Colombia vs Paraguay
With only two football games remaining in their World Cup qualifiers, both Colombia and Paraguay can’t afford to lose if they want to get one step closer to making it to Russia next year.
A draw, of course, would be a decent result; nonetheless, with Colombia not yet secured a spot and Paraguay three places behind the automatic qualifying places, only a win will do for these South American giants.
Football betting pundits have the home team comfortably winning this match, and at betting odds of 1X2 @ 1.39 as compared to Paraguay at a far-off 1X2 @ 7.00, it’s no wonder.
However, the Guaranies proved last month in their win over Chile that they can step up when it matters, and it’s not wrong to think they are capable of providing another inspiring performance to keep their dreams alive.
The problem for Paraguay, though, is they’ll be without Atlanta United star Miguel Almiron and Gremio striker Lucas Barrios, who are both out due to injury. With that said, manager Chiqui Arce will be forced to rely on Antonio Bareiro, Angel Romero and Oscar Romero to create chances and score goals.
Colombia, on the other hand, will be the usual tough opponents they are, especially with the call-ups of Villareal striker Carlos Bacca and Sampdoria forward Duvan Zapata.
The two join the likes of James Rodriguez and Radamel Falcao in an already stacked Los Cafeteros frontline.
Coach Jose Pekerman’s outfit haven’t lost in their last four qualifying fixtures, so there’s no doubt the momentum is on their side. Not to mention that Paraguay haven’t had a consistent run so far this year.
It shouldn’t also help the visitors that it’s been almost nine years since they last beat the hosts.
Judging by the quality and talent they have at their disposal, it’s easy to bet on Colombia any time of the day. Nevertheless, high-stake games often play out to be tight, and I expect the same thing to happen at Barranquilla.
I predict Colombia to come out on top, but given the handicap, Paraguay seem worth the look on +1.25 that pays at 1.93.
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Disclaimer: Odds are correct at time of publish.
