Euro 2008: Portugal v Germany Betting Tips

Portugal v Germany

Tonight sees the first quarter final of the Euro 2008 Championships and it’s the game that both countries wanted to avoid. Portugal and Germany were both expected to top their group thereby avoiding each other until the semi final, however each of them will feel that if they win this one then the final is a distinct possibility with either Croatia or Turkey standing between them and that final place. But who will make it through between two of the pre-tournament favourites?

Portugal breezed through their group with impressive wins over Turkey and Czech Republic securing their qualification before an under-strengthed eleven succumbed to host nation Switzerland in a meaningless final game. With the likes of Deco, Petit, Nani and Ronaldo at his disposal, Phil Scolari has plenty of flair to call upon. I don’t think ROnaldo has quite hit his peak so far at Euro 2008 but his form is bubbling under quite nicely. Tonight is the kind of game that he has to deliver in to truly be crowned the best player in the world.

So no pressure there then!

As for Germany, they stuttered out of their group without ever really hitting top gear. An unconvincing 1-0 win over Austria was enough to secure second spot in Group B after a slightly surprising 2-1 defeat to Croatia had put their qualification hopes in doubt. Given the group that they were in I always thought Germany might take a while to get going and they showed a glimmer of form in the opening spell of the second half against Austria but they’ll need to move up another level to see off Portugal tonight.

Personally, I think Joachim Löw is still stuggling to find his best eleven. He’s persevered with the dismal Gomez and he may be forced to pick him again since Podolski looks to be struggling with a knock. It will be interesting to see if he will shake things up a bit tonight. Michael Ballack finally announced his arrival at the tournament witha stunning free-kick last time out and Germany need a big big performance from him tonight.

Unsurprisingly the bookies reckon Portugal have the edge in this one and they’re justifiably favourites at 6/4 (888 Sport, Betfred, Blue Sq, Boylesports, Coral, Paddy Power, SkyBet), whereas the Germans are best priced at 9/4 (Bet365, Bet Direct, Centrebet, Ladbrokes, Stan James).

Never write off the Germans they say and I’m not about to tonight. Portugal’s lack of a true goalscorer – Ronaldo aside – has always been a concern for me as has their ‘keeper, Ricardo. Germany’s stopper, Lehmann, isn’t much better mind you but I think in Klose and Podolski they pose the greater goal threat if their midfield can get to grips with Ronaldo and co.

At 11/10 (Bet365, BetInternet, Coral, Ladbrokes, Paddy Power, William Hill) to qualify I think the Germans look good value. Given their incredible record in spot kicks you’d have to fancy them if it goes the distance. They haven’t even missed a penalty kick in a shoot out since 1982, winning the last 4 on the trot.

Miroslav Klose has yet to find the back of the net in the tournament but he has a great record at this level and is 11/4 (William Hill) to find his scoring touch at anytime night. That might be worth a small wager.

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