Torres’ brace sees him prominent in top scorer betting

After being omitted from Spain’s starting lineup for their Euro 2012 opener, Fernando Torres hit a brace in his first start to propel him to 7/4 second-favourite to be the top tournament goalscorer.

Torres was a disappointing substitute as Spain draw with Italy last week, wasting two scoring opportunities after replacing Cesc Fabregas in the latter stages of the game.

When claiming a starting berth against Ireland last night though, it took the Chelsea striker less than four minutes to find the net.

He went on to add a second-half strike to his tally also, making him Spain’s third-highest goalscorer of all time, as La Rojas dominated proceedings from start to finish.

Indeed, the Spanish appeared to have greater incision in their play with Torres leading the line, and after his double, it would be very harsh of Vicente del Bosque to leave him out of their final group game with Croatia.

These factors considered, Torres may prove a worthy punt at 7/4 to land the top tournament goalscorer prize, whilst it is also an appealing 5/1 that he top scores in a Spanish tournament win.

Amongst Torres’ main competitors for the award meanwhile, is Mario Gomez, who is 6/4 favourite to land the accolade, after hitting an impressive three strikes in Germany’s opening two games.

After already demonstrating his lethal finishing ability in Poland and Ukraine, Ladbrokes favour a Gomez top goalscorer/Germany tournament winner scenario at 5/2.

Alternatively, it is 3/1 that Gomez top scores as the improving Spain successfully defend their European crown.

Alan Dzagoev is next at 5/1 to finish as top scorer, with the advanced Russian midfielder having also scored three times in only two appearances.

However, with his side not fancied to go to the very latter stages of the tournament, a rejuvenated Torres looks a better bet even at a shorter 7/4, playing for the tournament favourites.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.