World Cup Betting Has Surged Past Expectations

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Sportsbook operators are seeing record betting on this year’s World Cup. The event is in North America, allowing U.S. audiences to watch live. And the U.S. team has high expectations after winning its first two matches. Caesars Sportsbook’s Mark Bickerdike says the betting has exceeded expectations. DraftKings’ Johnny Avello compares the wagering to the NCAA Tournament, saying it could be the biggest event of the year. BetMGM’s Christian Cipollini expects the U.S. game against Bosnia-Herzegovina to be the sportsbook’s most bet-on soccer game ever. France and Argentina are favorites, but long-shot bets are also popular.