Greece v Russia Tip

I think Russia have too much quality for a workmanlike Greece side and they should win with a degree of comfort on Saturday night.

As always, the puzzle to solve is how to extract value when backing the favourites. The orthodox bet on Russia to win is a best price 5/6 (BetVictor) and I’m always reticent about taking shorter than evens money in these scenarios. Alternatively, I think this is a good time to back Dick Advocaat’s side to lead at half-time and full-time at best odds of 7/4 with Bet365.

Russia have already proven to be one of the tournament’s fast starters. 2-0 up inside 24 minutes against Czech Republic, they were also ahead at the interval against Poland. They may have let that lead slip against the co-hosts, but that was down to a wonder goal that you can’t legislate for.

The Greeks are diligent, but one of the more limited teams in Euro 2012. I can’t see how they will contain the likes of Dzagoev, Arshavin and Shirokov. If they fall behind quite early on, surely the task of coming back will prove beyond them this time.

Russia will want to win to ensure they finish top of Group A. That would likely keep them apart from Germany in the quarter finals which must be an ambition. That drive should see them in front before half-time and keep them there till the end.