Thursday’s World Cup best bets & top odds – December 1, 2022

Thursday’s World Cup games will see the end of Group E and Group F. The likes of Spain, Germany and Belgium will be in action, and depending on how things play out, we could see some of those big nations head home earlier than expected. Here are our free betting picks for the massive slate on December 1.

Croatia vs Belgium

It looks like another tourney will go wasted for Belgium. While they aren’t yet eliminated, the Red Devils just can’t seem to put it all together and they have looked very beatable through their two group stage games. Belgium did get one win, but it was an uninspiring one against Canada. Meanwhile, Croatia destroyed the Canucks 4-1 and looked like the World Cup contenders they were four years ago. While Belgium have more big-name talent, the value is with Croatia.

Japan vs Spain

Alvaro Morata has two goals through two games this World Cup run and he is a perfect fit for this Spanish side. Spain have an abundance of young talent in their midfield and they are creating chances at a higher rate than any other team. However, they do not have a bunch of reliable finishers and a lot of those chances are going to waste — except when Morata is on the end of the ball. He has been very reliable in front of goal, and considering the talent around him, he should continue to find the back of the net. In this game against Japan, La Roja should be on the front foot for the majority of the game and Morata should have a few opportunities to score against this middling Japanese defense.

Costa Rica vs Germany

Germany are -1000 favorites with Bovada to win against Costa Rica. With a line like that, it’s safe to assume Germany will create a lot in attack — especially when they need to win to secure a spot in the knockout rounds. Their best player this tournament has been the young star Jamal Musiala, and although he hasn’t scored yet, it feels like it’s just a matter of time before he finds a goal. Take Musiala to score and as the Germans pile it on in what should be a one-sided affair.

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