World Cup Qualification Matches Resume in Europe on Saturday Evening
Published March 27, 2021 by Florin P
The World Cup Qualification matches start again across Europe on deserted stadiums, as top teams fight for provisional leads in their groups.
International football returns this weekend, with the opening matches of the World Cup group stage. Some of the teams playing tonight have already earned points during this stage of the competition, while others chase the first victories. Home pitch advantage means less because games will be played without spectators, so traveling teams have a better chance of walking away with points.
Czech Republic and Belgium Wrestle for First Place in Group E
Belgium is clearly the better team in the match against the Czech Republic, but has a few players doubtful. Playing on the road would normally be a greater challenge, but they won’t have to worry about a raucous crowd. Belgium has the advantage in head to head matches and is justly favorite at bet365 Sports with odds of 7/10. The hosts will be aiming for a low scoring draw and play defensively, but if they win, those who bet on them will be paid at 4/1.
Invincible Serbia Braces for Portugal Visit in Group A
Serbia is currently enjoying a seven-game undefeated run, with a high number of draws recorded over the span. They would gladly settle for another point when Portugal come visiting, so the starting formation will be defensive. They have already won teams in Group A and are the main favorites to advance, with Portugal in pole position. bet365 Sports offers odds of 7/10 on the visitors to extend their lead, but value is definitely with the hosts who get 4/1 to cause an upset.
Norway and Turkey Fight for Temporary Lead in Group G
The most balanced match of the day is played between Norway and Turkey. The two teams share provisional lead in Group G where the Netherlands has the first chance to advance. Turkey plays on the road and is credited with the second chance at odds of 21/10 by 888 Sport. The odds are tempting because this is the team that defeated the Netherlands and there will be no supporters cheering for the hosts. Norway relies heavily on Haaland to carry them and the bookmaker offers odds of 13/10 on their success.
Slovenia Seeks 10th Undefeated Match when Visiting Moscow
Slovenia is on the verge of extending the undefeated run to 10 consecutive matches. They will have a hard time winning against Russia in Moscow, but a draw is definitely within their grasp. 888 Sport expects the home side to prevail, as reflected by the odds of 7/10, while the visitors get 4/1. In the previous four encounters, Russia won twice and Slovenia once, but all the games were decided by the odd goal. This match is also likely to be a close affair, so it’s worth trusting the underdogs.
Disclaimer:
The odds mentioned here were accurate at the featured bookmakers at the hour the article was written, respectively on Thursday, March 25 at 8 A.M. UK time.
