Two World Cup group stage openers that demand attention as the tournament kicks off in the Bay Area. First, Norway travels to Brazil to face the hosts in what's essentially a must-win for the Europeans if they want any shot at advancing. Then England heads to Mexico City for a date with El Tri at altitude—always a tricky proposition for the Three Lions.

Norway at Brazil (-280, 8:00 PM PT) The hosts are heavy favorites for a reason. Brazil's attacking talent—Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, and an emerging generation of attackers—should feast on a Norwegian defense that's been shaky in qualifying. Norway's path to the knockout stage likely runs through their other group matches; facing Brazil in the opener is brutal scheduling. The home crowd at Estádio Mineirão will be electric, and Brazil typically doesn't mess around in tournament openers. This is about as close to a lock as you'll get in international football.

England at Mexico (+120, 11:00 PM PT) This one's more interesting. England comes in as slight favorites, but Mexico at Estadio Azteca is a different animal. The altitude, the crowd, the historical weight—Mexico doesn't lose many games at home, especially in World Cups. England's tournament form has been inconsistent under Gareth Southgate, and while they have more individual talent across the board, Mexico's collective organization and home-field advantage could be enough to steal a point or three. The value here is on Mexico not losing this opener.

The parlay pays +135—a solid return on two outcomes that feel increasingly likely as we get closer to kickoff. Brazil's home opener should be straightforward, and Mexico's ability to grind out results at home makes them worth backing against an England side that often starts tournaments slowly.

Sal is 15-12 (+2.9u YTD).

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