Monday afternoon sees a crucial game in the World Cup Group E, as South Korea and Ghana clash in a vital encounter.
South Korea form guidePaulo Bento’s side produced an understated performance against Uruguay in their World Cup opener but will be more than happy with a goalless draw against such tough opponents. The draw keeps South Korea’s last 16 hopes alive for sure.
A win in this game could well be massive. A win is not out of the question, as South Korea haven’t been defeated in their last five matches. They also have a solid defensive record, as they have conceded goals in just two of their previous seven games.
However, if they are to progress from the group, then they will have to improve their recent record in World Cups, as they have claimed just one win from their last ten matches.
Ghana form guideOtto Addo’s team lost 3-2 to Portugal in their opening game of Qatar 2022. However, they came out of the game with lots of positives, as they faced one of the outsiders to lift the trophy.
Despite the defeat by Portugal, the Black Stars have still won five of their last eight international matches.
They will have to end a four-game winless run in the World Cup if they are to put themselves back into contention for a last-16 place, however. A defeat would see the African side eliminated from the competition.
Latest team newsNeither team has any reported absentees through injury or suspension, so both could line up as they did in the opening games of the tournament.
What am I backing?Both teams have been hard to beat of late, and South Korea are particularly well-drilled in defence. I believe this will be a tight and low-scoring game, likely producing under 2.5 goals.