Perhaps that’s the beauty of cup football.
Two games in and it’s all to play for in Group A.
Mexico vs New Zealand
Although many betting odds will tell you otherwise, even rank outsiders New Zealand can’t be ruled out of progressing with optimistic sports betting fans.
Not until the next round of football games anyhow.
For as spirited a defence as they put up in their opening match, they never looked like scoring against Russia in St. Petersburg.
Not since Australia claimed third place in 2001 has a southern hemisphere country got near to winning this trophy.
It’s true the All Whites, ranked 95th in the world, have nothing to lose and should approach the Mexican clash in Sochi with a determined, if not altogether, care-free approach.
But New Zealand have never reached the knockout stages of a major tournament, and that’s unlikely to change this time as Anthony Hudson’s Kiwis remain a level below the average European side.
That is unless they can prove more resolute at the back and add a zip to their rare attacks.
Any side with the predatory instincts of Javier Hernandez, the guile of Jonathan dos Santos and the experienced Carlos Vela must start as favourites.
Russia vs Portugal
After their underwhelming displays at Euro 2016, coupled with off the field hooliganism, this tournament offers a chance for Russia to redeem themselves.
What better way could there be than with a home victory against the European champions?
Stanislav Tchertchesov has made a solid start to his tenure as coach and there’s no doubt victory in this one would be his finest moment to date, not to mention securing a semi-final place.
The Otkrytiye Arena in Moscow will host Cristiano Ronaldo and company – Ronaldo with many happy memories of the city after Manchester United’s 2008 Champions League success.
It was no surprise Ronaldo skipped the post-match press conference after their 2-2 draw with Mexico, given the scrutiny he is under.
He and the contentious VAR (video assistant referee) system continue to be the talking points of this tournament.
By chance or by design, it’s becoming big box-office this Confederations Cup lark!
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