2014 World Cup Free Picks: France vs. Ecuador

4 p.m., Wednesday, June 25 – Estadio do Maracana, Rio de Janeiro (ESPN)

Match Betting Lines

France has all but secured the top spot in the group, and they are -118 here against the South Americans. Ecuador is +375 in this match with the draw being listed at +275. The total is 2.5 goals for this match.

France

Look out for Les Bleus. France steamrolled the Swiss with five goals to cement their status as one of the dark horses of this tournament. The French need just a draw to win the group, and that is important because it means the top spot here avoids Argentina in the Round of 16. This team is gelling right before our eyes and the squad looks like a dangerous threat headed to the next stages of this tournament. Karim Benzema leads the way for an attacking side that is rich in talent and full of playmakers, both in the starting line-up and ready to come off the bench as substitutes.

Ecuador

Bouncing back nicely over Honduras was just what the doctor ordered for Ecuador. And with Switzerland getting hammered, goal difference very well may play into the South Americans’ favor to get them through to the next round. They need at least a draw, but France won’t make things easy. Ecuador probably has to assume a win is needed with Switzerland playing Honduras.

Match Analysis

France’s game plan won’t change. Several key names in the line-up may be switched around or subbed for, however that won’t make a difference for a deep and talent-laden roster. Ecuador will likely sit back and defend, as they will not want to surrender goals should Switzerland win to potentially leapfrog them for the group’s second spot.

Key Injuries, Suspensions, Yellow Cards

French midfielder Yohan Cabaye earned two yellows in his two matches, and he’ll miss this tie. His teammate Paul Pogba has one as well, so don’t be surprised if he is rested to avoid a potential second and suspension in the Round of 16.

Guy’s Pick

France has momentum, and they will do everything they can to build on that, not let it dissipate. That means more attacking football with Didier Deschamps’ side dictating play in Ecuador’s half. The French are hot now and it only continues to improve with another victory. France wins, 3-1.

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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