The World Cup 2018 in Russia could not have come at a better time for punters. National leagues the world over have been heavily lit in the 2017-18 season and new prospects have been popping up everywhere. This season, more than ever, betting companies have roped in teams from even far flung countries so punters already have a picture of what quality of football each participating country is bringing to the table.
As such, punters have an idea of what they are looking at even when they go searching for betting tips.
Furthermore, there are ten new teams making a return to the tournament after an absence, while Iceland and Panama will only be making their maiden appearances. Sweden is one of the countries that is making a return after a lengthy absence having last participated in 2006.
Sweden was already an exciting prospect given their path to qualification- they fought it out with France and The Netherlands before later edging out Ital in the playoffs to book a slot in Russia. Then something, rather someone, happened that has thrown another spanner in the works- Zlatan Ibrahimović!
The former Barcelona, AC Milan, PSG and Man United striker who is now playing his trade in the MLS has tweeted that there is a huge possibility of him playing in Russia. Of course the final decision lies with head coach Janne Anderson, but Zlatan’s hint gives Sweden a whole new boost.
While they have a good striker in John Guidetti, 36-year Zlatan’s character and skill could always be a welcome boost. They had been tipped to progress from a group that also includes Germany, Korea Republic and Mexico- at least as second place finishers. Betting tips writers who may have written them off may just have to edit their articles.
Another exciting player in the national team is RB Leipzig’s Emil Forsberg. The 26 year old winger has been voted midfielder of the year thrice in his Sweden. With a finisher like Zlatan up front, Forsberg’s service will be put to much better use.
Assuming they make it from their group, Sweden will meet one of two qualifiers from Group E which includes Brazil, Switzerland, Costa Rica and Serbia. From that list, Brazil are favourites to finish top so it would help to finish top of their group too. Well, that is a bit ambitious when in the same group as Germany, just as beating Brazil will be tricky. Bar any group stage surprises, it looks like Sweden’s journey in Russia will end at the last 16.
Of course betting is a game of chance and formulation off betting tips is often clouded by emotion. However, factors like a team’s past performances and its players’ club form cut across the board. Sports betting sites invest a lot in this research. You should always make headway by checking out what these sites are recommending and comparing notes.
Since most betting sites are looking to beat you, they will use a betting bonus to entice you. Do not freak away from these bonuses. Rather, take advantage of them to raise your stake and increase your winning edge by beating the house in its own game!