After an unlikely trip to the Round of 16, Japan will look to extend their World Cup run when they take on Croatia on Monday, Dec. 5, at Al Janoub Stadium in Qatar.
The Samurai Blue are fresh off an exciting victory over Spain, largely thanks to the play of winger Ritsu Dōan. The 24-year-old is responsible for two of Japan’s four goals during the group stage.
Conversely, Croatia barely escaped Group F after securing a draw against Belgium in their latest match. The Vatreni made it to the World Cup final in 2018 and will look to star midfielder Luka Modrić to lead them back.
Will Japan continue their unlikely run? Or will Croatia find its form and advance to the quarterfinals? Let’s look at current betting odds to find best bets and make a match prediction.
Japan vs Croatia Odds
- 3-way handicap: Japan (+280) | Draw (+225) | Croatia (+105)
- Draw No Bet: Japan (+160) |Croatia (-225)
- Over/Under Goals: Over 2.5 ( +125) | Under 2.5 (-175)
- Both Teams to Score: Yes (+100) | No (-145)
Japan vs Croatia odds are current as of December 2 at 7 a.m. on BetMGM Sportsbook.
Croatia is a modest favorite in their showdown with Japan, with sportsbooks heavily leaning towards the Under.
If looking to bet, there are plenty of worthwhile options from a value standpoint.
- Looking to wager on sports? Head to The Game Day for the latest sports betting odds.
Japan vs Croatia Predictions
Japan 0-1 Croatia
The Vatreni’s defense has been stellar thus far, conceding just one goal through the group stage. In addition, both Japan and Croatia have experienced low-scoring matches to this point.
I expect the same when they square off on Monday.
I am giving the edge to Zlatko Dalić and Croatia due to their talent and experience. As mentioned above, this squad reached the World Cup final just four years ago.
Hajime Moriyasu’s Japan side has performed admirably, but at this point, they are playing with house money. By no means do I expect a one-sided affair, but a Round of 16 exit for a second consecutive World Cup seems likely for the Samurai Blue.
Look for Croatia to outclass Japan with conservative and technical play while dominating possession.
Japan vs Croatia Betting Tips
- Japan averaged 34% possession in the group stage.
- Croatia averaged 52% possession in the group stage.
- All four of Japan’s goals have come within 11 minutes of each other, all in the second half.
- Croatia is one of five teams in the Round of 16 with one or fewer goals conceded.
Japan vs Croatia Best Bet
➕ Multiple Correct Score: 0:1, 0:2, or 0:3 (+230) at BetMGM Sportsbook
WAGER: 2 unit(s)
I would typically recommend a Multiple Correct Score wager (0:1, 0:2, and 0:3), but you can get a better value by sticking with the combined Croatia victory with the under.
Croatia will dominate possession in this match while looking to Andrej Kramarić to reach the back of the net after securing two goals in the group stage.
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