Russia was not give any chance for World Cup success. Nor did they get much respect. But the Russians have proven to be surprise team. Sure, they benefited from a weak group. But a win over Spain should silence the doubters. But now the host team has perhaps their most difficult challenge. Croatia has proven to be a top surprise in their own right. The Blazers were ignored as a World Cup betting contender. But their dominance of Group D served notice. They are a World Class contender. Russia meets Croatia in the battle of dark horses!
2018 FIFA World Cup Russia vs. Croatia
Date and Time: Saturday, July 7, 2018, 2 p.m. ET
Location: Fisht Olympic Stadium, Sochi
World Cup Betting Online Odds at SBG:
| Team | Spread | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Croatia | -½ (+122) | 2 (+103) |  |
| Russia | +½ (-137) | 2 (-118) | |
| |||
2018 FIFA World Cup TV Coverage: Check Listings
Russia so Far
In the Round of 16 Russia played super power Spain to a 1-1 draw. They went on to win the penalties 4-3. It has to go down as the biggest win in program history. Spain was among the top tier World Cup betting favorites. This was a crowning achievement for the entire country. They have pulled off a successful tournament as host country. But the squad has shown ability and character. Most believed that Spain would blow them apart. Goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev will go down as a national hero. He made two key stops in the penalty phase.
Great Respect for the Home Team
In the Group phase Russia gained a lot of respect. Their offensive capability was demonstrated in the opener. Saudi Arabia was helpless against the onslaught. Russia scored a 5-0 win. In their second group match offensive prowess was again on display. Russia defeated Egypt 3-0. Uruguay was able to completely shut down the home team in the Group final. Russia was shut out 3-0. But the Group stage was illustrative of a team better than sold.
Croatia’s Dominance
Croatia was dominant in the group phase. They won all three of their sportsbook online matchups. The Blazers scored seven goals while allowing just one. Their opener was a 2-0 win over Nigeria. That was expected and not considered noteworthy. But in the second match Croatia popped eyeballs. They ran over Argentina 3-0. It was no contest. Nor was it an accident. The Blazers midfield kept Lionel Messi at bay. While serving notice of its own excellence. The third group match was against pesky Iceland. Croatia prevailed 2-1. Nobody had a more impressive Group stage.
Croatia so Far
In the Round of 16 Croatia faced a disciplined Denmark team. The Blazers knew that they would have to earn every inch. The match ended in a 1-1 draw. But Croatia prevailed on penalties 3-2.
Luka Modric
Luka Modric has emerged on the world stage. Always a top midfielder he has impressed all. In fact, nobody has been more impactful in this tournament. His performance in the win over Argentina was one for the ages.
Matchup to Watch
Russia’s strong offense will face the ultimate test here. Croatia’s midfield is the best in the sport. And should be the World Cup betting difference in this match. Look for Modric and company to deliver again!
World Cup Betting Odds Picks
Croatia to end Russia’s Cinderella story.
World Cup Betting Online Pick: Croatia
World Cup Betting Online Score Prediction: Croatia 2, Russia 1
Catch highlights of Croatia’s win over Denmark!