2014 World Cup Free Picks: United States vs. Portugal

6 p.m., Sunday, June 22 – Arena Amazonia, Manaus (ESPN)

Match Betting Lines

The United States are +500 while Portugal is listed as -138 in this match. The draw is listed at +290 and the total is set at 2.5 goals.

United States

It wasn’t easy, and it took a late winner, however the USA got the win they coveted against Ghana. Now they will look for at least a point against Portugal to see if they can’t take one step closer to advancing from the Group of Death.

Portugal

What a horrible match the Portuguese played against Germany. They looked awful and nothing went right. It’s just one result, and a win here would suit them well heading into their final group play match against Ghana. Cristiano Ronaldo needs to make himself a bigger factor despite his teammates struggling to provide service.

Match Analysis

You’d have to think the US will be doing more defending, similar to their match against Ghana. Portugal will be looking for redemption following their 4-0 loss to Germany, and thus an attacking mindset will likely be had from the first kick.

Key Injuries, Suspensions, Yellow Cards

Portugal is without defender Pepe because of his red card last match. Fellow defender Fabio Coentrao is also out as is striker Hugo Almeida due to injuries. The United States likely will be without Jose Altidore with his hamstring injury picked up early vs. Ghana.

Guy’s Pick

Portugal will be desperate for a win. But the momentum and confidence the United States will bring into this match is a huge x-factor. I think they find a way to earn at least a draw from this match. I say a 1-1 finish is the score between these two after the full 90.

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 Guy Bruhn