England stomped their way through the group stage, with the most points and the highest goal difference of any team in the World Cup. Meanwhile, Senegal managed to sneak through with a last-match qualification over Ecuador. See Last Word on Football’s England vs Senegal predictions, and how the tactical battle between the two sides could play out.
England vs Senegal – Predictions and Best Odds
England Current Run of Form
The English come into this match having a good run of World Cup experience behind them. The only disappointment in the tournament was a draw against a surprisingly strong USA side, and even that was enough to effectively get the Three Lions through the group. Control has been the main theme of England’s performances in the tournament so far, with Gareth Southgate adapting to the tactical needs of every opponent.
Senegal Current Run of Form
Senegal are on an interesting run of form at the moment. A loss against the Netherlands were the only dropped points of the group stage, but the African side didn’t manage to keep a clean sheet in any match so far. In spite of the clear strengths that Senegal have, missing Sadio Mane and Idrissa Gueye means that this side could be far more vulnerable against England than in the past.
England vs Senegal Tactics
Gareth Southgate will set up his side to dominate in the middle of the pitch against Senegal. By owning the ball in the midfield, the Three Lions will cycle possession from wing to wing, developing creative opportunities by pulling the Senegalese backline out of position.
Aliou Cisse will gladly play into this. The African side will understand that they have little chance of holding the ball against England and will sit deep waiting to hit on a quick counter. The only alternative is to press the English centre-backs incredibly hard, which is a far riskier approach.
England vs Senegal Prediction
England have a lot of quality on the pitch, and in spite of a strong and stoic Senegalese defence in front of them, they should manage to score the first goal. With Senegal chasing the match, the creativity of Bellingham and Mount in the midfield will have a far better time creating chances. If the Three Lions open the scoring, this could be a comfortable victory.
Current Odds: England vs Senegal
England are favourites at 1/2, with Senegal the distant outsiders at 6/1.
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