After a dramatic finish to qualify for the knockout stage, Austria is tasked with taking down Spain. Below, I explain why I don't expect Austria to put up much of a fight. Then, I highlight why goals will be sparse when Portugal and Croatia meet, and I explain why Switzerland is being undervalued against Algeria. Here are the best bets and 2026 World Cup picks for Thursday, July 2’s game Portugal vs. Croatia.
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Thursday’s Best 2026 World Cup Picks & Predictions: Portugal vs. Croatia
(Odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook)
Portugal vs. Croatia
All things considered, the group stage was rather disappointing for Portugal. Though the defense held back-to-back opponents to zero goals, the offense only ever showed signs of life against a lackluster Uzbekistan team. With the group up for grabs against Colombia, Portugal was wholly outplayed. Though the game ended 0-0, Colombia finished with 1.70 expected goals, while Portugal had 0.93.
Croatia's group stage wasn't much better. After allowing four goals to England, the offense struggled with Panama's defense, then needed a goal in the 83rd minute to escape with a win over Ghana. Though the Croatians scored twice in that match, they had just 0.42 expected goals.
Portugal should advance, but Croatia has found a way past superior opponents in back-to-back World Cups, so I won't count them out. Instead, I'll play it safe and simply back the Under.
Pick: Total Goals – 90 Minutes: Under 2.5 (-135)
Phil Wood is a featured writer at BettingPros. For more from Phil, check out his archive and follow him @Phil_Wood_Jr.