Argentina are leading the way in the Copa America 2011 betting, but the hosts are not the best bet of the tournament.
It’s easy to assume that the Copa America will be a two horse race between Brazil and Argentina, and it just might. But South American football is enjoying a rich period and there are plenty of others to consider in the Copa America 2011 betting.
Firstly, remember that there were four South American teams in the quarter-finals of the 2010 World Cup, and it was Uruguay, not Argentina or Brazil, that progressed the furthest. Secondly, consider that while Brazil topped the South American World Cup qualifying group they did so by juts one point from Chile and Paraguay, and Argentina only just snuck into the World Cup by finishing fourth. Uruguay finished fifth and qualified for the finals by virtue of a two-legged play-off victory over Costa Rica.
However, the most important point to consider is that not all – in fact not many – of the teams competing at the Copa America are there with winning the competition as their primary objective.
The majority of South American managers, Mano Menezes (Brazil) and Sergio Batista (Argentina) included, have openly insinuated that their priorities lie in the upcoming 2014 World Cup qualifiers – or the World Cup itself in the case of Brazil. Although the players sent out onto the pitch will be fully committed to winning each match the managers will certainly be tinkering with tactics and team selection throughout the tournament.
That is apart from the Uruguayans. Diego Forlan, Luis Suarez and co. are seen as a golden generation of Uruguayan football and following their relative success at the 2010 World Cup, this Copa America is thought to be the swansong for many of the squad’s elder statesmen.
So, whilst all the football betting news will talk about Brazil and Argentina, don’t forget about Uruguay at odds of 12/1. They are the side who are going into the tournament fully committed to winning the tournament and without one eye on the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. Also, no team has won more Copas than Uruguay.
Sport: Football
I think Uruguay are a good each-way bet but I can’t see them getting past Argentina or Brazil. Here’s hoping for a few shocks though. Chile and Colombia are the dark horses for me.
Wish I’d read this before the tournament!
Hi, I’ve been researching this topic for awhile and I must say the information is great. Thanks!