Joe Casey
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Morocco pulled off one of the biggest shocks of the World Cup group stage as they won Group F ahead of Belgium, Canada and Croatia. Now the Atlas Lions will look to keep the surprises coming as they take on Spain in Tuesday’s first round-of-16 matchup.
We’ve come up with a Same Game Parlay which potentially pays out at +543 odds at FanDuel Sportsbook at the time of publishing. Be sure to check out the rest of our World Cup soccer predictions and remember to gamble responsibly.
Spain to qualify (-440)
Both Teams to Score – Yes (+122)
Ferran Torres anytime goalscorer (+200)
Same Game Parlay odds: +543
Let’s check out the reasoning behind each of our selections:
Spain to qualify (-440)
Morocco should not be underestimated in this matchup, but Spain should have too much quality for the underdogs to pull an upset. The Atlas Lions have never reached the quarterfinals of a World Cup and despite some good performances, they look likely to struggle against such a top-quality team.
Spain’s defeat to Japan in the group was only its second loss in 14 games and its roster strength could make the difference. Spain’s midfield trio of Gavi, Pedri and Sergio Busquets is impressive and they should be able to take control of the game. Even if Morocco is able to force extra-time, Spain should be able to reach the last 8 of the World Cup for the first time since winning the trophy in 2010.
Don’t miss our full Morocco vs Spain predictions
Both Teams to Score – Yes (+122)
Morocco has scored in 13 of its last 16 games and can get on the scoresheet once again in Tuesday’s early World Cup game against Spain. The Atlas Lions produced a massive shock in winning their group, but have a number of exciting attacking talents, including Chelsea’s Hakim Ziyech and Sevilla’s Youssef En-Nesyri, and they have scored at least twice in 4 of their last 5 games.
Spain’s defense has not been solid recently. La Roja lost 2-1 to Japan in their final group game, meaning they finished only 2nd in their group. Both teams have scored in 4 of Spain’s last 6 games, and the same outcome has decent odds for this matchup.
Ferran Torres anytime goalscorer (+200)
Spain has plenty of attacking options but coach Luis Enrique has shown a preference for using Ferran Torres on the right side of his front three.Torres scored twice in the opening game against Costa Rica and the Barcelona forward is a dangerous player for Spain.
Much of La Roja’s attacks are focused down their left, meaning they can cut it back to Torres, who will be attacking from the opposite wing. The 22-year-old has 15 goals in 34 games for his nation and is also their designated penalty taker, so he looks likely to find his way onto the scoresheet once again in this match. Remember that only goals scored in regulation time will count for this leg.
Make sure you check out the rest of our World Cup predictions for the upcoming games
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