Senegal vs. Netherlands Prediction and Odds for World Cup Group Stage (Senegal's Defense Keeps it Close)

The final two teams in Group A match up on Monday from Al Thumama Stadium in Doha as Netherlands takes on Senegal.

The opening matchup of the A-group went to Ecuador, who took down host nation Qatar 2-0 on Sunday as Enner Valencia delivered both goals on the board.

Both teams come in with expectations, rather than just Netherlands this year. Senegal is seen as a rapidly ascending team, but a costly injury to their star player Sadio Mane could do them in.

The Dutch are +1200 to win the World Cup in their return this season, having failed to qualify in 2018. Senegal comes in at +12000.

Here's the latest odds for the second Group A matchup on Monday:

Senegal vs. Netherlands Odds, Spread, Draw and Total

Senegal vs. Netherlands Prediction and Pick

Even without Mane, I'm buying on Senegal, especially in the early going to hang with Netherlands.

Memphis Depay, one of the top scorers for Netherlands has been out since September, but there's no guarantee he'll play big minutes upon his return.

Furthermore, Senegal's defense has enough to carry them, even in a tough matchup. They only allowed five total goals in their qualifying rounds to the World Cup. Via Action Network, Senegal has never lost a World Cup game by more than one goal.

Ultimately, I'll go under yet again in an opening round game, evidenced by both teams learning to figure out the best way forward without potential top strikers, while also highlighting both of their strengths defensively.

Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.