Argentina vs Netherlands

by Ryan Kramer 

Match Facts

Time: Wednesday July 9th @ 1:00 PM Pacific
Location: Arena Corinthians, Sao Paulo, Brazil
Weather: 64° F and rain
Radio: ESPN Radio
TV: ESPN/Univision
Referee: Cuneyt Cakir (Turkey)
Spread(90min): Argentina PICK (-150)/Netherlands PICK (+125)
MoneyLine(90min): Argentina +135/Netherlands +215/Draw +225
Total(90min): 2.5(-125/+105)
To Advance: Argentina -155 / Netherlands +130

Storyline

Argentina and Messi is the story here. Can the man who has won almost every possible award  a footballer can win finish off his trophy case with a World Cup victory and a pair of golden boots. Sure the latter is less important especially to the humble Messi but hard to see the boots not being part of the equation if they do get to play in 2 more games.
For a squad that didn’t garner a lot of pre tournament hype they exploded onto the scene with a 5-1 route of Spain. The storyline every since is can Arjen Robben and Robin van Persie continue to fuel the Dutch machine.
Much has been made by the media about how important Messi is to his team, while is this a point I wish to argue against I would say that Robin is as valuable to Holland. Both players create endless space for their teammates when they pinch inside and yet both players manage to generate exciting moment after exciting moment having to often deal with double and triple teams. It very well could come down to which individual elevates his team the most.

Projected Lineups

Holland (Possible, 5-3-2): Cillesen; Kuyt, De Vrij, Vlaar, Indi, Depay; Wijnaldum, Sneijder, Blind; Robben, Van Persie.

Prediction

Billi’s take on the remainder of the World Cup

I’m picking a Germany vs Argentina final at 13/5. I can’t see a Europe vs Europe final in South America. If you want more money take a forecast at 6/1 for Argentina to beat Germany in the final. An Argentina win should secure Messi both the Golden boot and player of the tournament, proving Messi can add either 2 goals and 2 assists or just 3 goals. In addition to these bets, my main bet for the next is once again an under-under parlay. I’ve hit parlay winners on the unders through the last 2 rounds (3 fold and 2 fold last round), so stick with that, as this game will be super tight, with the biggest game in the world looming for the victors. If you don’t fancy Argentina, back Rodriguez to your winner parlays, as he’s certain to win if Messi doesn’t. Rodriguez and Germany in a double would be 9/2.
Billi’s Pick 
Play the under in what will be a very tight game. Also Argentina to Advance -155.
Score: Argentina 1 – Holland 1 (Argentina wins in extra time 2-1)
Ryan’s Pick
Argentina to advance -155…With The host nation eliminated Argentina is that much closer to pulling off the ultimate…Winning the World Cup in Brazil
Score: Argentina 1 – Holland 0
Sean’s Pick
Argentina to advance -155. One South American team is bound to make it to the finals. Argentina to qualify
Score: Argentina 1 – Holland 1 (Argentina wins in extra time 2-1)