World Cup Knockout Round Player Props Picks: Today’s Best Value Plays (7/2)

BettingThePitch

Written by: BettingThePitch

Published: Thu Jul 02, 2026, 8:00 am ET

Read Time: 5 minutes

Will Portugal bounce back with a big win today in the FIFA World Cup? World Cup Picks

FIFA World Cup

As I'm writing this, the United States are leading 1-0 at halftime! Hopefully the boys can finish the job and book their place in the next round.

We've been red hot with the article plays lately, and I'm looking to keep that momentum rolling today. Some major teams and star players take the pitch, and a few spots really stand out to me.

Featured Plays

Mikel Oyarzabal Anytime Goalscorer

Mikel and Spain will look to continue their World Cup run with a knockout matchup vs Austria.

I really like this matchup for Spain.

Austria did well to reach the knockout stage, but I think this is where the gap in quality starts to show. Their only true test during the group stage came against Argentina.

In that match, Austria conceded 2.36 expected goals and lost 2-0. Against Jordan and Algeria, they allowed another 2.13 expected goals combined while conceding four actual goals.

Spain are still searching for their top gear. However, it feels like only a matter of time before everything clicks.

This looks like the perfect spot for that breakthrough.

The books are projecting Spain to score at least two goals, and I agree with that assessment. Austria's back line is below average compared to the teams remaining in the tournament.

The possible absence of David Alaba would only make matters worse.

Oyarzabal has already scored twice in this World Cup. Both goals came against Saudi Arabia.

His overall form has been outstanding. He has scored 11 goals in 11 appearances for Spain this year.

Last season, he added 18 goals for Real Sociedad in La Liga. He also averaged 1.25 expected goals per 90 minutes during World Cup qualifying.

Spain should spend plenty of time in the attacking third. If they do, I expect Oyarzabal to find quality chances inside the box.

Play: Mikel Oyarzabal Anytime Goalscorer (+100)

Bruno Fernandes To Score or Assist

Will Portugal bounce back with a big win today in the FIFA World Cup? World Cup Picks

Portugal will look to get a big win in the Round of 32 knockouts against Croatita.

I have to take this number at plus money.

I believe the market is giving Croatia too much credit while undervaluing Portugal.

Croatia conceded four goals and 3.20 expected goals against England. They narrowly escaped Panama and needed a late winner against Ghana to reach the knockout stage.

Their age and lack of depth have been noticeable throughout the tournament. Those issues could become even more apparent against Portugal.

Portugal have not been perfect, but their performances deserve more context.

Congo proved to be a difficult opponent. Portugal also handled Uzbekistan and earned a scoreless draw against a strong Colombia side.

I believe Croatia will be one of the weaker defenses Portugal have faced so far. That should create opportunities for their attacking players.

Bruno Fernandes has only one assist in the tournament. However, the underlying numbers remain excellent.

He is averaging two chances created per match. He also leads Portugal in big chances created and ranks third in expected goals per 90 minutes.

Portugal are at their best when Bruno is heavily involved. I expect him to see plenty of the ball in this matchup.

In 12 appearances for Portugal this year, he has recorded four goals and three assists. Last season, he produced nine goals and 22 assists in 37 matches for Manchester United.

In his previous meeting with Croatia, Bruno recorded an assist and registered four shots. He was unlucky not to score as well.

Expect him to be at the center of everything Portugal create going forward.

Play: Bruno Fernandes To Score or Assist (+110)

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BettingThePitch
BettingThePitch

Just a guy who loves sports, soccer and beating the books!

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