World Cup betting: African teams struggling
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: $5,340
Friday: Lost $100
Today: Betting $240
Bet 1: $240 on Bosnia-Herzegovina (-½, minus-120) over Nigeria
Comment: Bosnia-Herzegovina gave Argentina fits in its opening game. It will find the going a bit easier against a Nigeria side that isn’t in great form. African teams have struggled mightily in the tournament, and adding to Nigeria’s problems are injury concerns to several key players.
DAVID SCHOEN, REVIEW-JOURNAL
Bankroll: $4,565
Friday: Lost $350
Today: Betting $640
Bet 1: $360 on Bosnia-Herzegovina (-½, minus-120) over Nigeria
Comment: This play is more about fading Nigeria, which hasn’t won a World Cup match since 1998. African teams are 1-5-1 in the tournament, and Bosnia-Herzegovina has to be encouraged by its showing against Argentina in the opener. A victory by the Super Eagles would eliminate Bosnia-Herzegovina.
Bet 2: $280 on Germany (-½, minus-140) over Ghana, first half
Comment: The Germans have a history of stinkers in their second group match (see: 1994, 1998, 2002 and 2010), but this should be a wide-open match from the outset, which suits Die Mannschaft. Keep an eye on Ghana’s Kevin-Prince Boateng, who was born in Germany and is public enemy No. 1 there after accusing the Germans of lacking leadership.
