**Odds from Sportsbet as at 10th July

Portugal ($4.1) versus France ($2.1), Draw ($3.2)

The improving Portugal take on the hosts France in the final and it’s shaping up to be a pretty good contest. Portugal have had their fair share of criticism this tournament with some far from impressive results early on but through hard work they’ve made it to the final and have built some form to get there. France had some nerves early on in the group stages but things have come together nicely. They’re scoring goals and despite being for the most part dominated by Germany in their semi-final, they came out on top.
Both sides have little worries in terms of injuries so we should see two full strength sides competing here. For me this doesn’t come down to how well Ronaldo plays either. Portugal throughout have been strong defensively and look well organised whilst the flipside is that France offensively have been very dangerous. Even when another side, such as Germany in the semi-final, look to dominate the game and create chances, France will still create their own and for the most part can hold their own defensively. Of course there is the likelihood that Ronaldo could take this match by the scruff of the neck but to do that he’ll still need to be well supported because I don’t see him doing it completely on his own.
The start of this match will show some nerves from both sides but it’s understandable that France will have a few more than their opponents. The weight of the nation will be on their shoulders but for me the way they fought against Germany in particular shows they can conquer that expectation. Along with that there should be goals in this. Ronaldo will be hungry as this is another moment for him to shine but the likes of Griezmann are in such good form that it’d be a pretty massive win for Portugal to keep France scoreless.

Predicted score: France 2-1

Best Bet: Both teams to score – Yes at $2.1 (80%)

Next Best: France to win at $2.1

Goal scorer: Griezmann to score anytime at $2.63