Euro 2008 - Switzerland v Czech Republic

The least spoken about major football tournament in recent history kick-offs today in Basle as Switzerland take on the Czech Republic. Lack of any home nation teams has meant a huge lack of interest in these islands, although things will surely pick-up once the action is underway. Let's face it, most of the players are very well known to us and the games are being played in our time zone. It's not even as if there is any other sporting distraction.

Now is the time to place a bet on the outcome for a bit of added interest. Several weeks ago Spain were appealing very strongly on account that they must come good sooner or later and in Torres they have probably the most un-sung (relatively speaking) strikers in the game today. I was hoping that there might be some value in terms of the price available for sleepy Spain. However, I was wrong. Spain have been tipped by practically everyone who has had anything to say about this competition and as a result their odds have shortened to second favourite pricing of 11-2. Being a near favourite for this competition has also been something of a Jonah in previous years. The fact that Greece are the holders speaks volumes on this front and remember Denmark winning it prior to that?

No, for me the focus must be on someone further down the list who will provide a good value bet, even on making the final. Odds here are obviously lower but Croatia at 5-1 and Czech Republic at 13-2 look tempting. Russia are way out at 14-1 for reaching the final which represents great odds for a long shot. Croatia should qualify from their group if they can outpoint Austria (tournament outsiders) and Poland. Germany are their group threat but I believe Croatia can compete here. The Czech Republic have to contend with Ronaldo's Portugal but will be expected to overcome Turkey and Switzerland.

So, I am going to punt for Croatia and the Czech Republic to make the final. If they can avoid each other en route, a final between them would provide some eastern European spice and a reasonable return. .