After their 3-0 win over Senegal, England have been chalked up at 2/1 to beat France on Saturday and 6/5 to qualify, with the world champions 4/6 to progress.
It’s been a mixed bag in terms of performances for England throughout the tournament. The opener against a respectable Iran side was that of a serious contender, scoring six goals to hammer their opponents, but the follow-up – a dour 0-0 against the USA, where if anything, it was their opponents who looked the more likely – felt like a major setback while the likes of Brazil and France were looking strong.
Even the first half against Wales was a dull affair, but Marcus Rashford’s goal five minutes into the second half opened the floodgates somewhat, with Gareth Southgate’s side running out 3-0 winners.
But the performance against Senegal will give England plenty of confidence. Yes, much tougher tests await, but it could give England a fearlessness and a belief that they can beat anyone at the tournament.
Meanwhile, France - 7/5 to beat England - have looked imperious throughout most of this World Cup with the exception of the Tunisia game when they made nine changes.
After unexpectedly going behind early on, France rallied to score four against Australia, before looking comfortable against Denmark, winning 2-1.
Poland had their moments in the first half against France, but ultimately, the quality of Les Bleus came through, and after the brace from Kylian Mbappe, the PSG man is looking like a solid bet for both the Golden Ball and Golden Boot.
Much was made about Didier Deschamps' management and France's unrelenting injury list, but there are still world-class performers for the world champions, and they've got the individual quality - as well as the experience - to go all the way.
However if the Three Lions can get past France to set up a likely encounter with either Spain or Portugal, they’ll see absolutely no reason why they can’t go all the way.
Odds correct at time of publishing.
