Group D World Cup Betting Predictions
by Nila Amerova
Following the opening round of matches in Group D, the battle line was drawn according to predictions - the favorites Mexico and Portugal sitting victorious on one side with their three points each, while Angola and Iran sit thus far in defeat on the other side with zero points a piece.
Popular opinion regards Portugal, with their smooth skill and attacking flair, as the Brazil of European soccer. Opening on the money line at (-300) they are the overwhelming favorites for their next match-up against Iran opening at (+800). Some of Portugal’s dazzle and flair was on display in their first match against what looked to be a terrified Angola, but in the end all the Portuguese managed was a 1-0 victory to the chagrin and disappointment of their fans. They seemed content with ball possession, rarely threatening the Angolan defense. It is not that they are lacking in striking power for with Luis Figo, Pauletta, Nuno Gomes Christiano Ronaldo and the imminent return of midfielder Deco they are well stocked up-front in talent. In spite of their attacking clout, Portugal is held over Iran on the spread by one and a half points.
The draw bet opens at (+300) on the money line for Portugal’s match-up with Iran. Considering that this match is Iran’s last chance to vie for a spot in Round 16 then one should view this second round match-up as a final. A draw result simply would not do for Iran’s World Cup Campaign, nor would it do justice to the comparisons between Portugal and Brazil. While the return on the draw bet for this match-up would be sweet, both sides will go all out for the win and the three points at this stage. This is not to say that a draw result is not a possibility. However, if the results of the preceding Group’s second round matches are any indication of the trend to come in subsequent Group’s, then the draw is simply not enough at this stage for any team desperate to keep it’s World Cup dreams alive.
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