World Cup Futures Betting Update: Group F
We’ll provide free soccer picks, group by group world cup 2010 predictions, team schedules, our World Cup Handicapping Guide, matchup analysis and more.
Wow. How ecstatic are the defending champion Italians over their Group F draw? They really seem to have a walk. Breaking down the group is still relevant, of course, as there’s a second spot up for grabs.
Let’s break it down.
ITALY (+1425 to win World Cup)
The Italians may have played slightly over their heads en route to winning the 2006 World Cup in the infamous head-butt game, but they still bring a very solid squad to the table. They can score and they’re traditionally rock-solid on defense.
Gianluigi Buffon is the man in goal and Fabi Cannavaro is a great leader in the back end. I don’t see them being threatened at all in this group.
PARAGUAY (+8000 to win World Cup)
We have to respect Paraguay after its outstanding showing in recent home wins over Brazil and Argentina. These guys can score; Nelson Valdez and Roque Santa Cruz are dangerous with the ball and Salvador Cabanas was a force in qualifying with six goals.
Paraguay likely won’t make a deep run but it has a great shot to survive the group stage.
NEW ZEALAND (+75000 to win World Cup)
No team has worse sportsbook odds than New Zealand, which we really should file under “happy to be here.” Its captain, Ryan Nelsen, is an admirable leader and defender, but New Zealand will have trouble scoring. 
Its supposed go-to striker, Rory Fallon, struggled mightily in England this season.
New Zealand will have to work hard to avoid getting blown out.
SLOVAKIA (+30000 to win World Cup)
Maybe the Slovaks can draw inspiration from their hockey counterparts, who made a great showing at the Winter Olympics?
Paraguay has to look over its shoulder, as Slovakia has some talented players who could make things interesting. Martin Skrtel, who plays for Liverpool, anchors the defense. Captain Merk Hamsik is their star, talented 22-year-old who can play midfield or striker and could flash some brilliance on offense.
Slovakia versus Paraguay will almost certainly be the match to watch in this group.
THE PICKS
It would take an act of God to keep Italy from emerging from Group F. I think Paraguay will snag the second berth. It won’t be easy but its offensive depth should give it the slight edge over Slovakia.
Prediction: Italy and Slovakia
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