Argentina clash with Croatia and France take on Morocco in the World Cup Semi Finals and @Olimp_SA have a preview including betting tips
Just 4 teams left in the 2022 Qatar World Cup. After some dramatic quarter-final exits, all eyes will be set on the last 4 as they battle for the 2 spots in the World Cup final on Sunday! Have a look at our thoughts for the upcoming semi-finals!
Tuesday – Argentina vs Croatia
Argentina and Croatia will lock horns at the Lusail Stadium on Tuesday night.
Croatia have already sent one South American giant back home and are not unlikely to pull-off another upset on Tuesday. It came down to penalty kicks after a vigorous 120 minutes of football for Croatia to finally scrape past this year`s heavy favourites. One thing that stood out was the Croatian rigid backline – it was only in the first half of extra time that the Brazil`s notorious attack managed to find their first goal. With that considered, I don`t see much changing in Zlatko Dalic`s side and the Croatian’s are likely to be a headache for the Argentines to break down.
In an unusual Qatar World Cup fashion, Argentina`s spot in the semi-finals was decided via a penalty shootout against Netherlands. Chaos and a mix of emotions are the few terms that can be used to describe this quarter final. It was all but finished for Scaloni`s side as they took a 2-goal lead through Nahuel Molina and Lionel Messi, but their focus dropped quite quickly as the Dutch pulled-off an equalizer in the blink of an eye with the last kick of the game. Nevertheless, Argentina are now through. As predicted earlier, the Argentine side has an abundance of attack, however, will it be enough to break down Croatia`s defence? We are predicting there to be under 2.5 goals in this fixture.
Total goals (2.5) under – 1.57
Wednesday – France vs Morocco
The tale of the crowned Champions and the African underdogs kicks-off on Wednesday night at the Al Bayt Stadium.
It took a mix of class and resilience from the French side to dismantle England in their quarter-finals clash. It was always going to be an edgy affair between these 2 sides, but the French have managed to wait it out against the English overwhelming attack and used their counter-attacking chances effectively. Didier Deschamps` side were certainly not at their best – conceding 2 penalties, one which was launched into space by Harry Kane, and giving away unnecessary fouls that could’ve essentially cost them the game. Still, France go into the clash as big favourites, having an overwhelmingly talented side and if they keep their composure on the day, are likely to cruise into their 2nd consecutive World Cup Final.
Morocco took many by surprise in this World Cup and became the first ever African team to reach the World Cup semi-final. Although the underdogs yet again on Wednesday night, wins over Belgium, Spain and Portugal will certainly give the required boost of confidence. Furthermore, Morocco have conceded just 1 goal throughout the tournament and are yet to be beaten. Although proven to not be underestimated, the African squad is increasingly stretched with fitness and injuries and although they will give France a run for their money, this game is most likely to be their last against the high-flying defending Champions. We are backing France to win on Wednesday.
Note, odds are correct at the time of writing, but are subject to change.
Good luck!
