World Cup Monday Betting Preview Pt 1

Anybody who would sub off an in-form Van Persie, leave on Wesley Sneijder (who had done nothing up to that point) and bring on Klaas Jan Huntelaar only to see Sneijder score moments later from a pass by Huntelaar must feel pretty good about themselves at that point. The laser beam shot from Sneijder broke the hearts of Mexican fans everywhere and also left their keeper Ochoa rooted to the spot. 

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While many are still commenting on Arjen Robben’s embellished fall in the box to win the late penalty, close examination does reveal clear contact from Rafa Marquez and, though the Dutchman’s plunge was certainly theatrical, it was a foul inside the box. There is every chance that the much clearer penalty in the first half that was not awarded weighed heavily on the referees mind. 

The next match featured upstart sensations Costa Rica taking on Greece - a team not known for their ability to produce magical moments of flair-based football - but they are certainly well known for their ability to grind out matches and get results in unfavourable conditions. 

While the Central American nation is only making its first ever World Cup appearance, they were able to nullify Greece with a 10 man unit that was able to triumph on penalties and secure a magical result which will see them progress through to the quarter finals of the tournament. 

France take on Nigeria in the opening match on Monday while Germany and Algeria face off in the second one - both have very clear favourites that look to have every chance of getting the better of their opponents.