2014 World Cup Free Picks: Netherlands vs. Mexico

12 p.m., Sunday, June 29 – Estadio Castelao, Fortaleza (ESPN)

Match Betting Lines

Holland has advanced as Group B winners and have been listed at EVEN money. Mexico, a somewhat surprise team, are +275 while the draw is listed at +250. The total for this match is listed at 2.5 goals.

Netherlands

The Dutch flourished from start to finish in all three of their group stage matches. From their 5-1 demolition of Spain to a comeback victory against Australia to a workman like 2-0 effort against Chile to second the top spot, Netherlands is in top form at the moment. But I must admit, this strong effort reminds me of their Euro 2008 campaign when they dominated group play only to run into the wrong underdog in Russia which saw them bounced shockingly in the first knockout stage of that tournament six years ago. And, well, Mexico perhaps is that kind of an underdog.

Mexico

My how long ago Mexico’s World Cup qualifying struggles appear to be. The team has responded with the bright lights on them and the results have come together. Mexico’s most impressive group play result was their 0-0 effort against Brazil. Their 3-1 win over Croatia to seal the deal also proved this team is not a fluke but a side to really take seriously, especially with their strong defense.

Match Analysis

This match comes down to the individual brilliance of both Robin van Persie and Arjen Robben. These two Dutch playmakers will be looking to create one or two wonderful moments to propel Holland to the quarterfinals. Mexico goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa will be standing in the duo’s way, as he has been a brick wall thus far between the posts for team Mexico with just one goal allowed from three matches.

Key Injuries, Suspensions, Yellow Cards

Mexico central defender Jose Juan Vazquez will be suspended for this match due to yellow card accumulation. Besides that, expect the best from each squad in this match.

Tony’s Pick

You’d have to think the Mexico defense will keep themselves in the match for the entirety. Finishing in he final third has been a difficult ask for Mexico’s attack, so I think falling behind and recovering would be a tall order for this team. When all said and done, I see a 1-0 win for Holland over the Mexicans. Mexico have made it to the elimination round six straight World Cup tournaments, but all six times they have lost at this stage. It will be a seventh in a row against a more well -rounded Holland team.

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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