World Cup 2010: Paraguay v Spain – Quarter Final

International Football Tips

 

World Cup 2010
Paraguay v Spain – Quarter Final
Saturday 3rd July 2010 – 2030hrs
Saturday evening sees the last of the quarter final matches, but not least in terms of interest as another pairing of European and South American countries go head-to-head for the final spot in the semi finals.
Paraguay have comfortably exceeded all expectations in reaching the latter stages of the tournament, but as the cup progresses, it tends to sort out the wheat from the chaff – and Paraguay’s major flaw has been scoring goals. Gerardo Martino’s side have now gone 210 minutes without a goal, and coming up against one of the more attacking sides (potentially) I feel this may be one bridge too far for them.
History is also not on Paraguay’s side as they have only won two of their last 13 World Cup matches against European opposition – but their defence has been solid enough and perhaps if they can hold out and frustrate Spain long enough, then they could take them to extra time. A big IF though!
But there is hope and creativity will be provided mainly by Cristian Riveros, Premiership bound for Sunderland, who is the creative spark in midfield. Valdez, Santa Cruz and Barrios who have all been disappointing so far will be keen to get on the scoresheet, although they face formidable opposition in the form of Pique and Puyol.
Spain will almost certainly start with attacking striking pair Torres and Villa (or at least they should do!), although Fernando Lorente is staking his claim for a start.
Torres has been disappointing so far also, but it can only be a matter of time before he makes his mark – is this the match?
In my opinion, Spain definitely have the upper hand in midfield with the likes of Xavi, Iniesta, Busquet and Alonso, and I expect them to stamp their authority in the middle fairly quickly.
David Villa appears to be the key man here, the new signing for Barcelona has scored the bulk of Spain’s goals this time around, and is clear favourite for scoring – first @ 4.00 or anytime @ 1.90, both bets with bet365.
I think the creativity and guile of the Spanish midfield should win the day in this fixture, but it may take longer than expected as Paraguay may sit back and absorb the attacks. Patience is the key for Spain and if they can remain calm, they should create sufficient chances for Villa and Torres to capitalise.
Pick: Spain win @ 1.54 with Pinnacle Sports
Side bet: Spain to win to nil @ 2.26 with Betfair – an attractive option given Paraguay’s recent goal-scoring form.