25th Jun 2014 | World Cup
Algeria v Russia Tip: Underdogs Can Do It The Hard Way
The Desert Foxes became the first African team to ever score four goals in a World Cup game on Sunday and they deserve to progress.
Having tipped Algeria to qualify from Group H pre-tournament at best odds of 9/2, we now have the scenario we hoped for heading into the final round of matches. A draw would see the Greens into the last 16.
They face a Russian side who have flattered to deceive so far yet could still progress if they record the victory which the bookies anticipate. The problem Fabio Capello faces is that his side tends to start sluggishly and generally has an overly defensive mindset.
The same could not be said of the Desert Foxes. Algeria led at half-time against mighty Belgium and were 3-0 up at the break against South Korea. They let the match get away against the Group H favourites and even Korea scored a couple in the second half as that match ended 4-2.
What that tells me is that Algeria are a good bet to be leading at the break but they could be clinging on for dear life later on. If they trail at the interval, Russia will be forced to finally go on the offensive and that’s when I would expect them to dominate.
However, I think the spirit of the underdogs can just about prevail and I like the look of ‘Half-time: Algeria - Full-time: Draw’ at best odds of 17/1 with BetVictor.
Odds correct at time of publishing: 21:55 25th Jun, 2014 but subject to change
