>
>
England and France get their Euro 2012 campaign underway on Monday evening in what looks to be a fantastic encounter between two sides hopeful of going all the way in the tournament.
Looking at England to begin with, they have had a solid start under new manager Roy Hodgson with back to back 1-0 victories in their recent friendly’s.
Hodgson is likely to have his side well organised and difficult to beat which could set them up well for Euro 2012. They will be relying on a touch of quality in front of goal to win the match, something that Ashley Young and Danny Welbeck managed in the recent friendly’s.
The Three Lions have not impressed in major tournaments over recent years but with a new manager at the helm it is difficult to know what to expect.
England have certainly had their injury problems leading up to the first match with John Ruddy, Gary Cahill, Gareth Barry and Frank Lampard all ruled out of Euro 2012.
As for France, they look to be in great shape after a fantastic 4-0 win over Estonia last time out where they played some fantastic football.
Karim Benzema found the net twice in that game with one goal being one of the highest quality. Benzema has been linking up well with the likes of Samir Nasri and Frank Ribery and the three could cause a lot of problems for defences in the tournament.
Laurent Blanc has transformed the fortunes of France since being in charge, they have not lost a game since 2010. Blanc is building a young team that is very exciting to watch.
Much like England, France have not impressed in the last few competitions, however with expectations not as high this time round they could spring a few surprises.
Match Odds
France go into the match as slight favourites to take all three points. You can back them at 2.50 (6/4) with Bet365.
Despite England’s recent wins they know they will have to upset the odds to get off to the perfect start on Monday evening. They are being offered at 3.30 (23/10) with VC Bet to be victorious. A draw is available at 3.20 (11/5) with SkyBet.
First Goal-Scorer
Karim Benzema looks to be the most likely to get the scoring underway in the encounter with odds of 7.00 (6/1) with Paddy Power.
Danny Welbeck is one of England’s best chances to break the deadlock. You can back him at 10.00 (9/1) with William Hill.
Recommended Bet
Roy Hodgson’s men will be desperate to win this one and prove they mean business in the tournament. It could be a game with plenty of goals and a 3-2 win for England has odds of 51.00 (50/1) with Ladbrokes.
