Another big day of Copa América 2024 action kicks off on Friday as tournament darlings Colombia take on Costa Rica at 6 PM ET before Brazil battles with Paraguay at 9 PM ET.
A shocking loss by the US put a dent in our picks yesterday, but at least both our Uruguay vs. Bolivia picks hit. Let's explore all the odds for today's matches and try for another sweep.
Colombia vs. Costa Rica Copa América Odds
Odds as of June 28
Michel Anderson's Pick: Both Teams To Score – No (-166)
Costa Rica will park the bus and try to soak up everything the Colombians throw at them. Just like they did to Brazil in that nil-nil draw on Matchday 1. Another nil-nil draw would be ideal for Costa Rica. Getting two points from games against Brazil and Colombia would be massive. They will have next to zero scoring intent or opportunities in this game. If any scoring happens it will be from the Colombian side of the field only.
Nick Holz's Pick: Colombia Asian Handicap -1.5 (-103)
Colombia has scored 11 goals in their past three games and hasn't been held scoreless since a 0-0 draw with Ecuador last November. While Costa Rica's organized defense held Brazil off the scoresheet, I expect a dangerous Colombian attack to run rampant tonight.
James Rodriguez summons his absolute best in a Colombia jersey, while Luis Diaz has looked fantastic. Bet on Colombia to win this by at least one goal, as the Asian Handicap lessens your risk.
Paraguay vs. Brazil Copa América Odds
Odds as of June 28
Michel Anderson's Pick: Brazil U1.5 (+157)
Ronaldinho was right, this is the worst Brazilian team ever. They had all of the ball and all of the attempts but couldn't score a single goal against Costa Rica. And now they go up against a Paraguay side that has the blueprints for extracting a single point from this match.
Maybe Brazil finds a way to break through here because Paraguay is worse (per FIFA rankings) than Costa Rica, but I'm not convinced enough to bet the OVER on Brazil's goal total. So I'll take the plus money on UNDER 1.5 goals from Brazil.
Nick Holz's Pick: Brazil 1st Half Moneyline (-117)
The Selecao were wasteful against Costa Rica, but did have a goal ruled out via VAR, and Paqueta hit the woodwork.
Brazil held nearly three-quarters of possession and fired 19 shots on Matchday 1. This team is far too talented to be held scoreless for much longer. Expect Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo to unleash their talents against Paraguay tonight. Many strange early goals have occurred in international tournaments this summer, as backlines have been left in the dust. Brazil 1st half moneyline is my best Copa America bet of the evening.