World Cup Betting Attracts Amateurs Too

March 22 - No other sporting event attracts so much attention as the World Cup, and this year's festival in South Africa is no exception.

Betting on the World Cup is hugely popular, and even those who don't usually wager money on sporting events are drawn into the excitement of this pastime.

According to William Hill, about R10 billion will be wagered in the United Kingdom during the World Cup. "It's the single biggest betting event for British bookmakers," said a spokesman for the group, Graham Sharpe.

Speaking about the attraction that the World Cup has for amateurs, Sharpe noted: "Those unfamiliar with football often become converts for that month - like non tennis fans become experts during Wimbledon."

There are currently three teams vying for the title of World Cup champion - Spain, Brazil and England. These teams have odds of around 6 to 1 or better, and are currently the favourites at bookies across the board.

Odds for other teams such as Argentina, France, Germany and Italy range from 5 to 1, to 17 to 1.

Knowing some facts will also go a long way in helping punters make the right choice about which team to back.

For example, it should be remembered that no team other than one from the European or South American continents have ever won the World Cup.

On the flip, side, no European team has ever won the World Cup when it has been played off their continent.

In addition, it should be noted that although "outsiders do not win World Cups" as advised by Sharpe, Italy went into the Germany 2006 World Cup with odds of 10 to 1 and went on to win the competition.

Whoever punters choose to back, one thing is for sure - the World Cup 2010 will be one of the most incredible sporting events ever experienced.

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