I'm no expert on the Russian squad, but it doesn't take a soccer Zen master to notice that over the course of Euro 2008 the Russians have grown stronger while Spain's pitch prowess has weakened.

The return of Andrei Arshavin has been central to Russia's resurgence, and I expect another great performance today.  In addition, the Russian midfield should not be overlooked, especially given how sluggish Spain's midfield has played recently.  And even though any coach is only an educator and motivator, coach Guus Hiddink will again hoodwink the opposition.

As far as a play on the total, I'm going with the over, 2.5 goals at the time I placed my wager.  I highly doubt Spain will approach this match the same way they competed against Italy, which is to say I expect more speed and more attacking. 

Official Plays:

Russia 0 (+130)

Over 2.5 (+110)

No matter what side you are on today, enjoy yet another beautiful game!  And even if the Russians should come up short, we will always have the fabulous novels of Dostoevsky and Tolstoy, Russian models, the music of Regina Spektor, vodka, the White Russian cocktail, and everyone's favorite flirtation with death, Russian Roulette.