Neighbors and contenders for the 2010 FIFA World Cup crown, Spain will face Portugal, Tuesday June 29, in one of the most anticipated matches at this World Cup 2010. Ranked second and third in FIFA World Rankings, this is the first meeting at footballs biggest stage. World Cup oddsmakers at BODOG.com have Spain as EVEN moneyline favorites over Portugal (+285) with a DRAW at (+220). Be sure to get your Portugal vs Spain 2010 World Cup Predictions Round of 16 Odds in now at BODOG.com
Portugal started off slowly with a scoreless draw against Cote d’Ivoire; they pounded Korea DPR 7-0 and finished with a scoreless draw against Brazil to finish second in Group G. Portugal welcomes back midfield schemer Deco, although the versatile Ruben Amorim will be out. Cristiano Ronaldo has struck just once to date in South Africa despite claiming the Budweiser Man of the Match award in each of his side’s three matches. The Real Madrid forward needed a total of 17 shots to score his solitary goal, which came in the demolition of Korea DPR, though Ronaldo can count himself unfortunate to have been denied by the woodwork on two occasions already. It’s only a matter of time before Ronaldo hits his stride.
"We’re ready to take on anybody. We’ve already played in critical games during qualifying and now we have another all-or-nothing match at a World Cup. That’s why we’re ready to give everything we’ve got on the pitch with only one aim in mind: staying in the World Cup. Portugal’s best is still to come," Carlos Queiroz, Portugal coach.
Spain lost their opener 1-0 to Switzerland; they defeated Honduras 2-0 and closed out with a 2-1 win over Chile to finish first in Group H. Real Madrid boss Del Bosque Spain will be without key midfielder Xabi Alonso and defender Raul Albiol, due to suspension. The Spanish striker David Villa’s three-goal haul so far at South Africa 2010 has taken his tally at FIFA World Cups to six in total , making Barcelona’s new signing his country’s highest ever scorer in the competition. Will Fernando Torres finally get off the mark here at South Africa 2010? Torres has yet to score, but it’s not like he’s not getting chances.
"Portugal is a great team and they’re about more than just Cristiano Ronaldo. Yes it’s true that Cristiano is one of their best players, but we mustn’t forget that the Portuguese are the only team that still haven’t conceded a goal at this World Cup. That proves that they’re a solid unit and not just a collection of individuals. Their game is based around defensive solidity, pace and counter-attacking, as well as having very skilful players. I foresee a very difficult game, like they all will be for the rest of the competition. Only the best teams are left in it now," Vicente del Bosque, Spain coach.
Portugal vs Spain
When: Tuesday, June 29- 2:30 PM ET
Line: BODOG.com
Pick: Portugal +285
Point-Spreads.com Portugal vs Spain 2010 World Cup Predictions Round of 16 Odds
The Bottom Line: Portugal will play their best game where they will advance. Be sure to get your Portugal vs Spain 2010 World Cup Predictions Round of 16 Odds in now at BODOG.com and receive a 10% deposit bonus.
