2014 World Cup Free Picks: Germany vs. Argentina

3 p.m., Sunday, July 13 - Estadio do Maracana, Rio de Janeiro (ABC)

Match Betting Lines

The 2014 FIFA World Cup Final has Germany as consensus +110 favorites. Argentina are considerable underdogs at +250 while the draw is listed at +240. The total in this match is 2 goals.

Germany

Germany have been simply efficient thus far into the knockout round, doing just enough to progress. They used all 90 minutes minus extra time to defeat upstart Algeria in the Round of 16 then got by France in the quarters with a 1-0 scoreline. That wasn't the case in the semis with a 7-1 thrashing of hosts Brazil. Some were amazed and surprised at the result. Others were utterly impressed. Either way that big victory is the reason the Germans are the consensus favorite to win their fourth FIFA World Cup Trophy in Rio de Janeiro.

Argentina

Another team who for the most part have not played the dominating football they are capable of. Lionel Messi has been terrific leading up the Final, however his supportive cast to a certain degree have underwhelmed. That cannot be the case against Germany, as anything less than the South Americans' best match of the tournament will likely only be good enough for second place. Germany are firing on all cylinders coming into this title bout, and it will be very interesting to see how Argentina respond to their opponent's high level of play in this pressure-filled match.

Match Analysis

I won't be surprised to see Germany dictate the terms of this match. We've seen Argentina less aggressive than perhaps most billed this team as coming to Brazil. Germany are one of the best counter-attacking units in world football, but I think Argentina will a better chance to use this feature, as Germany will keep the majority of possession and feel as though they can state the terms of how the 2014 World Cup Final is to be played out.

Key Injuries, Suspensions, Yellow Cards

Argentina winger Angel Di Maria did not feature in the team's semi final match vs. Netherlands. His status for the Final is still a doubt. His teammate Sergio Aguero did recover to play a role last match, albeit as a substitute late in the match. His fitness likely will not be at 100 percent either against Germany.

Guy's Pick

Germany didn't roll through Brazil just to come up short yet again a major tournament. Finally, the Germans get the title they have been so desperate for the last decade or so. Argentina are going to make this a very good, competitive football match, but Germany has too much talent, too much skill and too much of a good thing going at the moment to be kept from being crowned World Cup champions. Germany win 2-1.

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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