The fourth day of the EURO 2020 brings one match from Group D and two from Group E. Even though many would say that this is one of those days with a bit lower intensity, we can’t agree with that claim. Apart from Spain, there aren’t any favorites for winning the title, but all other teams are determined to give 100% of their abilities to secure the advance to the knockout stage. Stay with us and read BetXChange’s preview for EURO 2020 Matchday 4.
Scotland vs the Czech Republic
These two sides will try to beat the odds and push out Croatia from the projected second seed in Group D. However, they would need to win the opening match and have three points when coming into the second round.
Scotland is playing at home, and that should be a big plus for this side. They’ve reached the EURO following a penalty shootout against Serbia in Belgrade in the playoffs. Tartan Army is a hard-working side, with several very good players, like Andy Robertson and Kiernan Tierney, forming a fantastic left flank. Scotland plays tough football without too many goals in competitive matches.
Meanwhile, the Czechs are one very interesting unit. They oscillate quite a lot and record results in waves. The most recent haven’t been very encouraging – losses to Wales, 1-0 and Italy, 4-0, before a triumph vs. Albania, 3-1. Six of their last 10 games all ended with just one side scoring. Unlike in the previous years, the Czech Republic doesn’t have superstars.
Our pick here would be under 2.5 goals, because of high stakes. Neither side would like to lose it, and they will both be cautious.
Pick: Under 2.5 goals 0.55 BetXChange
Poland vs Slovakia
The opening match of Group E put together Poland and Slovakia, two neighboring countries. We need to say right away that they didn’t shine while preparing for this tournament, but still have a high dose of confidence.
Poland posted one win, one defeat, and three draws. In those five games, the only one didn’t saw scores on both sides. That is because they have a pretty shaky defense and a world-class striker, Robert Lewandowski, who covers up all their mistakes. At one point last year, the Poles played wonderfully, but after that, had some slips against top teams. They didn’t disappoint, but also didn’t amaze on the other hand.
The Slovaks are without a defeat in the latest five matches, winning once and recording four draws. But looking at the rivals, we need to say that it is a disappointing stretch because they couldn’t defeat Malta or Bulgaria, who are among the worst teams in Europe. This unit plays a defensive-minded football, with not too many goals (seven in 10, under 2.5) trying to defend its net first, waiting for the rival’s mistake.
Poland can’t lose this game. They are a better team, and not winning three points would be a major hit for Lewa and the friends.
Pick: Poland Wins 0.44 at BetXChange
Spain vs. Sweden
We are terribly sorry for not having Zlatan Ibrahimovic at EURO. One of the best players in recent decades, picked up an injury and won’t be able to play, which is a massive handicap for Sweden. As for Spain, they are starting a new chapter in their history, having a completely new team, without any player from the glorious generation that won two EUROs and the World Cup back in 2010.
Luis Enrique changed the whole identity of the Spanish team, upgrading their tiki-taka tactics. They don’t have superstars anymore, but the quality of their play is still the same. Just remember their 6-0 win over Germany. The Spaniards are fantastic when having the ball in their feet, and their players have the best technique in the championship.
Sweden posted five wins in a row, with just one goal allowed, but against mediocre opponents. Even though, their morale is high, and they aren’t going to back down against any rival here. They don’t have Zlatan, but Emil Forsberg is there, one of the most creative midfielders in Europe. Blagult is a physical and hard team, without too much creativity we need to add.
Spain is the favorite, and they should win. We do respect Sweden, but still, the Red Fury is our pick here.
Pick: Spain to win 0.45 BetXChange
