ONE of the biggest games of the first round sees Italy and Belgium clash – two teams who hope to go deep into the tournament.
Both will expect to beat other Group D rivals Sweden and Ireland and the importance of the game could see the sides fight out a draw.
Italy were one of four teams alongside Austria, England and Romania who were unbeaten in qualifying and they've lost just two of their 21 games in the group stages of the Euros – 1o wins and nine draws.
The Italians have actually drawn more games than any other side (15) and have played out the most 0-0s and they are stronger in defence with three Juve men in there as well as evergreen keeper Gianluigi Buffon.
This game has the feel of another low scorer – possibly 1-1 – and I'm on the draw at 21-10 with McBookie and bet365 and under 2.5 goals at 7-12 with marathonbet.
Belgium are favourites at 8-5 with William Hill and bet365 with the Italians 9-4 at McBookie and Paddy Power.
While Italy don't possess a world-class striker – their biggest goal threat could come from Southampton's Graziano Pelle – the Belgians have Romelu Lukaku who will be hoping to make his mark on France.
Lukaku is 5-1 at Ladbrokes and bet365 to score first and 9-4 at 888sport to net at any time.
Bets to Consider
HT 0-0
FT Draw
Under 2.5 goals
Lukaku 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.
The myth that is Belgium v the poorest Italian team in living memory.
Under 2.5 goals.
Conte will have defence drilled like his old juve team and maybe if there is a goal they might nick it late on
Half with most goals, if any are scored !, 2nd half.
Won’t be a goal fest that’s for sure.
Cue a 3-3, haha