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“Bear Bets” are real bets that Chris “The Bear” Fallica actually makes.
The World Cup is finally here, and what’s even more exciting is that the USA will be co-hosting it right here on our home turf.
It doesn’t get much better than that.
Well, actually it might get a little better if we are able to monetize the action.
Here’s how I’m betting on Day 1 of the biggest event on the planet.
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World Cup Best Bet — Thursday, June 11
Mexico vs. South Africa
Mexico is a heavy favorite in its opening game against South Africa (Getty Images).
It would be very surprising if Mexico were defeated here, but putting -1200 on Mexico’s double chance is a bit steep. Instead, I will look at the highest scoring half of the game being the second half. My thinking is that in the first half South Africa will be fresh and there is a possibility of a 0-0 score at half-time. However, the second half could be where the heat and altitude from Azteca take over and we could see some breakdowns – or even a penalty kick.
Fallica’s Choice: 
The second half will be the highest scoring (+110)
South Korea vs Czech Republic
Watch Czech Pavel Šulc keep his eye on goal in their World Cup opener (Getty Images).
This is a huge battle out of the blocks as one of these two will likely finish second to Mexico in the group. And who knows, maybe you could even pull an upset against El Tri and win the group. It makes me think these teams will go for it, especially with the game being played later tonight in Guadalajara. Patrik Schick gets the headlines, but Pavel Šulc had an excellent season domestically for Lyon, scoring in the play-off against Denmark. I can see him looking for scoring opportunities here. I pick up the bonus money on shot attempts (which is different to shots on goal, for those new to football betting).
