France, the clear favourites of this group, are so loaded with talent that their B squad could challenge for the Cup. Denmark, a young vibrant team led by Eriksen and backstopped by Kasper Schmeichel, have piqued the interest of punters. Peru, a surprising qualifier from South America, took their opportunities when presented. Australia, qualifying for their fourth straight World Cup, can beat any nation on their best day (and they have, just ask England). Australia and Peru will attempt to steal points were possible. The France/Denmark game will be the one that decides this group winner.
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Group B World Cup Preview
What the Oddsmakers Say?
France | - 350 |
Denmark | + 500 |
Peru | + 800 |
Australia | + 1400 |
Odds courtesy of BetOnline (subject to change)
Team France Preview
France had to play in a tough qualifying group, which included the Netherlands and Sweden. After only losing one game during qualifying, the French defence stayed strong, sending them to the top of the group and getting a berth into the World Cup. Since qualifying, Les Blues had a few shaky friendly games going 2-1-1, losing to Columbia in France. Manager, Didier Deschamps, has a big job ahead of him going into this World Cup.
Their playing style is very technical, with lots of quality dribblers and some patient passing. France is led in the midfield by Kante and Pogba with the latter playing more offensively with his national club. Les Blues fire power up front include many options, Giroud, Mbappe, Martial, Dembele but the player that will score the big goals is Griezmann. France have had bad luck in previous World Cup group games. This time around, Les Blues will show why they are one of the favourites.
BEST ODDS FOR FRANCE TO WIN GROUP C
Team Denmark Preview
Denmark finished second in their UEFA qualifying group behind Poland. The Danes needed to play a two-leg playoff game against another group’s second place UEFA team. They were drawn against the Republic of Ireland. Punters picked this playoff to be a close match however in the second leg, Denmark ran wild, winning 5-1. The Danes last loss was back in October 2016. This undefeated streak should help this young team’s confidence going into the group games.
Denmark will need Eriksen to continue his good form from his season with Spurs. If the Danes receive some support from the younger players, or have a Bendtner revival, or if Kasper Schmeichel saves everything that comes his way, they may surprise a few teams after the group stages. Denmark will finish second in this group and move onto the round of 16.
BEST ODDS FOR DENMARK TO WIN GROUP C
Team Peru Preview
Peru did the unexpected - they finished fifth in Conmebol, just ahead of Chile, giving them the Inter-confederation playoff spot. Finishing in this position, Peru needed to play New Zealand for a spot in the World Cup. Over two legs, Peru won 2-0 and packed their bags for Russia. In their last two friendlies, Peru won both impressive games, beating Croatia with only 10 men and beating a strong Iceland. Peru play a strong defensive style and rely of fast breaks to score goals. Farfan will need to lead the line and have some additional help from a few other young players like Cueva and Flores for Peru to have any chance. The game against Australia will decide who finishes at the bottom of the group. My bet is Peru loses this game.
BEST ODDS FOR PERU TO WIN GROUP C
Team Australia Preview
Australia’s qualifiers were disrupted by their long-term coach, Ange Postecoglou, leaving the Socceroos. Despite losing Ange, they finished third in their AFC group. Finishing in third place meant Australia had to play the third-place team from AFC group A, Syria. In this game, the Socceroos won 2-1 in extra time sending them to the Inter-confederation playoff game against Honduras. In this two-leg series, Australia won 3-1 clinching their position in the World Cup. Now playing under new manager, Bert van Marwijk, who is only in charge of the team for the World Cup, the Socceroos are playing with no set style as Bert tinkers with systems.
Their potential new style will likely have some Dutch influence, but this team is unfortunately in transition. Australia has some solid players who play in European leagues including a solid keeper in Brighton’s Matt Ryan who will most likely be the starter. Australia will struggle in this group, but they will have some Cahill magic one more time to give them a win. Socceroos will finish third in this group ahead of Peru.
BEST ODDS FOR Australia TO WIN GROUP C
Best Bet To Win Group C
France will win this group based on raw talent. The odds are very low for them, but this group will be a lock. Les Blues are one of the Cup favourites. With a great blend of youth and experience, they are already looking at their potential round of 16 opponent.
Sleeper Pick To Win Group C
Anyone who is not France is considered a longshot in this group – but remember France has stumbled in the past. If you are looking for a juicy bet and one from a team that has a chance, Denmark is coming in at 5.50 to win the group.
Group C Predictions
This group should have two straight forward qualifiers in France and Denmark, with France taking top spot. At the bottom, Australia will finish ahead of Peru to avoid the last spot. Excluding France, there will not be many goals in this group since the other three teams are not currently known for their skills in the offence department.
Final Standings Prediction
- 1France - 9 Points
- 2Denmark - 6 Points
- 3Australia - 3 Points
- 4Peru - 0 Points
Game By Game Predictions
