FIFA Club World Cup Picks and Predictions

[SBR Andy]

Thursday FIFA Club World Cup betting insights from BetMGM:

Most bet Anytime goalscorer (tickets)
1. Erling Haaland +110
2. Omar Marmoush +195
3. Phil Foden +275
4. Kenan Yildiz +360
5. Randal Kolo Muani +275

[SBR Andy]

RB Salzburg vs Real Madrid picks from SBR's Gary Pearson for Thursday's Group H finale. Real Madrid only needs a draw to secure top spot in the group.

FC Salzburg vs. Real Madrid prediction: Real Madrid -1.5 (-125 via bet365)
Over/Under prediction: Under 3.5 goals (-115 via DraftKings)
Best player prop pick: Jude Bellingham anytime goal (+190 via DraftKings)

Best bet: Real Madrid -1.5 (-125 via bet365)

"After a sluggish start against Al Hilal to open their Club World Cup, Real Madrid were at their effervescent best against Pachuca despite having to play a man down for most of the match.

Winning a match while shorthanded is about as challenging as solving a Rubik's Cube in 83 minutes, the duration Real Madrid battled the Mexican side with 10 men. The oppressive humidity in Charlotte, N.C., compounded matters for Alonso's men.

Those towering impediments, however, barely slowed the Galacticos, who still managed 51% possession, at times playing keep-away like a run-of-the-mill training drill.

While confidence is never an issue, they will enter Thursday's match with even more self-belief, particularly after overcoming such adversity in Alonso's second match at the helm.

RB Salzburg, a perennial contender in the Austrian Bundesliga, played well in their first two matches of the tournament but are facing a Real Madrid side gaining momentum at the opportune moment.

If the game script goes as I envision, RB Salzburg will be chasing the match and forced to open up. That will be fatal, with Real Madrid punishing them with the final dagger, winning by at least two."

[SBR Andy]

Wednesday FIFA Club World Cup betting insights from BetMGM:

[SBR Andy]

Juventus vs Manchester City picks from SBR's Gary Pearson ahead of Thursday' s Group G match. Man City needs a victory to take 1st place and avoid a likely matchup with Real Madrid in the Round of 16.

Juventus vs. Manchester City prediction: Manchester City to win (-130 via BetMGM)
Over/Under prediction: Over 2.5 goals (-118 via bet365)
Best player prop pick: Erling Haaland anytime goal (+120 via DraftKings)
Best long-shot prop: Ilkay Gundogan anytime goal (+700 via DraftKings)

"While stranger things have happened, I cannot conceive of Real Madrid failing to take first place in Group H. They play RB Salzburg, and a draw will suffice.

That little nugget makes all the difference when forecasting Juventus vs. Manchester City, as it makes the Group G showdown as meaningful as a knockout contest.

And when it comes to high-stakes affairs, few teams are more clutch, experienced, and efficient as the Cityzens.

Both teams have been as good as each other at the tournament thus far, but City are rounding into top form, and their new signings have already made a notable impact.

Pep Guardiola changed his entire starting lineup against Al Ain, showcasing the embarrassment of riches he has at his disposal. They'll be fresh, confident, and in the mood to show their might against a fellow European behemoth.

In addition, City lost to Juventus 2-0 in December in the Champions League. That will further fuel City's motivation, and I expect Pep's side will, this time, finish in the ascendancy."

[SBR Andy]

Inter Milan vs River Plate picks from SBR's Gary Pearson for Wednesday night's Group E match. Both teams are tied atop the group standings.

Inter Milan vs. River Plate prediction: Draw (+210 via bet365)
Over/Under prediction: Under 2.5 goals (-125 via DraftKings)
Best player prop pick: Lautaro Martinez anytime goal (+190 via FanDuel)

"River Plate sit in second place in Group B of the Argentine Primera Division, with 31 points from 16 matches. They've lost just one match in that competition but have already amassed seven draws.

Marcelo Gallardo's side tied Monterrey 0-0 in the last match, making it three ties from their previous four in all competitions.

Inter Milan required a 92nd-minute winner against Urawa Red Diamonds and haven't reached their peak yet at the Club World Cup. Their match against River Plate has all the makings of a defensive stalemate.

Time and space will be at a premium between two teams known for their ability to limit chances and defend in numbers. Even if Inter Milan snatches victory, I can't see the combatants combining for more than two goals.

My prediction is a 1-1 draw, but I wouldn't be surprised to see Inter Milan prevail 1-0."

[SBR Andy]

Borussia Dortmund vs Ulsan picks from SBR's Gary Pearson for Wednesday's Group F match. Dortmund needs a point to qualify for the Round of 16.

Borussia Dortmund vs. Ulsan prediction: Borussia Dortmund -2 (+140 via BetMGM)
Over/Under prediction: Over 3.5 goals (+115 via DraftKings)
Best player prop pick: Serhou Guirassy anytime goal (-135 via FanDuel)

"Borussia Dortmund haven't quite reached top gear at Club World Cup, but I expect that to change against Ulsan. They were, however, at their irrepressible best going forward against Mamelodi Sundowns in the 4-3 victory.

While they were underwhelming defensively, Niko Kovac's men were more confident in possession, appearing on the verge of recapturing the unbeatable form in which they finished the European campaign.

The culmination of that season included six successive victories. Before the defensive meltdown against the scintillating Sundowns, Borussia Dortmund kept three clean sheets in the previous four.

Ulsan, who have suffered two defeats, won't be up to the adrenaline-fueled, feverish pace that a highly motivated BVB should play at."

[k13]

Bayern thought they were good after winning 10-0.
Should have saved some of those goals.

[k13]

Miami is +1600 vs PSG
LoL

[SBR Andy]

LAFC vs Flamengo picks from SBR's Gary Pearson for Tuesday night's Group D match. Flamengo has already secured top spot in the group.

LAFC vs. Flamengo prediction: Draw (+270 via DraftKings)
Over/Under prediction: Under 2.5 goals (-106 via bet365)
Best player prop pick: Olivier Giroud 1+ shot (-130 via BetMGM)

"Flamengo have enjoyed an exceptional start to their Club World Cup campaign, even securing first place in the group with a match to spare. I'm a big proponent of Flamengo and like their chances of making a deep run.

However, Luis - who has lost just three matches in 47 since taking the helm at the Brazilian club - will almost assuredly rest several players from his starting 11. He has bigger fish to fry and cannot risk injury or fatigue, especially in Orlando's oppressive humidity.

That should open the door for an LAFC team with nothing to lose, who should be able to express themselves unencumbered and free.

While Flamengo is the better team at full strength, I expect LAFC to restore some pride with a hard-fought draw, which won't cause Luis any sleepless nights.

Flamengo should keep things tight and simple with a second-rate starting 11. LAFC haven't scored yet in the tournament, and while they should finally find their range, expecting them to score two or more goals is ambitious."

[SBR Andy]

Esperance Tunis vs Chelsea picks from SBR's Gary Pearson for Tuesday night's Group D match. Chelsea needs 1 point in order to advance to the Round of 16.

Esperance Tunis vs. Chelsea prediction: Chelsea to win & Esperance not to score (-120 via BetMGM)
Over/Under prediction: Over 2.5 (-145 via DraftKings)
Best player prop pick: Liam Delap anytime goal (+120 via FanDuel)

"Even if the Blues don't source their elite best, the gulf in class should be too vast for Esperance Tunis to conjure a historic result.

The Tunisian side finished second in the 2023-24 CAF Champions League and have made a good account of themselves thus far, securing all three points against a subpar LAFC side.

However, they aren't ruthless enough in front of the goal to make the one, possibly two, chances they'll potentially create against Chelsea count.

Meanwhile, Chelsea won't be in the mood to suffer a humiliating premature departure from the Club World Cup, and I expect them to shut up shop defensively while securing a comfortable 3-0 victory.

I'm as excited about the -120 odds at BetMGM as I am about the forthcoming knockout phase. DraftKings offers -150, which would be my limit for playing the prop. It's also the ideal opportunity for Liam Delap to bag his first Chelsea goal."

[SBR Andy]

Benfica vs Bayern Munich picks from SBR's Gary Pearson for Tuesday's Group C match:

Benfica vs. Bayern Munich prediction: Draw (+220 via BetMGM)
Over/Under prediction: Under 2.5 goals (-112 via bet365)
Best player prop pick: Harry Kane anytime goal (+140 via DraftKings)

"Bayern Munich will likely go deep into this tournament. As one of the favorites, they have every chance of winning it all. Under ordinary circumstances, I'd back them to beat Benfica, too. However, I'm leaning on the occasion and situation.

Both teams would be happy with a draw as it would mean Bayern Munich win the group while Benfica qualify in second spot. Bayern Munich need at least a point to secure the top spot in the group, which they won't let slip through their fingers.

That said, I can see Vincent Kompany either rotating his starting lineup or making several substitutions to rest some of his most influential players as they prepare for the knockout phases.

Benfica demonstrated a remarkable amount of heart and resilience to overcome a 2-0 deficit against Boca Juniors in their opening match. I don't see them throwing away that impressive result against a Bayern team that might take their eye off the prize momentarily."

[k13]

Couldn't have been a better scenario, bet365 pays out Miami win and they choke and now have to face PSG.
Hopefully they finally get a proper spanking.

[k13]

How are books putting out these odds on Miami against these mid teams?

[k13]

Inter Miami down to +350 from +575.

Miami lose and they play PSG.
That would be fun.

Miami getting a cheap penalty should not be a surprise.

[SBR Andy]

Inter Miami vs Palmeiras picks from SBR's Gary Pearson for Monday night's Group A match:

Inter Miami vs. Palmeiras prediction: Draw (+140 via BetMGM)
Over/Under prediction: Under 2.5 goals (-200 via DraftKings)
Best player prop pick: Lionel Messi goal (+340 via FanDuel)

"Inter Miami and Palmeiras are tied at the top of Group A with four points, and both will advance with a draw. While Palmeiras have more quality and a superior rearguard, I'm backing Inter Miami to do what they did in the first two matches.

They're playing at home and have the world's most impactful and influential player in tournaments of this format despite being 37. They also have momentum and confidence, and I'd be surprised to see Palmeiras open up and play expansively considering what's at stake.

I'm confident both teams will settle for a point.

Palmeiras are the only team in the tournament that has kept two consecutive clean sheets, and it might take a Lionel Messi moment of magic to break through.

Inter Miami, meanwhile, was much more compact as a unit against FC Porto and can make life challenging for Palmeiras. I'm backing a 1-1 draw at BetMGM, which offers the longest odds at our best sports betting apps."

[hassmp]

A.Madrid vs Botafogo :

Im backing the Over 2.5. To have any chance of advancing , A.Madrid must score 3 themselves. Should be plenty of space to counter as well.

Scoring 3 goals against Botafogo won't be easy.

[franz555]

A.Madrid vs Botafogo :

Im backing the Over 2.5. To have any chance of advancing , A.Madrid must score 3 themselves. Should be plenty of space to counter as well.

[SBR Andy]

Atletico Madrid vs Botafogo picks from SBR's Gary Pearson for Monday's Group B match:

Atletico Madrid vs. Botafogo prediction: Atletico Madrid (-140 via DraftKings)
Over/Under prediction: Under 2.5 goals (+100 via bet365)
Best player prop pick: Julian Alvarez anytime goal (+137 via bet365)

"I backed Atletico Madrid in best Club World Cup odds and prop bet picks. While they started tragically against PSG, Simeone's team were much better against an inferior Seattle Sounders side in the subsequent encounter.

While the temperature isn't expected to exceed 77 degrees, it should still be a grueling affair between two sides known for their defensive prowess and gamesmanship.

While Atletico packs a punch offensively and has evolved since their lock-it-down days, I don't anticipate many goals.

Botafogo is stubborn, well-drilled and will keep things tight throughout. And they're coming off a historic 1-0 win over PSG, so confidence won't be lacking. I suspect Atletico will need to score first to win, which, barring a nigh-impossible implosion from PSG against Seattle, they must do.

A win will guarantee safe passage into the Round of 16, and I expect them to do just enough. Look for a defensive classic, with Atletico prevailing 1-0.

DraftKings' odds aren't spectacular by any means, but they offer more value than the rest of our best sports betting apps, with FanDuel and Caesars' -160 odds representing the least value."

[SBR Andy]

Seattle Sounders vs PSG picks from SBR's Gary Pearson for Monday's Group B match:

Prediction: PSG to win to zero (-118 BetMGM)

Best Bet: Goncalo Ramos Over 1.5 shots on target (-105 FanDuel)

"I had trouble choosing which pick to feature as I'm highly confident about both four-star plays. However, I settled on Goncalo Ramos to secure at least two shots on target due to its sky-high value. Through PSG's first two matches, Ramos has three shots on target in 121 minutes.

He's averaging 2.29 shots per 90 minutes at the Club World Cup while securing 2.45 in Ligue 1, 2.10 in the Champions League, and 1.84 in the Coupe de France.

That's promising consistency in several competitive competitions, and I expect him to have all sorts of joy against an outmatched and unconfident Sounders team.

It would be a different story if PSG had already secured a place in the knockout phase. The value offered by FanDuel is also exquisite compared to other sports betting apps.

At bet365, the prop is offered at -175. I'd play this pick to no shorter than -140."

[SBR Andy]

Manchester City vs Al Ain FC prediction from SBR's Gary Pearson for Sunday's Group G match:

Manchester City -2.5 goals (-118 FanDuel)

"City's opening 2-0 victory over Wydad AC was more comfortable than the scoreline suggested. They should have been up three or four at the interval but rued some missed sitters. Guardiola didn't start Erling Haaland or Rodri, both of whom came on in the final third of the match.

They should start on Sunday.

While I'm not comparing Juventus to Manchester City, there were some key takeaways from the Old Lady's 5-0 demolition of Al Ain.

The Asian champions were second-best throughout and struggled defensively in all facets, particularly in the air and with Juvents' quick interchanging.

That's an ominous proposition with Haaland lurking. City will be focused on being more clinical in front of the goal, which Haaland should also help with. Al Ain will give it everything, but the discernible class gulf should be apparent throughout.

I expect a 3-0 City victory, with Haaland to score at least one if he starts."

[SBR Andy]

Real Madrid vs Pachuca predictions from SBR's Gary Pearson for Sunday's Group H match:

Real Madrid win & Under 3.5 goals (+110 DraftKings)

"Despite his exceptional resume, Alonso is not a miracle worker. It will take some time to instil his philosophy while getting the players to adopt his approach. Alonso didn't employ his usual three center backs in the opener; instead, he opted for four at the back, as Carlo Ancelotti had used previously.

While Madrid had their chances to win the opener, missing a penalty in the final minutes, they appeared stagnant, especially without the ball.

That will change under Alonso, but it will take time. I expect the team to improve but not to the standard most expect when watching the Galacticos.

Additionally, Kylian Mbappe is unlikely to play after being admitted to the hospital for gastroenteritis. They have more than enough players to produce, but they'll miss their most lethal scoring threat.

Pachuca lost their first game 2-1 to RB Salzburg and, for the most part, were second best. Still, they're scrappy and stubborn enough to keep this one competitive."

[pavyracer]

Both winners on Dortmund game.

[SBR Andy]

Mamelodi Sundowns vs Borussia Dortmund picks from SBR's Gary Pearson for Saturday's Group F match:

Prediction: Dortmund win & Over 2.5 goals (-130 via DraftKings)

"Dortmund were way off the pace in their opener against Fluminense, appearing rusty and about as sharp as a 10-year-old butter knife. I'm giving them the benefit of the doubt, though.

With that subpar warm-up out of their way, I suspect they'll come to life against a Mamelodi Sundowns team looking to pleasantly surprise those who appreciate an underdog story.

While the South African Premier Soccer League champions will likely batten down the hatches and make life as challenging as possible, I can't see Dortmund passing up this opportunity to prove its superiority.

Dortmund entered the tournament on a six-game winning streak, including a Champions League semifinal second-leg triumph over Barcelona. I'm surprised I can snag the Dortmund and Over 2.5 combined goals parlay at reasonable odds of -130."


Best Bet: Serhou Guirassy to score (-120 FanDuel)

"Like the rest of his team, Guirassy looked sluggish in the opening game. Hopefully he gets a good sleep on Friday and downs four Red Bulls in advance of Saturday's kick-off, as the match represents a rare opportunity against a rearguard that can't match his overall quality.

The Dortmund players are technically superior and were in a rich vein of form before the tournament after netting at least three goals in six straight matches.

Guirassy also enjoyed a prolific run to cap off the campaign, scoring in five consecutive Bundesliga outings while bagging a hat trick against Barcelona."

[Optional]

maybe the issue is not rain but lightning

Another “adverse weather alert” with no bad weather. These guys are more paranoid then a virgin on her first date. Worst part is World Cup is coming… ugh!

Drives me mad when they delay NASCAR races all the time due to risk of lightning.

Do they do this outside the USA? Not down here.

[Headsterx]

What’s going on in Benfica game

Another “adverse weather alert” with no bad weather. These guys are more paranoid then a virgin on her first date. Worst part is World Cup is coming… ugh!

[pavyracer]

Palmeiras v. Al Ahly is a joke. It's not even drizzling and they've interrupted the game.

maybe the issue is not rain but lightning

[Optional]

What’s going on in Benfica game

Took a while to warm up

[Chiefs83]

What’s going on in Benfica game

[SBR Andy]

Bayern Munich vs Boca Juniors picks from SBR's Gary Pearson ahead of Friday's Group C match:

Prediction: Bayern Munich win & Under 3.5 goals (+100 DraftKings)

"Bayern Munich have won five of their previous six matches, keeping a clean sheet in every victory. While they're enjoying a high-scoring, sound defensive run, Boca Juniors represents an intriguing test for the kings of the Bundesliga.

The Argentine side is tied for first in the Argentine Primera Division after losing just three of 16 matches. Despite their position atop the domestic league, Boca Juniors failed to score more than one goal in the four matches leading up to the tense 2-2 draw against Benfica on Monday.

That lack of offensive bite combined with Bayern's offensive dynamism should facilitate a 2-0 victory."


Best Bet: Harry Kane anytime goal (-150 FanDuel)

"I couldn't believe Kane failed to score when Bayern Munich bagged 10 goals. It was as astonishing as seeing butchers, bakers, and candlestick makers suit up for Auckland City. Not scoring should add fuel to Kane's goal-scoring fire.

And he was given chances. The England captain whiffed on a sitter early in the first half and should have scored at least two.

He'll be perfectly suited to thrive against a physical side like Boca Juniors, as Kane uses his body and positioning to protect the ball better than most and plays his best in chippy affairs.

Kane scored 38 goals over 47 matches this season, including 11 during 13 Champions League tilts."

[SBR Andy]

Flamengo vs Chelsea prediction from SBR's Gary Pearson for Friday's Group D match. Winner will advance to the knockout round.

Who will win: Draw (+270 bet635)

"Flamengo are flying, making them an ideal pick for a flyer. Since Luis started pulling the strings as head coach, they have won 32 of 46 matches, losing only three times.

It's an incredible start to Luis' managerial career, and he will be eager to outdo Chelsea and their seemingly bottomless pockets.

Flamengo played some of the best football of the tournament in their opener, albeit against a markedly inferior Esperance Tunis team. However, based on their current irrepressible mid-season form, I expect them to provide the Blues with a stern test, with both teams sharing the spoils.

While Chelsea secured a 2-0 victory over LAFC in their opener, they weren't as dominant as many expected. Chelsea's new marquee signing, Liam Delap, might make his first start for the Blues, but I expect it to take a few games before he finds his rhythm with his new team.

I'm banking on a hard-fought, evenly contested 1-1. bet365 offers the longest odds, while Caesars is at the other end of the spectrum at +250."


Best Bet: Under 2.5 goals (-110 BetMGM)

"Flamengo is an excellent defensive side, and they don't usually score a bucket of goals. Nine of the previous 13 matches in all competitions had two goals or fewer. They are by far the stingiest defence in the Brasileiro Serie A, having allowed only four goals in 11 matches.

While the top Brazilian division may not be at the Premier League's level, it is a highly competitive league that shouldn't be underestimated.

Meanwhile, five of Chelsea's previous six matches have gone Under. If my match prediction is correct, it will be a tightly contested contest where defense reigns supreme. BetMGM offers the best price."

[SBR Andy]

Botafogo pulls off the upset over PSG! They were as high as +2200 a few days prior to the match and closed at +900.

[Headsterx]

Palmeiras v. Al Ahly is a joke. It's not even drizzling and they've interrupted the game.

[SBR Andy]

Paris Saint-Germain vs Botafogo prediction from SBR's Gary Pearson for Thursday's Group B match:

Best bet: Desire Doue Over 1.5 shots on target (+105 BetMGM)

"While Doue had one shot on target against Atleti in the opener, it's his increased production in the Champions League that drew me to the prop.

Doue had 2.07 shots on target per 90 minutes in Europe's elite competition. That's where he enjoyed his most productive outings, and he should get a few decent looks against a slightly weaker Botafogo side. The one cautionary note is whether he'll be on the pitch long enough to hit the Over.

If PSG opens a two or three-goal lead, Luis Enrique will most likely opt to rest Doue."

[SBR Andy]

Seattle Sounders vs Atletico Madrid prediction from SBR's Gary Pearson for Thursday's Group B FIFA Club World Cup match:

Atletico Madrid win & Seattle not to score (+100 BetMGM)

"The Sounders made a good account of themselves in the opener, losing 2-1 to Botafogo at home despite carrying the play for extended periods. Their lack of quality in front of goal cost them dearly, putting them in a deep and dark hole with Atleti and PSG as their final two opponents.

The Rave Green have lost three matches on the bounce, and I don't see that changing against a highly motivated Atleti side that will be hellbent on proving how much better they are than the first match showed.

It won't be nearly as hot either, which will help them maintain their high-tempo possession game.

Atletico won't be unnerved by playing in Seattle. They are a seasoned Champions League squad that knows how to win in every imaginable environment, and they won't let their guard down after being uncharacteristically humiliated."

[SBR Andy]

Inter Miami vs FC Porto prediction from SBR's Gary Pearson ahead of Thursday's Group A match:

FC Porto to win (-160 BetMGM)

"FC Porto are by no means the cream of the European crop, finishing third in Portugal's Primeira Liga after an uninspiring season devoid of a major trophy.

They were also second best for large portions of their 0-0 opener against Palmeiras, relying heavily on Claudio Ramos, who made some critical saves to preserve the draw.

However, FC Porto have more quality throughout their lineup than Inter Miami, especially at the back. Inter Miami is prone to conceding goals, allowing 26 in the 10 prior to their opener against Al Ahly FC. And if you watched that match, you'll know how lucky they were to walk away with a clean sheet.

This should be a tight match, probably decided by one goal, but the European side should prevail."


Best bet: Samuel Aghehowa to score (+115 FanDuel)

"As touched on before, Inter Miami escaped with their lives in the opening 45 minutes of the tournament. Thanks to keeper Oscar Ustari, who made eight saves, the Herons made it to the interval without conceding.

Many of those eight stops were a high degree of difficulty, including a penalty against Trezeguet, which he anticipated correctly.

Inter Miami is not known for its defensive prowess, as demonstrated by their 10-match run without a clean sheet before the opening Club World Cup match.

Aghehowa should be primed to take advantage of that susceptible rearguard. He scored 25 goals in all competitions this season and was at his most prolific in the Europa League, where he netted six in nine matches."