Euro 2016: England and Russia Play in the First Match of Group B

England was the only team that won all the games during the qualifying round, so the fans have high expectations from this Euro 2016. They could’ve been drawn against tougher opponents, but their group is far from being the easiest one. They will be fighting for the first place with Russia and that’s why the outcome of the opening match is so important.

A Mix of Experience and Youth Upfront

England looks very promising to those who check out their offensive lineup, which includes five talented strikers from some of the best Premier League teams. Hodgson has an impressive rotation to choose from and he’s expected to use a mix of young and experienced players in each game.

Vardy and Rooney are probably going to play in most games, but they are unlikely to spend 90 minutes at a time on the pitch. Sturridge, Rushford and Kane are the promising players that the manager will rely on in the early stages of the competition. They have proven their worth during the regular season and have the advantage of knowing their colleagues in the midfield very well from their clubs.

Back-To-Back Defeats for Russia

England is the team to beat in Group B and Russia would be perfectly happy with the possibility of finishing second. Splitting points with the favorites would be regarded as a triumph for the Russians, so the starting formation will feature five midfielders, four defenders and a single striker. Zenit St. Petersburg provides most of the offensive talent, and some solid defensive players.

Russia played only three friendly games this year and after winning at home against Lithuania, lost both France and the Czech Republic. That’s why punters should give England a vote of confidence and as long as the odds revolve around even value with bet365 Sports it is worth betting on them to win the first match.