Euro 2016 – Quarter Finals Preview & Bets

Poland ($3.6) versus Portugal ($2.4), Draw ($2.87)

The first Quarter Final sees Poland take on Portugal and it’s a really difficult one to gauge so it could be quite a close contest. Portugal are pretty lucky to have made it through to this stage after 3 draws in the group stage and that somewhat upset win over Croatia in the round of 16. They still have the capabilities to push into the Semi Finals as well but Poland pose a pretty difficult task. Poland conceded their first goal of the tournament in their penalty win over Switzerland but it took an outrageous attempt from Shaqiri to break that streak. In 3 of Portugal’s games the result ended under 1.5 goals and this has the potential to follow suit given Poland’s defensive strength and Portugal’s inability to really kick on in front of goal (excluding the 3-3 draw against Hungary). With that this one could go right through to penalties as well.

Predicted score: Draw 0-0 (Normal time)
Best Bet: Half-time draw at $1.8 (85%)
Next Best: Under 1.5 goals at $2.27

Wales ($6) versus Belgium ($1.75), Draw ($3.3)

This looks a really exciting contest. Wales are dangerous through the likes of Bale and Ramsey whilst Belgium have started to kick into gear after 3 straight wins capped off by a strong 4-0 win over Hungary in the round of 16. Most importantly, Hazard has been brilliant with 2 assists and a goal in his last 3 games and looks almost back to his best after a poor club season with Chelsea. That could well end up being the difference in this game but this does look like one that will produce goals. Wales have nothing to lose so won’t be shy about pushing forward at times but even on the break they can be lethal so Belgium will need to be wary. A downside for Belgium will be the absence of Vermaelen through suspension so there will be a reshuffle at the back though I can’t see it changing their performance too much. Expect some goals in this one and an entertaining contest but Belgium should edge it with that extra bit of depth.

Predicted score: Belgium 2-1
Best Bet: Over 2.5 goals at $2.33 (90%)
Next Best: Both teams to score at $2.2

Germany ($2.25) versus Italy ($3.85), Draw ($3)

Another tough match here especially for Italy who have to take on World Cup winners Germany. Italy will be quietly confident about their chances though after topping a group that included Belgium before making it through at the expense of Spain in the round of 16. This match does look a different proposition though as Germany are still yet to concede in this tournament and with Italy’s strength in defence also, this could be a low scoring match. Germany will be looking to build on their 3-0 win over Slovakia and strength in depth across the pitch should see them edge this one. Italy have some midfield issues with Motta to miss through suspension whilst De Rossi is an injury doubt which would be a big loss in what will be a tough battle in midfield where Germany have a huge amount of class through Kroos, Khedira, and Ozil.

Predicted score: Germany 1-0 (normal time)
Best Bet: Half-time draw at $1.83 (80%)
Next Best: Germany to win either half at $1.68

France ($1.4) versus Iceland ($9), Draw ($4.75)

France are another step closer to the Semi-finals and they have a favourable but also dangerous match here against Iceland. With Wales beating Belgium, Iceland can take a lot of confidence and inspiration from that even though they probably don’t really need it. They deservedly beat England who had been horrible in this tournament and they will have every chance of an upset here. France have played a little nervously at times in this tournament which is understandable to a certain degree given it’s in their home country. This should however be a match where goals will come through, much like in Wales’s 3-1 win over Belgium. Iceland won’t be shy about pushing forward and they look likely to score. France will have a lot of chances too given their strong attacking players and although they may look nervy early, they should have enough to get the win required. The absence of Kante and Rami isn’t ideal, particularly Kante who has continued his premier league form, but they have enough depth in both positions to cover the absences and get another win.

Predicted score: France 2-1
Best Bet: Over 2.5 goals at $2.03 (80%)
Next Best: Both teams to score – Yes at $2.3

Author

Goal

As an Australian growing up AFL was always my no.1 sport especially given I was lucky enough to grow up a few blocks from Carlton’s home ground, Princes Park, where I was lucky enough to attend many games. That’s where my passion for sport began but it was until the early 2000’s when I discovered a real passion for football with the Socceroos 2002 World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay accelerating my football journey. From there I began to follow the Premier League and haven’t looked back since. These days I’m a massive Tottenham fan where I’ve enjoyed many sleepless nights religiously watching them without missing a game despite many roller coaster feelings. There’s just something magical and glamorous when you watch the EPL and knowing the Profits owners Drew and Euan through studies, I’m now lucky enough to be able to share my thoughts on each game each week of the season.

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