Tasty affair for a variety of reasons! A derby at a World Cup is never a terrible thing, but both teams need to go for it. England will want to secure top spot – which requires them to attack Wales. Wales are trying to give themselves a chance at qualifying – which requires them to attack England.
To Win Match
Wales 13/2 | Draw 36/10 | USA 9/20
The reality for Wales is that they are on the verge of an early exit from Qatar. The Dragons consolidated their draw against the USA with an implosion against Iran. Their hopes of qualification are on its last legs now, they will need to beat England and hope for a draw in the USA/Iran game to give them a sniff…
I’ve seen a lot of people suggest that Wales were unlucky to see their keeper Wayne Hennessey receive a red card – but they were playing second fiddle even before that! Wales are without a win from their last seven games (drawing two and losing five) – so whilst their story around qualification is impressive, they’ve been horrible in this year’s World Cup.
After a perfect start in Qatar, England stuttered against the USA, but still have qualification firmly in their grip. You would assume that Gareth Southgate will stay clear of rotation, given they are not necessarily guaranteed top spot in group B.
If England can help it, they will surely want to avoid playing the Netherlands in the next round – so they simply must win here. Harry Kane has been quiet so far this World Cup and so I expect the English talisman will want to open his scoring account soon.
Wales haven’t been able to score against England in their last three meetings – let alone beat them. England are worthy favourites, but I still suspect they have it all to do.
Verdict: England (9/20)
I agree, not brilliant odds about this prediction, but in a World Cup which has served up surprise after surprise – this is a banker for every multiple.
England (although it kills me to admit) have looked good so far. I mean look, there will always be media attention around their ability and performance, but they look dangerous going forward and for the most part, resolute in defence.
Get on the English win.
