2014 World Cup Free Picks: Spain vs. Chile

3 p.m., Wednesday, June 18 – Estadio do Maracana, Rio de Janeiro (ESPN)

Match Betting Lines

Spain is favored at -133 to bounce back from their opening defeat. Chile is +400 against a team they played in the group stages in the 2010 World Cup. The draw is priced at +333 while the total is listed at 2.5 goals, -120 for the ‘over’ and EVEN for the ‘under.’

Spain

This match against Chile is easily the most important match the team has played in quite some time. I say that respectively, however never over the last half decade has Spain required a bigger bounce back effort after their massive setback at the hands of Holland.

Chile

Another South American team that impressed in their Word Cup opener, Chile is hardly the type of team Spain wants to play in a must-win fixture. Pace and attacking prowess are two things Chile can continue to improve upon against a suddenly shaky Spanish defense.

Match Analysis

If Spain doesn’t win this match, they can’t control their destiny in the group. You’d like to think this is the time for the champs to show their resolve, however you can’t help but wonder if their first match was a sign that this tournament is perhaps a very short one for the current holders.

Key Injuries, Suspensions, Yellow Cards

Midfielder Arturo Vidal was subbed out before an hour of play, which suggests he still isn’t fully fit following his recent injury. His status is one to keep an eye of prior to kickoff.

Josh’s Pick

Most people will pick Spain to win this match and get back on track. But I simply think this is going to be another struggle for them. I ultimately see a 1-1 draw, however I would also not be surprised to see Chile take this one, 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.

Read more articles by Josh Schonwald