The Confederations Cup kicks-off this weekend and a new champion will be crowned with current holders Brazil not involved.

Held every four-years, 12-months before the World Cup finals and in that host county, it is seen as the second most prestigious world in international football.

It is contested by the reigning champions from the six regional confederations – Europe (UEFA), South America (CONMEBOL), North & Central America (CONCACAF), Africa (CAF), Asia (AFC) and Oceania (OFC). They are joined by the World Cup holders and the host nation – bringing the total to eight teams.

So the line-up for this year’s competition is Russia as hosts, Germany as World champions and then the regional champions Portugal, Chile, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand and Cameroon.

The eight teams have been drawn into two groups of four with the top two from each making the semi-finalists.

1⃣ DAY TO GO
Excitement is building in Russia ahead of tomorrow's big #ConfedCup kick-off ?⚽️??
? https://t.co/pJrWL2iO3b pic.twitter.com/dm9bEEwwsW

— #ConfedCup (@FIFAcom) June 16, 2017

Group A consists of Russia, New Zealand, Portugal and Mexico.

Group B is Cameroon, Germany, Chile and Australia.

Our Football Insider Graeme Bailey gave us his views on how he sees the competition going in Russia.

“I think there is some real value here – European duo Portugal and Germany will be tough to beat, but for me I really like the look of Mexico, they have picked a really strong squad and I think they could do some damage here. ”

We spoke with Unibet’s Alistair Gill to get their views on the tournament.

“We are seeing the money for Germany and for me they are a bit short, it is a young inexperienced squad, and a little bit lightweight up-front,” he told TheGamblingTimes.com.

“Chile are not bad value, Portugal are also short

“But the value bet for me is Russia at 9/1 – the host nation traditionally has a good record and it will be a  unique atmosphere, and Russia even 3/1 to reach the final I think is a very good bet.

“Mexico should be in the mix, but not sure I see them as potential favourites – we think you can get rid of the bottom three in the betting in Cameroon, Australia and New Zealand, but the other five certainly should be in contention.

“Our Group betting looks interesting, 21/10 – you can have any team from Group A to win, Portugal, Russia and Mexico – so maybe three of the five involved in the produce a winner market.

“I think the top-scorer at 4/1 for Alexis Sanchez looks good and even him again at 3/1 in the assist market looks good – we have got a raft of offers on for this tournament, our guys have really made an effort here, as this is the main tournament for the punters we think.”