Early thoughts on World Cup Fantasy Matchday 4

A collection of early World Cup Fantasy thoughts for Matchday 4, which begins on Saturday and lasts until next Tuesday.

So the group stage is almost over, as knockout football begins on Saturday with the round of 16. After the simultaneous nature of final group games, we will return to one match at a time.

With much drama to come, please note that the below thoughts are given a few days in advance.

NETHERLANDS v UNITED STATES

Theoretically, all minnows and weak sides have been eliminated by the point, so the FIFA Fantasy armband decision is much tougher. For example, the Netherlands looked good in Group A, with Cody Gakpo netting on all three occasions.

Yet the United States are a tricky, unbeaten opponent that has only conceded once and scored twice. It could be a low-scoring contest.

ENGLAND v SENEGAL

England assets will be heavily-backed against Senegal. Five attackers have already scored, so it’s tough to predict which two are selected alongside goalless Harry Kane. Probably one plus Marcus Rashford.

Luckily, this game allows managers to correct unsuccessful guesses once the team sheets are released. A defender such as Harry Maguire is nailed-on, clean-sheet worthy and offers an attacking threat at set pieces.

ARGENTINA v AUSTRALIA

The first knockout round allows a maximum of four players per nation, something which should be capitalised upon here. Whilst Australia have done well to win their recent two matches without conceding, opponents Argentina did well to bounce back from their shock defeat to Saudi Arabia.

Owning Lionel Messi, a midfielder and at least one defensive asset is recommended.

FRANCE v POLAND

Of course, there is a huge asterisk next to France’s defeat to Tunisia as it was with progression already secured and a second-string XI taking part. They’ll be delighted to face Poland next – a nation that didn’t concede in Matchdays 1 or 2 but was dire against Argentina.

Therefore, it’s time to pile up on Kylian Mbappe, Theo Hernandez and possibly Olivier Giroud if there’s room.

OTHER MATCHDAY 4 PLAYERS

Four groups are still to be decided, although we already know that Brazil and Portugal are in the next round.

Whilst the South Americans will feel confident against whoever comes second in Group H, Portugal will be nervous about Serbia. A late Aleksandar Mitrovic goal in the final qualifier saw the Serbs pip them to the top spot.

Assets like Richarlison, Alex Sandro, Dani Olmo and Muhammad Kudus will certainly be on the shortlist.

So, let’s enjoy Matchday 4 and grab some Fantasy points!