The opening days of the FIFA World Cup often produce surprises, but the latest set of fixtures appears to favour the stronger sides. France, Norway, Argentina and Austria all enter their respective matches with clear objectives and varying levels of expectation.

France vs Senegal

France begin their campaign as one of the tournament favourites. With a 12.9% pre-tournament chance of lifting the trophy and one of the deepest squads in world football, they are expected to top Group I.

Senegal, however, are not an opponent France can afford to underestimate. Physically strong, well-organised and dangerous on the counter-attack, they possess enough quality to frustrate elite sides. Their best chance lies in disrupting France’s rhythm and capitalising on set pieces.

The key battle will be whether Senegal can limit the space available to France’s creative players. Over 90 minutes, though, France’s superior depth and technical quality should gradually take control.

Prediction

France 2-0 Senegal

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Iraq vs Norway

Norway may not receive the same attention as Europe’s traditional powers, but they arrive at this World Cup with an impressive tournament profile. Their probability of reaching the latter stages places them among the stronger second-tier nations in the competition.

This match is crucial. Norway will likely see second place in Group I as their realistic target behind France, making three points against Iraq extremely important.

Iraq are expected to defend deep and play with discipline, hoping to stay in the game for as long as possible. Their challenge will be coping with Norway’s physical presence and attacking threat.

Norway should dominate territory and chances, although Iraq’s organisation could keep the scoreline respectable.

Prediction

Iraq 0-2 Norway

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Argentina vs Algeria

Argentina begin their tournament as one of the leading contenders for the World Cup. Only Spain, France and England rate higher in the tournament projections.

Algeria have the technical quality to compete for periods, but this is one of the largest mismatches among the opening fixtures. Argentina’s control in midfield, defensive stability and attacking depth should allow them to dictate the game from start to finish.

Algeria’s best opportunities will come through transitions and isolated moments, but sustaining pressure against an elite side is a different challenge altogether.

Argentina may not need to be spectacular. A professional performance should be enough to secure a comfortable victory.

Prediction

Argentina 3-0 Algeria

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Austria vs Jordan

This could prove one of the most important matches in Group J outside of Argentina’s fixtures.

Austria enter the tournament as favourites to finish second in the group and will view this as a must-win game. Their structured pressing, disciplined organisation and superior player quality give them the edge.

Jordan have earned respect through resilience and tactical discipline. They are unlikely to make life easy for Austria and will probably focus on staying compact and attacking on the break.

The game may remain tight for long periods, but Austria’s greater attacking quality should eventually make the difference.

Prediction

Austria 1-0 Jordan

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Final Predicted Scores

Match Prediction France vs Senegal 2-0 France Iraq vs Norway 0-2 Norway Argentina vs Algeria 3-0 Argentina Austria vs Jordan 1-0 Austria