France v Iceland Betting Preview

Back hosts France to reach semi-finals with a win

France

The hosts are unbeaten in their four games so far, winning three and drawing the other. They are one of only four teams still unbeaten in 90 minutes, and they maintain their position as favourites heading into the latter stages of the competition. A 2-1 victory over the Republic of Ireland in the last round was a well-deserved yet hard-fought victory after the French found themselves 1-0 down within three minutes. However two goals from Antoine Griezmann were enough to send the hosts through.

Despite their positive results, France have only kept two clean sheets, and their defensive weaknesses could be their undoing in this tournament. Their attack on the other hand is thriving having scored six goals in four games – only Wales (10) and Belgium (9) have scored more. Didier Deschamps’ men have registered 72 attempts on goal and hold an average possession of 55%, the sixth-highest at the tournament so far. All the games they’ve won have been won by a margin of one goal, however they’ve always looked comfortable on the ball, backed up by a pass success rate of 87%. Their performances have been promising, but I still think there’s more to come – I’m backing the French to beat Iceland on Sunday.

Iceland

The fairy tale goes on for Iceland and their supporters after they clinched a quarter-final spot at their first major championship following a shock 2-1 victory over England – by far the biggest achievement in the country’s sporting history. Iceland, along with France, are one of the four teams yet to be beaten in 90 minutes, and they are well worthy of their place in the last eight. Also like France, Iceland have scored six goals so far, but against stronger opposition such as Portugal, Hungary and now England. They have however conceded four goals, and they’ll have to be careful at the back, especially against one of the tournament’s most dangerous attacks.

Co-managers Lars Lagerback and Heimir Hallgrimsson have seen their side register a mere 29 attempts on goal so far, and only Northern Ireland managed fewer (23) of all the teams who reached the last 16. However, with 14 of their 29 attempts being on target, it’s easy to see that Iceland’s success hasn’t come by luck – when they get a chance they tend to take it. With almost 1000 fewer passes than France, a pass success rate of 72% and an average ball possession of 35% – still the lowest of all 24 teams – Iceland will once again be up against it in this tie. I think they’ll make France work for it, but I don’t think Iceland will be able to stop France from progressing into the last four.

Head-to-Head

In the 11 meetings between the two sides France are unbeaten, winning eight and drawing three. They’ve won five of the last six, with the last meeting coming back in 2012 when France nicked a 3-2 victory on the night.

To score – Antoine Griezmann 13/10

So far it’s three goals in four games for the Atletico Madrid striker, and his performance against the Republic of Ireland last weekend provided more proof of the quality he possesses. His two well-taken goals fired France into the last eight, and his technical ability with both his head and feet will cause the Iceland defence problems, especially after encountering no such talent against England. I’m backing Griezmann to find the net with odds of 13/10.

Both teams to score – Yes 5/4

Iceland have scored in all four of their matches so far, with France only failing to score once (0-0 vs. Switzerland). Both sides have scored in their last five meetings between the two sides, and with France’s defence looking shaky at times I wouldn’t be surprised to see Iceland find the net as well as the hosts. Back odds of 5/4 for both sides to score on Sunday night.

Match odds – France 2/5

With Wales knocking out Belgium in yesterday’s quarter-final tie, as well as Iceland’s victory over England in the previous stage, it would be foolish to write off the Icelanders altogether. However, France have a number of world-class talents within their ranks, and unlike England their desire and passion to win, especially on their home turf, should guide them to victory in this one. You can back France to win at odds of 2/5, whereas a shock victory for Iceland in normal time is priced at 8/1. A draw after 90 minutes is priced at 4/1.

Writer’s prediction: France 2 – 1 Iceland

*Odds correct at the time of publication, click here for all the latest odds on upcoming football matches.

England v Iceland Betting Preview

Back England to earn victory over surprise package Iceland

England

Despite not losing a game, England only managed to qualify for the last 16 in second place, losing out on top spot after Wales claimed first place in Group B with two wins. England only won one of their three games, but drew the other two to remain unbeaten in the group stage. Despite registering 65 attempts on goal in three games, England only managed to find the net three times, and Roy Hodgson will be hoping for a more ruthless display in front of goal on Monday night.

England only conceded two goals in their three group games, and also recorded an average of 58% of the ball possession – the fourth highest at the tournament. Their pass success rate of 89% was also the competition’s fourth-highest. The only thing lacking from England’s performances has been that final finish, and with Harry Kane likely to return to the starting line-up, I’m confident that Hodgson’s men will have enough to win the game and reach the quarter-final stage for the third European Championship in a row.

Iceland

Iceland’s first European Championship has got off to a fantastic start, and the side who did so well to qualify automatically from Group F in qualification have continued their fine form into the finals. Joint first team coaches Lars Lagerback and Heimir Hallgrimsson led their side to second in Group F at their first finals after they, like England, won one and drew two of their three group games. Iceland have done well to score four goals considering how defensively they set up, and so far they’ve recorded an average of 35% ball possession, the lowest of all 24 teams at this year’s finals. They’ve also only managed 21 attempts on goal, fewer than any other side, but with nine of those 21 being on target it’s easy to see why Strakarnir Okkar – or Our Boys as they’re known – have proved so effective in front of goal.

With only 481 passes completed over the course of three group games, 635 fewer than England, it looks as if Iceland will once again have to surrender the majority of possession to England and hope to catch them on the counter attack, but if England are ruthless I think the tournament underdogs could find it hard to keep themselves in the game. I’m backing an England win in 90 minutes.

Head-to-Head

The two sides have only met twice prior to tomorrow’s meeting, with the last encounter coming back in 2004 when England warmed up for that year’s European Championship with a 6-1 thrashing over Iceland. I think it’s safe to say the game will be a lot closer this time around.

To score – Wayne Rooney 15/8

The Manchester United captain has been one of England’s most impressive players in France so far, leading and controlling games from the middle of the park with a range of passing. Rooney has registered seven shots on goal in three appearances at this year’s championships; three on target, two off target and the other two blocked. Despite taking up a deeper role Rooney has still posed an attacking threat, and with the responsibility of taking penalties and the occasional free kick, Rooney to score is never a bad bet. Back odds of 15/8 for the England captain to score at any time on Monday night.

Under 2.5 goals – 4/7

Iceland look set to play defensively on Monday night in the hope that they’ll catch England on the counter attack, and unless England can finally find their shooting boots I’m expecting a low-scoring game. Two of each side’s three group games had under 2.5 goals scored, and it’s difficult to see Iceland scoring especially when you consider the amount of ball possession England have had in their previous matches. You can back odds of 4/7 for under 2.5 goals in this one.

Match odds – England 1/2

I think England will dominate the game, much like they did against Slovakia in their previous match, but they’ll need to find that killer finish in front of goal if they’re to progress against an effective counter-attacking side. I don’t think there’ll be many goals in the game, but I recommend backing odds of 1/2 for England to reach the quarter-finals in normal time. The draw, and the need for extra time and maybe even penalties, is priced at 3/1, and you can back odds of 8/1 for Iceland to win in normal time.

Writer’s prediction: England 1 – 0 Iceland

*Odds correct at the time of publication, click here for all the latest odds on upcoming football matches.

Hungary v Portugal Betting Preview

Back Portugal to secure qualification with a win

Hungary

Hungary are taking part in their first major tournament for 30 years, and with a win and a draw in their opening two games they look set to make it through to the last 16, whether that be as group winners, runners-up or as one of the best third-place sides. After securing a comfortable 2-0 win over Austria in their opening game, Hungary netted a late equaliser against Iceland on matchday two to claim a valuable point and send them two points clear at the top of Group F.

Bernd Storck’s men are currently fourth in the possession table with an average of 59% ball possession over their opening two games. They also have the fifth-highest goals per game ratio (1.5), with only four teams registering a better shot on target to shot percentage thus far (44%). Hungary are very much one of the underdogs at this year’s tournament and so there is no heavy expectation to perform resting on their shoulders. With no real pressure, Hungary have been able to play exciting attacking football and so far it has paid off, but I think Portugal will be too much of a challenge for them on Wednesday night, and I’m backing a Portugal victory in Lyon.

Portugal

The 2004 European Championship runners-up have been frustrated at this year’s tournament so far with two draws in their opening two games. A win on Wednesday night would secure their place in the next round, however a draw could still be enough to see them through as one of the best third-place finishers. Portugal have only scored once so far, and that goal came in their 1-1 draw against Iceland on matchday one.

Despite his side’s lack of goals, manager Fernando Santos has seen his side produce the second-highest number of attempts on goal (50) behind only England (65), with the second-highest number of shots on target (16).                                   Portugal also have the joint highest possession of the ball (63%) along with Germany, as well as the fifth highest pass success rate (89%). Portugal haven’t played badly, in fact they’ve been impressive when in possession of the ball and creating chances, but they’ve lacked that cutting edge in front of goal, and that could cost them if they are to make it through to the last 16.

Head-to-Head

Portugal have never lost to Hungary in the ten meetings between the two sides, winning seven and drawing three. Portugal have won the last four, scoring ten and conceding just one, but the last time the two teams met was back in 2009 during qualifying for the 2010 World Cup. Both teams are playing well and need a good result, but Portugal should be too strong for Hungary on the night.

To score – Cristiano Ronaldo 4/5

Cristiano Ronaldo has struggled to find the goalscoring touch that we’ve seen so frequently over the years for both club and country, with no goals in his opening two games. The Portuguese forward has registered more attempts on goal than nine teams so far, producing 22 shots in 180 minutes of football. His penalty miss against Austria summed up his tournament so far, but I think it’s only a matter of time before he finds the net, and I recommend backing odds of 4/5 for Cristiano Ronaldo to score at any time.

Under 2.5 goals – 8/13

Three quarters (21 out of 28) of the games so far have produced under 2.5 goals, and with Portugal and Hungary conceding just one goal each, it looks as if we could see another low-scoring game on Wednesday night. Portugal will be desperate to record a victory to secure their place in the last 16, whereas Hungary only need a draw to book a spot in the next round, so I’m expecting Hungary to set up defensively and play for a 0-0. You can back odds of 8/13 for under 2.5 goals in this one.

Match odds – Portugal 4/9

Despite drawing both of their games and only scoring one goal, Portugal have been one of the more impressive teams when on the ball at this year’s tournament. A Portugal win is priced at 4/9, and I’m backing them to pick up a vital first victory on Wednesday night. The draw is priced at 10/3, whereas you can pick up odds of 9/1 for a Hungary win.

Writer’s prediction: Hungary 0 – 1 Portugal  

*Odds correct at the time of publication, click here for all the latest odds on upcoming football matches.

Belgium v Italy Betting Preview

Back Belgium to take Group E advantage with a win

Belgium

Form

A place at the World Cup in 2014 ended Belgium’s 12-year absence at a major tournament. The runners-up at the 1980 European Championship have won only four of their 12 games at Euro finals, but their recent form and talented squad suggests that they could go a long way at this year’s tournament. Belgium are unbeaten in their last three games, winning two and drawing one. Since the end of qualifying in 2015 Marc Wilmots’ men have lost only once, and they’ve scored 21 goals in their last nine games. However, the Red Devils have only kept one clean sheet in those nine, so Italy will know they have a chance on Monday night.

Qualification: Group B – 1^st

Belgium topped Group B in qualifying with 23 points from their ten games, edging out Wales by a mere two points. They only lost once during their qualification campaign and that came against Chris Coleman’s men. They had a relatively easy ride through to the finals, so they’ll need to step up their game this summer to make it to the latter stages of the competition.

Italy

Form

Italy are Europe’s most successful team at the World Cup with four wins, however the Azzurri have only ever lifted one European Championship trophy, back in 1968. They secured a place at their sixth consecutive European Championship after a strong qualifying campaign, and with two final appearances in the last four Euros Italy will feel as if they have a good chance of posing a threat to the big teams this summer. Antonio Conte’s men have only won three of their six friendlies leading up to the tournament, however two clean sheets in their last two showed real signs of their defensive stability. They’ve also scored in their last ten internationals.

Qualification: Group H – 1^st

Italy went unbeaten in their ten qualifying games, winning seven and drawing three. Despite only conceding seven goals, they managed to score just 14, the second lowest total of the nine group winners – only Portugal (11) scored fewer.

Head-to-Head

The last match between the two sides ended in a 3-1 win for Belgium back in November 2015, meaning Italy have now only won two of the last seven meetings. However, of the four meetings at European Championships between the two Belgium have only won once, meaning we could well see a close game on Monday night.

To score first – Romelu Lukaku 5/1

The Everton powerhouse has scored in his last four international appearances, and at the young age of 23, 15 goals in 45 caps for his country is not a bad return. He’s also opened the scoring for his side in all of the last four matches in which he’s scored, and I’m backing him to score the first goal of the game on Monday night at 5/1.

Over 2.5 goals – Yes 6/4

There have been over 2.5 goals in seven of Belgium’s last nine games, and in five of Italy’s last eight. In the last five meetings between the two sides, over 2.5 goals have been scored on four occasions, including Belgium’s 3-1 win over the Azzurri back in November. I recommend backing over 2.5 goals in this one with odds of 6/4.

Match odds – Belgium 8/5

Belgium are priced as favourites heading into this one, and you can back odds of 8/5 for Marc Wilmots’ to register a win in their opening game. Italy, who have only won one of their last four opening games at major competitions, are priced at 21/10 to take all three points, with odds of 21/10 also available for the draw.

Writer’s prediction: Belgium 2 – 1 Italy

*Odds correct at the time of publication, click here for all the latest odds on upcoming football matches.

England v Russia Betting Preview

Back England and Russia to open with a draw

England

Form

It’s been 50 years since England lifted the World Cup, their first and only major silverware. In fact England are the only team to have won the World Cup but failed to lift the famous Henri Delaunay Cup. They twice reached the semi-finals in 1968 and 1996, but have only won 9 of their 27 games at European Championship finals. Roy Hodgson’s men will be confident heading into this year’s competition knowing they have their best chance in years of making it to the latter stages of the tournament, and 16 wins from their last 20 internationals, including four of their last five friendlies, will do that confidence no harm.

Qualification: Group E – 1^st

England stormed to first place in Group E with ten wins from ten, scoring 31 goals and conceding just three. Despite having a relatively easy group, two impressive wins over Switzerland showcased their ability to win against the stronger teams, and qualification for the round of 16 at this year’s finals should be a simple task for Hodgson’s men.

Russia

Form

Since winning the inaugural Championship as the Soviet Union back in 1960, before finishing as runners-up three times, Russia have only made it through the group stage once. In 2008, under the management of Guus Hiddink, Russia made it all the way to the quarter-finals, and they’ll be hoping for similar fortunes this time around. Russia have scored in their last 12 games, however they haven’t won in their last three after losing to France and the Czech Republic as well as drawing with Serbia. Two goals against the French as well as a 1-0 win over Portugal back in November proved that Leonid Slutsky’s men are capable of putting up a challenge against the big teams, something England will be wary of on Saturday.

Qualification: Group G – 2^nd

Russia did well to qualify automatically from their group, especially with Austria and Sweden also part of Group G. Austria topped the group, whilst Russia relegated Sweden down into third where they would later qualify for the finals themselves. Russia won six of their ten qualifiers, drawing twice and losing the other two to group winners Austria. They have a strong team with a very good chance of progressing to the next round of the competition, but I’m predicting a draw between these two sides.

Head-to-Head

Russia won the last meeting between the two 2-1 back in October 2007, before England went on to fail to qualify for the Euro 2008 finals. England won the reverse fixture 3-0, and so Saturday’s game will be difficult to call, despite England heading in as odds-on favourites.

To score – Harry Kane 11/8

The England and Tottenham sensation has only made 12 senior appearances for England and already he’s his country’s number one centre forward. With five goals since making his debut against Lithuania last year, Harry Kane has developed into one of his country’s most prolific strikers, and his standard of finishing in front of goal will make it difficult for any defence to keep him out. He netted 28 times in 44 appearances for Spurs last season, and with goals against Germany and Turkey leading up to the competition, I’m backing Kane to find the net in this Group B opening match on Saturday night. Back odds of 11/8 for him to score at any time.

Under 2.5 goals – 8/13

Both sides produced impressive defensive displays during their respective qualification campaigns, with England conceding just three goals and Russia only four in their ten matches. Both sides will be desperate not to lose their opening game and I’m predicting a closely-fought affair with few big chances. Back odds of 8/13 for under 2.5 goals in the game.

Match odds – Draw 12/5

England look as if they have their best chance of going a long way in a major competition for a long time, and they’ll be hoping to kick things off with a win on Saturday. The Three Lions are odds-on favourites to win the tie, priced at 10/11, while you can back odds of 15/4 for Russia to inflict an opening-day defeat on Roy Hodgson’s men. Both sides will want to avoid defeat at the weekend, so I recommend backing the draw at 12/5.

Writer’s prediction: England 1 – 1 Russia

*Odds correct at the time of publication, click here for all the latest odds on upcoming football matches.

France v Romania Betting Preview

Back France to kick off EURO 2016 with a win

France

Form

The UEFA European Championship 2016 gets underway in little over two days, and the hosts are favourites to lift the famous Henri Delaunay Cup on July 10. France are hosting the Championships for the second time, having held and won the competition back in 1984. In fact, the last two times Les Bleus have hosted a major international competition they’ve gone on to win it. Fate?

Didier Deschamps’ men have won eight of their last nine internationals, scoring 21 goals in the process. They’ve netted 15 times in the last five games they’ve won, including two 3-2s, a 3-0 and a 4-2 in their last four outings. Their prolific strike force and strength in depth throughout the squad will give France every chance of claiming their first European title in 16 years.

Qualification: No qualification (hosts)

As hosts, France did not have to qualify for the finals. Instead Deschamps’ side played out ten friendlies against the five sides in Group A of qualifying, losing just once. Albania, a side France drew and lost to in their two meetings, will be France’s opponents for their second group game on June 15.

Romania

Form

Tricolorii, or the Tricolours, reached the quarter-finals back in 2000, their best ever finish in the competition. They’ve played 13 matches at European Championship finals but have only won once, beating England with a last-gasp winner in their round of 16 meeting in 2000. Anghel Iordanescu’s men have only won two of their last six internationals, but after a 5-1 victory over Georgia and a 4-3 defeat to Ukraine, Romania have scored eight goals in their last two games. It won’t be the easiest of tests for France on Friday.

Qualification: Group F – 2^nd

Romania qualified for the finals after finishing second in Group F behind group winners Hungary. Despite having the easiest of the nine groups Romania did well to go their ten matches unbeaten, winning five and drawing five. What’s more impressive is that they only conceded two goals in the process, and despite having little chance of beating the hosts on Friday, Romania would be a good bet to progress to the round of 16.

Head-to-Head

The two sides have met nine times since 1994, with France winning four and drawing the other five. Romania have only scored once in the last three meetings and haven’t recorded a win against the French since 1972. France look set to win this won.

To score – Olivier Giroud 6/5

After netting twice against Scotland earlier this week, the Arsenal forward has scored 17 goals in 47 international appearances for France. He also has seven goals in his last five starts, and looks set to start in Friday’s opener. With such an impressive goal-scoring record leading up to the tournament, I’m backing Olivier Giroud to win the Golden Boot at this year’s Championship, and back odds of 6/5 for Giroud to net against Romania on Friday night.

Under 2.5 goals – 4/5

Despite both sides scoring nine or more goals in their last three internationals, I think we’ll see less than three goals in this one due to the strength of both teams’ defences. Romania conceded just two goals in their ten qualifying matches, and there have been under 2.5 goals in five of the last seven meetings between the two sides. I’m backing under 2.5 goals in this one at odds of 4/5.

Match odds – France 3/10

France, priced at 3/10, are odds on favourites to win the tie, and it’s no surprise given the strength of their side. A victory for Romania is priced at 12/1, with odds of 9/2 for the draw.

Writer’s prediction: France 2 – 0 Romania

*Odds correct at the time of publication, click here for all the latest odds on upcoming football matches.

Back a Hull City return to the Premier League with a win

Hull City

After finishing fourth in the Championship table and only six points off an automatic promotion place, Hull City will be kicking themselves knowing that a place in the Premier League could, and should have, been sealed by the end of the 46-game season. Steve Bruce’s men beat Derby County 3-2 on aggregate to progress to the final at Wembley after surviving a late Derby comeback in the second leg.

Hull only won four of their last eight league games, and in that time they encountered damaging defeats to both bottom side Bolton and fellow promotion-chasing Derby. One thing that Steve Bruce’s side struggled with for the majority of the season was consistency, and Hull only managed to win more than two consecutive games on two occasions over the course of the campaign. They lost 11 league games, one more than Saturday’s opponents, and have only kept two clean sheets in their last ten games. They have, however, found the net 18 times in their last nine games, and I’m backing them to seal promotion into the Premiership with a win in normal time on Saturday.

Sheffield Wednesday

Manager Carlos Carvalhal will be over the moon that his side managed to reach the play-off final after finishing 15 points behind Brighton and Hove Albion, the side they beat 3-1 on aggregate to secure their place at Wembley in two days’ time. However, the 2-0 home win over Brighton was one of only two wins in their last eight games, and their recent form has been far from spectacular.

Four straight wins between late March and early April game Wednesday enough momentum to seal a top-six finish, and with seven clean sheets in their last 11 games, Wednesday will know they are more than capable of putting up a fight for Steve Bruce’s men this weekend. They haven’t featured in the Premier League since the club was relegated from England’s top division at the end of the 1999/2000 season, and I think they’ll have to wait at least another year to end that run. I’m backing Hull City to win the tie.

Head-to-Head

Sheffield Wednesday are unbeaten in the last four meetings between the two sides, drawing the last three, but they’ve only won three of the 14 encounters between the two since 2004. They’ve also managed to keep four clean sheets against Hull in the last eight meetings, however Hull City were the more impressive of the two teams over the course of the season and I think Steve Bruce’s experience will lead the Tigers to victory on Saturday.

To score – Abel Hernandez 7/5

The 25-year-old Uruguayan striker has had a fantastic season for the Tigers, scoring 21 goals in 42 Championship appearances. He was the league’s third top scorer behind Burnley’s Andre Gray and Fulham’s Ross McCormack, and has also scored in two of his last three appearances, including a goal in the 3-0 first-leg win over Derby County a fortnight ago. I would recommend backing Hernandez to find the net at any time with odds of 7/5.

Both teams to score in 90 minutes – No 3/4

Both teams have scored in only one of the previous eight meetings between the two clubs. Wednesday have conceded in six of their last nine games, whereas Hull have found the net in seven of their last nine. I’m backing Hull City to win the tie on Saturday afternoon, priced at 3/4.

Match odds – Hull City 13/10

Both teams will be desperate to win the tie, especially with the amount of money on the line for the side that makes it to England’s top football division. Hull finished nine points clear of Wednesday in the Championship table, and stood a real chance of automatic promotion before a couple of poor results let them down towards the end of the season. I think Hull City under Steve Bruce will have the experience and desire to win the game in 90 minutes, and I recommend backing odds of 13/10 for them to do so. A Sheffield Wednesday win in normal time is priced at 13/5, with the draw, and therefore the need for extra time and maybe penalties, currently standing at 9/4.

Writer’s prediction: Hull City 2 – 0 Sheffield Wednesday

*Odds correct at the time of publication, click here for all the latest odds on upcoming football matches.

Real Madrid v Atletico Madrid Betting Preview

Back a draw in 90 minutes in the Champions League final

Real Madrid

It was a disappointing end to an impressive domestic season for Real Madrid, who finished one point behind Barcelona in second place in La Liga with 90 points, their best tally in the last three seasons. Zinedine Zidane’s men ended strongly with only one defeat from their final 17 games in all competitions, including their last 12 league games. They finished two points ahead of Saturday’s opponents Atletico Madrid, and they’ll be hoping to maintain their superiority of their local rivals with a Champions League victory at the weekend.

The Blancos scored in all but three of their last 29 games in all competitions and netted a stunning tally of 137 goals over the course of the season. Apart from a 2-0 away defeat to Wolfsburg in their quarter-final first leg, Real’s Champions League form has been superb, scoring eight goals in their six games since the first knockout stage and 27 in total. Their defence has also been excellent, keeping five clean sheets in their last seven games in all competitions and nine in their last 15. Real Madrid have featured in 13 Champions League finals, winning ten, with their most recent triumph coming over Atletico back in 2014. I think Zidane’s men will be made to work for their 11^th trophy, and I’m backing a draw in normal time.

Atletico Madrid

Atletico Madrid had yet another remarkable season under Diego Simeone, finishing three points behind title winners Barcelona and qualifying for their second Champions League final in three seasons. With only one victory in their last three in all competitions, including a 2-1 defeat to Levante on the penultimate weekend of the domestic season, Simeone’s men will head into the final on the back of a short poor run of form, and with only five goals in their last six Champions League games, they’ll be looking for a big performance on Saturday night.

In April, Los Colchoneros conceded only four goals in nine games in all competitions, including four straight 1-0 wins. They defeated both Barcelona and Bayern Munich in the previous two rounds and proved their ability to outplay world class opposition both in defence and in attack. Simeone’s side have reached the final twice in the last three seasons and three times in their history, but they’ve never won the competition. I think they’ll struggle to break down a resilient Real Madrid defence and I’m backing them to lose the tie in extra time.

Head-to-Head

After beating Zinedine Zidane’s men 1-0 at the Bernabeu back in February, Atletico’s recent record against Real is promising, with three wins for their last eight meetings. However, in the 28 encounters between the two sides since the 1993/1994 La Liga season, Atletico have won only four. Three of the last six meetings have ended in draws (in 90 minutes) and I think we’re likely to see another draw on Saturday.

Under 2.5 goals – Yes 3/5

In seven of the last ten meetings there have been under 2.5 goals, and with two impeccable defences on show on Saturday night I think it’s unlikely that we’ll see three goals in normal time. Atletico have kept 14 clean sheets in their last 21 games in all competitions, with Real keeping nine in their last 15. I’m backing under 2.5 goals in 90 minutes priced at 3/5.

Both teams to score in 90 minutes – No 4/5

This has been the case in four of the last eight meetings between the two sides, and I don’t think we’re likely to see many goals on Saturday night. I’m backing a 0-0 stalemate in normal time, but if either side was to win I’d back Real Madrid, and I would fancy them to win to nil. Back odds of 4/5 for at least one side to keep a clean sheet.

Match odds – Draw 11/5

Both sides have had excellent seasons despite not winning a domestic trophy. The final in 2014 was a hard-fought encounter between two evenly-matched sides, and history shows just how close games involving these two teams can be. With both sides boasting impressive defensive records this season I’m backing the Champions League final to end in a draw, priced at 11/5, and subsequently go to extra time. A Real Madrid win in 90 minutes is priced at 31/20, with odds of 8/11 for Zidane’s side to lift the trophy. You can collect odds of 85/40 for Atletico to win the tie in normal time, or 11/10 for Simeone’s men to win their first Champions League trophy.

Writer’s prediction: Real Madrid 0 – 0 Atletico Madrid (Real win AET)

*Odds correct at the time of publication, click here for all the latest odds on upcoming football matches.

Manchester United v Crystal Palace Betting Preview

Back Manchester United to seal FA Cup glory with a win

Manchester United

After their convincing 3-1 win over Bournemouth in Tuesday’s re-arranged final league game, Manchester United will head into this weekend’s FA Cup final with a lot of confidence. Tuesday’s win ensured United of Europa League football next season, something an FA Cup win would have secured anyway. Louis van Gaal’s men have seen off tough Premier League opposition in West Ham and more recently Everton on their way to the final, and with only one defeat in their last seven games, United will know FA Cup glory on Saturday is well within their grasp.

The only thing that will worry Louis van Gaal is his side’s often unreliable defence, after keeping only five clean sheets in their last 13 games in all competitions. However, the Red Devils haven’t conceded more than one goal in any of their six FA Cup appearances this season, and I can’t see a Crystal Palace side who have struggled in the final third for the majority of the season to pose a serious threat to David de Gea’s goal. United’s most recent FA Cup victory came back in 2004 when they defeated Millwall 3-0, before going on to lose to Arsenal on penalties the following year. They’ve won the competition 11 times, and with four wins in their last six Wembley appearances, I wouldn’t be surprised if they made it 12 on Saturday. I’m backing Manchester United to win the tie.

Crystal Palace

Despite a poor league campaign, Crystal Palace still have the chance to lift domestic silverware after reaching the FA Cup final in impressive fashion. The Eagles defeated four Premier League teams on their way to the final: Tottenham, Southampton, Stoke and most recently Watford. Alan Pardew’s men have shown resilience and character in what has been a difficult season for the club, and conceded only two goals in their six FA Cup matches to make it to the last two.

Palace ended the Premier League season in 15^th position, only five points above the relegation zone. They’ve also only won four of their last 14 games in all competitions, two of which came in the FA Cup. They’ve also conceded in 14 of their last 18 matches, and with United scoring in 11 of their last 12, Alan Pardew’s side will have good reason to fear van Gaal’s team on Saturday. Palace have never won the FA Cup, and only reached the final for the second time in their history this year. The only other time they reached the last two came back in 1990, when they were beaten by none other than Manchester United. I’m backing history to repeat itself this weekend.

Head-to-Head

Crystal Palace haven’t beaten United in their last 18 attempts, with the Red Devils winning 14 and drawing the other four. A League Cup win for the Eagles back in 2011 came in extra time, after the two sides played out a 1-1 draw in 90 minutes. Palace’s last win over United came back in 1991 when they came away 3-0 victors, however I can’t see them beating a strong Manchester United side to the trophy this weekend.

To score – Marcus Rashford 15/8

The teenager has gone from an unknown call-up to Manchester United’s FA Cup final frontman in the space of a matter of months. Rashford has scored seven goals in only 17 senior appearances for United this season, including one in three FA Cup starts, netting a stunner against West Ham in their quarter-final replay. He’s also booked a place in Roy Hodgson’s provisional 26-man England squad for the European Championships in June, as well as playing a vital role in United’s 3-1 win over Bournemouth on Tuesday. He’s shown composure under pressure and no signs of nerves on the big stage, and I’m backing him to find the net on Saturday, priced at 15/8.

Both teams to score in 90 minutes – Yes 5/4

Although I’m backing United to win the game, I think it’s likely that they’ll concede at some point during the 90 minutes. The Red Devils have conceded in all but two of their six FA Cup games this season, and although Palace have only conceded two in their five appearances, United’s 12 goals in the competition suggests that Palace’s defence will be in for a tough afternoon. I recommend backing good odds of 5/4 for both teams to score.

Match odds – Manchester United 8/11

United, unsurprisingly, are the favourites to lift the trophy on Saturday, and when you consider the recent form of both these sides it looks very much like it’s theirs to lose. You can collect odds of 8/11 for van Gaal’s men to win the game in 90 minutes. Never rule out an upset in the FA Cup, and Crystal Palace head into the game with odds of 9/2 to lift the trophy in normal time. The draw, and therefore the need for extra time, is priced at 13/5.

Writer’s prediction: Manchester United 2 – 1 Crystal Palace

*Odds correct at the time of publication, click here for all the latest odds on upcoming football matches.

Liverpool v Sevilla Betting Preview

Back a draw in 90 minutes in the Europa League final

Liverpool

Despite a poor finish in the Premier League, Liverpool have definitely seen an improvement in their style and quality of football under Jurgen Klopp this season. The Reds finished eighth in the Premier League table, but only six points off fourth-place Manchester City. They’ve only lost two of their last 13 games in all competitions, ending the domestic season with two straight 1-1 draws against Chelsea and West Brom. The Anfield club would guarantee Champions League football next season if they were to lift the trophy on Wednesday night, an achievement which would act as redemption for their disappointing league finish.

Their Europa League form has been impressive with only one defeat in their 14 fixtures in the competition this season, with the only loss coming in the first leg of their semi-final against Villarreal. The Reds were unbeaten in the group stage and have also scored eight goals in their last three games in the competition. Goals haven’t been a problem for the Merseyside club this season, and Jurgen Klopp’s men have found the net in 19 of their last 20 matches in all competitions. They’ve won the UEFA Cup three times, with their last success coming back in 2001 when they defeated Deportivo Alaves 5-4 after extra time to lift the ‘Coupe UEFA’, and with their last European final ending in a 2-1 defeat to AC Milan back in 2007, Liverpool will go out all guns blazing on Wednesday night and I wouldn’t be surprised to see them lift the trophy once more.

Sevilla

Sevilla’s domestic season was poor by their standards as they finished the campaign seventh in the table with 52 points, their worst finish in three seasons. Los Rojiblancos lost their final three games in La Liga, a run that won’t give them a great deal of confidence heading into the biggest match of their season. Their Europa League form has been much more impressive, and despite losing two of their eight games in the competition, Unai Emery’s side produced two strong performances to see off Shakhtar Donetsk 5-3 on aggregate in the semi-final.

Despite not being the favourites heading into the game, Sevilla have history on their side which suggests that they have a very good chance of finishing the night with more European silverware in their hands. The Spanish club have won the competition four times, all of which have come in the last ten years. They’ll be looking to make it three Europa League titles in a row after defeating Benfica and Dnipro in 2014 and 2015 respectively. I’m backing Sevilla to take the game to extra time with a draw, but I can see Liverpool taking the spoils come the end of the night.

Head-to-Head

The two sides have never met in any competition, and the bookies have got both teams priced relatively evenly for Wednesday night’s big final, with Liverpool the marginal favourites to win their fourth UEFA Cup/Europa League.

To score – Kevin Gameiro 13/8

The Frenchman has been on fire for Sevilla this season, scoring 28 goals for the Spanish side in all competitions. He also has seven goals in his team’s eight Europa League appearances this season, including three over the two semi-final legs against Shakhtar Donetsk. He’ll pose a real threat to Liverpool’s defence, and I’m backing him to find the net in the final, priced at 13/8.

Both teams to score in 90 minutes – Yes 4/5

Both teams will be desperate to claim European glory in what has been a mediocre season for both sides in their respective league campaigns, and I’m expecting a fast-paced game full of attacking football. Both teams have scored in the last three European finals Liverpool have been involved in, and this has also been the case in 11 of the Merseyside club’s last 15 games this season. Both sides have found the net in four of Sevilla’s last five games in all competitions, and I’m backing both Liverpool and Sevilla to score on Wednesday night with odds of __.

Match odds – Draw 12/5

Both sides have the talent within their ranks to score goals and provide a strong challenge for their opponents, which is why this match is so difficult to call. Liverpool’s season has improved under Klopp, who has guided the Reds to a European final in his maiden season at Anfield. Liverpool to win the tie in 90 minutes is priced at 7/5. Sevilla will be looking to make it five Europa League wins in 11 seasons, and their third on the bounce, and I wouldn’t rule out a win for the Spanish side on the night as they’ve also got plenty to play for. You can pick up odds of 11/5 for a victory for Unai Emery’s team in 90 minutes. The draw looks the most likely result to me, and I’m backing odds of 12/5 for the two sides to take the game to extra time and possibly even penalties.

Writer’s prediction: Liverpool 1 – 1 Sevilla (AET) – Liverpool win on penalties

*Odds correct at the time of publication, click here for all the latest odds on upcoming football matches.