Poland may not be a top tier World Cup betting favorite to win the tournament. But as far as dark horses go they could be among the most appealing. As well as the most capable. And with World Class superstar Robert Lewandowski they have an impactful weapon. Senegal returns to the World Cup final tournament for the first time since 2002. The last time in they shocked the globe with a Final 16 appearance. They are coached by one of the players from that 2002 team. Aliou Cisse has a tall task in reclaiming previous glory with this squad.
2018 FIFA World Cup Poland vs. Senegal
Date and Time: Tuesday, June 19, 2018, 11 a.m. ET
Location: Otkritie Arena, Moscow
World Cup Betting Online Odds at SBG:
Team | Spread | Total | |
---|---|---|---|
Senegal | PK(+131) | 2 (-141) | |
Poland | PK (-146) | 2 (+126) | |
2018 FIFA World Cup TV Coverage: FOX
What are the Odds for this Game?
Poland is a +4600 wagering selection to win the World Cup. Senegal is a +20000 long shot to win the tournament. In Group H Poland is a +180 World Cup betting choice. Senegal is a +465 to win the foursome.
Senegal
Aliou Cisse was captain of the famed 2002 Senegal team. It was the high point in that country’s soccer history. To his credit Cisse has amassed the most formidable team in 16 years. Cisse took over as Senegal coach in 2015. He brought much needed order to team. Just as important the coach tightened up the defense significantly. Kalidou Koulibaly is the rock of that defense. Senegal won 13 of 14 matches with Koulibaly on the pitch. Of concern is the hamstring injury to Sadio Mane. He must be available for Senegal to have a realistic sportsbook online shot.
Poland
Poland may be a second tier choice to win the World Cup. They are not on par with Germany, Spain, and Brazil. And perhaps not Portugal or Argentina. But from there the Poles can compete well. Qualification demonstrated Poland’s potential. They won eight out of 10 games. Robert Lewandowski served notice with 16 goals scored. Just as valuable was his leadership to the team. The end of a 12 year absence from the main event was cause for celebration. Yet there is a sense more is possible.
Poland’s Road to Russia
Defense remains the worry for Poland. They allowed 14 goals during the qualification period. But coach Adam Nawalka is expected to tighten the screws. That is based on Poland’s improvement at the 2016 Euro. They were competent on defense until the quarter final round. There was considerable euphoria over reaching the Final 16. But a 4-0 loss to Denmark was a reality check. It was the worst Polish defeat in 15 years. But also, a cause for motivation. Center back Kamil Glik is the rock of the defenders.
Lewandowski
Lewandowski has 93 caps with 53 goals. Those are both all time highs for Poland. He is one of the premier goal scorers in the world. As a pro for Bayern Munich he has 89 goals in 94 matches.
Matchup to Watch
Robert Lewandowski is the World Cup betting matchup difference here. Senegal has nobody to match the Polish star.
World Cup Betting Odds Picks
Poland should get off to an excellent start with a win over Senegal.
World Cup Betting Online Pick: Poland
World Cup Betting Online Score Prediction: Poland 2, Senegal 1
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