France vs. Spain
The only game I like in today's U-18 EC line is this one. Reason is simple - this game is very important for Spain and they are huge underdogs here. After their loss to Russia in first game and yesterday Russia slump against Sweden they are obligated to win this game to avoid points differential tie at the of the second group stage. Only 2 teams from this group will qualify into WC-2009 and also those team will continue to play for medals here. At this moment France, Russia and Spain are main candidates for 2 spots but Spain already have -16 in their points difference if this team will collect equal points what is very possible if Spain and Russia win today.

So Spain must win this game and cut points difference. As for me they are one the best teams in this generation because they were champions 2 years ago in U-16, and were second last year on the same tournament. But this team mainly based on 2006 roster and I expect them to give a real fight today to the French team. By they way so far Spain have 2-1 record in this generation in official games by winning 65:60  in 2006, 77:63 in 2007. The only loss came last year in the Finals where France won 65:60 in close battle. Spain had tough opponents so far on this tournament like Belarus (most underrated team here), Russia (top team) and Serbia (one of the best teams but not in form). They achieved 3 wins in those game but now blowouts were made.

French on other side had easy schedule with Sweden, Croatia, Serbia and Bulgary on the road. They are much metter than all those medium teams (except Serbia) and it's logical that they trashed them by using hard defense. But Spain is a top team and I expect first troubles for France in this game. I expect tough battle with Spain dominance in the end because of experience and their winning mentality, also motivation is on spaniard side.

I would set -4.5 handicap here if I would be a bookmaker only because of stats and tournament form. But talking about the outcome I see 50/50 chances. Even if Spain will lose this game I think they will continue to care about points difference.

Pick: Spain +6.5 @ 1.85 Unibet 5/10

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