2014 World Cup Free Picks: Costa Rica vs. Greece

4 p.m., Sunday, June 29 – Arena Pernambuco, Recife (ESPN)

Match Betting Lines

Costa Rica is a slight favorite at +155 while Greece comes into their Round of 16 match as +190 underdogs. The draw in this match is listed at +220 and the total is 2 goals. Alternatively, you can wager on Costa Rica to advance (90 minute win or via extra time or penalty kicks) at -125 and Greece at +100.

Costa Rica

Without doubt the surprise of the tournament. It is safe to say not many, if any, had the Central Americans advancing as winners from their group up against Uruguay, Italy and England. The Ticos were amazing from start to finish in their three matches against the big three slotted in their foursome. They overwhelmed a Uruguay side that definitely overlooked them, they were efficient to grind out a 1-0 win over Italy, and not even England (who were already eliminated) could muster something in attack against the very solid defensive shape of Costa Rica.

Greece

The Greeks play defensive football. Not too many objective fans enjoy watching them play, so when Greece won a last second penalty that was converted to stun Ivory Coast and advance to the knockout stages, it was met with some mixed feelings. Still, Greece has advanced and they won’t make it easy for opponents in this win-or-go-home scenario.

Match Analysis

If you thought Greece’s defensive shell was ever-present during the entirety of the group stage, it’s going to be even more of a factor here. Greece will sit back and allow Costa Rica to have the ball. With that, the Greeks will look for their spots to shoot the other way on a counter attack. That, along with their vaunted set piece opportunities with the size of the team, will be the team’s main weaponry in this match. Costa Rica will look to lean on Joel Campbell and Bryan Ruiz to spark their playmaking in Greece’s half of the pitch.

Key Injuries, Suspensions, Yellow Cards

Both teams will have their top players available as Costa Rica and Greece avoided any further suspensions or injuries in the lead-up to the Round of 16.

Josh’s Pick

Costa Rica has been too strong to all of a sudden fall out of form. Greece does not possess the attack to thwart the Central Americans and force them to play from behind. If Greece can be perfect in defense, then maybe they stand a chance to steal it in extra time or even penalties, but I see a 1-0 win for Costa Rica.

Doc’s Sports has full coverage of the 2014 World Cup and more articles throughout this summer’s major soccer tournament. Strike Point Sports is one of the top soccer handicappers with their success on the big tournament stage. From the 2006 World Cup, Euro 2008, 2010 World Cup and Euro 2012, SPS earned $100 clients over $8,200 in profit from these four major events. This summer’s World Cup is going to be another moneymaking opportunity, and they are looking forward to their soccer selections and another winning tournament.

Read more articles by Josh Schonwald