Interesting Value Bets to Consider for the 2018 World Cup
>>>>> Photo by wuestenigel, CC BY 2.0
With Russia all set to go into 2018 World Cup frenzy, we thought now would be the ideal time to consider a few outside bets that could not only keep things exciting in the early stages of the tournament but potentially, deliver significant returns on investment, too. Traditionally, the World Cup never ceases to throw up some huge shocks along the way. Almost always, there’s a nation that goes against the grain and defies the odds. Who would have thought Costa Rica would win their 2014 World Cup group, including Italy, England and Uruguay?
Iceland to Qualify Out of Group D
The Icelandic side will come into the 2018 World Cup with nothing to fear, despite it being their first appearance at a World Cup final. Their outstanding showing at Euro 2016 proved to the footballing world that Iceland could take on the so-called better nations and beat them, dumping Roy Hodgson’s England out at the last 16 stage. Their Group D contains Argentina, Nigeria and Croatia. Argentina struggled in qualification and recently, were hammered 6-1 by Spain in a friendly while Nigeria almost always flatters to deceive at big tournaments. Croatia has some technically gifted players, but have failed to live up to their potential since a third-place finish at the 1998 World Cup. Iceland’s no-fear approach could see them get a draw with Croatia and defeat Nigeria to make it to the last 16.
Mexico to Win the 2018 World Cup
If you are considering making a play for a perceived outsider in the World Cup outright odds, Mexico would be an excellent shout at 100/1. Did you know the Mexicans have reached the quarterfinal stage of the World Cup for the last six tournaments they’ve played in? If they can safely negotiate their way out of a potentially tricky Group G, then they could emulate their past achievements again. Although a runners-up spot in Group G could see them face the favorites Brazil in the last 16.
Poland to Reach the Semifinals
The Polish national team looks in good shape going into the 2018 World Cup. Coach Adam Nawalka was a star of Poland’s last run to the semifinals of a World Cup tournament back in 1978, and there’s a shot that the Poles could upset the applecart again. Poland’s preparation has been good for the tournament, with their final warm-up game ending in a resounding 4-0 win over Lithuania. The team has a well-balanced look about them, with plenty of firepower in the shape of Robert Lewandowski, who could be an outside shot for the World Cup Golden Boot. They are an attack-minded side, averaging almost three goals a game in the qualifying stage and will look to take the game to the sides in an even Group H.
Spain to be Knocked Out at the Group Stage
The uncertainty and disappointment surrounding the departure of Spain coach Julen Lopetegui cannot go unmentioned. Hours before the start of the World Cup, Real Madrid announced that Lopetegui would become the new Real boss after the conclusion of this summer’s finals. The timing of the announcement didn’t sit well with the Spanish Federation, who promptly relieved Lopetegui of his managerial duties. Former Real Madrid great Fernando Hierro has stepped into the breach as his temporary replacement, but the anger within the Spanish camp could affect them significantly so close to the action. With near neighbors Portugal up first, a slip against their bitter rivals would put significant pressure on matches against Morocco and Iran, with the latter having a particularly tight defense.
Of course, these are all ifs, buts and maybes. But what is a World Cup without some outside bets to keep things interesting? Do you agree with any of our suggestions? Or perhaps you have some more suitable long-shot angles for our readers to consider. Let us know!
Leave a Reply