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The Scout: World Cup Matchday 8 Preview, 27 Nov

Posted on | Posted by The Scout

Group E – Japan v Costa Rica

Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu surprisingly left Takehiro Tomiyasu and Takumi Minamino on the bench against Germany until the second half so it will be interesting to see if tweaks his side to accommodate them. Matchwinner Takuma Asano is another pushing for more game time.

Even a draw is probably no good to Costa Rica given their awful goal difference, so they need to go all out here for three points. Veteran Bryan Ruiz could come into consideration for a start, although reports suggest that Luis Fernando Suarez will resist the temptation to make wholesale changes.

WIN Japan @ $1.42*

Group F – Belgium v Morocco

Belgium were far from convincing in the 1-0 win over Canada. Goal scorer Michy Batshuayi is set to deputise for Romelu Lukaku up front again, while Thomas Meunier could come into consideration for a starting spot. Squad depth will help them as the tournament goes on.

Morocco had just 35% possession against Croatia but battled hard to earn a point. Noussair Mazraoui suffered a knock in that game, however he should be okay to play in what may be an unchanged line up.

WIN Belgium @ $1.96*

Group F – Croatia v Canada

Nikola Vlasic was replaced at half time in Croatia’s 0-0 draw with Morocco, but he is available for selection in this one. The midfield trio of Luka Modric, Marcelo Brozovic, and Mateo Kovacic will again start and they need to impose themselves a lot more on the contest.

Despite losing their opener, Canada impressed and should have left with at least a point. Cyle Larin could come into the team but there was very little wrong against Belgium, they just couldn’t find the net. Alphonso Davies will be keen to make up for his missed penalty in that game.

DRAW @ $3.40*

Group E – Spain v Germany

Spain were ruthless against Costa Rica, scoring 7 without reply. It’ll be interesting to see if Rodri continues at centre back against a tougher opponent. Youngsters Gavi and Pedri get another chance to impress in midfield as the playmakers.

A loss for Germany could see them heading home after just two games. The lack of a true number 9 hurt them against Japan, and they missed a number of good chances before losing 2-1. Despite that result, coach Hansi Flick is unlikely to make many changes to the team.

WIN Spain @ $2.32*

*Odds correct as at 9am, 27th November 2022.

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