Qatar’s FIFA World Cup 2022 Edition has reached the quarter-finals stage. The tournament has lived up to expectations in terms of surprise exits and performances. For example, the Belgian “Golden Generation” had to endure an early exit after a disappointing performance in the tournament. On the other hand, Morocco fought against all odds to defeat Spain and kick them out of the tournament on penalties.
The quarter-finals will see some European and South American giants face off. Sports betting fans on Betway casino Zambia are following the news closely to find out how teams are preparing for the looming showdown. This article looks at the highlights from Qatar so far.
England are Confident of Stopping Mbappe
The match between France and England has the vibes of the final before the final. English fans believe that if they can overcome the French, they can start signing, “It’s coming home!” On the other side, the French are bullish that they have what it takes to kick the Harry Kane-led England out of the tournament.
One of the key players during the match is Kylian Mbappe. The French superstar has scored five goals in four games. Les Blues will be looking to him to lead them in their toughest test of this tournament yet.
England defender Kyle Walker claimed he would not let Mbappe hinder his ambitions to lift the World Cup. On the other hand, Mbappe will be looking to add to his tally as he races to secure the tournament’s Golden Boot.
Walker is regarded as England’s Mbappe antidote. The 32-year-old defender played down Mbappe’s threat and claimed England would be playing against France and not Mbappe! He also claimed that he had faced Mbappe four times in the Champions League, and he doesn’t expect anything different when they meet on Saturday.
Messi vs. Van Dijk – A Clash of the Titans?
Messi, arguably, one of the best attackers in the World Cup 2022, will come up against Virgil Van Dijk, who is regarded as one of the best defenders in the tournament. The two will meet in the quarter-finals match between Argentina and Netherlands.
Messi has been a critical player for Argentina thus far. Furthermore, he hopes to lead them to the semis. However, he has to beat a solid Dutch defense led by Liverpool captain Virgil Van Dijk.
The two footballers met in the 2018/19 Champions League tournament. Barcelona played Liverpool in the semi-finals. In the first leg, Messi was unstoppable as he scored two goals. But Van Dijk led Liverpool to one of the greatest comebacks in Champions League history. How will this looming encounter end? Your guess is as good as mine; the best team will win!
Morocco Would Relish Knocking Portugal Out Of the Tournament
Morocco is officially the “Dark Horse” of the 2022 World Cup. They surprised everyone by finishing on top of their group. And as if that was not enough, they knocked Spain, one of the tournament’s favorites, out of the tournament.
In 1986, Morocco made history by becoming the first African country to reach the World Cup last 16. This year, they have a chance of becoming the first African and Arab country to reach the tournament’s semi-finals. They boast the biggest support in Doha, as the entire region is behind them.
Portugal will offer them a different attacking threat from their previous opponents. On the other hand, Morocco’s success has been based on their resolute defense. The only goal they have conceded in open play is an own goal!
Spain had a record 1019 passes but only managed one shot on goal in two hours of play. The Portuguese showed their attacking prowess by beating Switzerland 6-1. But Morocco will be a different test for Ronaldo and his teammates.
Brazil vs. Croatia
Brazil reached the quarter-final after a comfortable 4-1 win over South Korea. On the other hand, Croatia has not been very outstanding in their performances, but they have a strong team capable of beating anyone. This match is challenging to call for betting fans on Betway because it could go either way!
Brazil will depend on their attacking threat led by Neymar, Richarlison, and Vinicious Jr., But Croatia boasts of Luka Modric, Dejan Lovern, Josko Gvardiol, and Andrej Kramaric. They also enjoy the services of Dominik Livakovic, among the tournament’s best goalies.
Neymar and Modric will be the players to watch in this encounter. Croatia will go into this match as underdogs hence with less pressure. Is this a straightforward match for The Selecao?
