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.
Round Of 16
Canada vs Morocco Predictions – Round of 16 (Match 1)
Canada will take plenty of confidence into the knockouts after grinding out a 1-0 win over South Africa last week, and you can expect a similar blueprint here.
They’re a high-energy side that likes to press, play direct, and use their pace in wide areas, while Jonathan David gives them a genuine target up top if they can win the ball in dangerous spots.
Morocco, though, are absolutely flying after knocking out the Netherlands on penalties in one of the shocks of the tournament.
The Atlas Lions are organised, disciplined, and very difficult to break down, but they’re far from just a defensive outfit. If their midfield can find space and spring forward quickly, they’ve got enough quality to really trouble Canada.
This has all the makings of another tense knockout arm wrestle. Canada will bring the legs and intensity, but Morocco look a little more street-smart in these moments.
The Canadians can make things awkward, but Morocco’s structure and big-game composure gives them the edge.
Prediction: Morocco to Win & Over 2.5 Goals @ $3.10
Value: Morocco to Cover (-1 Goal) @ $3.20
Player Pick: Ismael Saibari Anytime Goalscorer @ $2.75
France vs Paraguay Predictions – Round Of 16 (Match 2)
Paraguay have battled their way into the Round of 16, and they won’t be in any hurry to turn this into a shootout against France.
The South Americans are at their best when they’re sitting in, staying compact, and making life difficult through the middle, so expect them to slow the tempo and try to frustrate Les Bleus for as long as possible.
France, meanwhile, have weapons everywhere you look.
Kylian Mbappe is the obvious headline act, but Ousmane Dembele and Marcus Thuram give Didier Deschamps’ side speed, movement, and plenty of danger in and around the box.
On paper, this looks a pretty clear mismatch, but Paraguay should have enough grit to hang around early and force France to be patient, much like they had to be against Sweden.
Still, once France find a way through, this could open up quickly.
Prediction: France to Cover (-2 Goals) @ $2.45
Value: France Over 3.5 Goals @ $3.40
Player Pick: Bradley Barcola Anytime Goalscorer @ $2.63