ENGLAND expects – but not as much as usual and that could go in their favour.
Flopping spectacularly in recent finals has lowered fans' sights and there are question marks over boss Roy Hodgson and his defence.
However, a perfect 10 qualifying campaign plus the introduction of some young, hungry attackers are positives.
I expect England to make a run to the semi-finals – quarters at least – but won't be backing them to win at a best 9-1 with McBookie because they'll concede too many.
I do expect them to beat Russia today if they can handle the heat on their way to winning Group A. At first glance it's an easy task for England but Russia, Slovakia and Wales in particular will give them decent tests.
Hodgson's men are a best 19-20 to start with three points and should get them as long as Chris Smalling and Gary Cahill don't give too much away. If you disagree look at draw at 12-5 with bet365 or Russia at 15-4.
England have goals in them but boast no outstanding defenders so could concede here and in all three of their games.
Both teams to score in Marseille pays 23-20 with William Hill and that's one bet I like. Over 2.5 goals is also worth taking at 7-5 with Betway.
Harry Kane could start on his own up top and is worth backing at 9-2 with Paddy Power to score first against an ageing defence that lacks pace and anytime at 6-4 with McBookie and Ladbrokes.
Russia's dangerman is Artem Dzyuba who is 15-2 to break the deadlock and a tempting 3-1 with Ladbrokes to net at any time. Dzyuba netted eight in the qualifiers and fired 15 in 30 league games for Zenit.
Bets to Consider
Kane to score first
Dyzuba to score
Both teams to score
Resident football tipster at Scotland's most read newspaper, the Daily Record, for over 20 years and proud host of one the best betting communities on the web with daily betting tips.
hi guys im feeling the over 2.5 goals also but will leave it till 18mins in, should be nearly 2/1.
Ive had an absolute nightmare last few days, built up £609 from £50 at “favourit” betting site and yesterday logged in to start placing my euro picks and the company has gone bust and ceased trading!
Been trying to withdraw funds but its looking more and more likely im going to lose the lot bar my £50.
hope no other members have been affected, took me 5 weeks to build that up.
Don’t know if this has been said elsewhere but England have never won their opening match in the Euro finals
duncanpoundcake, it’s been said – same deal for the Swiss before today.
Fair enough ,score draw for me GL.
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