The opening match of the 2017 Confederations Cup sees the tournament hosts Russia taking on the supposed whipping boys of the tournament in New Zealand in Saint Petersburg on Saturday afternoon.
With Portugal and Mexico to come for the two sides in Group A later in the tournament it is imperative that these two get off to quick starts so this should be a really competitive beginning to the event.
Russia
The hosts Russia will be making their debut in the Confederations Cup in this match. It is an important tournament for them because it is the last time they will play a competitive match before they host the big one next summer. That is sure to focus their minds and ease any fears they might not take it seriously.
Russia were last seen in competitive action bombing out of the European Championship last year and it will be interesting to see what improves, if any, have been made. Of course we’ve seen them in a number of friendlies in that time but it isn’t until we see them under the pump so to speak that we’ll know for sure.
New Zealand
It is easy to go into this tournament thinking that New Zealand will get wiped out from all and sundry but that isn’t necessarily going to be the case. Admittedly it was seven years ago but they were unbeaten in the 2010 World Cup, going out after three draws in the group stage but one of those was to Italy no less.
They may only play in Oceania but New Zealand don’t concede many as a rule. They are very organised but with that organisation and defensive discipline comes a lack of goals at the other end and that is their concern heading into this tournament. It will be interesting to see if they can find a way to break down three solid defences.
Team News
Fedor Smolov will be the focal point of the Russian attack with the likes of Denis Glushakov and Aleksandr Golovin giving him the support from surrounding areas.
All eyes will be on Leeds striker Chris Wood for New Zealand but there will be no Winston Reid as the West Ham defender was ruled out of the tournament through injury.
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Betting
Russia go into this match as the overwhelming favourites and while I understand why they are also the only side with any real pressure on their shoulders too so it will be interesting to see how they deal with that.
I’m not expecting a festival of goal scoring in this match. Russia have to win else they are right up against it and New Zealand neither concede many nor score a lot. I wouldn’t expect Russia to go out and take risks to win this big over just winning and I’m not convinced they are good enough to do that anyway so under 2.5 goals looks a serious contender for me.
Tips
WON – Back Under 2.5 goals for a 4/10 stake at 1.91 with Betbright
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