2014 World Cup Free Picks: France vs. Germany

12 p.m., Friday, July 4 - Estadio do Maracana, Rio de Janeiro (ESPN2)

Match Betting Lines

France are +229 in their quarterfinal match against a Germany team slightly favored at +150. The draw can be bet at +229 while the total is set at 2.5 goals

France

Another victory for France in their Round of 16 tie against Nigeria only further develops the confidence of this talented bunch. Seen as an outsider in this tournament prior to June at 25/1 odds to win, the French are slowing rewriting the storylines to include themselves in the mix as one of the top teams to be considering for the World Cup Trophy. This will be a true test of their prospective World Cup title run as Germany are another of the favorites in the field. Despite being a slight underdog, based on quality of play from both thus far, you'd have to say France has been more impressive.

Germany

Having played their worst match of the tournament last round against Algeria, there is growing concern that this Germany team is ripe for the picking, and certainly that will be seen as the case when they take on a supremely gifted France side here. The defense is a serious question mark, having employed four centre backs on the starting back line and essentially going with players who are forced into new positions.

Match Analysis

France have as balanced a team as anyone in Brazil. With that, they are seen to be able to create mismatches across the field, both in the middle of the midfield and out wide on the flanks. The combination of Benzema and Giroud did not flourish last round, so it will be interesting to see if manager Didier Deschamps opts for winger Antoine Griezmann instead as a starter rather than in a substitute role.

Key Injuries, Suspensions, Yellow Cards

German defender Shkodran Mustafi is out of the tournament after his injury against Algeria. It is not yet known what manager Joachim Loew will do in replacement of him.

Tony's Pick

Either team could advance. This is where the Word Cup really gets intriguing. However France are the better team from what they have shown thus far and for their balance and consistency. Maybe Germany at its best are more dangerous, but they are a more unsure side of quality in their performance. Plus, I do not trust their defense what it matters most. France is surer at the back, just two goals allowed in four matches. France wins 2-1 and books a spot in the 2014 World Cup semifinals.

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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