2014 World Cup Free Picks: Russia vs. South Korea

6 p.m., Tuesday, June 17 – Arena Pantanal, Cuiaba (ESPN)

Match Betting Lines

Russia is +131 in its World Cup group play opener while South Korea can be had for +275. The total is listed at 2 goals, EVEN for the ‘over’ and -120 for the ‘under.’

Russia

Fabio Capello’s squad is an interesting proposition. In recent major tournaments over the last half-decade before the Englishman took the reins as manager, Russia was always a team that loved getting forward and attacking with menace. Now, they seem a bit conservative by comparison, and I for one am unsure what to make of them in this tournament. I think against inferior teams like Korea and Algeria we’re more likely to see an attack-minded outfit.

South Korea

Another team from this group that is a wild card of sorts, South Korea has a big opportunity in front of them to establish themselves as a threat should they get a result from their match with Russia. Son Heung Min and Ki Sung Yeung are two ambitious playmakers leading the way.

Match Analysis

Russia is seen as the second best team in the group after favorites Belgium. I am not sure, however, if they are willing to accept a point from this first match, or run with it and go for all three. South Korea would gladly take a draw. I think Russia’s defending is the key to their ability to break on the counter.

Key Injuries, Suspensions, Yellow Cards

Russia was forced into removing their captain Roman Shirokov from the World Cup roster due to back issues. This certainly limits them to a degree in the midfield, but other players are there to atone for his absence.

Guy’s Pick

Despite not necessarily having a ton of confidence in South Korea to win, I don’t think they deserve to be as big of underdogs as they are. Russia should win this match, but I can’t help but feel a 1-1 draw or even a 2-1 surprise Korea victory.

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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