How FIFA 18’s Team Ratings Compare to the Real World Cup
Gamers will arguably be looking forward to the release of FIFA 18’s World Cup update (29th May) with as much enthusiasm, maybe more, than the real thing in Russia (14th June). FIFA 18 was roundly praised on its release, with many critics citing the fact that the realistic gameplay had hit new levels.
But to what extent has EA got its sums right when dealing with the national sides on the way to the World Cup in Russia? Are the best-rated teams in FIFA 18 likely to win the World Cup? Have they overlooked anyone? Below is a look at the top-rated teams in the stats database of Fifaindex.com and a comparison with their odds for next month’s tournament.
Spain
FIFA 18 Ranking: 1st
Overall Score: 86
Despite being top ranked by FIFA 18’s statisticians, Spain are only fourth-favourites at 6/1 with bookmakers with bookmakers like William Hill to win the World Cup. However, many pundits might disagree with the bookmakers and agree with EA in this case: Spain look a side reborn in recent months, putting efficient tactics and uncompromising defence at the heart of their play. Indeed, they feature heavily in World Cup tips by experts.
Belgium
FIFA 18 Ranking: 2nd
Overall Score: 85
Again, the bookmakers disagree with EA here. Belgium are sixth-favourites for the World Cup, available at a price of around 11/1 with most betting companies. However, as with Spain, many analysts feel it is Belgium’s time to shine in Russia. The golden generation of De Bruyne, Hazard, Lukaku and the rest have all reached their peak – time to make it count.
Brazil
FIFA 18 Ranking: 3rd
Overall Score: 85
Just a thin margin behind Belgium in the rankings, Brazil are miles ahead in the World Cup odds. In fact, the majority of bookmakers have installed Brazil as favourites for the World Cup, with a best-price of 5/1 available from BlackType. Do Brazil merit being favourites? Have they transformed enough from the side that got mauled 7-1 by Germany at the last World Cup? The jury’s still out.
FIFA 18 Kick Off (In Menus)
Germany
FIFA 18 Ranking: 4th
Overall Score: 85
Very close to Brazil in FIFA 18’s rankings and close to them in the bookie’s odds (BlackType also go 5/1 on Germany). However, there is a point here where EA may have erred – Germany’s attack rating of 81. That’s comfortably the lowest in the top ten ranked teams in FIFA 18, yet Germany scored a record 43 goals in qualifying. FIFA 18 have it wrong and the bookmakers are right – Germany should be higher.
France
FIFA 18 Ranking: 5th
Overall Score: 84
France may be an example of how a gamer can foster a little more cohesion and tactical awareness than Didier Deschamps. While that may seem harsh on the France coach, he has largely failed to make a team out of arguably France’s most talented squad since 1998-2000. France are 11/2 with William Hill to win the World Cup. That price seems a little too low for a team that often flatters to deceive.
Portugal
FIFA Ranking: 6th
Overall Score: 83
This may be a case of Cristiano Ronaldo skewing the overall score for Portugal. Certainly, in attack (85) Portugal should not be four points higher than Germany. Yes, they are the current European Champions, but it would be a massive surprise if Portugal lifted the trophy in Russia. In fact, the majority of bookmakers have put them in at 25/1, eighth-favourites. That looks about right.