Italy v France - Euro 2008 Picks

Italy v France
Euro 2008 – Group C
Tuesday 17 June, 7.45pm (UK time)

How did it come to this? The two sides that contested the World Cup final two years ago must be asking themselves that question – but if there’s any justice it will be Italy – 6/4 to win here – who claim three points and hope Romania fail to beat Holland in the group’s other match.

To say France have been the biggest disappointment of the tournament so far would be an understatement. Manager Raymond Domenech’s lack of acumen on the touchlines, from where he gazes blankly across the pitch rather inspire or improving his side during the game, coupled with a lack of belief among the players and the inexplicable inclusion of so many players whose powers are waning, have all contributed to their downfall. For les Bleus the Euro 2008 exercise has been a disaster.

By contrast, Italy haven’t played badly at all. A point was probably all they deserved against Romania last Friday but they did have a perfectly good Luca Toni header disallowed. Unlike the French, Italy appear to be still hugely motivated, with their fightback after falling behind to Romania and the ecstatic reaction to Gianluigi Buffon’s late, excellent penalty save last Friday clear signs of a united squad. That’s why we’re backing Italy.

We also fancy over 2.5 goals since the do-or-die nature of final group games leads to a high proportion of high-scoring games. Sagnol, Gallas and particularly Thuram have looked vulnerable so far, so a 2-1 or 3-1 scoreline would be no surprise.


Recommended Bets:
2pts on Italy to win at 6/4
2pts on Over 2.5 goals at 11/10