Each day our exclusive MATCH OF THE DAQ service previews the big match of the day – usually a televised game.
As well as the preview we also bring you the head to head records of the two teams as well as a recommended bet on BETDAQ for the match.
England U21 v Czech Republic U21
Euro 2011
KO 19:45, Sky Sports 1
HEAD-TO-HEAD
(Max last 10 only)
18 Nov 2008 U21 International England 2-0 Czech Republic
11 Jun 2007 European Championship, Netherlands 2007 Czech Republic 0-0 England
17 Nov 2008 U21 International England 0-1 Czech Republic
09 Jun 1993 U21 International Czech Republic 1-1 England
PREVIEW
Having seen the way that England’s youngsters were out-classed by Spain and out of ideas against Ukraine, some might argue that they will make the step up to the seniors seamlessly.
As a result of their bore draw against Ukraine, they are now in a straight shoot-out with Czech Republic for a qualifying spot. The mathematics don’t require a calculator: take three points and England are through, anything less and they are not.
The Czechs grabbed a 2-1 victory over Ukraine in their opening game in what was their eleventh match unbeaten before finally losing that proud record to Spain last time out. Spain are now odds on to win the tournament at 1.74 on Betdaq so clearly there’s little shame in that and England will be able to testify to the quality of the Spanish.
The Czech Republic have the weapons to hurt England. Tomas Pekhart – a striker once on Tottenham’s books – scored nine times in qualifying and Borek Dockal netted a brace in their defeat of Ukraine to name but two.
England have looked unimaginative so far and need to step up significantly to get the win that they need. However, their price is too skinny for me and they look a better lay than back on Betdaq at around 2.21.
RECOMMENDATION: (1-10 points)
Lay England at around 2.21 on Betdaq: 4 points
Saturday’s Return: -6 points
