The World Cup group stage continues on Friday with four crucial matches across the United States, as teams look to secure their path to the knockout rounds. The United States face Australia in Seattle, while five-time champions Brazil meet Haiti in Philadelphia, and Morocco take on Scotland in Boston. Turkiye and Paraguay also clash in Santa Clara.
USA vs Australia: Hosts Eye Second Win
Both teams started their campaigns with wins, but the co-hosts are clear favorites. According to the Opta supercomputer, the USA have a 58.5% chance of victory after 25,000 simulations, while Australia are given just a 20.6% chance. A draw is rated at 20.9%. The US will be boosted by home support but await fitness news on captain Christian Pulisic.
Brazil vs Haiti: Selecao Overwhelming Favorites
Brazil have won all three previous meetings, scoring 17 goals and conceding just once. The Opta supercomputer gives them an 87.3% chance of winning, with Haiti at 4.3% and a draw at 8.4%. Brazil sit well placed in Group C despite a draw in their opener, with a 90.3% chance of reaching the last 32.
Scotland vs Morocco: Atlas Lions Aim to Repeat History
Morocco defeated Scotland 3-0 in their only World Cup meeting in 1998. The Opta supercomputer gives Morocco a 54.2% chance of victory, with Scotland at 20.9% and a draw at 24.9%.
Turkiye vs Paraguay: First World Cup Meeting
Both sides seek a crucial result after long absences from the tournament. Turkiye are slight favorites at 49.4%, Paraguay at 23.7%, and a draw at 26.9%.
Other News: Canada Win but Lose Kone
Canada thrashed Qatar 6-0 to move close to the knockout stage, but midfielder Ismael Kone suffered a broken leg and underwent surgery. Mexico became the first team to qualify for the knockout rounds with a 1-0 win over South Korea. Bosnia's viral anthem "I Am From Bosnia, Take Me to America" has become a cultural phenomenon.