Russia impressed all with their spectacular opener. The team scored a dominant win. The nation put on a spectacular show. It was a perfect day. And a fantasy fulfilled. But a 5-0 blowout over Saudi Arabia was expected. A World Cup betting matchup vs. Uruguay is a step up. At the very least. Uruguay is a serious tournament team. And a favorite in Group A. They figure to be the toughest Group opponent Russia will face. And the ultimate measuring stick test. Uruguay began World Cup play in solid fashion.
2018 FIFA World Cup Uruguay vs. Russia
Date and Time: Monday, June 25, 2018, 10 a.m. ET
Location: Cosmos Arena, Samara
World Cup Betting Online Odds at SBG:
| Team | Spread | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Uruguay | PK (-144) | 2 (+117) |  |
| Russia | PK (+129) | 2 (-132) | |
| |||
2018 FIFA World Cup TV Coverage: FOX
Uruguay so Far
Uruguay opened World Cup betting in victorious fashion. A late header from Jose Gimenez proved to be the difference. Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani came close. It was not as spectacular as Russia’s opening win. But it was technically sound. Uruguay was fortunate that Mohamed Salah was out. The Egyptian striker may have evened things out. As the game wore on Uruguay emerged superior. They controlled most of the play. And it was indicative of their long range capability. The Uruguay goal was neve really threatened.
Oscar Tabarez and Co.
Venerable 71 year old Oscar Tabarez coaches Uruguay. “El Maestro” is one of the most respected managers in football. This is his second stint as coach of the national team. Tabarez always begins with defense first in his mind. Few teams are more dominant defensively. And this effectively sets up the counter. In Luis Suarez Uruguay has a bona fide super star. Suarez is a slick dribbler. And a deadly finisher. He is among the most complete players in the world. Edinson Cavani offers top shelf forward support. Suarez and Cavani make for a truly dynamic duo.
Dennis Cheryshev
Dennis Cheryshev became a Russian national hero in the opener. He scored two goals in the win. And did all that as a substitute. Iury Gazinsky set the tone early. He scored the opening goal at the 12 minute mark. It was a dream start for the host team. But the reality is that Russia is in the final for just one reason. They are the host team. Had they actually had to qualify they most assuredly would have failed. Many consider them to be the worst team in Russian history. In the 2016 Euro they won just six out of 19 matches.
Other Russian Name so Look Out For
Goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev is the team stalwart. He got off easy in the opener. Akinfeev did not have to make a save. Russia will need Akinfeev at his best. That is because their defense is among the worst in the final. Striker Fedor Smolov is the man to watch. He is the top Russian Premier League scorer. Smolov is a superior finisher that can also pass. He is the top sportsbook threat on the national team.
Matchup to Watch
Uruguay is a big time World Cup betting force. This is where Russia meets reality. The hosts are simply not of this quality.
World Cup Betting Odds Picks
Uruguay should prevail as a fairly priced favorite.
World Cup Betting Online Pick: Uruguay
World Cup Betting Score Prediction: Uruguay 2, Russia 0
Check out a profile of Luis Suarez and Uruguay!