World Cup Predictions & Expert Picks: Today's Best Bets & Prop Picks for Semifinals
Last Updated: July 15, 2026 3:02 PM EDT • 3 minute read X Social Google News Link
The World Cup semifinals (finally) get underway today, and my World Cup predictions and best bets for the semifinals highlight a superstar goalscorer while breaking down two incredibly close games as France and Spain clash for one spot in the final today, and find out their opponent tomorrow when England and Argentina tussle.
France, meanwhile, are one win away from advancing to consecutive finals, while Spain are intent on making their first appearance in the showcase event since their 2010 triumph. England hope to get past the defending champions and make their first World Cup final since winning the tournament in 1966.
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⚽ World Cup predictions for semifinals
See all of our experts' World Cup picks based on the latest World Cup odds and favorites.
| 💰 Best bets | 📊 Best odds | ⚖️ Wager (units) |
|---|---|---|
| France to qualify for final | -140 via FanDuel | 1u -> 0.71u |
| England vs. Argentina regulation tie | +210 via BetMGM | 0.5u -> 0.95u |
| Kylian Mbappe anytime goal | +110 via BetMGM | 0.5u -> 0.55u |
Total wagered: 2 units | Max profit: 2.61 units
💰 Best World Cup prediction for semifinals
France to qualify for finals (-140) vs. Spain
While the odds are almost too short to pull the trigger, I've been thoroughly impressed by how France have gone about their business.
They haven't been troubled in any of their previous six matches at any stage, and that includes their 1-0 win over Paraguay in the Round of 16.
The score suggests a close match, but in practice, France dominated in every facet. Beating Spain will never be easy, but France has the perfect balance of expressive offensive talent and a stable, stout rearguard. They've outscored opponents 6-0 in the knockout rounds and 16-2 overall.
Our Gordon Burnt breaks the game down further in his France vs. Spain prediction piece.
Kickoff time: Tuesday, July 14 (3 p.m. ET)
France vs. Spain odds: France (+125) | Spain (+220) | Tie (+220)
How to watch: FOX Sports
💵 SBR Edge: France's overall dominance
France haven't had to get out of third gear, and they have more to give. They're fresh and haven't allowed a goal in three knockout matches.
🔥 More World Cup predictions
England vs. Argentina regulation tie (+210)
This match has extra time, and parity splashed all over it. Two of Argentina's three knockout matches went into extra time, and their tilt against Egypt was minutes away from doing so. The defending champions have endured extended challenging periods, bailed out by individual brilliance.
That's not unlike England, who haven't made any knockout match look comfortable.
They required extra time to get past Norway, held on in Mexico after going down to 10 men, and mounted a comeback against DR Congo thanks to their captain's heroics. It will be cagey throughout, and neither team will win in 90 minutes.
Our Philip Wood has a different take on this game that he breaks down in his World Cup parlay for the semifinals.
Kickoff time: Wednesday, July 15 (3 p.m. ET)
England vs. Argentina odds: England (+155) | Argentina (+187) | Tie (+210)
How to watch: FOX Sports
⚽️ More World Cup predictions for Wednesday
Our Gordon Brunt expects a different result after 90 minutes in his England vs. Argentina prediction.
Kylian Mbappe anytime goal (+110) vs. Spain
Of the most formidable attacking threats in the semifinals, I'm most confident backing Mbappe. The Frenchman has been sensational throughout the tournament, scoring from ridiculous angles and showing unmatched dribbling pace.
The only match at this World Cup in which he didn't score was against Norway, when he notched two assists.
Mbappe netted eight goals in six matches, tied with Lionel Messi. He can create a moment of magic from nothing, which is precisely what the semifinal between France and Spain will probably require to determine a winner.
Want more Mbappe? My best Kylian Mbappe player props have you covered.
🎟️ England vs. Argentina betting insights
Betting insights via BetMGM, last updated at 2 p.m. ET.
| Market | Odds | Tickets | Handle |
|---|---|---|---|
| England to qualify | -125 | 59% | 67% |
| Both teams to score | -105 | N/A | 99% |
Most-bet anytime goal-scorers
| Rank | Player | Odds |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lionel Messi | +160 |
| 2 | Jude Bellingham | +250 |
| 3 | Harry Kane | +150 |
| 4 | Julian Alvarez | +300 |
| 5 | Enzo Fernandez | +700 |
Most-bet first goal-scorers
| Rank | Player | Odds |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lionel Messi | +380 |
| 2 | Harry Kane | +350 |
| 3 | Jude Bellingham | +550 |
| 4 | No goal-scorer | +500 |
| 5 | Julian Alvarez | +675 |
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