Betting: Germany & Portugal lead the chase for Confederations Cup glory

The Confederations Cup has reached the semi-final stage - and it is the European heavyweights who are at the top of the outright winners market.

Portugal, who eased into the final four of the competition with a comfortable 4-0 win against New Zealand on Saturday, are priced by bet365 at  2/1 (3.0) joint-favourites alongside Germany, who secured their semi-final spot with a 3-1 win against Cameroon on Sunday.

Fernando Santos' side face a fascinating semi-final showdown with Chile, who can be backed at 5/2 (3.50) to secure the silverware, while Mexico - the 6/1 (7.0) outsiders of four - will meet Joachim Low's men in the second semi-final.

Much was expected of Portugal when they arrived in Russia. Santos named a full-strength squad for this competition as the 62-year-old manager signalled his intention that Portugal follow up on their stunning victory at last summer's European Championships with further success this summer.

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Portugal were left frustrated by a 2-2 draw against Mexico in their opening game - with Santos' men conceding a stoppage time equaliser - but back-to-back wins against host nation Russia and the All Whites ensured that the European champions remain firmly in contention.

German boss, Joachim Low, who celebrated his 100th victory as Die Mannschaft manager against Cameroon at the weekend, named a largely inexperienced squad for this competition, with the 57-year-old opting to rest a number of his key players.

Thus far, the strategy has reaped rewards, for the Germans kicked off their campaign with a thrilling 3-2 win against Australia, while a 1-1 draw with Chile was sandwiched between the victory against the Socceroos and Sunday's defeat of the Indomitable Lions.

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Die Mannschaft have never lifted this trophy before and, despite being devoid of a number of their key protagonists, those that have made the trip to Russia will certainly be determined to write their names into German footballing folklore by securing the silverware in Russia.

Chile look to be fiercely competitive and Juan Antonio Pizzi's men are certainly interesting contenders at 5/2 (3.50). There is every chance that the South American side will become Confederations Cup favourites should they knock Portugal out at the semi-final stage and the 5/2 (3.50) quote on offer for the 2016 Copa America champions to deliver may well prove popular with punters.

Mexico eliminated host nation Russia with a hard-fought 2-1 win on Saturday, but Juan Carlos Osorio's side have struggled to produce their best form in Russia - as such, El Tri will need to find another gear if they are to be crowned as champions this summer.

Both Portugal and Germany will prove tough to beat, but Chile could represent good value for punters at 5/2 (3.50) ahead of two intriguing semi-final showdowns.