Got off to a great start on the World Cup with my opening picks today. Called the South Africa-Mexico game precisely and correctly took the under on France-Uruguay.
'10 WC: ATS 1-0-1 (75%), O/U 2-0 (100%)
South Korea(PICK) vs Greece, 2.5 - Yet another pick’em match-up. I expect a pretty dull game here. Greece is known for their tough defense, but the faster South Koreans should be able to slip a goal past them. The Pick: South Korea 1-0
Argentina(-1.5) vs. Nigeria, 2.5 - Argentina, with the combination of Messi and Tevez, should certainly be able to put in a couple goals here. Nigeria is one of the better African teams but I see them struggling to find the back of the net in this game. The Pick: Argentina 2-0
England(-1) vs. USA, 2.5 - This is the most hyped game coming into the tournament and it should be fun to watch. England is definitely the better team, both on paper and on the field. I’ll be pretty surprised if they don’t win. It won’t be one-sided though, USA will be tough and probably manage to score one goal. The Pick: England 2-1
'10 WC: ATS 1-0-1 (75%), O/U 2-0 (100%)
South Korea(PICK) vs Greece, 2.5 - Yet another pick’em match-up. I expect a pretty dull game here. Greece is known for their tough defense, but the faster South Koreans should be able to slip a goal past them. The Pick: South Korea 1-0
Argentina(-1.5) vs. Nigeria, 2.5 - Argentina, with the combination of Messi and Tevez, should certainly be able to put in a couple goals here. Nigeria is one of the better African teams but I see them struggling to find the back of the net in this game. The Pick: Argentina 2-0
England(-1) vs. USA, 2.5 - This is the most hyped game coming into the tournament and it should be fun to watch. England is definitely the better team, both on paper and on the field. I’ll be pretty surprised if they don’t win. It won’t be one-sided though, USA will be tough and probably manage to score one goal. The Pick: England 2-1
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Soccer YTD: ATS 2-2-1 (50%), O/U 4-1 (80%)
Algeria(PICK) vs. Slovenia, 2.5 - With England and the U.S. playing to a draw today, expect both these teams to come out aggressive. This is their best opportunity to get a win within their group and each side knows that. If you look at their recent performances, Slovenia is playing far better than Algeria lately. They have the better offensive threats and that will be the difference maker in this game. The Pick: Slovenia 1-0
Serbia(PICK) vs. Ghana, 2.5 - Ghana had a strong showing in the last World Cup, but they’re without star player Essien for this tourney. That is going to hurt their ability to break through the defense of Serbia. On top of that, Serbia will also have a significant size advantage here. And sooner or later one of their tall strikers should be able to head the ball into Ghana’s net.
The Pick: Serbia 1-0
Germany(-1) vs. Australia, 2.5 - Both of these teams did very well in their qualifying for this cup. Especially Germany, who outscored opponents 26-5. Australia got here not because of offense, but because of a solid defense. I don’t think that defense is going to hold up against the Germans though. The Pick: Germany 2-0
Algeria(PICK) vs. Slovenia, 2.5 - With England and the U.S. playing to a draw today, expect both these teams to come out aggressive. This is their best opportunity to get a win within their group and each side knows that. If you look at their recent performances, Slovenia is playing far better than Algeria lately. They have the better offensive threats and that will be the difference maker in this game. The Pick: Slovenia 1-0
Serbia(PICK) vs. Ghana, 2.5 - Ghana had a strong showing in the last World Cup, but they’re without star player Essien for this tourney. That is going to hurt their ability to break through the defense of Serbia. On top of that, Serbia will also have a significant size advantage here. And sooner or later one of their tall strikers should be able to head the ball into Ghana’s net.
The Pick: Serbia 1-0
Germany(-1) vs. Australia, 2.5 - Both of these teams did very well in their qualifying for this cup. Especially Germany, who outscored opponents 26-5. Australia got here not because of offense, but because of a solid defense. I don’t think that defense is going to hold up against the Germans though. The Pick: Germany 2-0
Another solid day of picks for me as the World Cup rolls on.
Soccer YTD: ATS 4-3-1 (56.3%), O/U 6-2 (75%)
Holland(-1) vs. Denmark, 2.5 - Holland is right up there with the best in this tournament. They’ve got a well rounded team and performed very well in qualifying. While Denmark isn’t a team that should be overlooked, I just see the Dutch being too much for them to handle. The Pick: Holland 3-1
Japan(PICK) vs. Cameroon, 2.5 - Japan is going to have a hard time keeping up with the attack of Cameroon in this match. Led by one of the best strikers in the world, Eto’o, expect them to be constantly threatening Japan’s net. The Pick: Cameroon 3-0
Italy(PICK) vs. Paraguay, 2.5 - Paraguay has struggled since their leading scorer, Salvador Cabanas, was killed earlier this year. I have a hunch that the defending World Cup Champions are going to underwhelm in this tourney, but they’re experience alone should get them the win here. The Pick: Italy 1-0
Soccer YTD: ATS 4-3-1 (56.3%), O/U 6-2 (75%)
Holland(-1) vs. Denmark, 2.5 - Holland is right up there with the best in this tournament. They’ve got a well rounded team and performed very well in qualifying. While Denmark isn’t a team that should be overlooked, I just see the Dutch being too much for them to handle. The Pick: Holland 3-1
Japan(PICK) vs. Cameroon, 2.5 - Japan is going to have a hard time keeping up with the attack of Cameroon in this match. Led by one of the best strikers in the world, Eto’o, expect them to be constantly threatening Japan’s net. The Pick: Cameroon 3-0
Italy(PICK) vs. Paraguay, 2.5 - Paraguay has struggled since their leading scorer, Salvador Cabanas, was killed earlier this year. I have a hunch that the defending World Cup Champions are going to underwhelm in this tourney, but they’re experience alone should get them the win here. The Pick: Italy 1-0
I was way off on my prediction for the Cameroon-Japan match-up, but aside from that it was a pretty solid day of picks.
Soccer YTD: ATS 5-4-2 (54.5%) O/U 7-4 (63.6%)
New Zealand(+1) vs. Slovakia, 2.5 - This is going to be a one-sided game in Slovakia’s favor. And it’s not because of them being very good, because they’re not, it’s because of New Zealand being one of the weakest teams in the tourney. They give up a lot of goals and they’ll give up a couple in this match. The Pick: Slovakia 2-0
Portugal(PICK) vs. Ivory Coast, 2.5 - Ivory Coast took a big hit when they lost star player Drogba for the entire Cup. Without him, Ivory Coast’s chances of advancing drop dramatically. Led by stars like Ronaldo and Deco, Portugal is one of the better teams in the Cup. IC still has plenty of talent, but I think they’ll fall short here. The Pick: Portugal 2-1
Brazil(-2.5) vs. North Korea, 3 - Brazil is one of the favorites as always. North Korea is a candidate to lose all 3 of it’s group matches. Expect a one-sided match with the Brazilians putting on a show much like the Germans did against Australia. The Pick: Brazil 5-0
Soccer YTD: ATS 5-4-2 (54.5%) O/U 7-4 (63.6%)
New Zealand(+1) vs. Slovakia, 2.5 - This is going to be a one-sided game in Slovakia’s favor. And it’s not because of them being very good, because they’re not, it’s because of New Zealand being one of the weakest teams in the tourney. They give up a lot of goals and they’ll give up a couple in this match. The Pick: Slovakia 2-0
Portugal(PICK) vs. Ivory Coast, 2.5 - Ivory Coast took a big hit when they lost star player Drogba for the entire Cup. Without him, Ivory Coast’s chances of advancing drop dramatically. Led by stars like Ronaldo and Deco, Portugal is one of the better teams in the Cup. IC still has plenty of talent, but I think they’ll fall short here. The Pick: Portugal 2-1
Brazil(-2.5) vs. North Korea, 3 - Brazil is one of the favorites as always. North Korea is a candidate to lose all 3 of it’s group matches. Expect a one-sided match with the Brazilians putting on a show much like the Germans did against Australia. The Pick: Brazil 5-0
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Not one of my better days of picks as the Group of Death games turned out to be pretty evenly matched.
Soccer YTD: ATS 5-6-3 (46.4%) O/U 9-5 (64.2%)
Switzerland(+1.5) vs. Spain, 2.5 - Spain is the favorite to win the tournament and my pick to win it all. Look for them to make a statement in their opening game, much like the Germans did. I know I said that about Brazil yesterday too, but this time I guarantee it. The Pick: Spain 3-0
South Africa(PICK) vs. Uruguay, 2.5 - Both of these teams came away with draws after their opening match-ups, so this is a vital opportunity to move ahead in the standings. South Africa showed that they won’t be an easy match-up. But thanks to superior striking, you can expect Uruguay to come out with a win here. The Pick: Uruguay 1-0
Honduras(+1) vs. Chile, 2.5 - Honduras is another longshot in the tournament. Chile, while not a great team, is expected to reach the next round. We’ll see what both sides are made of here, but all signs point toward a Chile victory. The Pick: Chile 1-0
Soccer YTD: ATS 5-6-3 (46.4%) O/U 9-5 (64.2%)
Switzerland(+1.5) vs. Spain, 2.5 - Spain is the favorite to win the tournament and my pick to win it all. Look for them to make a statement in their opening game, much like the Germans did. I know I said that about Brazil yesterday too, but this time I guarantee it. The Pick: Spain 3-0
South Africa(PICK) vs. Uruguay, 2.5 - Both of these teams came away with draws after their opening match-ups, so this is a vital opportunity to move ahead in the standings. South Africa showed that they won’t be an easy match-up. But thanks to superior striking, you can expect Uruguay to come out with a win here. The Pick: Uruguay 1-0
Honduras(+1) vs. Chile, 2.5 - Honduras is another longshot in the tournament. Chile, while not a great team, is expected to reach the next round. We’ll see what both sides are made of here, but all signs point toward a Chile victory. The Pick: Chile 1-0
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Soccer YTD: ATS 7-7-3 (50%) O/U: 10-7 (58.8%)
South Korea(+1) vs. Argentina, 2.5 - Both teams won their opening match-ups, so the winner of this game would be in a very good position to advance. I think South Korea looked better than they actually are due to a weak opponent in Greece. Messi and Tevez will expose that fact to any doubters in this match. The Pick: Argentina 2-0
Greece(PICK) vs. Nigeria, 2.5 - Both these teams lost their openers, so they desperately need to come away with some points here. Nigeria doesn’t have a great striking attack, but they do have a good midfield and defense and they showed that by holding Argentina to just 1 goal. Greece looked terrible against South Korea and I expect them to look terrible here. The Pick: Nigeria 1-0
Mexico(PICK) vs. France, 2.5 - Both these teams settled for draws in their openers, and both looked mediocre. A lot of people are down on France, and I was as well, but I see tomorrow’s match-up like this. if France was able to hold a draw against the Uruguay team that crushed South Africa, then they should be able to defeat the Mexico team that nearly lost to that same South Africa. The Pick: France 2-1
South Korea(+1) vs. Argentina, 2.5 - Both teams won their opening match-ups, so the winner of this game would be in a very good position to advance. I think South Korea looked better than they actually are due to a weak opponent in Greece. Messi and Tevez will expose that fact to any doubters in this match. The Pick: Argentina 2-0
Greece(PICK) vs. Nigeria, 2.5 - Both these teams lost their openers, so they desperately need to come away with some points here. Nigeria doesn’t have a great striking attack, but they do have a good midfield and defense and they showed that by holding Argentina to just 1 goal. Greece looked terrible against South Korea and I expect them to look terrible here. The Pick: Nigeria 1-0
Mexico(PICK) vs. France, 2.5 - Both these teams settled for draws in their openers, and both looked mediocre. A lot of people are down on France, and I was as well, but I see tomorrow’s match-up like this. if France was able to hold a draw against the Uruguay team that crushed South Africa, then they should be able to defeat the Mexico team that nearly lost to that same South Africa. The Pick: France 2-1
Easily my poorest day of picks in the tournament today, look for me to rebound with my best day of picks here.
Soccer YTD: ATS 8-9-3 (47.5%), O/U 10-10 (50%)
Serbia(+1) vs. Germany - Germany had the most impressive debut of any team in the tournament. I don’t think we’ll see quite the blowout here, but still a solid victory for the Germans. The Pick: Germany 2-0
Slovenia(PICK) vs. United States - The U.S. would be putting themselves in a difficult spot to advance if they don’t win here and they know that. Slovenia has big players who focus more on defense, so the U.S. will have to work hard. But sooner or later I see them finding the back of the net and coming out of this match with 3 points. The Pick: USA 1-0
Algeria(+1.5) vs. England - England looked a little flat in their opener against the U.S. But they should shine here against an awful Algerian team. The only way they give up a goal here is if their goalie screws up again. The Pick: England 2-0
Soccer YTD: ATS 8-9-3 (47.5%), O/U 10-10 (50%)
Serbia(+1) vs. Germany - Germany had the most impressive debut of any team in the tournament. I don’t think we’ll see quite the blowout here, but still a solid victory for the Germans. The Pick: Germany 2-0
Slovenia(PICK) vs. United States - The U.S. would be putting themselves in a difficult spot to advance if they don’t win here and they know that. Slovenia has big players who focus more on defense, so the U.S. will have to work hard. But sooner or later I see them finding the back of the net and coming out of this match with 3 points. The Pick: USA 1-0
Algeria(+1.5) vs. England - England looked a little flat in their opener against the U.S. But they should shine here against an awful Algerian team. The only way they give up a goal here is if their goalie screws up again. The Pick: England 2-0
A few surprising finishes hurt my picks once again today.
Soccer YTD: ATS 8-11-4 (43.5%), O/U 12-11 (52.2%)
Japan(+1.5) vs. Holland - Japan pulled out a minor upset over Cameroon in their opener. But I still have to stick with the favorite here in Holland. We’ve
seen Germany and Spain fall to teams they shouldn’t have, but I believe Holland will avoid that. The Pick: Holland 3-1
Cameroon(PICK) vs. Denmark - A win is vital for both these teams as they each lost their opening games. Cameroon didn’t really get many scoring chances against a tight Japanese defense. Denmark was able to hold a strong Dutch team to just two goals. I think these teams will end up in a stalemate. The Pick: Draw 1-1
Australia(PICK) vs. Ghana - How can anyone go with Australia after they got humiliated by Germany? Ghana can put themselves at the top of the group with a win here. While I don’t expect Australia to get squashed again, I do expect them to fall to a hungrier team. The Pick: Ghana 1-0
Soccer YTD: ATS 8-11-4 (43.5%), O/U 12-11 (52.2%)
Japan(+1.5) vs. Holland - Japan pulled out a minor upset over Cameroon in their opener. But I still have to stick with the favorite here in Holland. We’ve
seen Germany and Spain fall to teams they shouldn’t have, but I believe Holland will avoid that. The Pick: Holland 3-1
Cameroon(PICK) vs. Denmark - A win is vital for both these teams as they each lost their opening games. Cameroon didn’t really get many scoring chances against a tight Japanese defense. Denmark was able to hold a strong Dutch team to just two goals. I think these teams will end up in a stalemate. The Pick: Draw 1-1
Australia(PICK) vs. Ghana - How can anyone go with Australia after they got humiliated by Germany? Ghana can put themselves at the top of the group with a win here. While I don’t expect Australia to get squashed again, I do expect them to fall to a hungrier team. The Pick: Ghana 1-0
Mixed results on today’s set of games, hopefully nothing but positive results tomorrow.
Soccer YTD: ATS 9-12-5 (44.2%), O/U 13-13 (50%)
Slovakia(PICK) vs. Paraguay, 2.5 - These teams find themselves in a four-way tie with Italy and New Zealand. So wins are vital for all four countries now. It really is a toss-up, but I’m going with the slight underdog in Slovakia. The Pick: Slovakia 1-0
New Zealand(+1.5) vs. Italy, 2.5 - With the situation this group is in as I mentioned above, a win is very needed for both these teams. We’ve already seen several upsets in this tournament, I’m predicting another here. I see New Zealand shocking the lackluster Italians. The Pick: New Zealand 1-0
Ivory Coast(+1) vs. Brazil, 2.5 - This should be a very entertaining game. The Ivory Coast played to a stalemate with Portugal. While Brazil did just enough to defeat North Korea. Although they face better opposition here than they did in their opener, I see Brazil coming out with another victory. The Pick: Brazil 3-1
Soccer YTD: ATS 9-12-5 (44.2%), O/U 13-13 (50%)
Slovakia(PICK) vs. Paraguay, 2.5 - These teams find themselves in a four-way tie with Italy and New Zealand. So wins are vital for all four countries now. It really is a toss-up, but I’m going with the slight underdog in Slovakia. The Pick: Slovakia 1-0
New Zealand(+1.5) vs. Italy, 2.5 - With the situation this group is in as I mentioned above, a win is very needed for both these teams. We’ve already seen several upsets in this tournament, I’m predicting another here. I see New Zealand shocking the lackluster Italians. The Pick: New Zealand 1-0
Ivory Coast(+1) vs. Brazil, 2.5 - This should be a very entertaining game. The Ivory Coast played to a stalemate with Portugal. While Brazil did just enough to defeat North Korea. Although they face better opposition here than they did in their opener, I see Brazil coming out with another victory. The Pick: Brazil 3-1
I had my best day of picks so far in the World Cup today, as I went 2-1 ATS and a perfect 3-0 on the O/U!
Soccer YTD: ATS 11-13-5 (46.6%), O/U 16-13 (55.2%)
North Korea(+1.5) vs. Portugal - This is Portugal’s best opportunity to secure a victory in their group and they have to make the most of it. North Korea will be officially eliminated with a loss so they’re going to have to put up more of an offensive attack than they did against Brazil. However, pressing forward more is going to result in the Korean defense opening up and getting exploited by Ronaldo on the counterattacks. The Pick: Portugal 2-0
Switzerland(PICK) vs. Chile - Switzerland already pulled off a major upset over Spain and Chile defeated Honduras in their opening match-ups. So these two teams are going to be playing for 1st place within their group. With Spain next on their schedule, I have to believe Chile are going to be playing more for a win. Having already defeated Spain, the Swiss will be content to play to a draw. That means that they’ll focus on defense and if it’s anything like it was against Spain, then Chile won’t be able to break through it. The Pick: Draw 0-0
Honduras(+2) vs. Spain - Spain really needs to win here after being upset in their opening match. Look for them to come out very aggressive in the opening minutes of this game and get a quick goal or two. Honduras won’t have the ability to battle back from a deficit with Spain falling back on defense to protect it’s lead. The Pick: Spain 3-0
Soccer YTD: ATS 11-13-5 (46.6%), O/U 16-13 (55.2%)
North Korea(+1.5) vs. Portugal - This is Portugal’s best opportunity to secure a victory in their group and they have to make the most of it. North Korea will be officially eliminated with a loss so they’re going to have to put up more of an offensive attack than they did against Brazil. However, pressing forward more is going to result in the Korean defense opening up and getting exploited by Ronaldo on the counterattacks. The Pick: Portugal 2-0
Switzerland(PICK) vs. Chile - Switzerland already pulled off a major upset over Spain and Chile defeated Honduras in their opening match-ups. So these two teams are going to be playing for 1st place within their group. With Spain next on their schedule, I have to believe Chile are going to be playing more for a win. Having already defeated Spain, the Swiss will be content to play to a draw. That means that they’ll focus on defense and if it’s anything like it was against Spain, then Chile won’t be able to break through it. The Pick: Draw 0-0
Honduras(+2) vs. Spain - Spain really needs to win here after being upset in their opening match. Look for them to come out very aggressive in the opening minutes of this game and get a quick goal or two. Honduras won’t have the ability to battle back from a deficit with Spain falling back on defense to protect it’s lead. The Pick: Spain 3-0
Another good day of World Cup picks for the most part. We now get into 4 games a day as they conclude the group stage of the tournament.
Soccer YTD: ATS 13-14-5 (48.4%), O/U 17-15 (53.1%)
South Africa(PICK) vs. France, 2.5 – France has looked horrible in this tournament and most expected that coming in. The whole organization is just a mess right now. Still, you can’t ignore how awful the African teams have performed on their own continent. Expect an ugly match from two ugly teams with both sides coming out as losers. The Pick: Draw 0-0
Mexico(PICK) vs. Uruguay, 1.5 – Both these teams will make it through with a draw. But a win guarantees first place in the group and a more favorable match-up in the next round. Uruguay has been the more impressive of the two teams. They’ve yet to give up a goal, while Mexico gave up a goal to a lousy South African team. Uruguay has also shown that they have superior striking and it will lead to them coming out on top here. The Pick: Uruguay 1-0
Greece(+1) vs. Argentina, 2.5 – You could make an argument for Argentina being the best team in the tournament so far. Greece on the other hand, probably would’ve been out by now. But they got the gift of playing a 10-man Nigeria team for most of their match. Even with the Greeks playing to win here, Argentina will be just too strong for them. The Pick: Argentina 2-0
Nigeria(PICK) vs. South Korea, 2.5 – Even though they lost both their games so far, Nigeria has a slim chance of reaching the next round. So with that in their minds, they will surely be playing to win. South Korea can get through with a draw and a loss by Greece. But you want to control your own destiny, and because of this I believe that they will play to win. It won’t be an easy game by any means, but I picture South Korea emerging in the end. The Pick: South Korea 2-1
Soccer YTD: ATS 13-14-5 (48.4%), O/U 17-15 (53.1%)
South Africa(PICK) vs. France, 2.5 – France has looked horrible in this tournament and most expected that coming in. The whole organization is just a mess right now. Still, you can’t ignore how awful the African teams have performed on their own continent. Expect an ugly match from two ugly teams with both sides coming out as losers. The Pick: Draw 0-0
Mexico(PICK) vs. Uruguay, 1.5 – Both these teams will make it through with a draw. But a win guarantees first place in the group and a more favorable match-up in the next round. Uruguay has been the more impressive of the two teams. They’ve yet to give up a goal, while Mexico gave up a goal to a lousy South African team. Uruguay has also shown that they have superior striking and it will lead to them coming out on top here. The Pick: Uruguay 1-0
Greece(+1) vs. Argentina, 2.5 – You could make an argument for Argentina being the best team in the tournament so far. Greece on the other hand, probably would’ve been out by now. But they got the gift of playing a 10-man Nigeria team for most of their match. Even with the Greeks playing to win here, Argentina will be just too strong for them. The Pick: Argentina 2-0
Nigeria(PICK) vs. South Korea, 2.5 – Even though they lost both their games so far, Nigeria has a slim chance of reaching the next round. So with that in their minds, they will surely be playing to win. South Korea can get through with a draw and a loss by Greece. But you want to control your own destiny, and because of this I believe that they will play to win. It won’t be an easy game by any means, but I picture South Korea emerging in the end. The Pick: South Korea 2-1
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My winning percentage ATS rises for the 5th straight day.
Soccer YTD: ATS 15-15-6 (50%), O/U 20-16 (55.6%)
Slovenia(+1.5) vs. England, 2.5 – A tie would be all Slovenia needs to advance. England needs to win this game or they are out. So expect to see Slovenia playing very conservatively and keeping most of their men back. While England has to play with an urgency that they’ve failed to show so far. They just haven’t created goal scoring opportunities, but that will change in this match. The pressure is on and you’ve gotta believe that Rooney will step up for the UK. The Pick: England 1-0
Algeria(+1) vs. USA, 2.5 – USA can possibly get through with a tie in this game, but a win guarantees that they advance to the next round. So surely they will be playing to win. Their problem has been falling behind to opponents early and having to battle back to tie. That shouldn’t be the case against Algeria though, as they have yet to score a single goal in this tournament. I really don’t see the U.S. having too much difficulty in getting a win here. The Pick: USA 2-0
Australia(+1) vs. Serbia, 2.5 – There are a lot of possible outcomes for both these teams to advance. But basically, both need a victory here. I believe that this game will come down to defense. Serbia has given up just 1 goal in it’s first two matches, while Australia has given up 5. Both have scored just 1 goal each, so don’t expect much offense. Serbia could pull out a win, but I’m seeing this one ending in a stalemate. The Pick: Draw 1-1
Ghana(+1) vs. Germany, 2.5 – Coming off their loss to Serbia, this is now a must-win game for Germany. And I really don’t see Ghana being able to stop the Germans from having their way in this match. They have too much talent and too much experience to fail at this point. The Pick: Germany 3-0
Soccer YTD: ATS 15-15-6 (50%), O/U 20-16 (55.6%)
Slovenia(+1.5) vs. England, 2.5 – A tie would be all Slovenia needs to advance. England needs to win this game or they are out. So expect to see Slovenia playing very conservatively and keeping most of their men back. While England has to play with an urgency that they’ve failed to show so far. They just haven’t created goal scoring opportunities, but that will change in this match. The pressure is on and you’ve gotta believe that Rooney will step up for the UK. The Pick: England 1-0
Algeria(+1) vs. USA, 2.5 – USA can possibly get through with a tie in this game, but a win guarantees that they advance to the next round. So surely they will be playing to win. Their problem has been falling behind to opponents early and having to battle back to tie. That shouldn’t be the case against Algeria though, as they have yet to score a single goal in this tournament. I really don’t see the U.S. having too much difficulty in getting a win here. The Pick: USA 2-0
Australia(+1) vs. Serbia, 2.5 – There are a lot of possible outcomes for both these teams to advance. But basically, both need a victory here. I believe that this game will come down to defense. Serbia has given up just 1 goal in it’s first two matches, while Australia has given up 5. Both have scored just 1 goal each, so don’t expect much offense. Serbia could pull out a win, but I’m seeing this one ending in a stalemate. The Pick: Draw 1-1
Ghana(+1) vs. Germany, 2.5 – Coming off their loss to Serbia, this is now a must-win game for Germany. And I really don’t see Ghana being able to stop the Germans from having their way in this match. They have too much talent and too much experience to fail at this point. The Pick: Germany 3-0
A perfect 4-0 ATS on today’s games!
Soccer YTD: ATS 19-15-6 (55%), O/U 22-18 (55%)
New Zealand(+1) vs. Paraguay, 2.5 – New Zealand almost pulled off the upset against Italy on Sunday, but it was more a case of Italy playing so poorly than New Zealand doing anything impressive. Paraguay only needs a draw to advance, but they’re good enough to win convincingly here. The Pick: Paraguay 2-0
Slovakia(+1) vs. Italy, 2.5 – It’s very simple for Italy, win and your in. They haven’t looked good at all, just managing draws against Paraguay and New Zealand. The real problem is goal scoring, they’re lacking that star striker they’ve had in the past like Baggio or Totti. Their defense should be able to hold Slovakia scoreless though, so all they need is 1 goal and I believe somebody will provide that for them. The Pick: Italy 1-0
Japan(PICK) vs. Denmark, 2.5 – A trip to the next round is on the line in this match. Japan can advance with a draw, while Denmark is in a must-win situation. This game is going to come down to defense and Japan has shown solid defense thus far in group play. They’ve given up just 1 goal, while the Danes have allowed 3. I fully expect Denmark to press forward more and control possession throughout the match, but they will fall short of victory. The Pick: Draw 1-1
Cameroon(+1) vs. Holland, 2.5 – This is a completely meaningless game. The Dutch have already advanced, while Cameroon have already been eliminated. The only thing to play for is pride. Because of this, don’t be surprised if Holland rests some of their stars for the next round. Even if they play with a secondary squad, they should be able to defeat Cameroon. The Pick: Holland 1-0
Soccer YTD: ATS 19-15-6 (55%), O/U 22-18 (55%)
New Zealand(+1) vs. Paraguay, 2.5 – New Zealand almost pulled off the upset against Italy on Sunday, but it was more a case of Italy playing so poorly than New Zealand doing anything impressive. Paraguay only needs a draw to advance, but they’re good enough to win convincingly here. The Pick: Paraguay 2-0
Slovakia(+1) vs. Italy, 2.5 – It’s very simple for Italy, win and your in. They haven’t looked good at all, just managing draws against Paraguay and New Zealand. The real problem is goal scoring, they’re lacking that star striker they’ve had in the past like Baggio or Totti. Their defense should be able to hold Slovakia scoreless though, so all they need is 1 goal and I believe somebody will provide that for them. The Pick: Italy 1-0
Japan(PICK) vs. Denmark, 2.5 – A trip to the next round is on the line in this match. Japan can advance with a draw, while Denmark is in a must-win situation. This game is going to come down to defense and Japan has shown solid defense thus far in group play. They’ve given up just 1 goal, while the Danes have allowed 3. I fully expect Denmark to press forward more and control possession throughout the match, but they will fall short of victory. The Pick: Draw 1-1
Cameroon(+1) vs. Holland, 2.5 – This is a completely meaningless game. The Dutch have already advanced, while Cameroon have already been eliminated. The only thing to play for is pride. Because of this, don’t be surprised if Holland rests some of their stars for the next round. Even if they play with a secondary squad, they should be able to defeat Cameroon. The Pick: Holland 1-0
After a great day of picks on Wednesday, it was the opposite story today.
Soccer YTD: ATS 20-18-6 (52.3%), O/U 23-21 (52.3%)
North Korea(+1.5) vs. Ivory Coast, 2.5 – These teams are both out. Officially, Ivory Coast can get in if they win 9-0 and Portugal loses, but that’s not going to happen. It should be a one-sided game with Ivory Coast winning handily, but not nearly by the amount they are hoping for. The Pick: Ivory Coast 2-0
Portugal(PICK) vs. Brazil, 2.5 – Both of these teams are already in the next round. So we could see a laid back Brazil playing for a draw. But, Portugal would win the group if they defeat Brazil here. And I fully expect them to make an effort to do that. Brazil will be without Kaka due to his being carded out in the last match. Portugal has nothing to lose in this game. We saw Brazil give up goals to both the Ivory Coast and North Korea, so Portugal can certainly put a couple in the back of the net. I think they’re going to catch Brazil off guard and steal the group. The Pick: Portugal 2-1
Chile(+1) vs. Spain, 2.5 – Spain cannot afford anything less than a victory here. They put themselves in an early hole by losing to Switzerland in the opening match, but rebounded nicely against Honduras. They have too many quality players to fail at this point. Chile has looked good up to this point, but I see them being outclassed tomorrow. The Pick: Spain 2-0
Honduras(+1) vs. Switzerland, 2.5 – There is a convoluted scenario that could see Honduras advancing to the next round, but the reality is they’re dead. They have given up 3 goals so far, and not scored a single goal of their own. Switzerland has a legitimate shot at advancing if they can win here. They aren’t great at scoring goals, but I believe they’ll manage at least 1. The Pick: Switzerland 1-0
Soccer YTD: ATS 20-18-6 (52.3%), O/U 23-21 (52.3%)
North Korea(+1.5) vs. Ivory Coast, 2.5 – These teams are both out. Officially, Ivory Coast can get in if they win 9-0 and Portugal loses, but that’s not going to happen. It should be a one-sided game with Ivory Coast winning handily, but not nearly by the amount they are hoping for. The Pick: Ivory Coast 2-0
Portugal(PICK) vs. Brazil, 2.5 – Both of these teams are already in the next round. So we could see a laid back Brazil playing for a draw. But, Portugal would win the group if they defeat Brazil here. And I fully expect them to make an effort to do that. Brazil will be without Kaka due to his being carded out in the last match. Portugal has nothing to lose in this game. We saw Brazil give up goals to both the Ivory Coast and North Korea, so Portugal can certainly put a couple in the back of the net. I think they’re going to catch Brazil off guard and steal the group. The Pick: Portugal 2-1
Chile(+1) vs. Spain, 2.5 – Spain cannot afford anything less than a victory here. They put themselves in an early hole by losing to Switzerland in the opening match, but rebounded nicely against Honduras. They have too many quality players to fail at this point. Chile has looked good up to this point, but I see them being outclassed tomorrow. The Pick: Spain 2-0
Honduras(+1) vs. Switzerland, 2.5 – There is a convoluted scenario that could see Honduras advancing to the next round, but the reality is they’re dead. They have given up 3 goals so far, and not scored a single goal of their own. Switzerland has a legitimate shot at advancing if they can win here. They aren’t great at scoring goals, but I believe they’ll manage at least 1. The Pick: Switzerland 1-0
We have now reached the second round of the tournament. Please note that these odds cover 90 minutes + stoppage time only, not overtime or penalty kicks.
Soccer YTD: 22-19-7 (53.1%), O/U 24-24 (50%)
South Korea(PICK) vs. Uruguay, 2.5 – Uruguay showed a solid striking game in the group stage and have yet to give up a single goal. South Korea was not as impressive in their group games, going 1-1-1. They have allowed more goals than they’ve scored and are definitely the underdog in this. Uruguay is flying under the radar in this tournament, but they’re in a great position to make a deep run. I see them having the edge in every aspect of the game and South Korea won’t have any answers for the duo of Forlan and Suarez. The Pick: Uruguay 2-0
Ghana(PICK) vs. United States, 2.5 – Ghana defeated the US back in the 2006 Cup, but they possessed a better offense at that time than they do now. Their two goals in this tournament have both come from penalty kicks so they haven’t shown the ability to put together a genuine scoring attack. They do have quickness though and the U.S. defense is suspect. If the U.S. can avoid falling behind to another early goal, then they should win this game. They create a lot of scoring chances and have multiple scoring threats from Altidore to Dempsey to Donovan. Ghana has a very good defense that held Germany to just 1 goal and, being the only African team left, they will have a huge crowd advantage. But it just seems like the U.S. is too resilient to go home yet. The Pick: USA 2-1
Soccer YTD: 22-19-7 (53.1%), O/U 24-24 (50%)
South Korea(PICK) vs. Uruguay, 2.5 – Uruguay showed a solid striking game in the group stage and have yet to give up a single goal. South Korea was not as impressive in their group games, going 1-1-1. They have allowed more goals than they’ve scored and are definitely the underdog in this. Uruguay is flying under the radar in this tournament, but they’re in a great position to make a deep run. I see them having the edge in every aspect of the game and South Korea won’t have any answers for the duo of Forlan and Suarez. The Pick: Uruguay 2-0
Ghana(PICK) vs. United States, 2.5 – Ghana defeated the US back in the 2006 Cup, but they possessed a better offense at that time than they do now. Their two goals in this tournament have both come from penalty kicks so they haven’t shown the ability to put together a genuine scoring attack. They do have quickness though and the U.S. defense is suspect. If the U.S. can avoid falling behind to another early goal, then they should win this game. They create a lot of scoring chances and have multiple scoring threats from Altidore to Dempsey to Donovan. Ghana has a very good defense that held Germany to just 1 goal and, being the only African team left, they will have a huge crowd advantage. But it just seems like the U.S. is too resilient to go home yet. The Pick: USA 2-1
