World Cup 2014: England v Italy First Goalscorer Betting Tips and Predictions

England will be looking to get their World Cup campaign off to a flyer on Saturday against an Italian side that has struggled for form of late. Here we take a look at three contenders in the first  goalscorer markets for some free World Cup 2014 betting tips.

England v Italy Betting Tips: First Goalscorer

Daniel Sturridge – Bet Here at 7/1 with Ladbrokes.

With Wayne Rooney sat slightly deeper in England's attack, Liverpool's Daniel Sturridge has stepped up to the plate in recent matches and appears to be Roy Hodgson's weapon of choice heading into the World Cup. After plundering 21 goals in Liverpool's league campaign, Sturridge carried on this form with a goal and a man of the match performance against Denmark recently and also opened the scoring in the 3-0 victory over Peru a fortnight ago. Although he was a little wasteful against Honduras in England's final warm-up game, the mere fact he is getting these chances certainly bodes well for any potential suitors against Italy.

Ladbrokes have Sturrdige a 7/1 shot to open the scoring on Saturday, however I would be inclined to take a small hit on the odds and back him with Betfred's 'DDHH' offer at 6/1. Although Italy aren't renowned for a porous defence, there is some outstanding potential if he can notch early in the game. For those who prefer to stick to the anytime scorer market, Sturridge is available at a best priced 13/5 with Bet365.

Andrea Pirlo – Bet Here at 14/1 with Bet365

Two years ago in the European Championship, Andrea Pirlo gave a midfield masterclass in Italy's quarter-final victory over England. Although the match was settled via a penalty shootout, the Juventus playmaker had more touches in that game than the entire England midfield combined. If England afford him the same time and space on Saturday, they are going to lose. Accessing Pirlo as a goalscoring threat, the 35 year old managed a respectable six strikes for the Italian champions this year. Although this isn't exactly prolific, a vast majority of Pirlo's career strikes have been from set-pieces. This weekend's game being played in the much documented Manaus – Which for those who haven't heard, is practically in the jungle. With lots of heavy legs wilting in the heat, expect plenty of tired challenges, thus highlighting the appeal of a dead-ball specialist. 

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Browsing the bookmakers, Pirlo is a best priced 14/1 to open the scoring with Bet365. These are very generous odds in comparison to other bookies. However, there is even more of a bargain on offer when venturing into the anytime goalscorer market. Once again with Bet365, Pirlo is a whopping 6/1 to score in 90 minutes. To put this in perspective, Coral are only tabling 5/2. Given Pirlo's prowess from dead-balls and guaranteed game time, this is an excellent bet. 

Gary Cahill – Bet Here at 40/1 with Ladbrokes.

Finally for those chasing a longshot, centre back Gary Cahill comes into the reckoning after bagging a goal against Peru a couple of weeks ago. Although the Chelsea man only managed to notch twice for his club this year, the Manaus conundrum once again plays into our thoughts. With tricky wide players such as Adam Lallana and Raheem Sterling, expect plenty of fouls on the flanks from the Italians and several opportunities for England's big men to make their way forward. With Steven Gerrard frequently putting balls on a plate for his teammates, Cahill will certainly have some opportunities. 

Ladbrokes have Cahill a monstrous 40/1 to open the scoring, which would certainly set of some fireworks if you're brave enough to back it. However, Bet365 offer 20/1 on the Chelsea defender to score anytime. Even at half the odds, you are still getting some terrific value with far less risk.

Click here for more World Cup 2014 betting tips and for England v Italy tips.

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