Senegal v Colombia

Group H has produced some of the most entertaining games in the first two weeks of the World Cup, with Senegal and Colombia combining attacking verve with naive defending.

Colombia were a little unlucky to lose to Japan, despite having 10 men for virtually the entire game following Carlos Sanchez’s early red card, before thrashing a Poland team that has been one of the most disappointing sides at this tournament.

Jose Pekerman has an abundance of attacking talent at his disposal with Radamel Falcao, Juan Cuadrado and James Rodriguez all superb against the dismal Poles.

Colombia 3.60 to win and both teams to score

However, their attack often lacks a focal point and they struggle to get many players into the opposition’s penalty area at crucial times.

Colombia should be too strong for Senegal, but they could come unstuck as soon as they meet a top-quality outfit in the knockout stages. Their defence has looked shaky at times with Davinson Sanchez particularly vulnerable against Japan.

Over 3.5 goals to be scored at 3.65

Senegal have been possibly the most unpredictable team in Russia, as they veer from attacking prowess to defensive vulnerability in the blink of an eye.

They twice led against Japan only to let their advantage slip on both occasions and defeat to the vibrant Colombians could see them heading home.

Aliou Cisse’s side can rely on Sadio Mane to cause the Colombian defence problems, but it may be better to look at Ismaila Sarr, at 11.00, to score the first goal.

Colombia 7.00 to win from behind

These sides have only met once before, in a friendly in 2014, and it proved to be a tasty affair with Senegal hitting back from two goals down to draw 2-2, despite having Ibrahima Seck sent off.

It seems certain to be another vibrant affair on Thursday when so much is at stake. Colombia look suspect defensively and could fall behind in this game but have the desire and fluency to hit back and claim the three points, which will be enough to confirm their place in the round of 16.

It promises to a spectacular game in a hot and sticky Samara.