18th Jun 2014 | World Cup
Uruguay v England Tip: Scorecast Bet
Both teams lost on Saturday but the performances were highly contrasting with the future looking brighter for Hodgson's men.
Despite the negative statistics which tell us that only 8.7% of teams lose their first game and still qualify for the last 16, England can head into their crunch clash with Uruguay feeling confident.
The Three Lions played pretty well in their 2-1 defeat to Italy and their pass completion rate of 91% was their best ever in a World Cup match. The young guns of Sturridge, Sterling and Barkley offered genuine hope that better times are to come.
In contrast, Uruguay capitulated to a shock 3-1 defeat to Group D outsiders Costa Rica which saw them lose their discipline and suggested that time is catching up on an ageing squad. La Celeste struggled to fifth place in South American qualifying and if Suarez isn’t 100% then they should be beaten, possibly with something to spare.
Daniel Sturridge has now cemented himself not just in the England team, but perhaps as the number one striker. He took his goal superbly on the half-volley against Italy to take his tally to three in four for his country. After 24 goals in 33 games for Liverpool this season, the 24-year-old is the go-to man here.
Ladbrokes offer 45/1 on Sturridge scoring first in a 2-0 England victory and that looks like excellent value. We also have the added insurance of our money back if it all goes wrong and Uruguay win the match.
Odds correct at time of publishing: 15:40 18th Jun, 2014 but subject to change
