Spain v Germany – Both Teams To Score
Germany are in desperate need of points on the board after suffering defeat to Japan in their opening 2022 World Cup fixture. Spain, on the other hand, enter the match on the back of an emphatic 7-0 thumping of Costa Rica which demonstrated much of what makes Luis Enrique’s team so dangerous at this tournament.
While Spain will likely control possession, Germany will carry attacking threat through the likes of Serge Gnabry and Jamal Musiala. Spain’s high line can be exploited and Germany will have a strong enough foothold in the game to play the ball into pockets of space. Both teams are a good bet to find the back of the net.
By losing to Japan, Germany became the first team in recorded World Cup history to chart over three Expected Goals (xG) and lose. Hansi Flick’s side have also found the back of the net at least once in each of their last 17 matches in all competitions. They will be an attacking threat against Spain.
Croatia v Canada – Canada Full Time
Canada were unfortunate not to take something from their opening 2022 World Cup fixture against Belgium as they had an Alphonso Davies penalty kick saved and spurned multiple opportunities to find the back of the net. However, John Herdman’s team are set up to once again perform well against Croatia.
Croatia had control in their opening fixture against, but posed very little goal threat. Their ageing backline will give Canada space to exploit and if Davies, Jonathan David and Cyle Larin can sharpen their end product in the final third, the 2018 World Cup finalists could be in trouble.
Despite drawing a blank against Belgium, Canada scored more goals in CONCACAF qualifying than any other team. If Stephen Antunes Eustaquio can get his foot on the ball and give Canada a platform in the centre of the pitch, the Canucks will be able to create opportunities against an ageing opponent.
Argentina v Mexico – Lautaro Martinez To Score
Saudi Arabia inflicted an historic World Cup defeat on Argentina, but there’s good reason to believe Lionel Scaloni’s team will still qualify for the round of 16. Lautaro Martinez has scored five goals in his last seven appearances for La Albiceleste and was a marginal offside decision away from scoring against Saudi Arabia.
Martinez appears to have forged a strong understanding with Lionel Messi who is the creator-in-chief for Argentina at the 2022 World Cup. If Messi is in the mood against Mexico, there’s a good chance Martinez will stand to benefit as the one likely to be on the end of opportunities in the penalty box.
While Martinez used to be considered something of a second striker, he has become a more rounded centre forward this season. He has sharpened his cutting edge in front of goal, but is still capable of playing his part in possession play. Mexico will have to be on their toes to keep him out.
