It’s now the quarter-finals, and who better to follow than Anthony Dunkley? If you had a quid on every selection he’s tipped at the Euros, you’d be nearly £33 richer! He previews all of the quarters in one go.
Now all of the Group Stage madness is finally out of the way, punters may be feeling a little downheartened. Surely all the value has gone? Not to worry though, there are still a few selections about to make your wallet bulge further in your pocket. There will be no speculatives for this round, unless I’ve spotted a little nugget of gold hiding in there somewhere. Bookies are notoriously stingy.
Portugal v Czech Republic
The first quarter final will be entertaining, although not exactly one to get stuck into. Portugal travel to the National Stadium in Warsaw to take on the Czech Republic, a team I previously gave no hope to.
I was as stunned as the next guy to watch the Czechs make it through. Without Poland and Russia in the quarters, I feel that the big teams may have it easier than they should, and that’s why the 8-11 about a Portugal victory is too good to pass up.
The Czechs are missing a key player in Rosicky, who is doubtful to make the side 100% fit. Bruno Alves and Raul Meireles are both back to fitness for the Portuguese, and I think they will bury their opponents in a lot of pace-filled attack.
Portugal, by surviving the Group of Death, are now very dangerous in the knockout stages. I can’t go against them.
Germany v Greece
1-3. That’s Germany’s price. Short? Yes. Realistic? Yes again.
The Germans go into this hotly anticipated affair on the back of a solid qualifying campaign. Three games, three wins. Goals from Gomez, Podolski, and Bender have shown their versatility and they don’t look like stopping.
Greece are somehow in the quarters after a bizarre final evening in Group A which led to them and the Czechs going through, dumping out the two favourites for the group (Poland and Russia) scratching their heads wondering how it happened. Their performance in the group wasn’t bad at all, but there is no way I can see them living with the heat that Germany will bring.
Come the final whistle, it will most likely be Ozil and his merry band of men who will be punching the air in happiness.
Spain v France
A very tough one. What should still be a victory for Spain may be harder than it seems.
Spain are a very generous 4-5, and will be in a bullish mood to continue their winning ways. Only the Italians were a stumbling block to an otherwise perfect campaign. However, they may have to work harder against France. It is likely that they will raise their game against an initially promising French team.
France were expected to win their group, and after a lacklustre performance against Sweden, I can’t back them with confidence. Spain to win at 4-5.
England v Italy
Crunch time for England. They face an Italian side who held Spain to a draw and looked lively throughout the group.
Truth be told, I can’t put my bias aside. I have full confidence in England to brush aside Italy IF they get their act together and get a grip.
Let’s get this straight: Italy are beatable. Balotelli is moody, and they are missing Chiellini, which gives us options in attack.
However, England’s defence and midfield was shocking last time against the Ukraine. Awful passing made them look like world beaters, and a Ukrainian goal questionably chalked off makes me wonder if I’m setting myself up for a fall by giving them my backing.
Sod it…England to win at 17-10.
Best of luck everyone!
Top Four Finish 