The game against Mexico in kick off the 2018 World Cup was certainly one of the weakest of the era Jogi Löw. If the Mexicans had used their chances better, the defeat would have been much clearer in the end. 

World champion has slipped into a crisis which was visible in past friendly games. Press in country boycott the tournament before first kick off and never gave a credit to current representative squad. However under current situation  have to push forward. 

Sweden is always strong, stable and physical ready to confrontation. Well known attributes were displayed  in the opening game against South Korea, including discipline, defensive and mental strewell-organized, well-ordered, very disciplined. But ongth. The "Tre Kronor" plays a clear 4-4-2 system, n the offensive, well you can't have everything? Only penalty whistled after VAR decision allowed to grab three points. Sweden have been scoreless in the last three friendly matches and only one met a net va Asians.

Germany missed almost everything that led to the title four years ago: a will to win, defensive stability, inspiration and physical and mental freshness.In addition there were a lack of communication, simple ball losses. I believe these things will be fixed but hard to believe that players will stay sharp and accurate like past stats suggest. 

South Korea left impression that look like one of the weakness side in the tournament. Lack of shots, threats etc. 

The selection of Mexico was already before the opening match against Germany, aspirated to deal with the eighth entry into the round of 16 at a World Cup in a row. Since the Football World Cup in 1986, the Mexicans have each time reached the knockout stages, seven times in a row. Reasons why they should be denied the knockout round this time are hardly apparent.

Mexico will push so match would go only in one side, so only one side should notice goal kicks.
 

Nigeria want to bounce back and will go full force to attack. 
If you did not watch or pay attention to the Croatia - Nigeria game you may think that the Nigerian team was very inferior, in reality is that Croatia made 11 shots while Nigeria 14. 
Both teams will in my opinion have to push for victory and I expect we will see chances at either ends, as I spoke one bet on goal attempt is already released. Second will be against a player.

Bookies try new type of bet and set line according to opta .. probably only from first round.. Very high numbers and percentages. 

Emil Hallfredsson represents Udinese on daily basis and used to have 88.5 PS% which is pretty impressive have to say. In first fixture of World Cup kept 88.0, is he capable to stay so high? I believe that line 88.5 is definitely overcounted. In last friendlies he got 75.8% vs Norway, 87% vs Ghana.

In contrast to opening fixture I think the Swiss coach will make a different approach comparing to tie vs Brazil. He will try to dominate the game and remain alive in the competition. We already saw Switzerland against Spain or Brazil, a selection that defensively works by putting a bus in their field, but if they want the 3 points they can not leave with the same approach: they will have to take a step forward. Bookies rate 52% ball possession for Swiss possible to overcome which means the bookmakers expect a balanced game. Indeed, the game styles of the two teams are similar. 

Kolarov with 40 passes in first match with possibility to be subbed during second half. Average 55.4 made in Serie A

In contrast to opening fixture I think the Swiss coach will make a different approach comparing to tie vs Brazil. He will try to dominate the game and remain alive in the competition. We already saw Switzerland against Spain or Brazil, a selection that defensively works by putting a bus in their field, but if they want the 3 points they can not leave with the same approach: they will have to take a step forward. Bookies rate 52% ball possession for Swiss possible to overcome which means the bookmakers expect a balanced game. Indeed, the game styles of the two teams are similar. 
 

Coin toss decide who get a law to decide (the team that won the coin-toss chooses which direction they wish to play). In accordance with the FIFA Laws of the Game, the team that wins the toss decides which goal it will attack in the first half of the match. The team that loses the coin toss takes the kick-off to start the match.

The toss determines not only who will kick off but which end they will attack in which half.

Apparently  it is less important for certain team who will begin a game, captains used to prefer which side to start (condition like suportes stands, bright sun or wind may be take to consideration, may cause massively influence which way to play in the first half). 

Only in two matches (Brazil for example) decided to keep a ball, while every other NT decided to pick a half. 
 

Overall, Costa Rica did not perform well and lost to England and Belgium after the lost pre-World Cup tests in a third successive international match. They were already the supposedly weakest link in his group in 2014, but managed to overcome the group. After first round all we know it won't be a case in Russia.

Above all, differences between the two nations can be recognized by comparing the market value of the players. Amount of Brazil's players is worth nearly one billion euros, the market value of the Costa Rican selection amounts to just 40 million euros. 

Brazil were unable to find a winner against Switzerland on Sunday, leaving wirth big question mark. Current fixture presents a duel that can make clear many things i na group E. Brazil after the surprise of the first game knowing the need to score and don't hold back like against Swiss. 

Backing to the pick, Ruiz's overall 29.9 passes per game in fact got 53 passes against Serbia but match where where equal based on numbers; 50% ball possession, draw 10-10 Goal Attempts, 5-4 corner etc.. Bookies rate Brazil to steal a ball for at least 60% of the time. 

Trying to compare to past events I see friendly party versus Belgium and only 17 passes. Against England & spain benched. 

Denmark has genius player Eriksen, but he cannot decide everything on the pitch. Overall teamplay for both national teams is based on good pressing, almost all players have to attack and to defend. France felt uncomfortable against Kangaroos, referee needed to whistled very often. Australia will commit fouls like they used before. Physical Norge also always deliver more than 10 fouls so in sum might be large today. 

Denmark did not deserve to win against the South Americans, that is the general opinion, whilst the Kangaroos should have shared points with giants France, after good collective efforts. Very tough match with big pressure and tension. 

To sum up, I see overhyped line for fouls, but tackles seem like a valuable since according to whoscore.com Australia's general total is 24 tackles per game (average). The total 24 also committed against France despite of 19 fouls in bucket. 

Good line and odds.

Ranked as 7 in the FIFA ranking with experienced players such as Paul Pogba, Olivier Giroud, Hugo Lloris and Antoine Griezmann we whole world expect more from first match in Russia. Despite of victory performance below any expectations, even scored goals haven't bought any joy, something doesn't click in side of the team. No matter of what, France do not look like a rock so some opportunities from enthusiastic Peruvian seems like a obvious thing. Players like Farfan and Grizman to make this game efficient, nice to watch indeed. Peru comes from a painful defeat to the selection of Denmark by the score of 1-0 in a duel in which deserved to win or at least tie due to the good collective game as they generated plenty of occasions to score but wasted. I hope Peru's saga to fight from the initial minute and look to score, attempt to gain a couple of shots. Peruvian team will play all for everything in this match that is like a final for them.

Whatever people to say this game will be really tough encounter. Argentina failed to win its first match and basically surprised with weakness and impotence upfront. Seem like team need a lot of shots to convert them to goal. Argentina have very strong offense no doubt about that, with compress tide defensive line of Croatians need to try shots from distance. Funny fact, Messi recorded 11 shots on goal but could not scored even from 11 meters that day.

In terms of calculations Croatia  know very well that one point here can give them big opportunity to win this group so maybe more defensive approach will be drawn by coach ahead of upcoming battle against big favorite. Neither as I recon every player gave a heart to perform as best they can in Russia. 

Nevertheless, the victory over Nigeria should not be overrated. Croatia didn't impress, they didn't register a shot on target from open play until the 92nd minute. From other side South American NT shown big problems in defense so there is a loop and method to grab any points today. 

Saudi Arabia comes from having been smashed in its debut, and I hope that this time they will be more determined to cut the game and be harder at the moment of collision which would cause them to do more fouls.

Suarez is one of the best 9 in the world and I hope they do not let him play freely. He is also one of the strikers who overreacts a lot and the referees usually give nonexistent faults to their performances. He is provocative and also commit unforced fouls. 

MDL give less known teams a shot at glory. Teams from Europe and North America will get their chance to prove that they are the best of the best, fighting for a coveted spot in the ESL Pro League. MDL will also be providing amateurs and fans with content to help take their game to the next level. Here is a chance to grab some handicaps and profit.

Grayhound many times baked by me but not always with success. This time will take a challange once again on Cache, not so long time ago smashed SYF 16-2. Poor rival recently underperforming so this should be fast match up. From other side Grayhound proved about quality beating Chiefs on twp maps

MDL give less known teams a shot at glory. Teams from Europe and North America will get their chance to prove that they are the best of the best, fighting for a coveted spot in the ESL Pro League. MDL will also be providing amateurs and fans with content to help take their game to the next level. Here is a chance to grab some handicaps and profit.

Chiefs should not have any troubles and decide very fast tie against #146 ranked team. Only taking to consideration battled against strong teams they are not able to compete in the same level. Third class in Australia stay strong and aim properly. Only Cache of Inferno meant some warnings about potential winner of more than 6 rounds. Veto is done and decided to play on Mirage. Outsider is very poor on this map. 

Iran had one of the best defensive records in World Cup qualifying and did not concede a goal until the final game against Syria.A compact structure have brought their defensive abilities to first round sitting deep against Morocco lucky scrapped victory. Those defensive abilities will once again play a major role when Iran take on one of the biggest favorite of WC. Even against extremely defensive teams, La Furia Roja keep enough tactical variants and individuals to crack their opponent. 

2nd match of Spain in the present World Cup where they will face Iran. What is the plan of the Iranian national team? This question can probably already be answered very well. The underdog will focus on his defensive strengths and try to keep zero as long as possible.

I will go against Silva, great player, will have input on this match for sure but bookie overrate him in my opinion. Silva is a great player but I think this line has been based on his statistics with Manchester City. 

Amount reflected in national caps goes against current line. Past data doesn't look that impressive so I ask why  bet365 is so optimistic about that? Let's take a look: 56, 39, 59, 57, 78, 65, 51, 73, 35, 92, 48, 94, 75, 69 passess.  

What's more there is possibility that will be changed like in previous match in last minutes or even earlier is very possible. If result will be fixed and save some rotation may made victim of him. 

Third argument is that the team attacks is provide more by the left flank which is associate by Alba-Isco-Iniesta tripel, besides that due to physical issues they should be replaced sometime than another. 

Odds dropped from 1.83 to 1.72 already. 
 

League Bet Market/VAR Specials or Will there be a VAR review in the match? (For a review to count the referee must watch the on field monitor. Regular time only)
Yes 2.30

The Video Assistant Referee being deployed throughout the tournament.
Crucially, the VAR does not make any decisions. Instead, they work in an advisory capacity for the man with the whistle. The final decision can only be taken by the on-field referee.

VAR is not used in every game but in first one opening competition referee used the technology to support own decision on a pitch. Since Russia is a host of the party there might be moments that referee won't ruined by personal decision and will call to watch replays for confirmation.

OC CyberGamer Premier League Winter 2018

The next season of CyberGamer Premier League is ready to kick off tomorrow with eight Australian teams fighting for a share of the $15,000 AUD (~$11,400) prize pool. Last 4 teams will participate in LAN. 

Taboo is #259 i world ranking, and new face in Australia. They just won only 12 maps and defetead in 36. They seem the best in Mirage and Cache but not good enoguh to cover handicap, 4,6,6,6, 10, 10 is the last streak of won rounds. 

Chiefs proved that take this competition serious so two maps should be taken EZ. 

Map1

Most of lines set by bet365 has never accomplished. This smells like one of them, line overcounted. 

Idrissa Gueye In Premier League 47.5 (32 caps) & in UEFA Europa League only 37 (2 caps)

Past national caps:

38 passes 90 '37% possession senegal 
61 passes 90' 59% possession senegal 
30 passes 90 '31% possession senegal 
52 passes 90 57% possession senegal 
44 passes 90 50% possession senegal 


 

Both teams had ups and downs during qualifications however  Los Cafeteros have the advantage of being coached by one of the most tactically astute coaches in world football in the form of José Pekerman. The Argentine is considered one of the greatest intellectuals in the game.

In this tie South Americans  will presumably attack, with a cheerful and dynamic football. Supported by James, Cuadrado, Falcao and Bacca must force Japan to defense. If it will be a case than some corners should be gain by Colombia. 

 Japanese federation after interior problems decided to give a change  with the dismissal of Halilhodzic to  Akira Nishino. Automatically Asians started to play happier, more offensive, more like the Japanese who play their national team before. In addition the idols of the fans will return to the starting lineup and will not see the game from the bench, as they used to with the previous coach. 

However, the preparation time  was to to short for new manager.  This is question mark and mystery how Japan will contribute.

Since Asians don't belong to the tallest nations in the world naturally they don't rely on corner kicks. Every time pick a few and last track of data confirm it. 

Bookies cover my expectation about upcoming fixture where Colombia is expected to have between 53% and 57% ball possession. Therefore I do not think it is so high, Japan have to build attacks slowly after recovery or just switch to fast counters. Neither I do not understand this line so low for a central Japanese. They only ask us for 31 passes, way less than previous data.

Maya Yoshida Vs Switzerland 38 passes, 
Maya Yoshida  Vs Ghana 64 passes,
Maya Yoshida  Vs Belgium 41 passes
Maya Yoshida  Vs Brazil 44 passes
Maya Yoshida  Vs Saudi Arabia 71 passes 

As far most teams with status "favorite" have not switch to mode "Mundial" yet, despite of victory France underperformed, the same story with Uruguay, so the same with Brazil and Argentina & Germany. Sweden, well cannot be place them next to mentioned above hard protestants but as I remember correctly they usually have big problems with opening games. For example remember that 0-0 against Trinidad & Tobago in 2006. Beside that, The Nordic side have shown a consistent play style and certainly when no star really stands out.

South Korea also have more recent style is not bright than you think, have struggled on their path to Russia only qualifying for Russia on the final day of qualifying with a 0-0 draw against Uzbekistan. A poor run of results has meant that the country fired head coach Uli Stielike and replaced him with Shin Tae-yong, who was previously in charge of the youth sides.

This is battle of two cautious, defensive minded and hard working teams. So, what can we expecting? But the disappointing momentum ahead of the tournament in Russia will be something to keep the European Cup team nervous. Sweden have not won in all four matches, with two failures and two draws and only scored one goal.

Both teams record average number of shots, comparing to other nations it is just average, Swedish around 12 while Korea 9. In nutshell it should not bring many goal kicks. 

---

Funny fact 
Sweden have confirmed a member of their coaching staff got into a closed South Korea training session and was asked to leave, leading to a squabble between the teams over spying ahead of their World Cup game on Monday.

http://kwese.espn.com/football/fifa-world-cup/story/3529977/sweden-south-korea-in-world-cup-spying-row 

Three Lions take on the Tunisian Eagles.

Hence, things look good for England as they face Tunisia in their first match in Group G. The North African side are going to take part in their first tournament since qualifying for Germany in 2006 and will be the biggest outsiders in the group.

Pick on the right-footed side of England.

Walker less than 75.5 passes 


These are their last official matches with England that I have found data on, all of the qualifying phase for the World Cup: 

Ta larget avaible data come from City whead had around 61% ball possession this season with  under such a huge dominates in possession, Walker got average 73.8 passes. In Man City , in Champions League 74.1.

Today I do not expect England to go for 60-63% possession in this World Cup.

In NT

-58 against Holland. 
-48 against Italy. 
-56 against Nigeria

Again line is overrated by Bet365 like most of them so far. 

Red Devils undefeated gained 43 goals have been almost perfect on the run-up to this World Cup. The Diables Rouges won nine of their ten World Cup qualification matches only dropping points against Greece.


From other side minnows Panama. Los Canaleros qualified for the World Cup for the first time in history in the most dramatic fashion. Needing to beat Costa Rica while hoping that the United States would drop points against Trinidad & Tobago Panama went down early with the United States appearing to grind out a result at the Ato Boldon Stadium.

Football never been justified but if you ask me Panama never should be linked with World cup. 

Belgium are a hungry team full of individual talent who love scoring goals for fun. In qualifying, they literally scored at will. I too expect them to rout Panama.

This game may go like opener Russia against poor Saudi Arabia, might be even bigger festival today. I see several vital bets which should turn profitable for us. Stay Tuned. 

Red Devils undefeated gained 43 goals have been almost perfect on the run-up to this World Cup. The Diables Rouges won nine of their ten World Cup qualification matches only dropping points against Greece.


From other side minnows Panama. Los Canaleros qualified for the World Cup for the first time in history in the most dramatic fashion. Needing to beat Costa Rica while hoping that the United States would drop points against Trinidad & Tobago Panama went down early with the United States appearing to grind out a result at the Ato Boldon Stadium.

Football never been justified but if you ask me Panama never should be linked with World cup. 

Belgium are a hungry team full of individual talent who love scoring goals for fun. In qualifying, they literally scored at will. I too expect them to rout Panama.

This game may go like opener Russia against poor Saudi Arabia, might be even bigger festival today. I see several vital bets which should turn profitable for us. Stay Tuned. 

This is a clash of two strong teams in Group F. both facing teams representative from the group to advance.

Although Germany did not get a good result in the pre-World Cup qualifiers, we just can't underestimate the team because their dominance in big games and warm up with later stages. Although there is a small question mark after the very weak test matches, since 2008, Germans have won every opening game.

Across the pitch, Mexico is also a regular team at the WC. North American team has 15 times to attend the World Cup and always target the quarterfinals. 

All players on both sides are fit according to the current state of scoring opportunities, German accomplish certain amount of shorts which is at least 17 while Mexico used to get 9 or more. So far is so good, most of matches easily reach line of 20-22 shots during 90' minutes, Germany supported by unfeared Mexico we can ask even more.

Mexico ain't that one who going to defend whole game. Mexicans are known from their potential in offense, will look to counter with their own attack power features Javier Hernandez, Hirving Lozano, and Carlos Vel) . In fact, coach doesn’t repeat the XI players, always rotating and changing formations and in long term is doesn’t help the team.