The EV Eagle has three value picks to consider backing on Friday at the World Cup
Aaron Hickey To Be Shown A Card – 0.5pts
Odds Implied: 26.32% | AI Probability: 37.16% | Expected Value: 41.21%**
14/5 with Sporting Index
Hickey was booked in Scotland's opening match against Haiti and faces another difficult assignment here against a technically gifted Moroccan left side.
He is likely to spend much of the game dealing with both Bilal El Khannouss and Noussair Mazraoui, who ranks as Morocco's fourth-most fouled player. The matchup resulted in Brazil's right back finding his way into the referee's book in Morocco's opener.
With Scotland's full-backs encouraged to push high up the pitch, Hickey could be exposed in transition and forced into recovery fouls against two intelligent and skilful opponents.
Hot Streak
Ismael Saibari To Score Or Assist – 1pt
Odds Implied: 44.44% | AI Probability: 46.72% | Expected Value: 5.12%**
5/4 with BetMGM
Saibari arrives in excellent form and continues to be one of Morocco's most dangerous attacking players. He found the net in the opener against Brazil and followed that up with a brace against Madagascar, carrying serious momentum into this fixture.
Ismael Saibari Shots: 3, 1, 0, 3, 2, 2, 1, 0, 4, 1, 5, 4, 3, 4
He also generated 0.71 xG in the opener, highlighting the quality of chances he is getting into. With Morocco expected to control large periods of possession, Saibari should have plenty of opportunities to either score himself or create for teammates.
Folarin Balogun Anytime Goalscorer – 1pt
Odds Implied: 38.46% | AI Probability: 44.06% | Expected Value: 14.56%**
8/5 with AKBets
Balogun was the standout performer in the USA's opening match and looks difficult to overlook after a clinical display in front of goal. He scored twice, registered five shots and looked capable of adding further goals throughout the game.
Five shots in the opener
Two goals in the opener
His brace means he has now scored five goals in his last six international appearances, underlining just how comfortable he looks leading the line for the United States.
With confidence high and the attack seemingly built around him, Balogun looks well placed to add to his tally once again.
