The runners-up from the last World Cup will face off against this year’s favorites on Friday.
A Europe vs South America showdown between Croatia and Brazil will decide which nation will be the first to secure a spot in the Semifinals.
Can Croatia return to the World Cup Semifinals? Or will Brazil put in another dominant performance?
Let’s dive into the odds and best bets for this quarter-finals showdown between Croatia and Brazil.
Croatia vs Brazil Odds
- 3-Way Handicap: Brazil (-275) | Draw (+390) | Croatia (+700)
- Draw No Bet: Brazil (-850) | Croatia (+525)
- Over/Under Goals: Over 2.5 (-125) | Under 2.5 (-105)
- To Qualify: Brazil (-650) | Croatia (+375)
Croatia vs Brazil odds are current as of 9 a.m. EST on Dec. 8, at Caesars Sportsbook.
Croatia are not getting any respect in this matchup as Brazil are overwhelming favorites to qualify for the next round at -650. This is likely a testament to how dominant the Brazilians have been at this World Cup and their status as the favorites to win the tournament.
Oddsmakers are expecting a high-scoring game, with the Over 2.5 goals juiced to -125.
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Croatia vs Brazil Prediction
Croatia 1-3 Brazil
The Brazilian attack is clicking on all cylinders right now after putting on a clinical performance against South Korea in the Round of 16.
They should be able to continue this form against a Croatian side that has only conceded two goals in the tournament, but have looked vulnerable at times.
The Seleção should roll in this matchup.
Croatia vs Brazil Betting Tips
With Neymar back in the Brazilian lineup, their offense looks dangerous and in sync. Richarlison and Viníciús Jr. have been great finishers in front of net, and the pace on the outside has caused problems for opposing defenses.
There were doubts about this Brazilian team after their 1-0 defeat against Cameroon in their final group game, but those were erased after thumping South Korea 4-1. Croatia’s defense has been solid so far in this tournament, but looked vulnerable against Belgium and Japan.
In the Round of 16, Japanese attackers were able to find space in the middle of the Croatian defense, which allowed the wingers to provide quality crosses that ultimately resulted in the goal that Japan scored. Brazil will look to exploit those similar weaknesses with balls played in from Raphinha and Viníciús Jr.
Brazil have yet to lose a match against Croatia in all competitions, recording three wins and a draw.
An astounding stat is that seven of Croatia’s last eight knockout round matches, including the European Championships and World Cup, have required extra time. The only exception is the 2018 World Cup Final against France, which was decided in 90 minutes.
However, I do not foresee this match going into extra time, as Brazil should win convincingly in regulation.
Croatia vs Brazil Best Bets
Over 2.5 Goals (-125) at Caesars Sportsbook
WAGER: 1 Unit
With the pace of play that Brazil plays at, there will be goals in this game. The Brazilian back line has been solid, conceding one goal apiece to both Cameroon and South Korea.
Still, the chances have been abundant. Croatia will create opportunities and should get on the scoresheet as well, which will help the Over hit in this match.
