Wales meet Russia in Toulouse on Monday evening and Will Burns thinks Gareth Bale and co. have enough to advance in the next round.
Monday 20th June 2016 – 20:00 BST
EURO 2016 – GROUP B
RUSSIA v WALES
In basic terms, for the chances of progression, Wales need at least a point in this game to be in with the possibility of being one of the strongest third-placed teams to advance. A win would see them progress for sure, but against a tough Russian team who themselves could claim a qualification place with a win, this is going to tough for both sides to find the victory.
The wind has been blown up the skirt of Gareth Bale, with superlatives being over used for him in the tournament so far. It is true, he has scored two goals in as many games however, the goals were nothing to write home about. Both free-kicks were both hit well, however the placement was extremely poor as was the goalkeeping for the opposition. Although to give him credit, if anyone is going to score or create for Chris Coleman’s side today… It is Gareth Bale.
Russia have some goals in their locker with Artem Dzyuba and Oleg Shatov and today would be a fine day for those two to get themselves off the mark. When looking at this game’s history, Wales have never ever beat the Russians but the boys from the Soviet States need to go for the win today and due to the lack of speed in their defence, we could see some goals.
Wales have scored two of their three total goals in the tournament so far before half-time so I feel that looking at the Over 1.5 First Half Goals market is great way to make a profit in this one. Priced up at 3/1 at Bet365 is very tempting and apart from a Bale anytime goal, I cannot confidently select anything else in this tough to predict encounter.
If you’re betting… good luck!
TIP: Gareth Bale – Anytime goalscorer (2.65 at 888Sport)
TIP: Over 1.5 First Half Goals (4.00 at Bet365)
