The World Cup Final

The World Cup concludes later today as France take on Italy for the most coverted prize in football. As you might expect there are plenty of interesting markets available for punters.

As we look forward to the last knock-out game of the competition, the prospects for an exciting "end to end" goal fest' seem pretty slim. The knock-out games have produced very few goals. Italy did beat UKraine 3-0, apart from that almost all of the other matches were settled by a single goal, or penalties (sorry England fans). The final, as with most finals, will be a tense, defensive affair for the first third of the game. Italy are simply awesome in defence. However France, with Zidane, have a team which can break down the Italian back line.

We expect a low scoring affair, that may go to extra-time. The bookmakers aren't sure who will win this either. Bet 365 have Italy at 6/4, the draw at 9/5 and France at 21/10. France are too big here. This is a team who comprehensively beat Brazil and have improved game after game, after a very boring 0-0 draw in their opening game against Switzerland. The safe bet, of course, seems to be the under 2.5 goals market. Disappointingly Bet 365 have this priced up at only 1/3. Better value for this market is likely to exist on the betting exchanges.

If, like the other knock-out games, you're expecting a sleep inducing affair, then the Half-time/Full-time market looks an attractive proposition. The Draw/Draw result is a tempting 3/1 on Bet 365. Even better value is the Draw/France result at 6/1. If you feel Italy will start slowly but come good in the second half you can pick up 9/2. Of course, you can back all three, if the half time result is a draw you're guaranteed a profit from three level stakes.

The goal scorers markets have a few appealing prices. One which stands out for me is Zidane to score first/France to win 1-0. This is 40/1 on Bet 365. Zidane is the French penalty taker and with the tricky feet of Henry up front, a spot kick could be very likely. Perhaps you fancy Henry to do the business himself? 1-0 and Henry to score first is 22/1.

I will be taking France to win within 90 minutes at 21/10. This for me, an Englishman, is a head over ruling heart bet. If you're neutral on the game then let's hope for an exciting final and that Zidane, Totti and co. will turn on the style.

Ed note: Back France at Bet 365 and grab a £100 new account bonus

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