Against All Odds: Super Eagles to light up the Sky Blue

Pat-a-cake, pat-a-cake, Oduamadi's the man. Score me a goal as fast as you can

Uruguay are odds-on for their Confederations Cup clash with Nigeria but after putting in a woeful display against Spain, Paul Robinson believes that they have to be opposed.

The Uruguayans lost their opening match of Group B to Spain by two goals to one, however that scoreline flattered them greatly. The Spanish were in complete control throughout and the South Americans had barely threatened before Luis Suarez's late consolation.

In truth, scar Tabrez's side have been struggling for some time now and despite a couple of recent wins prior to this tournament, they still haven't convinced. With the likes of Suarez, Cavani, Forlan, Gargano and Ramirez you'd think that they'd have a real shot of winning a major tournament, but they'll be eliminated with a defeat tonight and they are far from certain to qualify for Brazil 2014.

The manager got his tactics all wrong last time and although I expect an improvement, it's perhaps significant that 'The Sky Blue One' have won just three of their last 13 away from Uruguay.

Nigeria easily disposed of Tahiti in their opening game and that facile success extended their unbeaten run to 19 matches. While they've faced some poor countries during that period, it's certainly worth noting - especially as it will have installed plenty of confidence in the players.

The Super Eagles know that a victory will ensure their place in the semi-finals but a draw may well still be good enough. Granted, Uruguay could well put 10 past Tahiti, but assuming Spain win, we could see Vicente del Bosque play his fringe players against the Nigerians in their final group game.

Even if Nigeria weren't 19 without defeat I wouldn't be rushing to back Uruguay at odds-on. All things considered then, with Uruguay trading as low as 1.855/6, I have to make them my lay of the day. 

Recommended Bet
Lay Uruguay v Nigeria @ 1.855/6 

Live on BBC3 @ 23:00 GMT

2013 P/L (1pt each bet)

Wagered: 179 pts
Returned: 161.10 pts
P/L – 8.90 pts (after commission)
(2012 P/L: + 9.60 pts)