Paul Chapman

Paul Chapman

LATEST STORIES BY PAUL CHAPMAN

 

WORLD CUP: Bilicki and Chapman’s final picks

Dan Bilicki’s pick Argentina 3, France 2 At the beginning of the tournament, this was likely one of the dream finals that many people picked. You have defending champions France, led by superstar Kylian Mbappe, going up against Argentina, with Lionel Messi looking to solidify his claim to the title of GOAT. It is not going to be easy for either side. Both teams are capable of turning it on in big moments and the two PSG stars have been incredible at creating offence, both for themselves and their teammates. We should see a few goals scored in this one, but wouldn’t be surprised if it ultimately comes down to penalties. Eiher way, Messi will get the last laugh and lift the trophy.

December 18, 2022 Soccer
France's Kylian Mbappe (right) celebrates with midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni.

FIFA WORLD CUP: Bilicki and Chapman's picks for Dec. 14

Dan Bilicki’s pick France 1, Morocco 0 Will it be the team of destiny or the defending champions? Morocco has won over millions of soccer fans and essentially became the home team in Qatar with most Arabic fans falling for the Atlas Lions. France’s star-studded lineup has its supporters as well, but likely will have the crowd against it in this semifinal. Kylian Mbappe was handled well by England, but it was the rest of the team that got its chances in the win. As much as we’d love to see an African side make its first World Cup final, this French team is just too talented.

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December 13, 2022 Soccer
France forward Kylian Mbappe reacts during a training session.

FIFA WORLD CUP: Bilicki and Chapman's picks for Dec. 13

Dan Bilicki’s pick Croatia 1, Argentina 1 Tiny Croatia is really throwing it into the face of any critics that thought it wouldn’t be able to repeat its heroics from 2018. But with Luka Modric leading the way the Balkan country is just a win away from making it back to the final. Lionel Messi stands in its way, though, and that’s a massive obstacle to overcome. Both sides have proven themselves in penalties, but Croatia feels more battle-hardened and less likely to make a mistake. If this one comes down to penalties, it will be an awesome matchup between keepers Dominik Livakovic and Emiliano Martinez, but we’re giving Croatia the edge.

December 12, 2022 Soccer
Croatia midfielder Luka Modric takes part in a training session in Doha.

FIFA WORLD CUP: Bilicki and Chapman's picks for Dec. 10 

Dan Bilicki’s picks France 2, England 1 Now, here’s a classic rivalry if we’ve ever seen one. The big question in this one isn’t which wingers Gareth Southgate will start, but how in the world will he try to stop Kylian Mbappe? The Frenchman is having another outstanding tournament, leading the Golden Boot race with five goals and always looking likely to add more. We bet that he does and will be the difference between these two talented teams.

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December 9, 2022 Soccer
Portugal's forward #07 Cristiano Ronaldo (L) kicks the ball next to Portugal's midfielder #08 Bruno Fernandes during the Qatar 2022 World Cup round of 16 football match between Portugal and Switzerland at Lusail Stadium in Lusail, north of Doha on December 6, 2022.
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