Brazil entered Russia as a World Cup betting odds co-favorite with Germany. It seemed as if the leadership of Tite had finally gotten The Selecao organized. The coach had them playing with polish and purpose. Discipline that was lacking had been restored. But since action began in Russia Tite’s team has seemed to regress. They have not overwhelmed opponents as expected. Punters are concerned about getting burned on overlays. For Serbia the World Cup has also been a struggle. But the difference is that not much was expected from them. Yet a shot at the knockout stage remains.
2018 FIFA World Cup Brazil vs. Serbia
Date and Time: Wednesday, June 27, 2018, 2 p.m. ET
Location: Otkritie Arena, Moscow
World Cup Betting Online Odds at SBG:
| Team | Spread | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brazil | -1 (-111) | 2½ (EV) |  |
| Serbia | +1(-104) | 2½ (-115) | |
| |||
2018 FIFA World Cup TV Coverage: FOX
Brazil so Far
Brazil was a strong World Cup betting odds favorite in their opener. Yet all they could manage was a 1-1 draw with Switzerland. The Swiss spent most of the game in a defensive shell. They forced Brazil to make just one save. But Steven Zuber’s goal at the 50 minute mark tied the game for good. Philippe Coutinho was the only Brazilian that could score. It was quite a letdown for all. Brazil’s vast arsenal of big guns failed to fire. And their lax defense of a corner permitted the Switzerland goal. Superior Swiss organization forced the draw.
Close call against Costa Rica
Things were even more perplexing in Brazil’s second sports betting match. Against outmanned but pesky Costa Rica. The Selecao needed stoppage time goals to win. Philippe Coutinho and Neymar got better late than never goals for the victory. But nobody was thrilled with the close call. Nor the antics of Neymar after his goal.
Remembrance of the Past
So far this Brazil effort has reminded all of previous failures. In 2014 they bombed out as the host overlay. And are yet to live that down. It appeared as if Tite had straightened things out. But the lapses and late play are indicative of past failures. Brazil is simply not living up to admittedly high expectations.
Serbia so Far
Serbia was able to get past Costa Rica 1-0 in their opener. Aleksandar Kolarov scored the only goal on a free kick at the 56 minute mark. While not an artistic triumph it was still a much needed win. That was followed by a 2-1 loss to Switzerland. As was the case for Brazil the Swiss were too structured. Few teams can match La Nati for organizational skill and discipline. Yet Serbia lasted until the 90 minute mark when the Swiss broke the 1-1 draw. Xherdan Shaqiri applied the dagger for Switzerland. It was a stunning setback for the Serbs.
Serbia in turmoil
Serbia entered this World Cup with its share of turmoil. Coach Slavoljub Muslin was sacked despite getting their ticket punched for Russia. Mladen Krstajic now leads the incomplete Orlovi. Serbia boasts a World Class star in Aleksandar Mitrovic. But there are too many team holes not covered.
Matchup to Watch
Serbia has the proverbial puncher’s chance here. But Brazil clearly has the superior firepower. Scoring depth is their World Cup Betting Odds matchup advantage here.
World Cup Betting Odds Picks
Look for Tite to have his Brazilian team prepared for their best match yet.
World Cup Betting Online Pick: Brazil
World Cup Betting Online Score Prediction: Brazil 1, Serbia 0
Catch highlights of Brazil’s win over Costa Rica!