2014 World Cup Free Picks: Croatia vs. Mexico

4 p.m., Monday, June 23 – Arena Pernambuco, Recife (ESPN)

Match Betting Lines

Croatia is the slightest of favorites at +150 while Mexico can be had for +200. The draw is posted at +250 and the total is set at 2.5 goals.

Croatia

Croatia responded magnificently from their loss to Brazil with a 4-0 thrashing of hopeless Cameroon. They are riding high into this winner-take-all match to decide one of two Group A spots to move on in the tournament. The team looked much more formidable with Marco Mandzukic back in the starting line-up following his suspension in the first match. Expect more of the same here.

Mexico

Mexico, just the same, couldn’t be any more pleased with their results thus far in the group stages. They held host Brazil and were really attractive going forward despite the 0-0 result. The biggest issue with the Mexican side is they are lacking a finished product in the final third of the field. They had a ton of opportunities against Brazil, and only one lone goal in two matches so far sums up their overall attack.

Match Analysis

A draw is enough to see Mexico through, but they must realize that Croatia will be throwing everything at them in attack to thwart any chance of not being one of the two to play in the elimination round. The midfield play of each decides this match. If Luka Modric can continue to orchestrate his Croatian teammates, I think that is the difference maker in this match.

Key Injuries, Suspensions, Yellow Cards

Both teams will be at full strength for this huge encounter.

Tony’s Pick

I like Croatia. Their attack is more versatile and stronger than Mexico. Consider that Croatia needs a win, and they know exactly what they are playing for. Mexico playing for a just a draw might not be in their best interest. 2-0 win to Croatia. Mexico might be playing inspired football at the moment, but with so much on the line and the prospects of having their World Cup finished at the group stages, now it will be really interesting to see how this team plays with something to lose.

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.

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