By J.T. CHADWELL
ENGLAND VS DR CONGO (Noon)
The sportsbook odds will tell you one thing, but the way this tournament has gone to this point would tell you another. We are now through multiple games where European teams have struggled mightily to create big chances against African or South American sides that decide to sit back with 11 behind the ball and defend all game (see Belgium vs Iran, Spain vs Cabo Verde, Portugal vs DR Congo, and England vs Ghana). The England attack has struggled quite a bit for the last 2 matches. Quality and skill will land the Three Lions into the next round, but I think it could be a struggle for goals again.
- Low risk parlay toss ins: Game total under 4.5 AND 1st half under 2.5 AND England over 3.5 corners (-350)
- Average risk play: England to win 1-0, 2-0, or 3-0 (-115)
- High risk play: England to win 1-0 (+430)
BELGIUM VS SENEGAL (4 PM)
One of the better matches of the round of 32. Belgium will have to cut the errors in the midfield to take control of this one. Senegal can hit on the counter quickly, and we have already seen Egypt hit Belgium on the counter in this tournament. If that happens, Belgium can probably press to get an equalizer, so let’s look for both teams to score here.
- Low risk parlay toss in: Senegal +1.5 (-500)
- Average risk play: Both teams to score YES (-120)
- High risk play: 3 way moneyline DRAW (+225)
USA VS BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA (8 PM)
The Americans are flying high and have set the bar of at least making it to the quarterfinals. Team USA has done it with quick precise ball movement, and confusing the opponent defensively, leading to lots of scoring chances. It’s something that can also happen against Bosnia. The Americans must keep their feet on the gas pedal, because if they fall asleep on this one, all it takes is one set piece from Bosnia and this game, and competition, is turned upside down. By the way, the Americans are not great at defending set pieces.
- Low risk parlay toss ins: USA to score AND Bosnia under 1.5 team total (-600)
- Average risk parlay: USA over 1.5 team total AND Christian Pulisic to score or assist (+100)
- High risk play: USA to win 2-0 or 2-1 (+270)
Record
Low risk: 62-17
Average risk: 39-40 (minus 2.2 units)
High risk: 22-56 (plus 1.5 units)
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