What are the World Cup Talking Points?

It's been a strange old World Cup really. Whilst football fanatics are generally disappointed by the nil -nils and low scoring matches, the tournament may have produced many overly cautious and defense-focused games but there are still many talking points on and off the pitch.

Online Casino Reports brings you the World Cup Talking Points so far.

It's a Continental Thing

It seems that continental and not just national pride is at stake in the World Cup, with less traditional footballing nations nudging at the pedigrees for some international acclaim.

South America are one continent that can hold their heads up high, with all five teams making the knock outs. Host nation Africa have had a disappointing World Cup with only Ghana remaining in the tournament.

European fans were in for a few shocks with France pressing the self destruct button and making an early exit. Defending champs Italy also went home with their tails between their legs. Other European teams, such as Spain and Germany all showed a deadly lack of imagination and confidence in some of their early games. But then all are capable of shaking off a poor start and turning on the magic for the knock out round.

A Few Surprises

The World Cup may have given a few teams some nasty surprises but it's great to see a few upsets too. 'Softer' teams such as New Zealand, South Korea, Japan and US surprised the critics whereas expected stars such as Brazil appeared to have lost their sparkle in the qualifying round.

On Everyone's Lips

Other talking points of the World Cup so far have been the Jabulani ball, which falling teams never fail to blame for their demise and the noisy vuvuzelas, which are a major cause of irritation for viewers at home and no doubt bug many a player too.

The current bone of contention is the refereeing gaffes that had a serious impact on both of yesterday's games - both Mexico and England will no doubt be ruing 'what could have been' and will rightfully feel aggrieved.

Plenty may knock it but we're all watching the World Cup spectacle and with the final 16 now battling it out, there's more at stake every day.

Live Betting

By far the best World Cup betting aide so far has been William Hill's "Widget".

This feature from Will Hill gives you the latest odds and news about all the players and teams - and all a simple click away from a special landing page where you can bet on the match you click on. So click, and bet!