The World Cup is finally here, and the neds blog is your ultimate destination for daily tips on all the biggest matches. From the opening group stage clashes to the drama of the knockout rounds and all the way to the final showdown, we’ve got you covered every step of the way. Expect expert insight, informed predictions, and a few bold calls along the journey. Be sure to check in each day to see who our football expert is tipping to come out on top and stay one step ahead throughout the tournament.
Group Stage
Argentina vs Austria Tips & Predictions – Group J (Match 5)
Argentina started their campaign exactly how they would have wanted, cruising past Algeria 3 nil and putting the result beyond doubt late thanks to a bit of Messi magic.
Austria also got the job done in their opener, beating Jordan 3 1 after enjoying plenty of the ball and showing some real ticker when the game was briefly tied up in the first half.
That said, the scoreline probably flattered them a touch. Austria needed a Jordan own goal to get some breathing room before Arnautovic finished things off from the spot.
The way Austria like to sit in behind the ball could make life tricky for Argentina early, especially if they can keep their shape and pick their moments on the break.
Still, if Argentina stay switched on and avoid getting caught in transition, they look very hard to knock. Scaloni’s side were all class first up, and there is enough quality in the final third to find a way through.
Prediction: Both Teams to Score at $2.10
Best Value: Argentina to Win Both Halves at $3.60
Player Prop: Julian Alvarez Anytime Goalscorer at $2.50
France vs Iraq Prediction – Group I (Match 5)
France could not have asked for a much better start, putting Senegal away 3 1 in a performance that reminded everyone just how dangerous they are.
They were sharp in attack, controlled the big moments, and once the game started to stretch, their quality really told. With Mbappe up top and the likes of Dembele and Thuram buzzing around him, there are threats everywhere.
Iraq, on the other hand, were given a bit of a reality check in their 4 1 loss to Norway. They did manage to score, so there is at least something to take forward, but defensively they were opened up far too easily.
That is not what you want before facing a France side that can hurt you in about five different ways. Whether it is on the counter, through sustained pressure, or just individual brilliance, Les Bleus have plenty of paths to goal.
Unless Iraq can sit deep, stay compact and concentrate for the full 90, this could be another tough shift.
France should have too much class, too much speed and too many finishers.
Prediction: France to Win and Over 3.5 Goals
Value: Correct Score France 3-0 at $6.40
Player Prop: Any 2 of Aymen Hussein, Kylian Mbappe or Ousmane Dembele to Score at $2.20
Norway vs Senegal Prediction – Group I (Match 6)
Norway made a statement first up, thumping Iraq 4 1 and showing just how much firepower they have in this side.
Haaland looked right at home on the big stage, bagging a couple, and when you have Odegaard creating chances and Sorloth giving defenders another headache, Norway suddenly look very dangerous.
Senegal went down 3 1 to France, but it was not all doom and gloom. They got on the scoresheet against one of the tournament favourites and showed enough pace, strength and directness to cause problems if Norway give them space.
The worry is down back. Senegal had a tough time dealing with France’s movement, and now they run into another attack with plenty of weapons and a striker who does not need many looks.
This shapes as a really entertaining game. Norway can score, Senegal can answer, and neither defence looks rock solid enough to trust for 90 minutes.
Prediction: Both Teams to Score at $1.70
Value: Over 3.5 Goals at $3.10
Player Prop: Erling Haaland and Sadio Mane 2 or more goals combined at $3.70