Published Jul 1, 4:24am ET by
Alex Dudley - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer
Last updated Jul 1, 4:24am ET
Credit: Shutterstock
Updated Jul 1, 4:24am ET
One of the standout matchups in the round of 16 stage at the FIFA World Cup is set for July 5, as five-time world champions Brazil come up against dark horses Norway in New Jersey.
Brazil have been unconvincing throughout the tournament, and they will need to raise their performance levels if they are to overcome one of the standout teams at the World Cup this summer.
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|---|---|
| Brazil | -110 |
| DRAW | +260 |
| Norway | +329 |
Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil have won three of their four matches at the World Cup so far this year, but questions are still being asked surrounding the limitations that they have. Midfield is a major concern, with Casemiro proving a weak link in the transitions.
However, the veteran was important in the round of 32 win against Japan, scoring the equalizer before Gabriel Martinelli netted the dramatic winner in the sixth minute of second-half injury time.
It could be argued that Brazil were allowed back into the tie by Japan, as the Asian nation faltered in the second period after easily keeping the South Americans at bay in the opening 45 minutes. A win will be expected by the Brazilian fans, as the five-time champions haven’t suffered elimination before at least the quarterfinal stage since 1990.
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Norway have quickly become one of the fan favorites at the World Cup this summer, with a strong connection between the players and fans being a common part of their fixtures.
Stale Solbakken’s side have won three of their four fixtures, with their only defeat coming against France after making wholesale changes. This weekend, the Vikings will be aiming to reach the quarterfinals of the World Cup for the first time ever, and their chances will be strong based on their attacking threat.
Their offensive quality is headlined by Erling Haaland, who netted the winner in the round of 32 clash against the Ivory Coast in midweek to take his tally for the tournament to five goals in three appearances.
An interesting narrative to this showdown is the fact that Norway are the only team in international history that Brazil have never beaten. The European nation have won two of the four encounters, and that hoodoo for the Brazilians could continue on Saturday. Based on the mobility of the Norwegian midfield and their excellent attacking output, they are the value play in New Jersey to reach the quarterfinals.
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Pick
Norway (+329)
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