With the quarter-finals fast approaching, countries will be dreaming of World Cup glory.
Just two games stand between each team and the final, but ill-discipline could dash their hopes as yellow cards are not wiped clear until after the upcoming round of matches.
The final game on Saturday sees Russia play Croatia, where no fewer than 13 players currently sit on a booking, knowing one more yellow means they will miss the semi-final should their side qualify.
Getty Imagesbet365’s quote of 6/5 (2.20) on there being under 3.5 cards in the match could prove fruitful for punters, with key players on both sides desperate to avoid picking up a booking that would see them ruled out.
Both Aleksandr Golovin and Fedor Smolov are on bookings for the hosts and should either - or both – see yellow in Sochi, they will miss a semi-final showdown against England or Sweden.
Similarly, Croatia have eight players in the same situation, with Ivan Rakitic, Sime Vrsaljko, Ante Rebic and Mario Mandzukic all in jeopardy of missing out on the next match.
The eight cautions received by Zlatko Dalic’s men is the most of any side left in the World Cup, although half of those came in the bad-tempered 3-0 win over Argentina in the group stages.
bet365 also offer 5/6 (1.83) on no card being shown before the 31st minute, a play which would have landed in three of Russia’s four games and in two of Croatia’s matches.
Both teams trying not to commit fouls could lead to an open game, too, and this makes over 2.5 goals at 8/5 (2.60) another tempting shot, along with both teams to score at 6/5 (2.20).
Odds correct at the time of writing. Please gamble responsibly.
Under 3.5 cards at 6/5 (2.20) for a 1.5pt stake with bet365