World Cup Predictions: Best Bets & Prop Picks for Semifinals
Last Updated: July 13, 2026 7:47 AM EDT • 3 minute read X Social Google News Link
The World Cup semifinals are perfectly poised, featuring four powerhouses in mouthwatering matchups. My World Cup predictions and best bets for the semifinals highlight Kylian Mbappe, France, and the parity that should be front and center in the England vs. Argentina matchup.
England hope to get past the defending champions and make their first World Cup final since winning the tournament in 1966. France, meanwhile, are one win away from advancing to consecutive finals, while Spain are intent on making their first appearance in the showcase event since their 2010 triumph.
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⚽ World Cup predictions for semifinals
See all of our experts' World Cup picks based on the latest World Cup odds and favorites
| 💰 Best bets | 📊 Best odds | ⚖️ Wager (units) |
|---|---|---|
| France to qualify for final | -140 via FanDuel | 1u -> 0.71u |
| England vs. Argentina regulation tie | +210 via BetMGM | 0.5u -> 0.95u |
| Kylian Mbappe anytime goal | +110 via BetMGM | 0.5u -> 0.55u |
Total wagered: 2 units | Max profit: 2.61 units
💰 Best World Cup prediction for semifinals
France to qualify for finals (-140) vs. Spain
While the odds are almost too short to pull the trigger, I've been thoroughly impressed by how France have gone about their business.
They haven't been troubled in any of their previous six matches at any stage, and that includes their 1-0 win over Paraguay in the Round of 16.
The score gives the appearance of being a close match, but in practice France dominated every facet. Beating Spain will never be easy, but France has the perfect balance of expressive offensive talent and a stable, stout rearguard. They've outscored opponents 6-0 in the knockout rounds and 16-2 overall.
Kickoff time: Tuesday, July 14 (3 p.m. ET)
France vs. Spain odds: France (+125) | Spain (+220) | Tie (+220)
How to watch: FOX Sports
💵 SBR Edge: France's overall dominance
France haven't had to get out of third gear, and they have more to give. They're fresh and haven't allowed a goal in three knockout matches.
🔥 More World Cup predictions
England vs. Argentina regulation tie (+210)
This match has extra time, and parity splashed all over it. Two of Argentina's three knockout matches went into extra time, and their tilt against Egypt was minutes away from doing so. The defending champions have endured extended challenging periods, bailed out by individual brilliance.
That's not unlike England, who haven't made any knockout match look comfortable.
They required extra time to get past Norway, held on in Mexico after going down to 10 men and mounted a comeback against DR Congo thanks to their captain's heroics. It will be cagey throughout, and neither team will win in 90 minutes.
Kickoff time: Wednesday, July 15 (3 p.m. ET)
England vs. Argentina odds: England (+155) | Argentina (+187) | Tie (+210)
How to watch: FOX Sports
Kylian Mbappe anytime goal (+110) vs. Spain
Of the most formidable attacking threats in the semifinals, I'm most confident backing Mbappe. The Frenchman has been sensational throughout the tournament, scoring from ridiculous angles and showing unmatched dribbling pace.
The only match at this World Cup in which he didn't score was against Norway, when he notched two assists.
Mbappe netted eight goals in six matches, tied with Lionel Messi. He can create a moment of magic from nothing, which is precisely what the semifinal between France and Spain will probably require to determine a winner.
Gary Pearson X social