posted June 25, 2008 at 18:47 in Soccer Articles

Now we know in the online soccer betting community that Germany is in the final of UEFA Euro Cup. So who will earn the right to duel against them in Sunday’s Euro Cup finale. Will it be powerhouse Spain who from the start of the tournament looked indomitable on paper or will the Gus Hiddink inspired Russia cause an upset to negotiate a premiere position in Europe’s most coveted soccer championship? Here is a look at the UEFA Euro cup soccer odds available at BetUS.com.

UEFA EURO CUP Semi-final Soccer Odds:

Spain vs. Russia

Spain -½ +105 +105 Over 2 -130 Over 1½ +135 Under 1½ -165

Russia +½ -125 +265 Under 2 +110 Under ½ +150 Over ½ -180

Draw +230

Analysis: This is the second time during the course of this championship event that Spain and Russia step onto the same pitch. In the opening match of Group D, Spain delivered a 4:1 drumming to Russia and continued its perfect performance through the group stage. In comparison, Russia’s opening humiliation was the last they suffered as they went on to beat titleholders Greece 1:0 and Sweden 2:0.

The much-anticipated quarterfinal between Spain and Italy was a lack lustre affair against Italy, which ended in a penalty shootout. Russia dominated Netherlands in their quarterfinal – a team that was very much favoured to advance into the semi-final. Instead a Pavlyuchenko inspired squad delivered the 3:1 coup de grâce.

Soccer Betting Verdict: So what can we learn from the progress of both teams through the championships? Spain has delivered on its pre-championship favoritism – albeit produced a rather boring match against World Cup champions Italy. Russia on the other hand, a team that just narrowly squeaked into Euro Cup qualification, surprised most to reach the final four. As the second Cinderella story of the championships, will they go one better or will they suffer the same fate Turkey enjoyed today – a sojourn that ends in the semi-final.

Soccer Betting Pick: Russia enters this final four encounter with a lot of confidence. One observation that may be the deciding factor tomorrow should this match go into overtime is the fact they seemed to be fitter – gathering momentum the longer the match went. In the past, Soviets have won four out of five European championship semi-finals. So the odds are in their favour – at least in history. Spain has won this championship once in 1964. Since then, repeated Spanish efforts have been thwarted. Spain is an experienced entity, made up of stars that serve the team well and instructed by experienced coach in Aragones.

Spain is the favourite. They should win. But Russia has impressed. When Gus Hiddink is involved, one should never take for granted. I do not expect this match to play to a penalty shootout. Russia will not take the same foolhardy chance Italy did. Expect many goals in this match of the century for both sides.

Soccer Free Picks:

Money Line: Spain to win at +105

Spread: Over 2 -130 goals

Nila Amerova is a freelance sports writer and regular contributor to the BetUS.com Locker Room