Matchday One at the 2026 World Cup features 24 matches and we’ve been studying the numbers to pick out our three favourite bets with easyBet Predictions.
With so many matches taking place across just seven days, it can be a bit overwhelming to determine where the value lies. We’ve put in the hard work and, using easyBet Predictions new ‘yes’ or ‘no’ formula towards betting, picked our three best value fancies.
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Here are our three top tips in Matchday One!
easyBet Predictions Matchday One
Group A – South Korea vs Czech Republic (Friday 12th June – 3am)
37% PLACE BETMatchday One at the World Cup always throws up intriguing clashes, and our pick for an early win comes from Group A: South Korea to beat the Czech Republic. easyBet Predictions has the Taeguk Warriors priced at a tempting 37%, meaning a £10 punt could see you bag a tidy £27.03 return. Why are we so confident in the Koreans?
South Korea arrive in North America with a blend of star power and tactical evolution. Led by the irrepressible Son Heung-min, who continues to shine on the global stage, they also boast defensive rock Kim Min-jae and the creative spark of Lee Kang-in. Under coach Hong Myung-bo, they are embracing a more aggressive, front-foot approach, a style that saw them navigate a tough qualifying campaign unbeaten. Their ability to switch formations and adapt will be crucial against a Czech side that, while physical and hardworking, often lacks the technical finesse to break down organised defences.
The Czech Republic rely heavily on key individuals like Patrik Schick, but pace and precision – qualities South Korea possess in abundance – can expose their overall game. With potential altitude and travel challenges for the Czechs, South Korea’s dynamic attack and tactical flexibility give them the edge in this opening fixture . Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to back Asia’s most successful World Cup nation to kick off their campaign with a victory.
Group C – Brazil vs Morocco (Saturday 13th June – 11pm)
44% PLACE BETMorocco proved in Qatar that they are the ultimate tournament disruptors, and the Atlas Lions are primed to cause another stir when they face Brazil in their World Cup opener. While the Selecao naturally arrive as favourites, writing off the North Africans would be a mistake, especially given their tactical discipline and recent history against the South American giants.
Morocco are a side built on a compact, narrow defensive base that frustrates even the most fluid attacking outfits. Under Mohamed Ouahbi, they have maintained the rigid structure and disciplined back-line distances that saw them reach the semi-finals four years ago. It is a collective resilience that Brazil have struggled to break down before; Morocco secured a historic 2-1 victory over the five-time world champions in a 2023 friendly. With Achraf Hakimi and Sofyan Amrabat providing both elite quality and tireless energy, the Atlas Lions have the tools to navigate a difficult Group C opener.
For those looking for value on Matchday One, the Draw or Morocco Double Chance is a compelling selection. Priced at 44% with easyBet Predictions, this trade offers a significant upside if the underdogs can hold firm or snatch a win. A £10 stake on this outcome would see a £23.26 return, making it one of our top picks for the opening round. If you fancy Morocco to keep things tight and frustrate the favourites, this is the way to back the upset.
Group F – Netherlands vs Japan (Sunday 14th June – 9pm)
28% PLACE BETThe Netherlands and Japan kick off their World Cup campaigns in what promises to be a fascinating tactical battle, and there is every reason to believe these two well-drilled sides will cancel each other out. While the Oranje are often associated with expansive football, this current iteration under Ronald Koeman is built on a sturdy defensive foundation. Facing a Japan side renowned for their giant-killing exploits and disciplined shape, a Matchday One draw looks like the smart play for value-seekers.
Japan proved in Qatar that they are masters of the tactical tweak, famously toppling both Germany and Spain with high-energy pressing and clinical transitions. Even without the injured Kaoru Mitoma, the Samurai Blue possess a collective technical quality that can frustrate the very best. They will likely cede possession to the Dutch but remain a constant threat on the counter-attack, forcing a Netherlands back-line led by Virgil van Dijk to remain cautious. With both managers desperate to avoid a damaging opening-day defeat in a competitive Group F, we expect a cagey encounter.
Bettors looking to capitalise on a potential stalemate can back the draw at 28% with easyBet Predictions. This selection offers a significant return for a highly plausible outcome; a £10 stake on the teams sharing the points returns £35.71.Given the defensive solidity of the Dutch and Japan’s tactical discipline, backing the draw provides excellent value.
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