France v Portugal
It’s over 30 years since Portugal last beat les Bleus, who have tasted victory in their last seven meetings. Although Portugal are given a big boost by the return of Deco to the midfield, the French have got their tails up and have been made favourites to win by 0.3 to 0.5 goals. Old hands (or should that be legs?) Zidane and Viera have both impressed, along with new blood in the shape of Ribery. He’s not a goalscorer, but his quick brain coupled with quick feet has provided some essential creativity.
France’s weakness lies at the back. Makelele has not looked his best, and as ever Barthez has caused some drama while flapping at high balls. Fortunately there’s not much height in the Portuguese front line; Pauleta is the main threat backed up by Maniche and Deco. Pauleta’s Goal Minutes are priced at 9 to 12 minutes, the same as Zidane. These both look low compared to Henry’s spread of 19 to 22 minutes.
Again, it will be a tight game - France have conceded two goals so far (one was a penalty) to Portugal’s one goal, so Sporting Index has set another low spread of 2.1 to 2.3 goals in the match.