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Brazil comes into Sunday's game against the Ivory Coast with 5/1 (+500) odds of winning the 2010 FIFA World Cup at Sportsbook.com (see website here).
Argentina, which has been red hot in their first two games, was now mad the favorite to win this year's World Cup. Argentina's odds were set at +450 and would pay out US$45 for every US$10 bet.
Brazil was getting nearly 85 percent of the backing from bettors on their game against the Ivory Coast where they were a -166 favorite. The Ivory Coast, meanwhile, would pay out US$50 for every US$10 bet.
Brazil struggled more than expected with North Korea, at 105 the lowest-ranked nation in the 32-team field. The Brazilians are No. 1.
"We gained confidence with the first victory and we need another one now to guarantee a place in the next round," Brazil striker Nilmar said. "We can do it in advance, so we need to try to go for it."
Ivory Coast is considered the strongest African team in the first World Cup staged on that continent, and star striker Didier Drogba could start after playing as a late sub in a 0-0 draw with Portugal. Drogba broke his right arm in a warmup match and wore a FIFA-approved cast during the Portugal game.
"Every player feels very, very well and we've got confidence in ourselves," Ivorian defender Emmanuel Eboue said. "If Drogba plays, it will be very great for us."
Both sides expect an entertaining, open game.
"Ivory Coast will come out playing more offensively and that should give us some openings," Brazil goalkeeper Julio Cesar said. "It's harder for us if a team plays only thinking about defending and not about attacking."
Argentina is up 6 points, having won their first two games in convincing fashion. The South American powerhouse faces off against Greece on Tuesday.
The Greeks have only a slim chance of qualification despite a 2-1 victory over Nigeria. Their goal difference is weighed down by their opening 2-0 loss to South Korea.
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Alistair Prescott, Gambling911.com
