How To Bet Each Group At The 2022 World Cup
For the first week of the World Cup, the only thing clubs are worried about is being one of the top two teams in their group. For bettors, this is a great way to get some value with a handful of teams we’re expecting to be good – and even those we are hoping to shock the world.
The group stage is always a fun time, with the round robin schedule providing excitement and drama. As the tournament gets underway, let’s look at the best teams to back in each group.
Group A Prediction:
- Winner: Netherlands (-195)
- Runner-Up: Senegal (+400)
This group could end up in a lot of different ways. Senegal has a lot of hype coming into the World Cup, but it also has to hold off Ecuador. The Ecuadorians have been inconsistent since 2002, but have similar odds as Senegal to win the group. That match will be the biggest of the group and will most likely decide who will follow the Netherlands.
Group B Prediction:
- Winner: England (-250)
- Runner-Up: USA (+550)
Wales and the United States are set to battle for the runner-up spot (apologies to Iran) in this group. The United States looks invigorated after failing to qualify in 2018. This is the first time since 1958 that Wales has qualified for the World Cup. Both teams have a lot to prove, but I think the United States will have a slight edge against the inexperienced Welsh team.
Group C Prediction:
- Winner: Argentina (-220)
- Runner-Up: Mexico (+490)
Lionell Messi and Argentina are slated to make a run towards the final. Those are the expectations and I will back them in the group stage. As for Mexico and Poland, I think Mexico gets the nod. The Mexicans have made it to the Round of 16 in every tournament since 1994.
Group D Prediction:
- Winner: France (-195)
- Runner-Up: Denmark (+185)
We all expect France to be a player late in the tournament, so I don’t have to go into detail about why I’m backing them. As for Denmark, it is one of my favorite dark horse picks. The Danes have had serious momentum and long tournament runs leading up to the World Cup. They are primed to have at least a solid first three games.
Group E Prediction:
- Winner: Germany (+105)
- Runner-Up: Spain (-105)
This is the most straightforward group of the opening round. Germany and Spain are both powerhouses with championship hopes. Japan and Costa Rica are nice stories and deserve to be in the top 32, but they don’t have the scoring threats the top two teams have. You can bet these teams in any order, but Spain and Germany will be the ones advancing.
Group F Prediction:
- Winner: Belgium (-150)
- Runner-Up: Canada (+1100)
Croatia failing to make it out of the group stage may be one of the bigger shocks, considering Croatia made it to the final four years ago. Canada has an exciting young forward in Jonathan David who can push Canada’s offense forward – which will be crucial against the experienced teams like Belgium and Croatia. Also Canada’s schedule is favorable. With Belgium first, it gives the Canadians a chance to catch the top team by surprise and steal some points.
Group G Prediction:
- Winner: Brazil (-220)
- Runner-Up: Switzerland (+490)
The runner-up spot in this group is going to be an interesting one, however, I don’t think Serbia will be able to overtake Switzerland. The Serbians have failed to make the Round of 16 since 1998. They aren’t experienced enough and haven’t shown they can compete with the best teams.
Group H Prediction:
- Winner: Uruguay (+200)
- Runner-Up: Portugal (-145)
This is my biggest play of the group stage. Uruguay has a good offense that can challenge Portugal's. If the Portuguese aren’t able to get Ronaldo going early, they may have a slow start to the World Cup. These are two teams that are expected to be at the top of the group, so let’s side with the value in this one.
Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.