By J.T. CHADWELL
European teams continue to struggle in the Americas. Belgium, Spain, Portugal, The Netherlands, and Germany all have been stifled by a lower-tier team from somewhere other than the European continent. Yesterday saw the Germans and Netherlands go home in PKs in a wild day of knockout soccer.
What will today bring? Let’s get to the picks.
IVORY COAST VS NORWAY
- Low risk parlay toss ins: Erling Haaland 1+ shot on target AND Amad Diallo 1+ attempted shot (-525)
- Average risk parlay: Both teams to score YES AND over 6.5 corners (-120)
- High risk play: Both teams to score 2 goals (+292)
FRANCE VS SWEDEN
France’s dream draw to the semifinals begins in the round of 32 against a Sweden team that the French know quite well. These two nations have met 23 times (France leads 12-6-5) and most recently twice in the group stage of the 2020 UEFA Nations League. France took both those matchips. Most would agree France looked to be the best team in the entire field coming out of the group stage, so don’t overthink this one.
- Low risk parlay toss in: France moneyline (-370)
- Average risk parlay: France moneyline AND Kylian Mbappe to score AND France total goal band 1-4 (-105)
- High risk parlay: Mbappe 2+ goals AND Michael Olise to score or assist (+260)
MEXICO VS ECUADOR
You might need an extra cup of coffee or a couple espresso shots to stay awake for this one, because scoring is going to be in short supply. This can be a quite a tricky matchup for Mexico. Ecuador dug its heels in late to get a necessary win against Germany to make it this far, and the knockout format should fit the Ecuadorians well. They don’t concede a lot and Mexico doesn’t feature a high-octane attack. Two goals from either side would nearly guarantee a round of 16 berth.
- Low risk parlay toss ins: Under 1.5 1st half goals AND Under 3.5 game goals (-340)
- Average risk play: 1st half correct score 0-0 (+128)
- High risk play: Mexico to win 1-0 or a 0-0 draw (+185)
Record
DISCLAIMER: Sports betting involves risk. I-81 Sports and its contributors provide analysis and picks for entertainment purposes only. No bet is guaranteed, and all wagers carry the risk of loss. If you struggle with gambling, help is available. Contact the National Council on Problem Gambling at 1-800-522-4700 or visit ncpg.org. In Tennessee, contact the Tennessee Problem Gambling Help Line at 1-800-889-9789.