YTD (EUROS): 0-0 ATS
Finally able to come back to my beloved soccer and the forum in hopes of blazing through this tournament and the Copa America. They will not be easy though as these tournaments pit countries with similar playing styles and a lot of familiarity against one another. Moreover, in the Euros, there was a pretty rigorous qualification so all of these teams are capable, though not all of them will move forward obviously.
My outlook on the tournament is more about teams playing well coming into the matches and players who have had solid if not spectacular seasons vs. the name on the jersey. Based on that, I have taken futures on ENGLAND (group winner), NETHERLANDS (to win group), CROATIA (to win tournament) and PORTUGAL (to win tournament). Clearly not all of that can happen but with England, they have both Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden who have been lights out this year coupled with Harry Kane who always seems to do well in these tourneys. But they haven't played well of late so I dont' back them to win the whole thing even though they were finalists last time around (though it was played on their home soil). The Netherlands have been crushing teams of late, many of whom are legitimate sides, and I like them to win their group and go far in the tournament.
Regarding both Croatia and Portugal, in a tournament such as this, their experience will come through and they have long enough odds to get a nice return should they find the prominence for one time with their aging group of players. Though Croatia's work will be getting out of the "group of death" and if they do that I think they have a legitimate shot to really advance.
As a darkhorse, I like HUNGARY who can hold teams down with their defensive play and have a group that I think they can come out of. I don't think Italy will lift the trophy again so I will short them and France has all the tools needed to win but they have been playing lethargically so they will have to find their footing or face an early exit. They are my favored side though.
Today's game pits the home side Germany against a long shot in Scotland, though again, there is no real long shots here as most have had to qualify and know the playing styles of one another. The Germans have NOT been playing great and I don't think are fielding a side which evokes fear into most. There is NO doubt in my mind that they win this game but I'm not sure if they can get more than 2 goals as there will be nerves and excitement with this being the inaugural match of this years tournament.
One thing to consider...the last Euros saw a HUGE amount of goals scored. I don't think that will happen this time around as last tournament was played during the actual season (albeit all the leagues took a break) and so I think players were in total match shape and that led to higher scoring numbers. This year's format returns to how it's always been and for that reason I can see defense being more on par, especially in some of the earlier matches.
SCOTLAND/GERMAN UNDER 3 (-130) is my play today. I will have more tomorrow as well as more insights after the first game. It's a bit dicey of a play but if my analysis is correct, it's the right side.
As always, do your own research, keep comments positive, and tail or fade, good luck to all...
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