Betting Picks

Sports betting offers excitement throughout the year, even in the summer months as hockey and basketball wind down.You can bet on MLB every day as baseball heads into the summer, while the NFL is just around the corner. However, for the next month the event that will capture the attention of the entire planet is the World Cup and of course, World Cup betting. The tournament gets started this week, as South Africa becomes the first country in Africa to host the quadrennial event.

One of the more exciting matches of the weekend takes place Saturday afternoon, as the upstart United States takes on powerhouse England.  Never have the Americans have such high expectations in soccer, and their first match will be no easy contest.  England is consistently ranked in the top ten in the world, and they have very high hopes this time around.

The Americans made big headlines last year in South Africa as they stunned Spain in the Confederations Cup to make it to the finals.  They faced Brazil, and managed a 2-0 half time lead.  However, the talented Brazilians mounted a quick and impressive comeback in the second half and beat the inexperienced U.S. squad 3-2.  Still, though, the Americans played impressively and are quite confident heading into South Africa.

England, meanwhile, clearly has the team, but chemistry and attitude are still concerns.  They have at teams underachieved and in a recent friendly, head coach Fabio Capello called out his team for poor play.  It is also rumored that the often contentious Wayne Rooney had choice words for the referee, raising questions about his temper.

Also, England lost their captain Rio Ferdinand to an injury in a friendly last week. Steven Gerrard will step up and assume the captaincy.  The U.S. meanwhile had a scare as well last week, as young star Jozy Altidore sprained his ankle in practice. However, Altidore appears ready to play in the first game this weekend.

England and the United States are in joined in Group C by Algeria and Slovenia. The Americans are expected to at least make it to the next while, though Algeria may be tough playing in their home continent.  England, meanwhile, are predicted by some experts to make it to the final four. Some even expect England to win the tournament outright.

Betting lines: England is favoured in the opening match for both the clubs and rightly so. They have the experience, and showcase one of the greatest soccer players in the world in Rooney. However, in the World Cup anything can happen in just one game.  As it is the first match, the teams may be both shaky and cautious. Weather may play a factor, while the U.S. has an advantage having played in South Africa last year in the Confederations Cup.  Look for the Americans to play with confidence and passion, particularly goalkeeper Tim Howard and forward Landon Donovan, as they surprise the English in the opening match to earn an important draw.