9th Jun 2014 | World Cup
Group H Betting Preview
Belgium are many people's outside tip for the trophy but arguably they are just as likely to under-achieve. Capello will make the Russians tough to beat while Algeria may prove to be a surprise package.
Belgium arrive for a World Cup with big expectations for the first time in their recent history and it’s not hard to see why. Qualification was achieved at a canter and half the squad would be automatic starting eleven picks for most sides in Brazil.
The problems have been coming though and you start to wonder if circumstances are destined to go against Marc Wilmots’ boys. First Christian Benteke was ruled out, then results became more inconsistent and now Romelu Lukaku has picked up a knock. Could it all go spectacularly wrong and see Belgium eliminated in round one at 5/1 with BetVictor?
The competition is stronger than perhaps it looks at first glance. Russia won’t let many goals in under Fabio Capello and they are 5/2 (Ladbrokes) to win the group.
South Korea are 8/1 (Boylesports) in the same market; they are inconsistent but have beaten Switzerland and Greece in friendlies since last November. A recent defeat to Tunisia will have dampened expectations though.
But outsiders Algeria may prove to be distinctly lively at best odds of 25/1 (StanJames) to win the group. Four straight victories and a run of one loss in 13 has given the Arab nation confidence which could at least carry them into the second round at 9/2 with Boylesports.
Odds correct at time of publishing: 23:17 9th Jun, 2014 but subject to change
