Peru finds itself in an unenviable position heading into its match against Group C favorite France. The Incas failed to get a result against Denmark in their opener and now need to find a way to get at least a draw in this match. A loss would likely eliminate them from the World Cup, while France is looking to essentially punch its ticket to the knockout round with a win. That should make this match a very fun one to watch.
The most anticipated sporting event in the world comes around once every four years, so don’t miss any of the 2018 World Cup. This match will take place at Ekaterinburg Arena in Yekaterinburg at 11 a.m. ET on Thursday, June 21, 2018. Catch every moment of the match live on FOX.
World Cup Group Stage Betting Odds at BookMaker.eu
Peru +563
France -196
Draw +342
Over/Under 2.5
Last Match
France was not at its best in its opener against Australia, but Les Bleus managed to get the win regardless. A Samuel Umtiti blunder gifted the Aussies a penalty kick midway through the second half, and it appeared that the Socceroos would manage to pull a draw out of the match. However, the French pulled ahead for good after a nice touch from Paul Pogba led to an own goal and gave France the 2-1 win and three crucial points.
The French were somewhat fortunate in their match, while the Peruvians suffered one of the most heartbreaking losses of the first set of matches. Peru looked like the better side for much of their match against Denmark, yet they were unable to find a way to beat Kasper Schmeichel. Star player Christian Cueva missed a penalty kick that would have given Peru the lead, and they had much better opportunities than their opponents. Peru was just unable to convert.
Player to Watch
Kylian Mbappe didn’t find the score sheet in his World Cup debut, but his presence was felt. France’s midfielders just missed connecting with him on a number of occasions in the match against Australia, and they will be looking to convert on those chances in this one. Mbappe has incredible speed and is going to beat almost any defender to the ball if he is given a pass into space.
He may still be raw, but Mbappe has the potential to become the best forward in the world in a few years. His touch is sublime, and he has the strength behind the ball to fire it past a goalkeeper on the first touch. Peru’s defense was only tested a handful of times by Denmark, but they will have a much tougher time stopping Mbappe and France.
Matchup to Watch
Peru proved that it could be dangerous on the attack against Denmark. The Incas were able to push the ball on the flanks and threaten Denmark’s back line quite a few times with their speed and ability to move into space.
They are hopeful to break through against France this time. However, while France’s back line doesn’t have the size of Denmark, it is very talented. Umtiti will look to atone after a disastrous first game. He is considered one of the best young center backs in the world as is his partner Raphael Varane. These two will need to be stout when Peru goes on the counterattack.
Free Soccer Betting Pick
This game will get into a familiar ebb and flow pretty quickly. France will press, while Peru will counter when they are able to. However, Peru is going to take more chances than usual, and that will open the game up. I think Mbappe will be the difference maker for France, as they essentially punch their ticket to the knockout rounds with a win.
World Cup Group Stage Odds: France 2, Peru 1
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