World Cup Player Props Picks: Today’s Best Value Plays (6/17)

BettingThePitch

Written by: BettingThePitch

Published: Wed Jun 17, 2026, 8:00 am ET

Read Time: 5 minutes

How far will England go in this World Cup? Can they handle business against Croatia? World Cup Picks

FIFA World Cup

Another beautiful day of World Cup action is here!

Today, we get a few more tournament favorites taking the pitch for the first time. Portugal and England both begin their World Cup campaigns. This could be the final World Cup for Cristiano Ronaldo, and he may have the strongest squad of his career around him. Let's dive into my favorite player props from today's slate.

Featured Plays

Bruno Fernandes To Score or Assist

Bruno Fernandes set the All Time Single Season Assists Record in the EPL this season with 21 - World Cup Dark Horses

Bruno Fernandes set the All Time Single Season Assists Record in the EPL this season with 21

Portugal begin their World Cup against 46th-ranked Congo.

This may not be the walkover some people expect. Congo have improved in recent years and have caused problems for several quality sides.

Still, Portugal are loaded with talent across the pitch. Much of their attack flows through Bruno Fernandes in midfield.

Fernandes is coming off an incredible season with Manchester United. He broke the Premier League assist record with 21 and added nine goals.

In nine appearances for Portugal this year, he has recorded four goals and two assists. The ball is almost always at his feet when Portugal are in possession.

He shoots, takes corners, and controls most set pieces. He also has one of the world's greatest finishers in Cristiano Ronaldo attacking his deliveries.

Portugal should create plenty of chances in this matchup. If they score multiple goals, I expect Fernandes to be involved.

Play: Bruno Fernandes To Score or Assist (-120)

Jude Bellingham 1+ Shot on Target

Jude Bellingham was England's hero in the Round of 16

Can Jude Bellingham be England's Hero in the EURO 2024 Final?

England open their World Cup against an experienced Croatia side.

This England team thrives on possession and midfield control. They consistently dominate the ball and generate a high volume of shots.

Thomas Tuchel has pushed Bellingham into a more advanced role. That change appears to be paying off already.

In England's two friendlies before the tournament, Bellingham recorded two shots in each match. He also put one on target.

Against New Zealand, he played only one half but remained active in the attacking third. His movement and involvement were encouraging throughout.

During World Cup qualifying, Bellingham averaged 1.27 shots on target per 90 minutes. Those numbers support this line nicely.

I expect a strong tournament from the Real Madrid midfielder. His role under Tuchel should continue to create opportunities.

Play: Jude Bellingham 1+ Shot on Target (-110)

James Rodríguez Anytime Assist

James Rodriguez has been involved on most of Colombia's goals

Can James Rodriguez lead Colombia to a deep World Cup run?

One of the game's best creators is back on the World Cup stage.

After Colombia failed to qualify for Qatar 2022, they have returned to where they belong. Once again, they will compete on football's biggest stage.

Rodríguez has delivered countless memorable moments throughout his career. While age may be catching up with him, his vision remains elite.

He recorded assists in both pre-World Cup friendlies. Colombia also enter the tournament with plenty of attacking quality around him.

During qualifying, Rodríguez registered seven assists in 18 appearances. He remained the primary creator for the Colombian attack.

In his short stint with Minnesota United, he averaged 6.5 chances created per 90 minutes. He also ranked second on the team in big chances created despite limited playing time.

Colombia should find success in this matchup. With multiple goals expected, I like Rodríguez to set up one of his talented teammates.

Play: James Rodríguez Anytime Assist (+200)

Still Want More World Cup Content?

Here at Betting News, we offer free expert picks for every major sports league.

We also host daily streams on our Twitch channel. There, we break down our favorite bets and sweat out the action live!

Be sure to check out our content on YouTube, TikTok, and X. You can also follow my personal X account, @BettingThePitch, for additional free plays, World Cup coverage, and tournament content throughout the month.

Check out our World Cup Content Below!

Get FREE Picks and Props Weekly

Sign up for
THE WEEKENDER NEWSLETTER

More Free Betting Tips

BettingThePitch
BettingThePitch

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

This site contains commercial content. We may be compensated for the links provided on this page. The content on this page is for informational purposes only. Betting News makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the information given or the outcome of any game or event.