Monday 22/06/2014, 00:00, World Cup Group G, United States vs Portugal

United States vs Portugal Betting Preview

Portugal is being caught between a rock and a hard place at the World Cup 2014, because they face a unique predicament in the group stage. On one hand, they need to do everything in their power to finish first, so that they avoid a difficult match in the last 16 against Belgium. On the other, it is very risky to push key players every match especially with Cristiano Ronaldo still not 100% recuperated after his tendinitis. Victory over United States is definitely manageable, but it could come at a price.

United States vs Portugal Betting Odds

At Bet365

United States 5.50, Draw 3.50, Portugal 1.70

United States vs Portugal Betting Tips

The opening match is the most difficult one and unless Portugal wins against Germany, it will have few chances to finish ahead of the European rivals. A draw would keep their hopes alive but it will all come down to the result recorded at the end of the match against United States.

The Portuguese have the same problem they had at the last three world cups, with the midfield and defenses being far better than the backline. Having a bunch of experienced players defending the next definitely helps, but there is an obvious gap in quality between defenders and offensive players.

Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to receive most of the balls sent in the opponents' half and would probably have numerous opportunities to score. American defenders are not the best in the world, but with Klinsman at the helm, the United States can cause a lot of headaches. The top concern is that two or even three defenders will be assigned to Ronaldo and they will eventually wear him out, not to mention that Cristiano gets easily frustrated.

Without Landon Donovan on the pitch, the United States will have fewer options upfront and this will give them another reason to play defense against Portugal. The problem is that Americans don't settle for second best and finishing third in the group where only two teams advance to the next stage won't be enough, prompting them to take more chances.

Key Facts

• Portugal is not the team to depend on a single player, but if Cristiano Ronaldo doesn't play at 100%, the Europeans will get in trouble
• In three games played between the two teams the United States won twice, including a 3-2 victory over Portugal in 2002.

United States vs Portugal Betting Odds Prediction

The Americans will do everything in their power to prevent Portugal from winning, but will alone is not enough to stop a powerful formation in its tracks. Granted their defenses are shaky, these shortcomings will only become obvious in the elimination rounds when Portugal will play against top teams. At this stage it is safe to back them at full stakes to win, especially with the odds being as high as 1.70.

Bet: Portugal @ 1.70 with Bet365