What are the best bets at this year’s World Cup?

Russia 2018 is almost upon us and the betting frenzy will soon be in full swing. We take a look at the four bets that could net you a handsome reward this summer.

Nigeria to qualify for the knock-out stages

Group D is a real Group of Death, with Argentina and Croatia joined by Euro 2016 surprise package Iceland and little-fancied Nigeria. Whilst many will expect Argentina to win the group, and rightly so, Nigeria are unlikely to be high on anyone’s list for the last 16.

Iceland’s talisman Aron Gunnarson is fighting to be fit for the tournament and if he’s missing, they could struggle. Croatia might have a wonderful squad on paper, but they’re rarely gelled as a team. Nigeria, however, have Alex Iwobi, Kelechi Iheanacho and Victor Moses in attack and are likely to surprise a few people.

England to make the quarter finals

Once upon a time it was a pre-requisite, but now England’s participation any later than the last sixteen would be cherished. The draw has been kind to the Three Lions; they’re paired with either the winner or runner up of Group G, comprising Poland, Senegal, Colombia and Japan. The likelihood is Poland or Colombia, both sides that Gareth Southgate’s side should have enough to overcome.

Robert Lewandoski – Top goalscorer

It might not seem a sensible bet at first glance, but Lewandoski tends to be central to everything Poland do well. He’s their all-time leading scorer and with only seven matches in total, he’s likely to be involved in at least four. Poland have Japan, Senegal and Colombia in their group, as well as a potential last sixteen game against England. Six goals is usually enough for the Golden Boot – it certainly was for James Rodriguez last time out. Lewandoski could easily eclipse that in the group stages alone.

Argentina – Outright winner

There’s no magical formula to World Cup betting and ultimately, it is highly unlikely anyone from outside the four favourites will lift the trophy. However, this uncertainty makes it a good idea to use an offer like Betway’s up to £30 free bet, for gamblers to protect their investments. Argentina are behind Germany, Spain, Brazil and France in most people’s predictions, but everyone is forgetting the Messi factor. This will probably be his final World Cup, or at least the last one at which he is at the peak of his powers. Both of the greatest players of all time, Maradona and Pele, count a World Cup win amongst their achievements. I wouldn’t dare bet Lionel Messi adding to his and eclipsing those wonderful footballers this summer.

One thing is for certain, there will be thrills and upsets, skills and surprises. The World Cup is undoubtedly the greatest sporting event on the planet, where the entire population of the world will be glued to TV screens urging on their own country, or their favourite underdogs. Let’s hope it’s a good one.