2004 European Championships

[coreyschucky]

Well the start of the tourney is upon us. I'm starting this thread on Wed with the first two matches of the tourney to be played on Saturday. I'll be posting my pics and my views on all of the matches. There will be two games a day for two weeks. A soccer fan's dream..LOL.

For those who are in the US and want to watch the games. We are screwed. Unless your willing to pay $180 for the package the only thing we will be viewing for free is five matches featured on Fox Sports World (Denmark vs Italy, Croatia vs France, Italy vs Sweden, Switzerland vs France and Denmark vs Sweden). The Quaters and Semis and Finals will all be aired on FSW but will be on 3 or 5 day delays.

This tourney features a few of the worlds best teams looking to finally prove to everyone that they are the real deal. All of the top teams face some sort of question mark as they enter the tourney. Can France get over the fact of their dissapointment as host nation of the World Cup in 2002 or can they get over the fact that their head coach is leaving them after the tourney. Can Portugal finally live up to they hype as the Golden generation of Portugal soccer and finally prove to everyone that they are the elite of the world. As Host nation they will have unprecedented pressure on them to prove their skill. Can Spain shed the title of a team that constantly underachieves in major tournaments. Can Holland finally play like a team or continue to dissapoint their home fans. What about Italy. They feature a few of the worlds best players but can a team that struggled in the Qualifiers can back to the top of their game and finally play like the team they are capable of. Here's everyone favorite team to bash England. Can Michael Owen and David Beckham finally prove the critics wrong. We'll definetly see in the first match as they face France. Can Germany get over two humiliating friendly losses to Hungary and Romania over the last couple of months. Can their porous defense step up in front of keeper Oliver Kahn. Which team will be this years dark horse. This tourney always features a team to come out of a group that no one expected. Will it be Sweden who gets the return of recent retired from International play Henrik Larrson. He has already payed huge dividends in warmups before the Championships. Will it be the young Czech Republic who feature one of the steadiest teams in the world. Can Croatia's young players take over the reigns over from their Golden Generation. What about sleeper teams like Greece who went 20+ matches during qualifiers and friendly's without losing. Then you've got a team like Denmark who's fully capable of making it a long way in the tourney due to an experienced international team. Russia will look to bounce back from a ravage of injuries and a dissapointing run in the 2002 World Cup. And finally there are two qualifying suprises in the Swiss who feature the most capped team in the Euro's and Latvia who is the biggest suprise of the entire tourney. Will one of those teams be capable on knocking off one of the giants. Well we'll find out this weekend as the games finally begin.


I'm still going over the first round matches for myself. I've already decided on two games one for Saturday and one for Sunday. Looking at the other match that will feature Russia vs Spain for Saturday.


BEST OF LUCK TO EVERYONE!!!!!

MAY THIS BE A GREAT TOURNEY!!!!

[coreyschucky]

Saturday June 12th:

Portugal (-200) Over Greece - 2 units (L) (Greece won 2-1)

History:

First let me start off by saying that no team that has ever hosted the World Cup or the European Championships have every lost the opening game of a tourney. I do admit their is unprecedented pressure on Portugal to not only win this match but to make a huge impression in this tourney. After Portugal's dissapointing World Cup appearance in 2002 they hired Brazilian Head Coach Luiz Fillipe Solari who lead Brazil to a World Cup Championships. He was brought to instill discipline which the Portugese Soccer Federation felt lacked in the team's training and games in the past tourneys. Scolari's tenure hasn't been as promising as people have thought it would be. They do have a record of 9-2-5 over the last two years but have only managed two wins so far under Scolari's reigns. Back in 2003 Greece faced Portugal in Portugal and managed a 1-1 tie versus them. Portugal did not have to qualify for the tourney due to being the host nation. Greece on the other hand was able to get out of one of the toughest groups with the likes of Italy and N. Ireland. Greece had a run of 20+ games without losing and went 6 games in qualifying without giving up a goal. Portugal is currently ranked 22nd in the world while Greece is ranked 35th.

Overview:

Greece features a very strong defensive unit and a strong goalie in Antonios Nikopolidis. Greece did get a bit of good news today as top striker Demis Nikolaidis said he should be fit for Saturday's match vs Portugal. Portugal enters this match with a lineup full of stars. From the likes of Under 21 Hero Portas in nets to the likes of Rui Costa, Luis Figo, Deco, Rui Jorge, Cristiano Ronaldo, Pauleta, Nuno Gomes and Fernando Cuoto. I could go on but there isn't a need. Portugal features one of the best if not the best midfield in the world. Portugal also has one of the most dynamic front lines in the world. I would expect Greece to try and play a defensive game in this match. I feel they will try and pack it in and look for counter attacks. Portugal should pressure heavily all game and I would expect them to control the play of the ball all game. Portugal should manage to score 2 or 3 goals in this game. Coming into the tourney they managed 7 goals in two friendly's over non qualifiers Lithuania and Luxemborg. Greece on the other hand has struggled coming into the tourney as they managed a 2-0 win over Lichtenstein and a 1-0 win over fellow tourney player the Swiss but were handed 1-0 defeat by Poland recently and a 4-0 beating by Holland. Anything but a victory in this match for Portugal will be a monumental defeat and will be looked at as a failure for them.


Good Luck to All!!!!

[coreyschucky]

I won't decide on the Spain vs Russia match on Saturday until Thursday or Friday this week. However I wanted to get on this game for Sunday before there is any more line movement.

Sunday June 13th:

Croatia (+122) Over Switzerland - 5 units (L) (Croatia and Swiss tied 0-0)

Well at least in the first leg of group play besides the favorites this is game IMO holds the most value. Switzerland was a suprise by winning a qualifying group consisting of Russia, Ireland, Georgia and Albania. Croatia managed to finish 2nd in a group that featured Bulgaria, Belguim, Estonia and Andorra. Croatia had to survive a playoff versus Slovakia to get into the Euro's. Coming into this year's tourney Croatia is ranked 20th in the world while Switzerland is ranked 47th. Croatia has just managed two solid victories over Slovakia and fellow Euro qualifier Denmark in Copenhagen. In that match Croatia dominated the first half before making a few substitutions in the 2nd to hang on 2-1. Switzerland comes into the tourney on what was originally a high but has been blasted by injuries and suspensions as they enter the first match. Switzerland faced fellow cup qualifiers Germany and Greece this year and they lost both by a 2-0 defeat and a 1-0 game. They also lost to Morocco this past year while struggling mightily to win 1-0 over Lichtenstein just the other day. This Croatia team is fairly young in terms of International play. They are the least capped team in the tourney while Switzerland is the most capped team.

Overview:

Croatia features a strong defense lead by Juventus Igor Tudor and Bayern Munichs Robert Kovac. They also feature three world class strikers in Prso (Monaco), Olic (CSKA-Moscow) and Klasnic (Werder-Bremen). The one problem for Croatia is there lack of play in the midfield. It is the one area of concern for head coach Baric. I think Croatia has been helped by the recent injuries to Swiss players Streller, Lonfat and a few other injuries. Switzerland IMO has a suspect defense but a strong midfield and foward line. Injuries have certainly hurt them as the list continues to grow as they prepare for the game. This game features both teams BEST chances to earn a point in the tourney as they are in a group that features England and France. I feel that Croatia's play coming into the tourney is at much better form then their Swiss counterparts. Croatia has a chance to be very competitive in this tourney and they could make some noise by possibly upsetting one of the top teams. Croatia enters the match very confident. I feel that there is excellent value in Croatia. I am worried about the tie in this match but I'll take a shot at very good odds that Croatia will outplay the Swiss.


Good Luck to All!!!!

[DocGambler]

Hey Corey,
I m with you on these games but have a couple of questions..
1. Which game do u like better portugal over greece or craotia over Switz? As far as a definite???

2. Being That it is the World cup...I know this may sound ignorant but can they still tie????Cause I hate losing because of a tie???
Thanks and goodluck

[coreyschucky]

Doc- To tell you the truth nothing is a definite especially in soccer and in major tournaments. I guess I would have to say Portugal only based on the trend and I think Scolari has provided the right discipline with Portugal. There is trememendous pressure on them that they come out and win. Anything less then a victory over Greece and Russia is a serious letdown for them. However Portugal has the history of being inconsistent at times and in major tournaments. These two teams met back in November of 2003 in Portugal and Greece walked away with a 1-1 tie. I do think Greece was in a different form back during that game then there in now. I feel Portugal will be ready for this match. As you can tell I'm fan of Croatia. I think they are the type of team that can do damage in the tournament. Young team but they feature alot of skilled players. According to the odds in this game. They feel that this has one of the better shots at being a tie. IMO this is a must play game based on the odds. As you can see i have a higher wager on them then the Portugal match. I felt it was a solid line for a team that is playing in much better form then their opponent. But once again this is a tourney and the Swiss got out of a tough group to get here so I can see a tie in this game. THE ANSWER TO QUESTION 2 IS YES THERE ARE TIES IN THE EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS. Once group play is over there are no ties. But based on the rules of most if not all books...All soccer bet are based on 90 minutes of play and added time due to injuries or stoppages. So even in the later rounds there will be ties based on the rules of your book. Definetly check them out. You can also see if your book has spread betting like Coratia -.5. Some books offer that not all. Best of luck to you in the tourney.

[365er]

any idea on this match France v England on sunday ? My book is offering a free bet for one paid bet.

[365er]

and what is the best website to get LIVE scores along with game stats especially # of corners, # of bookings etc

[coreyschucky]

365er- I'm still not sure yet on where to go with this match. I expect one of these teams to dissapoint there fans just not sure which one yet. Odds say this is a tight match and it should be. France hasn't given up a goal in over 7 matches and have been unbeaten in 17+. England has struggled with the diamond midfield which they used int he 3-2 lost to Japan last week. They switched to a traditional midfield in a 6-1 win over Iceland the other day so they will stick with that. I still would like to see what kind of lineup Erikkson will put out in the match and whether he will go with the more offensive Lampard or go with defensive Nicky Butt. Check back as I'll make my decision on Friday or Saturday for this game.

Sites for live scores:

www.livescore.com (http://www.livescore.com)
http://www.soccernet.com

The only site that I can think of that will offer the info on corner kicks and bookings would be soccernet as they will probably offer live commentary for each match since it's affiliated with ESPN. Kooora and LiveScore will only give you who scored and whether there was a red card issued.

The other site I know of that's good is called Kooora. But to access this site you must go through yahoo as they will translate the website for you. It's an arabic website so you need to go through Yahoo.

Sites for Stats:

http://www.soccerway.com
http://www.sportsnetwork.com
http://www.soccernet.com


If none of these fits what you need let me know and I'll try and dig up what your looking for.

Best of luck to you in the Tourney!!!!

[coreyschucky]

Also here's the official website for the European Championships. They will offer stats on all games so I'm pretty sure they'll have the info your looking for. Also some solid analysis and some good articles are featured on the site.

http://www.euro2004.com/index.html

[coreyschucky]

Bit of bad news on the Croatia front. They have most likely lost starting keeper Stipe Pletikosa for Sunday's match versus the Swiss. Pletikosa hurt himself diving in practice. Head Coach said he's doubtful for the match. Next in line is Tomislav Butina who plays for the Belgian club Brugge. He has had international experience where the 3rd string has yet to start for the national team. It was also made official that Igor Tudor will miss the match as well. He picked up a red card in the match vs Slovakia. Croatia had been prepared for his loss. Although it hurts I still feel the likes of Krasnic, Olic, and Prsao will be too much for the Swiss.

[365er]

thanks coreyschucky , I will check them out.

[coreyschucky]

Saturday June 12th

Spain (-165) Over Russia - 2 units (W) (Spain won 1-0)

Sorry for the short writeup on this one. Plain and simple Spain is the team that is in better form. Russia has struggled mightily during qualifying and there friendlies on the road. They were handed an embarrassing 3-2 lost to Norway on the road in which there holes were made clear. They are missing 3 key players in defense and the midfield. Spain's defense is certainly vulnerable without the likes of Salgado out for them. But even with a vulnerable defense they still feature a dynamic attack with the likes of Champions League leading scorer Fernando Morientes. He forms a lethal attack with Raul. Raul is one of the best strikers in the world but he just suffered through one of his worst seasons ever. Still a front two of Morientes and Raul will cause fits for a Russian defense that has struggled against weaker talent. Spain will also look to take advantage of Russia's midfield. IMO Spain should get by the Russians here. Spain will have some nice crowd support and they will look to get 3 pts here in match. Anything less than that is a letdown for them and will cause an uphill battle to qualify for the next round. Here's a preview from one of the sites I use.

PREVIEW-Soccer-Euro-Spain eye second title 40 years on

By Kevin Fylan

FARO, Portugal, June 11 (Reuters) - Spain need victory from their Euro 2004 debut against Russia in Group A on Saturday to avoid unwanted complications and make a convincing case for a first major title for 40 years.

Spain's only moment of glory came when they beat the Soviet Union to win the European Championship in 1964.


Since the group stage was introduced at the finals in 1980, they have only once managed to win their opening game, against Denmark in 1988, and the players are anxious to shrug off their reputation as slow starters.

"The first game is always the most difficult," fullback Carles Puyol said from the team's base in northern Portugal, close to the Spanish border. "We need to do well this time."

Spain certainly cannot afford a repeat of Euro 2000, when they lost their opening game against Norway and were lucky to sneak through with wins over Slovenia and Yugoslavia.

After taking on Russia, Spain face tricky games against Greece, who beat them during qualifying for the tournament, and Portugal.

The last thing the players want is to go into the Portuguese game in Lisbon with a place in the quarter-finals still in doubt.

"That would be very difficult," striker Fernando Morientes warned. "It's not just because of their quality but also because as the host nation they have every incentive to win.

"It would be better to resolve matters in the first two matches."

The return to form of Morientes since his loan move to Monaco should lift a Spanish side otherwise short of firepower.

Top scorer Raul has had a terrible season at Real Madrid, while the 20-year-old Fernando Torres, exciting prospect though he is, has yet to look convincing at this level.

Spain have at least remained free of serious injuries since Michel Salgado was forced to pull out, with just slight niggles for David Albelda and Ivan Helguera.

Russia, who as the Soviet Union won the first European Championship in 1960 and reached three more finals, have more to worry about after injury accounted for first-choice central defenders Viktor Onopko and Sergei Ignashevich.

Left back Dmitry Sennikov has a pulled thigh muscle but is expected to start, while playmaker Dmitry Loskov is nursing a leg injury.

Russia will also be without Yegor Titov who failed a drugs test after the first leg of the playoff against Wales and coach Georgy Yartsev is aware of the task his patched-up side face.

"We're facing a very confident and powerful team," Yartsev said. "Raul and Morientes are known worldwide and their midfielders are very good with the ball.

"We only have a chance if we play disciplined and highly organised football."

Probable teams:

Spain: 23-Iker Casillas; 5-Carles Puyol, 3-Carlos Marchena, 6-Ivan Helguera, 15-Raul Bravo; 17-Joseba Etxeberria, 4-David Albelda, 8-Ruben Baraja, 14-Vicente; 10-Fernando Morientes, 7-Raul.

Russia: 1-Sergei Ovchinnikov; 16-Vadim Yevseyev, 4-Alexei Smertin, 13-Roman Sharonov, 17-Dmitry Sennikov; 22-Yevgeny Aldonin, 15-Dmitry Alenichev, 10-Alexander Mostovoi, 7-Marat Izmailov or 5-Andrei Karyaka; 3-Dmitry Sychev, 9-Dmitry Bulykin.


Good Luck to All!!!!

[coreyschucky]

I just wanted to throw this stat out there for anyone who's looking at the games for this weekend. 58% of the 1st round matches in the last Euro Championships and the World Cup ended in a draw. Me personally I'm not a fan of the draw even though you get very good odds. But there are matches I am certainly looking at to play the draw. I just think there are certain factors to the three games I've played already that I preffered the side. Croatia and the Swiss have a very good shot at ending in a tie. I do think Portugal will get by Greece in a low scoring affair since I expect both teams to be somewhat tight. Spain can be drawn by Russia but I just think Russia lacks the punch and the defense to draw them in the match. Hey who knows there will be alot of pressure on these teams in tomorrows matches. Best of luck to everyone!!!!

[coreyschucky]

Let the Games Begin...Won't be around for Saturday's game cause I'll be stuck at work all day. I believe the kickoff times are 12:00 EST for Portugal vs Greece and 2:45 for Spain vs Russia. Hoping for two good results in that match. Just wanted to get in my lone Future Wager for the tournament. Not much of a fan of these plays. The only two I really like is the Czechs and Italy to win there groups. Those are the only two I feel that are worth it. Italy is actually the fave to win the group and are at - money so I'm not sure if I'll make that play yet. But I just felt there was good value for a solid team.

Czech Republic To Win Group D (+170) (W)

I feel it's solid value for a team that's already won convincingly over Holland 3-1 at home and tied in Holland 1-1. Czech's are at good form entering the tournament with Milan Baros showing excellent touch around the net. Both Holland and Germany have ? marks and both teams can be dissapointing. Czechs must beat Latvia in the opening match for this to have a shot. I think a tie is very realistic versus Holland and I would think they could get by Germany.


Good Luck to All!!!!

[QuickNick]

I see you are making post in 2004 European Championships and soccer I guess they are different? I don't know jack shit about any of it.

[coreyschucky]

Nick - yep keeping two different threads. The other thread is basically Club plays and International Friendlies. Today Kicks off the Start of the European Championships so I'll keep the two separate.


Just wanted to caution people over the Spain game. I'm on Spain but am wavering just a bit. Thinking of adding the draw line as well. From all indications it looks like Russia will pack in the defense and look for a draw out of the match. I still think Spain is the better squad and they should win this match. I'll decide at some point but I will most likely just stick to my original bet and hope Morientes or Raul will get one by the Russian defense.


Good Luck to All!!!!

[coreyschucky]

365er- I checked soccernet and they'll have the game info for you. They have a live match tracker that offers corners and bookings info. Good Luck!!!

[365er]

Thanks for that info. I will check that out.

Here are my bets for euro

12/06/2004 Spain v Russia
(Result in 90 Minutes) Spain
4/6 None To WON


04/07/2004 Euro 2004 Champs - Switzerland
(Team Total Goals) Under 2.5
10/11 None To Run

2 12/06/2004 Portugal v Greece
(Asian Handicap) Greece +1.0
33/40 None To Run WON

3 12/06/2004 Portugal v Greece
(Team Performances) Portugal Over 63 Points
11/10 None To Run LOSS


23/06/2004 Euro 2004 Champs - France
(Team Group Points) Over 6
11/10 None To Run

2 23/06/2004 Euro 2004 Champs - Sweden
(Team Group Points) Over 5
12/5 None


12/06/2004 Spain v Russia
(Team Performances) Spain Over 61 Points
11/10 None To Run LOSS

12/06/2004 Spain v Russia
(Total Goal Minutes) Over 130 Minutes
1/1 None To Run LOSS

[365er]

2-3 for the day. not bad. but lost the special bets. did fine with the match result bets. trying to keep the specail bets to the minimum.


now any recommendations on tomorrows games ?

[coreyschucky]

Damn Portugal. Figures they'll be the first host team to lose the opening match in Euro and World Cup History. Very dissapointing result for them and me. They are going to have a very tough time advancing now. Spain produced nicely with a 1-0 victory. Down for the day. Hopefully tomorrow will bring some better fortunes.

365er- Right now I'm just in big on Croatia. I wouldn't recommend that anyone go big on that match. Croatia is without there starting keeper and fullback. I do still think they manage to get one by them. Still deciding on the England vs France match. IMO that is screaming a draw but I do think France has the advantage. Going to take a closer look later this evening.

European Championships: 1-1 (-2 units)


Good Luck to All!!!!

[coreyschucky]

Going to wait on the outcome of the Croatia vs Switzerland game before deciding on the France vs England match. Leaning towards France or the draw still not sure. But Croatia was my biggest bet which I made a few days before the tourney. If I knew the injury outcomes on Croatia a bit earlier I might have hedged it a bit but I'll take my chances with what I think is the stronger team and the one that is in better form.

Good Luck to All!!!!

[365er]

took france -0.25

good luck to all

[coreyschucky]

Well this hasn't been the start to the Euro's that I was anticipating. Croatia outplayed the Swiss but couldn't manage a goal. They had a few terrific oppurtunities but failed to produce. At this point it doesn't matter about another unit loss so I'm adding France. I just think they'll outplay them in the midfield and front.

June 13th: 0-1 (-5 units)

ADD:

France (+106) Over England (W) (France won 2-1)


Good Luck to All!!!!

[coreyschucky]

Well very fortunate for Zinedine Zidane's two late injury time goals. France capped off a sensational comeback as they were outplayed the entire game only to have a final few excellent few minutes. Well definetly helps my day out a bit in the Euro's. A bit bummed at the Croatia draw. They should have won that match. On to tomorrow.

June 13th: 1-1 (-3.94 units)

European Championships: 2-2 (-5.94 units)


Good Luck to All!!!!

[365er]

Originally posted by 365er
took france -0.25

good luck to all

:yeah: :yeah: :yeah:

win is a win is a win...

very fortunate to hit this one today...

[coreyschucky]

Originally posted by 365er
:yeah: :yeah: :yeah:

win is a win is a win...

very fortunate to hit this one today...

365er - to say the least. We can thank David Beckham for the missed penalty shot. Then we can thank Zindane for for the two goals one on a fortunate penalty shot right before the final whistle. It was an unbelievable game. England dominated the first half but sat back in the 2nd. France took it too them and had countless oppurtunities. You can tell that England was playing for the draw and that is why they lost the match. We were very fortunate to get that one. Nice hit and Good Luck tomorrow!!!

[365er]

coreyschucky, any plays for today ?

[coreyschucky]

365er- finishing them up right now....I'll have them up in the next 30-40 minutes.

[coreyschucky]

Well it hasn't been the best of starts to the European Championships. Even record but down units. Hopefully today will rebound a bit. I like Sweden in the 2nd match but will wait a while and seee how the Italy match fares before deciding what to do with that one. Best of Luck to everyone!!!!

European Championships: 2-2 (-5.94 units)

Italy (-125) Over Denmark (L) (Italy tied Denmark 0-0)
Italy/Denmark Under 2.5 Goals (-154) - 2 units (W)

Overview:

Italy features three of the worlds best strikers in DelPiero, Totti and Vieri. Italy still however has the habit of being very patient and try and feel out there opponent. Italy enters the game with some high expectations for the tourney. Italy is fully healthy leading into this game. They do claim they will try and attack more in this match. They are still however going with the traditional attack of basically 3 fowards and 8 defenseman. Denmark on the other hand enters coming off a 2-1 loss to fellow qualifier Croatia. Denmark is without two of it's top players in Gronkjear (mother died) and Gravesen (suspension). Danes play a counter attack style and I wouldn't think it would change inthis match. The man to watch on the Danes side is Jon Dahl Tomasson. He will however be marked by AC Milan teammate Alejandro Nesta. So he should be familiar with him. Italy is solid in shutting down counter attacks. I expect this to be a tight match in the first half with Italy basically controlling the play. Denmark would have faired much better with Gravesen and Gronjkear in the middle. I think Italy takes that to there advantage. I see an Italy 1-0 or 2-0 type game. I don't think Denmark will score in this match. That's why i liked the Under as well.


Good Luck to All!!!!

[coreyschucky]

Got the Under bot lost Italy. Italy did not look good at all in the match. It was all Denmark all game. Italy seemed a step behind most of the contest. Playing Sweden still debating on the total. This could be a 0-0 game or it can very well be a 3-1 match. I think Sweden might be the only play. I think the closer score will be to the 0-0 game but I think Sweden will manage to score one in this match.

Update:

June 14th: 1-1 (+.75 units)

ADD:

Sweden (+120) Over Bulgaria (W) (Sweden won 5-0)

Two names to remember in this match. Larrson and Ibrahimovic. Both are as lethal as strikers come. Larrson is making his return to international soccer after a brief retirement from International play. Ibrahimovic is as technically sound as you will see out of a striker. He's tall good in the air and solid with the foot. With the return of Larrson these two have formed a deadly combination upfront to go with a very strong defense. Scandanavian teams play very good soccer and are always a tough team to beat. Sweden fits in that profile. They are definetly a dark horse in the tourney. Bulgaria is bringing a fairly young team to this match. They are no longer the golden generation that was featured in the last few Euro's and World Cups. But they did suprise there qualifying group by winning it. I still question there youth and there defense. I think they will put up a very good fight. They can be one of those suprise team but I just think Sweden has been playing very well of late and will look to continue here.


Good Luck to All!!!!

[ibaskin]

Good luck Corey. I'm going to tail you and jump on the Swedes too.

[coreyschucky]

Good Luck Ibaskin...Let's Go Sweden!!!

[coreyschucky]

Solid day. Sweden blew through Bulgaria winning 5-0. Two goals in the return for Larrsson and goals by Ljunberg, Ibrahimovic and Allback topped things off. On to tomorrow. Best of luck to everyone!!!!

Recap:

June 14th: 2-1 (+1.95 units)

European Championships: 3-2 (-3.99 units)


Good Luck to All!!!!

[coreyschucky]

European Championships: 3-2 (-3.99)


Czech Republic (-225) Over Latvia - 2 units (W) (Czech's won 2-1)
Milan Baros (Czech Republic) (+110) to score anytime (W) (Scored 1 goal)

First off Latvia is not as bad as people are making them out to be. Yes they are a novice in the world stage but they are talented and they can certainly play with the big boys. This game has a similar feel to the Portugal vs Greece game. Latvia can spring a suprise victory or even a tie. But I gotta think that a team as fundamentally sound as the Czech's are will get it done. With the likes of starring Milan Baros and 6'9'' Jan Koller make one of the worlds deadliest front lines. They aren't mentioned with the likes of the best but they are certainly among them. Both are averaging slightly over a 1/2 a goal in International competition. With the Worlds #1 player last year in Nedved Czechs have a guy who can control the play in the midfield. Czechs are fundamentally sound throughout the entire team. They pass well and make few mistakes. Latvia has some very nice talent but I think they lack the midfield and defense play. I have the Czech Republic winning Group D so in order for that to happen this game is a must win. Marian Pahars is a dangerous threat on Latvia but I think the Czechs will contain him. Not sure on the total cause this can be a 2-0 final or a 3-1 final. So I can see both things happening. I also took Milan Baros to score a goal. I think the Czechs get at least 2 in this game. I would think he would be one of them. He just finished one of his better club seasons and has been playing well on the world stage.


Good Luck to All!!!!

[ibaskin]

BOL Corey. I have a small play on this game. Don't like to lay so much juice... we all remamber when Senegal beat France in the world cup so anything can happen.

[coreyschucky]

Ibaskin- I agree. I was a bit hesitant at first too. Actually the game that made me wonder was Greece vs Portugal. But IMO Greece has a very talented team and Portugal is a very inconsistent team. Czech's are strong all around which should help them since they are a heavily favored team. I'm also looking for a bit of redemption as I had Latvia in the last friendly vs Azerbaijan and they tied 2-2 as they were able to tie it in the end on a late penalty shot. Yes I do remember the Senegal vs France matchup. But what was strange about that game which worked to the advantage of Senegal was that there entire team played in the French Premier League so that helped them immensly. Latvia only has a few players who play for major clubs. Pahars who plays for Southampton is there best player. Latvia has had some nice wins Over Turkey and a few others. I just think the Czech Republic is on another level. I just hope they play that way..LOL!!!

[coreyschucky]

Holland (+125) Over Germany (L) (Holland and Germany tied 1-1)
Holland and Germany Draw (+220) (W) (Holland and Germany tied 1-1)

Playing both lines in this game. Holland should win but they never seem to play a good game. Holland has as much talent as any team. But always dissapoint. Germany has had a really dissapointing year. They are struggling offensevily and defensively. Holland is struggling scoring as well even though they have RVN. Anyways sorry for the short writeup. I don't see Germany winning so I played both lines just looking for a profit in this match.


Good Luck to All!!!!

[365er]

took UNDER 2 goals at 9/5 odds. will try to hedge in LIVE if required

[coreyschucky]

Solid day accomplished everything I wanted. Got a nice comeback from the Czechs and a goal from Milan Baros. I also accomplished what i wanted in the Holland vs Germany match. I preffered the draw and that's what I got..LOL!!! Good Luck to everyone!!!!

Recap:

June 15th: 3-1 (+4.3 units)

European Championships: 6-3 (+.41 units)


Good Luck to All!!!!

[coreyschucky]

European Championships: 6-3 (+.41 units)

Still going over it a bit. This is what I've got for now on the Spain vs Greece match.

Greece/Spain Under 2.5 (-154) - 2 units (W) (Spain and Greece tied 1-1)
Spain (-175) Over Greece (L) (Spain and Greece tied 1-1)

These two teams met twice in qualifiers as they were paired in the same group. Greece won the group and split the two meeting versus Spain. Spain won at Greece 2-0 while Greece won at Spain 1-0. But in that 1-0 lost Spain basically outplayed Greece and failed to make a mistake that cost them the game. Both games went Under which makes me like it more. There is a very good shot to see a similar score like the Portugal/Greece match but I'll take my shot with two solid defensive teams. If it looks like it will go Over I will certainly hedge the bet in live betting. Greece plays a defensive game which they produce all there scoring oppurtunities on the flanks off counter attacks. I don't think the Portugal match is a true reflection of Greece. Yes they are a very good squad but Portugal handed them an easy victory. Portugal was shaky at best and really got outplayed. Spain on the other hand took care of business versus an inept Russia squad. Russia never really attacked in that game and Spain controlled the pace. Spain is however a bit nervous for this game. They are sitting star foward Fernando Morientes to try and provide some better chances up front with Torres in his place. A draw might not be a bad play either in this match. Both teams sit at top of the group with 3pts and a tie would put Greece in a great position heading into there next match with Russia. Spain on the other hand would like to seal the deal today with a win to move into the quarters. They face Portugal in the next match so they almost want to make sure they get a good result out of today's match. Once again I'll hedge this in live betting if It seems to go the other way. But I think Spain wins a 1-0 or 2-0 type game.


Good Luck to All!!!!

[365er]

goodluck corey.

I am on greece +0.75

[coreyschucky]

Thanks 365er. Smart move on the Asian Handicap. This game has a very good shot at being a tie. Greece has already said they would be excited over a draw. I think Spain has more to lose in the match that's why i played them. But there is a very good shot at the draw which makes your play look very good. BEST OF LUCK TO YOU!!!!!

[coreyschucky]

About 15 minutes left in the Greece vs Spain match. Spain has dominated the entire game till giving up Greece's lone scoring chance. Score is 1-1 and they are coming in on the 80th minute. Hedging the Spain bet. At this point both teams will want to come out with the draw. I just hope Greece can hold off the Spanish pressure and that Spain doesn't leave themselves open to a counter attack.

ADD:

Spain vs Greece To Draw (-200) - Live Betting (W) (Spain and Greece tied 1-1)


Good Luck to All!!!!

[coreyschucky]

Well thanks to the hedge on the draw in live betting I came out alright. A bit frustrated as Spain should have won the game. They dominated the entire match but on Greece's lone scoring oppurtunity they were able to convert. Still all in all I came out ahead. Be back in a little bit with my pick for the Portugal vs Russia game.

Update:

June 16th: 2-1 (+1.25 units)


Good Luck to All!!!!

[365er]

Originally posted by 365er
goodluck corey.

I am on greece +0.75


greece +0.75 :yeah:

adding russia +1

waited for the first game to finish and since it was TIE, now everyone is after Portugal and the odds on russia have improved.

good luck to everyone.

[coreyschucky]

365er- I'm on Portugal as well. Way too much in fighting going on with Russia. They sent home one of there most experience midfielders in Mostovoi the other day and are missing 3 defenders due to injury and a 4th to a red card the other day. Portugal should be over there stage fright. A bit nervous but I'm on Portugal agian. I hope they don't fuck me again!!!


Portugal (-200) Over Russia - 2 units (W) (Portugal won 2-0)

Definetly nervous about this cause Portugal has continued to struggle in major competitions. But so has Russia. Russia's failed to score I believe in the last 8 or 9 major competitions in the World Cup and the Euro Championships. In fighting on Russia has sent home one of there most expierenced midfielders in Mostovoi. Three key injuries to the back line before the tourney has already hammpered Russia's defense but a red card by one of it's other defensive members in the Spain match has another player out for the Russians. Russia struggled in competitions before this tourney losing to Austria, Norway and Bulgaria. Russia has struggled immensly on the road in International play. Now on Portugal what can you really say. They've been the biggest dissapointment so far. They played miserable soccer vs Greece in the first game. They blamed it on stage fright which i do agree with on some parts but you gotta show up in front of your own crowd. Deco will take over the playmaking in the middle from Rui Costa in this match. Deco was a substitute in the last match with others and they certainly left there mark on the game. Portugal really needs a bounce back game here. With Greece and Spain tieing that makes this game A MUST win for Portugal if they want to go into the Spain match with any shot of going to the Quarters. So i gotta go with the must win team.


Good Luck to All!!!!

[sam1979]

I luv Over 10 corners corners............:cool:

[coreyschucky]

Sam Live betting helped me in the last game. I hit the draw in the 80th minute at -200. Jumped to -275 a minute later. Definetly saved me.

Good Luck on the Corners bet...Looking at that one right now. But the only thing i see from that is it has to be a very offensive game from Portugal. Russia barely even had an attack vs Spain so I would think most of the corners would have to come from Portugal. GOOD LUCK!!!!

[sam1979]

OH O !

I thought avg corners scored in each game is *13

Man I should have avoided the bet.........:beer2:

[coreyschucky]

ADD:

Portugal/Russia Under 1.5 (+125) - Live Betting (L) (Portugal won 2-0)


Good Luck to All!!!!

[coreyschucky]

Solid day overall. Got nice wins from Portugal, Under 2.5 Greece and Spain and the draw in live bet for Greece/Spain. Unfortunately lost Spain ML and another live bet on Under 1.5 for Portugal/Russia. A goal in the 89th minute ruined that one. But all in all a very good day.

Recap:

June 16th: 3-2 (+2.25 units)

European Championships: 9-5 (+2.66 units)


Good Luck to All!!!!

[UteFan]

solid corey-are you a soccer buff or have you just started payingattention with EuorCup? I guess what I'm asking is how long you been playing soccer bets? Are you done with MLB? Tailed you yesterday and made nice profit with both picks, especially the draw!!

[coreyschucky]

Hey Ute nice to see you over here. Glad you cashed in on those yesterday. BIG TIME soccer fan. Probably my favorite sport. I have been paying a closer eye of late as we lead into the European Championships. I normally play the Premier Leagues throughout all the major countries. This is my first European Championships. I did have a chance to partake in the last World Cup. Some of the clubs I'm playing in the Norwegian, Finnish, and Swedish are very new to me. Never really played those leagues before. But I'm certainly learning about them. It's just something I love and something I know. I'm still betting baseball. Haven't really posted my pics lately. My posting record was pretty bad. Sticking to just one a day if that. It was a strange beginning so I'm not trying to take any chances by playing it all the time. By far my worst season so I felt it was time to just lay low with it. Anyways glad to see you here we need more people in this part of the forum. Good Luck on your plays UTE!!!!!

[365er]

Originally posted by 365er
greece +0.75 :yeah:

adding russia +1

waited for the first game to finish and since it was TIE, now everyone is after Portugal and the odds on russia have improved.

good luck to everyone.

lost russia +1. won greece -0.75

any thoughts on tomorrows game ?

[sam1979]

Tomm ..........I will surely take England !!

[coreyschucky]

365er - From the looks of it...FRANCE FRANCE FRANCE and more FRANCE. Also don't forget ENGLAND ENGLAND ENGLAND. Going over it now. But from the looks of things. Croatia will sit 5 starters as they are just looking ahead to play England for what they expect the game to decide who will finish 2nd and move on. They get back Igor Tudor and star foward Ivan Klasnic will start as well but they are losing 5 other players. According to some articles i read that might mean good news as they were dissapointing vs the Swiss. They are looking for the draw against France. But I watched them versus the Swiss and they weren't that creative. Last time these teams met was back in the 98 World Cup Semis and France won 2-1. This is not the same Croatia team. I fully expected them to win over the Swiss and for the most part they got outplayed at certain parts of the game. France will field a healthy squad with exception to Makaleke. France should win this game. Probably a 2-0 type score.

As for England it really all depends on whether they take care of business and forget there devastating lost to France in the final 4 minutes. They probably outplayed France for 85 of the 94 minutes. They played not to lose at the end and it cost them. England should do a much better job getting the shots on target against the Swiss then Croatia did. England's midfield should be able to control Yakin and the Swiss striker Frei. I was extremely impressed with the play of the Swiss goalie Stiehl. He made a few very impressive saves. But this game really comes down to is whether England is really over the lost to France. They are saying all the right things in the paper. I keep reading that they say there over the game and that they'll prove there point at the start of the whistle. If so then England wins this. I would love to be home to live bet this game. But i won't have the luxury. Most likely going with England.

Not sure on O/U's right now.

Good Luck!!!!

[coreyschucky]

Sorry no writeups on these. I'm having serious computer problems and it will most likely crash again at any moment. I posted just above some of my feelings on the matches last night. Here are my plays. Alot of juice so if I lose any it will definetly hurt. But I gotta give a big advantage to both favorites today. Good luck to everyone!!!!

European Championships: 9-5 (+2.66 units)


England (-200) Over Switzerland - 2 units (W)
England/Switzerland Under 2.5 (-143) - 1 units (L)

France (-225) Over Croatia - 2 units (L)
France to win Nil (+138) - 1 units (L)
France/Croatia Under 2.5 (-154) - 1 units (L)


Good Luck to All!!!!

[ibaskin]

BOL Corey. I'm on those game too and the UNDER on the England game. GO ENGLAND!!!:yeah:

[UteFan]

Gimme Friday's corey!!! J/K.

[Queen of Football]

Posting for Corey, He is having computer problems and wants you guys to know it may be Tuesday or Wed.

Queen :cool:

[coreyschucky]

European Championships: 11-9 (-2.11 units)

Well my real record is a bit better then my posted one. I wasn't able to post my Euro plays while my computer was down but it's been a fairly good tourney. But it doesn't really matter since it wasn't posted. On to tomorrow's Semifinal match. Not sold on the side but I will take my shot with the home team. My bigger play is on the under. Best of luck to everyone!!!!

European Championships - Semifinal

Portugal/Holland Under 2.5 (-154) - 3 units (L) (3 goals total)
Portugal (+162) Over Holland (W) (Portugal won 2-1)

Double dose on this game. I like the Under alot more then the side. So far Under is 3-1 in Portugal games (remember just in 90 minutes of play) while the Under is 2-2 in Hollands games. In there last three meetings there were 2 unders and 1 over. In 2003 they tied 1-1 2001 2-2 tie and 2000 Portugal won 2-0. The first semi features two teams who are steadily improving throughout the tourney. First off for the Under I feel that both teams will play close to the vest. This game reminds me alot of the Spain vs Portugal game in which Portugal won 1-0 and also the Holland vs Sweden game in which they tied at regulation 0-0. Both teams will have chances in this match but I don't see either team giving up too many goals. I feel at worst there is a 1-1 draw at the end of 90. I don't see the offensive output in this game as I've seen in others. Portugal should play pretty tight with this much pressure. As long as no goal is scored within the first 20 minutes I think the under should be fine or at least I hope. I felt the same way in the Czech/Holland game but two quick goals by Holland within the first 20 messed that up.

Now for the side. I really think this is a flip of a coin. I felt one of the semis would go to PK's and I certainly don't think the other semi will get out of the first 90 minutes. This one has the best chance for OT and PK's. With that being said I'm still playing Portugal. I guess part of it is they are home and the fact that Holland will be missing there Captain top defensive player Fredrik De Boer who is out with torn ankle ligaments. Only Robben and Ruud Van Nistelrooy have been impressive IMO on Holland. They have yet to receive a goal from the midfield which I think will be a problem for them. It looks like Nuno Gomes will start out front for Portugal even though Pauleta is back from suspension. Holland wins the matchup up front. But in the midfield I give a huge advantage to Portugal's Deco, Figo, Ronaldo, Maniche and Constinha. I think that is where they control the game and where they win it. Defensively a slight advantage goes to Portugal because of the absence of De Boer on Holland. Advocaat has a couple of options to replace him but has yet to decide. Keepers are even IMO although alot of people have been very impressed with the play of Van De Saar on Holland. To me the deciding factor will be the crowd. Portugal has been overjoyed with there teams appearance in the semis. Last time there was this much pressure on Portugal was versus Greece and they failed miserably. I think they got the jitter bugs out of the way in that match. Scolari has pushed the right buttons at times on the Portugal side. There is some dissention on the Holland front even though they've managed to get to the semis. It is said that players are not happy with there coach and they are still learning there new system. Sticking with the host nation in this game.


Good Luck to All!!!!

[UteFan]

I'll bite on those two-thanks Corey!!!

[Quadry]

The o/u has dropped to 2. I will have to see if it will go back up, highly doubtful. I do like Port. in this one today. I see a 1-0 game.

[Horatio]

which allowed me to win my first, and perhaps only soccer bet ever...and balances out the unit I lost today on the Cards.Now if I had only taken Ancic...damn...:yeah:

[coreyschucky]

Horatio - congrats on Portugal glad it hit for you.

It really sucks to lose a bet on a freaking OWN GOAL. Portugal came through but to lose the Under that way with more on it sucks.:bang:

Recap:

Semifinal: 1-1 (-3 units)

European Championships: 12-10 (-5.11 units)


Good Luck to All!!!!

[coreyschucky]

European Championships: 12-10 (-5.11 units)

I just want to say anytime I've gone larger on a game on a posted play it's lost. I'm hoping this trend bucks for tomorrow's 2nd half of the Semis.

European Championships - Semifinal

Czech Republic (-162) Over Greece - 4 units (L) (Greece won 1-0)

I'm not about to start saying any names on the Greece side. Too many syllables and I'm bound to mess them up. Greece has been one of the most impressive sides and suprises in the tournament. Any team that beats Portugal and France deserves a boatload of credit. With that being said I was a backer before the tourney of the Czech Republic and I'm not about to jump off the bandwagon now. Both coaches have done absolutely marvelous jobs in this tourney and both are highly sought after coaches. Greece features Regghael (German) who has brought the German philosophy of strong defense with appropriate counterattacks. That style fits this team to a glove. Buckner has pushed the right buttons with the Czech side. Down 2-0 to Holland he made a couple of subtle moves which in turn helped his team win 3-2. The Czech Republic have been an offensive machine in the tourney . With the likes of Baros(Leading scorer in the tourney), Nedved (voted worlds best player), Smicer and the large and in charge Jan Koller (6'9"). The Czechs are the only team so far yet to lose a game coming in 4-0 with wins over Holland, Germany, Latvia and Denmark. Now Greece has been able to contain most teams offenses in the tourney. But I really feel all the teams that they faced were all beatable teams and none with the exception of France are as good or are playing as well as the Czechs. France certainly wasn't impressive at all in the tourney and really Portugal hasn't been either despite there trip to the Finals. The Czech's IMO have the most complete team in the tourney. They really don't have a weak link on there side. There is a conspiracy theory like always when it comes to soccer that there will be the Euro hosts vs the Olympic hosts in the final. I've seen alot of articles written that this game will go to ET or PK's. I just don't see it. The Greek backline have done an amazing job but I don't think they will suprise the Czechs midfield or frontline. I'm riding the Czechs pretty hard in this match. They are the favorites out of the four semi teams to win it and I don't see why not. According to a ranking service I use the Czechs come in #1 in the world and I don't see why I shouldn't play them in this match. I just hope the Greek Gods don't mess this up for me. C'MON CZECH REPUBLIC!!!!


Good Luck to All!!!!

[coreyschucky]

European Championships - Final

Portugal/Greece Under 2.5 (-175) (W) (1 goal scored)

This is the only play I'm making for the championships unless I see some live bets I like. This play is to finish slightly ahead for the tourney. My posted record isn't great but I had a pretty good week while I was out with computer problems. I'm down 1.75 units so looking to finish up a drop.

Now for the game. They met in the first game of the tourney. Greece won 2-1 but 2 out of the 3 goals in the game were misplays. I don't really expect that to happen here today. Greece uses the German philosophy of Defense and CounterAttacks. Both teams are expected to play a tight contest where they give little up offensively. Greece has been able to shutdown the offensive monsters of France and the Czech Republic. I think this game will play out to a 1-0 type game. I think it has a very good shot to go to OT or PK's. Laying off the side cause I've yet to win a game vs Greece this tourney. I would play Greece since I do think they come away with the victory in this one. But I'm sticking with the Under. Best of luck to everyone!!!!! C'mon Under!!!!


Good Luck to All!!!!

[ANGELZ]

nice call man