It wasn’t pretty but France got the job done. Their opening game was tougher than expected. But they scored a 2-1 World Cup betting payout over Australia. The win was also historic. Les Bleus were awarded the first CVAR penalty decision in World Cup history. Paul Pogba got the late deflection goal to win it for the French. Peru had an impressive opening game. They carried the play in a 1-0 loss to Denmark. It was Peru’s first tournament game in 36 years. Denmark was back on their heels most of the match. However, France should prove more difficult.
2018 FIFA World Cup Peru vs. France
Date and Time: Thursday, June 21, 2018 at 11:00 AM
Location: Central Stadium, Yekaterinburg
World Cup Betting Online Odds at SBG:
| Team | Spread | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peru | +1 (+101) | 2½ (-111) |  |
| France | -1 (-116) | 2½ (-104) | |
| |||
2018 FIFA World Cup TV Coverage: FS1
Peru so Far
While losing their first game Peru earned respect. They forced Denmark to make six saves. It seemed inevitable that they would score. Yet they did not. Emblematic of the match was Christian Cueva ballooning a penalty. He cleared the bar in what was a huge chance for Peru. Still the match showed they belong at Russia. But their match with France is a big step up in class.
“Tigre” Ricardo Gareca
Peru coach Ricardo Gareca took over in 2015. He is a hero for getting the team back on the World Cup betting board. “Tigre” is an apt nickname for the manager. His players fight ferociously. Gareca used a distinctive style in getting the group to Russia. Peru restored the short rhythmical passing and ball possession. It was a style that set them apart in their glory years of the past. Peru is again elegant. Yet also disciplined.
Peru’s Important Players to Consider
Led by striker Paolo Guerrero, this team has more ability than many realize. Jefferson Farfan is a powerful wing man for Guerrero. Guerrero is captain and the Peru record goal scorer. He is also a warrior.
France so Far
Expectations couldn’t be higher for coach Didier Deschamps and France. Led by Antoine Griezmann their roster is an embarrassment of riches. He scored in the opening game. France dominated Australia early in the match. They had multiple chances. The Aussies frustrated the French with their scrappy play. And the final 10 minutes were incredibly tense. But Les Bleus escaped. And such sportsbook online close calls are often on a path to championships.
Hopes on Griezmann
France seems stagnant since their loss in the 2016 Euro final. Inconsistency continues to plague their efforts. Deschamps tactics seem to conflict. It is hard to label the playing style of the team. Defense is often a detriment. France is more speed oriented. Creativity and counter attacks are emphasized. Deschamps relies on individual stars such as Griezmann to carry the team. Griezmann is a superior dribbler. He has a bag of many dazzling tricks. And he finishes more often than not. France is often considered a team of the future. 2022 may be more realistic than 2018.
Matchup to Watch
Peru could prove to be a dangerous World Cup betting dog here. If Australia could scare the French why not Peru?
World Cup Betting Odds Picks
Peru should enter this game with confidence. They were more impressive in their opener than France.
World Cup Betting Online Pick: Draw
World Cup Betting Online Score Prediction: Peru 1, France 1