The Russian squad’s fitness levels are very good. Exceptionally so.
According to 538, England is a 2:1 favorite against Russia and a 55:45 favorite against Croatia. They have the other side at basically a coin flip, with France slightly favored at 52:48. Winner of France/Belgium is slightly favored to win the final unless Russia gets in, in which case they’re strong favorites at better than 2:1.
Bet Russia wins this.
Trash penalty. Come on Croatia, put the pressure on.
Not with a start like that. Terrible first attempt.
Most matches with PKs in a World Cup; looks like 4.
And now Croatia botches. Are we sure this World Cup isn’t scripted?
Wow. In the spirit of the Bills, is that wide left or wide right?
Well, Russians are known for juicing…
Holy shit.
Is there a rivalry between ENG-FRA like that between ENG-GER? (Although I understand some Germans think the ENG-GER rivalry is entirely in English heads alone because Germany’s too good for England or something)
Two terrible kicks from the Russians, and a damn lucky bounce for Croatia. I’d be feeling pretty confident if I was England at this point.
Croatia to the semifinals!
I’m not well versed in it, but Germany has had significantly more success than England so I don’t know if that attitude would be unwarranted.
Croatia through.
No there’s no real history between any of the teams left in.
Those odds mentioned seem about right to me. I’d rank them as
Belgium
France
England
Croatia
but really who knows?
Yep. It’s a toss up. Its good for the neutrals and good for the game to let some new blood through.
Would be befitting for Southgate’s team to win the World Cup final on PKs.
Please not another Brazil v Italy 94 or a France v Italy head butt match.
Russia shows what teamspirit and determination can do. Good game.
Croatia will go far.
I’d switch France and Belgium, but agree otherwise. This cup should be France’s now, But WTF do I know? I think Belgium missing Meurnier for this one will be big.
Team spirit or the fear of the Gulag. 