2014 World Cup Golden Boot – favourites to be Top Gun
Four years ago, Thomas Muller won the Golden Boot as he fired five goals helping Germany reach the final of the tournament, where they ultimately fell short against winners Spain. Muller is priced at 33-1 to notch the award again and the Bayern Munich forward has been in good form this season, although his record of 12 goals in 25 matches isn’t as prolific as others who will be vying for the honour. However, with Joachim Low’s side expected to power through Group G against Portugal, Ghana and the United States there is a strong possibility Muller could repeat his feat of 2010.
There will be little surprise to see that Lionel Messi leads the way as the favourite at 8-1 for the Golden Boot, even though Argentina aren’t the major power they once were in the game. Messi can take apart any team and is more than capable of carrying his nation on his back into the latter stages of the tournament, where he is sure to bag plenty of strikes. The 26-year-old will have a huge benefit from going up against Bosnia-Hercegovina, Iran and Nigeria in Group F, following his 23 strikes in La Liga this season which has put him in prime form.
If one player has matched the form of Messi it’s that of his rival Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portuguese legend has notched an incredible 28 goals in just 27 matches for Real Madrid as he looks to fire them to the title. Ronaldo’s chances of landing the Golden Boot maybe hindered by the limited talent around him in Paulo Bento’s squad, along with facing Germany and Ghana in Group G. The 29-year-old’s ability from penalties and set pieces could weigh into the mix, but at 14-1 he could struggle to keep the pace as his side’s chances to advance further into the competition look slim.
Spain boast Alvaro Negredo and Diego Costa both priced at 25-1 who could take the prize. Costa has been a revelation in front of goal for Atletico Madrid this season while Negredo has thrived at Manchester City despite trailing off in recent weeks. Vicente Del Bosque’s side will make a run towards the latter stages once again, and due to that likelihood whoever leads the line will likely see a plethora of opportunities come their way.
