New coach Bert Van Marwijk is set to bring up his first win with the Socceroos against the Czech Republic on Friday night.
At least that’s what punters think.
Despite being slight outsiders, at $2.88, the parochial punters are right behind the Socceroos backing them to a man to beat The Czech Republic ($2.30). With places in Australia’s final 23-man World Cup squad up for grabs it is not surprising a $3.30 on offer for a drawn result is friendless in betting.
Markets for Australia’s friendly.
The Socceroos with a loss and draw, in previous friendlies, under Van Marwijk need to find winning form. This is the second last lead-up match before Australia starts its World Cup campaign. The Socceroos play their last lead-up against Hungary on June 10.
The Socceroos are $301 to win the World Cup and $17 outsiders to beat France ($1.20) in their opening Group C match on June 16. Germany and Brazil are $5.50 avourites to win the tournament.
Van Marwijk will be cutting three squad members after this match so players will be putting it all on the line. That may have something to do with punter confidence because it has been one-way traffic for the Socceroos.