Sweden vs. France
Betting Prediction: Over 2.5 Goals (June 19th 2012)
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I won with the French in their last game, a 2-0 victory over Ukraine. Another victory here won’t surprise. France (1-0-1) is arguably the most talented team in Group D; Sweden (0-2) is arguably the least. However, given the situation, I feel that the ‘over’ is providing us with even better value.

Regardless of what happens here, Sweden knows it will be going home. With zero points through two games, the Swedes can’t overtake either England or France, both who currently have four. Knowing that, the Swedes may throw caution to the wind a little. They have no pressure on them and scoring goals and salvaging some pride should be a priority. The Swedish offense has been able to score, tallying three goals thus far.

Stopping goals has been an entirely different matter, however. Through two games, the Swedes have allowed a whopping five scores. Even Ukraine managed two against them – and Ukraine barely got a chance against France. Clearly, this is a suspect defense.

France has scored just three goals thus far – but easily could have scored more. They dominated against England but managed only one. They were even more dominant against Ukraine. However, the Ukrainian goalie made some key saves while the French also rang another shot off the post. Facing this porous Swedish defense and knowing they want to better England’s score against Ukraine to avoid meeting Spain next game, the English should find the net of the back, if not a few times. Consider the Over 2.5 goals option. -Ben Burns