EURO 2012 BETTING PICK - SWEDEN V FRANCE

Euro 2012

2012-06-19 - Sweden vs France

A Sports Betting Pick by Addicted

SWEDEN v FRANCE
Football : Europe : EURO 2012
Tuesday, June 19th, 2012, 7:45PM GMT

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PREVIEW

If you've read build up for this match elsewhere you'll know that it is still mathematically possible for France to be knocked out, but please don't hold your breath. France would need to lose (not going to happen) and see England lose to the Ukraine too (really not going to happen). The likelyhood is France will end up beating Sweden, who will attack France looking to end their tournament on a high, for pride. Ireland tried it against Italy and got hit. The same should happen here too, as France do still have motivation to win this.

France could be overtaken by England if they fail to win, so Les Bleus do very much want all 3 points from this match, one they can win comfortably if they play to their potential. Sweden have proved clearly they cannot hold on to a lead. In their opener they lead Ukraine before allowing old man Shevchenko to net a double, and against England they were allowed to come from behind to lead, only to let Hodgsons men score twice to retake the lead. If England's defence can be criticised, Swedens should be crucified.

The head-to-head favours France, who have now not lost to Sweden in 11 matches, dating back to 1969. In fact, France are unbeaten in their last 23 games overall, the longest streak of any team in the tournament. In that time they've won 16 and drawn 7, including that 1-1 draw against England in the opener. France have the best shooting accuracy in the tournament, with 68% of their shots on target. They took care of co-hosts Ukraine in their last match, winning 2-0. Make no mistake, unlike England, they will not give Sweden chances to score. Through 2 games they have only allowed their opponents 2 shots on target!!

I think the bet here has to be France, who will probably be attacked by Sweden who are desperate not to finish the tournament like Ireland, without a point. France should have enough chances to break and score, and in players like Benzema, Ribery, Nasri they have real threats, even from distance. Benzema has conspicuously failed to score so far, despite being the country's top goalscorer since Laurent Blanc took over. I've a feeling he will net in this game, so consider him in the anytime goalscorer markets.

BETTING VERDICT

I was going to consider goals here but I feel there is a very real chance France could shut Sweden down. It's best to look for a higher price on the AH markets but only on a France win.

The Pick :

BEST BETTING TIP :

Consider
Benzema to score @ 2.50