Co-hosts Canada looking for first-ever World Cup win.
Canada and Qatar’s goal struggles point to low-scoring match.
Pressure on Canadian striker Jonathan David to regain form.
Co-hosts Canada are looking to jumpstart their World Cup against Qatar after a disappointing 1-1 draw against Bosnia & Herzegovina. While it earned Canada its first-ever World Cup point, the result didn’t reflect the domination the North Americans achieved throughout the game. Meanwhile, Qatar’s surprising draw against Switzerland has them firmly in the qualification hunt.
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The complexion of Group B changed with Canada and Qatar both drawing their first games, when a win and a loss, respectively, were expected. If Qatar can squeeze out another draw against the other top team in the group, they’ll set themselves up for a chance at qualification if they can best Bosnia & Herzegovina in the final match. Qatar were never going to go all-out attack against Canada, but they should be even more defensively minded.
With Switzerland on the horizon, Canada needs a win here if they are to push for first place. So once again, expect a lot of Canada in possession, looking to find holes in Qatar’s back line. Cyle Larin, who scored the goal that rescued a point for Canada, should return to the starting lineup after being a surprise omission in the opener. Larin’s physicality should be key as Canada tries to wear down Qatar.
Canada (-360)
Playing in front of its fans, with a chance to stay on home soil for the Round of 32 if it tops Group B, all the pressure is on Canada. But Jesse Marsch’s side should step up. They are likely to be far more clinical in front of goal compared to their first game. Qatar should be vulnerable to Canada’s attacking options. They were lucky to escape with a point against Switzerland after allowing 27 shots and 10 on target.
Under 2.5 Goals (+110)
This World Cup hasn’t been short of goals so far, but we’re seeing a low-scoring affair between Canada and Qatar, with Canada trying to break down a determined Qatar side. Neither side has routinely been involved in games with lots of goals of late. In fact, 10 of the last 11 Canada matches have gone under 2.5 goals. Qatar, meanwhile, have been part of games that finished below 2.5 five out of the last six.
Davies’ health could be a big factor, as the Bayern Munich star’s speed and creativity could overwhelm lesser foes. But he’s more likely to play as an impact sub if Canada are struggling. So with odds of +100 at FanDuel, one of the top World Cup betting sites, we’ll stick with the under for Thursday’s game.
Jonathan David (+115)
David, Canada’s all-time goal scorer, should’ve easily added to his tally against Bosnia & Herzegovina. The Juventus striker should’ve found the back of the net with an open chance in the 17th minute, but instead hit it right at the keeper. It’s the continuation of a cold stretch for David, and comes off a disappointing first campaign for Juventus.
That doesn’t stack up to an attractive bet on first look, we admit. But David is still Canada’s most proven goalscorer, and its designated penalty taker. He’s also known as “The Iceman” for a reason, always cool under the biggest pressure. This is the most important World Cup game for Canada in its history, and with only a few goals expected, we’ll back David to break his slump.
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