Czech Republic vs. Portugal Betting Preview | Free Pick

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UEFA EURO CUP Betting - Group A - Czech Republic vs. Portugal

The second round of Euro Cup Group soccer betting kicks off on Wednesday June 10, 2008 in Group A with the top teams battling against each other. In what is shaping up to be a standout sports betting matchup, BetUS is already offering soccer odds on this sensational billing of Portugal vs. Czech Republic. So to get you online wagering on football, here is my free betting pick for the BetUS sports betting hamlet to consider.



Group A: Portugal vs. Czech Republic

Match Time: 12:00 PM Eastern Time, Wednesday June 11, 2008
Venue: Geneva - Stade de Genève

Soccer Betting Line:
Czech Republic +½ +105 +370 Over 2 EV Over ½ -155 Under ½ +125
Portugal -½ -125 -125 Under 2 -120 Under 1 +150 Over 1 -180
Draw +230

Alternative Spread and Total Odds:

Czech Republic PK +235 Over 1½ -190
Portugal PK -275 Under 1½ +160

Czech Republic +1 -200 Over 2½ +165
Portugal -1 +165 Under 2½ -200

Analysis:

Portugal (-125) Portugal showed a lot of quality in their opening match. True, Turkey was not the toughest challenge, but Portugal converted two opportunities to find the back of the net. The 2:0 score elevated Portugal above the Czech Republic into first place in Group A. Coach Scolari could not be happier about his sides start to the campaign.

On paper, Portugal is one of the biggest favourites in the competition. In the 2004 finals, they were shocked by Greece, losing the title to them in a penalty shootout on home turf. The memory of that loss is one they will hope to erase with a triumphant sojourn this year.

The team is made up of more than Cristiano Ronaldo. Their defence line was solid against Turkey – allowing almost no shots at their keeper. Pepe and Carvalho were coordinated. Their set-pieces makes them a threat. Furthermore, with one win in the bag they will be motivated and inspired to continue navigating a triumphant course through the Group stage.

Czech Republic (+370) Although the Czech Republic is technically the second favourite side in Group A, objectively, they are not as good as the Portuguese, so it comes as no surprise they enter as huge underdogs at +370 in this matchup.

Czech Republic, having won their opening match, albeit less convincingly, will be in high spirits coming into this match. But credence must be given to the Swiss as they played a solid match against the Czechs. Their defending was almost rock-solid, save for the one goal that sneaked by; their offense had many quality opportunities and save for a few nigh-misses the score may have been entirely different.

Unlike the depth on the Portuguese side, the Czech Republic’s tactic of relying on one man – Koller – will not be a winning strategy. In fact, it didn’t work against the Swiss either as mid-match the veteran was substituted. Their midfield is strong and their backline solid, guarded most importantly by Petr Cech. They lack firing power though.

Betting Verdict: The odds are one-sided with Portugal the clear favourites. Czechs are a good team and should not be underestimated. It is hard to tell whether technically superior teams will suit them better. What is certain neither team will want to take a loss in this match – the Czechs more so than the Portuguese. Key is defence. Bruckner is a defensive minded coach and he will make sure his side plays a cautious match, defending mostly and waiting for counterattacks.

Soccer Free Picks: I would not risk on Portugal for the win – although they are clearly capable of it. If you are an underdog pusher – then in 1996 the Czechs surprised Portugal with a Karel Poborski inspired lob that found the net – they may replicate that performance and go for the win tomorrow. In any case, taking the Czechs on the money line offers a much better payout. In any event, the best play in my opinion is the draw – at the very least it warrants a small stake. Spread and total bettors take the small amount of goals.

UEFA EURO 2008 betting at BetUS online sportsbook the premiere destination for the worldwide soccer betting

Putting $110 on Portugal. To many weapons for the Czech's to cope with in my opinion