Despite the accusations of fraud, and news that Cristiano Ronaldo may not stay at Real Madrid, the Portuguese star says that he is totally focused for today's match against the host country team. In their Confederations Cup opener, a late header by Mexico's Hector Moreno gave them a 2-2 draw. Today against Russia, Portugal will need to play well if they want to avoid another upset like the one in their friendly match against the Russians on November 14th of last year in which Portugal lost 1-0.
Russia will be a very tough team to beat today, as they are very close to qualifying from Group A, after they beat New Zealand in their opening match. Fernando Santos, Portugal's coach, whom led them to victory in last year's European Championships understands that they have a tough match ahead of them but is convinced that they will prevail. He related, "don't forget that most of these players here were part of the most brilliant history in Portuguese history just a year ago, we should not forget that and so I trust them 100%."
It should be an excellent match, as many of the same stars from last year's European Championship team are playing for Portugal in today's match. Expect Portugal to pressure the Russian goal early and often with the precise and creative striking of Ronaldo. He is backed by so many world-class players that the Russian defense will have a lot on their plates. The odds point to a Portugal victory today in Moscow, but if the home squad takes the match, profits for punters betting on Russia would be excellent.
Confederations Cup Odds
bet365 Sports are in favor of a Portugal win, posting odds in their favor at 1.90, while the Russians are at 4.50. There will be Live In Play markets throughout the match, as bet365 Sports offers interactive betting for all Confederation Cup matches.