World Cup Knockout Round Player Props Picks: Today’s Best Value Plays (7/6)

BettingThePitch

Written by: BettingThePitch

Published: Mon Jul 06, 2026, 10:23 am ET

Read Time: 5 minutes

Will Balogun find the back of the net again for the United States as they face Bosnia tonight? United States Bosnia Picks

FIFA World Cup

What a match we witnessed last night at the Azteca between Mexico and England!

It may very well go down as the match of the tournament. The funny part is that most people, myself included, expected a cagey and low-scoring affair.

Instead, we got a thriller.

That's the beauty of this game.

Today, we're hoping for more fireworks as Portugal face Spain and the United States take on Belgium. Before we get into the plays, I only have one thing to say:

WHY NOT US?

Featured Plays

Cristiano Ronaldo Anytime Goalscorer

Can Cristiano Ronaldo lead Portugal to a win today over Uzbekistan? World Cup Picks

Can Cristiano Ronaldo find a goal for Portugal today against Spain?

I'm putting the fanboy hat aside for this one and focusing strictly on the value.

Yes, Spain have been excellent. They have yet to concede a goal in this tournament. Portugal have also looked underwhelming at times.

None of that changes who Cristiano Ronaldo is.

We're talking about one of the greatest goalscorers in football history. We're also talking about one of the biggest matches of his legendary career.

Ronaldo is averaging 0.77 expected goals per 90 minutes at this World Cup. That number is higher than players such as Harry Kane and Mikel Oyarzabal.

He has also accumulated 3.0 expected goals during the tournament. That ranks among the best totals in the field and sits just behind names like Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé.

The opportunities are still there. Ronaldo continues to find dangerous positions and quality chances.

Most importantly, he still looks capable of finishing them.

This won't be an easy matchup for Portugal. However, they remain one of the most talented squads in the tournament.

An early goal could completely change the complexion of this match. If that happens, both teams should have opportunities going forward.

Ronaldo will get his chances. At nearly 2/1 odds, I'm willing to back him to find the net.

Play: Cristiano Ronaldo Anytime Goalscorer (+175)

Folarin Balogun Anytime Goalscorer

Will Balogun find the back of the net again for the United States as they face Bosnia tonight? United States Bosnia Picks

Balogun is back for the United States in a massive knock out match!

He's back.

Unless you've been completely disconnected from football over the last 24 hours, you've seen the news. Folarin Balogun is available for the United States today.

That is a massive boost.

You could argue Balogun is the most important player in this squad. His movement creates space for teammates and constantly stretches opposing defenses.

I also believe Belgium should not be favored in this matchup.

Their path to the quarterfinals has been far from convincing. More importantly, their weaknesses remain obvious.

Belgium's midfield lacks defensive structure. That could be a major problem against the pace and athleticism of the United States.

The Americans thrive in transition. They have the midfield quality to win the ball and attack quickly.

That's exactly where Balogun becomes dangerous.

He is averaging 1.2 goals per 90 minutes at this World Cup. He has also scored four goals in seven appearances for the United States this year.

Belgium's last match against Senegal offered a blueprint. They conceded 3.58 expected goals and struggled to contain direct attacking play.

Ismaïla Sarr caused problems all match long. Sadio Mané also found success attacking down the flank.

Now Belgium have to deal with Christian Pulisic.

If Pulisic can consistently beat Timothy Castagne in one-on-one situations, opportunities should open up inside the box. That's where Balogun does his best work.

I expect the United States to create chances. If they do, I like Balogun to be the one finishing one of them.

Play: Folarin Balogun Anytime Goalscorer (+165)

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BettingThePitch
BettingThePitch

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

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