FIFA World Cup Tips and Previews, 6th December
Japan vs. Croatia
December 6
Japan’s journey so far has probably been the most fascinating of all 32 nations. How do you read into shock wins over Spain and Germany but a loss to Costa Rica? There is enough exposed form by now to put the Costa Rica game out of the memory banks and conclude that Japan is in giant-killing form and can go a long way here. They might have been the beneficiaries of a couple of dubious decisions, but that isn’t what has won them through to the round of 16. They have a dependable unit and a dazzling rotation of attacking players who can turn a game on its head.
Maya Yoshida has led brilliantly, while Kaoru Mitoma and super sub Ritsu Doan have been massive. Doan, in particular, has been the impact player off the bench for the Japanese, scoring twice in impressive displays.
It’s a tough match-up against a veteran Croatian team led by the world-class Luke Modric and Ivan Perisic, while defender Josko Gvardiol has put his youthful talents on full display in this World Cup and will play a key role in getting Croatia through to the next stage.
SUGGESTED BETS:
Ivan Perisic first goal at $7.50
Ritsu Doan anytime goal scorer at $5.50
Croatia win or draw at $1.22
Brazil vs. South Korea
December 6
Brazil’s nine-game winning streak ended in the final group match against Cameroon, but that was just a case of taking a strategic foot off the pedal as the Brazilians are still the team to beat.
While they are still the firm favourites to hold the Cup aloft, there has been a slightly concerning trend of slow starts, which is more likely to be exploited as the tournament wears on.
Some injury clouds persist around the Brazilian team, mainly Neymar, who has been given a solid chance to return from an ankle injury for this clash.
Neymar could be one of a plethora of Brazilians coming back into the team for this one, and it will be a much stronger team to take the pitch here.
Gabriel Jesus and Fred have been a little below their best so far, but it seems inevitable that a big game is not far away for either of them.
South Korea is faced with the biggest knockout challenge of all but has shown that they are more than capable of taking it up to the world’s best. It has only had one win but knocking off Portugal is no mean feat, and this is a team that is coming into this clash with a lot of confidence.
Kim Young-gwok and Hwang Hee-chan are both playing daring, bold football that has proven to be successful and will leave nothing in the dressing room here. Kim Min-jae is a chance to return to the team, adding some grit to the backline. But as promising as they have been so far, it is hard to see their dream extend beyond this game. Brazil to win with a bit of comfort.
