Saudi Arabia returns to the World Cup sportsbook betting board for the first time since 2006. And for just the fifth time in their history. The +45000 odds to win the tournament are a cold slap in the face. But also serve as a reality check. Sure, the Green Falcons are thrilled to be at the party. But the smiles will likely be frowns in short order. Recent results have not added to the reputation of the team. In their last nine games Saudi Arabia has two draws and seven losses.
2018 FIFA World Cup Saudi Arabia
Date and Time: June 14 through July 15, 2018
Location: Russia
World Cup Betting Online Odds at SBG: Saudi Arabia +45000 to win the World Cup, Saudi Arabia +4000 to win Group A
2018 FIFA World Cup TV Coverage: Check Listings
Is there hope for Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia ranks near the bottom of FIFA among the teams in Russia. On the positive recent friendlies do offer some hope. Clean sheet wins over Algeria and Greece have lightened the mood. However, World Cup sportsbook betting gamblers are not buying. One thing in the Green Falcons favor is Group A. It is among the weakest in the tournament. Uruguay is the chalk but hardly a behemoth. Russia is host but lowly ranked. And Egypt is a long shot as well. So, opportunity will present itself. Questions remain about Saudi Arabia taking advantage.
Is Saudi Arabia a Spoiler?
Spoiler is the term used for Saudi Arabia. And it’s the most realistic sportsbook online role they can play. History offers little as a vote of confidence. They have scored just four total goals in their previous World Cup appearances. Adding to the motivation is that one win can mean advancing to the last 16. And scoring one win is not at all impossible in Group A. Sobering is that they needed a 1-0 win over Japan in their qualifying final. Its hardly a ringing endorsement.
Opening Game at Russia
The opening game of the tournament features the Green Falcons against Russia. The host team will be primed to get off to a great start. President Vladimir Putin will be in attendance as host. The atmosphere will be over the top. Yet the Russians have a leaky defense. The total is set for only 2.5. Over the total looks quite inviting.
Mohammad Al Sahlawi
If Saudi Arabia is to fulfill its role as spoiler Mohammad Al Sahlawi should loom large. The striker played a pivotal role in their qualification. Al Sahlawi scored 16 goals in 14 qualifying matches to set the tone.
Saudi Arabia’s Chaos
Chaos is a part of the problem for Saudi Arabia. The head coach that led them to qualification is gone. Bert van Marwijk quit in a huff after a dispute with Saudi FA. Edgardo Bauza replaced van Marwijk. He lasted five friendlies before getting the gas. Juan Antonio Pizzi is now in charge. Pizzi led Chile to the Copa America Centenario in 2016. A solid team was forming under van Marwijk. The upheaval is not a good portent of things to come.
Matchup to Watch
While Group A offers opportunity, Saudi Arabia looks hopeless. Their World Cup sportsbook betting underdog status is justified. They have little depth or structure. Opponents are more established. And better prepared.
World Cup Betting Odds Picks
The Green Eagles are going to discover just how far behind the world they truly are.
World Cup Betting Online Pick: Saudi Arabia to go winless.