We take a look at the World Cup 2018 Semi Final match between Croatia and England on Thursday morning (12/07/2018) which looks an intriguing match between two teams most probably wouldn’t be expecting to see in a World Cup Final but one will be. We take a look at both teams odds and give our tips and value tips for the World Cup 2018 Semi Final match.
When: 04:00 | Thursday 12/07/2018
Watch: SBS HD
Preview:
England have enjoyed a relatively safe passage through to the semi-finals but Croatia will certainly be a test but I do have the slight feeling that Croatia have been more physically and mentally tested than England with two recent drama packed penalty shootouts.
Will it catch up on them?
Southgate as he has shown, is very meticulous in his preparation and targets areas he feels his team can get joy.
Set plays have been very important for his team.
Overall style has been patient build-up and looking for combinations to create chances.
It’s based off a sound defensive platform though.
England have scored a lot from stoppages and set pieces and Croatia will need to be very good on all occasions as England have shown how strong they are here.
Croatia are capable of dealing with this and concentration is vital for any kind of success.
Luka Modric is a player who is very effective and gives his team a calmness.
Can control a game and although we know how good he is, he isn’t the player that is always talked about.
He just gets on with his job and very important for Croatia when they have the ball.
KEY BATTLE: Harry Kane v Domagoj Vida
I’m going to go with the Kane v Vida because this is where the game will be won or lost.
Kane will come out on top because he seems to just know that he’ll either score or be involved somehow but is very calm about it.
Vida Is a fierce competitor and will make life tough for Kane.
I just think it won’t be enough.
The Verdict
England to continue making history and ride this wave they are on.
Croatia have been brilliant at this tournament but they have also gone to extra time in the last two stages and that extra energy they’ve had to use may just have taken its toll.
Croatia has a 0-2-0 (0.0 percent) W/D/L record in World Cup matches played during July since 2014.
England has a 7-5 (58.3 percent) BTTS record in World Cup matches since 2010.
Odds:
Tip: Croatia at $3.40
Value BET: Croatia 2-1 at $13.00
*Odds correct at time of posting. Subject to change