FIFA World Cup Matchday 18 – What do we know? World Cup Quarter Finals 2022 statistics, predictions and analysis
This series presents the latest statistics, forecasts and analysis of the FIFA World Cup Finals in Qatar 2022. This time we take on board two World Cup Quarter Final games that will take place on Matchday 18 of the tournament: Brazil vs Croatia and Netherlands vs Argentina. Let’s explore and analyse these two forthcoming matches and help you choose the best World Cup betting strategies to give you a good run for your money.
Matchday 18 FIFA World Cup Quarter Finals 2022
Match 57: Brazil vs Croatia – Friday, 09.12.2022
VS
Brazil to win Draw Croatia to win
4/11 (prob. 74%) 15/4 (prob. 21 %) 8/1 (prob. 11%)
PLEASE NOTE: The average odds comparison, source – oddschecker.com. The odds are valid on the day of the article’s publication and may be subject to change before the start of the game.
Croatians (14th in the FIFA World Ranking) will face an extremely challenging game against one of the favourites to win the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar. Will they be able to stand up to Brazil (1st in the FIFA World Ranking)?
The duel is expected to bring another huge excitement. Both teams met each other in the 2006 and 2014 World Cups. Back then, Brazil won 1:0 and 3:1 in the group stage.
Croatia, the 2018 World Cup runners-up, have been poor in the tournament overall, but they have managed to produce satisfying results (one win and three draws through their four encounters). They qualified to the quarter-finals by beating Japan 3:1 on penalties.
On the contrary, Brazilians have played impressive football at this year’s World Cup Finals. They secured their promotion to the last 16 from Group G after two wins against Serbia (2:0) and Switzerland (1:0).
In their third group match, Canarinhos lost 0:1 to Cameroon but managed to retain the top spot. They faced South Korea in the 1/8 and jumped into the quarter-finals after a stunning 4:1 win.
Croatia’s possible starting lineup: Livakovic; Juranovic, Lovren, Gvardiol, Sosa; Kovacic, Brozovic, Modric; Kramaric, Petkovic, Perisic
Brazil’s possible starting lineup: Alisson; Militao, Thiago Silva, Marquinhos, Danilo; Casemiro, Paqueta; Raphinha, Neymar, Vinicius Jr; Richarlison
Croatia vs Brazil World Cup 2022 betting odds
Croatia’s poor performances so far are reflected in their odds. On the other hand, Brazil is heavily favoured following a victory over South Korea that puts any doubts to rest about their recent form.
Canarinhos have a significant advantage in this match because of their attacking trio, led by Neymar, who is back from injury.
As for Croatia, oddsmakers don’t think they’ll break Brazil’s defence line, which has conceded just two goals to this point. One of the goals came in the group-stage final game against Cameroon with Brazil’s second-choice lineup.
Croatia – latest World Cup betting odds:
1). Croatia to win the FIFA World Cup: 33/1 (prob. 2,9 %)
2). Croatia to reach the final: 14/1 (prob. 6,7 %)
3). Croatia to reach the semi-final: 4/1 (prob. 20 %)
4). Dominik Livakovic World Cup Golden Glove: 14/1 (prob. 6,7 %)
6). Andrej Kramaric to win World Cup Golden Boot: 100/1 (prob. 1 %)
PLEASE NOTE: The average odds comparison, source – oddschecker.com. The odds are valid on the day of the article’s publication and may be subject to change before the start of the game.
Brazil – latest World Cup betting odds:
1). Brazil to win the FIFA World Cup: 9/4 (prob. 31%)
2). Brazil to reach the semi-final: 1/6 (prob. 86%)
3). Brazil to reach the final: 4/5 (prob. 55%)
4). Richarlison to win World Cup Golden Boot: 13/2 (prob. 13%)
PLEASE NOTE: The average odds comparison, source – oddschecker.com. The odds are valid on the day of the article’s publication and may be subject to change before the start of the game.
Croatia vs Brazil – things to know and remember
There’s a lot of concern in Croatia about defender’s Josip Stanisic (Bayern Munich) muscle injury, which kept him out of the Round of 16. Another defender Borna Sosa (VfB Stuttgart), who also missed that game due to illness, may return on time to face Brazil.
Canarinhos have a number of injuries to worry about, with striker Gabriel Jesus (Arsenal) and defender Alex Telles (Sevilla) both being out of the World Cup after suffering injuries in the last group-stage game against Cameroon. Defender Alex Sandro (Juventus) hopes to return after missing the Round of 16 win over South Korea.
Danilo (Juventus) is fully back in action, as is the striker Neymar (PSG), who played for almost 80 minutes against South Korea after recovering from an ankle injury.
There have been several matches involving these two teams in recent years. Each time, Brazil was the winner. The last time ‘Canarinhos’ defeated the Croatians was on the 3rd of June 2018. The match ended with a score of 2:0.
Brazil have won their last 3 matches against Croatia in all competitions:
- Brazil – Croatia 2:0
- Brazil – Croatia 3:1
- Brazil – Croatia 1:0
Croatia are undefeated in 10 of their last 11 FIFA World Cup Finals matches.
FIFA World Cup in Qatar, Group F 2022 Final standings
Pos. | Country | Played | W | D | L GF GA | GD | Pts |
1. | Morocco (Q) | 3 | 2 | 1 | 0 4 1 | +3 | 7 |
2. | Croatia (Q) | 3 | 1 | 2 | 0 4 1 | +3 | 5 |
3. | Belgium | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 1 2 | -1 | 4 |
4. | Canada | 3 | 0 | 0 | 3 2 7 | -5 | 0 |
Croatia Group F games – results
Croatia – Morocco 0:0
Croatia – Canada 4:1
Croatia – Belgium 0:0
FIFA World Cup in Qatar, Group G 2022 Final standings
Pos. | Country | Played | W | D | L GF GA | GD | Pts |
1. | Brazil (Q) | 3 | 2 | 0 | 1 3 1 | +2 | 6 |
2. | Switzerland (Q) | 3 | 2 | 0 | 1 4 3 | +1 | 6 |
3. | Cameroon | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 4 4 | 0 | 4 |
4. | Serbia | 3 | 0 | 1 | 2 8 5 | -3 | 1 |
Brazil Group G games – results
Brazil – Serbia 2:0
Brazil – Switzerland 1:0
Brazil – Cameroon 0:1
Summary
Brazil will face a tough test against Croatia and will find it very difficult to break them down, but the five-time champions should be able to get the win in this game.
On the other hand, Croatia are excellent defensively, but they should eventually break against these relentless Brazilian attacks. This could be a multiple-goal victory for the Selecao. Anything less will cause concern moving forward into the semi-finals against teams of much higher potential.
Sports betting has never been easier. So, if you’d like to place your bet on any of those two teams, please refer to our website www.betfinal.com for the most accurate FIFA World Cup Quarter 2022 odds.
Match 58: Netherlands vs Argentina – Friday, 09.12.2022,
VS
Netherlands to win Draw Argentina to win
13/5 (prob. 28%) 21/10 (prob. 32 %) 6/5 (prob. 45%)
PLEASE NOTE: The average odds comparison, source – oddschecker.com. The odds are valid on the day of the article’s publication and may be subject to change before the start of the game.
Both sides finished top of their respective groups, with Argentina (3rd in the FIFA World Ranking) returning from a surprising 1:2 defeat against Saudi Arabia. They rediscovered their finest form in the knockout stages, though. If they manage to keep this growing form and things go according to Argentinian plans, they will meet Brazil or Croatia in the semi-finals, then one of Portugal, Morocco, France or England in the final.
After winning Group C, ‘La Albiceleste‘ met Australia in the last 16, beating them 2-1. They now face the Netherlands, who are on an 18-game unbeaten run under their current coach Louis van Gaal, at the quarter-final stage. Something to take into consideration while placing your bets.
The ‘Oranje’, blessed with a combination of experience and youth, were seen as an outsider for the top prize this winter. As Group A winners, the Netherlands (8th in the FIFA World Ranking) took on the USA in their last-16 encounter and came through that test with flying colours, winning 3-1 on the night. Van Gaal’s men must now prepare for Argentina in the quarter-final before facing Brazil or Croatia in the semis, then one of Portugal, Morocco, France or England in the final.
Argentina’s possible starting lineup: Martinez; Molina, Romero, Otamendi, Acuna; Fernandez, De Paul, Mac Allister; Di Maria, Messi, Alvarez
Netherland’s possible starting lineup: Noppert; Timber, Van Dijk, Ake; Dumfries, De Jong, De Roon, Blind; Klaassen; Gakpo, Depay
Netherlands vs Argentina World Cup 2022 betting odds
As you can see, the odds are stacked in favour of Argentina as things stand, but we expect a close game between these two great footballing nations.
Let’s take a closer look at the latest markets and odds for Netherlands vs Argentina
If you want to back a ‘First Goalscorer’ in this encounter, then the bookmakers recommend Lionel Messi whose odds are currently priced at around 9/2 (prob. 18%), to score first. They also think this game will be won by ‘Argentina in 90 minutes’ as you can get odds of 6/5 (prob. 45%) on that outcome, while the Netherlands to win in extra-time is priced at 13/1 (prob. 7%). If you wanted to back ‘Lionel Messi to score a hat-trick’ in this match, then you can get some really good odds of 66/1 (prob. 1,5%).
PLEASE NOTE: The average odds comparison, source – oddschecker.com. The odds are valid on the day of the article’s publication and may be subject to change before the start of the game.
Netherlands – latest World Cup betting odds:
1). Netherlands to win the FIFA World Cup: 16/1 (prob. 5,9%)
2). Netherlands to reach the semi-final: 9/4 (prob. 31%)
3). Netherlands to reach the final: 6/1 (prob. 14%)
4). Andries Noppert World Cup Golden Glove: 11/1 (prob. 8,3%)
5). Cody Gakpo to win World Cup Golden Boot: 50/1 (prob. 2%)
PLEASE NOTE: The average odds comparison, source – oddschecker.com. The odds are valid on the day of the article’s publication and may be subject to change before the start of the game.
Argentina – latest World Cup betting odds:
1). Argentina to win the FIFA World Cup: 6/1 (prob. 14%)
2). Argentina to reach the semi-final: 4/7 (prob. 64%)
3). Argentina to reach the final: 5/2 (prob. 29%)
4). Lionel Messi most World Cup assists: 20/1 (prob. 4,8%)
5). Lionel Messi to win World Cup Golden Boot: 10/1 (prob. 9%)
PLEASE NOTE: The average odds comparison, source – oddschecker.com. The odds are valid on the day of the article’s publication and may be subject to change before the start of the game.
Netherlands vs Argentina – things to know and remember
Besides Giorginio Wijnaldum, who is currently out of the tournament due to a broken leg, the Netherlands do not have any injury concerns as they head into the quarter-finals of the tournament. This could be a significant boost for the side. Frenkie de Jong, Teun Koopmeiners, Nathan Ake, and Matthijs de Ligt are all sitting on yellow cards and will be suspended for a match with another.
The situation is in doubt whether Angel Di Maria will be able to take part in this game due to an injury to his thigh, which prevented him from playing against Australia in the Round of 16. The player returned to training on Tuesday, and should at least be able to contribute to the team off the bench. Papu Gomez sprained his ankle against Australia but is also believed to have recovered. Apart from that, there are no more injury concerns for Argentina of the players on the roster.
Netherlands vs Argentina – last 3 matches in all competitions:
- Netherlands – Argentina 0:0 (penalties 2:4)
- Netherlands – Argentina 0:0
- Netherlands – Argentina 1:0
Of their nine all-time meetings, Argentina have only won once, coming via a 3-1 win at the 1978 World Cup. In the other eight, the Netherlands won four and tied four.
FIFA World Cup in Qatar, Group A 2022 Final standings
Pos. | Country | Played | W | D | L GF GA | GD | Pts |
1. | Netherlands (Q) | 3 | 2 | 1 | 0 5 1 | +4 | 7 |
2. | Senegal (Q) | 3 | 2 | 0 | 1 5 4 | +1 | 6 |
3. | Ecuador | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 4 3 | +1 | 4 |
4. | Qatar | 3 | 0 | 0 | 3 1 7 | -6 | 0 |
Netherlands Group A games – results
Netherlands – Senegal 2:0
Netherlands – Ecuador 1:1
Netherlands – Qatar 2:0
FIFA World Cup in Qatar, Group C 2022 Final standings
Pos. | Country | Played | W | D | L GF GA | GD | Pts |
1. | Argentina (Q) | 3 | 2 | 0 | 1 5 2 | +3 | 6 |
2. | Poland (Q) | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 2 2 | 0 | 4 |
3. | Mexico | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 2 3 | -1 | 4 |
4. | Saudi Arabia | 3 | 1 | 0 | 2 3 5 | -2 | 3 |
Argentina Group C games – results
Argentina – Saudi Arabia 1:2
Argentina – Mexico 2:0
Argentina – Poland 2:0
Summary
Argentina arrived in Qatar having played some entertaining football, whilst also limiting the opposition to very few chances – something that was evident in qualification, where they conceded just two goals in their final 10 matches.
It’s more of a collective approach in a well-run system now for Argentina, instead of heavily relying on Lionel Messi and what he could do with the ball (though the PSG man has certainly been the difference-maker on the Persian Gulf). And the Saudi Arabia result aside, the benefits are starting to show.
The Netherlands are one of four (England, Morocco, Croatia) national teams that have yet to lose at this tournament. Even though the Dutch, unlike their rival, have not lost a match at this championship, they are not placed as favourites. Of course, according to the bookmakers, as they give the Argentinians marginally more chances.
At this point, it is worth mentioning the direct duels. The two countries last met in the semi-final of the World Cup in Brazil in July 2014. No goals were scored after 120 minutes, and Argentina’s advance to the final was decided by better penalty kicks (4:2). Before that, the two national teams played in the group stage of the 2006 World Cup in Germany. Again, no goals were scored either. Could it be that we will also see a penalty shootout this time after a goalless draw? We will find out late on Friday evening.
We are sure you have your own opinions about the winners and losers of each game of the FIFA World Cup Quarter Finals 2022. Although the odds aren’t always accurate, you can find the most updated ones on the Betfinal website: www.betfinal.com
So, if you plan on betting on any result of the upcoming World Cup games, don’t forget to look at those.
Football online betting has never been more accessible and more exciting with Betfinal. We offer our players the best FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar betting odds. We’re here to help you choose your best betting World Cup strategies possible.
So, get ready for the upcoming games and look for the best World Cup betting tips at the Betfinal blog. Stay tuned for the FIFA World Cup Finals betting tips when the time rolls around.
Have fun and bet wisely with the best World Cup betting odds at your favourite betting site, www.betfinal.com
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1). When and where is the 2022 World Cup?
Qatar host the 2022 Fifa World Cup this winter, the first to be organised by an Arab country and the second held entirely in Asia. It is the 22nd edition of the tournament, which began way back in 1930.
The event started on Sunday, November 20, with a match between Qatar and Ecuador.
The Final (and 64th match) will kick-off in Lusail on Qatar National Day, Sunday, December 18, 2022.
- November 20: Opening match of 2022 World Cup (Qatar v Ecuador)
- December 2: Group phase concludes
- December 3-6: Round of 16
- December 9-10: Quarterfinals
- December 13-14: Semifinals
- December 17: Third Place Match
- December 18: Final
2). Who is in the World Cup 2022 Finals?
A total of 32 teams compete in the FIFA World Cup. 31 of them must qualify for the tournament, with Qatar qualifying automatically as a host. There are 13 nations from Europe, 4 from South America, 4 from Asia, 5 from Africa, 4 from North America, and Australia, which is a member of the Asian confederation.
- Host: Qatar
- Europe: Belgium, Croatia, Denmark, England, France, Germany, Serbia, Spain, Switzerland, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal and Wales.
- The rest of the world: Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Mexico, Ecuador, USA, Canada, Senegal, Ghana, Cameroon, Morocco, Tunisia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Japan, Costa Rica and Australia.
3). Why is the World Cup in November?
This year’s World Cup has been scheduled for November and December, unlike in the usual June and July window. This has been done to combat the fierce Qatari summer heat, which is often more than 40°C during the period. The average temperature in November is 24°C and 21°C in December.
4). Are tickets for the World Cup 2022 available?
Tickets are available through the official FIFA website, with more than 800,000 tournament tickets sold during the first and second phases. The online Last Minute Sales on a “first come, first served” basis is currently open and will run until the end of the FIFA World Cup on 18 December.
5). How much does a final World Cup ticket cost?
Four categories of tickets are made available to supporters wanting to attend the World Cup in Qatar.
- Category 1 – is the highest priced, located in prime areas within the stadium.
- Category 2 and Category 3 – are seating areas within the stadium offering a less-premium view of the action.
- Category 4 – is a seating area within the stadium reserved exclusively for residents of Qatar.
All tickets are sold in Qatari riyal to both residents of Qatar and international fans, with prices ranging from 40 riyals ($11) to 5,850 riyals ($1,607).
Published: December 2022
By: Rafa