When it comes to the eight different groups one stands apart as the most equal. Group H has two equal co favorites. Columbia and Poland lead the group expectations. Betting money has flowed almost equally on both squads. Senegal makes for an intriguing and overlooked dog. While Japan is the long shot that few think much of. Punters looking for a Bet the World Cup challenge will love Group H. Columbia impressed gamblers last time around in 2014. But Poland garnered attention with a strong qualification. They also boast a super star in Robert Lewandowski.
2018 FIFA World Cup Group H
Date and Time: June 14 through July 15, 2018
Location: Russia
World Cup Betting Online Group H Odds at SBG: Columbia +130, Poland +180, Senegal +515, Japan +705
2018 FIFA World Cup TV Coverage: Check Listings
Senegal
Senegal is on the bet the World Cup for just the second time in history. And for the first time since 2002. Head coach Aliou Cisse played for that 2002 team. And in fact, served as the captain of the squad. Qualification was not easy for Senegal. But Cisse molded his group into a strong unit at the end. It is a formidable team entering Russia. And one that could bring surprise wagering value. The tandem of Sadio Mane and Kalidou Koulibaly add to expectations. They are the top players from Africa.
Japan
Japan is a sportsbook online long shot with good reason. To their credit this is their sixth consecutive World Cup appearance. Head coach Vahid Halilhodzic was fired not long ago. This has served to make things unsettled. Akira Nishino was the late appointment new coach. He was promoted from the national association. There he was technical director. It is a daunting task to take the reins on the fly. A shot at success is only diminished.
Poland
Poland captain Robert Lewandowski was a record breaker during qualification. He posted 16 goals while the Poles won eight out of ten matches. He is a proven World Class talent. This is Poland’s first World Cup after a 12 year absence. Head coach Adam Nawalka has gotten the most out of his roster. And there is more to the team than only Lewandowski. Nawalka has methodically improved the unit. Adding to expectations was a quarterfinal in the Euro. Defense is the one major concern for Nawalka. The team allowed 14 goals against in qualifying games.
Columbia
Columbia made the quarterfinals in 2014. Most believe it will be a far more difficult task in 2018. Head coach Jose Pekerman lamented the tough qualification process. Columbia made the tournament by a whisker. Pekerman had to emphasize defense to get the team through successfully. Overall the path to Russia underwhelmed punters. The roster would seem capable of far better. It has all served as quite the buzz kill. James Rodriguez was the hero of 2014. Although inconsistent he was Columbia’s top scorer in qualification. Carlos Sanchez is a defensive stalwart.
Matchup to Watch
Poland seems to stand out as a top Bet the World Cup choice. Lewandowski is an impact player. Columbia has ability for sure. But their lackluster qualification is impossible to ignore. This is where Senegal makes for a potential second choice.
World Cup Betting Odds Picks
Poland should win this group. And be embarrassed if they don’t.
World Cup Betting Online Pick: Poland
Check out highlights of Polish great Robert Lewandowski!