Group C features one of the tournament favorites as Argentina looks to capture glory in Lionel Messi‘s likely final appearance in the World Cup. It would be a major shock to see La Albiceleste fail to win this group.
They are joined by Poland, led by superstar striker Robert Lewandowski. The Poles will likely compete with Mexico for second place in this group. Mexico is dealing with some injuries, namely to winger Jesús Corona, which could weaken their chances.
Saudi Arabia looks to make their first appearance in the knockout stage since the 1994 World Cup, which was held in the United States. It will likely feel as if they’re playing at home since Qatar is a neighboring nation.
Let’s take a look at the World Cup Group C odds and predictions to determine the best bets.
World Cup Group C Winner Odds
- Argentina (-280)
- Poland (+550)
- Mexico (+550)
- Saudi Arabia (+3800)
World Cup Group C odds are current as of 5 p.m. ET on Monday, Nov. 21, at FanDuel Sportsbook.
It’s no surprise to see Argentina come in as -280 favorites, giving them a 73.7% implied probability to win the group. They are currently tied for second-favorites to win the tournament behind Brazil. Argentina comes into the tournament at peak form, riding a 35-game unbeaten streak.
Given their premium talent and current form, it’s hard to see any other team win the group. While you shouldn’t make a habit of laying -200 or shorter odds, this is a case where it looks like the prudent play.
Read all of our World Cup Group Predictions
- World Cup Predictions: Group A
- World Cup Predictions: Group B
- World Cup Predictions: Group D
- World Cup Predictions: Group E
- World Cup Predictions: Group F
- World Cup Predictions: Group G
- World Cup Predictions: Group H
World Cup Group C Preview
Argentina (-280)
Argentina rolls with a 4-3-3 formation, with Messi and Ángel Di María supporting Lautaro Martínez to form a formidable trio that should cause fits to opposing defenders.
Manager Lionel Scaloni has La Albiceleste playing an organized game, as evidenced by their ability to limit goals throughout CONMEBOL qualifying. Opposing teams only managed eight goals in 17 matches.
The South American giants are heavy Group C favorites on World Cup betting sites for a good reason, as they looked poised for a deep run in this tournament.
Poland (+550)
Poland has the star power to help carry them in this group, as Lewandowski remains an elite striker. The team often lines up in a 5-3-2 formation, and they’ll need to make sure that it’s not Lewandowski doing everything on his own, as he does need some support in order to thrive.
The team will be playing without one of their most experienced defenders in Maciej Rybus, who was left off the roster after he decided to join Spartak Moscow in Russia. This could have an impact on the team’s defense, so it’ll be interesting to see how this unfolds.
Poland has a good chance to finish second in this group, which looks like a best-case scenario for them.
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Mexico (+550)
Mexico goes with a 4-3-3 formation and are looking for a better showing at the World Cup following a 2018 Round-of-16 exit in Russia. Losing veteran winger Corona is bad news for this team.
They will need to rely on winger Hirving Lozano to step up in Corona’s absence and carry this offense. The 27-year-old plays for Napoli in Serie A and has drawn interest from big clubs like Manchester United.
Mexico has a strong track record of advancing out of the group stage, but it may prove to be too daunting to win this group given how strong Argentina looks right now.
Saudi Arabia (+3800)
Saudi Arabia are longshots to win this group due to their track record on the international stage. They simply aren’t as talented on paper compared to the other teams in this group, making it difficult for them to even have a chance to finish first here.
Manager Hervé Renard has them primarily lining up in a 4-2-3-1 shape. Look for them to try to play a defensive style against Argentina, as securing a point would be a major victory in that match.
However, we should be mindful of the potential home-field advantage that could help propel the Green Falcons to their most successful World Cup since U.S.A. 1994.
World Cup Group C Winner Best Bet
Argentina (-280)
WAGER: 2 Units
Argentina is considered to be a favorite in every World Cup, but it’s a bit different this time around. While they’ve always had an imposing attack, they now have a stout defense.
Centerbacks Martínez and Cristian Romero are thriving in Manchester United and Tottenham, respectively, forming a strong pairing for Argentina here.
This is a case where it’s understandable to lay heavy juice, as I believe Argentina could be lifting the trophy by the end of this tournament.
World Cup Group C Props
Saudi Arabia to Qualify (+700) at FanDuel Sportsbook
WAGER: 1 Unit
The Saudis have a chance to be a surprise team in this tournament. They performed well during AFC qualifying, winning a group that included Japan and Australia, who are two of the best teams there.
Their entire roster is comprised of players who play in the Saudi Pro League, resulting in existing chemistry that could be beneficial in a tournament setting.
When you add on the potential home-field advantage in neighboring Qatar, you can see why they make for an intriguing dark horse in this group.
