Tuesday’s World Cup tips: Must-win time for Australia and Iceland
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Previews and odds for Group C and D games
After all kinds of VAR-based controversy in Group B last night, Tuesday sees Group C and D take centre-stage in the World Cup.
There’s a full preview of Argentina’s huge clash with Nigeria right here.
Stick around though, for a one-stop guide to the other Group D clash between Iceland and Croatia, plus both of Group C’s concluding games.
Group C
Australia v Peru
Both Australia and Peru have shown flashes of promise, but while Peru haven’t managed to grab a point and are already out, the Aussies are hanging in there after a draw with Denmark.
They need to win and hope Denmark lose to France. That should put the Socceroos through on goal difference or goals scored.
But Peru will be eager to show that their promising displays so far don’t end in a pointless World Cup. They’re 13/10 favourites to finally connect up front and win this afternoon.
There’s 9/4 about the Aussies doing their bit and grabbing three points, with a draw – which is no good for either side – 12/5.
Both of Australia’s goals have come from the penalty spot. Aston Villa’s Mile Jedinak is 10/3 anytime and 10/1 to bag the opening goal. Paolo Guerrero leads the way for the Peruvians at 7/5 anytime and 4/1 first goalscorer.
Denmark v France
While the Australians must go all-out for victory, a draw between Denmark and France would suit both sides.
France are already through, but will top the group with a win or a draw, while a Denmark win would bump them into second.
Les Blues boss Didier Deschamps has tinkered with his team so far, and is likely to do so again in Moscow. But with a squad full of talent, they’re still 11/10 favourites.
The Danes will want something from this to ensure their progression, and they’re 17/5 for the win. Most eyes may be on the draw though at 33/20.
Antoine Griezmann is 4/1 favourite to score first, although Deschamps may choose to give Nabil Fekir a start. The Lyon star is 6/1 to open the scoring.
Christian Eriksen has already displayed his talent in Russia with that stunning goal against Australia. The Tottenham Hotspur ace is Denmark’s most talented player by some distance, and 9/1 to score first and 7/2 anytime.
Group D
Iceland v Croatia
After a 2-0 loss to Nigeria, Iceland must win against a thus-far excellent Croatia. Even then, it could be for nothing if the Super Eagles beat Argentina.
Croatia have won both of their matches and are yet to concede a goal. They’ve quickly become one of the most impressive teams in the tournament.
Boasting a stunning array of midfield creativity, they’re 5/4 to pick up another three points. They’re all-but guaranteed top spot, however, which may open the door for Iceland at 5/2. The draw is 9/4.
Iceland do have size and physicality to make things difficult this afternoon, and in Gylfi Sigurdsson, they boast a set-piece ace too. The Everton star is 6/1 to open the scoring and make up for that missed penalty against Nigeria.
Luka Modric has enjoyed a sterling World Cup so far. Real Madrid’s midfield holding man has scored twice – including a stunner against Argentina. Modric is 7/1 to score first and 2/1 anytime.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing
