The Best Bet: Stalemate anticipated in Group A shootout between Russia and Uruguay

Uruguay were expected to top Group A with ease after being drawn alongside hosts Russia, Egypt and Saudi Arabia but the South Americans have laboured to two successive 1-0 wins.

Oscar Tabarez’s side have already qualified for the knockout phase of the competition but must beat Russia in Monday’s clash to finish the group stage as winners.

Finishing first may prove meaningless in the grand scheme of things as that will more than likely set up a round of 16 clash against Spain or Euro 2016 winners Portugal.

Uruguay have flattered the deceive going forward but have unsurprisingly been formidable at the back, boasting arguably the best centre-back pairing in the competition in Diego Godin and Jose Gimenez.

Team news and odds in our match preview

The Atletico Madrid duo have been far and away Uruguay’s best performers and they will need to excel against on Monday when they face a free-flowing Russia outfit.

The hosts have performed above expectations this summer and only need a draw to secure top spot. Only Belgium and England have scored as many goals as Stanislav Cherchesov’s side this summer (8), but Uruguay will prove their toughest test thus far.

While they have blown Saudi Arabia and Egypt away with ease, they are unlikely to enjoy similar fortunes up against the likes of Gimenez and Godin. In fact, Uruguay are one of only two teams yet to concede at the 2018 World Cup.

With that in mind, the best bet in Monday’s encounter at the Samara Arena is for the game to be a draw at half-time and full-time. Marathon Bet are offering odds of 3.7 for this to play out.