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
Argentina vs Egypt Predictions – Round of 16 (Match 7)
Argentina are short in the market to book their place in the semis, but they were made to earn it last week after surviving a 3-2 extra-time scare against Cabo Verde.
Egypt also had to do it the hard way, edging Australia on penalties in a thriller to set up a blockbuster head-to-head between Lionel Messi and Mo Salah.
Salah is clearly the man Egypt need to produce something special if they’re going to spring the upset, but that’s also part of the problem. The Pharaohs tend to rely on flashes of brilliance rather than sustained periods of pressure, which is a dangerous game against an Argentina side that can control the tempo for long stretches.
The other concern is Egypt’s lack of clean sheets. Argentina had conceded only once all tournament before the Cabo Verde scare, and if they get back to that level defensively, this could be a long night for Salah and company.
Egypt have enough star power to make Argentina nervous, but the world champions should have the control and class to move on.
Prediction: Argentina to Win & Under 3.5 Goals @ $1.85
Value: Correct Score – Argentina 2-1 @ $9.25
Player Pick: Giovani Lo Celso Anytime Goalscorer @ $4.40
Colombia vs Switzerland Predictions – Round of 16 (Match 8)
Switzerland find themselves at a familiar hurdle, having bowed out in the Round of 16 at each of the last three World Cups.
As always, the Swiss will be tough to break down. Expect them to lean on their organisation, discipline, and midfield control as they look to slow Colombia’s attacking rhythm.
Granit Xhaka remains the heartbeat in the middle, offering structure and experience, while Breel Embolo gives Switzerland a strong outlet if they need to play more direct or hold the ball up under pressure.
Colombia bring the greater spark in the final third. Luis Diaz is the obvious danger out wide, while James Rodriguez still has the quality to find space between the lines and unlock a defence with one pass.
This shapes as a proper tactical arm wrestle between Switzerland’s structure and Colombia’s flair, and it could come down to who takes their chances in transition.
Colombia have the weapons to hurt them, but Switzerland look well placed to keep this close and maybe even pinch it.
Prediction: Switzerland to Cover (+1 Goal) @ $1.62
Value: Switzerland to Win @ $2.30
Player Pick: Breel Embolo Anytime Goalscorer @ $3.25