World Cup 2014: Uruguay to see off Ecuador in must-win clash
Published:As it is in Europe, this week sees the business end of the South American race for a place in next summer’s World Cup, with some vital matches around.
With the exception of the meeting between the already qualified Argentina and eliminated Peru, there is something on each of Friday’s games taking place on the continent where the tournament will be held next year, as five teams bid for the four remaining places in Brazil.
We’ve taken a look at all three meaningful matches, and put them into a treble that pays out at over 18/1.
Three games ago the Ecuadorians were seven points ahead of Uruguay and seemingly destined for an automatic qualification place, but now the teams are level heading into this meeting in Quito.
Uruguay enter the contest off the back of three straight wins – two of which were away from home – and with Luis Suarez in fine form since his Premier League return, the Liverpool man can inspire his country to win against a nation they haven’t lost to in nine meetings since the turn of the century.
Win against the side without a victory in four, and Uruguay will have their qualification destiny in their own hands ahead of a home clash with depleted Argentina on Tuesday.
It’s a winner-takes-all clash in Barranquilla, but a draw will be enough to earn Colombia their place at the finals.
Jose Pekerman’s side haven’t conceded a goal in the northern city in their last five matches there, and a point would also suit Chile ahead of home clash with off-form Ecuador on Tuesday providing the Ecuadorians don’t beat Uruguay.
The Venezuelans need a miracle to qualify for their first World Cup, but that miracle includes a win over an already eliminated Paraguay side that have lost seven of their last 10 away games.
Without a fixture on Tuesday, Venezuela need to win this last qualification match and hope that the loser of Ecuador v Uruguay also loses again next week, ensuring that they can sneak into fifth place and a play-off spot.
A £10 treble on the above selections pays £193.23
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date and time of publication
