Betfair Official Blog

World Cup semi-finals betting and odds

The odds on England, Argentina and France making the World Cup semi-finals would have been huge but the weekend's extraordinary results means betting is available on the trio, who join South Africa in the last four.

A bet on New Zealand and Australia looked to be a safe investment but they were beaten by France and England respectively at decent odds in two of the biggest betting upsets in World Cup history.

England now face France and are the outside bet in the match with betting on France popular at present, after Les Blues two warm-up victories over Phil Vickery's men during the summer.

But punters should note that the hosts were beaten by Argentina in the opening match of the tournament and looked woeful, while England's dismal showing against the Springboks was their worst outing in France.

France are favourites in the betting but a bet on England may be a smart move at decent odds as they appear to be gaining momentum and confidence, but must guard against the Australian victory being their 'cup final'.

The Pumas deserve to be in the last four but they face the stiffest task against South Africa, who are favourites in the betting to take the title.

Argentina have been a revelation and are mixing it with the best in the world despite having no regular opponents to play against.

The Springboks will be a good bet but they looked out on their feet against Fiji at times and the match will be a close-fought affair with betting sure to be close throughout.

Percy Montgomery's kicking and the all-round play of scrum-half Fourie du Preez will be crucial to the Springboks' cause, while Argentine captain Agustin Pichot will have to be at the top of his game and lead from the front if the Pumas are to defy the odds and make the final of the prestigious event.

After a tournament of shocks, who would bet against an England - Argentina final?