Monday 16/06/2014, 18:00, World Cup Group G, Germany vs Portugal
Germany vs Portugal Betting Preview
Since losing to Italy at Euro 2012, Germany lost just two friendly games and had no problem in qualifying to World Cup 2014 as group winners. They will try to secure safe passage to the last 16 by also winning their group and the only team capable of stopping them in their tracks is Portugal. It is almost certain that the team winning this fixture will end up winning Group G, hence the pressure.
Germany vs Portugal Betting Odds
Germany 1.90, Draw 3.50, Portugal 4.00
Germany vs Portugal Betting Tips
German clubs were simply impressive in 2013 when two of them played the Champions League final and they did a decent job in 2014. Many of these players have won pretty much everything that could be won with their clubs, but are yet to taste glory with the national team.
They did a fine job at Euro 2012 but were unable to beat Italy and they won't settle for anything less than a semifinal in Brazil. Loew has a great roster and all the players that will travel to South America are entitled to expect a place in the starting formation. This will make the manager's mission more difficult, but the good news is that he has plenty of options.
All areas are rock solid, but the offensive line is the most impressive, with young strikers that are already competing for the title of top scorer at their clubs. Muller, Schurrle and Podolski are the designated strikers, but with midfielders such as Reus and Gotze, opponents will find it impossible to defend.
Portugal is not famous for its stellar defense, so it will have to take more chances upfront and hope that Cristiano Ronaldo will find the back of the net. This huge player is still without a trophy won with the national team and he is yet to play a final. Winning in Brazil appears to be unlikely, but surviving the group stage is not doubted by anyone.
Key Facts
- Germany plays better under pressure and has a better team overall, even though none of its players is as good as Cristiano Ronaldo.
- The two teams met 9 times and Germany won 5 games, including the most recent 3.
Germany vs Portugal Betting Odds Prediction
A draw tonight wouldn't be regarded as a setback for either team, but Germany is not going to settle for a draw that could jeopardize their chances of winning Group G. It is very important for them not to lock horns with Brazil, Spain or Argentina in the next round, so they will be pushing for a straight win over Portugal. This is also a great way to test players and will help Loew decide whom to use when things get serious. Bookies are careful with the odds they offer and 1.90 is not phenomenal value, but good enough to warrant the risk.
Bet: Germany @ 1.90 with Pinnacle Sports
