In a Group G matchup, South Africa (0-1-1) and Italy (1-0-1) meet Wednesday in the 2023 Women’s World Cup at Wellington Regional Stadium in New Zealand. Kickoff is scheduled for 3 a.m. ET (FS1). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the South Africa vs. Italy odds, and make our best Women’s World Cup bets, picks and predictions.
South Africa suffered a 2-1 setback against Sweden in the opener on July 23 and played to a 2-2 draw against Argentina Thursday. With a win and a little help, South Africa can play its way into the Round of 16.
Italy was thrashed 5-0 by Sweden last time out, splashing cold water on last Monday’s 1-0 victory over Argentina. The Azzurri have an ugly minus-4 goal differential, so it basically loses any tiebreaker. As such, a draw would likely not cut it if Argentina were to upend Sweden.
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South Africa vs. Italy odds
Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Tuesday at 11:13 a.m. ET.
- Moneyline: South Africa +375 (bet $100 to win $375) | Italy -150 (bet $150 to win $100) | Draw +280 (Bet $100 to win $280)
- Over/Under: 2.5 (O: -120 | U: -120)
South Africa vs. Italy picks and predictions
Prediction
Italy 2, South Africa 1
Moneyline (ML)
ITALY (-150) will need all hands on deck as it looks to recover from a 5-0 beating from Sweden. It cannot rely upon a draw to get through to the Round of 16 based on an ugly goal differential, so it will be pushing hard on offense trying to break through and South Africa hasn’t offered much resistance to date, conceding 4 goals through 2 matches.
Over/Under (O/U)
OVER 2.5 GOALS (-120) will cost you a little extra, but it’s the best play on the board. The Over-Under has split across 2 games to date for Italy while the Over has cashed in both fixtures for South Africa.
I like ITALY TO WIN AND BOTH TEAMS TO SCORE (+240) for a chance to more than double up, too. In addition, play the “multiple correct score” prop, considering ITALY 2:1, 3:1 OR 4:1 (+350) for a shot at multiplying your initial wager by 3 1/2 times.
Check out Pro Soccer Wire: For the American soccer fan, USA TODAY Sports Media Group’s website provides a fresh look at the beautiful game.
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For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.
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