Semi Final: Uruguay vs Holland

Uruguay are in their first semi final in 40 years. They may feel that this is their destiny due to the fortunate nature of their triumph in the quarter final against Ghana. With the game locked at 1-1 in the final seconds of normal time, Luis Suarez desperately handled the ball on the line, incurring a red card and giving a penalty to Ghana. Astonishingly, Asamoah Gyan hit the crossbar with the spot kick. In the ensuing shootout, goalkeeper Fernando Muslera was the hero saving twice, ensuring that Uruguay stay in with a chance of an unlikely World Cup win.

Holland cruised through their first four matches and it seemed that Brazil would be a step too far for them. They were outclassed for about 55 minutes and looked certain to exit. Suddenly, Julio Cesar flapped at a hopeful Wesley Sneijder cross into the box and the ball floated into the net. Brazil then amazingly fell to pieces allowing Sneijder to poach a winning goal. In the last half hour, Holland displayed a level of skill, patience, determination and courage that previous Dutch sides have lacked in this tournament.

This is why they are $1.66 to win in normal time. They have had an easy run in the competition until the last round and look like a side with plenty of energy. Uruguay on the other hand, didn’t look good against South Korea and were blessed to get past Ghana. They seem like a tired side relying on the leadership of the superb Diego Forlan and look to be running on sheer adrenaline. This is why they are $7 to produce a massive upset. As wonderful as the Uruguayan journey has been, their tank seems empty and Holland should exploit this exhaustion for what may prove to be a comfortable win.