World Cup Best Bets - June 23

France eased to what was ultimately a deserved win in their opener against Senegal as they secured a 3-1 triumph. The French looked disjointed in the first-half but came out swinging in the second-half as Kylian Mbappe struck a second-half hat-trick. Mbappe's exploits showcased just how dangerous France are when they click, and Iraq will need to be very switched on or they will likely take a real hammering. After opening his account for the tournament, I am backing Mbappe to continue to torment defences with another goal. 

Portugal were awful in their opening World Cup match as they failed to pick up the three points they were tipped for against DR Congo. Portugal's woes in front of goal were well documented following their 1-1 draw with DR Congo, with their players likely desperate to make amends and get their first win at the competition. Fortunately for Portugal, they arrive on the back of a six-game unbeaten run that boasts four wins and two draws. Portugal have not kept a clean sheet in any of their last three, and I back Uzbekistan to breach their defence.