(30 June 2006 2:00 pm)

MUMBAI: Now that the month-long soccer World Cup has reached the quarterfinal stage, only eight of 32 teams remain in contention for the trophy. World Cup favourites Brazil remains the bookmaker's pick to win their sixth world championship at 5/2 odds.

With the hopes of fans pinned on their national teams PinnacleSports.com, which claims to be the internet's largest sports betting site, has announced updated odds on the eight
remaining teams capturing soccer's biggest prize.

After a thrilling overtime victory over Mexico, PinnacleSports.com lists Argentina at 9/2 odds to become World Cup champions along with host-country Germany, who will face Argentina in the first quarterfinal match Friday.

Meanwhile, Italy stands at 13/2 to capture their fourth World Cup following their controversial penalty-kick win over Australia.

Despite uninspired play in both the Group stage and versus Ecuador, England currently stands at 7/1 to end the country's 40-year World Cup drought. Meanwhile, PinnacleSports.com
lists France (11/1), Portugal (14/1) and Ukraine (55/1) as long shots to emerge as world champions.

PinnacleSports.com's Simon Noble says, "Entering the tournament, Brazil was known for its explosive goal scoring ability, but after only allowing one goal in World Cup play, they
appear to be equally skilled on the defensive end. Argentina has become a trendy World Cup pick with experts and bettors, but the young Argentineans next face the grueling task
of playing the Germans in front of a hostile Berlin crowd. Although they advanced thanks to a controversial foul call in extra time, Italy, with their exceptional defense led by Buffon in goal, cannot be overlooked for the remainder of the tournament."

PinnacleSports.com is offering online betting options with limits of up to $50,000. For each match, Pinnacle Sports will offer three-way betting, low-margin Asian handicaps.