June 25 FIFA World Cup Predictions: Odds & Betting Tips

The World Cup 2026 group stage continues Thursday with six matches across Groups D, E, and F. Germany and the Netherlands are looking to protect their strong positions at the top of their groups, while the United States has already clinched first place in Group D.

Several teams still have major work to do. Ivory Coast, Japan, Sweden, Australia, Paraguay, and Ecuador all enter their final group match with knockout-stage implications on the line. This is one of the busiest betting days of the group stage, and the smartest approach is to stay selective rather than forcing action across every match.

Betcris Arizona is offering Same Game Parlays for soccer, giving bettors the option of combining multiple selections from one game into a single wager. The choices could include match result, totals, team props, and more. That gives bettors several ways to approach Thursday’s World Cup 2026 group matches.

World Cup 2026 Group Matches Today

Thursday’s schedule begins with two Group E matches at 1:00 PM ET. Curaçao faces Ivory Coast at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, while Ecuador meets Germany at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford.

Group F follows at 4:00 PM ET. Japan faces Sweden at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, while Tunisia meets the Netherlands at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City.

Group D closes the day with two matches at 7:00 PM ET. Paraguay takes on Australia at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, while Türkiye faces the United States at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood.

Today’s World Cup Groups Odds

The World Cup match odds show clear separation in several Thursday matches. Ivory Coast is a -724 favorite against Curaçao, while the Netherlands is -709 against Tunisia. Both favorites are facing teams near the bottom of their groups, but the handicap prices are more reasonable than the moneylines.

Germany is only -106 against Ecuador, which is a more interesting number given Germany’s perfect group-stage start. Germany has six points and a +7 goal difference in Group E, while Ecuador sits on one point and needs a result to stay alive.

Japan is +100 against Sweden in one of the most important matches of the day. Japan has four points and a +4 goal difference, while Sweden has three points after splitting its first two games. The odds respect Japan’s form, but they also show that Sweden’s attacking talent keeps this from being a one-sided market.

Group D has two matches with very different setups. Paraguay is +191 against Australia, while Australia is +292 and the draw is only +117. That draw price reflects the standings, because Australia has three points and a better goal difference than Paraguay. A draw would favor the Socceroos.

The United States is -104 against Türkiye, with Türkiye at +226 and the draw at +311. The USA has already clinched top spot in Group D, while Türkiye has lost both matches and has not scored in the tournament.

The outright World Cup market also gives context. Germany is +1301 to win the tournament, the Netherlands is +1401, the United States is +2918, Japan is +4203, Ivory Coast is +15012, Australia is +20016, Sweden is +25021, Ecuador is +26021, Paraguay is +30025, and Curaçao is +375275.

Early Payout

3-way moneyline betting offers the "early payout" feature. This means if the team you have backed leads by two or more goals at any point during regular time, your bet or leg will be settled as a winner, regardless of the final result. All bets that have not triggered the early payout condition will be settled on the full-time result.

Curaçao vs. Ivory Coast Prediction and Betting Preview

Ivory Coast is a -724 favorite against Curaçao, with Curaçao priced at +1705 and the draw at +694. The total is set at 3 goals, with over 3 at -127 and under 3 at +100. On the handicap, Curaçao +2, +2.5 is -130, while Ivory Coast -2, -2.5 is +102.

Curaçao has one point in Group E after losing 7-1 to Germany and then earning a 0-0 draw against Ecuador. That result was a major moment for the tournament debutants, but the underlying numbers still raise concern. Curaçao conceded 27 shots, 15 shots on target, and 10 corners against Ecuador, with Eloy Room carrying the side through long stretches.

That type of defensive workload is dangerous against Ivory Coast. The Elephants beat Ecuador 1-0 in their opener, then lost 2-1 to Germany on a 94th-minute goal. They have three points and a strong chance to finish second in Group E with a win or draw.

The key issue is whether Curaçao can survive another match with very little possession. The Blue Wave have had only 25% and 35% possession in their two World Cup matches, and this matchup could again become a long defensive stand.

Ivory Coast has more pace, more attacking depth, and more ways to create chances. Amad Diallo, Simon Adingra, Franck Kessié, and Yan Diomande give the Elephants enough quality to eventually wear down a tired back line.

The moneyline is too expensive at -724, but the handicap offers a better price. Curaçao showed heart against Ecuador, but Ivory Coast should create too much pressure over 90 minutes.

Ivory Coast -2, -2.5 at +102 is the preferred bet, with Ivory Coast winning 3-0.

Ecuador vs. Germany Prediction and Betting Preview

Germany is a -106 favorite against Ecuador, with Ecuador priced at +255 and the draw at +278. The total is set at 2.5 goals, with over 2.5 at -126 and under 2.5 at -101. Germany -0.5 is -105, while Ecuador +0.5 is -121.

Germany has already clinched a place in the Round of 32 after beating Curaçao 7-1 and Ivory Coast 2-1. Julian Nagelsmann’s team leads Group E with six points, nine goals scored, and a +7 goal difference. The goal now is to finish the group stage with control and carry momentum into the knockout rounds.

Germany’s recent attacking form is strong. Across the listed last five matches, Germany has scored 17 goals and conceded four. All five matches went over 2.5 goals, and both teams scored in four of five.

Ecuador is in a much more difficult position. La Tri lost 1-0 to Ivory Coast, then drew 0-0 with Curaçao despite controlling much of the match. That leaves Ecuador on one point, and a draw may not be enough to extend the tournament.

The challenge for Ecuador is turning defensive structure into attacking production. Enner Valencia and Moisés Caicedo remain central to the team’s hopes, but Ecuador has not scored in its first two World Cup matches.

Germany has won both previous meetings in the available head-to-head data, beating Ecuador 3-0 in 2006 and 4-2 in 2013. The current form edge also leans heavily toward Germany.

The total is tempting because of Germany’s scoring trend, but Ecuador’s attack has not shown enough to make the over the cleanest play. Germany should have more possession, more chances, and enough quality to win.

Germany -0.5 at -105 is the preferred bet, with Germany winning 2-0.

Japan vs. Sweden Prediction and Betting Preview

Japan is priced at +100 against Sweden, with Sweden at +294 and the draw at +226. The total is set at over 2.5, 3 goals at -105 and under 2.5, 3 at -121. Japan -0.5 is -109, while Sweden +0.5 is -116.

This is one of the most important matches on Thursday’s board. Japan has four points in Group F after a 2-2 draw with the Netherlands and a 4-0 win over Tunisia. Sweden has three points after beating Tunisia 5-1 and then losing 5-1 to the Netherlands.

Japan enters in much better defensive form. The Samurai Blue have scored nine goals and conceded only two across their listed last five matches. They have also allowed both teams to score in only one of those five games.

Sweden brings more volatility. The Swedes have scored 12 and conceded 13 across their listed last five matches. All five went over 2.5 goals, and both teams scored in all five. That makes Sweden dangerous, but also difficult to trust defensively.

Ayase Ueda is the key attacking player for Japan after scoring twice against Tunisia. Daichi Kamada and Junya Ito also scored in that match, giving Japan several ways to attack Sweden’s back line.

Sweden still has major talent with Alexander Isak, Viktor Gyökeres, Dejan Kulusevski, and Anthony Elanga. The issue is whether Graham Potter’s side can tighten up quickly after being pulled apart by the Netherlands.

A draw would likely suit Japan more than Sweden, but Japan has been the steadier team through two matches. Sweden’s scoring profile gives the over some appeal, but Japan’s control and cleaner defensive record point toward the side.

Japan -0.5 at -109 is the preferred bet, with Japan winning 2-1.

Tunisia vs. Netherlands Prediction and Betting Preview

The Netherlands is a -709 favorite against Tunisia, with Tunisia priced at +1524 and the draw at +719. The total is set at 3 goals, with over 3 at -134 and under 3 at +105. Tunisia +2 is +115, while the Netherlands -2 is -146.

The Netherlands sits at the top of Group F with four points and a +4 goal difference. Ronald Koeman’s team drew 2-2 with Japan in its opener, then responded with a 5-1 win over Sweden. That result put the Dutch in position to win the group with a professional result against Tunisia.

Tunisia has lost both matches and is at the bottom of the group with a -8 goal difference. The Eagles of Carthage lost 5-1 to Sweden, then fell 4-0 to Japan. They have also failed to score in four of their last five matches.

That is a major problem against a Dutch side that has found its rhythm. The Netherlands has scored nine goals across its last three matches, and Cody Gakpo has scored four goals in his last three appearances for the national team.

The one caution is motivation and rotation. The Netherlands is in control of the group, and Koeman could manage minutes if the match is comfortable. That may keep the score from getting completely out of hand.

Still, the matchup is clear. Tunisia has struggled to create chances and has already been opened up by both Sweden and Japan. The Netherlands has far more attacking quality, better form, and a clear path to top spot.

The moneyline is too expensive, but the handicap is playable. Even with some rotation, the Dutch should have enough to win by multiple goals.

Netherlands -2 at -146 is the preferred bet, with the Netherlands winning 3-0.

Paraguay vs. Australia Prediction and Betting Preview

Paraguay is +191 against Australia, with Australia priced at +292 and the draw at +117. The total is set at over 1.5, 2 goals at -124 and under 1.5, 2 at -103. Paraguay 0, -0.5 is +123, while Australia 0, +0.5 is -158.

This is the second-place match in Group D. Australia and Paraguay both have three points, but Australia sits above Paraguay because of goal difference. That makes the draw price important, because a draw favors the Socceroos.

Australia opened with a 2-0 win over Türkiye, then lost 2-0 to the United States. Paraguay lost 4-1 to the USA in its opener, then responded with a 1-0 win over Türkiye despite playing the entire second half with 10 men.

Miguel Almirón’s suspension is a key factor for Paraguay. He was sent off against Türkiye, so Gustavo Alfaro must adjust in a match where Paraguay needs a win to guarantee it jumps Australia.

The recent numbers point toward a lower-scoring game. Australia has scored eight and conceded five across its listed last five matches, but only one of those five went over 2.5 goals. Paraguay has scored eight and conceded six across its listed last five, with three of five going over 2.5.

The stakes could make both teams cautious. Australia does not need to chase the match early, while Paraguay has to balance ambition with the risk of leaving space.

The side angle is Australia 0, +0.5 at -158, but the better price is on the total. With Australia comfortable in a draw scenario and Paraguay missing Almirón, this match profiles as tight and low scoring.

Under 1.5, 2 at -103 is the preferred bet, with Australia winning 1-0.

Türkiye vs. United States Prediction and Betting Preview

The United States is a -104 favorite against Türkiye, with Türkiye priced at +226 and the draw at +311. The total is set at over 2.5, 3 goals at -117 and under 2.5, 3 at -109. Türkiye +0.5 is -123, while the USA -0.5 is -104.

The United States has already clinched top spot in Group D after beating Paraguay 4-1 and Australia 2-0. Mauricio Pochettino’s team has six points, six goals scored, and a +5 goal difference. This match is about maintaining rhythm before the knockout stage.

Türkiye has lost both matches and has already been eliminated. Vincenzo Montella’s team lost 2-0 to Australia, then fell 1-0 to Paraguay. The biggest issue has been the attack, as Türkiye has not scored in the tournament.

That is frustrating because the squad has real creative talent. Arda Güler, Hakan Çalhanoğlu, Kenan Yildiz, and Ferdi Kadioglu give Türkiye technical quality, but the final-third production has not matched the names.

The USA has been much sharper. Folarin Balogun, Weston McKennie, Tyler Adams, and the American wide options have given the co-hosts a balanced profile. Christian Pulisic is a note to monitor, but no confirmed absence was listed in the provided team news.

The only concern for bettors is motivation. The USA has already won the group, so rotation is possible. Even then, the Americans are playing at home, have momentum, and face a Türkiye side that has not looked confident in the tournament.

The total is tricky because the USA may rotate and Türkiye has not scored. The cleaner angle is the side. The USA should still have enough quality and energy to finish group play with another win.

USA -0.5 at -104 is the preferred bet, with the United States winning 2-0.

Best World Cup Betting Angles for Today

Ivory Coast is a huge favorite against Curaçao, but the moneyline is too high at -724. Curaçao’s draw against Ecuador was impressive, but the Blue Wave allowed 27 shots and 15 on target. Ivory Coast -2, -2.5 at +102 is the better way to back the Elephants.

Germany is the preferred side against Ecuador. Germany has already clinched, but the attacking form is strong and Ecuador has not scored in the tournament. Germany -0.5 at -105 is the best betting angle.

Japan vs. Sweden is the best match in Group F. Sweden has the attacking talent to threaten, but Japan has been more stable and cleaner defensively. Japan -0.5 at -109 is the preferred wager.

The Netherlands should control Tunisia. The Dutch are coming off a 5-1 win over Sweden, while Tunisia has lost its two matches by a combined 9-1 score. Netherlands -2 at -146 is the preferred bet.

Paraguay vs. Australia looks tight. Australia is in better shape with a draw, and Paraguay is missing Miguel Almirón. Under 2 is the choice in this match.

The USA closes the day against eliminated Türkiye. The Americans have already clinched first place, but Türkiye has not scored in the tournament. USA -0.5 at -104 is the choice here.

How Group Standings Affect Today’s Predictions

Group D is led by the United States, which has six points and a +5 goal difference. Australia is second with three points and a 0 goal difference, while Paraguay has three points and a -2 goal difference. Türkiye is last with zero points and a -3 goal difference.

That makes Paraguay vs. Australia the key qualification match in Group D. Australia is in better shape because a draw keeps the Socceroos second. Paraguay needs a win to guarantee it jumps Australia and reaches six points.

The United States has already clinched top spot, which changes the tone of its match against Türkiye. The USA still has motivation to keep momentum, but it does not need the result in the same way.

Group E is led by Germany with six points and a +7 goal difference. Ivory Coast is second with three points and a 0 goal difference. Ecuador and Curaçao each have one point, but Ecuador has a much better goal difference.

Germany has already secured a knockout place, but a win over Ecuador would complete a perfect group stage. Ecuador likely needs a win to have a strong chance of advancing.

Ivory Coast is in the best position behind Germany. A win over Curaçao would likely secure second place, while a draw could still be enough depending on Ecuador’s result.

Group F remains the most interesting group on Thursday. The Netherlands and Japan each have four points and a +4 goal difference, while Sweden has three points and Tunisia has zero.

Japan vs. Sweden carries the biggest stakes in that group. Japan can move to seven points with a win, while Sweden can jump to six points and put itself through. A draw would help Japan and could still leave Sweden with a strong wild-card case.

The expanded World Cup 2026 group stage sends the top two teams from each group to the Round of 32, along with the eight best third-place finishers.

Daily World Cup Prediction Summary

Thursday’s World Cup predictions begin with Group E. Ivory Coast should have too much attacking quality for Curaçao, even after the Blue Wave’s emotional draw against Ecuador. The handicap is the best way to avoid a heavy moneyline price.

Germany is the pick against Ecuador. Ecuador needs the result more, but Germany has been too strong in attack and should have enough control to win the match.

Japan vs. Sweden is one of the day’s best games. Sweden can score, but Japan has been steadier and should do enough to win.

The Netherlands should handle Tunisia and likely finish top of Group F. Tunisia’s lack of scoring makes the Dutch handicap the preferred play.

Paraguay vs. Australia looks like the tightest match on the board. Australia benefits from a draw, Paraguay is missing Almirón, and the under is the best angle.

The United States should close Group D with another win. Rotation is possible, but the USA has more form, more confidence, and home support against an eliminated Türkiye side.