Euro 2008 Expert Selections

Russia v Sweden
Euro 2008 – Group D
Wednesday 18 June, 7.45pm (UK time)

It's set to be a tense affair in Innsbruck as both sides chase the final quarter-final spot at Euro 2008. The winner takes all but the draw will favour Sweden who have the superior goal difference.

Sweden have proved to be a well-drilled, industrious outfit but apart from Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Henrik Larsson, they lack the spark and adventure to make a significant impact.

As a result it could pay to side with Gus Hiddink’s Russia have a little bit more about them and should be backed at 13/8 to sneak a victory.

As we saw during the qualification stages, Russia do have plenty of promise in their ranks but also have the tendency to blow either hot or cold. Hiddink, however, is grooming his side to become less fragile and more creative and who can argue with the master tactician's credentials.

He has a habit of taking underdog nations – South Korea and Australia – beyond the group stages of major tournaments and as it comes to the crunch once again he certainly has a group of players capable of succeeding and ending Sweden's European dreams.


Betting Recommendations:
2pts on Russia to win at 13/8
1pt on Draw/Russia in the Half-Time/Full-Time market at 5/1