An eclectic Group F is led by 4 time champions Italy (1934, 1938, 1982, 2006). The Italians will be joined by fellow Europeans Slovakia, Oceania powerhouse (now that the Aussies have left) New Zealand, and South American dark horses (according to Mr Potter) Paraguay.
Italy ($1.15 to advance) – The defending champions, Italy travel to South Africa looking to do what no team has done since Brazil in 1958 & 1962 - win back to back titles. It is fair to say the Italians haven’t aged well over the last 4 years and to some degree look a shell of the squad that took the title in Germany. Still, they are packed full of world class defenders and defensive midfielders who will prove almost impossible to break down for all but the best attacks. A mouth watering quarter-final against Spain awaits!
Slovakia ($2.30) – A relative minnow by European standards the Slovaks have one-upped their former Czech brothers by qualifying for South Africa in their absence. In fact this is the first appearance at the tournament by Slovakia in its own right as an independent nation. However, the Slovaks should not be happy with just keeping up appearances, as they must be some chance to advance in what isn’t the strongest group.
New Zealand ($15.00) – Who? In all seriousness it is a top effort for New Zealand just to make it this far with a squad that is basically A-League side Wellington Phoenix with a few extra additions (hell even the coach is the same!). Magnificently defeated Bahrain in a two-leg playoff to get to the finals for the second time in their history. However, it is hard to see such a poor squad doing any damage here and it will be no surprise to see them go out in straight sets.
Paraguay ($1.50) – Ever consistent, the Paraguayan’s have made it to the finals for the fourth tournament in succession, a top effort given they reside in the daunting CONMEBOL (South American for the laymen) qualifying group. The squad will surely be dedicating their performance to star striker Salvador Cabanas who will tragically miss the tournament after being shot in a Mexico City bar. La Albirroja definitely have the ability to get to at least the knockout stages.
What 2 Watch 4 – For those who like to see the goals flow I’m guessing you could do worse than watch the New Zealand games. It will be touch and go whether they can concede less than 10 goals in their three group games.
Suggested Investment – One of the worst groups to bet on with little value to be found anywhere. I think the way to go is just an all up with New Zealand to lose all 3 of their games – you should get about $2.40 for that.
Prices courtesy of Betfair.
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