2018 FIFA World Cup: Colombia and England Close Out the Round of 16
- Colombia and England kick off at 2:00 pm EST Tuesday July 3rd
- England finishes 2nd in Group G with their only loss coming to Belgium
- Colombia finishes 1st atop Group H after a poor start versus Japan
The 2018 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 closes with a clash between Colombia and England on Tuesday, July 3rd at 2pm EST.
The Colombians
The 16th-ranked Colombians finished first in a tricky group featuring 8th-ranked Poland, Senegal, and Japan. Colombia lost their first match to Japan, however played without Carlos Sanchez who received a red card at the third minute.
Colombia followed up their loss with a decisive 3-0 win over Poland. This saw Colombia play the soccer that we expect: fast moving possession leading to a relentless attack. Colombia finished the group phase with a 1-0 win over Senegal.
Colombia will rely heavily on the attacking prowess of Mina, Falcao, Quintero, and Rodriguez. Each of these players has the pace and skills to attack from anywhere on the pitch. They are world class counter attackers and switch the field quickly. Colombia was at their best when they faced Poland, winning in decisive fashion.
Star player James Rodriguez suffered a calf injury in the match against Senegal. If Rodriguez is deemed unfit to play, Colombia’s attack will be less intimidating to the English.
The Three Lions
England had the luxury of knowing they had qualified before playing Belgium. Both managers rested key players, with the English essentially resting their starting lineup.
The English boast a young, fast, exciting squad with only five returning players from the last World Cup. The English revival is led by captain Harry Kane and his tournament-leading five goals. Harry Kane was rested against Belgium and will be looking to continue his run for the Golden Boot against Colombia.
The English squad is filled with English Premier League stars: Phil Jones, Gary Cahill, Jamie Vardy, Ashley Young, Marcus Rashford, Raheem Sterling, and Jesse Lingard. The depth of this squad and the ability to implement impact subs could lead to Colombia’s demise.
World Cup Stats
| 2-0-1 | Record | 2-0-1 |
| 5 | Goals Scored | 8 |
| 2 | Goals Allowed | 3 |
| 3 | Goal Differential | 5 |
| 25/8 | Total Shots/Shots on Target | 42/15 |
| 51% | Possession % | 55% |
| 11 | Corners | 17 |
Columbia vs England Opening Odds
| MONEYLINE | Spread | Total |
|---|---|---|
| Columbia +300 | +1/2(-130) | 2(even)o |
| England +110 | -1/2(+110) | 2(-120)u |
Betting Advice and Outcome
Pick: England +110
Colombia will be in danger if James Rodriguez is unfit to play. Just as the team looked to be playing up to form, this injury would significantly derail Colombia’s chances. Pair that with their questionable defensive capabilities, and the outlook is in favor of England.
England needs to start the game quick and attack Colombia’s defense, to ensure everyone is back in form after a one game rest. Harry Kane will continue his quest to lead England to the quarter finals for the first time since 2006.
I predict a 2-1 game with Harry Kane scoring both goals.
From hockey to football, to basketball, baseball, soccer, and rugby, Cory is on top of it all. He grew up playing sports, has worked around them ever since (including as a talent scout), and is one of SBD's most experienced bettors.
