South Africa, the host nation of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, look to do the unthinkable and win a World Cup for the people of South Africa. World Cup oddsmakers at BODOG.com don’t think they’ll go far as South Africa are listed at 150/1 odds underdogs to win FIFA World Cup 2010. Be sure to get your FIFA World Cup 2010 Predictions in at BODOG.com. Here is the FIFA World Cup 2010 Odds Preview: South Africa.
FIFA World Cup fever has taken a firm grip and a once skeptical South African public has faith in their team to deliver the dream of at least a last-16 place finish, if not better. The host nation will be led by Brazilian Coach Carlos Alberto Parreira, who chose a FIFA World Cup team capable of making the host nation proud at the tournament. Coach Parreira led USA 94 to victory and has his eye set on getting another Cup Title. South Africa recently defeated Denmark 1-0 and extended an unbeaten eight-month run to 12 matches. "We respect everyone, but we fear nobody, “ Parreira said. “If you had asked me five months ago if we were ready, I would have told you that 'no, we have a long way to go'. But today, I'm happy with the progress, we are up there, we are ready for the task that awaits us. We still have time to work on one or two things, but overall, I’m happy." Parreira has named 19 home-based players in his 30-man preliminary squad and 11 players who ply their trade overseas. Their most well-known name is probably Everton's talented midfielder Steven Pienaar. All hopes rest on the star man, although Panathinaikos man Bryce Moon could well shine. Their squad will be hoping their all-time top score Benni McCarthy can regain his fitness. The experienced front-man has played very little football since his move to West Ham. Fulham's Kagisho Dikgacoi and Portsmouth's Aaron Mokoena have been in and out of their club sides all season, and both will be hoping to get over their respective cup final disappointments in time for the opening game.
There is no doubt South Africa has improved as a footballing nation, but many locals see little to zero chance of progressing out of Group A. They will open the tournament to a fanfare of noise on June 11 against Mexico, and will also face Uruguay and France.
Point-Spreads.com FIFA World Cup 2010 Odds Preview: South Africa
The Bottom Line: A host nation can go far with the spirits of their people behind them. Be sure to get your FIFA World Cup 2010 Odds Preview: South Africa in early at BODOG.com and recieve a 10% sign-up bonus on your initial deposit!
