Well, that tantalising draw between Italy and Spain is not good for Ireland. Italy are not here to make up the numbers as they were in the 2010 World Cup. On the betting markets is consolidated the feeling that the Spain and Italy are dead certs to make it through to the quarterfinals.
Here's how the Group C markets stand 30 minutes away from kickoff between Ireland and Croatia.
Italy haters will find them at 6/1 to finish last in the group.
Spain is at 1/5 and Italy is at 8/15 to make it out of the group. Ireland are still solid at 4/1 to make it out of the group. Croatia are at 15/8.
Italy are an interesting bet at 16/5 to win the group, with Spain still clear favourite at 4/5. Interestingly, Ireland are 13s. If they beat Croatia, 1 more point could conceivably win them the group.
The dual forecast bet has a smart bet for patriotic gamblers: Spain/Ireland at 6/1 to both reach the quarters.
Spain are now at 3/1 to win the whole tournament, while Italy are down to 13/1.
