World Cup betting: March on with Les Elephants
Las Vegas Review-Journal sports writers Adam Hill and David Schoen have been given $5,000 fantasy bankrolls to bet during the World Cup on either sides, totals or props. Below are their bets for today, with an explanation of their picks:
ADAM HILL, REVIEW-JOURNAL
Bankroll: $4,795
Monday: Lost $405
Today: Betting $545
Bet 1: $345 on Uruguay (Pick, -115) over Italy
Comment: This is another game in which Uruguay needs to win and Italy can get through with a draw. It didn’t work out betting on Croatia in a similar spot Monday, but this play has the added value of being a South American team taking on a European side. Italy laid an egg against Costa Rica and might be desperate to get its draw and move on. Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani will find a way for Uruguay to get through.
Bet 2: $200 on Ivory Coast (-½, plus-105) over Greece
Comment: There is a danger here in that Ivory Coast would be in good position to advance with a draw. Look for it to try to ensure a spot in the quarterfinals by winning the match, though. Greece is far more comfortable sitting back defensively, but there should be cracks in the defense as it will come forward knowing it needs a victory to have a chance to move on.
DAVID SCHOEN, REVIEW-JOURNAL
Bankroll: $4,155
Monday: Won $0
Today: Betting $200
Bet 1: $200 on Ivory Coast (-½, plus-105) over Greece
Comment: Greece has been dreadful in this World Cup and is one of only two sides (Iran is the other) yet to score a goal. Ivory Coast would advance to the round of 16 for the first time with a victory, and Les Elephants have extra motivation after the Ivorian Football Federation announced it will double the players’ World Cup bonuses if they pull out a victory against the Greeks.
