Tag: football odds

Manchester United v WBA: United Out To Narrow The Gap

Posted on by Online Betting Pro

After an enforced two-week break due to the international calendar, Manchester United return to Premier League action on Saturday afternoon when they welcome West Bromwich Albion to Old Trafford.

United manager José Mourinho will be looking for his team to kick on and keep up the pressure on the top-four as they seek qualification for next season’s Champions League. Currently occupying fifth place in the league four points behind Liverpool but with two games in hand, United could conceivably see the gap increase to seven points if their north-west rivals emerge victorious from the Merseyside derby on Saturday lunchtime.

Mourinho Missing Key Men Aplenty

United will be without talisman and top goalscorer Zlatan Ibrahimović who serves the last of a three-match suspension while Mourinho, who earlier this week voiced his complete opposition to international football friendlies, will also be unable to call on the suspended Ander Herrera while world record signing Paul Pogba and England defenders Phil Jones and Chris Smalling are also all likely to miss out through injury.

West Brom supremo Tony Pulis meanwhile will travel to ‘The Theatre of Dreams’ with an almost full strength squad, winger Matt Phillips and defender Gareth McAuley the only players rated doubtful. Mourinho’s incorrect assertion earlier this week that West Brom had only one player away on international duty in comparison to United’s 14 or 15 may have inspired the Baggies playing staff and support and Pulis will likely use the inadvertent slight on his club as extra motivation on Saturday.

Baggies on Target to Match Best Ever Finish

The Baggies, who were in fact, able to boast six international call-ups, are on course to equal their best-ever finish of eighth achieved four seasons ago. However, with seventh-placed Everton holding a seven-point lead over Pulis’ men with just nine games to go and a gap of seven points separating themselves and ninth-placed Stoke, West Brom will have to put together an impressive sequence of results to improve upon their finish from 2012-13.

Yet the bookmakers, despite United’s sizeable list of absentees and West Brom’s record of two out of three victories at Old Trafford on their last three visits, remain unconvinced of the Baggies chances on Saturday with BetVictor offering them as long as 19/2 to emerge with all three points. There’s little value in backing a United win however with odds varying only between 1/3 and 2/5. More value is to be found in backing them to extend their unbeaten run of 18 league matches courtesy of a draw, currently 17/4 with Unibet.

Premier or Europa League the priority?

A draw could turn out to be very costly for United with the club facing a daunting schedule of seven league matches and a Europa League double-header against Anderlecht in April alone. Currently, the odds of United winning the Europa League are roughly the same as them finishing in the top-four of the Premier League, around the 5/4 with a variety of bookmakers. Yet with United still to travel to top four rivals Tottenham, Arsenal and Manchester City and with champions-elect Chelsea due at Old Trafford in mid-April the safest market looks to be a wager on United to win the Europa League, and that’s exactly where I’d place my money given a choice between the two.

Back to Saturday and our prediction for this game? It has to be a both-teams-to-score home win despite Zlatan’s notable absence with odds of 5/2 available from Bet365 amongst others. Alternatively, for those looking for a bigger return, a 2-0 win for United just as they achieved earlier in the season at the Hawthorns is available at tasty odds of 11/2 with the same bookmaker. A tenner on either looks good value from where I’m standing. Best of luck to you whichever way you turn!

The Reds Need to Push On

Posted on by Online Betting Pro

2017 has been a poor year in Liverpool if you come from the red half of the city that is! A succession of poor results has left Jurgen Klopp and his Red Army in a precarious position in the league. They currently sit in fourth position and are four points ahead of rivals Manchester United. However, Jose Mourinho and his United side have two games in hand. This means that Liverpool cannot afford to slip up as we enter the final phase of the season.

They play Everton at Anfield on Saturday in what will be a hotly contested Merseyside derby. Everton is having a solid season under Ronald Koeman. They currently reside in seventh spot and are only six points adrift of their city rivals. Making the top four was seen as almost automatic before Christmas for Liverpool fans.

However, as mentioned by SuperHotTips.com, “There has been an average of 2.9 goals scored per game over the last 5 matches in the English Premier League where Liverpool have been at home, and Everton have been away.“. This is a great opportunity for a BTTS bet. Check out other BTTS Tips at SuperHotTips.com

Is Klopp the Reason for the Demise?

Many people are suggesting that the tough training program and high-intensity style has taken its toll on the Liverpool players. Is this the fault of Jurgen Klopp? Another answer could be that he simply doesn’t have the quality that he had at Borussia Dortmund. Whatever the reason, it is clear that Liverpool are struggling at the moment and the odd sporadic result isn’t good enough.

Everton will welcome the absence of Liverpool’s Adam Lallana. He picked up a knock in the International break while playing for England. That is a huge blow for Jurgen Klopp. His thigh injury looks likely to rule him out for around 3-4 weeks. At such a crucial stage of the season then that could well tip the balance in whether or not Liverpool ultimately make the top four.

Koeman in Demand

If Everton continues their impressive form, it is difficult to see bigger clubs not coming in for the “in demand” Ronald Koeman. He is clearly adding to his already impressive managerial CV. It is highly likely that a top job is only just around the corner for the Dutchman. That won’t worry the Everton fans though who will clearly fancy their chances of going to Anfield and getting a win.

Liverpool is a tough team to beat at Anfield having won ten of their fourteen league games there this season. Liverpool can be backed at 4-6 with SkyBet and that seems like very poor value to us. Everton, on the other hand, are a best-priced 4-1 with 888Sport.

The draw is 3-1 with BetVictor and we much prefer that as the value bet of the day. We also like the “both teams to score” market too and 888Sport are quoting 5-7 for both teams to find the net. Given how attack-minded Liverpool are and how fragile they are at the back then we like the look of that bet too.

Liverpool vs. Burnley: Could Joey Barton be the Difference?

Posted on by Online Betting Pro

Burnley vs. Liverpool produced an early Premier League upset that few people saw coming back in August, but can Sean Dyche’s men put in a repeat performance on March 12?

Since that fateful afternoon back in August, it’s fair to say the two teams have had contrasting fortunes. While an early setback for Liverpool might have had some fans fearing the worst, 4th place after 27 games have made a place in the next Champions League look like a strong possibility. For Burnley, 14 losses and just nine wins have left them battling for mid-table mediocrity in 12th place after 27 games.

Naturally, if you’re a Burnley fan, 12th place in the Premier League ahead of teams such as Watford, Middlesbrough and defending champions Leicester City isn’t such a bad thing. However, the current state of affairs might not look so positive when you’ve got to travel to Anfield for another crack at Liverpool.

The Facts Favour Liverpool

Indeed, with Jurgen Klopp seemingly over the tactical blunders that plagued the early part of Liverpool’s season, it looks as Burnley would have to produce something special to clinch another 2-0 win. Of course, the power of a previous win can’t be underestimated, especially when you consider Liverpool’s recent run hasn’t exactly been spectacular. Three losses, a draw and two wins in their last six certainly doesn’t smack of a team currently pushing Tottenham for second place in the league.

However, even with all the confidence in the world, Burnley can’t deny the facts. In 115 showdowns, Liverpool has come away with at least a point on 78 occasions, while Burnley has managed just 37 wins. Add to that, the fact The Clarets have only won one in their last six and it’s easy to see why Sun Bets has the home side as 2/9 favourites.

Of course, stats don’t mean anything when the tackles start to fly and Burnley will be hoping a dose of tough Northern resolve will see them through the match. In fact, according to manager Dyche, Joey Barton could be the man to help dish out some of the physicality his side may need to get a result on Sunday.

Joey Barton and the Jekyll and Hyde Effect

Prior to the match, Barton was expected to go before an FA disciplinary hearing. However, with the case postponed, Barton is eligible for selection and could prove decisive one way or another. Looking on the positive side of things, Barton will be one of the most experienced players on the pitch at 34-years-old. In games where a strong presence is needed to help overcome a skill deficit, players like Barton can often come into their own.

The counter argument to this is Barton’s discipline or, more accurately, lack of it against Liverpool. The lifelong Everton fan has never been welcomed to Anfield with open arms and it’s a dynamic that seems to bring out the beast in him. Red cards against Liverpool when he was with Manchester City and Newcastle United suggest he’s not the best at controlling his emotions at Anfield.

When you add to this the potential needle he may receive during the game because of his impending FA hearing, it looks as though Barton’s presence could hinder rather than help Burnley. Now, if you’re a neutral and simply looking for the best bets, then Barton could make things interesting. A quick look through BetVictor’s Premier League bets has Barton to receive the first card of the game at 9/1.

Along the same line, bet365 is offering an Asian betting line on the number of cards awarded in the game. Over 3.5 is currently 1.875 while the under is 1.925. Given what we know about Barton, the over on this bet looks as though it could offer some value if he does play.

If Cards Aren’t an Issue then a Liverpool Win is the Way to Go

But, if Barton doesn’t get the nod, then a safer option would be to focus on the ways Liverpool are going to win. Yes, Burnley has a shot at getting a result and 5/1 on the draw with Sun Bets isn’t a bad price.

However, if you really want the best chance of a return on Sunday, Sadio Mane to score first at 7/2 isn’t a bad shout with Roberto Firmino an injury doubt. Failing that, Liverpool halftime/fulltime (both at Sun Bets) isn’t a bad price.

As Premier League games go, this one looks as though it won’t produce too much unexpected drama, unless Barton is thrown into the mix. If this happens, get your red card bets ready and watch out for fireworks.

Arsenal vs. Bayern Munich Preview: Are the Gunners Mentally Broken?

Posted on by Online Betting Pro

If you’re an Arsenal fan you might want to look away now because this Champions League betting preview is neither going to be flattering or easy to stomach. Let’s start off by getting the elephant out of the room and into the open: Arsenal was poor against Bayern Munich and probably won’t overturn the 5-1 deficit so don’t bet on them progressing to the next round.

Now that’s out of the way, let’s take a look at why Arsene Wenger’s men flopped so spectacularly in Germany. For starters, the loss of Laurent Koscielny didn’t help. The centre-back has played a pivotal role for Arsenal this season and it’s no surprise that Bayern took the opportunity to capitalise on his removal from the game during the first leg. Three goals in ten minutes with Koscielny by the sidelines just goes to highlight his importance to the side.

The Injury Hurt but it’s the Mind that’s Suffering

However, although that injury blow effectively killed off the game and Arsenal’s chances of making the Champion’s League quarter-finals, it was the team’s mental state that was the main concern. With rumours swirling that Wenger will be out at the end of the season and Bayern having done a number on the Gunners in the past, the players appeared to break far too easily. In fact, it’s something Koscielny commented on to the media after the game.

Although Wenger downplayed the “mental problems” comment by suggesting his vice-captain meant the team lacked confidence against Bayern, it appears as though the rot may have set in. Any time a player stands up and suggests there’s a psychological epidemic running through the side, it should raise a red flag to fans. Whether or not the Frenchman’s assessment is correct or not, the mere fact he said it is enough to cause an issue.

With this in mind, it’s hard to see how Arsenal can recover on March 7. Four unanswered goals would do it for them and, if you’re in the mood for a punt, you can currently get odds of 66/1 on that happening with Sun Bets. Now, while that might be a few goals too far, the second leg shouldn’t be seen as all doom and gloom for Arsenal. In fact, the betting odds suggest that the game might actually be quite close.

The Odds are Close but is the Mental Divide too Wide?

Paddy Power has its betting line set at Arsenal to win 2/1 and Bayern to win 13/10. In a similar vein, Coral’s odds makers have it 15/8 for Arsenal and 6/5 for the visitors. From this perspective, the odds aren’t predicting another 5-1 romp for Bayern. Part of that could be due to the fact Koscielny and Aaron Ramsey are likely to be fit for the game. With some extra meat in the middle and a steady head at the back, Arsenal could easily pinch a result.

Sun Bet’s 9/1 on a 2:1 win for Arsenal doesn’t look bad at the price, while Paddy Power’s 12/5 on the draw could offer some decent value. Of course, even with two key players returning, it may not be enough. If Arsenal is suffering from mental problems as Koscielny said, it will be a long night in London. A single goal early could break the team’s spirit and, if that happens, we could be on for another high scoring game.

While we’re unlikely to see Wenger’s men give up five goals at home, 3-1 Bayern looks a strong bet with odds of 14/1 at Coral. There’s no doubt Arsenal will want to salvage at least some sort of consolation from the game, but if those psychological demons strike at any point, then it’s hard to see how they’ll win the match let alone the tie.

Tottenham v Everton Preview: Hedge Your Bets on this One

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“We’ve had good results against really good teams and that gives everyone the confidence to get a good result on Sunday.” That’s what Everton manager Ronald Koeman recently told the club’s official website when asked about their impending clash with second-place Tottenham.

Reviewing the Toffees’ season-to-date, a season that’s seen them beat Manchester City, Arsenal and pick up a point against Manchester United, Koeman is confident his players have the skills to win on March 5. However, as buoyed by these results as Koeman may be, Mark Lawrenson can’t see Everton maintaining their current streak of nine games unbeaten.

Despite acknowledging the quality of the side, Tottenham’s defensive abilities and their desire to bounce back from a disappointing Europa League exit will be enough to tip the balance according to Lawro.

“Generally Spurs are very good defensively and, at the other end, they just ripped the Potters apart last week – Harry Kane’s hat-trick was top drawer. I know Everton are nine games unbeaten in the league, but going to White Hart Lane and continuing that run is a huge ask,” Lawrenson told BBC sport.

The Battle Between the Physical and the Mental

Ahead of the match, it seems as though one of two factors could decide this game. On the one hand, those in favour of Tottenham can look towards the team’s superior physical skills. With Harry Kane currently banging in goals for fun and leading the Premier League’s top scorer race, there’s no doubt Everton will be under pressure from the off. In fact, when you factor in the loss of defensive midfielder Muhamed Besic due to an injury, Everton may be forced into their shell in a bid to stop Kane from running riot.

On the other hand, Everton supporters could feasibly claim that their players will have the psychological edge heading into the match. As Koeman has pointed out, big results from big games this season bodes well for the upcoming fixture. Add to that the fact Everton picked up a point against Spurs the last time they met on top of a nine-run win streak and supporters have every right to be confident. There’s no doubt the absence of Besic and Yannick Bolasie will hurt, but maybe the team’s mindset can overcome this hurdle.

Indeed, with Tottenham’s Toby Alderweireld, Jan Vertonghen, Danny Rose and Erik Lamela all looking unlikely, the time may be right for Everton to do a bit better than a point. If the boys in blue can ride this wave of confidence, 9/2 on a win with Sun Bets looks to be a strong price. On the flip side, those with the confidence that physical skills will overcome mental agility can find odds of 4/6 on Tottenham at Coral.

Double Your Bets for a Chance to Win Twice

For those looking to sniff out a bargain, Paddy Power’s weekend “2 Up” offer may be worth taking. If Spurs can bag a couple of quick goals, you’ll be paid out instantly at 8/13 regardless of the end result. Given that we could easily see Everton fight back and earn a point as they did last time out, this could be a great way to hedge your bets. By combining Paddy Power’s offer with Coral’s 3/1 on the draw you to pick up two wins on what looks to be a highly likely outcome.

With both teams playing well and positives on both sides, Tottenham v Everton looks set to be an entertaining but close game. Current league standings would suggest the home side will just edge it. However, if you’re willing to double your bets and use some online offers, the draw could be the wisest move you’ll make this weekend.

Can United Surge into the Top Four?

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Manchester United certainly seem to be picking up momentum. Their recent unbeaten run seems to prove that. While they could have played better in the EFL Cup final on Sunday, a trophy will certainly have boosted confidence at Old Trafford. Roy Keane has recently commented on how he feels United haven’t made progress from last season. This is clearly wrong and is probably biased based on his bitter departure from the club.

United look well placed to reach the top four. Liverpool is looking like a team low in confidence. Their 3-1 loss at Leicester opens the door for United to move above them. United are only 2pts behind Arsenal. Apart from Chelsea, it is clear that United are playing the best football in the league at the moment.

Bournemouth are in Trouble

United host Bournemouth on Saturday in what looks like an easy three points for the Reds. Eddie Howe has got a big job on his hands to try to arrest the slide that his team have suffered in recent weeks. Bournemouth is now only 4pts above the drop zone. Recent good results for the bottom clubs have closed the gap on them even more.

Bournemouth was very poor in their 6-3 thrashing at Everton. They are still awaiting their first win of 2017. The rot seemed to set in when they capitulated from a 3-0 lead at home to Arsenal to draw 3-3. That result came on the 3rd of January and they haven’t played well since.

These are clearly troubled times and Bournemouth badly needs to start winning soon. That is unlikely to happen as Jose Mourinho now has further trophies in his sight as well as getting into the top four. Ibrahimovic and Pogba are really starting to play well and United look like a really fluent team. It is going to take either a very good side or a very lucky side to beat United at the moment.

Finding the Best Value Bets

The basic fact is that United are highly likely to win this match. Bournemouth is woeful at the moment. The odds of 1-4 for a United victory from SkyBet don’t really fire the imagination. Neither does picking up a string of losing bets backing the draw or Bournemouth to cause an upset.

The value seems to be in finding alternate bets. BetFred is a best-priced 4-5 for United to be ahead at half time and full time. This is by far the best value of all the bets that are on offer. Jose Mourinho will expect and demand a reaction from their EFL Cup final win where United was mediocre for large periods of the game. That is likely to happen against Eddie Howes’ boys and expect United to start quickly and on the front foot.