As the World Cup kicks off tomorrow, here are my plays for the Group Round. Playing all “advance” plays in the first round because, as we have seen in the past, some of the sides that make it out of the first round often do so in an unlikely order.
I wish you all the best of luck on your plays and enjoy The Beautiful Game!
GROUP A
South Africa to Advance from Group A (+225)
I love the home field and pressure to succeed pushing Bafana Bafana through this round. After that…? Let’s see how Pienaar rises to the occasion.
Mexico to Advance from Group A (-110)
I realize that Santos carries a lot (maybe too much) burden here and that there are questions about Mexico’s speed, but I just love the poise of Blanco (the real captain in my opinion) to help El Tri rise to the occasion.
GROUP B
Greece to Advance from Group B (+150)
Argentina should win this somewhat lopsided group, but I like Greece and their defensive prowess to overcome their questionable attack. Patience is the virtue of this Greek squad and they should be around after the first round.
GROUP C
United States to Advance from Group C (-135)
Never underestimate a strong midfield. The probable 4-4-1-1 formation should allow that strength at mid to support an underestimated, yet not sturdy, back line.