Well, That Was Unexpected...

The first round of World Cup matches has produced a number of upsets already. Argentina drawing with Iceland, Germany losing to Mexico and of course, Brazil not being able to beat Switzerland. Is this a minor blip or a sign that the team's overrated and is going to disappoint.

Brazil

Brazil finished top in the South America world cup qualification tables. In 18 matches played, they scored 41 goals and only let in 11. They're playing well as a team, although they do rely on the star power of Neymar, Gabriel Jesus and Coutinho. I think they have a decent shot at the World Cup and wouldn't call them overrated.

Argentina

Argentina are always one of the names tipped to win the World Cup before kick-off but in recent memory, they've been nothing but a disappointment. They over-achieved in reaching the finals the last time around and it shows. In World Cup qualifying, they only scored 19 goals and conceded 16 in 18 matches. Hardly the offense and defense of a potential World Cup winner.

Germany

Germany had a pretty easy qualification group and it proved to be no problem for them, qualifying in style with 10 wins out of 10. They aren't the well-oiled machine they were four years ago and while they were unlucky to not win or snatch a draw against Mexico, their recent friendly results have left a lot to be desired.

They barely beat Saudi Arabia 2-1 and lost to both Austria and Brazil in the last 6 months. Leaving a threat like Sane behind might prove to be one of the worst decisions of Loew's tenure. Especially if they're unable to find the back of the net despite dominating.

Betting

All in all, betting on this world cup has been tough so far. Was talking to some of the local punters here and most seem to have lost money in the first round. I hope they do make up for it in the subsequent rounds once we see which teams have substance and which ones are pretenders.

I think Spain, after they sacked their coach and Uruguay are going to disappoint us as well. Let's see.