WHO WILL WIN THE CONFEDERTIONS CUP?

Outright Odds

Odds: 2/1

The World champions are considered as the favourites to lift the trophy in Russia this year, although it appears that Joachim Low is using the event as an opportunity to give youth some vital tournament experience ahead of next year’s World Cup.

There is no place in the squad for key players like Manuel Neuer, Mats Hummels, Toni Kroos or Thomas Muller, while 14 of the 23 selected are still in single figures in term of senior caps.

In fact, with 30 to his name, Captain Julian Draxler can boast the most experience and he is joined by players like Emre Can, Joshua Kimmich and Jonas Hector.

Although a gamble, it is very rare that the Germans get it wrong at major tournaments and they will fancy prevailing from Group B featuring Australia and Cameroon, so do not be surprised to see these players deliver the goods come July 2.

Chile Outright Odds

Odds: 9/4

The back-to-back Copa America champions are making their debut in this event and certainly have plenty of momentum on their side.

Talisman Alexis Sanchez will provide firepower up front alongside Eduardo Vargas for Juan Antonio Pizzi’s men, while Arturo Vidal shall be pulling the strings in midfield next to the hard-working Gary Medel.

As well as their Copa triumphs, La Roja have given a very good account for themselves at major tournaments in recent years, with their high-pressing and high tempo difficult for teams to cope with, and they will feel confident going to Russia.

PORTUGAL OUTRIGHT ODDS

Odds: 5/2

European champions are also making their bow in the quadrennial tournament, following their fairy-tale success in France last year.

Captain Cristiano Ronaldo will be leading the charge for Fernando Santos’ men once again, while he shall receive support from the likes of Nani, Joao Moutinho and new AC Milan strike Andre Silva, who has netted seven goals in just eight international appearances.

While their style of play may not have been the easiest on the eye during that Euro 2016 triumph, the tireless and hard-working approach clearly paid off for the Portuguese, and how they would love history to repeat itself here.

Mexico Outright Odds

Odds: 9/1

The reigning CONCACAF Gold Cup champions are the most experienced nation at the tournament this year, ahead of what will be their seventh appearance.

El Tri are also the only former winners on display in Russia, having lifted the trophy in 1999, and arrive with plenty of experienced options in attack including record goalscorer Javier Hernandez, as well as the likes of Carlos Vela, Giovani Dos Santos and Oribe Peralta.

Meanwhile, captain Rafael Marquez was a member of that victorious side 18 years ago and will be looking to inspire the current crop of players to achieve similar feats in 2017.

Russia Outright Odds

Odds: 9/1

Without the stress of having to endure the gruelling qualification process for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, Russia can use this as an opportunity to really build some momentum ahead of next year.

They are currently in the midst of a transitional period with several key players retiring from international duty, although veteran goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev remains a stalwart between the sticks. 

However, this is a good chance for the newer faces to gain some vital tournament experience. Combine that with the fact that every host nation of a major competition has a good chance of winning, who knows what is possible here?

Cameroon Outright Odds

Odds: 20/1

The African Cup of Nations champions return to the tournament in which they last appeared back in 2003 when, despite reaching the final, their achievement was cast to insignificance following the tragic death of midfielder Marc-Vivien Foe during the semi-final victory over Colombia.

However, the Indomitable Lions did beat the likes of Brazil that year and, although drawn in Group B alongside Germany and Chile, then anything is possible for them in Russia should they produce a similar level of team spirit and collectiveness.

Besiktas striker Vincent Aboubakar carries their greatest threat up front, along with captain Benjamin Moukandjo.

Australia Outright O

Odds: 33/1

This is the first time that the Socceroos will be representing Asia in this event, following their victory in the 2015 Asian Cup.

Like Cameroon, they face the prospect of appearing in the same group as Germany and Chile, but will be eager to upset the odds in 2017.

The evergreen Tim Cahill always carries a threat in attack, while Manchester City midfielder Aaron Mooy shall look to pull the strings after an impressive season on loan at Huddersfield Town.


New Zealand Outright Odds
Odds: 500/1

Having conceded a whopping 23 goals across their three previous appearances in this event – scoring just two in reply – it is understandable as to why New Zealand are considered heavy outsiders in Russia.

The reigning OFC Nations Cup champions will be desperate to ensure that their fourth appearance is a slightly more respectable one at the very least.

Captain Chris Wood shall be aiming to build on a prolific season at Leeds United, while fellow forward Shane Smeltz boasts a credible record of 24 goals in 53 international appearances.