Sunday at the World Cup: Germany kick-off their title defence
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The week might be coming to an end but the World Cup is only just warming up.
Today brings three more games to enjoy. Costa Rica and Serbia get things started. Then Germany begin their title defence against Mexico.
The action ends with Brazil looking to put down a marker against Switzerland. We’ve got a full preview of that one right here.
Get comfortable and tuck into our tips of the day’s first two fixtures…
Costa Rica v Serbia (1:00pm)
Brazil are the clear favourites to win Group E, but second spot is up for grabs. This match could play a big part in deciding who makes the last-16.
Serbia’s side is packed with talent from Europe’s top leagues. They’ve only lost one competitive game since 2015, while Costa Rica have lost six of their last eight outings.
We’ve got Serbia as 10/11 favourites. It’s worth bearing in mind that Costa Rica have fired a blank in four of their previous seven games too. It’s 15/8 that Serbia Win to Nil here.
After helping to fire Fulham to promotion, Alexander Mitrovic will lead the line for Serbia. It’s Evens that he takes 4+ shots at the Samara Arena.
Nemanja Matic will be patrolling the midfield for Mladen Krstajic’s side. We go 17/20 that the Manchester United man wins 3+ tackles.
Germany v Mexico (4:00pm)
Germany’s preparations haven’t quite gone to plan. Die Mannschaft have only won one of their six games since the end of qualifying.
But it’s hard to see beyond the holders here. They’re 1/2 to start with a win.
Mexico haven’t hit the back of the net in three of their last four games. Both Teams to Score – No is 10/11.
After missing the last World Cup and Euro 2016 through injury, Marco Reus will be desperate to make his mark on the tournament. The Borussia Dortmund forward is 13/8 to get on the scoresheet.
Even if Mesut Ozil isn’t fit to start, Germany will have plenty of attacking talent on the field. Germany and Over 2.5 Goals is 6/5.
Click here for the latest World Cup odds.
All Odds and Markets correct as of date of publication
