DUTCH DELIGHT AND SOCCEROOS TESTED
THE FIFA World Cup stages are finished, now we head into the elite 16. The Socceroos have made it through and are on a fairytale run, but now face Lionel Messi and Argentina, while the USA takes on Netherlands in what should be a thrilling match-up.
NETHERLANDS: $1.93 DRAW: $3.25
USA: $4
GAKPO ON FIRE
Cody Gakpo has become a household name this World Cup, scoring in every game for the Netherlands in the tournament so far.
His pace and strength helps him get out the back of teams and he has the shot power to finish in front of goal.
USA is strong in midfield but its defence will struggle with Gakpo’s pace: he’s great odds to score again at $2.94.
DUTCH TO WIN CLOSE ONE
Both Netherlands and USA have looked a lot better in defence than attack this tournament, which will keep this match low scoring.
Each team has only conceded one goal so far, leaving the pair equalsecond to Brazil’s defence and will fight out another close encounter.
The Netherlands look to have too much class to lose this match with a firing attack and Frenkie de Jong’s great intercept ability in the midfield.
BEST BET: Netherlands H2H & under 2.5 goals: $3.30
AUSTRALIA: $11 DRAW: $6.20 ARGENTINA: $1.20 GOAL FEST BECKONS
The Socceroos have surprised the world with their A-league
stars in attack, scoring in every game, even against powerhouse France.
Although this will be a tough match-up, Australia’s pace and ability to counterattack will be on show again and give fans something to cheer about.
Argentina is one of the best teams in the tournament and should score two or more goals, which it’s managed in seven of the past eight games. This concentration of attack should lift the total goals over 2.5 (at $1.74) and the both teams to score will also provide handy odds ($2.58).
CLASSY ARGENTINA
Argentina is one of the tournament favourites for a reason: it has one of the best players ever in Lionel Messi and can combine him with the class of Angel Di Maria and Julian Alvarez up front.
This side is on a similar level to France, a team that beat Australia 4-1 in the first game of the World Cup. So although it’s been a great run by the Aussies and they can still hold their heads high, the odds are against them here.
Argentina has an unstoppable attacking team and the value lies in them getting the win, but let’s at least get an Aussie goal in there.
BEST BET: Argentina H2H & both teams to score: $3.50
* 18+ Gamble Responsibly. Call Gambling Help on 1800 858 858 or visit www.gamblinghelpline.org.au