The Scout: World Cup Matchday 18 Preview, 9 Dec

Posted on December 9, 2022March 10, 2023 | Posted by The Scout

Quarter Finals (1)

Croatia v Brazil

Borna Sosa and Josip Stanisic are likely to be available again for Croatia following illness and injury, though coach Zlatko Dalic will avoid shaking things up. Barisic, Dejan Lovren, Luka Modric, and Mateo Kovacic are a booking away from suspension. Croatia endured a tough 120 minutes against Japan and fatigue will be their undoing against the tournament favourite.

Brazil blew South Korea away with ease as Neymar made his return to the fold. They are expected to name an unchanged starting line-up given Gabriel Jesus and Alex Telles are out for the rest of the tournament, while Alex Sandro is doubtful. Eder Militao, Fred, and Bruno Guimaraes are walking the yellow card tightrope.

WIN Brazil @ $1.32*

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Netherlands v Argentina

Louis van Gaal has a fully fit squad at his disposal meaning Memphis Depay will start again. Wing backs Denzel Dumphries and Daley Blind combined for a goal and three assists between them against the USA. Their style of play has been criticised, but it has been effective, and can stifle their South American opponents here.

Argentina are by no means a one-man team but Lionel Messi’s influence cannot be understated and he ran the show against Australia. If he is allowed to roam free, it spells trouble for the Dutch. Angel Di Maria should be available for selection, while Nicolas Otamendi and Cristian Romero are expected to get the nod at centre back.

WIN Netherlands @ $3.50*

*Odds correct as at 9am, 9th December 2022.

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