FIFA World Cup Bet Lines: Group D

In the latest in a series, ScoresOddsPicks Shea Matthews previews the FIFA World Cup 2010.

Like Group G, Group D in the 2010 World Cup will be closely watched, but also avoided by many betting sharps because it’s such a close one to call. The Germans still lead the way, but the playing field has been levelled a bit recently.

Germany (-125)

The Germans are a consistent force in the World Cup, as they always seem to save their best soccer for international play. It’s thus no surprise to see them favored at every sportsbook to win Group D. That said, this German team won’t have a walk. Losing captain Michael Ballack to injury is a huge blow—especially to Germany’s overall championship chances. Still, this team has enough talent and balance left over to remain the class of Group D.

Serbia (+275)

Watch out. We already knew Serbia was a popular sleeper and very likely to challenge Ghana for the second berth into the round of 16. Now, with both Germany and Ghana battling major injuries, Serbia’s odds have climbed significantly. In Nikola Zigic, Dejan Stankovic, and Nemanja Vidic, Serbia has a dynamic core and should score plenty.

Ghana (+500)

A lot can change in one week. Ghana was expected by many bettors to become a Cinderella team in South Africa, but my betting advice is to rethink Ghana’s odds. First off, star midfielder Michael Essien won’t be recovered sufficiently from his knee injury in time for the tournament. In addition to that blow, key scorer Kevin Prince-Boateng was the man who injured Germany’s Michael Ballack on a questionable tackle. That means Germany is likely to give Ghana a spirited game instead of looking past them.

Australia (+900)

They’re not as big of long shot as teams like New Zealand or Honduras, but Australia’s chances are considered limited in Group D. They play decent enough defense, but I’m not sure they have the depth or offensive flair to penetrate the other tough defenses in this group.

Free pick: Germany and Serbia. The Germans still have enough depth to survive, Serbia is really on the rise and Ghana probably can’t go very far without Essien. The greater question now: does Serbia have a shot to win this group altogether?