World Cup Best Bets - June 22

Egypt took a point from Belgium in their opening match of the campaign as they bounced back from their 2-1 friendly loss to Brazil prior to the tournament. Like New Zealand, their draw in their opener means they have their fate in their own hands, and they will fancy their chances against an opponent that has really struggled for any momentum of late. Having conceded in each of their last two outings, I predict that Egypt will have to do things the hard way as they win the game without a clean sheet. 

Austria look in good touch right now after notching a fourth consecutive win. Friendly victories over Ghana, South Korea and Tunisia was followed by a battling 3-1 win over Jordan. With Argentina to come in their second game, Austria will more than likely have two bites at the cherry when it comes to getting out of the group. Beating Argentina would be a major statement, but they will have a shootout for second if they lose this one and Algeria beat Jordan. Stopping Lionel Messi has not been particularly easy of late, and I predict that Austria will be the latest side to see the Argentinian magician cast his spell.