World Cup betting: Beware of Elephants

Las Vegas Review-Journal sports writers Adam Hill and David Schoen have been given $5,000 fantasy bankrolls to bet during the World Cup on either sides, totals or props. Below are their bets for today, with an explanation of their picks:

ADAM HILL, REVIEW-JOURNAL

Bankroll: $4,040

Friday: Lost $290

Today: Betting $500

Bet 1: $375 on Colombia (-.5, -125)

Comment: Sure, the absence of striker Radamel Falcao is going to be a problem throughout the tournament. But Colombia has had plenty of time since his knee injury to prepare for a World Cup run without him. Colombia should win this group, and three points in the first match will go a long way toward ensuring an opportunity to do just that. South American sides should be at an advantage over European sides, especially early in the tournament as teams get acclimated.

Bet 2: $125 on Ivory Coast (pick, -125)

Comment: This is a massive game, as these two teams are likely to battle it out for the second spot in the group behind Colombia. Japan is a technically sound side, but The Elephants might be the best team in Africa at the moment, and Didier Drogba will find a way to get his team through the group in what is almost assuredly his final World Cup. Yaya Toure should be good to go for Ivory Coast.

DAVID SCHOEN, REVIEW-JOURNAL

Bankroll: $4,725

Friday: Won $100

Today: Betting $510

Bet 1: $250 on Colombia-Greece Under 2 goals (-125)

Comment: The phrase “park the bus” was coined with teams such as Greece in mind. “Park the bus” roughly translates to the Greeks will play like a Big Ten basketball team and “park the bus” in front of its goal to prevent the Colombians from scoring. The style is plodding, methodical and hit-me-over-the-head-with-a-barstool boring. The draw (plus-230) is worth a look, too.

Bet 2: $260 on England-Italy Under 2 goals (-130)

Comment: This is a wager against the fairway bunker they’re passing off as a soccer field in Manaus. They can paint it green all they want, but it will have an effect on both teams. Plus, the Azzuri — that’s Italy — and the Three Lions — that’s England — won’t risk much in the opener.