Euro 2008 - Croatia v Turkey

I didn't wanted to pick anything here untill i see match between their opponents, Portugal vs Germany cause i wanted to see the real meaning of Croatia's win over Germany and Portugals over Turkey.

Croatia had much troubles when facing hosts in Vienna, after early lead by Modrić they left Austrians to dominate and hosts were unlucky not to win a point there.

After that, and some friendlies before EURO, people in Croatia started to doubt in their abilities and then came tactically perfect match vs Germany and 2-1 win which boosted their confidence and opened some new ambitions. Match vs Poland was more like a friedly match, only Pranjić and Rakitić were in first XI from regular starters. Turkey started with defeat against Portugal in first match, showe some weaknesses and Portugal didn't had too much troubles in that match.

After that poor halftime against Swiss, most of the people writed them off, but they managed to come back after one goal behind and win the match with Turan's late goal in injury time. Czechs had perfect opportunity to eliminate them, even a draw would mean that they are qualified for the quarter-finals but amazing return after 0-2 in 75th minute would not be forgotten for a many years. In that match Turks lost their GK Volkan and Aurelio, probably even Servet who was injured for the whole match vs Czech Republic.

If we compare so far's performances of these two teams than no doubt that Croatia is favourite. Win against strong Germans(altough, not so strong like vs portugal), and few more days rest because of unimportant match in 3rd round was the main reason IMHO why the bookies gave them the edge when setting the odds.

Turkey is team with great team spirit, encouraged after that match vs CZE and full of confidence cause they are close to getting into the history. Total football is their main characteristic, especially when they are behind. Croaia on the other hand is the best when they're holding their tempo, playing their own way. They play with much more responsibility than Turks and i see that detail as deciding.

Objectively, Swiss and Czechs are below Croatia's level atm, and they will most definetly learn on their mistakes.

Croatia straight win is my main bet here, along with over 2 goals.

Pick : Croatia
Odds : 1.91
Stake : 7 / 10
Bookmaker : Pinnacle
Match Result : 0-0
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