Tuesday, June 06, 2006

Golden Boot ......

Looking at previous tournaments you need a minimum six goals and to be an out and out striker.

My choice at the 33-1 on offer is Pauleta, his goals to games ratio, for players who have 50+ appearances for their country, is only bettered by Ronaldo.

Portugal are in a group that looks likely to produce goals, they were big scorers in qualification, netting 35 times, including 7 against Russia. Pauleta scored in 8 of these 12 matches, to add to his tally of 46 goals in 82 appearances.

Unless injured, he will start every game as the lone frontman, a system also employed by his club side Paris St-Germain. He finished the season as leading scorer in Ligue 1 with 21 goals, 7 clear of the runner up. This earned him a new, lucrative contract, which ensures he comes here with no distractions.

Portugal's all time leading scorer, recently passing legend Eusebio, Pauleta disappointed in Euro 2004, maybe due to public expectation. However, Scolari kept faith in him and it has been repaid, now, without the hopes of a home nation on his shoulders, he should produce the goods.

Opponents, Iran have been involved in high scoring matches recently, their last four games producing 20 goals. Angola, have conceded goals to Lesotho (fifa ranked 141) and Mauritius (146) and have had a disappointing Cup of Nations, since causing a major shock in qualification, they look the weak link. Even Mexico who are normally watertight have been involved in goals on their travels.

If Portugal build a little confidence, they could go a long way in Germany, they can have few complaints about the group.

3 points Pauleta top Portugal scorer 2.875 general
2 points Golden Boot 34.0 general ...........

NB 40.0 is available on Maltco, for those that have access to this quote, you can lay it off at 6 points less on Betfair, for an instant profit.

Good Luck.

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