To say that England needs a win against Montenegro is like saying the World Cup is a pretty big event. Yeah, major understatement.
World Cup betting odds: England vs. Montenegro qualifying preview
England is under pressure from tiny Montenegro in World Cup qualifying odds this week. They are favored but need a win to remain atop Group H.
Buda Mendes
In England's last three matches against Montenegro, there have been three draws. If they do draw again -- or worse, if they lose -- they could get bumped from top spot in their qualifying group. Ukraine would need to defeat Poland, and they are the home favorites, to leapfrog England and take over the top spot in the group.
Both teams need a win and should attack from the opening whistle. Wayne Rooney scored the lone goal in the 1-1 draw in Montenegro, and he is playing well and is healthy. He is the player the Montenegro defense really must key on.
With three straight draws against the Three Lions, Montenegro is not afraid of England, in spite of what the soccer betting lines say. And striker Stevan Jovetic recently stated, “I think they have more pressure than us because they are expected to win -- and expect to win. The fact that we have drawn three times with England gives us confidence for this game.”
England is in first place in Group H with 15 points, and Montenegro and Ukraine have 14 points. Poland is still alive with 13 points.
England is at home in this World Cup qualifying match, and they are big betting favorites. They were favored midweek at -250 at most sportsbooks monitored by the Odds Shark World Cup odds section, with Montenegro at +700 and the draw line at +350.
England has scored the most goals in the group (25) and they have conceded the fewest (three). In group play, Montenegro has scored 15 goals and allowed eight.
England has a much better midfield, and it is key that Montenegro does not allow them to dominate the time of possession.
