World Cup 2010: Chile v Switzerland – Group H

International Football Tips

 

World Cup 2010
Chile (18th) v Switzerland (24th)
Tuesday 22nd June 2010 – 1500hrs
Next up, I turn my attention to Group H as surprise leaders Switzerland take on joint group leaders Chile in what could be a verrry interesting match indeed.
Not that I predict plenty of goals, but more the dynamics behind the situation that both sides find themselves in – the Swiss providing the shock of the tournament so far by beating Spain 1-0 in their opener, while Chile overpowered Honduras in their opening match. The Swiss may settle for a draw here, with four points from two matches with Honduras left to play, they would have bitten your hand off before the start of the tournament!
Both sides seem to be evenly matched as well, not only because they are level on points but are closely situated in the FIFA rankings.
When you compare the two sides’ respective previous matches, both were fortunate to score and secure three points as the Swiss clung on for dear life, repelling wave after wave of Spanish attacks for their narrow victory. Chile also struggled and did just enough to get the points, but both teams lacked the punch up front and in my opinion the draw looks the most likely result here.
With Spain likely to beat Honduras in their next match (their players probably still smarting from having their butts kicked in no uncertain terms following the loss to Switzerland), the respective knock-out destiny’s for both Chile and Switzerland seem to be in their own hands; the Swiss will fancy beating Honduras, while Chile would only need a draw against Spain to knock them out of the tournament, whilst progressing themselves to the next stage.
It’s too early for team news I’m afraid, rather this preview is based on my immediate gut-feel of when I saw this fixture was up next and the betting options on offer.
I’m also not going to suggest any conspiracy theories here either, but I’ll let you make your own mind up – but it will be interesting to see how both sides approach this match…
Pick: Draw @ 3.10 with Pinnacle Sports