Online betting players will be watching an intriguing matchup in the World Cup round of 16 on Tuesday morning, when Japan and Paraguay will go head to head. These two teams play a lot alike, so it’s going to take a moment of magic, and Japan has just the player to create it.
What: World Cup Betting
When: Tuesday, June 29th, 10:00 AM ET
Where: Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Pretoria
Key Stats: Paraguay has won two and drawn three of their six matches against Japan
The Storyline
Two of the most interesting darkhorses left in the World Cup will meet, and the Japanese put together a sterling display in their 3-1 win over Denmark to book their place in the second round. Paraguay was held to a 0-0 draw against New Zealand in their final group match. Paraguay has two wins and three draws in six meetings with the Japanese.
Who Has The Pick On Offense: Japan Paraguay Betting
Keisuke Honda has driven the Japanese attack in South Africa, scoring two of their four goals and setting up another. He took control of the Denmark match from midfield, and he certainly will get attention from Europe’s biggest clubs when the World Cup is over. The Samurai Blue are excellent from set pieces, with Honda and Yushito Endo always a threat.
La Albirroja struggled against New Zealand, but it’s tough to go forward when your opponent has 10 players behind the ball. Enrique Vera and Roque Santa Cruz are developing a good understanding, but the Paraguayans need Santa Cruz in particular to be raring to go for this match.
Pick: Japan
Who Has The Pick In Defense: Japan Paraguay Betting
The Japanese defense is well disciplined and everyone knows their roles. They only looked out of their element when they faced the Netherlands, and even then, they held the Dutch to a single goal. Keeper Eiji Kawashima had a great game against the Dutch, and managed to stop a penalty, but the Danes scored on the rebound.
Paraguay’s defense has been immense so far, allowing just one goal in their opening match against the Italians. They’re good at keeping their opponents on the perimeter and forcing long-range shots, and if you’re going to make them, more power to you. Keeper Justo Villar marshals a tight unit.
Pick: Paraguay
Notable Injuries – Japan Paraguay Betting
Neither team is reporting any serious injuries coming out of their group-stage finales.
Pick: Draw
Totals – Japan Paraguay Betting
Both teams are very similar in that they’re primarily counterattacking teams, but they can go at you when they get the urge. These types of teams usually clash, so don’t expect a wide-open affair here.
Pick: Under 2
Japan Paraguay Sports betting & Outlook
The soccer betting odds for this showdown will be very close, and the Paraguayans have taken two and drawn three of their six meetings with Japan, outscoring them 7-4. This match will come down to who makes the first mistake, and we think Japan has the tools to capitalize. Honda has been one of the best players in the tournament, and he only needs a half-chance to make something happen. In what should be a scrappy game, look for the Blue Samurai in your sports betting book.
Bet World Cup: Japan