Wednesday sees the start of the second round of group games, and the three matches on offer could provide thrills and spills galore as the tournament shows signs of hitting top gear.
Those that won their first matches will be looking to seal their respective places in the last 16 while those that have lost are in desperate need of victory. It should generate some intriguing battles over the next few days, starting with this trio of matches.
Of course, we’ll be looking to win some money too. Here’s where we’ll be placing our money.
Wednesday’s Matches: Russia v Slovakia (2PM, BBC One); Romania v Switzerland (5PM, ITV) France v Albania (8PM, ITV)
Wednesday’s action begins with a crucial battle in Lille as Russia take on Slovakia in a match that neither team can really afford to lose. A late equaliser against England will have Leonid Slutsky’s men will be confident spirits. However, the group’s bottom side won’t need to be scared following Russia’s lacklustre performance in Marseille.
Then, it’s back to Group A as Romania look to build on a positive performance against France with their first points of the championships. The Romanian’s don’t boast a particularly good record in continental competition, but they can be quietly optimistic against a Swiss side that were unconvincing in their 1-0 win over 10-man Albania.
The Albanians are also in action as they take on host nation France at the Stade Velodrome. Will Didier Deschamps men grow into the tournament with a more confident display or can the plucky underdogs cause an upset?
All three games have the potential to provide fireworks. Let’s hope they bring us profit too.
Toe Punter v The Bookies
The day’s opening game is particularly difficult to predict as neither side looked particularly impressive in their first matches. For the first time in the tournament, we’re not predicting anything. Let’s face it; Thursday’s afternoon fixture will be far more exciting anyway.
In the 5PM fixture, Switzerland could seal their place in the last 16 with a win but would probably settle for a draw as that will almost certainly see them progress. For Romania, the need for points is far more palpable.
But with a clash against Albania to come in their final fixture, Romania would more than likely settle for the draw too. Either team could win it, and we hope that will lead to a game of goals.
Over in Marseille, Albania will be look to frustrate France and will probably put in another good account. Sadly, we just cannot see them stopping the firepower of Les Bleus.
Sadly for Gianni De Biasi, his side just doesn’t possess the attacking quality. But they’ll have to attack if they fall behind, which could lead to further French goals. If that does happen Paul Pogba is likely to have a starring role in midfield. Back the Juve man to get on the scoresheet.
