France vs Spain Betting 26/03/13

France are currently leading Spain by two points at the top of Group I after four games each. In the first meeting these two sides drew 1-1 and with the group for the taking, both teams will be looking for all three points in Paris.

Chelsea striker Fernando Torres is once again left out of the Spain squad for the qualifier against France. His form for the blues has been poor as of late and even though he won the Golden Boot at Euro 2012, Coach Vicente Del Bosque has decided to leave out El Nino.

Spain had a shock as they drew 1-1 at home to Finland which enabled France to take control of the group. On the other hand the French defeated Georgia 3-1, leaving them two points in front. If the positions of these two remained the same then the Spanish would have to progress through the playoffs to make the World Cup in Brazil next year.

France played 4-4-2 against Georgia however Olivier Giroud could be on the bench and Karim Benzema will start as a lone striker.

Benzema to score anytime is 7/4 on SkyBet.

French youngsters Varane and Pogba started against Georgia and it will be interesting to see whether one or both will start against the European and World champions.

Xavi and Xabi Alonso were absent in Spain’s draw against Finland. Both have struggled with fitness but if they are involved, will be key if Spain can pick up a point or three. Manchester City’s David Silva is ruled out because he has picked up too many yellow cards this campaign.

Iker Casillas didn’t make the squad due to injury so Barcelona’s Victor Valdes is expected to start in goal.

Spain hasn’t lost a competitive game since the World Cup 2010 when Switzerland beat them 1-0 on the opening fixture.

Draw – Draw double result is 4/1 on BetFred.

Although the Spanish don’t have their strongest at their disposal, they are strong enough to get a result. Both France and Spain are 13/2 to come from behind and draw with Ladbrokes.

France will want to maintain a lead in the table against Spain so it is expected that Spain will have most of the possession as France sit deep. This could be a problem for both and for the spectators. However the tension will be high in the Stade De France and that is why the score prediction is: France 1-1 Spain.

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