FOOTBALL TRADER BEN CLEMINSON TAKES A LOOK AT TODAY’S FINAL ROUND OF MATCHES IN GROUP C
ENGLAND’S goalless draw against Algeria was dismal enough, but it was the manner of the performance which was most disturbing and the squad will really have to pull together if they are to gain the win against Slovenia that is so desperately needed.
The Slovenians have made a fairly decent start to the tournament, but will be annoyed that they let a two-goal lead slip against the USA. They know that a draw will be good enough against England and they will surely set their stall out to frustrate Fabio Capello’s side.
These two countries have only played each other once, a 2-1 win for England at
Wembley last September, but there is a lot more at stake today and nerves will play a big part. The USA have qualification within their own hands and will be fairly confident of beating Algeria, so England must win and are a best-priced 1/2 with William Hill to do so.
Positive thinking England fans will remember the last time the team drew their opening two games at a World Cup they went on to make the semi-finals in Italia ’90. They won their third game against Egypt 1-0 that time and a repeat of that scoreline looks the right call at 11/2 with Paddy Power.
Slovenia will try to keep things tight and it wouldn’t be a surprise to see the match
goalless at half-time. It could therefore be worth backing the draw HT/ England FT double-result at 7/2 on Betdaq.
Sellers of goals have generally done very well at this tournament so far and with only one of these teams likely to qualify, a cagey game looks on the cards. Sporting Index are quoting goals at 2.5-2.7 and I would definitely be a seller at that price.
POINTERS…
Draw HT / England FT at 7/2 on Betdaq
England to win 1-0 at 11/2 with Paddy Power
Sell total match goals at 2.5 with Sporting Index