From the start there has been plenty of talk about parity at Russia. Although Germany was a big World Cup Betting Odds favorite they quickly discovered victory is not guaranteed. Mexico scored the biggest win of Group play so far. Die Mannschaft was upset 1-0 by a determined Mexican team. With the loss Germany was served notice. There is a reason nobody has been a repeat champion in over 50 years. Brazil was the last team to turn the trick in 1962. Apparently, the Germans have been reading their own headlines. And Sweden won’t be an easy out in fact!
2018 FIFA World Cup Sweden vs. Germany
Date and Time: Saturday, June 23, 2018, 11 a.m. ET
Location: Fisht Olympic Stadium, Sochi
World Cup Betting Online Odds at SBG:
| Team | Spread | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sweden | +1 (+129) | 2½ (-112) |  |
| Germany | -1 (-144) | 2½ (-103) | |
| |||
2018 FIFA World Cup TV Coverage: FOX
Germany’s Upset
Germany suffered their first World Cup Betting Odds loss in an opener since 1982. It was a thrilling but crushing match setback to Mexico on Sunday. And now everyone is questioning if they can recover. Actually, the Germans were caught off guard by a blistering pace at the outset. Mexico jumped them from the start with an early chance. And at the 35 minute mark they were rewarded. Hirving Lozano scored the game’s only goal. What was most surprising was that Mexico carried the play. They generated the most threats. Coach Joachim Low’s team was flat footed.
Ochoa Against German Blitz
In the second half Mexico changed up and became defensive. For instance, they laid back more. Sitting deep in their own frustrated the Germans. Die Mannschaft was unable to generate legitimate threats. At the end Mexico had to hang on strong. Germany forced nine saves. Mexican goal keeper Guillermo Ochoa stood tall against the desperate German blitz.
Sweden
Sweden is strong and polished under coach Janne Andersson. They are a no frills type of team. Andersson is celebrated as a mastermind. He was instrumental in formulating a playoff win over Italy. And has built a team culture based on hard work. The days of revolving around Zlatan Ibrahimovic are over. Nonetheless, fans are loving it. The new collective style won their hearts in fact. Emil Forsberg is the playmaking star of Sweden. He is a top tier attacking midfielder.
Sweden’s Defense
Defense is the strength of Sweden. While there is talent on the team its not like the Germans. There is not a lot of creativity with the Swedes. They prefer to lie back deep and counter. Andersson is unapologetic about the approach. He said the philosophy and tactics won’t change. Regardless of who the opponent is. Organization and effort are the constant staple indeed.
Germany
Germany is so good that they won the Confederations Cup with many backups. Top players were told to rest. And then discovered this young group could take their jobs. Timo Werner emerged as a top new star. And it showed just how deep the roster is. The Germans took the title with ease. But their sportsbook online loss to Mexico was the ultimate jolt.
Matchup to Watch
All of a sudden this is a huge World Cup Betting Odds match. Mexico is playing with house money to make it out of this group. The loser here is behind the eight ball. Expect the Germans to rally. Their vast array of weapons is the difference. Low will have them fully focused.
World Cup Betting Odds Picks
Germany should rebound with a strong win.
World Cup Betting Online Pick: Germany
World Cup Betting Online Score Prediction: Germany 2, Sweden 0