The World Cup Round of 16 sees two heavyweights stake their claim as favorites on Sunday, with Brazil taking on Norway and England facing Mexico.
Our team of experts has a pick for each match, so let's dive into today's World Cup best bets.
Today's World Cup Best Bets, Expert Picks
The team logos in the table below represent each of the World Cup matchups that our staff is targeting from today's slate. Click on the team logos for any of the matchups below to navigate to a specific bet discussed in this article.
| Game | Time (ET) | Pick |
|---|---|---|
  | 4:00 p.m. | |
| 4:00 p.m. | |
  | 8:00 p.m. | |
Specific betting recommendations come from the sportsbook offering preferred odds as of writing. Always shop for the best price using our World Cup odds page, which automatically surfaces the best lines for every game. | ||
Brazil vs Norway Best Bet
Brazil brings a formidable attack to the contest. Carlo Ancelotti's side has scored nine goals from a 9.42 xG, demonstrating their ability to consistently create high-quality chances. Vinicius Jr. has been in stellar form, while the team has found the net in 12 consecutive outings.
However, they have shown a tendency to start slow, conceding first against both Morocco and Japan. With just two clean sheets since November 2025, Brazil's defense looks susceptible to the kind of rapid counter-attacks that Norway, led by the prolific Erling Haaland, can execute.
This combination of high-powered offense and questionable defense on both sides makes a high-scoring game with goals from both teams a strong possibility.
Pick: Both Teams To Score – Yes (-133, bet365)
Brazil vs Norway Best Bet
This pick is rooted in the offensive firepower and defensive frailties of both squads. Norway has been a revelation offensively, scoring 10 goals in their four matches from an expected goals (xG) figure of 8.32.
Only three nations have been more prolific in the competition. However, their defense has been a concern, having conceded 8 goals and allowed 59 shots, which is among the highest totals in the tournament.
In fact, every one of Norway’s four matches in North America has seen both teams score and a total of over 2.5 goals.
Pick: Over 2.5 Goals (-138, bet365)
Mexico vs England Best Bet
A measured start is expected from both teams. This has been a recurring theme for England, as three of their four matches in the tournament were level at the break. Even in their Round of 32 match against DR Congo, where they conceded an early goal, England controlled the first half with 1.32 expected goals (xG) to DR Congo's 0.66, suggesting they methodically build into games rather than seeking an early knockout blow.
For Mexico, the circumstances point to a conservative opening 45 minutes. The pressure of a home knockout match at the Estadio Azteca is immense, and their primary goal will be to maintain defensive structure and settle any nerves.
Against a team with England's offensive quality, taking unnecessary risks early on would be a poor strategy. Mexico has yet to concede a goal in the entire tournament, a record built on disciplined defending that they will rely on heavily in the first half.
Pick: Half-Time Result: Draw (+100, bet365)
