Category: Soccer

Betting tips for November 7

Everton v Man United
Neither side is in great form ahead of this contest with Everton losing their last two EPL games and Manchester United without a win in their last two league games. There is a lot pressure building up on United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer whose side are 15th in the table just four points clear of the relegation zone. Victory for Everton will get their season back on track and keep them in the mix while possibly forcing a change of manager at Old Trafford.
Recommended bet: Everton to win

Crystal Palace v Leeds
Both these sides have a total of 10 points from their first seven games, but they have found winning tough in recent weeks. Palace have one win in their last five while Leeds have one win in their last four. Leeds have failed to score a first half goal in their last five. Both teams to score has paid out in the last four meetings while Palace has scored in the last 10 contests with Leeds. Leeds have won all three games this season when they have scored the first goal.
Recommended bet: Under 2.5 goals

Chelsea v Sheffield Utd
Chelsea have one of the best defenses with five clean sheets in their last five league and cup games and they are facing a Sheffield United side who has found the opponents’ net just three times. United has not led at half-time in the league while Chelsea has only trailed once at the break. The second half might see most of the action given the fact 12 of Chelsea’s 16 goals have come after half-time while two of the three goals the Blades have scored have come in the second half.
Recommended bet: Chelsea to win to nil

West Ham v Fulham
West Ham won both meetings the last time Fulham were in the top flight two seasons ago by two-goal margins. On the scoresheet in both those contests was Michail Antonio who will be aiming to get on the scoresheet again in this contest. The Hammers have opened the scoring in four of their last five games and if they get the first goal in this clash, it will be hard to see Fulham recovering to win. Fulham has lost all five EPL games in which they gave up the first goal.
Recommended bet: West Ham to win to nil

West Brom v Tottenham
Under 2.5 total goals has paid out in the two meetings during the 2017/18 season and in five of the last six. It’s easy to see Tottenham score, but it’s at the back questions are asked if they can stop other teams from scoring. West Brom has only managed one goal in their last  four. Tottenham has been quick out of the blocks in recent matches with six goals scored in the opening 16 minutes of their last four games. Harry Kane and Son Heung-min should have a field day against this West Brom defense.
Recommended bet: Over 2.5 total goals

Leicester v Wolves
I hate to remind everyone that when these two sides met last season, they failed to score a single goal. Wolves has scored the first goal in their last four league games while Leicester has opened the scoring in their last two. Leicester has failed to score in their last two home games at the King Power Stadium while Wolves has only scored once in their last two away games. Jamie Vardy continues to score goals even at the age of 33 which is a testament to his fitness and work ethic.
Recommended bet: Draw

Man City v Liverpool
Both games last season saw exactly four total goals scored as both sides won their home clash against their rival. Liverpool’s last two EPL wins have been by a single goal and City’s last two wins in the league have also been by the smallest of margins. Liverpool has failed to keep a clean sheet in their last five matches which have also seen over 2.5 total goals scored. We expect City’s games to produce plenty of goals, but their last last four domestic games have seen under 2.5 total goals scored. Both teams have scored in every league game they have played so far this campaign.
Recommended bet: Both teams to score

Arsenal v Aston Villa
The home team won each meeting when these two sides met last season which is a good omen for the Gunners. Arsenal’s last three league games have produced a total of one goal in each of them. Will there be more than that this time? Neither side has been prolific in the first half in recent games. Arsenal is without a first half goal in their last four while it’s three games and counting for Villa without a goal before the interval. Three of Villa’s last four goals scored have come in injury time at the end of their last three matches.
Recommended bet: Arsenal to win

Betting tips for October 31

Sheffield United v Manchester City:
Don’t be surprised if this game fails to produce many goals. All eight EPL meetings between these two sides have seen under 2.5 total goals pay out. And United has only managed to score three goals in their six games so far this season and two of them have been from the penalty spot. City has scored first in four of their five fixtures and will be expected to do so again in this contest.
Recommended bet: Under 2.5 total goals

Burnley v Chelsea:
In a contrast to the previous fixture, this fixture has a tendency to produce goals. The last six EPL clashes have seen over 2.5 total goals land and that includes Chelsea’s last visit to Turf Moor when the Blues won 4-2 thanks to Christian Pulisic’s hat-trick. Chelsea will be expected to win this one comfortably having scored three, four and three in their last three league games. Burnley, on the other hand, has scored just once in their last four.
Recommended bet: Chelsea win

Liverpool v West Ham:
Liverpool is unbeaten in their last eight games with West Ham and the last five contests at Anfield has seen three or more total goals scored. Mo Salah and Sadio Mane have good scoring records against the Hammers with six in six and five and five respectively. However, the champions have only managed to keep one clean sheet in the league this campaign. West Ham are unbeaten in their last four games having scored five times in the final 10 minutes.
Recommended bet: Over 2.5 total goals

Aston Villa v Southampton:
Southampton has won the last three meetings by exactly two goals and their two wins this season – including last week’s against Chelsea – have been by exactly two goals. Six of the last seven meetings have goals for both the Villans and the Saints who have kept clean sheets in three of their last four league games. Southampton has also scored first in four of their last five. Villa began the season with 11 goals scored in their first three but have managed just one in their last two.
Recommended bet: BTTS

Newcastle v Everton:
Everton will be looking to bounce back from their first loss of the season at Southampton last weekend, but it won’t be an easy trip to Newcastle. Dominic Calvert-Lewin is second on the goalscoring list and he will be aiming to find the net again against a team he has scored four times in his last three meetings and that includes a goal on his last two visits to St James’ Park. Both teams to score has happened in the last four EPL meetings and it has also happened in Newcastle’s last four this season.
Recommended bet: BTTS

Manchester United v Arsenal:
These has been exactly two goals scored in the last three meetings. Arsenal has scored in the last 12 games against the Gunners but they go into this game having lost their last two EPL games this season 1-0. United has only scored the opening goal in one of their five league games this season so the first goal will be crucial in this contest. In the last 10 minutes of United’s league games this season, they have scored five times and given up two goals.
Recommended bet: BTTS

Tottenham v Brighton:
Tottenham have been on the scoreboard early in their recent league games with five goals in the opening 16 minutes of their last three, but it’s at the end of games that is a concern for Jose Mourinho’s side. In their last five, they have conceded five goals in the final 10 minutes which has cost them four points. There hasn’t been a 0-0 draw in the last 19 meetings and with over 2.5 total goals landing in the previous three meetings, that run should be extended to 20.
Recommended bet: Over 2.5 total goals

Fulham v West Brom:
This has all the potential to be a tie which would fit in well with recent meetings. The last four clashes between these two sides have ended all square and three of them were 1-1 ties. And for good measure, three of West Brom’s last four have been draws. Fulham, who has yet to lead at half-time this season, has only opened the scoring once this season.
Recommended bet: Tie

Leeds United v Leicester:
The last four meetings have produced two or fewer goals and that could be the outcome in this fixture. Only two of Leicester’s 13 goals have been scored before half-time while four of Leeds’ 12 goals have come before the interval. Leeds has not scored a first half goal in their last four while Leicester has gone three games without finding their opponents’ net before half-time. Both teams to score has not landed in either side’s last two games.
Recommended bet: Under 2.5 total goals. 

EPL betting tips for October 24

West Ham v Manchester City
West Ham could do with a win to erase some bitter memories given to them by Manchester City in recent seasons. Pep Guardiola’s side are looking to beat the Hammers for the tenth successive game in league and cup competitions. West Ham have failed to score in the last four meetings but the Hammers are a better side these days. I’d expect this game to be closer than the ones City have won comfortably in recent seasons with both teams scoring at least one goal.
Suggested bet: Both teams to score

Fulham v Crystal Palace
This is a game Palace should win, but it would be easy for them to take Fulham for granted. Sooner or later, the home side is going to win a game. If the Cottagers approach this game right, then they could register their first win of the season at the sixth time of asking. Palace has the better squad, but football doesn’t always follow logic like that. Last weekend was the first time Fulham scored first this season while Palace has opened the scoring three times. If Palace score first, then they should be able to see the job through and pick up the win.
Suggested bet: Crystal Palace to win  

Manchester Utd v Chelsea
Both Manchester United and Chelsea added to their squads before the transfer window closed. Forward Edinson Cavani could make his United debut after the free agent was signed following his release by Paris St-Germain at the end of last season. Scoring goals has not been the issue for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side, it’s stopping teams from scoring that many felt should have been addressed. Will United be able to stop Chelsea from scoring? Will Chelsea be able to stop United from scoring? I think the answer to both questions is no which should make this an exciting contest.
Suggested bet: Both teams to score

Liverpool v Sheffield Utd
Will Virgil Van Dijk’s knee injury derail Liverpool’s hopes of defending their EPL title? Quite possibly. Van Dijk was a rock in the middle of Liverpool’s defense last season and despite a few uncharacteristic errors this season, he was still a formidable defender. Scoring has been a major problem for Sheffield United with just two goals to show for 450 minutes of action – and one of those was a penalty. Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp took a risk withdrawing his front three with half an hour to go in their Champions League opener at Ajax, but it paid off in a 1-0 win. The trio of Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino should be fresh enough to cause a few problems.
Suggested bet: Liverpool HT/FT double

Southampton v Everton
There could well be goals in this contest. Both teams have scored in the last seven meetings between the two sides who are coming off ties last weekend. Everton twice came from behind to rescue a point against Liverpool while Southampton came from 2-0 down and 3-2 down to take a point in a 3-3 draw. Everton has been fun to watch this season. Their last four EPL games have seen three or more goals scored and there has been goals for them and the team they have been playing. In Danny Ings and Dominic Calvert-Lewin, both teams have strikers who are in great goalscoring form.
Suggested bet: Both teams to score

Wolves v Newcastle
Wolves come into this game on the back of successive 1-0 wins over two of the three promoted sides – Fulham and Leeds. They may not have been spectacular wins, but they got the job done. Wolves will be expected to get the job done again this time against a Newcastle beaten 4-1 last weekend. The 1-1 score has been a popular result in recent times with the last three meetings ending that way. Wolves should be too strong for their hosts, but there could be a goal for the Magpies.
Suggested bet: Both teams to score

Arsenal v Leicester
Neither of these sides are in great form right now. Leicester has lost it’s last two while Arsenal have lost two of their last three. These two sides have already met this season in the League Cup with Arsenal winning 2-0. Both managers made changes to their teams for that game and with a gap opening up between them and the leaders, this is a game that needs to be won if they are to stay in touch. There isn’t too much between these two sides and this could well end in a tie.
Suggested bet: Tie

Brighton v West Brom
Brighton might not be top of the table but the one thing you can say about the Seagulls is that they just don’t give up. Brighton has scored in the last minute of their previous three games and while they haven’t won any of them, it shows they just keep playing until the final whistle. West Brom has failed to score in their last two games and if they don’t start winning, then it could be a long season for the Baggies who have been outscored 10-1 in the second half of matches this season.
Suggested bet: Brighton to win 

Burnley v Tottenham
After losing to Everton in their season opener, pundits wrote off Tottenham’s chances of winning the league. But they are unbeaten in their last four and have welcomed back Gareth Bale who was the world’s most expensive footballer when he left Spurs for Real Madrid in 2013. Three of Tottenham’s last four EPL games have seen six or more goals scored. Burnley’s season so far has been uneventful with their first point picked last week in a boring goalless draw at West Brom. If Tottenham gets ahead early, this could and should be a comfortable win for the visiting team.
Suggested bet: Tottenham HT/FT

EPL betting tips October 3

Chelsea v Crystal Palace
Sooner or later, Chelsea will click and the sooner it happens, the more comfortable Frank Lamaprd will feel on the sidelines. A home win should be achieved this weekend against a Crystal Palace side that has is looking to bounce back from their loss to Everton last weekend. Lampard has included Christian Pulisic in his squad following a hamstring injury at the end of last season and he will bring  the best out of those around him.
Bet: Chelsea win

Everton v Brighton
Everton have won all six league and cup games they have played this season and they will be favorites to make it seven straight wins against Brighton who have lost to Manchester United twice in the last week. Brighton hit the woodwork five times in their EPL loss to the Red Devils last Saturday which cost them the game. Everton are getting the best out of forward Dominic Calvert-Lewin who has scored two hat-tricks already this season. The Toffees should be too strong this weekend.
Bet: Everton win

Leeds v Man City
This has all the potential to be the highest-scoring game of the weekend. It promises to be an intriguing battle between the two managers. Marcelo Bielsa loves to pit his wits against the best managers in the league and don’t be surprised if he has something up his sleeve to inflict a second successive loss on City. City are struggling in terms of fit forwards with Sergio Aguero still sidelined and he has been joined by Gabriel Jesus. Having said that, City have Kevin de Bruyne to pull their strings.
Bet: Man City win

Newcastle v Burnley
Don’t expect too many goals in this encounter as the two sides look to put disappointing starts behind them. Burnley have lost both games they have played this season while Newcastle have taken one point from their last two games after starting their campaign with a 2-0 win at West Ham. Burnley have one of the smallest squads in the league and it is already showing. Any more losses and the heat on manager Sean Dyche will increase. One goal could be all it takes to win this game and it could come from a set piece.
Bet Under 2.5 total goals 

Leicester v West Ham
Two of last weekend’s biggest winners meet at the King Power Stadium to open Sunday’s slate of EPL games. Leicester came away from the Etihad Stadium with a 5-2 win after conceding the opening goal to Manchester City. West Ham’s 4-0 win at home to Wolves on Sunday was equally impressive even though manager David Moyes took control of the Hammers from his home as he self isolates after testing positive for Covid-19. Leicester will start as favorites and with Jamie Vardy leading the league with five goals in three games, it’s hard to see the points leaving Leicester.
Bet: Leicester win  

Southampton v West Brom
West Brom has already given up 11 goals in their three games so far which is the most in the EPL. Nine of those goals have come in the second half which needs to be addressed swiftly if the Baggies are to avoid an immediate return to the Championship. Southamptongot their first win of the season last weekend at Burnley and they will fancy their chances of getting a second win this weekend.
Bet: Southampton win

Arsenal v Sheffield United
Sheffield United will hope the arrival of Rhian Brewster from Liverpool will be the answer to their goal scoring problem. The Blades are the only EPL team yet to score a goal. And they will do well to penetrate an Arsenal defense that is generally well set-up. Over 2.5 goals has paid out in Arsenal’s three matches so far this season, and if they can find their groove early, they could score over 2.5 goals themselves. Alexandre Lacazette is looking to score in his fourth successive EPL game.
Bet: Arsenal win

Wolves v Fulham
Wolves have yet to settle into the new signing and it seems manager Nuno Espirito Santo is unsure of his best XI. Last season he had one of the most settled squads in the EPL which made his team selection easy, but fatigue caught up with his players in the latter stages of the season which cost them a place in European. Fulham need to go to Plan ‘B’ after  three successive losses. Conceding early goals has been an issue for manager Scott Parker and if Wolves add to their early woes, then it could be another defeat for the Cottagers.
Bet: Wolves win

Man United v Tottenham
This fixture has a history of producing plenty of goals and there could well be goals this time around. Harry Kane has only scored once this season but he leads the EPL with five assists. In fact, Kane has been directly involved in Spurs’ last six league goals and after scoring a hat-trick to book Tottenham’s place in the Europa League group stage, the England forward could be the key to a Spurs win. United have not looked good in the league this season, and they will have to be at their best if they are to beat the former manager.
Bet: Both teams to score

Aston Villa v Liverpool
The fourth weekend of EPL fixtures come to a close with a clash between two sides with 100 per cent records. Aston Villa has played one game fewer than the champions and they will make life difficult for Liverpool. The defending champions have picked up from where they left off last season and you would expect Jurgen Klopp’s men to collect another win. Villa’s two wins have been against two of the sides at the bottom of the table without a point so this is going to be their toughest test of the season so far. Liverpool’s class up front will be the difference.
Bet: Liverpool win

EPL Betting Tips for September 19/20/21

Last week I started the EPL with seven correct tips from eight. The only bet that let me down was Tottenham’s home game with Everton which I tipped BTTS to land. Everton did their part, but Spurs let me down by failing to score. Hopefully this week I can do better.

Everton v West Brom

I think it’s going to take West Brom another week or two to find their feet back in the Premier League and I wouldn’t back them to win at Goodison Park. Everton surprised me by winning 1-0 at Tottenham last weekend with their new signings settling in to live in the EPL well. I’m going for a home win in this game as West Brom’s woes continue.
Prediction: Everton to win

Leeds v Fulham

Both these newly-promoted side began their campaigns with losses although they were in very contrasting manners. Leeds earned rave reviews for their bravery in losing 4-3 at Liverpool while Fulham were hammered 3-0 at home by Arsenal. I fancy Leeds in this contest, especially if they can replicate the way they pressed Liverpool at every opportunity. Leeds are better equipped than Fulham to avoid relegation this season and they should be too strong for the Cottagers.

Prediction: Leeds to win

Manchester Utd v Crystal Palace

The question that needs answering in this contest is which Palace side will turn up? Will it be the won that somehow 1-0 at Southampton despite being outplayed in all key areas or will it be the side that ended last season with one point from their last eight games? As for United, will they be able to start the season with a win like they did last season when they opened their season with a 4-0 win over Chelsea. I expect United will prove too strong for Palace with a home win most likely.

Prediction: Manchester United to win

Arsenal v West Ham

It may be early in the season, but Arsenal host West Ham as the league leaders after making light work of Fulham a week ago. The Hammers slipped up to Newcastle at home in their opener and will be looking to register their first win of the season at the Emirates. The smart money would be on Arsenal to make it back-to-back wins and continue to set the early season pace.

Prediction: Arsenal to win 

Southampton v Tottenham

Both these sides lost their openers 1-0 last weekend, and neither side will want to be stuck on zero points after two games. Tottenham looked lethargic losing to Everton but the imminent return of Gareth Bale on a loan from Real Madrid should be the boost Spurs need to kickstart their season. Saints shouldn’t be dismissed, and they will make it a difficult game and the bet that could land in this game is under 2.5 goals.

Prediction: Under 2.5 total goals

Newcastle v Brighton

Newcastle welcome Brighton for the Magpies’ first home game of the season and after beating West Ham last weekend, optimism will be high of making it two wins from two. Brighton are looking to bounce back from their opening day loss to Chelsea in a game that produced four goals. Don’t expect that many in this game as this could be a low-scoring game. For that reason, I am going for under 2.5 total goals.

Prediction: Under 2.5 total goals

Chelsea v Liverpool

We haven’t have to wait long for the first blockbuster of the season with Chelsea taking on the champions at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea have invested heavily in their squad with the addition of Timo Werner, Kai Havertz and Ben Chilwell. Chelsea looked better in their opening day win at Brighton while Liverpool looked shaky in defense by newly-promoted Leeds. It’s difficult to see who comes out on top, but their is enough quality on both sides for over 2.5 total goals to land.

Prediction: Over 2.5 total goals

Leicester v Burnley

This is Burnley’s opening game of the season and it’s a tough one as they travel to Leicester who opened their campaign with a 3-0 win last weekend at West Brom. Four of the last five meetings between these two sides have ended 2-1 with both sides winning twice. Chris Wood has scored in three of the last five meetings including both meetings last season. But I’d be inclined to go for under 2.5 total goals in this contest.

Prediction: Under 2.5 total goals

Aston Villa v Sheffield Utd

Both these sides survived the drop in their first season back in the Premier League last season, with United setting the standard with a top 10 finish. Villa left it late to secure their place in the top flight and neither of these sides could be described as prolific goalscoring sides which is why I believe there will be under 2.5 total goals scored at Villa Park on Monday night.

Prediction: Under 2.5 total goals

Wolves v Man City

Manchester City have had to wait until the second round of games to lift the curtain on their season. And they will have to wait a little longer to get under way as their trip to Wolves is the final fixture of the weekend. Wolves managed to win both meetings against City last season which derailed Pep Guardiola’s hopes of winning the title. If Wolves win, it will send a message to the rest of the league that they can mount a title charge. The outcome is up for grabs but this has the potential to be a high-scoring game with over 2.5 total goals.

Prediction: Over 2.5 total goals

EPL betting tips September 12

The Premier League returns this weekend, and I am going to give you my tips for the opening round of matches.

Fulham v Arsenal
Both sides come into this game having enjoyed success at Wembley in their last competitive matches. Arsenal won the FA Cup and Community Shield at the home of football while Fulham won the Championship play-off final there. The smart money will be on Arsenal to win this game especially if Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang picks up his goalscoring form from the end of last season when he scored six goals in his last four games. And he also found the back of the net against Liverpool in the Community Shield so he will certainly be a good bet to score in this game. I can see Arsenal starting fast and take control of this game in the first half. For that reason, I’m going for an Arsenal HT/FT double.

Crystal Palace v Southampton
Recent meetings between these two sides have been low-scoring affairs with under 2.5 total goals paying out in five of the last six. The Saints have won to nil on their three previous visits to Selhurst Park and they will fancy their chances of making it four straight wins especially if Palace start the season the way they finished the last campaign when they picked up just one point from a possible 24. Both teams to score has not happened in eight of the last nine meetings and that is another bet I would be looking at from this contest.

West Ham v Newcastle
West Ham dragged themselves away from the relegation zone after lockdown by playing a more expansive and entertaining style of football. Will David Moyes be brave enough to start the new season in the same manner? Time will tell. Mikhail Antonio was the standout performer when the season resumed after lockdown scoring eight goals and providing an assist in his final seven matches. I would expect Antonio to play a big part in the Hammers’ gameplan against a Newcastle side that may be content to start the season with a point on the road in a potentially low-scoring affair. Under 2.5 goals might be the bet from this game.

Liverpool v Leeds
Welcome back to the Premier League, Leeds. A trip to Anfield first up might be a daunting proposition for Marcelo Bielsa’s newly-promoted side, but it could also be the ideal time to face the defending champions on their own ground before they find  a rhythm. Leeds have waited 16 years to play a Premier League fixture and while they will give it a good go, they might just come undone by Liverpool’s potent attack of Mo Salah, Sadie Mane and Roberto Firmino. I’m going for Liverpool to win this game after leading at half-time.

West Brom v Leicester
Leicester let themselves down at the end of last season when they slipped from what looked to be a safe third-place finish to ending the campaign fifth and missing out on a place in the Champions League. They will have to put that disappointment behind them at West Brom where they will be met by a Baggies side that stumbled their way to promotion rather than ending their fixtures in style. West Brom will look to make it a low-scoring game in order to frustrate their opponents who have won all four of their top flight meetings at the Hawthorns. Jamie Vardy could be the difference between the two sides as Leicester start their campaign with a win.

Tottenham v Everton
Jose Mourinho starts his first full season in charge of Tottenham hoping for a win that will get his players up and running. It won’t be easy against Carlo Ancelotti’s Everton who have strengthened their squad with the addition of midfielder Allan and forward James Rodriguez. Both sides have the ability to score goals which is why I think ‘both teams to score’ will land in North London. Everton have not won this away fixture in their last 12 visits to White Hart Lane, Wembley and the new Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Brighton v Chelsea
Chelsea have no excuses for not challenging for the title this season after spending over £230m in bringing the likes of Timo Werner, Kai Havertz and Ben Chilwell to Stamford Bridge. Last season, Frank Lampard’s side were beaten 4-0 in his first game in charge of the Blues, but this should be a winning start to his second season in charge. With the attacking talent at their disposal, I can see Chelsea scoring over 2.5 goals at the Amex against a Brighton side who have yet to beat Chelsea in the EPL in their three home fixtures.

Sheffield Utd v Wolves
Sheffield United were the surprise package last season settling for ninth in their first season back in the top flight when in all fairness, their finishing position could and should have been higher. Wolves missed out on qualifying for European football which could be a blessing in disguise for Nuno Espirito Santo’s side. It means they won’t be playing regularly on Thursday and then Sunday. Their squad isn’t the biggest in the league but the quality is there despite losing Matt Doherty to Tottenham in the off-season. This could be another low-scoring game with under 2.5 total goals the most likely outcome.

Spreadknowledge tips for EPL’s midweek matches

Watford v Man City
This is a fixture that haunts Watford simply because they have lost the last two meetings with Manchester City by a combined score of 14-0. A 6-0 victory in last season’s FA Cup final was embarrassing enough before City went two better to win 8-0 in the first meeting this season at the Etihad. Watford has just sacked their manager Nigel Pearson despite the Hornets winning two of their last three to sit three points clear of the relegation zone. City were 5-0 within 18 minutes of the reverse fixture and after losing their FA Cup semi-final to Arsenal on Saturday, Pep Guardiola’s side are looking to take their frustrations out on somebody. Watford has been warned. Watford has failed to score the first goal in any of their previous eight EPL games while City has opened the scoring in their last three league matches. Since the lockdown, City has scored 12 first half goals to Watford’s one and it’s going to take an incredible effort for the home side to win this game. In the last seven meetings, over 2.5 total goals has paid out and that looks a solid bet in this game with City winning.
Bet: Man City win and over 2.5 total goals

Aston Villa v Arsenal
This game in hand for Aston Villa is the ideal opportunity for them to move level on points with Watford on 34 points and make Sunday’s final day of the season very interesting indeed. Villa has shown signs of improvement in recent games. They have scored first in their last two matches which helped them beat Crystal Palace 2-0, but they could not hold on against Everton in a 1-1 draw when Everton equalised in the 87th minute which has been a trend for Villa since the league restarted. Seven of the 10 goals Villa has conceded have come in the final 30 minutes of matches. One of Arsenal’s two goals to beat Manchester City came in the final third so Villa will need to be on their guard for a late surge from the Gunners whose best hope of qualifying for European football next season will be to win the FA Cup. Arsenal are unbeaten in their last 17 league and cup away games against Villa and they have won the last seven meetings. Five of those seven were won to nil.
Bet: Both teams to score

Manchester United v West Ham
This is Manchester United’s biggest game of the season by a long way. Victory and they will climb above Leicester with a three points gap. Defeat and United and Leicester meet at the King Power Stadium level on 62 points in their battle to secure fourth spot and the final Champions League berth. United could climb to third if they beat West Ham and Chelsea loses at Liverpool. As for West Ham, the 37 points they currently have could be enough to ensure they are playing in next season’s EPL. If Aston Villa drop any points from their last two games, then the Hammers will be safe. West Ham’s recent revival in which they have taken 10 points from their last five matches, has seen them get to half-time in their last six games either winning or drawing. The last time West Ham won at Old Trafford came in May 2007 and since then, they have not one of any of their last 14 visits to the Theatre of Dreams. United, still smarting from their FA Cup semi-final defeat, has scored in both halves and won both halves in five of their last six league games. West Ham could look to do what Bournemouth and Southampton and take the game to their hosts and open the scoring. United will look to attack at every opportunity and after resting Paul Pogba against Chelsea, he should return to join Bruno Fernandes in United’s midfield.
Bet: Both teams to score

Liverpool v Chelsea
Tonight, after a 28-year wait, Liverpool get their hands on the Premier League trophy. They clinched their 19th domestic titles a couple of weeks ago, but only now will their coronation be confirmed when they are presented the trophy after this fixture with Chelsea. Chelsea may be invited to the party, but they will be keen to play the role of party poopers at Anfield. A win and Frank Lampard’s side will be guaranteed a place in next season’s Champions League. Defeat and it comes down to the final game of the season at home to Wolves on Sunday. While Liverpool are the champions, they haven’t exactly been playing like champions with just one point taken from their last two EPL games. When the two sides meet, a total of 344 days will have passed since the season’s first meeting in the European Super Cup on August 14. Liverpool will hope to maintain a remarkable record of not conceding a goal in the final 10 minutes which they have managed to do in their previous 23 league matches. This could and should be an open game if Liverpool want to mark their trophy presentation with a win. Chelsea has the players to hurt Liverpool which means there could be goals for both sides.
Bet: Both teams to score

Spreadknowledge betting tips for the EPL

Watford v Leicester 
Watford are fighting to stay out of the bottom three while Leicester have their sights on ending the campaign in second spot. The Foxes go into this game with an impressive half-time record this campaign. In their last 10 EPL matches, Leicester have not trailed at the interval – leading four times and being tied in the other six. Watford have not led at the break in their last three league games. Brendan Rodgers’ side have not conceded a first half goal in their last seven league encounters while the home side have gone three league games without finding the net in the first half.
Prediction: Leicester to lead at half-time
Brighton v Arsenal 
Arsenal’s return to action on Wednesday was going to plan for 44 minutes at Manchester City. The game was goalless but two errors from David Luiz either side of half-time took the game away from them. It ended their eight-game unbeaten run and they will hope to bounce back at Brighton who are without a win in their last nine league games. Neither side is used to going into the half-time interval ahead on the scoreboard. Wednesday’s defeat was Arsenal’s sixth game in which they have not been leading at the break (four ties and losing twice) while Brighton have not led in their last six EPL matches (losing three times, level three times). Arsenal cannot afford to lose this game and I expect changes to be made to the starting line-up that should win by two or more goals.
Prediction: Tie at half-time 
West Ham v Wolves
If West Ham manager David Moyes has done his homework during the lockdown, then he will know how slow Wolves have been to start matches this season. Of their last 13 league games, Wolves have scored the first goal just once. The last time they opened the scoring in an away fixture was on December 8 at Brighton. Since then, their last six journeys to opposition grounds have seen them fail to score first. West Ham, who have taken four points from their last two home games, have been first to register on the scoreboard in each of them. Incidentally, three of the last five league games Wolves have played were goalless draws. West Ham haven’t kept a clean sheet in their last 10 matches since beating Bournemouth 4-0 on January 1.
Prediction: West Ham to score the first goal
Bournemouth v Crystal Palace
Don’t be surprised if Crystal Palace win this game 1-0. Palace’s last three EPL games before the break were 1-0 victories against Newcastle, Brighton and Watford – all sides 13th in the standings or lower. This is a match-up between Roy Hodgson’s well-organised Palace side and Eddie Howe’s squad of players who are in the middle of the relegation battle. Another bet that might land is Palace to win the second half. Of their last 15 goals scored, 11 have come after the interval, while the home side have been outscored 6-17 in the second half. Bournemouth have scored nine goals in their last 10 EPL contests and if that scoring does not improve, they could be playing in the second tier of English football next season.
Prediction: Palace to win to nil
Newcastle v Sheffield United 
Sheffield United were denied a comeback win at Aston Villa on Wednesday night when they were denied a legitimate goal just before half-time due to a technical fault with the goalline technology which failed to see Villa keeper Orjan Nyland carry the ball over the line. The two points they missed out on at the end of their 0-0 draw could be the difference between qualifying for next season’s Champions League and settling for a spot in the Europa League. Newcastle has drawn their last two home games 0-0 and another goalless draw should not be a surprise too many people. Steve Bruce’s side has managed to score just once in their last four at St James’ Park while the Blades have not given up the first goal in their last three matches and they have kept their opponents to nil in their last two.
Prediction: Under 2.5 total goals 
Aston Villa v Chelsea 
Dean Smith’s side will hope Lady Luck stays with them for the remainder of the season after getting a fortuitous break against Sheffield United on Wednesday. That was the eighth successive EPL game in which Villa had not led at half-time. Technology helped them break a run of seven games in which they had trailed at the interval. Chelsea went into lockdown buoyed by their 4-0 win over Everton at Stamford Bridge. It was the third consecutive match in which Chelsea scored the first goal. Can Villa finally open the scoring for the first time in eight home games? Aston Villa’s second half performances could decide the outcome of this encounter. The Villans have been outscored 6-19 after half-time which could be a weakness Chelsea will exploit.
Prediction: Chelsea to win the second half 
Everton v Liverpool 
The good news for Everton is that Liverpool cannot win their 18th domestic league title at Goodison Park. The bad news for Everton is that they haven’t beaten their Merseyside neighbours in 21 attempts. However, the Toffees have Carlo Ancelotti in charge of them now who has already inflicted defeat on the league leaders this season when he guided Napoli to victory in the Champions League. The stat that jumps out from this game is the impressive half-time records of both sides. Everton have not trailed at the interval in their last 11 home EPL matches while Jurgen Klopp’s side has not been behind at the break in their last eight league games away from Anfield. Nine of the last 17 meetings have finished in a tie (+320) which would not be the worst result for either of these two sides.
Prediction: Draw at half-time
Manchester City v Burnley 
Matchday 30 concludes with Burnley’s trip to Manchester City on Monday. The Etihad Stadium holds plenty of bad recent memories for the Clarets who have been beaten 5-0 on their last two visits. In fact, City have scored five goals in four of their last nine home games with Burnley in a fixture that generally produces a lot of goals. Since the last goalless draw in October 1975, a total of 46 goals have been scored in the 10 meetings at Maine Road and the Etihad with City scoring 36 of them. While City have dominated this fixture in recent years, Burnley won’t make life easy for their hosts. In their last six EPL games, Burnley has failed to give up the first goal. However, with just three first half goals scored in their last 17 league matches, the visitors cannot afford to fall behind to a City side that has taken maximum points in the seven games in which they have scored the first goal.
Prediction: Manchester City HT/FT double

Spreadknowledge Bundesliga bettings tips

Borussia Dortmund v Bayern Munich

These two giants of German football meet with both sides winning their last six games. Bayern have dropped just two points in their 13 while the home side have taken 27 points from a possible 30 in their last 10 games.

What can we expect from this fixture? Goals, if both strike forces are in the mood. In their last 11 league games, Bayern has bagged 34 goals, while Dortmund have netted 33 times. Both teams should score in this fixture but their respective defences have been pretty good. Dortmund has registered five clean sheets in their last six while the defending champions have nilled their opponents three times in their last four.

Over 2.5 total goals is another bet worth looking at. In Dortmund’s last nine home league games, a minimum of three total goals have been scored while over 2.5 goals has paid out in 12 of Bayern’s last 13 away league games.

A look at previous meetings suggests there should be goals in this match-up. Nine of the last 10 have seen at least three goals scored.

Over 1.5 goals

Bayer Leverkusen v Wolfsburg

Leverkusen host Wolfsburg in a clash between two top-six sides. Leverkusen have an incredible record of not trailing at half-time in their last 19 league games. That feeling of going into the changing room not behind on the scoreboard is not a feeling Wolfsburg are familiar with.

Wolfsburg has led at the break in three of their last 10. In those 10 games, their record at the interval has been – losing, drawing, ahead, losing, drawing, ahead, losing, drawing, ahead and losing in the weekend’s home game against Dortmund. If that sequence is to be continued, then this game should be level at half-time.

Leverkusen have been in good scoring form in their last seven games – scoring in both halves in six of them. That includes their last three in which they also won both the first half and second half.

Of the last 32 meetings, over 2.5 goals has paid out in 29 of them while 28 encounters have seen BTTS land.

Leverkusen to lead at half-time

Eintracht Frankfurt v Freiburg

This could be a slow-burner of a game. Neither side have a tendency to score early goals. Frankfurt have failed to find their opponents’ net before the 37th minute in their last eight games.

Freiburg, who suffered a 1-0 defeat at home to Werder Bremen on Saturday, have not scored a goal before the 28th minute in their last 14 matches. The last time they did so was in their 4-2 defeat at Borussia Munchengladbach on December 1.

Frankfurt has conceded four goals in the five minutes after half-time in their last five matches and this could be an area for Freiburg to exploit.

The fixture computer has not been kind to Frankfurt with their last three games against top five sides which is one of the reasons why over 2.5 goals has paid out in those games.

Freiburg don’t have the strike force of those sides with six goals scored in their last nine so under 3.5 goals might be the best bet in this game.

Under 3.5 goals

Werder Bremen v Borussia Munchengladbach

If Munchengladbach’s last nine matches are any indication as to what we could expect from this game, then we could expect both sides to score and combine for over 2.5 goals.

BTTS has landed in the visitors’ last nine league games while over 2.5 total goals has paid out in eight of those.

Two of Bremen’s last three have seen goals for both teams and over 2.5 goals scored. Of the last 18 goals Bremen has conceded, 13 have come after half-time.

If Bremen score in the 81st minute, it will be the fourth successive game in which Munchengladbach have conceded a goal in that particular minute.

Bremen have not scored first in their last seven home league games so I’d go for Munchengladbach to open the scoring which they have done in their last four games on the road.

Munchengladbach to score first

RB Leipzig v Hertha Berlin

Wednesday’s action gets under way with Hertha Berlin’s trip to RB Leipzig.

Between them, these two sides scored nine goals in the last round of fixtures. Leipzig scored five without reply at Mainz to take the aggregate score for the season to 13-0. Hertha scored all their goals in their 4-0 derby win over Union in the second half to ensure their fans had the bragging rights.

Defensively, these two sides have been difficult to penetrate. Leipzig has registered five clean sheets in their last seven games while Hertha’ derby win ensure back-to-back clean sheets.

Hertha have played the patience game in recent matches. Of the last 20 goals they have scored, 18 have been scored in the second half. They might find it a struggle against Leipzig who have only conceded two second half goals in their last 11 games and they both came in the same game – a 2-0 defeat at Eintracht Frankfurt.

Over 1.5 goals

Augsburg v Paderborn

Augsburg and Paderborn have found wins hard to come by in recent times. Between them, they have combined for one win in a total of 15 games and that came courtesy of Augsburg’s 3-0 win at Schalke on Sunday.

Both sides were quick out of the blocks last weekend registering goals in the first nine minutes. In Paderborn’s case, the basement side had already conceded when they found the net. The last five goals Paderborn have conceded have all come in the first half.

Neither side are used to scoring the first goal. Paderborn has failed to open the scoring in their last seven while Augsburg’s opener at Schalke was the first time they scored first in their last five.

Augsburg to score first

Dusseldorf v Schalke

The last time these two sides met, they drew 3-3 with Schalke coming from a goal down three times to claim a point thanks to Rouwen Hennings’ hat-trick.

And there is a good chance this could end all square also given Dusseldorf’s recent run of results. All four of their points from their last four matches have come from draws.

Six of their last eight games have been draws while four of Schalke’s last eight have been stalemates.

Scoring remains an issue for Davis Wagner’s side with just one goal scored in Schalke’s last six matches. They have failed to score in seven of their last nine and they might have to be patient against Dusseldorf. Of the last 19 goals conceded by the home side, 17 have come in the second half.

Under 3.5 goals. 

Hoffenheim v Cologne

With three minutes to play on Sunday, Cologne’s run of successive games with three or more total goals looked to be coming to an end. They trailed Dusseldorf 2-0 with time running out.

What followed was the most dramatic finish in the Bundesliga since the resumption of the season with two goals to snatch a point in a 2-2 draw. The comeback came a week after they themselves let a 2-0 lead slip at home to Mainz.

Sunday’s draw was Cologne’s tenth game in a row in which over 2.5 goals paid out. Can it pay out for an 11th time in Hoffenheim? I’m going for over 1.5 goals.

Recent history suggests it could. Hoffenheim’s last seven games in the PreZero Arena have seen a minimum of three match goals scored.

In Hoffenheim’s last 10 matches, early goals have been common with 10 goals scored before the stadium clocks reaches 20 minutes. The home side has not conceded a goal after the 74th minute in their last 13.

Cologne have picked the ball out of their net in the 61st minute in their last two matches. Will lightning strike a third time just after the hour mark?

Over 1.5 goals

Union Berlin v Mainz

Both these sides suffered heavy defeats last time out although Union have had longer to dwell on their loss. Their 4-0 loss in the Berlin derby occurred on Friday while Mainz’s 5-0 hammering by RB Leipzig came on Sunday.

Neither side are safe from relegation but a win for Union will ease their concerns considerably and move them six points clear of Mainz who ended the last round of fixtures just three points above Dusseldorf who occupy the play-off place.

The fifth goal Mainz conceded on Sunday came in the final 15 minutes which was the second time in their last three games in which they conceded a goal in that period of time. Union have conceded 11 goals in the 75th minute or later in their last 12 league games. I’m expecting that sequence to continue.

Over 1.5 goals 

Spreadknowledge tips for Bundesliga – May 22-24

Hertha Berlin v Union Berlin

The second round of fixtures, following the Bundesliga restart, gets under way with a Berlin derby. It will be just the second ever in the top flight and the first played at the Olympiastadion. Hertha have the better form with an unbeaten run of three games compared to Union who are without a win in their last three. Over 2.5 total goals has paid out in Hertha’s last six league games and in four of Union’s last five matches. There may not be too many goals before half-time given the fact Hertha have scored two first half goals in their last 12 while Union have managed one more in their last 11. In the last nine games, Hertha have score 10 more goals in the second half than in the first while Union have netted 15 more goals after the interval than before it. Union will go above their hosts if they win.

Suggested bet: Second half to be the higher scoring half

B Munchengladbach v Bayer Leverkusen

Borussia Munchengladbach climbed above RB Leipzig into third in the table last week after 3-1 win at Eintracht Frankfurt and they will start as slight favourites against Bayer Leverkusen who also won on the road last time out when they secured a 4-1 win at Werder Bremen on Monday night. It was the second successive league game in which over 2.5 total goals were scored in a game involving Leverkusen while Munchengladbach’s win was the eighth game in a row in which over 2.5 goals paid out. Both these teams have a tendency to score the first goal, but which side will get their noses in front this time. If it’s Munchengladbach, it will be the seventh time in their last eight games in which they have opened the scoring while Leverkusen are looking to score first for the tenth time in 11 games. Munchengladbach have not trailed at half-time in 13 of their last 14 games while Leverkusen’s run of not trailing at the interval now stands at 18 consecutive games. The away team has won the last three meetings.

Suggested bet: Over 2.5 total goals

Freiburg v Werder Bremen

The form book suggests this should be a comfortable home win for Freiburg who have taken four points from their last two games. The enforced break because of the COVID-19 pandemic did nothing to bring a change in fortunes for Werder who remain in the bottom two following their 4-1 loss at home to Bayer Leverkusen. It was the second successive game in which BTTS had paid out in games involving Werder while Freiburg’s 1-1 draw at RB Leipzig was their second game in a row where there was at least one goal for them and the team they were playing. Bremen conceded the first goal on Monday night for the fourth time in their last five games and it they fall behind at the Schwarzwald Stadion, then they will have to buck a trend that has plagued them all season. Werder have taken just one point from a possible 33 when conceding the opening goal. Freiburg have scored in the 34th minute in their last two games while Werder conceded in the 33rd minute. Will there be a goal between the 31st and 40th minute?

Suggested bet: Freiburg to score first

Paderborn v Hoffenheim

The stat that jumps out ahead of Hoffenheim’s trip to Paderborn is the inability of both sides to score the opening goal. Paderborn, who remain bottom of the Bundesliga following their 0-0 draw at Dusseldorf, have failed to score the opening goal in their last six league games. Hoffenheim, who were soundly beaten 3-0 at home by Hertha Berlin, have conceded the first goal in their last five matches. Half-time team talks have often been rallying calls from the respective managers as both sides have struggled in the opening 45 minutes. Paderborn have not led at half-time in their last nine games while Hoffenheim have been in front just once at the interval in their last 13 fixtures. A bet worth considering is for both teams to score. BTTS has paid out in Paderborn’s last seven league games at home while Hoffenheim’s last two away games have seen goals for both them and their opponents. Hoffenheim are unbeaten in their last five on the road and they should extend that sequence to six at the Benteler Arena.

Suggested bet: Both Paderborn and Hoffenheim to score

Wolfsburg v Dortmund

Wolfsburg’s seven-game unbeaten run will be put to the test when they welcome red-hot Dortmund who won their fifth successive game when they beat Schalke 4-0 in the Revierderby last Saturday. Wolfsburg left it late to win 2-1 at Augsburg when Daniel Ginczek popped up with the winner in injury time. The score at half-time could be a telling factor. If Wolfsburg are in front, the chances are they will go on to win the game. The home side has won all seven games this season in which they have led at the break. Dortmund led 2-0 last week and went on to win to make it six games running they have won while leading at the interval. Dortmund’s clean sheet at home to their neighbours was their fourth in five games and Wolfsburg will have their work cut out to find the net against the side with their sights set on finishing the season as champions.

Suggested bet: Dortmund to lead at half-time

Bayern Munich v E Frankfurt

Bayern say their lead at the top of the table cut to one point when Dortmund eased to victory 24 hours before the gap was restored to four following the champions’ 2-0 win at Union Berlin. A 30th title is Bayern’s to lose with eight games left to play. And if they need any extra motivation to win this game, then there is the small matter of Frankfurt’s 5-1 win in the reverse fixture which was the last as Bayern manager for Niko Kovac who left Frankfurt to take the Munich job. Since losing their last league game, Bayern, who have outscored their opponents 40-6 in those 12 games, have conceded goals in just three of their last 10 league matches. Don’t be surprised if Bayern score in both halves as they have managed to do so in four of their last five including last week’s win in Berlin. Frankfurt have been slow out of the blocks in matches before and after the suspension. They have failed to score before the 37th minute in their last seven games. If Bayern get their noses in front, it could be a frustrating fixture for Frankfurt. Bayern, who have taken 34 of 36 points in their last 12 games, have won all 14 games this season in which they have led at half-time.

Suggested bet: Bayern to lead at half-time

Schalke v Augsburg

A lot is made of the first goal scored in matches. Obviously, it gives the team that scores it the advantage and allows them to dictate the tempo of the game. The first goal in this fixture could go a long way to determine which team ends up with the three points on offer. Schalke have lost the last five games in which they have conceded the opening goal. Augsburg have lost the last five games in which they have conceded the opening goal. Schalke, who have no wins in their last eight, have struggled in front of goal in their last nine games scoring a total of just four goals. Neither side is used to leading at half-time with Schalke turning around ahead once in their last nine while Augsburg have been in front at the interval in one of their last eight. In Augsburg’s last 10 league games, they have conceded 18 goals in the 50th minute or later while Schalke have conceded 13 goals in the 50th minute or later in their last 10. Schalke have won two of their last three games to nil.

Suggested bet: Both teams not to score and under 2.5 goals

Mainz v RB Leipzig

The return fixture on November 2 remains the highest-scoring game of the Bundesliga season so far. A total of eight goals were scored and all eight were scored by Leipzig with Timo Werner helping himself to a hat-trick. Leipzig led 5-0 at half-time and they will be expected to record another comfortable against the 15th place side battling to stay in the league. Leipzig have drawn their last three games and the six points dropped has seen them slip to fourth in the standings. Leipzig had to come from a goal down to rescue a point at home against Freiburg. Leipzig can be described as a second half team after Yussef Poulsen found the back of the net 13 minutes from time. In their last 11 games, Leipzig have been outscored 8-4 in the first half. In the second half of those games, they have outscored their opponents 17-3. If Leipzig are to challenge for the Meisterschale, then the margin for error is zero. They have to start winning and this should be an away win. Leipzig have only scored the opening goal in two of their last 11 games which should give Mainz hope. If the home side can score first, then Leipzig’s title hopes could end at the Opel Arena.

Suggested bet: Timo Werner to be anytime scorer 

Cologne v Dusseldorf

Cologne were denied a winning return to action last Sunday when they squandered a 2-0 lead at home to Mainz. With half an hour left to play, the points looked like being theirs, but they were pegged back by the away side who refused to give up. Sunday’s win was the 12th successive game in which Cologne scored and that run should be extended to 13 against a Dusseldorf that drew 0-0 at home to Paderborn in a game they would have targeted for a much-needed win to help ease them away from the relegation zone. Dusseldorf have conceded the first goal in 12 matches this season and they have not win any of them. Cologne have scored first in six of their last seven home league games and will expect to trouble the scoreboard operators first. Cologne’s win last weekend saw at least one goal in each half which was the fifth time in nine games in which they have done so and that includes their last two at home. Dusseldorf won the first meeting 2-0 but revenge should be Cologne’s.

Suggested bet: Cologne to score in both halves