| Euro 2008: Netherlands heavy favorite over Russia in Quarterfinals |
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| Written by Neil Jordan | |||||||
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Saturday, 21 June 2008
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 Russia, led by one of the best managers in the world, have not progressed past the UEFA Euro 2008 quarterfinal round of the European Championships since their runner-up finish in 1988. The Russians will have their hands full on Saturday at St. Jakob Park, when they take on the Netherlands, who most believe have been the best team in the tournament so far. BetOnline.com has the Netherlands –190 odds, Russia +420 odds, Draw +245 odds with the over 2.5 (-110) and under 2.5 (-130).The Russians finished second in Group D to Spain, and they have been very good at keeping their defensive shape with the exception of the Spain game, in which they were hammered 4-1. Russia is not a major offensive force, as Roman Pavluchenko has scored two of the Russians' four goals. But the aforementioned Hiddink has his side buying into the concept of team spirit, and it especially came through in the 2-0 win over Sweden which sent the Russians to the quarterfinal round in their last group match. The Netherlands cruised to the top of Group C by completely dismantling the competition, outscoring Italy, France and Romania by a combined score of 9-1. Wesley Sneijder and Robin Van Persie scored two goals each for the Dutch, who are looking for their third straight trip to the semifinals. The entire Holland team is soaring with confidence right now, and it is tough to see anyone stopping the inventors of “Total Football”. The Netherlands are –190 home favorites in this contest, and they will need to jump on the Russians early to unsettle them. Russia will probably look to hit the Dutch on the counterattack, but Holland have also been strong defensively. While the Russians will not go down easy, take the Netherlands to reach the semifinals with a victory on Saturday. Russia vs Netherlands – 2:45 PM ET Free UEFA Euro 2008 Tip: Netherlands For more props and odds on UEFA Euro 2008 as we progress through the postseason, as well as a look at our brand-new and revamped Casino, visit BetOnline.com for the most exciting experience in the sports betting industry.                        |
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