Sunday 15/06/2014, 22:00, World Cup Group E, Switzerland vs Ecuador
Switzerland vs Ecuador Preview
The European nations are expected to dominate Group E and France is widely regarded as favorite to advance to the next stage. Switzerland is the most likely runner-up and they can virtually solve the qualification problem by winning the opening game with Ecuador. The South Americans will give them a run for their money, as they know that a draw won't help too much and will simply complicate matters.
Switzerland vs Ecuador Betting Odds
Switzerland 2.40, Draw 3.00, Ecuador 3.30
Switzerland vs Ecuador Betting Tips
Switzerland will be facing France in the last match of Group E and if the 1998 champions have six points by then, a draw will be the most likely outcome. The two teams would gladly settle for such a result if it would see both of them through and this is a serious reason of concern for Ecuador.
The South Americans had an ambivalent qualifying campaign, with most of the points collected at home while their performance on the road was disappointing. The explanation is simple, as teams have a hard time adjusting to the altitude and pressure in Quito, hence they frequently drop points here.
The Swiss are going to take advantage of the situation and pressure Ecuador from the first minute, knowing that their defenses will sooner or later falter. Their own qualifying campaign was impressive and they won a fairly difficult group, so morale and confidence are at high levels ahead of this fixture.
Hitzfeld is exactly the coach they needed ahead of the World Cup and his conservative 4-4-2 starting formation with Seferovic and Derdiyok can cause major upsets in Brazil. Overall, Switzerland will be betting on young players at the world cup and they have both the stamina and motivation to play at the highest level for 90 minutes.
Key Facts
- Ecuador is great at home but subpar on the road and they won't have home pitch advantage at the World Cup.
- This is the first time that the two teams meet, but Ecuador has a terrible record against European teams.
Switzerland vs Ecuador Odds Prediction
The opening games are usually dull and few goals are scored as no team is willing to take chances, but this one will be different. Switzerland will be seeking a win early so that they stay within striking distance of France and Ecuador looks like a manageable opponent. The odds are terrific and those who don't mind taking slight chances by backing the Europeans to win outright will enjoy odds of 2.40.
Bet: Switzerland @ 2.40 with Pinnacle Sports
