England lose, but odds improve! Three Lions loss boosts winning chances

England’s defeat against Belgium tonight has actually increased their chances of winning the World Cup.

Pre-match, the Three Lions were considered 15/2 fourth-favourites to lift the famous trophy, but defeat has boosted them to 7/1.

That’s because finishing second offers arguably an easier draw, though they will first have to overcome Group H winners Colombia.

Winning the group, meanwhile, would’ve given England an easier initial challenge in Japan – who are rank outsiders at 175/1 to win the World Cup.

Gareth Southgate’s men would’ve been odds-on (8/13) to beat Japan, but are instead 11/10 to progress against Colombia on Tuesday night.

But, they’d then face either Sweden or Switzerland in the quarters and joint-favourites Spain in the semi-finals should they make it that far.

Asked his thoughts on the Three Lions spokesman Paddy Power said: “England are very unEngland this tournament – even when they’re losing they’re winning under Gareth Southgate.

“So, yes, the odds have actually improved after that loss, thanks to swerving Brazil, and maybe France in the draw until the final – but beating Colombia is hardly a foregone conclusion.”

England – 11/10
Draw – 11/5
Colombia – 3/1

To see a full list of World Cup match odds, head here.