World Cup 2022 preview: Betting tips, predictions, latest odds and FREE BETS – winner, Golden Boot and specials

THE 2022 World Cup in Qatar is less than 20 days away as Gareth Southgate’s England look to secure their first major trophy since 1966.

And here, SunSport takes a closer look at the latest betting odds, tips, predictions, bonuses and special offers ahead of the winter tournament.

When and where?

The opening fixture between Qatar and Ecuador takes place at Al Bayt Stadium on Sunday, November 20.

There will be four fixtures each day for the first 12 days of the competition — all taking place at 10am, 1pm, 4pm and 7pm UK time.

The final group matches will be played simultaneously at 3pm and 7pm.

It’s the first time that the tournament has been held in the Middle East, and domestic leagues will have to pause to allow it to be played in cooler temperatures.

The last Premier League fixture will be played on November 13, giving England’s players just eight days to prepare for their opener against Iran.

It’s a similar story in Spain, Germany, Italy and France.

The knockout stages begin on Saturday December 3, with the final due to take place at the Lusail Stadium in Doha on December 18.

Who are the favourites?

Five-time winners Brazil are currently favourites at 4/1.

The South American heavyweights haven’t tasted World Cup glory since 2002 but boast a stacked squad that features Neymar, Vinicius Junior, Alisson and Richarlison.

Holders France are well fancied at 11/2 and have the likes of Kylian Mbappe and Paul Pogba at their disposal to become only the third side in history to defend their crown.

Lionel Messi’s Argentina are further behind at 13/2, just ahead of Spain at 15/2.

England, who are also 15/2, have been inching closer to international success having reach the semi-finals in Russia before losing to Italy on penalties at Euro 2020.

2014 champions Germany are available at 9/1, ahead of the Netherlands (13/1) and Belgium and Portugal (16/1).

Our tip — Spain to win the World Cup: 15/2 – Back with Paddy Power here

Golden Boot winner

England talisman Harry Kane leads the way in the battle for the coveted Golden Boot at odds of 7/1 with Sky Bet.

Kane, 28, won the award at the 2018 World Cup after netting six, and could fill his boots in the group stages against Iran and the USA.

Superstar Kylian Mbappe is next at 8/1 after scoring 39 goals in 46 appearances for PSG last season, while he’s already notched 17 times this term.

He also boasts 28 goals in 59 games for France, and could do damage against Tunisia, Denmark and Australia in Group D.

It’s no surprise to see Mbappe’s compatriot and Ballon d’Or winner Karim Benzema next at 12/1, along with global superstar Lionel Messi.

Ronaldo finished as the top scorer at the European Championship with five goals — that’s despite Portugal’s elimination in the Round of 16.

He’s offered at 16/1, along with Romelu Lukaku and Neymar. Richarlison, Diogo Jota and Lautaro Martinez are tied with several other players at 25s.

Our tip — Karim Benzema to win the Golden Boot — 12/1 – Back with Sky Bet here

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