One round of matches is over in the FIFA Club World Cup, and today Groups A and B begin their second contests of group stage. We've got four matches on the slate, so let's get into our best bets for today!
Group A is wide open after all four teams played to scoreless draws in their first outing. Inter Miami and FC Porto battle in what would've likely decided the top spot in the group, however each team is tied up with one point at the moment. Al Ahly and Palmeiras kick off our day at noon eastern, and three points would put them in a great position.
I'll be staying off the first match today, as I expect Palmeiras to dominate, leaning with them on the spread.
As for Group B, our UCL Champions, Paris Saint-Germain are very much in control. They beat Atlético Madrid 4-0 in their first match, and now battle Botafogo who also won their first contest. Botafogo beat the Seattle Sounders 2-1 on Sunday to earn three points. PSG is a heavy favorite once again, but I'll be staying off. I lean over 3 if anything in that matchup, as both sqauds should play very aggressive.
We are taking Inter Miami or Draw on the double chance as they look to bounce back. They simply couldn't break through against Al Ahly, while FC Porto faced an attack all game long. Porto's back-up keeper was the standout player after starting for injured Diego Costa, and he surely stepped up. However, it will be tough to duplicate that performance against an incredibly good offense.
Both teams know this group is up for grabs. Three points is crucial, so I expect Javier Mascherano to start all of his studs and let Messi and Luis Suarez take over when the team needs it. Porto allowed five shots on target and 17 total attempts in their first match, while also conceding four corner kicks. Inter Miami will surely take advantage of a defense that is forced to contain, rather than try to plan out their own attacks.
Give me Inter Miami to come alive in Mercedes-Benz Stadium this afternoon.
Get in, get out. Both teams in Group B are coming off a loss, one much more embarrassing than the other. Atlético Madrid were shutout 4-0 by PSG in their opening match, while the Sounders netted a late one against Botafogo to only lose 2-1. If either of these teams wants to advance, they need a win today.
I expect Atlético Madrid to be very aggressive, however, I trust the Sounders defense to hold their own for the first half. They know how outmatched they are, and to me, this translates to a conservative first 45 minutes. Now, Atlético will be without Clément Lenglet, who was sent off in the 78′ minute for his second yellow card against PSG. They have the defenders to step up in his place, but it may be a reason to be slightly more cautious early in this match.
For you real sickos, you can wager on the Halftime/Full Time market and bet Draw/Atlético for (+340). In order for this bet to win, you need a draw at halftime, AND Atlético to win it in 90 minutes, which is why the price is the price. Or you can just sweat out the first half with us for +155.
Nate has been a recreational sports bettor for about 5 years. In that time, he has grown to love the pursuit of winners and sticking it to The Man. Nate loves data and uses his understanding of numbers to help him be a more profitable sports gambler, however he will be the first to tell you this game is about more than just stats.
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