Welcome to the preview of the first Semi Final of the 2014 World Cup with a massive clash between Brazil and Germany. The last time these two met at a World Cup was in the 2002 final where Brazil won 2-0 thanks to a brace from Brazilian Legend Ronaldo. Brazil might not possess the star power that their 2002 predecessors had in the likes of Ronaldo, Rivaldo, Ronaldinho, Roberto Carlos, and Cafu, but it won’t detract from the belief the home crowd will have here, even without Neymar and Thiago Silva. I dare say we will continue to see some low scoring games with just 3 of the last 14 World Cup Semi Finals back to 1986 venturing over 2.5 goals.
**Odds from betfair as at 7th July
Brazil ($2.88) versus Germany ($2.82), Draw ($3.3)
The task for Brazil became a whole lot harder when they lost Neymar to injury whilst Thiago Silva will also be out thanks to suspension. Germany are marginal favourites as a result given that they haven’t been in strong form since their opening game blitz of Portugal. They are however in a much healthier position fitness wise and have the luxury of being able to pick the best XI. Perhaps their biggest dilemma will be whether to start Klose again or use Muller up front with both options workable considering Brazil will be reshuffling their defence in the absence of Silva. For Brazil, they have much bigger issues in picking a side without Neymar and whilst at looks all doom and gloom, it could be a blessing in disguise. For one thing it could take the focus off one key player in the side and instead the side may spread the load a little more and play with a little more freedom without looking for Neymar as the best option to create and score. On the other hand though I have to wonder who exactly will create and score goals against a pretty strong defensive unit. Oscar is an obvious choice but he’ll need plenty of support to add to his 1 goal and 2 assists so far and I’m not sure where that support will come from.
Whilst I can’t rule out a Brazil capitulation as I’m sure they will believe and give everything especially in support of Neymar, I’m not sure if they can hold off Germany here with defence becoming their biggest concern even with the experienced Dante likely to come in for Thiago Silva. It’s no doubt going to be a tough one here regardless with plenty of pressure on both sides but for me I can see Germany qualifying for the final here.
Predicted score (Normal time): Germany 1-0
Best Bet (Normal time): Under 2.5 goals at $1.6 (85%)
Next Best: Germany to qualify at $1.94
Please Note:
All of the above are the opinions of the author and are not recommendations or advice. The author may not be taking every bet listed above. Bet at your own risk.
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