Italy v Wales Betting tips — Manuel Locatelli fires Azzurri into knockout stages

It may only be early days, but Italy are already beginning to look like serious contenders. So far, they have been a revelation at Euro 2020. If thrashing Turkey 3-0 wasn’t impressive enough, they followed that up with another blistering display against Switzerland, chalking up another 3-0 victory to make serene progress into the last 16. Mancini’s calvary oozed panache and pace, and the Swiss couldn’t live with them.

Manuel Locatelli underlined a terrific display with two goals, while Ciro Immobile was also on target, despite squandering a few chances. Italy have now extended their unbeaten run to 29 games, and they have also gone nearly 1,000 minutes of competitive football without conceding.

Gianluigi Donnarumma was rarely tested, but on the rare occasion he was called upon, he answered the question superbly with a double save. The only concern was that of Giorgio Chiellini, who was forced off with a suspected hamstring injury, although it is unclear whether he will be ruled out against Wales. Nevertheless, Italy have already put their rivals on notice with some terrific performances. Italy have been flawless to date, and they are priced at 12/25 to beat Wales, which would see them top Group A with maximum points.

Wales, meanwhile, have come into their own. On Wednesday, Wales claimed their first victory of Euro 2020 with a 2-0 win over Turkey. Robert Page’s men barely put a foot wrong, and at times, they ran Turkey ragged. Gareth Bale and Aaron Ramsey sparkled as Wales came to life under the night skies of Euro 2020’s eastern outpost.

Bale and Ramsey summoned the spirit of Euro 2016, where the Welsh reached the semi-finals of the tournament. As things stand, they have all but booked their ticket to the last 16 of Euro 2020. Wales have a much better goal difference than third-placed Switzerland, but can Page’s men defy the odds and beat Italy in Rome on Sunday? Wales are at a tempting 7/1 to pull off their own Italian job.

Switzerland v Turkey Betting tips — Senol Gunes laments Turkey’s dismal performances

Turkey may have had their work cut out against Italy and Wales, but their performances to date have been abject. Five goals conceded, and none scored in two games has been a dreadful return for a country that previously finished third at the 2002 World Cup.

Gunes’ men were overpowered against Italy and Wales, and they are destined to finish with the wooden spoon in Group A. Speaking after the defeat to Wales, Gunes said: “I don’t remember us making so many errors in passing, ever.” The error-strewn display has contributed to their downfall, and all they have left to play for is pride. So, it will be interesting to see if Turkey can notch up a win or go with barely a whimper.

Switzerland, meanwhile, haven’t been as woeful as Turkey, and had they held on against Wales, well maybe it might have been a different story. Four of the best third-placed teams will qualify for the last 16; however, Switzerland’s current goal difference (-3) may not necessarily help their cause.

However, Breel Embolo did catch the eye against Wales, and he can leave the tournament with his head held high if the Swiss bow out at the first hurdle. Switzerland are 3/4 to see off Turkey in their final group game.

Portugal v Germany Betting tips — Records tumble after Cristiano Ronaldo’s late show

Appearing at his fifth European Championship Finals is an impressive feat in itself. However, Cristiano Ronaldo also shattered Michel Platini’s goals record. Ronaldo and his Portugal teammates looked like they were going to be frustrated against Hungary, but the reigning Euro 2016 champions found a way to secure the win.

After showing composure from the penalty spot for his first goal, Ronaldo added a second in stoppage time. He shifted the ball past Hungary’s goalkeeper Peter Gulacsi, tucking the ball home with his left foot for his 11th Euro goal. Portugal shrugged off any fears in front of a 60,000-capacity crowd in Budapest, and it’s clear that they will be a force to be reckoned with.

However, they will be coming up against a wounded Germany, who were far from their best against France on Tuesday. Joachim Low’s charges succumbed to defeat after a Mats Hummels own goal. It was disastrous for Hummels, who was recalled for Euro 2020 after previously been told by Low his international career was over. Karim Benzema also had a goal ruled out for France. For Germany, their clash with Portugal is a must-win game. They are trading as the marginal favourites at 7/5 to keep their Euro 2020 hopes alive.

Hungary v France Betting tips — Paul Pogba on high after German masterclass

Could there be another masterclass coming from Paul Pogba? While the midfielder has struggled to produce on a consistent basis for Manchester United, he feels at home on the international stage. Against Germany, Pogba turned in an all-action display, and he was named UEFA’s ‘star of the match’ after France’s 1-0 win over Germany.

He showed flair and vision, and it was his wonderfully lofted pass with the outside of his boot that led to the only goal of the game. The 2018 World Cup champion has always been hungry, and Pogba admitted Germany’s defender Antonio Rudiger took a little bite. He said: “I think he nibbled at me a little bit, but we’ve known each other for a long time.”

How will Hungary manage to thwart the threat of France? Against Portugal, they provided stubborn resistance with Gulacsi pulling off some fantastic saves. However, France can carve teams open at will. Hungary will have to stifle a side that has grit and guile in midfield, as well as a cutting edge up front. Hungary’s stay at Euro 2020 could be short-lived, and they are 21/2 to stun France on Saturday. But if they did pull it off, it would be one of the biggest shocks in European Championship history.

Spain v Poland Betting tips — When will the real Robert Lewandowski stand up?

Poland will be desperate to make amends after slumping to defeat in their opening Group E game against Slovakia. What was noticeable was that Robert Lewandowski, who scored 48 goals for Bayern Munich last season, barely had a sniff all match. This was a testament to how well Slovakia played. And wouldn’t it be amazing if Poland could upset Spain?

The tiki-taka style of Spain is what we are accustomed to, but now they seem to be taking more opportunities to cross the box. If only Alvaro Morata could stick the gilt-edged chances that come his way. Spain were held to a draw against Sweden in their opening group game, but if they bring their finishing boots on Matchday 2, they should secure three points. Indeed, La Furia Roja are 7/20 to see off Poland.