Friday’s Best World Cup Wagers
The World Cup is a month-long event with matches on a daily basis. Obviously, we here in the Covers.com newsroom are degenerates who can’t let a day go by without getting in on the action.
Here are our favorite plays for Day 1 of the World Cup.
South Africa (+187) vs. Mexico (+120)
In case you hadn’t heard, South Africans stink at soccer. They didn’t qualify for the last African Nations Cup and the only reason they’re playing with the big boys here is because they’re the host country.
So while many conspiracy theorists will argue that no hosting nation has ever failed to advance past the group stage, we argue that no host nation has ever been as pitiful as South Africa.
Mexico are a world power and always do well at the group stage. They’ve got the speed on the wings and a steady back line led by Barcelona defender Rafael Marquez.
Tri El lost friendly matches to England (3-1) and Netherlands (2-1) after besting the defending World Cup champs Italy earlier this month.
“I am bothered that we lost,” Mexico manager Javier Aguirre told the Los Angeles Times after the setback to England. “I’m not going to make excuses. But I am satisfied with some things. We showed confidence, character, personality.”
Aguirre won’t have to make excuses after his side thrashes the host country Friday.
Pick: Mexico
Uruguay (+260) vs. France (-111)
An injury scare to Diego Forlan nearly took the wind out of Uruguay’s sails but all signs suggest the star striker is fit and will be on the pitch for Friday’s match against France.
Both Uruguay and France’s qualification for the World Cup came down to the wire. Forlan’s side needed a playoff game against Coast Rica while Les Bleus only joined the party after Thierry Henry's famous helping hand.
Still, traditional power France are the big favorites in this match and to win Group B.
"Why would we be the favorites after being inconsistent in qualifying?" Uruguay coach Oscar Tabarez told USA Today. "We want to be seen as favorites, but we need to show why on the field."
The value seems to be all over the draw here. France has more talent but can’t be trusted after stretchy warmup matches.
Pick: Draw (+225)