The 2018 World Cup has been a Cinderella story for England. The Three Lions arrived at Russia in an unusual position. Normally they are top tier World Cup favorites. Only to end up as overlays. However, England began as a bet on 2018 FIFA World Cup dog. Punters tabbed them as too young and inexperienced. But now they are just one win away from the final. Croatia brings their own underdog element to the pitch. Perhaps the Blazers are an even bigger surprise. Nobody gave them a glance on opening day. Its Croatia vs. England for the final!
2018 FIFA World Cup England vs. Croatia
Date and Time: Wednesday, July 11, 2018, 2 p.m. ET
Location: Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow
World Cup Betting Online Odds at SBG:
| Team | Spread | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|
| England | -½ (+132) | 2 (-111) |  |
| Croatia | +½ (-147) | 2 (-104) | |
| |||
England vs. Croatia TV Coverage: FOX
Croatia’s Amazing Journey
Croatia won Group D in impressive fashion. They opened with a Bet on 2018 FIFA World Cup win over Nigeria. The 2-0 payout began the Blazers story with style. And showed off their midfield as among the best in the world. But the Croats were supposed to suffocate Nigeria. It was their second match where Croatia earned true respect. Against the great Lionel Messi and Argentina, the Blazers dominated. Croatia prevailed 3-0. It was no accident. Messi and his team were rendered helpless. While Luka Modric introduced himself to the world. He was the best player on the pitch.
Luka Modric
Modric is the best of the best on his squad. Croatia’s midfield has consistently been rated as elite. World Class is the marquee of this group. Modric headlines it all as one of the most complete players anywhere. His goal against Argentina proved to be the dagger. The Blazers last Group D match was a 2-1 win over Iceland. They needed an Ivan Perisic goal at the end to escape.
England
England had a perilous Group G opener. Harry Kane scored in extra time to give the Three Lions a win. Tunisia was the 2-1 victim. Kane initiated his sportsbook credentials as a top tier striker. In the next match he scored a hat trick. England destroyed Panama 6-1. However, in the Group G finale the Three Lions were blanked. Talented Belgium scored a 1-0 win.
From Penalties to Semifinals
In the Round of 16 both teams needed a penalty session to advance. England played Colombia to a 1-1 draw. Which set up a heart stopping penalty round. Kane’s goal was the difference in the 4-3 shootout. Croatia tied plodding Denmark 1-1. Modric delivered the difference in a 3-2 penalty period. In the quarterfinal England controlled Sweden 2-0. Croatia tied host nation Russia 2-2. Modric again delivered the difference making goal in the penalty session.
Kane vs. Modric
England vs. Croatia brings a sensational matchup of star power. Harry Kane has emerged as the world’s deadliest striker. The Three Lions captain is verified as a true impact force. But Luka Modric has done that every bit as much for Croatia.
Matchup to Watch
Croatia is the superior Bet on 2018 FIFA World Cup value. England deserves profound respect for its resurgence. But too much public money has flowed their way here. Modric is the difference in this match.
World Cup Betting Odds Picks
Croatia to continue its improbable upset run!
World Cup Betting Online Pick: Croatia
World Cup Betting Online Score Prediction: Croatia 1, England 0
Catch highlights of Croatia’s thrilling win over Russia!