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Russia will start a string of World Cup preparation friendlies today against Slovakia, a team that failed to reach Brasil and looks ahead to the Euro 2016 qualification campaign.
Fabio Capello’s Russia had an easy time topping their WC 2014 qualification group which also featured the likes of Portugal and Israel. The russians relied heavily on their solid tactical approach, good defense and fantastic home record. Today`s hosts have not last at home since a 2-0 friendly defeat to Belgium in 2010! Russia played its last game in March, defeating Armenia 2-0.
Slovakia was off pace in the World Cup qualifying campaign, finishing miles away from Bosnia and Greece. The visitors are looking to improve for the Euro 2016 qualifiers and their latest performance were encouraging: 3 consecutive and convincing wins against Poland, Israel and Montenegro. Last time out Slovakia defeated Montenegro 2-0 on Friday.
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Team news & lineups
Both sides will treat this game seriously and are expected to field very strong lineups. It`s hard to predict the exact starting 11’s but they could look something like this:
Russia: Akinfeev – Kozlov, Berezutski, Ignashevich, Schennikov – Denisov, Shirokov – Faizulin, Samedov, Zhirkov – Kokorin
Slovakia: Mucha – Pekarik, Hubocan, Skrtel, Svento – Mak, Kucka, Hamsik, Weiss, Holosko – Jendrisek
Normally Russia should have this under control at home but the odds are very low and looking at Slovakia’s recent form a bet on the hosts doesn’t seem a good investment. Also, the russians might be a little of their pace considering that no player will risk injuries. I fancy the under 2,5 goals bet more, as Russia is well known for its defensive style and they should be able to impose their own rhythm on home court. Both sides have three under 2,5 matches from their last 5 and this looks like it should go this way as well. Russia to win to nil is a bet that also holds good value, but I am sticking with the safer outcome, also at good odds. My tip is under 2,5 goals, expect a tight, slow and rugged encounter here. Prediction: Russia – Slovakia 1-0.
Pick: under 2,5 goals
Odds: 1.85 @ Sbobet
Stake: 8
Possible profit: 6.8
Event date: 26 May
