The World Cup has officially arrived, and the Ladbrokes blog is your one-stop shop for daily tips ahead of all the key games. From the Group Stages, right through to the World Cup Final, check back each day to find out who our football expert is backing!
Round Of 16
Canada vs Morocco Predictions – Round of 16 (Match 1)
Australia have already shown they’re comfortable doing things the hard way, and Tony Popovic’s side will likely lean on that same compact, disciplined setup against an Egypt team with more polish in the final third on Saturday morning.
As we’ve already seen, the Socceroos’ path to goal probably comes through moments rather than long spells of dominance, namely set pieces aimed at Harry Souttar, Jackson Irvine, and the pace or directness of Nestory Irankunda and Cristian Volpato on the break.
Egypt, meanwhile, have the more obvious match-winners. Mohamed Salah is the headline act if fit, but Omar Marmoush and Trezeguet give the Pharaohs multiple outlets in transition, with Egypt capable of sitting in, absorbing pressure, and springing quickly into space.
In terms of predictions, this sets up for a classic knockout grind as Australia look to slow the tempo and play physical football, while Egypt will be happy to wait for the game to open up.
All up, the Socceroos can drag this game deep into the second half, and while we’d love to play the patriotic card and bet Australia to win, there’s no getting around Egypt’s class and quality on attack.
Prediction: Egypt to Win & Under 2.5 Goals @ $3.90
Value: First Team to Score – Australia @ $2.30
Player Pick: Mostafa Ziko Anytime Goalscorer @ $3.60
Paraguay vs France Predictions – Round Of 16 (Match 2)
Paraguay have earned their place in the Round of 16 the hard way, and they’ll likely make this a real grind against a France side with no shortage of attacking firepower.
The South Americans are at their best when they’re compact, physical, and difficult to play through, so expect them to sit deep, slow the tempo, and try to frustrate France for as long as possible.
France, meanwhile, have the kind of quality that can turn a tight game in an instant. Kylian Mbappe remains the obvious danger man, while Ousmane Dembele and Marcus Thuram give Les Bleus multiple ways to hurt teams in transition and around the box.
This feels like a classic knockout mismatch on paper, but Paraguay should be stubborn enough to keep it competitive for a while.
France may need to stay patient – just like they did against Sweden – but their class in the final third should eventually prove the difference.
Prediction: France to Cover (-2 Goals) @ $2.45
Value: France Over 3.5 Goals @ $3.40
Player Pick: Bradley Barcola Anytime Goalscorer @ $2.63