Yesterday was a historic day in World Cup history that had not happened since 1958, with all four World Cup matches ended in draws. The results stunned fans and became massive payouts for bettors.
Today is going to be very exciting for fans around the world who have waited to compare the greatness of Kylian Mbappé to that of Lionel Messi, while also serving their curiosity around Norway’s star striker Erling Haaland, who will make his World Cup debut.
France vs. Senegal
Les Bleus feature Mbappé and Dembélé, but they also have a supporting cast of talented players deeper than any other roster in the World Cup.
Regardless of all the talent France has, this fixture will not be easy. Senegal, the African champions, have talent, pace, and confidence. In order for France to be successful, they must deal with Sadio Mané and 23-year-old Pape Matar Sarr, preventing them from creating chances and getting on the score sheet.
The Lions of Senegal are pumped up for this match because they know a win can propel their confidence to a level never reached before. The most exciting part of this matchup is the simple fact that both teams love to attack.
Expect France to be tested, but with Mbappé leading the way, Les Bleus should find the breakthrough.Pro Paul’s Pick: France wins and Mbappé scores a goal.
Iraq vs. Norway
Norway enters the Cup with one of the most exciting and successful attacks from qualification, largely because of the excellent play of Martin Ødegaard and the power of Erling Haaland.
For Iraq to be successful, goalkeeper and team captain Jalal Hassan will need to have a career day in net. Norway played much tougher opponents in qualifying, but Iraq still deserves credit where credit is due for beating Bolivia in the playoff match.
This will be Iraq’s second World Cup, but they have yet to win a game. They do have a slightly decent chance to get a victory, but do not count on that happening against this very strong Norway team.
Norway is one of my dark horse picks that can go far into the tournament, and this opener is a chance for Haaland and company to make an early statement.Pro Paul’s Pick: Norway wins.
Argentina vs. Algeria
As a player, competitor, and country, one always dreams of playing at the highest competition possible. Algeria’s dreams will become reality as they take on the knightly Argentines and defending World Cup champions in their opening match.
Much has been discussed regarding Messi’s age, form, and whether or not he will start. Regardless, the active playing legend will take the pitch and should thrill billions of viewers around the world who still know that Messi only needs one moment to change the outcome of a game.
Whether it comes from a pinpoint pass, the trickery of a combination play, a brilliant free kick, a penalty kick, or an incredible dribble, Leo Messi will no doubt delight the fans.
Algeria will not be a pushover, having proved they can compete at the highest level with a recent 1-0 result against the Netherlands in preparation for the tournament. The team is led by veteran Riyad Mahrez and features a blend of European league-based players and domestic league players.
Still, Argentina has the experience, quality, and championship belief to begin its title defense with a result.
Pro Paul’s Pick: Argentina wins.
Austria vs. Jordan
Austria is expected to advance out of group play as the runner-up. They are like a fine-tuned, carefully calibrated machine, tactically sound and disciplined in their roles on the field.
Their style is favored by a two-touch, methodical passing approach, where they pride themselves on maintaining ball possession. Jordan will be challenged for the duration of the match to keep Austria off the scorecard.
Jordan will attack with ambition through the midfield and has the ability to shoot from distance or close range on goal. Austria and Jordan are both keenly aware of the importance of securing three points from this match.
Expect well-taken free kicks and corners from both teams, and those moments could easily become the deciding factor in the result.
