Our football expert Evan Psarras with his thoughts on the Round of 16 clash between Switzerland and Colombia.
Match 96: Switzerland v Colombia
Location: BC Place Vancouver
Time: 8:00am, Wednesday 8 July
Head to Head: Switzerland Wins (0), Colombia Wins (2), Draws (0)
Key Stats
- Switzerland are 0-5 in their last 5 Round of 16 matches in this tournament
- Colombia have scored at least once in 13 of their last 15 games
- Colombia has conceded 2 goals in their last 7 matches in this competition
- Luiz Diaz have averaged 4.0 shots per game in this tournament
Preview
If there was an award for the team that plays the most entertaining brand of football Colombia would win it. The scoreboard in their win over Ghana may have read only 1-0 but they were dominant. They had 20+ shots for a third consecutive game and have made it clear that they will not be taking a back seat. Colombia have now scored at least once in 13 of their last 15 games and have kept things ultra-tight at the back with 2 goals in their last 7 matches in this competition.
Like Colombia, the Swiss took an early lead in their Round of 16 match against Algeria and it allowed them to play at their desired tempo – patient build up, set the defensive lines and give the opposition their own half. They picked Algeria off early in the second half as well and coasted to a 2-0 win. It was at routine as it gets but was only their second clean sheet in their last 10 games. This stage has been Switzerland’s kryptonite as they are 0-5 in their last 5 Round of 16 matches in this tournament.
Colombia have gone into lockdown mode since their opening 3-1 win over Uzbekistan. Under 1.5 goals is 3-0 in their last 3 games with both teams to score failing to hit in each match. Dating further back, Under 2.5 goals is 5-1 in their last 6 matches in this competition. Switzerland are winless in their last 3 against South American nations in this competition (1 draw, 2 losses) and I do not like their chances if they are required to chase the game at any point. There have been plenty of goals in the knockout stages but this one will buck the trend. Colombia 1-0.
Player To Watch
Luis Diaz has brough his club form with him to the international stage. The Bayern Munich star may only have 1 goal and 1 assist next to his name for the tournament but has been a constant menace for opposing defence. He has constantly stretched them and found space which has seen him unleash 16 shots. Could have scored a handful of goals by now and is a great option for SGM’s.
Betting Tips
Best Bet: Under 2.5 goals ($1.57)
Other: Colombia WIN ($2.30)
Correct Score: Colombia 1-0 ($7.00)
SGM: Colombia Double Chance, 1st Half Under 1.5 goals, Luis Diaz 4+ Shots ($4.05)
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