Which teams have the better soccer betting odds of winning their respective groups? The Copa America Centenario features 16 teams instead of the traditional 12, and it’s safe to say that the “special” guests will not overstay their welcome, but that still leaves plenty of suspense as to who will make it through to the second round.
Group A. Colombia (+155), Costa Rica (+655), Paraguay (+805), and USA (+140). Right off the bat we have to teams from Concacaf in the same group. One was seeded as the tournament’s host, and the other is the winner of the 2014 Copa Centroamericana – which may or may not be an actual thing. If they were any justice, the two South American teams would go through – after all the Copa America is supposed to be a Conmebol competition – but fans who bet on soccer should not take the US for granted either.
Group B. Brazil (-300), Ecuador (+455), Haiti (+7050), Peru (+755). One of these things is not like the others. It’s hard to picture Brazil, even at its worst, not mowing down the competition in this group – though cannon fodder would be a more accurate term. However, given the mechanic of the tournament, at least one other team must qualify as well – and all soccer betting signs seem to point to Ecuador making the cut.
Group C. Jamaica (+1625), Mexico (+140), Uruguay (EV), Venezuela (+1025). Another group with two Concacaf members in it – although in this case it can be argued by people who bet on soccer that Mexico has truly earned its post in the Copa America through the years. This will be El Tri’s 10th appearance in the cup; in previously they have finished 3rd three times, and 2nd in two occasions. As in group A, one can see a North American and a South American going through – in this case Uruguay should be the latter.
Group D. Argentina (-165), Chile (+165), Panama (+2550), Bolivia (+3250). Argentina didn’t get off as easily as Brazil; they are pretty much being fed Panama – which, like Haiti, has never in a Copa America and which, like Haiti, probably should have never been in one – but they still have to battle it out with reigning champions Chile.
All things considered, the soccer betting favorites to win their groups are USA, Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina. Runner-ups would be Colombia, Ecuador, Uruguay, and Chile. Finally, we might designate Costa Rica, Peru, Venezuela, and Bolivia as potential wildcards. And of course Haiti and Panama will hopefully enjoy the trip, take many pictures, ask Lionel Messi for autographs, bring back souvenirs, and cherish the memories for the rest of their lives.