Star Sixes - Saturday
Sky Sports' Star Sixes has been a superb idea. We weren;t sure about it before the off, but it's already been a roaring success, and quite how they persuaded so many genuine world stars to appear is an immense achievement.
Brazil v Nigeria
With a bit of form to go on, we really like the look of Brazil, who brought Julio Baptise, Roberto Carlos and Gilberto Silva among their number. That's been enough so see them beat Italy 2-1 and run out 7-0 winners against China. With Nigeria only just able to creep past China (3-2) they could be suspectible against the five times world champions, and we fancy Brazil on the -2 Handicap. They are 6/4 to win by more than two goals and that looks worth a dabble.
Italy v China
We'll take a similar bet when Italy meet China. There was little to call between Brazil and Italy when the pair met on Thursday, with the South American's creeping past Italy 2-1. If Brazil were good enough to put seven past China, who really haven't brought a great crop of stars to this event, then Italy could be on for a similar score. The (-3) handicap line would need Italy to win by four goals to cover, but we reckon at 11/4 that's worth a poke with the likes of Di Canio, Ravenelli and Del Piero in their side. Italy to win on the -3 Handicap at 11/4
Germany v Portugal
This one could be a goal fest. Portugal found themselves on the receiving end of a 6-4 defeat to Denmark in the opening match, and then lost 3-2 to France on Friday. They aren't out of it though with eight teams qualifying, so will be fighting all the way in this one. Germany have also been involved in goals all over the shop - drawing 2-2 with Denmark and beating France 4-3 on the opening night. For Germany, Kevin Kuranyi and Michael Ballack are particularly dangerous, while Portugal have Nuno Gomes and Helder Postiga, while Raul Meireles was playing professional as recently as eight months ago. The 13/8 on Over 5.5 Goals looks a good play here.