Some might say (including myself) that the French were lucky to reach the 2006 World Cup final. Indeed, if it hadn't been for the magical Zinedine Zidane, they might have failed at the group stages, which is exactly what looks like happening in Euro 2008. Raymond Domenech's men got a royal thumping at the hands of Holland on Friday night and are now 14/5 (Boylesports) to scramble into the quarter finals.
Their opponents are in an equal amount of trouble after a similar drubbing by the Dutch and an inability to beat Romania. Indeed, if it hadn't been for Gianluigi Buffon's penalty save, the World Cup holders would have been on a weekend flight home. The Azzurri are also expected to go crashing out by the bookmakers, with bet365 offering a best price 11/4 that they progress with the Netherlands.
A draw on Tuesday night (11/4 bet365) is unlikely to be any good to either team, wth Romania playing a Holland team who are already safely through to the knockout stages as group winners. Paddy Power go 6/4 that Italy land the three points that might just be enough, while France are marginal outsiders at 7/4 (Stan James). However, it is Roberto Donadoni's men who have shown more attacking intent over the past two matches and preference is given to them.
Luca Toni has done everything but score for the Italians and is a 6/1 chance (William Hill) to be the first name on the scoresheet. This might be enough to secure a 1-0 win (13/2 Sporting Bet), with both teams likely to shut up shop if they get their noses in front. France are 7/1 (Sporting Bet) to win by the same scoreline, and their main man in front of the opposition goal is undoubtedly Thierry Henry (15/2 bet direct). The Barcelona striker scored a sweet goal against the Dutch and is likely to be even sharper for this contest.