Euro 2008 qualifiers

Israel V Russia

99% of English fans will be watching and cheering on Israel in this one. This game is make or break for both Russia and England as a win for the Russians will virtually seal qualification for Euro 2008.

Israel are out of contention so its very hard to see how motivated they will be for this one. Now usually the thought of putting one over Russia would be enough to motivate any team but theres has been whispers of "fix" all week. Personally im not convinced but i still think Russia should have enough quality to get 3 vital points.

Russia's away form
12/09/07 L 0-3 v England
06/06/07 D 0-0 v Croatia
24/03/07 W 2-0 v Estonia
15/11/06 W 2-0 v Macedonia

Russia have a fully fit squad to chose from, Akinfeev the keeper who was the only doubt, is back to fitness.


Israel on the other hand are playing only for pride. Its difficult to gauge just how up for this game the Israel team will actually be. Liverpool midfielder Benayoun sustained an adductor tear on Saturday and is definitely out. He will be a major loss in the middle of the park as Israel need his creativity going forward.

Israel Home Form
28/03/07 W 4-0 v Estonia
24/03/07 D 0-0 v England
15/11/06 L 3-4 v Croatia
06/09/06 W 4-1 v Andorra


Verdict
Theres lots of talk about the Israel team rolling over and letting Russia win but i dont see it being as clear cut as that. Im always a little weary whenever these type of match present themselves. On saying that, given the circumstances and that Russia have a full squad to chose from and a win will almost seal them a place in Euro 2008 i think they will do enough to win. The odds on the Russian win is priced up at about 1.5 but theres not enough value there for me. I think it will be tight and maybe 1 - 0 or so to Russia.
Draw at HT and the Russian win at FT is the pick for me here. I think Israel will try keep it tight at the back and it wouldn't surprise me if we don't see a goal until after the 70th minute.
Good luck.

PICK
Draw HT / Russia FT (x/2) ( 4.5 @ ladbrokes) 2 points