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With two of South America's most attacking sides meeting, Phil Kitromilides is predicting a high scoring encounter in the early hours of Thursday morning

Of all the international friendly matches taking place across the globe this week, the contest between Brazil and Colombia in the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey is perhaps one of the most intriguing.

The undisputed kings of South American football versus a Colombia side with as much raw potential and natural skill since that fateful team of 1994 which flopped so tragically in the USA, which was the last time the nation qualified for a World Cup.

Given Brazil's status as hosts of the next World Cup they have been forced to prepare for the tournament by playing friendly matches, and have spent this year jetting around the planet playing lucrative (yet on occasions meaningless) exhibition games; their recent trip to China where they beat their hosts 8-0 is a prime example.

Yet in Colombia, the Samba Boys face a side in stunning form, swaggering with confidence and ready to cause an upset.

Marathonbet price a win for the five time World champions at 33/50 (1.66) while Colombia can be backed at an eye catching 24/5 (5.80), with the draw offered at 29/10 (3.90).

Much has been written about Radamel Falcao, Colombia's centre forward who has been scoring freely for both his club - Atletico Madrid - and country.

Indeed, the former River Plate striker, has been described as the best No.9 in the world by some, and his run of 17 goals in his last 13 appearances for Atleti and Colombia show just how special a player he is.

Yet as well as Falcao, Colombia also possess Jackson Martinez, currently bang in form at Porto with eight goals in his last 10 matches for club and country, as well as his domestic team mate James Rodriguez a player of exceptional vision and potential, capable of scoring as well as providing assists.

All of this means that Colombia are well placed not just to cause Brazil a few problems, but at the very least to score some goals.

12 strikes in their last four matches show the Colombians have managed to solve the problem that had plagued their side over the last few years, namely finding the back of the net.

Brazil's attacking threats meanwhile are well documented and with nine of their 11 friendly matches this year going over 2.5 goals a repeat looks extremely likely.

The price of 3/4 (1.75) for at least three goals to be scored looks hard to resist, while those feeling adventurous will back Colombia for a value bet to record their first ever win over Brazil at a sizable 24/5 (5.80).

BET

OF THE

DAY

BEST BET

VALUE BET

Over 2.5 goals at 3/4 (1.75) with Marathonbet

Colombia to win at 24/5 (5.80) with Marathonbet

Sign up with Marathonbet for a 10% price boost on winning accumulators and back Phil's selections for this match

Phil Kitromilides is a sports broadcaster working on radio and TV in London and Madrid. You can also follow Phil on Twitter.