The World Cup is in full swing, and today we have four games featuring action from Groups I and J. We start in the afternoon with Argentina vs. Austria, then France vs. Iraq takes the spotlight before Monday's action finishes with Norway vs. Senegal and Jordan vs. Algeria.
So, let's dive into today's World Cup best bets.
World Cup Best Bets Today
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 |
|---|---|---|
  | 1:00 p.m. | |
| 1:00 p.m. | |
  | 5:00 p.m. | |
  | 8:00 p.m. | |
| 8:00 p.m. | |
  | 11:00 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. | ||
Austria vs. Argentina
Many questioned if Lionel Messi could maintain his elite level after moving to MLS, but his performance against Algeria in the opening match silenced all doubts. He scored a magnificent hat-trick, demonstrating that his goal-scoring instincts are as sharp as ever.
Before the tournament, he was on fire for Inter Miami, netting 13 goals in 16 appearances, proving he is still a clinical finisher.
In that first game, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner was a constant threat. He opened the scoring just 17 minutes in with a classic left-footed strike from outside the box.
His statistics from the match were impressive: 57 touches, seven progressive carries, and six shots totaling an expected goals (xG) of 1.05.
Even at 38, Messi remains a unique talent that Austria’s defense will find incredibly difficult to contain.
Pick: Lionel Messi Anytime Goalscorer (-105)
Austria vs. Argentina
Messi's hat-trick brought his goal tally in the competition's history to 16, tying him with Miroslav Klose for the all-time record. A goal against Austria would make him the undisputed top scorer.
Given his history, betting on him to score first also offers significant value. In the 11 tournament matches where Messi has scored, nine of his goals were the opening goal of the game.
He started fast against Algeria, and if he brings that same intensity, he is a strong candidate to be the first player on the scoresheet again.
Pick: Lionel Messi First Goalscorer (+300)
Iraq vs. France
If France is set for a high-scoring day, Kylian Mbappe is the player most likely to benefit. He began the tournament in top form, scoring twice against Senegal to secure the victory. Those goals brought his average to an incredible 1.03 goals per 90 minutes across 15 appearances in this competition.
Against an inferior opponent like Iraq, Mbappe has the perfect opportunity to add to his tally.
The odds imply a high probability that France will score at least three goals, and as the team's primary attacker and penalty taker, Mbappe is positioned to be on the end of many of those chances.
Pick: Kylian Mbappe 2+ Goals (+235)
Senegal vs. Norway
Norway showcased their offensive strength by putting four goals past Iraq in their opening match, but their defensive record raises questions. Conceding a goal in that game marked the seventh time in their last eight matches that both teams have scored.
Senegal possesses a wealth of attacking talent capable of troubling any defense in this competition. Players like Ibrahim Mbaye, who scored against France, and Iliman Ndiaye provide significant depth and quality in the final third. The ability to bring on such effective attackers late in the game, especially in the demanding North American climate, gives Senegal a major advantage as defenses tire.
On the other side, Norway’s attack is led by the formidable duo of Erling Haaland and Alexander Sorloth. This pairing presents a nightmare for defenders with their combination of strength, speed, and finishing ability. Norway averaged an impressive 4.63 goals per 90 minutes during qualifying and continued that form in their tournament opener. Given these offensive strengths on both sides, backing both teams to score seems like a logical pick.
Pick: Both Teams To Score (-145)
Senegal vs. Norway
Furthermore, Erling Haaland's individual form makes him a prime candidate to score anytime. He has been directly involved in 25 goals (22 goals, 3 assists) in his last 11 competitive matches for Norway.
After scoring twice against Iraq on matchday one, he is a constant threat and Norway's designated penalty taker, adding another potential route to a goal.
Pick: Erling Haaland Anytime Goalscorer (+105)
Algeria vs. Jordan
While Algeria's 3-0 defeat to Argentina was a tough start, the quality of the opposition provides some context. The North African side failed to register a shot on target and produced just 0.32 expected goals (xG), but they face a much more manageable opponent in Jordan. Their attack, featuring talent from top European leagues, will be expected to create far more in this fixture.
Jordan, meanwhile, put up a surprisingly strong fight in their 3-1 loss to Austria. Despite the result, they matched the Austrians in total shots (11) and shots on target (4). This demonstrates the ability to generate offensive pressure, even if the quality of their chances needs improvement.
This match is essentially a knockout game for both sides. A draw does little to help either nation's chances of advancing, so a passive, defensive approach is highly unlikely. Both teams need to go for the win, which supports the case for goals.
Pick: Both Teams To Score (-105)
