Cross-Sport Multiple: Back Brazil to kick off in style

Andrew Hughes thinks Brazil will begin their Confederations Cup campaign with a bang and help land a Saturday cross-sport multiple in the process.

Bet 1: Back Brazil to beat Japan at 1.28

Going into last weekend's game with France, Brazil had won just two out of six and the pressure was building, but their 3-0 victory was the perfect response to their domestic critics, and the ideal preparation for the Confederations Cup.

The tournament is a dry-run for next year's World Cup and lifting the silverware would dispel any lingering doubts about Luiz Felipe Scolari's position as the right man to lead the team into their most important World Cup since 1950.

Japan are on a high, having qualified for next year's tournament, but they won't be much of a test. They've won two of their last five, but those victories came against Canada and Iraq. Japan have never beaten Brazil and they won't on Saturday.

 

Bet 2: Back India to beat Pakistan at 1.53

Pakistan's preparation for the Champions Trophy was uncharacteristically smooth. They arrived early, ensured they had plenty of time to adjust to English conditions, and avoided any of the infighting that has been apparent on previous tours.

Unfortunately, they have ended up in the tougher of the two Groups and their batting has failed. They have one of the better bowling attacks in the tournament, but they have been bowled out for 170 and 167 in losing both of their games so far, and the decision to leave the likes of Umar Akmal and Younis Khan at home has backfired.

Beating India would offer some consolation before they fly home, but I can't see it happening. India's batting line up is exciting and their seam bowlers have performed surprisingly well. Back India for the win.

 

Bet 3: Back Lexington Rose in the 2:25 at Musselburgh at 2.62

There are some interesting two year olds lining up for this Listed event, the second race on Musselburgh's Saturday card.

Mark Johnston's Split Rock will be popular, dropped in class, and has already beaten another of Saturday's opponents, Orton Park. Robynelle is another possible, after improving to pick up her maiden at Carlisle last time out.

The form of that maiden is not particularly strong, however, and top weight Split Rock might struggle to concede eight pounds to the Bryan Smart-trained favourite, Lexington Rose. She has acquitted herself well in two Listed events, including last month's Hilary Needler Trophy, and is the classiest horse in this race.

Total Odds for this multiple: 5.13 Remember, multiple prices are based on our Sportsbook product, so any winnings are exempt from commission.

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