Germany have yet to concede a goal from open play in the tournament but that proud defensive record is certain to be given a stern test against France. The fact that the Germans have notable injury concerns and Mats Hummels is suspended has seen the host nation backed into slight favorites for this one despite their defensive frailties that have been there for all to see through the group and knock out stages.
As the 90 minute lines suggest it is a devilishly tricky game to call but it is as difficult to imagine Didier Deschamps’ troops failing to score with the attacking threats they possess throughout their side as it is impossible to have confidence in their ability to keep a clean sheet. The French are the only team who have averaged over 2 goals a game and have three players in their ranks who are chasing the Golden Boot while the German’s have failed to score only once in 5 games.
Some shrewd judges have it pegged as a tactical battle but just because a game becomes tactical doesn’t mean it is destined to end goalless. Once more the odds makers have erred on the side of caution on the under 2.5 line and with OVER 2.5 available just shy of the 2.50 mark at time of writing that has to be the value play. The French will be far more adventurous than the Italians and that could open up this one early.
#BestBets – Germany vs France = OVER 2.5 GOALS
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