Ala Hann Sport picks

Soccer City Stadium, Johannesburg

Friday July 2nd, 2010: 14:30 EST

Most years, summer sports entertainment is focused around MLB betting as America’s pastime dominates June and July.  This year, however, those who wish to bet on sport other than the norm, have an exciting change. World Cup betting takes charge as the globe’s most popular sport undertakes the most exciting competition.  Football’s championship is nearing the quarterfinals from South Africa, and you can follow all the action at the World Cup blog

The second match of the day features two teams that were not predicted by many to make it this far. Considered a weaker end of the bracket, Uruguay downed South Korea 2-1 and Ghana edged the United States 2-1 in extra time and move on to the quarterfinals.

With Ghana, the hopes of an entire continent rest.  Cameroon, Ivory Coast, Algeria, Nigeria, and hosts South Africa all failed to move on from the group stage, leaving Ghana as the lone African representative. They were underdogs going in against the U.S., but proved the superior team, taking advantage of weak Americand defense, conceding just one goal on a penalty to Landon Donovan.

Ghana has proven opportunistic and considerably lucky. They beat Serbia 1-0 in their opening match on a penalty after a handball near the goalkeeper gave the Black Stars the chance to go ahead late. Despite their second place finish, their performance against the underachieving Americans showed clearly they have the passion and talent to continue on.

Uruguay, meanwhile, have played convincing football under the radar of other big name squads. An 0-0 draw against France to open the tourney, was followed by a 3-1 victory over South Africa, and a 1-0 triumph over Mexico to win the group.

In their round of 16 match-up, they were just as powerful, with Luis Suarez notching both Uruguay goals, including a brilliant strike that curled just past the keeper that would be the game winner.  Goalkeeping has also proven exceptional for Uruguay, as they have conceded only two goals this tournament.

It stands to be that Uruguay’s biggest challenge will be the crowd and the noise.  South African fans and those who are neutral have joined the last African representative in hopes that a team from the home continent will make it to the semi-finals for the first time in FIFA World Cup history.

Betting lines:  Uruguay is favoured in the match as well they should be. They have proven to be strong offensively, getting production from the aforementioned Suarez, as well as star man Diego Forlan.  Despite the impressive run by the Black Stars of Ghana, there run will be over this weekend.  It shouldn’t take extra time to settle this one, Uruguay will strike first and hold on the to lead, winning 2-0 and sending home the last African team.