The previous World Cup delivered unforgettable moments from start to finish. But with hundreds of interesting storylines, we also find standout moments soccer and betting fans will never forget. Nitrobetting narrows down the list and dives deep into the thrilling minutes of the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

Looking Back At 2018 FIFA World Cup

READ MORE: 2018 FIFA World Cup Flashback

Defending champions crash out

The drama between Germany and Sweden in the group stage led many to believe that the 2014 champions might peak on route to the final. However, one of the greatest upsets in World Cup 2018 and the history of the tournament happened between the Germans and the South Koreans. With the game at a deadlock and the four-time champions needing a win to qualify, Young-Gwon Kim found the back of the goal. Five minutes later, Son Heung-Min fired into an open net following a failed approach by Manuel Neuer. The results meant that Germany left before the second stage.

Even though the 20-time World Cup attendees failed to make their mark in the 2018 edition, they join the tournament as +400 favorites to reach the final.

It’s coming home

England broke its lengthy streak of losing penalties at a World Cup against Colombia in the Round of 16. David Ospina denied Jordan Henderson’s penalty to get ahead of Gareth Southgate’s men. Kieran Trippier kept his team alive shortly after.

But, Jordan Pickford was the match hero after keeping out Carlos Bacca’s rocket of a shot–leaving Eric Dier an open runway. The entire nation went crazy, followed by England’s incredible run to the semi-finals. With a similar squad entering Qatar this year, England is at the top three of the favorites list as +300 winners.

The comeback is real for Belgium

2022 sees Belgium as +500 favorites to reach the final. The best comeback of the knockout stage is undoubtedly their run against Japan. After an underwhelming first half when the European powerhouse failed to make connecting plays, Roberton Martinez’s men found themselves two goals behind after a barrage of attacks by the Japanese. It looked like another shot at the World Cup title fell out of their hands.

However, The Red Devils’ Marouane Fellaini sparked some life off the bench. As players from The Land of the Rising Sun started to tire, Belgium went full throttle and drew the game level. Despite aggressive defensive efforts from the Japanese, Belgium forced another goal and closed the game three goals to two in their favor.

An unlikely run for the hosts

Every World Cup host nation holds high expectations on and off the field. Russia made sure that it stayed competitive throughout the tournament. After winning two of their group stage matches, a clash with Spain awaited them in Moscow. Many thought the Spaniards would make light work of The Team, but it was a different story through and through.

A defense-oriented Russian squad significantly slowed down the attack-heavy Spanish side, whose prolonged possession was shaky and vulnerable. Fernando Hierro’s men eventually suffered the consequences. The game went on to penalties, and goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev saved two kicks from Koke and Iago, booking Russia s spot in the final eight against Croatia.

A Final to remember

France and Italy powered their way through the final, which offered edge-of-your-seat action. Brilliant and controversial moments happened one after the other. Croatia will have complaints about the penalty against Ivan Perisic, with raging arguments about whether referee Néstor Pitana made the right call.

Nevertheless, Kylian Mbappe displayed moments of brilliance. He penned himself as the most exciting young player in the tournament and a prominent striker in today’s game–helping France rank up as +275 favorites to reach the final. Luka Modric showed class, consistency, and experience on the field. Despite losing the game, four goals to one, the Croatians kept the underdog dreams alive up to the final minutes of the event, which is well worthy of one of the most memorable moments of the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

Where to Bet on the 2022 FIFA World Cup with Bitcoin

Adding to the thrill of league soccer, Nitrobetting keeps the action going with the latest 2022 FIFA World Cup odds. We house early futures odds for the winner, with more game odds as the tournament draws closer.

This is just one of the many sports betting guides that you can read here at Nitrobetting news. Stay tuned for more 2022 FIFA World Cup previews and articles, and don’t forget to check out the latest soccer betting odds on the sportsbook.

*All odds stated are subject to change without prior notice.