African sides the way to go when backing World Cup qualifiers
Published:
Despite not being heavily tipped before the tournament started there are four African teams now on the brink of the knock-out stages after some shock results for Algeria, Ghana and Nigeria.
Algeria became the continent’s first representatives to hit four goals in one game in their 4-2 victory over Korea Republic, Nigeria sent Bosnia packing with a Peter Odemwingie-inspired 1-0 win and Ghana put in a much-improved display to frustrate Germany in their 2-2 draw.
As such, the trio – along with Ivory Coast, are all now well placed to reach the second round of the biggest competition in world sport.
And, with Ladbrokes returning £164.57 from a £10 stake if all four go through now is the time to get behind the African contenders.
Ivory Coast to Qualify @ 1/3
Despite the 2-1 loss to Colombia bringing them back to earth, after their opening victory over Japan by the same score line, Les Elephants look well-placed to qualify with matters in their own hands.
A win against Greece will guarantee safe passage but a draw would also be enough if Japan, as expected, are beaten by Los Cafeteros.
Nigeria to Qualify @ 1/7
After bringing the World Cup vibe – and match goal average – down with their drab 0-0 draw with Iran Nigeria find themselves on the brink of going through thanks to that unexpected 1-0 win over Bosnia.
Stephen Keshi’s side are unlikely to beat Argentina in their final group game but that result will be enough unless Bosnia completely implode and go down by more than two to Iran.
Ghana to Qualify @ 5/1
The Black Stars are the main underdogs in this bet but after giving Germany a fright write them off at your peril.
A repeat of that performance could well be enough to see off a Portugal side that has failed to impress and three points will surely put them through if Germany can do what’s expected and beat Team USA.
Algeria to Qualify @ 4/5
After whipping Korea Republic qualification is very much in Algeria’s own hands.
A win over Fabio Capello’s sorry Russian outfit would eradicate all doubt but even a draw would be enough providing Korea can’t perform a miracle and beat Belgium by four!
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.
Fancy a flutter? Sign up today to claim up to £100 in free bets.
