Costa Rica vs Greece Prediction – June 29
A pair of sides that has never made it to the World Cup quarterfinals will do battle in Brazil on Sunday afternoon, as a Cinderella Costa Rican side takes on Greece and veteran midfielders Giorgios Karagounis and Kostas Katsouranis, who are looking to write their own fairytale story. [ad-1519080]
Round of 16 Gambling Predictions
Costa Rica v Greece
Sunday, June 29, 2014
1 PM EST
Arena Pernambuco, Recife
ESPN
Odds: Costa Rica +140 / Greece +200 / Draw +200
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After battling its way to the top of a tough group stage, which included former champions Uruguay, Italy and England, the Costa Ricans will now square off against their lowest-ranked opposition so far.
Greece entered this year’s World Cup with a No. 12 FIFA ranking, and will be no pushover as it tries to duplicate it’s surprising 2004 European Championship.
Cost Rica made it the knockout rounds with a pair of shockers, drubbing 2010 semifinalist Uruguay 3-1, then shutting out 2006 winner Italy 1-0.
The Costa Ricans finished up group play with a nil-nil draw with England, and now haven’t conceded a goal at the World Cup since the 24th minute of its opening game.
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However, they will now face a former European champion, which appears ready accept the challenge of their match at Recife’s Arena Pernambuco.
Touted as one of the tournament’s better defensive sides, Greece shocked the football world by allowing three goals to Colombia to start World Cup play.
However, after regrouping to post a 0-0 draw versus Japan, the Greeks once again surprised, scoring twice to beat the Ivory Coast 2-1, in their last group game to move on.
Still, this Greece side prides itself on defensive toughness and a more calculated approach. So, the tactics should be the same, which will be to stay tight on defense to contain Costa Rica’s dangerous attack, fueled by forwards Joel Campbell and Bryan Ruiz.
The pair have helped their country progress from the group stage for just the second time and first since 1990. Now they will be under a heavy burden to keep this year’s World Cup dream alive.
Campbell has been a surprise. The Arsenal striker, could play against up to four of his Athens club teammates this weekend, which may be to his advantage.
Nevertheless, Greece coach Fernando Santos is aware of Campbell’s presence and will mark him well with his club mate, midfielder Andreas Samaris.
World Cup – Round of 16 Prediction – Greece
While Costa Rica has been hot from the start, Greece has the goods to get it done, especially on defense.
I expect this one to get off to a quick 1-1 start in the first 45, with Greece netting the game winner in the second half and holding on to a 2-1 win.
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