World Cup Predictions & Tips | Round of 32: Switzerland v Algeria

Match 85: Switzerland v Algeria
Location: BC Place Vancouver
Time: 3:00pm, Friday 3 July
Head to Head: First meeting

Key Stats

• Switzerland has failed to progress in its last 5 knockout matches in this tournament from 1994 onwards
• Switzerland have record 1 clean sheet in their last 9 games
• Over 2.5 goals is 4-0 in Algeria’s last 4 games
• Fares Chaibi recorded 2+ shots in all three group games

Preview

This is the 6th time in Switzerland’s last 7 appearances that they have qualified for the knockout phase but they are 0-5 in their last 5 knockout matches. Four years ago, they were embarrassed 6-1 by Portugal and that was after finishing on equal points with Brazil in the group stage. Qualifying matches are not always the best indicator once we get to the finals as teams play against opponents that are familiar with – no to mention having half the games played at home. With that in mind, Switzerland conceded just 2 goals in 6 qualifying matches but as it stands have record a single clean sheet from their last 9 games.

If we were to list a nation at this tournament that Switzerland is most comparable to with respect to style and ability, Austria would be at the top of the list. This is relevant as Algeria just played them in the final group game and threw us an enormous curve ball. A draw would be enough for both teams to progress but Algeria wanted no piece of it – playing an attacking style from the opening kick. They found themselves behind twice only to get on level terms and them take the lead. Austria would equalise for a draw but the point is that Algeria scored 3 goals against an Austrian side that conceded a total of only 4 goals across 8 qualifying matches.

Over 2.5 goals is 4-0 in Algeria’s last 4 games and they have scored multiple goals in all but one of those games. This one will go against the grain of what the bookies expect with both teams to score in an entertaining contest. Algeria are a good bet to cause an upset.

Player To Watch

Riyah Mahrez showed us that he still has it when he scored a double in the draw with Austria but Austria will have a specific game plan to contain him. That will create more time and space for Fares Chaibi to get into dangerous areas. He has played 90+ minutes in every game thus far and record 2+ shots in all three games.

Betting Tips

Best Bet: Both Teams To Score – YES ($1.91)
Other: Chaibi Fares 2+ Shots ($2.40)
Value: Algeria WIN/Over 2.5 goals ($6.50)
SGM: Algeria Double Chance, Switzerland Most Corners, Over 1.5 goals ($3.44)