Gross Bombs: NFL Props for Week 16
Josh Gross
The World Cup Final is here after a long wait. Four years ago, France took home the title in Russia, and now they will look to repeat against Argentina in Qatar. Lionel Messi will play his final game for Argentina Sunday as we bid farewell to a legend on the international stage. All eyes will be on this game around the world Sunday.
Final: Argentina vs. France
Argentina defeated Croatia handily 3-0 in the semifinal to make it to the title game off a Messi penalty kick and an Alvarez brace. They surprisingly did not control possession in this game and were outshot by Croatia. I expect them to flip that script and get back on the ball more in this game against a France team that doesn’t need to possess the ball.
France got off to an early lead against Morocco in the other semifinal and — despite some iffy defending — won the game 2-0. They let Morocco hold the ball and used speed up the flanks and Mbappe to counterattack. That is likely going to be their strategy again in this game as it has been for the entire tournament.
I think there will be a lot of end-to-end action in this game with two strong attacking sides. The game will probably start with both teams being conservative, but once we get that first goal, things should open up. It should be an exciting back-and-forth matchup with two worthy teams.
Argentina vs. France Bets
Argentina to Lift the Cup
(-112, FanDuel Sportsbook)
I think Messi and company get it done in this game. France are going for a repeat win, which is exceptionally rare. Only Italy in the 1930s and Brazil in 1958 and 1962 have repeated as World Cup winners. France’s defense will get exposed by Argentina especially if they are able to create as many chances as they have been.
Total goals Over 2.0
(-135, DraftKings Sportsbook)
With two good attacking teams, I think we get at least two goals in this game to force a push at worst with this bet. If this game really opens up or one team becomes desperate, it could turn into a high-scoring affair.
