World Cup / Andy Morris / 04 June 2010 / Leave a comment Bet Now View Market

Andy Morris's ongoing series on each day's games of the 2010 World Cup.

Algeria take on Slovenia in the second game in Group C, and unsurprisingly betting remains wide open on two teams expected to finish third and fourth in the group.

With most of the attention switched elsewhere, there will be an opportunity to find value attached to this game.

As a result, both teams are reasonably priced, with Slovenia slight favourites at (2.24) and Algeria at (3.35). Even the draw remains a well priced option at (3.35).

This could prove to be one of the closest games in the group stages as there is little on paper to separate the teams, both of which are expected to play minor roles behind England and the USA - the Correct Score market reflects this, with Slovenia slightly favoured.

A low scoring game is widely predicted, with a Slovenia 1-0 win (7.4) or Algeria 1-0 win (8.8) being good value.

In other markets - Under 1.5 Goals (2.7) appears to be a solid prediction.

In the highly competitive Group D, Germany (1.56) are strong favourites against Australia (7.4) The Aussies, who successfully negotiated the group stages in 2006, will prove solid competition again.

Germany are value at 1-0 (7) and 2-0 (7.8) with 3-0 (13.5) remaining a viable option. Other German wins might be considered, with 2-1 (9.6) available if the Australians can find the net.

With an Australian win in all likelihood a stretch too far, preference can be given to a draw, with the pick being 1-1 (9).

Finally, Serbia take on Ghana in Group D. Both sides will be looking to avoid defeat with the possibility of a qualification place available, behind likely group winners Germany. In light of this, a draw should certainly be considered (3.35), whilst slight preference in the win market is given to Serbia (2.2).

Serbia look to have better overall chances of progression, leaving them favourites here, and Ghana's recent showing, particularly in defence, against the Netherlands highlighted some weakness in succumbing to a heavy loss.

One area of attention might be in goal, with Richard Kingson, who for the most part looked powerless to prevent the Dutch onslaught, giving away a second-half penalty by bringing down Van der Vaart.

Ghana have kept only one clean sheet in their last four games, so it will be of little surprise if they don't improve that record here.

Over 2.5 Goals (2.54) offers value on this basis, and backers should take note of the value on offer for the various Correct Score markets - preference going for Serbia 2-1 (11).