Iran and Morocco are two of the biggest longshots to win the World Cup. In fact, both opened as +25000 World Cup sportsbook betting underdogs. If nothing else that makes for an even matchup. True, neither team is expected to make a deep run. But the chance for a competitive match will bring attention. And also attract betting action. That is what makes the World Cup special. A game between two longshots will still garner attention. Assessing the prospects of such a matchup can be challenging. Which only adds to the appeal.
Iran vs. Morocco
Date and Time: Friday, June 15, 2018, 10 a.m. ET
Location: Russia
World Cup Betting Online Odds at your favorite sportsbook: Morocco – ½ (+134), Iran + ½ (-149), Over 2 (+106)/Under 2 (-121), Morocco +132, Iran +260, Draw +212
2018 FIFA World Cup TV Coverage: Check Listings
Morocco
Morocco is also known as the Atlas Lions. They return to the World Cup for the first time since 1998. It was then that Morocco suffered a heartbreaking defeat. With a shot at the Round of 16 they failed. In 1986 they were the first African team to make the Sweet Sixteen. After 20 years in the abyss the Atlas Lions are thrilled to return. Heavy World Cup sportsbook betting underdog status matters not to them. Reliance on hard work and defense was their path to qualification. While offensively challenged they play with intelligence.
Iran
Iran has a similar history in Soccer’s greatest event. Only once have they made the Round of 16. 1978 was the year of that achievement. Since that high point they have qualified just three times. In 2014 they made it to Brazil. But the Iranians departed with a finish of 28th. Also known as Team Melli this is the first time they qualified twice in a row. A run of 12 consecutive clean sheets punched their ticket. Combining deep defense with quick counter attacks is Iran’s style. Many admire their disciplined playing style.
Head coach Carlos Queiroz
Head coach Carlos Queiroz is acclaimed as a sportsbook online asset for Iran. He has led South Africa, Portugal and Iran to the World Cup. Six years into his Iranian tenure he has accomplished more than any previous coach. Fans worship him as their soccer messiah. His experience with different national teams has proven to be a difference. Despite going undefeated in qualifying Iran is expected to struggle. Goal scoring is the major worry. Top star Sardar Azmoun did not get much help in qualifying. Defenses will key on him as a result.
Head coach Herve Renard
Morocco has long been considered an underachieving team. Talented and with depth they have frustrated fans and gamblers. Midfield creativity is a key strength. Complementing that is a strong and respected defense. Much like Iran scoring is the concern for long term success. Head coach Herve Renard won two African National Cup titles. Zambia and Ivory Coast were the teams he led to glory. He has led the Atlas Lions for two years. Qualifying got him a contract through 2022.
Matchup to Watch
Morocco has the World Cup sportsbook betting advantage based on depth. They bring more overall talent against Iran. Skill should be the difference between teams that struggle to score.
Iran vs. Morocco World Cup Betting Odds Picks
Morocco is the pick to get past Iran!
Iran vs. Morocco World Cup Betting Online Pick: Morocco
Iran vs. Morocco World Cup Betting Online Predicted Score: Morocco 1, Iran 0
Check out Morocco’s road to the World Cup!
