Bookies Blog

Yet again, the bookies payout as 20 wins for the favourites out of 30 matches results in Spain meeting Germany in the final on Sunday. Graham Sharpe from William Hill is quoted saying “It was the worst possible final we could imagine”. Spain finished off Russia last night with a convincing 3-0 at full time. They provided what seemed an easy victory confident in their superior statistics.

Such a decisive win has brought their odds down to 5/4 at Bluesq, Coral and Paddypower for The Final. In the mean time Germany’s odds have only slightly shortened from 5/2 (general) to 2/1 (Centrebet).

Germany and Spain are definitely two of the heaviest backed teams in the tournament, yet the bookies feel Germany can provide the best way out. After last night’s match, though, the Germans are going to have to take it up a notch in order to compete convincingly at Spain’s standard of play.

Half Time/Full Time – a Spain/Spain scenario here is favourite at 11/4 from Paddypower and 33/10 at Betchronicle, who seem to be offering the majority of best value odds at this tournament. However Draw/Spain catches my eye as good value at 47/10 on Betchronicle, it would mean a repeat of tactics from the Russia game, a wearing down of the opposition’s stamina with controlled one touch passing and then a series of aggressive attacks in the second half.

The odds for over 2.5 goals being scored in 90minutes are 6/5 (general) but Germany play a reasonably defensive game and its very possible they’ll look to take the lead from a trademark last minute goal, the best price for under 2.5 is 4/6 at Stanjames and Skybet. Its a tough call as Spain may change their play if Germany offer an early attack which could potentially result in a higher amount of goals.

Torres is set to be the first goal scorer at 11/2 Bluesq despite only one goal this tournament. To give him his due, he played very comfortably yesterday but he’s not good value at this price, instead I’d look up Guiza at 8/1 on Skybet.

For more Euro 2008 betting markets click here.