Here is the latest update from the 2026 FIFA World Cup as of 2026-07-08 02:59:00.
The United States’ performance in the FIFA World Cup 2026 has resulted in unprecedented soccer betting activity, leading to significant profits for American sportsbooks following their elimination.
Record-Breaking Bets
On Monday evening, the USMNT faced Belgium in the round of 16, marking the most-wagered soccer match ever recorded by major U.S. sportsbooks. BetMGM indicated that this match attracted more bets than any game in the upcoming College Football Playoff or significant championship games across the NBA, NHL, and MLB.
Throughout the tournament, sportsbooks reported a series of broken betting records, especially during the opening stages. FanDuel noted that the first two U.S. matches set new benchmarks, while the U.S. victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina briefly held the record at Caesars Sportsbook, which was quickly overtaken by other matches like Argentina-Cape Verde and Mexico’s defeat against England.
Impact of Timing and Popularity
BetMGM senior trading manager Christian Cipollini commented on the excitement surrounding the World Cup. He mentioned that the timing of the games, particularly the primetime scheduling of the U.S. match, significantly contributed to the betting surge. This thrill is palpable across the nation, fueling interest among bettors.
American bettors heavily favored the home team throughout the tournament, leading to substantial earnings for sportsbooks at the expense of the U.S. team’s elimination. Caesars Sportsbook’s Mark Bickerdike reported that 81% of the betting handle supported the U.S. qualifying for the next round. The tight betting line for the Belgium match, with the U.S. as a -130 favorite, played a major role in the profitability for sportsbooks.
At Circa Sportsbook in Las Vegas, a single bettor made waves by placing a $750,000 bet on the U.S. advancing at those odds. With the U.S. out of the tournament, many sportsbooks can now breathe easier, after having identified them as significant liabilities.
As attention shifts to teams like France, the betting dynamic may change. Cipollini anticipates a reduction in betting activity but remains optimistic, noting that superstars such as Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé continue to engage fans and bettors alike.
While fans may be disheartened by the U.S. exit, DraftKings Sportsbook director Johnny Avello believes the excitement for the World Cup will continue, underlining that numerous high-stakes matches are still on the horizon.
FAQs
What was the significance of the USMNT’s match against Belgium?
This match set the record for the most bets placed on a soccer game in U.S. sportsbook history.
Which teams are favored to win the World Cup now?
Currently, France leads at +180, followed by Spain (+370), Argentina (+420), and England (+470), according to DraftKings odds.
Key Facts
- Category:
- Source: www.espn.com – SOCCER
- Published: 2026-07-08 02:59:00
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Tags: #U.S #World #Cup #loss #sets #betting #records #big #profits #house
Tags: #U.S #World #Cup #loss #sets #betting #records #big #profits #house
