WALES fans are still basking in the glory of their epic win over Turkey heading into the final round of Group A games on Sunday.
I reckoned Rob Page’s men would struggle to get out of a tough section but their place in the last 16 is assured after Wednesday’s 2-0 triumph in Baku made it four points from two games.
That would be enough to seal a spot as one of the best third-placed sides but the Welsh will be aiming higher than that as they head to Rome to face Italy.
A victory would see them top the group but all they need to do to finish second is avoid a heavy defeat.
Switzerland can match Wales’ tally with a win over Turkey in the other group game but need a six-goal swing to jump above the Dragons on goal difference.
It’s a good job Page’s men don’t need a result tomorrow as Italy have been looking pretty formidable in the Stadio Olimpico.
Successive 3-0 wins have shown Roberto Mancini’s men are contenders to go all the way.
The Azzurri have shipped just three goals in their last 19 games and another win to nil pays 11/10 at Betway.
But the Welsh have looked a threat in their games, with Gareth Bale and Aaron Ramsey back to their best in midweek.
Mancini might also think about resting some of his players with Italy’s place in the last 16 guaranteed after their win over the Swiss.
So there could be more value in both teams to score at 7/5 with SportNation while doubling BTTS and an Italy win increases the odds to 16/5 at BetVictor.
I backed over 2.5 goals in Wales’ clash with Turkey and was left tearing my hair out as chance after chance was spurned.
But that bet has landed in both of Italy’s games and pays 23/20 at McBookie for this one.
There should also be goals in the other group game as Switzerland and Turkey both need a win.
The Turks have been a massive disappointment after many people, myself included, thought they could make a big impact at Euro 2020.
They came into the finals with a free-scoring reputation yet haven’t even managed a goal.
But Senol Gunes’ men can still squeeze into the last 16 if they beat Switzerland tomorrow and other results go their way.
The Swiss would be guaranteed a place in the knockout rounds if they win and it bodes well for an entertaining game, with over 2.5 goals priced 4/5 at SportNation.
Turkey’s defence has struggled with pace in their opening two games and that is something Breel Embolo has in abundance.
The 24-year-old forward looks a good shout for anytime scorer at a best 2/1 with BetVictor.
It’s all or nothing for both teams and that could lead to a few cards. McBookie are offering 17/20 on over 3.5 cards, which should land.
Super Singles
- Both teams to score in Italy v Wales (6/4, SportNation)
- Breel Embolo anytime scorer in Switzerland v Turkey (2/1, BetVictor)
- Over 3.5 cards in Switzerland v Turkey (17/20, McBookie)
I'm a sports journalist, football tipster and author from Dundee, who is now working in Glasgow. I've covered games at every level, from Junior football to internationals, and still love football even though it has clearly sold its soul. I've been in football tipping since 2018 with the MFT site.
