Here we go, the group of death. I'll say it now:
I am rooting for USA. Saying that, I haven't missed a minute of a match this tournament and enjoy good football.
Cristiano Ronaldo is still struggling with tendinosis in his left knee, limiting him in international friendly time. In his absence Hugo Almeida has been a lethal striker. In their last friendly, Portugal had an easy 4-0 victory without a goal from Ronaldo, who got subbed in the 60th minute. However, I think this game is won in the midfield, and Germany have proven their toughness in the world cup. Neuer in goal with Lahm a star in defense, this country can go a long way.
Germany vs. Portugal
Future: Germany to Win Group G (-175) 1u
Spread: Germany -1.5 (even) 2u
O/U: Over 2.5 Goals (-140) 2u
Prop: Cristiano Ronaldo anytime goal scorer (1/1) 1u
The second game of Group F features evenly matched Iran and Nigeria. Neither team really have potent offensive weapons, so I expect this to be a battle of possession with limited action in the box. I expect Iran to play conservative for the first half before possibly opening up a few counter attacks after a substitution near the hour mark. I think Nigeria will get a goal off of a corner in the second half.
Iran vs. Nigeria
ML: Nigeria (+105) 2u
O/U: Under 2.5 Goals (-140) 2u
Finally, the match of the day. Ghana have eliminated United States from the previous two World Cups, both by the score of 2-1. I have had nothing to do but follow the United States national team and this is a completely different identity from previous years. This team looks to pressure defensively into an up-tempo counter. Klinsmann has experimented with different formations, but both of them focus on star midfielders Michael Bradley and Clint Dempsey. Now that Jozy Altidore has his confidence back after ending a year-long scoring drought, this US midfield will give him several chances a game. With all of that in mind, Ghana are a team that like to build the attack from the back and counter by crossing balls where three or more forwards are waiting in the box.
Like I said, optimistic US fan, so I am laying some money on the side for extra incentive to always cheer.
However, both the US and Mexico have realistic expectations of making it out of their group, so I made futures and props before they closed in the morning.
Germany vs. United States of America
Future: Top USA goal scorer: Jozy Altidore (9/2) 1u
Future: USA Stage of Elimination: Semi-finals (33/1) 1/2u
Future: Will USA Qualify From Their Group: Yes (+250) 1u
O/U: Over 2.5 Goals (-110) 2u
I am going to stay away from the money line and spread and just cheer on my squad hoping to see some Altidore and Dempsey goals.
BOL- USA USA USA!