Sports

The Scout: EURO 2020 Day 4

Scotland vs Czech Republic

Scotland and Czech Republic are the underdogs to qualify out of Group D so both teams would likely need a win here to make that a reailty.

It has been more than 20 years since Scotland has taken place in a major tournament and they have been gifted with a perfect start, (marginal) favourites against a side on home soil. The Scots qualified dramatically for for this tournament via back-to-back penalty shootout wins over Israel and Serbia.

Czech Republic qualified for the tournament by finishing second in their group behind England, despite beating the Three Lions when playing them in group play. Although they had success during qualification, their recent results have been poor, going down 1-0 to Wales before getting demolished 4-0 at the hands of the Italians.

These teams played twice last year with Scotland winning on both occasions. Scotland have a strong core of Premier League players – Che Adams (Southampton), Andy Robertson (Liverpool), Kieran Tierney (Arsenal) and Scott McTominay (Manchester United) and I think this sees them win here.

SUGGESTED BET: Scotland (Match Result) @ $2.70*


Poland vs Slovakia

Group E kicks off with Poland taking on Slovakia at the Saint Petersburg’s Gazprom Arena.

Poland have suffered through a rough build up to their Euro 2020 campaign with draws against Russia and Iceland. To compound their issues, striker Arkadiusz Milik (Marseille) is out of the squad due to a knee injury.

Against Slovakia, Poland have the opportunity to put all of their woes to bed and can enter this match knowing they have a significant advantage over the opponent because of one man, Robert Lewandoski. The legendary striker had a magnificent season for Bayern Munich scoring 41 goals in 29 matches..

Slovakia plays a defensive style and like to sit back and will only press on the counter attack. This will suit Poland perfectly who will maintain possession and provide plenty of opportunities for arguably the greatest striker in the world to do what he does best, score goals.

SUGGESTED BET: Robert Lewandowski First Goalscorer @ $3.60*


Spain vs Sweden

Three time European Champions Spain kick off their EURO 2020 campaign against Sweden in Seville. Spain would become the most successful team in the history of the competition if they claim their 4th title, while Sweden is looking to get out of group stages for the first time since 2004.

It has not been an ideal preparation for Luis Enrique’s Spanish team, with Sergio Busquets testing positive to COVID-19, completing halting their build up to the tournament. The team were forced to train individually when the news hit and losing Busquets’ leadership will also hurt.

Sweden will be without legendary striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic but manager Janne Andersson has built a squad that does not rely solely on one player. The striking partnership of Marcus Berg and Alexander Isak alongside Emil Forsberg will provide plenty of firepower. This was on full display with Sweden winning their last give games, and scoring 14 goals in their last seven.

Spain may need a game or two to fully find their rhythm but the talent they have across the pitch is undeniable. The likes of Forren Torres (Manchester City), Alvaro Morata (Juventus), Koke (Atletico Madrid), Jordi Alba (Barcelona) and Thiago (Liverpool) should see them claim maximum points in the opening game.

SUGGESTED BET: Spain and Over 2.5 Goals @ $2.20*

*Odds correct as at 8am, 14th June 2021.

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