive appearances for Norway, striking 22 during that period, including netting at least twice in each of the last five. With his goal against France, Senegal’s Ibrahim Mbaye became the youngest ever African scorer in World Cup history, meaning he now also has a chance to become the first teenager to score in each of his first two World Cup appearances.

Neither team have any fresh injury worries.

Betting Analysis
Norway are in fine form and there seems to be plenty of action when these two teams play, so Norway to win and over 2.5 goals might be worth a go.

Author: Matt Jones

Jordan v Algeria

Jordan’s maiden voyage at the FIFA World Cup is on the brink of ending at the earliest hurdle as they meet an Algeria side also seeking their first points in California.

Match News and Current Form
Jordan’s first-ever World Cup campaign opened with a 3-1 defeat to Austria, leaving them playing catch-up if they’re to mark the occasion with an unlikely progression into the knockouts. Now winless in six outings (D2, L4), Jordan know another defeat here could confirm their elimination, and it’s easy to see why things have been going wrong of late for a side who’ve conceded 2+ goals in all six winless outings. With Argentina providing the opposition on matchday three, the prospect of their debut World Cup campaign ending pointless is now a very real prospect for Jordan.

After succumbing to a Lionel Messi hat-trick in the opening round to suffer their joint-heaviest World Cup defeat, Algeria now seek to avoid losing their opening two games at a World Cup for the first time. That stat doesn’t sound as encouraging when considering that the two-time African champions have won just one of their last 11 World Cup matches (D3, L7), but they can at least cling to the fact that victory came against another AFC side in South Korea back in 2014. That edition remains the only time Algeria have ever progressed beyond the group stages at a World Cup, but having won seven of their nine matches prior to their matchday one defeat (D1, L1), the Algerians ought to fancy their chances of changing that this year.

Head-to-Head History
The H2H record is perfectly split between the nations (W1, D1, L1), although this is their first encounter since a 1-1 draw in a 2004 friendly.

Hot Stats and Streaks
Five of Jordan’s last six matches saw both teams score and over 2.5 goals.

None of Jordan’s last seven games produced a goalless second half.

Algeria have kept only two clean sheets inside 90 minutes in their 14 games at the World Cup.

Just one of Algeria’s last ten matches saw both teams score.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Jordan’s Noor Al Rawabdeh assisted his nation’s sole goal against Austria and managed four goal contributions in 12 World Cup qualifiers (G2, A2). Four of Algeria’s seven shots on target in the opening round were either created (1) or taken (3) by Farès Chaïbi, who also managed a team-high eight shots on target at the latest Africa Cup of Nations.

Jordan’s Abdallah Nasib was substituted with an injury in their opener, while Algeria have a largely unaffected squad.

Betting Analysis
With both sides desperate to get some points on the board, backing an Algeria win and both teams to score could provide value.

Author: Matthew Billon

Portugal v Uzbekistan

A true David vs Goliath clash at the NRG Stadium in Houston sees FIFA World Cup debutants Uzbekistan clash with a Portugal side fancied by many to go the distance this summer.

Match News and Current Form
Touted as one of the pre-tournament favourites, much was expected of Portugal in this tournament, but their opener was a little anticlimactic as they were held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo. The Portuguese are now playing catch-up as far as winning the group goes, and those hopes could be completely extinguished on matchday two if they fail to win, although only once in history have they ever failed to win their opening two matches at a World Cup. The reigning UEFA Nations League champions at least have some solid form to fall back on, as they’ve only lost one of their last 14 internationals (W10, D3), but winning only one of their last four matches at World Cup finals (D1, L2) is sure to keep feet firmly on the floor.

Uzbekistan’s history-making day on matchday one ended unceremoniously as they were beaten 3-1 by Colombia. The extended format of this season’s competition means that the Uzbeks are still in with a shout of progressing, but that will require them to snap a three-game losing streak that is threatening to see them bow out of the World Cup with a whimper. Rediscovering the kind of form which saw them lose just one of their 18 matches prior (W12, D5) would be a great way to start, and they can take some encouragement into this game after recording the highest xG tally of an Asian side on their World Cup debut in their match against Colombia (1.16) since Kuwait in 1982.

Head-to-Head History
These two sides have never met before, and despite their heavy favouritism, Portugal have won neither of their last two games against nations from the AFC confederation (D1, L1).

Hot Stats and Streaks
Portugal have only scored more than twice in one of their last nine matches.

Nine of Portugal’s last 12 World Cup matches saw both teams score.

Four of Uzbekistan’s last five matches saw a goal scored in second-half stoppage time.

Uzbekistan manager Fabio Cannavaro won all three of his matches against Portugal as a player.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Portugal’s Pedro Neto seems to have found his feet in the final third, either scoring or assisting in four of his last five appearances for club or country (G1, A3). Abbosbek Fayzullaev was the scorer of Uzbekistan’s famous first-ever World Cup goal, but another may not be a good omen given only one of his last five at international level came in a winning cause (D1, L2).

Rúben Dias is expected to return for Portugal here, but fellow defender Tomás Araújo could miss out. Uzbekistan’s Rustamjon Ashurmatov was forced off with an injury in their opening match.

Betting Analysis
Uzbekistan haven’t been beaten convincingly for quite some time, and after Portugal’s poor display on matchday one, backing Portugal to win by exactly a one-goal margin could be a smart approach.

Author: Chris Wilson

England v Ghana

England and Ghana aim to book their place in the World Cup knockouts at the earliest opportunity by winning this Group L clash in Boston.

Match News and Current Form
England produced one of the most eye-catching performances of the World Cup to beat Croatia 4-2 in their opening game thanks to a second-half rally. Giving up two goals before half-time was certainly a concern and the Three Lions might be wary given the previous time they’d conceded more than once was against African opponents en route to a 3-1 defeat against Senegal last June. But with Harry Kane now level with Gary Lineker’s English record of World Cup goals (ten), and Thomas Tuchel’s side losing just one of their last 11 fixtures (W9, D1), they look to have the firepower to overcome any potential defensive problems.

Ghana also got underway with a win but were far less convincing as they struck late to beat Panama 1-0 in their opener and end a six-match winless run (D1, L5). The Black Stars will hope finally getting a victory under their belts can drive them to better things, although history suggests they’re up against it as they’ve only once before won two group games in one World Cup. Losing each of their last three fixtures against sides ranked inside FIFA’s top 20 while conceding exactly twice is another ominous omen conspiring against them as they take on #4-ranked England.

Head-to-Head History
The only previous H2H produced a 1-1 draw in 2011 and England are unbeaten in eight World Cup fixtures against African opponents (W5, D3). Ghana have lost four of their seven World Cup encounters with European sides (W2, D1).

Hot Stats and Streaks
England won at least eight corners in each of their last four internationals.

Nine of England’s last 11 fixtures saw the half-time result replicated at full-time.

Ghana haven’t scored before half-time in any of their last eight games.

Eight of Ghana’s last ten fixtures saw more goals after half-time than before.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Jude Bellingham netted England’s third goal against Croatia and if the 22-year-old features here he will become the youngest player to reach 50 caps for the Three Lions - England have only lost one of his seven goalscoring outings for them (W5, D1). The matchwinner against Panama, Caleb Yirenkyi has scored after the hour mark in Ghana’s last two games.

Declan Rice reported discomfort following the Croatia game, while Ghana may be without goalkeeper Lawrence Ati Zigi after he picked up an injury against Panama.

Betting Analysis
England’s recent games producing a high number of set pieces makes over 9.5 corners appealing.

Author: John Pennington

Panama v Croatia

The Toronto Stadium in Ontario, Canada will host Panama and Croatia with both Group L teams searching for a badly needed three points after losing on matchday one.

Match News and Current Form
After losing all three of their games at the 2018 tournament, Panama were on track to pick up their first point at a World Cup finals during their opening fixture of this tournament against Ghana. Despite enjoying more possession, more shots and a vastly superior FIFA ranking, they conceded in the 95th minute to go down 1-0. Rank no. 34 Panama have now registered just two wins from their last eight matches (D3, L3), and given they are due to face highly-rated England in their final group stage game, securing a victory in this match could be crucial for Thomas Christiansen’s side if they are to advance to the knockout stages.

Croatia had a solid buildup to this tournament with an unbeaten run between June 2025 and March 2026 (W8, D1), but a 4-2 loss to England on matchday one was their third defeat from their last four matches (W1). The 2018 runners-up and 2022 semi-finalists twice levelled before half-time in their opening game, only to be overrun in the second half with goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic’s seven saves sparing them from an embarrassing scoreline. The Vatreni won just one of their three group stage fixtures (D2) in 2022 before going deep in that tournament, so there’s no reason to panic yet as this fixture presents them with an opportunity to slowly build their way into the competition.

Head-to-Head History
This will be the inaugural meeting between the sides, with Croatia winning seven of their nine H2Hs against CONCACAF nations. Panama were beaten 3-0 and 6-1 by Belgium and England in their two World Cup matches against UEFA countries.

Hot Stats and Streaks
Panama failed to keep a clean sheet in each of their last eight games.

Panama have not received a first-half yellow card in any of their last three matches.

Croatia have drawn only one of their last 15 fixtures (W10, D4).

Six of Croatia’s last seven games saw both teams score.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Panama midfielder Carlos Harvey has scored or been booked from the 83rd minute onwards in two of his last three international starts. Following an assist in both of Croatia’s last two games, Ivan Perišic has six goal contributions across his last five appearances for club or country (G2, A4).

Adalberto Carrasquilla is back in training for Panama, but appears unlikely to start, while Croatia have no availability issues.

Betting Analysis
With Croatia’s recent defensive record far from impressive, backing a Croatia win with both teams to score looks like a solid double.

Author: Tom Penn

Colombia v D.R. Congo

As the lone Group K winners on matchday one, Colombia will be looking to secure their spot in the Round of 32 when they face DR Congo at Guadalajara Stadium in Mexico.

Match News and Current Form
Colombia opened their 2026 FIFA World Cup account in fine fashion with a 3-1 win over Uzbekistan, and a victory here would see La Tri advance to the knockout stages in a third successive World Cup appearance. It would be a fine feat for a nation that were knocked out at the group stage in three of their first four World Cup finals, with their improvement driven largely by winning six of their last seven group stage matches (L1). Their opening round win continued some fine form carried into the tournament, with Néstor Lorenzo’s men now having lost only two of their last 14 matches (W8, D4).

DR Congo found themselves trailing early against Portugal in their World Cup opener, but found the spirit to equalise just before half-time and hold onto a 1-1 draw. That was their first point and first goal in a World Cup match, having lost all three matches without scoring in their lone appearance in 1974 as Zaire. Getting something from this match would be huge for the Leopards, who face Uzbekistan in the final round of the group stages, and with only two losses in their last 14 matches proving they have been a tough side to beat (W9, D3), coach Sébastien Desabre might be plotting something special.

Head-to-Head History
This will be the inaugural H2H. Colombia won each of their last three World Cup matches against African opposition, whilst DR Congo lost 2-1 to Chile earlier this month in their last meeting with a South American team.

Hot Stats and Streaks
Four of Colombia’s last five matches saw both teams score.

Colombia scored in each of their last ten World Cup matches, the joint-longest current run of any side after matchday one.

Just two of DR Congo’s last 14 matches produced over 2.5 goals.

The half-time result was replicated at the end of regulation time in ten of DR Congo’s last 11 matches.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Jaminton Campaz rounded off the scoring for Colombia against Uzbekistan, meaning both his international goals and his last four club goals all came after half-time. DR Congo’s Yoane Wissa proved his worth to the national team once again after his equaliser against Portugal meant he’s lost just once in nine scoring appearances for his country (W4, D4).

Both teams seem to have come through their first games unscathed.

Betting Analysis
The South Americans looked extremely polished against Uzbekistan, making Colombia to win with over 1.5 goals an enticing option.

Author: Peter Stavrinou

Odds

Round 3 ''I Think''

Best of Luck all.

Bosnia & Herzegovina v Qatar

The stakes are high on matchday three of Group B, as both Bosnia and Herzegovina and Qatar know that any slip up here in Seattle will end their World Cup campaign at the first hurdle.

Match News and Current Form
Finishing as one of the best third-placed finishers is the realistic ceiling of both of these sides’ ambitions, and Bosnia only have themselves to blame on that front after being thumped 4-1 by Switzerland in the last round. A top-two finish remains mathematically possible for Bosnia, but they’d need Canada to lose heavily in the group’s other game and also win handsomely here, something which seems unlikely having won none of their last six matches inside 90 minutes (D6, L1). Snapping that here would at least secure a third-place finish, allowing them to watch on as they wait to see if that’s enough to progress, but one win from eight competitive games inside 90 minutes (D5, L2) is a negative omen they’ll have to overcome if they’re to do so.

Qatar’s predicament almost perfectly mirrors Bosnia’s, as they too need all three points to have any chance of progressing as a best third-placed finisher. Like their opponents, they too can mathematically finish in the top two, but they need a heavy Switzerland defeat and a big victory of their own, which owes largely to the 6-0 hammering they endured against Canada on matchday two after suffering two red cards. Scoring a paltry three goals in their last eight internationals, none of which they won (D3, L5), highlights the size of the task at hand here to even sneak into third, and given the last four of those defeats came without reply, Qatar could well bow out with a whimper here.

Head-to-Head History
Qatar have edged the all-time H2H stakes (W1, D1), but Bosnia’s only prior World Cup win did come against Asian opponents when they beat Iran back in 2014.

Hot Stats and Streaks
Bosnia have recorded 3+ shots on target in 13 of their last 15 competitive matches.

Ten of Bosnia’s last 11 games saw both teams score.

Five of Qatar’s last seven games featured under 2.5 goals.

Qatar’s last five matches produced five red cards.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Ermin Mahmic’s consolation against Switzerland opened his account for Bosnia and was his fifth goal from his last seven for club or country to arrive after half-time. The last Qatar player to score for the national team was Ahmed Alaaeldin way back in December and throwing him in from the off could be their last shot at a top-two finish given his two goals in qualifying came in Qatar wins by a 4+ goal margin!

Bosnia will be without the suspended Tarik Muharemovic, a fate that also befalls Qatar duo Homam Al Amin and Assim Madibo.

Betting Analysis
Given both sides’ desperate need for a victory, backing both teams to score seems a solid approach.

Author: Chris Wilson

Switzerland v Canada

Switzerland and FIFA World Cup co-hosts Canada clash in Vancouver in Group B’s final round of fixtures, with both nations already having one foot in the knockout stages.

Match News and Current Form
Switzerland bounced back from their disappointing 1-1 draw against Qatar on matchday one with a thumping 4-1 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina last time out, netting four goals in a World Cup game for the first time since 1994. Four appears to be the magic number for Murat Yakin’s side, who are chasing a fourth consecutive qualification for the World Cup knockout stages and currently sit second on four points, which is likely to be enough to see them through regardless of what happens here, while it will even be enough for a top-two finish barring a catastrophic collapse. Having now lost just two of their last 18 group stage games at major tournaments (W8, D8), that seems unlikely, and that impressive record should spur them on as they go in pursuit of the win they need to claim top spot.

Canada have never reached the knockout stages of a World Cup before, but are now very well-placed to do so, sitting pretty at the top of the group with four points having followed up their 1-1 draw against Bosnia with a 6-0 demolition job on Qatar. After recording a clean sheet at a World Cup for the first time and becoming the first CONCACAF nation to score 5+ goals in a game at the greatest tournament of all, the Canucks are now unbeaten in ten matches (W4, D6). Jesse Marsch’s side will finish in first spot if they avoid defeat here, and that would bring the potential of two knockout games in familiar home territory in Vancouver.

Head-to-Head History
Canada won the pair’s only previous meeting 3-1, a friendly in which current Switzerland manager Yakin played in back in May 2002.

Hot Stats and Streaks
Seven of Switzerland’s last eight games saw both teams score.

Switzerland conceded exactly once in six of their last eight matches.

Ten of Canada’s last 12 games produced under 2.5 goals.

Six of Canada’s last seven matches saw a goal scored on or beyond the hour mark.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Johan Manzambi came off the bench to score twice for Switzerland on matchday two, with four of his five international goals scored after the 70th minute. Nathan Saliba has registered four goal involvements to date for Canada (G3, A1) after scoring and assisting against Qatar, with three of those coming in the second half.

Switzerland may remain without defender Miro Muheim through a calf issue. Canada will carry out a late fitness check on Alfie Jones, but Ismaël Koné saw his tournament ended prematurely by a horror tackle against Qatar.

Betting Analysis
Given neither side need to force the issue here, a half-time draw looks a smart choice.

Author: Ben Olawumi

Morocco v Haiti

Top spot in Group C is potentially up for grabs in Atlanta if Morocco can pile on the goals against World Cup strugglers Haiti, who were the first team to be eliminated from the tournament.

Match News and Current Form
Morocco’s 1-1 draw with Brazil on matchday one could see the top of Group C decided by goal difference if both nations win their final group stage games, meaning that Morocco can't afford to become too complacent or relaxed in their approach to this fixture. They firstly need to win this fixture to guarantee a top-two finish and set up a meeting with the runner-up in Group F, and Morocco have every reason to be confident of doing so now that they are on an almost perfect 31-game unbeaten run (W26, D5) after seeing off Scotland 1-0 in their last group game, meaning they have now won three of their last four World Cup group stage fixtures (D1).

Haiti won admirers but ultimately no points when they were outclassed 3-0 by Brazil on matchday two, keeping the powerhouses scoreless after half-time to avoid a humiliating result. For head coach Sébastien Migné, it showed that Haiti "deserved to be at the World Cup” for the first time in 52 years, even though the players fell well short of earning the country their maiden World Cup point. A repeat result here would see them equal El Salvador’s unwanted record of the most World Cup games played with a 100% loss rate (six), whilst they certainly won’t want to join El Salvador (1970) and Canada (1986) as the only CONCACAF nations to lose every group stage game without scoring at a single World Cup finals.

Head-to-Head History
This will be the inaugural H2H. Morocco’s only World Cup clash with a CONCACAF nation was a 2-1 group stage win over Canada in 2022, whilst Haiti’s only game against an African country in the last decade was a 1-0 loss to Tunisia in March.

Hot Stats and Streaks
Morocco kept a clean sheet in nine of their last ten wins (including 1 x penalty shootout victory after a 0-0 draw).

Morocco haven't trailed at half-time since their last defeat (HT: W17, D14).

Haiti were kept scoreless in four of their last five losses.

Nine of the last ten goals conceded by Haiti in World Cup finals or qualification matches came before half-time.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Ismael Saibari will be attempting to become the first African player to score in all three group stage games at a World Cup after delivering his team’s only two strikes. Haiti’s Wilson Isidor could be a candidate to strike late having netted seven of his last nine goals for club or country after the hour mark.

Morocco are missing Abde Ezzalzouli and Nayef Aguerd, whilst Haiti’s only absentee is Leverton Pierre.

Betting Analysis
The Moroccans will be chasing a goal difference boost, so expect Morocco to win by a 3+ goal margin.

Author: Aaron Murphy

Scotland v Brazil

A point in Miami will almost certainly assure Scotland of a place in the knockout stages of the World Cup, but that will be tough to achieve against a Brazil side they possess a woeful H2H record against.

Match News and Current Form
Conceding inside 90 seconds proved the undoing of Scotland as they were beaten 1-0 by Morocco in their second group game. A valiant second-half display failed to gloss over their attacking woes, as the Scots failed to register a single shot on target in that game and have managed just five across their last five outings at major tournaments. Those issues will be cast aside if they can progress beyond the group stage at a major competition for the first time ever, which could happen even if they lose here, and that looks a likely outcome as Scotland are winless in their eight games against South American sides at the World Cup (D2, L6), conceding 2.5 goals per game on average.

After a concerning performance in their opener, Brazil turned on the style to cruise to a 3-0 win over Haiti, netting all three goals before half-time. The Seleção are still far from their sparkling best, as their current average of ten shots per game is their lowest at a single edition of the World Cup since 1966! Carlo Ancelotti’s men will likely win Group C with a victory here despite that, but Brazil’s last three defeats in the initial group stage at the finals have come on matchday three, one of which came in 2022 when they were beaten by Cameroon!

Head-to-Head History
Brazil are unbeaten across the prior four World Cup H2Hs (W3, D1), winning the last three in a row by a 7-2 combined scoreline. Scotland’s winless return across ten H2Hs (D2, L8) is the most they’ve faced another international side without ever winning, while Brazil have faced no side more often without losing.

Hot Stats and Streaks
Scotland have scored just nine goals across their last 13 World Cup matches.

Just one of Scotland’s last six games saw both teams score.

Four of Brazil’s last five competitive wins were accompanied by a clean sheet.

Both of Brazil’s matches at this World Cup saw exactly eight corners taken.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Scott McTominay has just one goal in eight major tournament appearances, and Scotland will be desperate for their talisman to come good here given that his last five international goal involvements came in wins (G4, A1). Matheus Cunha netted Brazil’s first two goals against Haiti, taking his goal tally to five across his last six starts for club and country.

Scott McKenna and Aaron Hickey are doubtful for Scotland. Neymar has returned to Brazil training, but Raphinha is likely to be out with an injury he picked up against Haiti.

Betting Analysis
A Brazil win and under 2.5 goals combination looks a solid option here given Scotland’s attacking struggles at the World Cup.

Author: Ryan Fisher

Czech Republic v Mexico

Czech Republic know that only a victory will likely see them progress from Group A, as they take on already-qualified co-hosts Mexico at the daunting Estadio Azteca.

Match News and Current Form
It’s now or never for the Czech Republic, who after defeat to South Korea and conceding late to draw with South Africa, come into matchday three knowing that only a win will likely suffice in their quest to reach the knockout stages. Not since 1982 have the Czechs failed to win any of their three group stage outings in the competition, and to avoid that fate here they need to find their shooting boots which saw them net 2+ goals in each of their final five games before the finals. If they manage that, a first knockout round appearance at the World Cup since 1990 could lie in wait.

The job is already done for co-hosts Mexico, as they became the first side at this tournament to progress from the group stage thanks to impressive wins over South Africa and South Korea. Their success so far has been built on defensive solidity, not conceding a goal in either outing, meaning that they now have the chance to keep three successive World Cup clean sheets for the first time since 1986 when they last hosted the World Cup. Javier Aguirre’s men can make a bit of history here by winning their three World Cup group stage matches for the very first time, which would also continue an eight-match unbeaten run at the Estadio Azteca in the competition in the process (W6, D2).

Head-to-Head History
Mexico have faced the Czech Republic once before at the World Cup, winning 3-1 back in 1962, though they lost their last meeting 2-1 in 2000.

Hot Stats and Streaks
Czech Republic's last six games saw both teams score.

Czech Republic have won each of their last three World Cup matches against CONCACAF nations, netting 12 goals in total.

Just one of Mexico’s last seven World Cup matches saw both teams score.

Mexico have kept two clean sheets across their last three World Cup games against European opponents, as many as their prior 13 matches combined.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Vladimír Coufal has three goal contributions across his last five competitive internationals (G1, A2), including an assist against South Korea in their group stage opener. Julián Quiñones netted Mexico’s first goal of this World Cup, and has ten direct goal contributions in his last nine games for club and country (G8, A2).

David Jurásek is an injury concern for Czech Republic, while Mexico's César Montes returns following suspension.

Betting Analysis
Czech Republic need a result here and should attack from the off, though Mexico could hurt them on the break so backing the draw seems enticing.

Author: Nathan Evans

South Africa v South Korea

South Africa must secure a win on matchday three of Group A at the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Estadio Monterrey to have a strong chance of progressing to the last 32, while South Korea need just a draw to finish second in the group.

Match News and Current Form
South Africa extended their perfect World Cup penalty-conversion record to three from three on matchday two against Czech Republic, with an 83rd-minute effort earning a 1-1 draw. Bafana Bafana therefore remain firmly in the race for the knockout phase, a stage that they have never reached before at this tournament. Hugo Broos’ men will be aiming to improve on their recent form though, as they have now not won in their last seven internationals (D4, L3). Getting stronger defensively could be their first step towards ending that winless run, as South Africa have kept just one clean sheet in their last 11 World Cup games.

South Korea attempted just nine shots against Mexico despite having 58% possession, losing 1-0 on matchday two. The Taegeuk Warriors are still in a strong position to qualify for the knockout phase at successive World Cups for the first time ever, thanks to a 2-1 comeback win over Czech Republic on matchday one. A result either way looks likely, as Hong Myung-bo’s men haven't drawn any of their last ten games (W6, L4). History provides comfort though that they can extend that run with a victory, as South Korea have won each of their last two matchday three encounters at World Cup finals.

Head-to-Head History
This will be the first-ever H2H, but South Korea may be apprehensive, given that they have won only one of their four World Cup matches against African nations (D1, L2), with those games producing an average of 4.5 goals.

Hot Stats and Streaks
Four of South Africa’s last six matches produced exactly two goals.

South Africa scored exactly twice in each of their three previous matchday-three World Cup games.

Only one of South Korea’s last ten matches saw both teams score.

South Korea scored exactly twice in four of their last six World Cup group stage games.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
A goal from Oswin Appollis here could be good news for South Africa, as seven of his eight international strikes have arrived in six victories. Son Heung-min will look to make his 13th World Cup appearance a successful one, much like the nine of his last 11 goals for South Korea coming in seven wins.

South Africa’s last goalscorer Teboho Mokoena is suspended, but Yaya Sithole is set to return to action after serving a ban. South Korea seemingly have no fresh absentees.

Betting Analysis
Both nations still have a lot to play for, making both teams to score a sensible selection here.

Author: Sridhar Bhamidi

Curacao v Ivory Coast

Curaçao will be looking to build on their first-ever FIFA World Cup point when they head to Philadelphia to take on Ivory Coast, who are looking to bounce back from an agonising defeat.

Match News and Current Form
Curaçao had their backs against the wall against Ecuador, facing 27 shots, but an inspired performance from goalkeeper Eloy Room helped them to secure a history-making 0-0 draw. They’re therefore still in contention to become the lowest-ranked country ever to progress to the knockout phase of a World Cup, but will likely need to win this game to make that happen. The Blue Wave have now won just one of their last seven matches (D2, L4), but have scored in four of their last five, even if three of those games ended in defeats by 3+ goal margins.

Ivory Coast are also looking to reach the knockout phase of a World Cup for the first time, but missed out on the chance to secure their place on matchday two when they squandered the lead to lose 2-1 to Germany, conceding decisively in the 94th minute. They’re big favourites to progress here by winning two games at the same edition of the World Cup for the first time, but expectation could weigh heavily on a side who’ve seen their last four internationals decided by a one-goal margin. The Elephants at least appear likely to succeed where Ecuador failed, as they’ve scored in the highest percentage of their World Cup games among nations who have played at least three (91% - 10/11).

Head-to-Head History
This will be Curaçao’s first-ever match against an African country, and Ivory Coast’s first World Cup meeting with a CONCACAF nation.

Hot Stats and Streaks
Four of Curaçao’s last five games featured over 3.5 goals.

Curaçao conceded 11 of their last 15 goals after half-time.

Ivory Coast’s last five World Cup matches were each decided by exactly a one-goal margin.

Six of Ivory Coast’s last seven goals at the World Cup came after half-time.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Curaçao’s Room made 15 saves against Ecuador - the most by a goalkeeper in normal time of a World Cup match since records began! Looking to find a way past him will likely be Ivory Coast captain Franck Kessié, who opened the scoring against Germany before seeing his 14-game unbeaten run when scoring for his country come to an end.

Curaçao’s Jürgen Locadia went off injured late against Ecuador, as did Ivory Coast defender Wilfried Singo against Germany.

Betting Analysis
Given the Elephants’ superior pedigree and Curaçao’s leaky defence after half-time, Ivory Coast to win and score after half-time looks a solid option.

Author: Alex Bowmer

Ecuador v Germany

Ecuador and Germany take to the New York New Jersey Stadium pitch with the South Americans fighting for a place in the knockout phase against the already-qualified Europeans.

Match News and Current Form
Having entered the FIFA World Cup with a 19-game unbeaten streak to their name (W8, D11), Ecuador have let themselves down at this year’s tournament so far, losing 1-0 to Ivory Coast and drawing 0-0 with Curaçao. La Tri therefore need a result here if they are to stand any chance of advancing from Group E, but being winless in their last nine matches against European countries indicates that they are facing an uphill battle (D5, L4). Getting on the scoresheet will be head coach Sebastián Beccacece’s first priority, as their toothless attack could see them become just the second CONMEBOL team to go an entire World Cup without finding the net, after Bolivia in both 1930 and 1950.

Germany followed up their 7-1 demolition of Curaçao by finding themselves 1-0 down against Ivory Coast at half-time, before an inspired second-half performance saw them win 2-1 courtesy of a 94th-minute winner. That result saw the 2014 world champions advance to the knockout phase after failing to do so in both 2018 and 2022, and the four-time winners will now be looking to win all their games in a World Cup group stage for the fourth time in their illustrious history. Die Mannschaft will be chasing another milestone here, as victory would see them win a 12th consecutive match, equalling their longest-ever such run between May 1979 and June 1980, when they competed as West Germany.

Head-to-Head History
Germany have won both previous H2Hs - 3-0 in the group stage of the 2006 World Cup and 4-2 in a friendly in May 2013.

Hot Stats and Streaks
Thirteen of Ecuador's last 15 matches featured under 2.5 goals.

The half-time result was replicated at full-time in five of Ecuador’s last six games.

Germany are unbeaten in their ten World Cup group-stage matches against South American countries (W7, D3).

Five of Germany’s last six games saw both teams score.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Enner Valencia could become Ecuador's record cap-holder at the World Cup here, and a goal marking the occasion could be priceless, as he has not been on the losing side in any of his last 13 international scoring appearances (W9, D4). Deniz Undav got a match-winning brace against Ivory Coast, which has contributed to his last seven goal involvements for Germany all coming after half-time (G4, A3).

Ecuador do not seem to have any fresh absentees, while Germany’s Nico Schlotterbeck suffered an injury against Ivory Coast.

Betting Analysis
Given Germany have already advanced and Ecuador’s attacking struggles, betting on under 2.5 goals here seems smart.

Author: Peter Stavrinou

Japan v Sweden

In-form Asian heavyweights Japan take on a Sweden side reeling from a heavy defeat last time out when they clash in Texas in this Group F finale.

Match News and Current Form
Japan followed their impressive opening 2-2 draw against the Netherlands with a dominant 4-0 win over Tunisia, and are now well-placed in their quest to reach the knockout stages at the World Cup for the third edition in a row. Hajime Moriyasu’s side occupy second spot in the group ahead of this final round of fixtures and know that simply avoiding defeat will secure a top-two finish, while they could still even win the group. A four-match unbeaten run in World Cup games (W2, D2) suggests they’re good value to qualify for the next stage, and in turn become just the second AFC nation to achieve a run of five World Cup games unbeaten after South Korea’s six-match run between 1998 and 2002.

Sweden haven’t failed to make it past the group stage in their last four World Cup campaigns, and got off to a flyer in this edition as they opened up with a 5-1 victory over Tunisia, but expectations were tempered when they were hammered by the same scoreline against the Netherlands on matchday two. Head coach Graham Potter insisted his side would learn from that harrowing experience, and they’ll have to put those learnings into action quickly as only three points here will be enough to 100% secure their knockout berth. A point should be enough to see them progress as a best third-place finisher, but having never lost against Asian opposition at the World Cup (W2, D1), they’ll almost certainly be eyeing up second place.

Head-to-Head History
Sweden are unbeaten in the last four H2Hs, all four of which came in friendlies, with the last coming in 2002. However, Japan are unbeaten in their last four matches against European opposition at the World Cup (W2, D2 - excluding penalty shootouts).

Hot Stats and Streaks
Japan have kept a clean sheet in six of their last seven games.

Japan are yet to receive a yellow card in the tournament.

Sweden’s last six games all produced over 3.5 goals.

Sweden’s last eight matches saw both teams score.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Crystal Palace’s Daichi Kamada has scored in both of Japan’s group games so far, with ten of his 14 international goals netted in the first half. Premier League rival Anthony Elanga scored for Sweden on matchday two, with four of his seven international goals to date coming after the 75th minute.

Japan will have to check on Takefusa Kubo’s knee injury, with Shuto Machino expected to be available following illness. Sweden appear to boast a clean bill of health.

Betting Analysis
Japan could take advantage late on if Sweden try to force the issue, so Draw/Japan in the half-time/full-time market may be a good choice here.

Author: Ben Olawumi

Tunisia v Netherlands

Tunisia take on free-scoring Group F leaders the Netherlands in Kansas City with nothing except pride to play for, having already been eliminated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Match News and Current Form
Tunisia failed to register a shot on target while losing 4-0 to Japan, confirming their elimination and becoming just the fourth team to lose two games in one World Cup tournament by 4+ goals, and the first since Greece in 1994. No side has ever lost three by such a margin before in one edition, but damage limitation might be uppermost in head coach Hervé Renard’s mind given that the Eagles of Carthage have lost their last four fixtures and only won one of their last nine (D2, L6). As they also possess a win rate of just 15% in World Cup matches (W3, D5, L12), a turnaround here looks unlikely.

The Netherlands are chasing a victory to give them the best chance of topping the group, although their commanding 5-1 triumph over Sweden all but secured their place in the knockouts and extended their unbeaten run to 14 consecutive World Cup games (W9, D5 - excluding penalty shootout losses). That’s the longest sequence any side has ever managed and the Oranje have been ruthlessly efficient at this tournament by converting seven (35%) of their 20 shots, their best rate at any World Cup since 1966. If there’s a guy in the Dutch armour, then perhaps conceding in each of their last six games (W3, D2, L1) will give head coach Ronald Koeman something to think about as he tries to guide them towards the latter stages.

Head-to-Head History
The Netherlands are unbeaten in three previous H2Hs (W1, D2) and have never lost a World Cup game against an African team (W4, D1). Tunisia have won only one of their 13 World Cup meetings with European nations (D4, L8).

Hot Stats and Streaks
Six of Tunisia’s last seven games saw the half-time result replicated at full-time.

Three of Tunisia’s last four goals arrived before half-time, two of them in the 43rd minute.

The Netherlands kept a first-half clean sheet in each of their last four matches.

The Netherlands' last four games featured scoring after the 85th minute.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
No player in Tunisia’s squad has scored more international goals than Ali Abdi (seven), with six of those strikes contributing to victories (L1). Netherlands’ Cody Gakpo now has six goal contributions in seven World Cup appearances (G5, A1), and 13 of his last 14 goals for club and country arrived after half-time.

Tunisia reported no injury concerns following their defeat to Japan, but Quinten Timber missed the Netherlands’ win over Sweden due to concussion.

Betting Analysis
With the Dutch scoring for fun and Tunisia in disarray, backing over 3.5 goals holds plenty of appeal.

Author: John Pennington

Paraguay v Australia

Second place in Group D is at stake when Paraguay meet Australia in Santa Clara on the final group stage matchday of the 2026 World Cup.

Match News and Current Form
First and fourth place in Group D have already been filled by the USA and Turkey with one game to spare, making this a shootout for second to face the Group G runners-up in the last 32. Paraguay have an opportunity to advance to the knockout stage, just as they did during their last appearance at the finals in 2010, but potentially by way of securing two group stage wins at a single World Cup for the first time in their ninth attempt overall. History suggests they’re more than capable of doing just that as Paraguay haven't lost any of their last six matchday three fixtures in the World Cup group stage (W3, D3).

Australia were outclassed by group winners USA when they lost 2-0 last time out, a result that also ended a ten-game unbeaten competitive run stretching back to 2024 (W6, D4). The Socceroos managed just two shots on target in that defeat, symptomatic of attacking issues that have seen them net multiple goals in only two of their last ten matches, five of which ended in defeat (W4, D1). Head coach Tony Popovic is therefore under pressure to secure a result that secures successive progressions past the World Cup group stage for the first time ever, but Australia have never beaten a CONMEBOL nation at the finals (D1, L4)!

Head-to-Head History
This will be the first-ever World Cup H2H, and the first meeting since Australia won a friendly 1-0 in 2010 to make it five games without defeat against Paraguay (W2, D3).

Hot Stats and Streaks
Only two of Paraguay’s last eight World Cup qualifying or finals games saw both teams score.

Ten of Paraguay’s last 12 wins were by a one-goal margin.

Six of Australia’s last eight games saw only the winning team score.

Six of Australia’s last eight World Cup matches produced under 2.5 goals.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Julio Enciso has assisted both of Paraguay’s goals at this World Cup and is looking to become the first man since Michael Ballack in 2002 to register an assist in all three group stage matches of a World Cup. Paul Okon-Engstler has completed more passes (61) and created more chances (two) than any of his Australian teammates at this World Cup, also grabbing an assist against Turkey.

Miguel Almirón will miss this game after being sent off against Turkey, while Mathew Leckie is uncertain after coming off early in Australia’s last game.

Betting Analysis
Two resolute and evenly matched defences are coming together, making under 2.5 goals a potential outcome for this game.

Author: Aaron Murphy

Turkey v USA

Co-hosts USA will look to make it three wins from three at the 2026 FIFA World Cup as they take on already-eliminated Turkey in Los Angeles.

Match News and Current Form
Despite registering 62 shots across their two previous matches at this World Cup against Australia and Paraguay, Turkey failed to score in either of those encounters, with their two defeats from two already meaning that they will play no further part in this tournament after this fixture. There is only pride left to play for then for the Crescent Stars, who will be looking to avoid making unwanted history by losing three successive World Cup games for the very first time. In order to stop the rot, Vincenzo Montella’s men need to rediscover their shooting boots and crucially go 1-0 up, as the side that have done so in their last seven matches at the tournament have secured victory.

It is proving to be a much more successful World Cup for USA, who, after defeating Paraguay and Australia in their two games, find themselves already in the last 32. Never before have they won three consecutive matches at the tournament, which will be their main aim here as head coach Mauricio Pochettino continues to imprint his playing style onto his side. So far it has delivered plenty of positives, not least in attack, as they have now scored 2+ goals in seven of their last nine internationals.

Head-to-Head History
Turkey and USA’s five previous encounters have produced a perfectly balanced record of two wins each and one draw, with seven goals scored by each country. All those matches that have produced a victor finished 2-1.

Hot Stats and Streaks
Only one of Turkey’s last six games saw both teams score.

Turkey have won 8+ corners in five of their last six internationals.

USA have conceded one goal at most in each of their last six World Cup group-stage games.

Each of USA’s last nine internationals has seen at least one side score 2+ goals.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Kenan Yildiz leads all Turkey players for shots (12) at this World Cup and has now attempted 2+ efforts in seven of his last eight internationals. Malik Tillman has registered seven goal contributions in his last 13 USA caps (G3, A4), including getting an assist in their opening match of this World Cup against Paraguay.

Turkey could play a heavily rotated XI here, while USA may be without star man Christian Pulisic due to a calf injury.

Betting Analysis
With Pochettino also likely to rotate after two wins from two, and Turkey desperate for a result, backing a draw here seems to make a lot of sense.

Author: Nathan Evans

Norway v France

Both Norway and France have already secured their progression to the knockout stages, making this a straight shootout for top spot in Foxborough, Massachusetts.

Match News and Current Form
Norway have already broken new ground at this World Cup, as it’s their first-ever tournament appearance in which they’ve won more than once following wins against Iraq and Senegal in their opening two games. Although the respective 4-1 and 3-2 wins they managed therein seem handsome enough on paper, they trail the French at the Group I summit on goal difference, so they have to win here if they’re to top the group. A failure to ever beat another European opponent at a World Cup finals (D2, L3) hardly makes great reading on that front, but a phenomenal run of 14 wins from their last 18 matches (D3, L1) suggests they have a chance of overcoming that negative historical omen.

France have laid down their World Cup marker across the opening two matchdays, piling on six goals across convincing victories against Senegal and Iraq. The 2018 winners of this tournament have asserted themselves as one of the favourites, and rounding off an impressive group stage campaign with a win here could be a hugely positive omen as the last time they won all three of their group games they won the tournament back in 1998! Five successive World Cup wins against European opposition hints they’re good value to do just that, as do 11 victories from their last 13 matches overall (D1, L1), nine of which came by a 2+ goal margin.

Head-to-Head History
These sides have never met at the World Cup before, but the last eight meetings have been perfectly split (W2, D4, L2).

Hot Stats and Streaks
Nine of the ten goals in Norway’s group games at this World Cup have arrived after the half-hour mark.

Eight of Norway’s last nine internationals saw both teams score.

France have scored 2+ goals in 14 of their last 15 games.

Six of France’s last seven matches saw both teams score.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Two players in the golden boot running have already staked their claim at this World Cup, with Norway’s Erling Haaland and France’s Kylian Mbappé already on four goals each. Scoring twice in both of Norway’s opening two games, Haaland could become only the third player in World Cup history to net 2+ goals in each of his first three appearances in the competition, while Mbappé has scored 16 goals in 16 World Cup matches as he closes in on Lionel Messi’s all-time competition record of 18 despite playing 12 fewer games.

Norway’s Julian Ryerson went off with an injury in their last game, but France have a near full-strength squad to choose from.

Betting Analysis
Given the prolific rate at which these sides score, both teams to score and over 2.5 goals seems an obvious play.

Author: Chris Wilson

Senegal v Iraq

Senegal and Iraq will be looking to end their 2026 FIFA World Cup Group I campaigns on a high in Toronto, with both teams aiming for a first win at this year’s tournament which could see them sneak into the knockout phase as a third-placed qualifier.

Match News and Current Form
Senegal will have had high hopes for this World Cup - their third in succession - but things haven't gone to plan for them so far at this tournament, losing to both France (3-1) and Norway (3-2). The Lions of Teranga therefore now face the prospect of suffering three defeats in a single World Cup campaign for the first time ever, while their loss to Norway means that they've conceded at least three goals in back-to-back games for the first time this century! On the plus side, they have kept eight clean sheets in their last ten international wins, so will still believe that they can advance to the knockout phase.

This World Cup is just Iraq’s second in their entire history, but despite their delight at reaching the finals, they'll have known that they would be up against it in a formidable group. Even so, they'll have been disappointed with some of their defending in defeats to Norway (4-1) and France (3-0), with their goal difference meaning that even a win here may see them struggle to progress. To improve their chances of victory in this fixture, keeping a clean sheet would be ideal, but they have only registered one in their last eight internationals, making it highly likely they’ll be heading home with three losses to their name.

Head-to-Head History
These two countries have never faced each other before, but Senegal are unbeaten in their previous two meetings with Asian sides at a World Cup (W1, D1).

Hot Stats and Streaks
Four of Senegal’s last five games featured over 3.5 goals.

Senegal scored six of their last seven goals after half-time.

Iraq’s last six matches saw at least one goal before the half-hour mark.

The team scoring first won nine of Iraq’s last ten games.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Ismaïla Sarr got two goals for Senegal against Norway, but it was his first scoring appearance in 13 such internationals that saw him finish on the losing side (W10, D2). Ali Yousif got the winner in Iraq’s last victory - 1-0 over Andorra last month - but he also received his country’s last red card, getting sent off against Venezuela in their final friendly before this World Cup.

Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy went off injured against Norway, while Iraq’s Aymen Hussein was withdrawn for the same reason against France.

Betting Analysis
Given Senegal’s positive attacking displays lately after half-time and Iraq’s recent defensive struggles, a clean-sheet win here for Pape Thiaw’s men would not be surprising.

Author: Alex Bowmer

Cape Verde v Saudi Arabia

Despite starting matchday three in the bottom two of Group H, Cape Verde and Saudi Arabia both bring hopes of a top-two finish into this final group stage clash in Houston, Texas.

Match News and Current Form
Following the impressive draws against Spain and Uruguay that extended their unbeaten run to five games (W3, D2), Cape Verde could become only the third African nation (following Cameroon in 1982 and Senegal in 2002) to go through the group stage of a debut World Cup without defeat. Another draw would see them join Wales (1958), Cameroon (1982) and Republic of Ireland (1990) as the fourth side to draw their first three World Cup matches, but more importantly one point would have them in the running to advance as a third-place finisher if not claim second spot. Bubista’s side should be confident of getting at least something out of this game, having lost within 90 minutes in just one of their last 17 matches.

Saudi Arabia have enjoyed only one victory from their last eight fixtures (D2, L5) after a 4-0 loss to Spain, and despite being at the bottom of Group H, are just one point behind second-placed Uruguay. A victory is vital to keep them in the running for the knockouts and would not only buck their recent form but also a poor World Cup history that has seen them lose 13 of their last 18 games in the competition (W2, D3). Saudi Arabia failed to keep a clean sheet in any of those 18 fixtures and one more against their name would see them become the fourth nation in the history of the World Cup to concede 50 goals in 22 or fewer games.

Head-to-Head History
This will be the inaugural H2H. Saudi Arabia have lost only one of their five World Cup matches against African opposition (W2, D2).

Hot Stats and Streaks
Cape Verde haven't conceded a second-half goal in any of their last five games.

Cape Verde received the same number of cards as their opponents in each of their last four matches.

In their opening two games, Saudi Arabia have faced 49 shots while attempting only ten.

Only one of Saudi Arabia’s last four matches saw both teams score.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Kevin Lenini had not found the net for his country since January 2024 before scoring Cape Verde’s opening goal before half-time in two of his last three international appearances. Saudi captain Salem Al-Dawsari has provided at least one goal contribution in each of their last four victories.

Sidny Lopes Cabral is suspended for Cape Verde, while Saudi Arabia don't appear to have any availability issues.

Betting Analysis
Based on their very strong second half defensive record, backing Cape Verde to keep a second-half clean sheet looks like a smart move.

Author: Tom Penn

Uruguay v Spain

Two former World Cup winners meet in Guadalajara, with Uruguay needing a positive result to avoid an early exit while Spain target a smooth passage into the knockouts.

Match News and Current Form
After drawing their first two group games against Saudi Arabia (1-1) and Cape Verde (2-2), Uruguay are at risk of consecutive group stage eliminations, something they have never previously experienced. The two-time World Cup winners still control their own destiny and could yet top the group with a win, provided they maintain a better goal difference than Cape Verde, who play Saudi Arabia. That seems a long shot for La Celeste, who are now winless across their last six internationals (D5, L1), and having won just one of their last nine World Cup matches played on Mexican soil (D3, L5), the omens are stacking up against them here.

Spain responded emphatically to their surprise goalless draw with Cape Verde on matchday one to thrash Saudi Arabia 4-0. With that win, La Roja registered their third consecutive World Cup clean sheet and moved closer to completing a World Cup group stage without conceding for the first time. Defence has been the bedrock of their success at present, with the reigning European champions and 2010 World Cup winners keeping nine clean sheets across their last 12 games, and defensive solidity could once more give Luis de la Fuente’s side the ideal platform to chase the win they need to guarantee top spot in Group H, although a draw will likely suffice barring a miraculous result from Cape Verde.

Head-to-Head History
Spain are unbeaten across all ten previous meetings (W5, D5) which includes two draws at World Cup finals, in 1950 and 1990.

Hot Stats and Streaks
Uruguay won each of the last four games in which they opened the scoring.

Four of Uruguay’s last five internationals saw both teams score.

Spain opened the scoring inside the opening 20 minutes in six of their last eight fixtures.

Spain’s last 12 games saw the half-time result replicated at full-time.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
After scoring in first-half injury time against Cape Verde, Uruguay’s Agustín Canobbio has netted in three of his last five appearances for club or country, but he’s never been on the winning side when scoring for his country (D1, L1). Should Spain’s Lamine Yamal follow up his strike against Saudi Arabia here, he would become the second teenager after Pelé in 1958 to score in consecutive World Cup matches, and he comes into this fixture having scored in four of his last five competitive outings for club or country.

Uruguay’s Ronald Araújo and Giorgian de Arrascaeta will miss out through injury, while Spain appear to have no major injury concerns.

Betting Analysis
Spain’s habit of fast starts suggests backing Spain/Spain in the half-time/full-time market could offer a route to value.

Author: John Pennington

Egypt v Iran

Egypt are aiming to become Group G winners in Seattle with victory over Iran, who are looking to reach the knockout phase of the tournament for the very first time.

Match News and Current Form
Egypt came from behind to beat New Zealand 3-1 on matchday two for a historic first-ever World Cup win in their fourth campaign at the tournament. It was the first time that the Pharaohs had scored three goals or more in a World Cup game, so they have one foot in the last 32: victory here will see them finish as group winners, while even defeat could be enough to progress thanks to their tally of four points. Hossam Hassan’s men will be wary of their chances as they have not won consecutive matches in their last nine internationals (W4, D2, L3), while Egypt have lost their third group game at their last two World Cups.

Iran showed resilience to secure a goalless draw against Belgium on matchday two with a starting XI averaging 32 years and 181 days - the oldest in World Cup history. Amir Ghalenoei’s side were firmly focused on defending, completing just 50 passes in the first half of that game; the third-lowest tally before the break in a World Cup match since records began in 1966. The Persian Cheetahs will qualify for the knockout phase with a win though, while a draw could see them face an anxious wait to progress as a third-placed team. Iran will have to overcome their scoring woes to get the three points, having failed to find the net in nine of their 20 previous World Cup games.

Head-to-Head History
This is the first meeting between the countries at a World Cup, while Iran have never lost to an African nation at the tournament (W1, D2).

Hot Stats and Streaks
Egypt kept a first-half clean sheet in six of their last eight matches.

Egypt conceded ten of their last 12 World Cup goals after half-time.

Only three of Iran’s last nine matches saw both teams score during normal time.

Iran either failed to score or netted exactly two goals in their last five World Cup games.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Mostafa Ziko has been Egypt’s best attacking outlet recently, contributing to four goals (G3, A1) in their last four matches. A strike from Mehdi Taremi could be a good omen for Iran, as five of his last six international goals have come in four wins.

Hamdi Fathy and Hossam Abdelmaguid went off injured in Egypt’s last game. Iran seemingly have no fresh absentees.

Betting Analysis
Iran have defended excellently at times during this tournament, but Egypt have enough firepower to win ‘to nil’ here.

Author: Sridhar Bhamidi

New Zealand v Belgium

The door is still wide open for a place in the knockout stages as Group G’s bottom side New Zealand go in search of their first victory against a winless Belgium in Vancouver.

Match News and Current Form
New Zealand remain winless in World Cup matches (D4, L4) after giving up a half-time lead to lose 3-1 against Egypt last time out. Only Honduras (9) have played more games at the finals without ever winning, and Darren Bazeley’s men only have themselves to blame having failed to convert scoring first into victory in both of their Group G games. Securing a first-ever win at the finals here would likely still be enough to progress to the knockout stages for the first time, yet recent form stands firmly against New Zealand on that front, as they’ve lost ten of their last 13 matches (W1, D2) and last beat a European nation back in 2010 (D4, L13).

Belgium’s 0-0 stalemate against Iran means they’re at risk of bowing out at the group stage for a second successive World Cup, languishing in third place in Group G heading into the final matchday. The Red Devils have faced hefty criticism back home and are under pressure to perform here, as they’ve now won only one of their five World Cup matches (D3, L1) since reaching the semi-finals in Russia in 2018. All hope is far from lost, as even becoming the first European nation since themselves in 1998 to draw all three group games could secure progression, while their current 15-match unbeaten run (W9, D6) is their second-longest in history.

Head-to-Head History
New Zealand will be hoping to stretch a two-match unbeaten run against European nations at the World Cup (D2) in this first-ever meeting with Belgium.

Hot Stats and Streaks
New Zealand have conceded 2+ goals in five of their eight World Cup games, including both at this tournament.

Each of New Zealand’s last 11 competitive matches produced over 2.5 goals.

Belgium won just six corners across their opening two group games.

Belgium haven't conceded a second-half goal across their last five matches.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
New Zealand will be hoping all-time top scorer Chris Wood is on target, as he last lost a competitive international he scored in back in 2017 (W8)! Thibaut Courtois could become Belgium’s most-capped player at a World Cup in this match, while only two goalkeepers have kept more clean sheets at the tournament than his eight.

New Zealand do not appear to have any fresh worries. Belgium will be without Nathan Ngoy after his red card against Iran, but Jérémy Doku should be available after missing that fixture.

Betting Analysis
It seems unlikely that Belgium’s goal woes will continue here, and with both sides in desperate need of the points, a both teams to score selection appears to make a lot of sense.

Author: Matt Jones