The final round of the 2026 World Cup group stage is here, featuring six high-stakes matches played simultaneously to determine who moves on to the knockout rounds. For bettors, these concurrent fixtures offer a prime opportunity to target the “anytime goalscorer” market. While the USMNT has already secured its spot at the top of Group D ahead of their 10 p.m. ET clash with Turkiye, other nations are fighting for survival. In the same group, Paraguay and Australia face off in a winner-takes-all scenario, as both teams currently sit on three points.
Earlier in the day, Group E kicks off at 4 p.m. ET with Ivory Coast facing Curacao and Germany taking on Ecuador. At 7 p.m. ET, Group F concludes with Japan meeting Sweden and the Netherlands playing Tunisia. With 12 teams taking the pitch, the player prop market is flooded with options. However, bettors must be cautious; teams that have already qualified may rotate their squads to rest star players. Success on Thursday will require a close eye on starting lineups and tactical motivations.
Top Anytime Goalscorer Predictions for Thursday’s World Cup Action
- Donyell Malen, Netherlands (-120)
- Junya Ito, Japan (+270)
- Ricardo Pepi, USA (+165)
- Julio Enciso, Paraguay (+450)
Donyell Malen: Netherlands vs. Tunisia Prediction
The Netherlands enters their Group F finale in a position of strength, and they are heavy favorites against a struggling Tunisia side. The Dutch offense has been firing on all cylinders, netting seven goals in their first two outings. Conversely, Tunisia’s backline has been porous, conceding nine goals so far. This defensive instability should provide Donyell Malen with plenty of looks at the net.
The 27-year-old forward has found his rhythm since moving to Roma in Serie A, where he recorded an impressive 14 goals in just 18 appearances last season. While he was relatively quiet in the 5-1 thrashing of Sweden, his international track record of 13 goals in 55 caps suggests he is due for a breakthrough. Against a Tunisian defense that has struggled to track runners in the box, Malen is a strong candidate to find the scoresheet.
Junya Ito: Japan vs. Sweden Prediction
Japan’s tactical discipline is well-known, but their offensive variety is what makes them dangerous. While Ayase Ueda often commands the most attention from oddsmakers due to his recent brace against Tunisia, veteran Junya Ito offers significant betting value. With 16 international goals to his name, the 33-year-old is one of the most experienced finishers on the roster.
Ito proved he still has the clinical touch by scoring in last week’s 4-0 victory. His experience playing for Genk in the Belgian Pro League, where he tallied six goals last season, has refined his ability to exploit space against European defenses. In a high-pressure match against Sweden, Japan will likely rely on Ito’s craftiness and veteran positioning to break the deadlock.
Ricardo Pepi: USA vs. Turkiye Prediction
With the USMNT having already clinched Group D, this match serves as a vital audition for the squad’s younger talents. It is highly probable that regular starters like Christian Pulisic and Folarin Balogun will see limited minutes, opening the door for 23-year-old Ricardo Pepi to lead the line. Pepi has already proven to be a reliable international asset, scoring 13 goals in 39 appearances for the national team.
Pepi arrives at this World Cup following a stellar run with PSV Eindhoven, where he notched 27 goals over two seasons and helped them secure the Eredivisie title. Known for his predatory instincts in the penalty area, Pepi will be highly motivated to prove he belongs in the starting XI for the knockout stages. Facing a Turkiye side in a game with low stakes for the Americans, Pepi should see the service necessary to add to his international tally.
Julio Enciso: Paraguay vs. Australia Prediction
Paraguay’s World Cup hopes rest on this final group match. Because Australia holds a superior goal differential, the South American side must prioritize offense. This creates a perfect scenario for 22-year-old Julio Enciso to take center stage. Despite concerns over a late injury in the pre-tournament friendlies, Enciso looked sharp in last week’s 1-0 win over Turkiye, proving he is fully fit.
Enciso’s dynamic style was on display in Ligue 1 last season, where he contributed three goals and six assists for Strasbourg. While he only has four goals for Paraguay so far in his young career, he is the creative engine of their attack. With Australia likely to defend deep, Enciso’s ability to strike from distance or weave through traffic makes him a high-value longshot at +450 to score on Thursday.
Final Betting Summary for the Group Stage Finale
Thursday’s World Cup slate offers a mix of established veterans and rising stars looking to make their mark. Donyell Malen and Ricardo Pepi represent the safest bets due to favorable matchups and squad rotations, while Junya Ito and Julio Enciso provide excellent value based on their clinical finishing and the tactical needs of their respective teams. As the group stage concludes, focusing on players with high motivation and recent club form remains the most effective strategy for anytime goalscorer props.
