Croatia vs. Iceland Prediction
Croatia is nearly a lock to win Group D and only a disastrous performance today would put that in jeopardy, while Iceland still has an outside shot at advancing to the knockout stage if it puts together a gem of a game. Will the Croatians continue their stellar group play with another win?
Game Snapshot
97818 Croatia vs. 97819 Iceland
Tuesday, June 26, 2018
Rostov Arena at 2PM ET
TV: FOX Sports 1
Public Betting Information
According to oddsmakers, Croatia is a +120 favorite to win on the moneyline. Iceland is a +235 underdog, while a draw is set at +230. The total is listed at 2.5 goals.
A stunning win by Croatia
Croatia put itself in a great position to win Group D via a 3-0 victory over powerful Argentina last match. It would need to lose today’s match against Iceland by four or more goals for the top spot to be in jeopardy. The goals versus Argentina were scored by Ante Rebic (53rd minute), Luka Modric (80th) and Ivan Rakitic (90+1). Croatia only recorded 42 percent of the possession time, but accounted for 15 shots (five on goal). Argentina had 10 shots (three on goal). Croatia committed a whopping 23 penalties and was handed four yellow cards, while Argentina was called for 15 penalties with three being yellow cards.
Iceland struggles against Nigeria
After its shocking draw with Argentina, Iceland fell back to earth last Friday with a 2-0 defeat versus Nigeria. The Icelanders can still make it through if they beat Croatia today by three or more goals, or if they beat Nigeria and Argentina only defeats Nigeria by only one goal. A draw would eliminate Iceland. Nigeria scored its goals in the 49th and 75th minute last match to take down Iceland. With only 44 percent of the possession, Iceland was outshot 16-10 and it put three on goal. Iceland did manage five corner kicks and was only called for 10 fouls, none being yellow cards.
Prediction:
Croatia basically just needs to go into a shell this game. Iceland already is better at keeping the score down and relying on defense plus timely goals. I just don’t think Croatia will allow much being so defensive-minded and since it won’t press forward much in my opinion, I love the under here.
WORLD CUP DAILY PREDICTION: CROATIA/ICELAND UNDER 2.5