Former Premier League manager Harry Redknapp has changed his World Cup prediction after initially backing Portugal as his pre-tournament favourites. Draws against DR Congo and Colombia saw Portugal struggle early, finishing second in their group. In the last 32, Portugal narrowly beat Croatia 2-1, with Goncalo Ramos scoring late off the bench, while Croatia had a last-minute equalizer by Josko Gvardiol ruled out for offside.
Redknapp's revised view on Portugal
Redknapp told Metro: 'I thought Portugal would have a good go at it, but I watched them the other night, and they got away against Croatia in the end. Martinez ended up taking off his key players, Fernandes and Ronaldo and then they nicked a goal and got away with it. So I’ve not been over-impressed with Portugal.'
France now the favourites
Instead, Redknapp now believes France are the most likely winners after their 3-0 win over Sweden. Didier Deschamps' side face Paraguay in the last 16. Redknapp added: 'France have been the best team I’ve seen for sure. I think France are the team to beat. They’ve got so many good players, so many great attacking options with flair who can do things.'
England's challenge against Mexico
England face Mexico in the last 16, with the co-hosts yet to concede and playing at altitude in Mexico City. Redknapp urged England to be more aggressive: 'We haven’t had a go. I feel we’ve been really sort of on the back foot almost waiting for something to happen. We’ve played really poor teams that we should be beating quite easily. So, I’m all for having a bit more of a go.'
He added that England have better players than Mexico, noting Mexico's star striker was released by Fulham and is joining Wolves in the Championship.
Redknapp spoke to Metro after watching England's win over DR Congo on LG's Red Route bus experience, which featured OLED TVs and immersive audio.
