Champions League Group Stage Match Day 6

With the first five group stage games out of the way the Champions League Group stage has now reached the final, crucial stage for many teams & although somes teams already know their fate & they know they cannot progress, there are still a lot of teams with a lot to play for & that should translate into a series of seriously competitve, hopefully entertaining matches for us to enjoy.

I have had a good look at the fixtures & here are my brief thoughts on the games & my recommendations on them for your consideration:

Tuesday Night Champions League Fixtures:

 
Chelsea vs Valencia:- No doubting how huge a match this is to both Chelsea & Valencia as they both can still win the Group but might even fail to qualify so there’s huge pressure on this match & everything to play for.

That should see both teams going for the win but it could be tight & the first goal will be massive, whichever side scores first then the other side will come instantly under massive pressure & so the two teams face a tactical dilemma here, do they go for the win or do they keep it tight & solid.

I’m expecting Chelsea to be really positive because they are at home & do have extra overall quality compared to Valencia and to be honest Chelsea’s defence is not good enough for them to believe they can concentrate on defending & keeping it tight.

For Valencia then they know they that a 1-1 draw will be good enough as they have a superior goal difference to Chelsea so it’s a slightly differently test for them but then again if they go out to defend they may well get punished so it’s a tough call to know what to do here.

This should be a good, competitive match & the pressure of the occasion could lead to a few mistakes which Chelsea really don’t need right now so they will have to be careful but their win against Chelsea should have given them a huge confidence boost & I’m taking Chelsea to edge through & get the win they need here.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: CHELSEA to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Drogba/Mata/Lampard
 
Genk vs Bayer Leverkusen:- Apart from playing for their pride at home Genk have absolutely nothing else to play for as they will finish bottom of the group whatever happens here & so this match should be all about what Bayer Leverkusen do & how they play.

Bayer Leverkusen currently top the group & they know that a draw would be good enough to secure qualification but having beaten Chelsea at home last time out I’m expecting them to believe they can go to Genk & win to secure winning the Group.

Genk have conceded 15 goals & only scored 1 so far in the group stage & although they held Chelsea 1-1 at home, it’s very difficult to have any faith in them getting anything here based on their pathetic display in losing 7-0 to Valencia & I’m taking Michael Ballack to inspire Bayern Leverkusen to another win here.~
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: BAYER LEVERKUSEN to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Ballack/Deirdyok/Freidrich
 
Borussia Dortmund vs Marseille:- Another match here were it only means something to one side & it is Marseille who find themselves in a position where they know they have to win to qualify through with Arsenal.

Arsenal have won the group already & are certain to play a weakened side against Olympiakos away making it a strong possibility that Olympiakos will get the win they have to secure & that means Marseille have to win this, it’s just a case of whether they can actually do it on the night under the pressure.

Marseille have not been massively impressive in the Champions League this year but they have at least shown more quality & consistency that Dortmund who have disappointed greatly so this might well be an easier match for Marseille than it would have been if Dortmund could still do anything in the group.

Dortmund do get tremendous support at home & there should be a good atmosphere as the fans will demand they finish the group stage on a high at home so that will make things tougher for Marseille but as long as they defend properly they do have the players to cause Dortmund damage & Marseille look worth a punt to get the win the need although it won’t be easy.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: Marseille to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Ayew/Valbuene/Gonzalez
 
Olympiakos vs Arsenal:- Olympiakos have home advantage, they need the win & they will be playing a much weakened Arsenal side so they will not have a better chance to beat Arsenal & I think they will.

Of course football is never that easy & Olympiakos still have to prove they can handle the pressure & actually beat Arsenal here but they’ve been solid enough so far & they showed by gaining a massive wins against Dortmund & Marseille that they can definitely do it.

I think the absolute key is the fact Arsenal are highly likely to play a weakened, less experienced side with them already having won the Group & I’m backing Olympiakos to be inspired by their fantastic, noisy home fans & get the huge win they need on the night but whether that will be good enough will depend on what Marseille do.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: Olympiakos to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Fetfazidis/Holbas/Modesto
 
Apoel Nicosia vs Shaktar Donetsk:- This should be all about Apoel Nicosia here & I’m taking them to finish what has been an amazing group stage for them so far by getting another win & winning Group G to pull off the shock of the Champions League so far.

Apoel Nicosia were largely expected to finish bottom of Group G so the fact they come into this match top & unbeaten after 5 games with 2 wins & 3 draws just shows the incredible progress they’ve made & no doubting they totally deserve this fantastic opportunity.

There is no escaping from how poor Shaktar Donetsk have been in the Champions League this season & while they have the individual quality to be dangerous on the night, they have no motivation to win this game & have not shown the form required to do that so this should be a home win for Apoel & they certainly look worth backing to do that.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: Apoel Nicosia to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Almeida/Mandua/Trickovski
 
FC Porto vs Zenit St. Petersburg:- This is an absolutely massive game for both FC Porto & Zenit St Petersburg as only one of them can now qualify through with Apoel so I’m expecting a really good game here.

FC Porto have been disappointing so far in the Group stage but they know they have to win this & they should come into the game with huge belief & confidence with this being at home & having won so well in Shaktar last time out.

Zenit St Petersburg have been quite impressive in a few of their Champions League games so far but their failure to beat Apoel at home last time out is the reason they face this high pressure final match & that might just prove too much of a test for them.

There is no doubting Zenit have the quality to cause Porto problems & given how mixed Porto have been it wouldn’t be the hugest shock for Zenit to get the draw they need but this is set up for Hulk to show his top quality for Porto & they look worth a bet to get the job done.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: FC PORTO to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Hulk/Rodriguez
 
Barcelona vs BATE Borisov:- Quite simply this is purely about how serious Barcelona take it & how many goals they want to score, whichever Barcelona team starts they will win the match & win it comfortably.

Barcelona have secured winning the group after their fantastic 3-2 win at AC Milan so this game means absolutely nothing to them, indeed it actually means far more to BATE who can still qualify for the Europa spot by finishing 3rd in the group but BATE will not win this match, no way.

So the only question punters have here is how many will Barcelona score, I think 3 is a good starting point but if they really take it seriously they could well get 4, 5, 6 or more, but in the likelyhood that they will rest most of their big stars then I’ll go with the lower end of that scale this time around.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: BARCELONA to win 3-0/4-0
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Pedro/Sanchez/Fabregas
 
Viktoria Plzen vs AC Milan:- This is a totally meaningless game & there is absolutely nothing apart from professional pride to play for here for either Plzen or AC Milan so hopefully that should make this an open, entertaining game with goals.

AC Milan have already secured 2nd spot & Plzen have realistically already qualified for the Europa League, unless BATE pull off the biggest shock of all time & win Barcelona, that won’t happen though so Plzen can just relax here & play their game & not worry about the result at the end.

The one danger for punters here is that this could be a game where neither side tries that hard & that does make any result possible but AC Milan have a clear edge in terms of player quality & I think they are worth backing to finish the group in style & worth supporting to get an away win here.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: AC MILAN to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Robinho/Ibrahimovic/Boateng
 
Manchester City vs Bayern Munich:- This is a truly massive, high pressure match for Manchester City but they come into it facing the horrible of situation of knowing that even a fantastic home win against Bayern Munich may not be enough depending on what Napoli do at Villareal.

The simple maths to this Group are that Bayern Munich have already secured qualification by winning the group & that leaves Man City & Napoli fighting over 2nd place, Napoli currently hold that & a win against Villareal will secure it for them no matter what Man City do.

So the only outcome that offers Man City any hope here is a win & that’s the only approach they can have but saying it is easy & actually doing it has already been proven to be far tougher for Man City in the Champions League so far & the pressure is on them again here.

Manchester City have the proven quality to win this match so the questions that remain to be answered are do they have the mental strength to handle the pressure & get the win & also how seriously will Bayern Munich take this game with the group already won.

On the first point then I do believe Man City have players with the mental strength required to handle the pressure & produce what is needed on the night but as they showed by drawing at home with Napoli that no matter how well they do, the Champions League is always tough & they will have to be at the top of their game to win this.

On the second point then I do expect Bayern Munich to come to Manchester City & take the game very seriously because it’s a clear chance to knock out a very dangerous team & Bayern Munich certainly have the quality to come to this game & get the result, they deservedly & comfortably beat Man City first time around & will have no fear about playing them again.

I’m expecting Manchester City to be confident & fully up for this & I’m also expecting Bayern Munich to give it a really good go it’s certainly a dangerous game to call because I could see Bayern getting a result here but I think Manchester City will just have enough to get their job done & win on the night & then hope Napoli fail in Villareal as that is all they can do.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: Manchester City to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Aguero/Silva/Balotelli
 
Villareal vs Napoli:- Villareal have been pathetic so far in the Champions League, they have no interest whatsoever in this game & have no motivation to win while Napoli know they might have to win to qualify so surely this match will revolve entirely around what Napoli do.

Villareal have 5 defeats from 5 & have conceded 12 goals with only 2 scored so it just doesn’t seem possible to believe they will finish the Group stage with anything other than another defeat & Napoli will surely have too much quality for them again here.

Napoli have been very impressive in the Champions League with the likes of Cavani, Lavezzi, Hamsik all producing great quality & great goals and they will certainly believe & expect to get goals again against what has been a very poor Villareal defence & they have to be backed to win this which of course would be desperate for Man City.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: NAPOLI to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Cavani/Hamsik/Lavezzi

Wednesday Night Champions League Fixtures:

 
Inter Milan vs CSKA Moscow:- Inter Milan have already won Group A & only have professional pride to play for while CSKA Moscow have to win to keep their dreams of qualification alive all of which makes this a complex game to work out.

Inter Milan have not been overly impressive so far in the Champions League & they have struggled domestically but they’ve done what is required in the Champions League & will certainly want to finish on a high in front of their own fans.

For CSKA Moscow they know they have to win & then hope that Trabzonspor don’t beat Lille so it’s a very tall order but the fact it is possible should at least the CSKA Moscow players to have a real go in this game.

The game should be open & there could be a few goals making any result truly possible but while Inter Milan don’t have to win, I would expect them to attempt to finish with a win & I still think they are worth backing to make their extra quality & take the win here.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: INTER MILAN to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Pazzini/Milito/Sneijder
 
Lille vs Trabzonspor:- This should be a really competitive game because Lille have to go for the win while Trabzonspor know they will have to play well to get at least the 1 point they need so it may well come down to which side handles the pressure the best.

Lille kept their hopes alive by getting an excellent away win last time out & that win will have given them a huge boost but they will know that a Trabzonspor side that have only been beaten once so far will be tough to beat & Lille will have to show concentration & quality to get the job done.

For Trabzonspor they know that a draw will be enough to seal qualification & they’ve proven by winning in Inter Milan as well as drawing 3 other group matches that they can handle pressure & do a job if required but this will be a tough test & they will have to be at their organised best to get the result they need.

No doubting this is a fascinating match to call with both Lille & Trabzonspor having their own motivations to get the result they need, it’s probably going to be seriously competitie & pretty close on the night but I’m taking Lille to show their extra flair & get the vital win they need to go through.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: LILLE to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Sow/Pedretti/De Melo
 
Basle vs Manchester United:- Another huge game in prospect here with both Basel & Manchester United desperate to join Benfica in qualifying through the group & it all looks set to be a high intensity, high pressure match on the night.

Basle & Manchester United can theoretically still both win the group by winning here & if Benfica fail at home to Otelul but that is highly unlikely to happen & so Basel & Manchester United are left knowing that only one of them will go through to the next round.

Basel have to win while Manchester United have to avoid defeat so it’s a definitely a game that hangs in the balance & as the 3-3 draw that these two teams shared earlier in the group, anything is possible here & it’s hard to rule out any of the potential results here.

However, I do find it hard to believe that Manchester United will fail to qualify as I think they have more than enough attacking quality to punish the defensive mistakes that Basle have made in every game so far & so the question comes down to will Manchester United win this or take the point they need.

Of course Manchester United never set up to go for a draw, it’s simply not in their nature so I’m expecting a controlled, organised performance from United but one with winning the game in mind & on balance I think they are worth supporting to edge the match & qualify through and that will do.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: MANCHESTER UNITED to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Rooney/Nani/Young
 
Benfica vs Otelul Galati:- Quite simply Benfica will win this match & win the group, the only question for punters is how many will Benfica score to get that win.

Benfica have been very impressive so far to sit top after 5 games & victory here will give them overall victory in the group which is an achievement they can be very proud of & indeed totally deserve.

Otelul Galati have been found to be completely out of their league in the Champions League with 5 straight defeats & 10 goals conceded proof of that although they have showed endeavour & commitment in those defeats.

Unless Benfica really do take this game too easy then I can’t see any other result than a comfortable home win here & I’m taking Benfica to finish the group in style with a few goals & let their fans celebrate winning the group.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: BENFICA to win 3-0/3-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Cardozo/Nolito/Caesar

 
Ajax vs Real Madrid:- Both of these famous european giants have already qualified through with Ajax coming 2nd to a high quality & rampant Real Madrid side so hopefully both teams will just relax here & look to play great, positive football to entertain us all.

Admittedly any result has to be considered here because there is a big chance that both sides will ease off on how seriously they take this game & particularly with Real Madrid who have a truly massive match against Barcelona coming up after this.

Of course Jose Mourinho will want whoever he picks for Real to be entirely professional & try to maintain their 100% record of winning every group stage game so Real Madrid command great respect & Ajax will still have to be at their very best to stop Madrid winning this.

I’m expecting Ajax to have a real go in front of their own fans & I think they have enough attacking quality to cause problems for what will most probably be a weakened Madrid side but I still think Real Madrid will be too strong & I’m taking Mourinho’s men to make it 6 wins from 6 here.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: REAL MADRID to win 2-1/3-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Higuain/Callejon/Ozil
 
Dinamo Zagreb vs Lyon:- Dinamo Zagreb & Lyon clash here in one of the few Champions League games that means absolutely nothing to either side involved & based on that alone it makes it a tough game to call with confidence.

In terms of performance so far in the Champions League group stage then Lyon can at least claim to have won one & drawn two of their games compared to Dinamo’s pathetic record of 5 straight defeats so if there to be a winner here then it should be Lyon but I wouldn’t want to be putting too much faith in Lyon right now.

In all honesty this is a match that neither side probably wants, nobody else involved in the competition will be interested in it either so it’s hard to expect either Dinamo or Lyon to take it seriously & I think it might be worth backing this to be a scoring draw & that’s a bet that offers the most value in my opinion.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: DRAW 1-1/2-2
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Gomis/Bastos/Tomecak

Well those are my own independent views for the midweek action in the Champions League & hopefully you find them interesting & informative in some way.

The idea behind the betting recommendations is to cover the main football betting markets hopefully they help guide you towards successful punts on what should prove to be another truly fascinating & dramatic set of Champions League matches.

Remember to check the latest team news before you bet & also to shop around for the best odds & best terms available and good luck with whatever bets you have.

 Champions League Group Stage Match Day 5 Previews

With the first four group stage games out of the way the Champions League Group stage has now reached a pivotal point for so many teams & there is no doubting that this round of matches could well decide the fate of so many teams, many will secure qualification while many know that they another bad result will see them fail.

I have had a good look at the fixtures & here are my brief thoughts on the games & my recommendations on them for your consideration:

 
 
Tuesday Champions League Matches:

Bayern Munich vs Villareal:- Bayern Munich have been one of the most impressive sides so far in the Champions League with 3 wins & a draw and I’m expecting them to get another comfortable against a Villareal side who have been very disappointing.
 
Bayern Munich have 10 points already & another win here should secure them the group and I don’t see how a Villareal side who so far suffered 4 straight defeats in this competition with 9 goals conceded can stop Bayern Munich getting the win, the only choice for punters here should be what score will Bayern Munich win & given they’ve scored 3 goals in each of their previous 2 home games then I think 3 seems a sensible starting figure again.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: BAYERN MUNICH to win
Correct Score options: Bayern Munich to win 3-0/4-0
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Gomez/Ribery/Muller

Napoli vs Manchester City:- This is a truly massive game that should generate increased amounts of pressure & intensity on and off the pitch with both Napoli & Manchester City knowing that only one of them will qualify through with Bayern Munich so it’s definitely a must win game for both.
 
The fact this is a must win game should make this a seriously competitive contest and give how that was the case when these two sides shared a 1-1 draw earlier in the competition then this is most definitely a game that can go either way with Napoli very strong at home & Manchester City very strong anywhere right now.
 
This is a seriously tough game to call & I must admit that a tight draw is a very tempting value option but Manchester City are just so strong & have the edge in terms of player quality with their ability to have incredible quality on the bench ready to come on something that I think could be the key factor & I’m taking Manchester City to earn another huge win.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: MANCHESTER CITY to win
Correct Score options: Manchester City to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Aguero/Silva/Nasri

CSKA Moscow vs Lille:- The pressure is definitely on the players here as this is a must win game for both CSKA Moscow & Lille so it’s set up to be a fascinating battle but one that I think CSKA Moscow will win.
 
CSKA Moscow have not been entirely convincing so far in the Champions League but they are in 2nd place in the group with only 2 games to go & victory here will go a very long way to securing their qualification so that should be all the motivation they need to be positive & go for the win.
 
In Lille’s case they have failed to live up to expectations in this tournament so far with only 2 points after 4 games & they desperately need to win just to stay in the competition but it seems difficult to believe they will go into this game confident & actually have enough to get that win.
 
The first time these two met Lille threw away a 2 goal advantage as they ended up sharing a 2-2 draw so CSKA Moscow will be aware of what Lille can do but CSKA Moscow are usually very strong at home & I’m expecting them to bee too strong & make home advantage pay by taking the points here.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: CSKA Moscow to win
Correct Score options: CSKA Moscow to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Love/Cauna

Trabzonspor vs Inter Milan:- Trabszonspor produced one of the biggest shocks in recent Champions League history by beating Inter Milan at the San Siro so they have to be respected on home turf but this time around I think it will pay to follow Claudio Ranieri’s side to get revenge & secure victory in Group B.
 
Inter Milan have struggled & not been at all impressive in Serie A so far this season but it’s been a different story in the Champions League with 3 straight wins & playing with a confidence in the tournament that suggests they will be tough opponent for whoever they play in the knockout phases & they will secure winning Group B if they can take the points here so their motivation to win is clear.
 
Trabszonspor have their own motivation for victory as they are definitely in with a fair chance of qualifying through the group along with Inter Milan so they will certainly look to be solid & hard to beat but they’ve only scored 2 goals so far in the Champions League & based on that it’s difficult to see them winning this so a low scoring draw looks the best they can hope for.
 
The atmosphere in Trabszonspor will be intense & indeed the Trabszonspor players will certainly look to make things tough for Inter Milan & the fact Inter Milan don’t have to win makes the draw tempting but Inter Milan have far more quality than Trabszonspor & I’m taking that extra quality to secure a group winning victory here for Inter Milan.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: INTER MILAN to win
Correct Score options: INTER MILAN to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Milito/Sneijder/Pazzini

Otelul Galati vs Basel:- Otelul Galati have show real spirit & endeavour so far in their debut season in the Champions League but 4 straight defeats & only 1 goal show they are not really up to this level & this should be a great opportunity for Basel to get back in the hunt with a much need win here.
 
Otelul Galati have played better than their record of 4 defeats suggests with two fairly good displays against Manchester United which will give them belief but ultimately the table doesn’t lie & the fact they don’t score goals to reward their play is what has cost them & surely a Basel side that has already scored 6 goals including 3 against Manchester United will find at another couple here to win the game.
 
Basel are not the safest side defensively so Galati may well get a few chances to get a goal but it’s hard to see them scoring more than once while Basel will feel they can get amongst the goals & a with Frei leading the way a couple here can give Basel the points & they look worth backing to get a vital away win.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: BASEL to win
Correct Score options: BASEL to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Frei/Huggel/

Manchester United vs Benfica:- This match will get the emotions & memories flowing for the older generation as Manchester United & Benfica clash again 43 years on from the memorable night in 1968 when Manchester United defeat Benfica to win the European Cup.

The fact this match is between two of the big, established teams in european football should make it another occasion to remember & the fact this game will almost certainly decide who wins the group should make this a seriously competitive match for us to enjoy.

The simple facts are that a win for either Manchester United or Benfica here will almost certainly guarantee the winners victory in the group & that should be enough motivation to make sure that both Manchester United & Benfica go for the win here.

The first time these two sides met was a very good, seriously competitive entertaining 1-1 draw & given the quality within both sides then it’s not totally impossible that might happen again but this game will be played at Old Trafford and that usually means victory for Manchester United & any other result deemed a shock.

Admittedly Benfica getting a draw in this game wouldn’t be the biggest shock you will see but then again Manchester United at Old Trafford is one of the toughest tests in world football & without doubt Benfica will have to be at their very best to get anything here.

Avoiding defeat would be a huge result & bonus for Benfica and there is no doubt they will put up a good fight but Sir Alex Ferguson knows the importance of this match & I’m expecting the likes of Rooney, Hernandez, Nani & the rest of Manchester United’s top class players to be too strong for Benfica here & United to win looks the call here.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: MANCHESTER UNITED to win
Correct Score options: Man United to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Hernandez/Rooney/Nani
 
Lyon vs Ajax:- This is a huge game in group D as this is definitely a decider to see who will go through with Real Madrid into the next round so this should be a cracking game that could well go either way on the night.

This match does represent Lyon’s final chance to progress really, if they don’t beat Ajax here then they will remain 3 points behind & on a much worse goal difference so Lyon have to be positive fromt he start & they have got to win, anything else will be failure on their part.

The problem with trying to have faith in Lyon to win this game is the fact they’ve only scored 2 goals so far in the Champions League & they’ve just not looked as good this year as in previous years.

Ajax’s resurgence in form in this competition has given themselves a huge chance in recent times with excellent wins & goals that have pushed them into a clear 2nd in Group D & clearly they’ve got a huge motivation to make sure that remains to be case so I’m expecting a big performance from them here.

Lyon have home advantage & they have to win so they will be totally up for this but I can’t tip a them to win when they’ve been so poor so far & if there is to be a winner then it’s likely to be Ajax but I can see this being competitive with a few goals going in & on balance an entertaining scoring draw looks the value call here.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: DRAW
Correct Score options: 1-1/2-2
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Gomis/Sulejmani/Eriksen
 
Real Madrid vs Dinamo Zagreb:- Quite simply Real Madrid will win & the only question punters have to answer is what will the winning margin be for Real Madrid.

Real Madrid have 4 wins from 4 games with 10 goals scored & none conceded while Dinamo Zagreb have 4 defeats from 4 with no goals scored & 9 conceded and that leaves Real Madrid already qualified & Zagreb already doomed to finish last.

There is absolutely nothing but pride to play for in this game & it is entirely about how seriously Jose Mourinho will take it, now he could rest the entire first team squad & play all his reserves and still win the game.

So in the belief that I expect Jose Mourinho to take this game seriously & aim to win it in style then I would expect Real Madrid to win with a few goals & upwards of 3 looks the way to go here and if they take it really seriously then it could well be a lot more.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: REAL MADRID to win
Correct Score options: REAL MADRID to win 3-0/4-0
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Higuain/Di Maria/Ronaldo

Wednesday Champions League Matches:

Bayer Leverkusen vs Chelsea:- This is a huge game for both Bayer Leverkusen & Chelsea as both will want to win but also no that defeat could be disastrous so this could well be a close, competitive battle on the night.

Bayer Leverkusen will know that while beating Chelsea will be very tough, a home win here will give them a massive chance of qualifying & even winning the group so this is the key game for them & I’m expecting them to be totally up for this & ready to fight Chelsea all the way.

For Chelsea then they are in this situation of still needing points to qualify because they have thrown away leads in the previous two away games & while another draw would keep firmly Chelsea in the hunt for qualification, they ideally need to win this & that should also make them positive & attack minded.

This will be tough & it will be competitive as Bayer Leverkusen are always pretty strong at home while Chelsea are strong anywhere so I must admit a scoring draw was seriously tempting but Chelsea did beat them with comfort the first time around & I think they are value to get the win & seal Group E in the process.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: CHELSEA to win
Correct Score options: Chelsea to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Drogba/Torres/Lampard
 
 
Valencia vs Genk:- Valencia are strong at home & always hard to beat while Genk are pretty poor away from at this level so this should a decent game of football but one that ends with victory for Valencia.

Valencia have great experience of Champions League football now & they’ve always been very, very tough to play on their home ground & they will believe that 3 huge points are there for the taking as long as they play to their strengths.

Genk did very well at home to get a draw against Chelsea but they’ve been very poor in their 2 away games so far & I can’t really seem them getting too much from this match, if they do it will be down to Valencia failing as much as anything they offer.

This game completely evolves around what Valencia do & as long as they play to their strengths they should be too strong for Genk here & a comfortable Valencia win looks the value call here in my mind.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: VALENCIA to win
Correct Score options: Valencia to win 2-0/3-0
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Soldado/Jonas/Hernandez
 
 
Arsenal vs Borussia Dortmund:- Another huge game in prospect here as Group F leaders Arsenal welcome 3rd place Dortmund who have to win so this should be a cracker & provide us with a few goals to enjoy.

A win for Arsenal here will just about secure them winning the group while Borussia Dortmund come here having to win to stay in the competition so I’m expecting both sides to really positive & create an open game and if that is the case then it’s Arsenal that I’m expecting to win it.

Arsenal & Dortmund fought out an entertaining 1-1 draw when they met earlier in the group & indeed Dortmund do command respect here as they have the quality to hurt Arsenal but right now Arsenal are so confident & in such good form that I cannot oppose them here with an Arsenal win inspired by Robin Van Persie the bet in this one.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: ARSENAL to win
Correct Score options: Arsenal to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Van Persie/Gervinho/Walcott
 
 
Marseille vs Olympiakos:- Both Marseille & Olympiakos still have plenty to play for in this competition & both need the win so another competitive fixture looks certain but it should be one that results in a home win if form means anything.

Marseille currently sit 2nd in Group F & victory here will secure qualification through to the knockout stages so that’s all the motivation they need & indeed Didier Deschamp’s side certainly have the quality to get the job done at home where they are usually very strong.

Marseille did lose 1-0 in their last home champions league match but that shouldn’t be a factor here & I just don’t see how a Olympiakos side that have lost 3 of their 4 group games can be fancied to get anything from this game, they will set out to be hard to beat but Marseille should have too much for them & a home win looks a very solid bet in this one.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: MARSEILLE to win
Correct Score options: Marseille to win 2-0/3-0
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Ayew/Remy/Gonzalez
 
 
Zenit St. Petersburg vs Apoel Nicosia:- I will hold my hands up now & say that I did not expect Zenit & Apoel to be the top 2 in the Group but they are definitely there on merit & quite simply this a game neither side can lose so it’s likely to be some battle.

Avoiding defeat here will keep Apoel top & Zenit in 2nd it wouldn’t be the biggest surprised to so them both set out to be organised, hard to beat & play for a draw but to honest that doesn’t ever look to be Zenit’s philosophy & I’m expecting them to come out firing here as victory will secure victory in the group.

Apoel Nicosia have been the surprise package of the Champions League so far in my opinion & they command huge respect as they come into this game unbeaten with 2 wins & 2 draws and there is no doubt that they will set themselves up to be hard to beat again but without doubt this looks like being their toughest test to date so any positive result here will be a huge bonus.

As I explained a draw would suit both sides so it could end up turning like that & a draw is tempting but I’ve been pretty impressed with Zenit in most of their games & I think they can make their extra quality & home advantage pay with a massive win here.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: ZENIT ST PETERSBURG to win
Correct Score options: Zenit to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Danny/Shirikov/Lombaerts
 
 
Skakhtar Donetsk vs FC Porto:- I can’t believe that these Shaktar Donetsk & FC Porto find themselves at the bottom of the table & on the brink of being knocked out but that is the reality & given the poor form they’ve both shown in makes this match a really tough one to call with confidence.

I had huge faith in both Shaktar Donetsk & Porto at the start of the season & I believed they would be the two teams qualifying through from G it’s only realistically Porto than can do that now & to achieve that they’ve got to win both their remaining games so the pressure is on them to do that.

Shaktar Donetsk have been very disappointing, failing to win a Champions League game so far & only having 2 draws to show for their efforts so it’s hard to envisage them having the motivation to win this & it’s hard to think they can actually win it but then again Porto have been so poor they will actually think they can.

FC Porto have been the disappointment of the Champions League so far for me, they’ve let me down several times already in the competition & on that basis alone it’s hard to put faith in them again but if Hulk has one of his games then they might just pull off the win they need to keep them alive.

Shaktar could win this but it’s hard to tip them with confidence, FC Porto could win this but again it’s hard to have enough faith in them to do that so on balance a scoring draw looks the call & a bet that offers the most value in a game that can go either way & it’s a game punters should treat with caution.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: DRAW
Correct Score options: 1-1/2-2
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Hulk/Almeida/Manduca
 
 
BATE Borisov vs FC Viktoria Plzen:- In terms of future Champions League progress then neither BATE Borisov or Viktoria Plzen have any chance of achieving that as they are guaranteed to finish in the bottom 2 but this game does matter because there still is a place in the Europa League up for grabs.

BATE Borisov currently hold advantage in the race for the 3rd place finish that will produce a place in the Europa League as they do sit 3rd with 2 points against Plzen’s 1 point so we should see both teams going for it here & based on what we’ve seen then they’ve both got a fair chance.

Both BATE & Plzen have struggled to score goals but when you are playing AC Milan & Barcelona then that’s understandable and quite clearly this game is the best chance both teams will have to score the goals they need & this match could well come down who defends best on the night.

I was seriously tempted to go with a scoring draw here as both teams have similar strengths & weaknesses but I was quite impressed with how BATE did at home against AC Milan & I think home advantage could be the decisive factor here & BATE Borisov look worth backing to get the job done on home soil.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: BATE BORISOV to win
Correct Score options: BATE BORISOV to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: BRESSAN/
 
 
AC Milan vs Barcelona:- It is always fascinating when teams of the stature of AC Milan & Barcelona clash in the Champions League with the amazing 2-2 draw from earlier in the group phase showing what can be produced & hopefully this will be another classic to enjoy.

Barcelona come into this game in prime position at the top of the table with a 2 point lead over AC Milan & avoiding defeat here will guarantee Barcelona win the group but Barcelona don’t play to draw matches & I’m expecting them to go all out to win this match & of course given the attacking quality they have that is possible but I must also admit their defence does worry me.

For AC Milan then this match represents the last chance they have to win the Group, to do that they have got to win their last two games & quite clearly that’s going to be very tough but I actually believe they could well be worth backing to get a positive result here & even win it.

AC Milan are a huge price to win this match & while that obviously reflects the quality of Barcelona, I believe the huge price is an insult to AC Milan & they have a far better chance of winning this than the odds suggest and they are definitely value to get something here.

Backing against Barcelona will not pay off many times in a season & many will see getting 8/11 for Barcelona to win any game is a huge price but I think they are beatable & especially in game like this given AC Milan’s quality & with home advantage I’m going to take a value punt on AC Milan pulling off a shock & winning this.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: AC MILAN to win
Correct Score options: AC Milan to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Robinho/Ibrahimovic/Boateng

Well those are my own independent views for the midweek action in the Champions League & hopefully you find them interesting & informative in some way.

The idea behind the betting recommendations is to cover the main football betting markets hopefully they help guide you towards successful punts on what should prove to be another truly fascinating & dramatic set of Champions League matches.

Remember to check the latest team news before you bet & also to shop around for the best odds & best terms available and good luck with whatever bets you have.

Champions League Group Stage Match Day 4 Previews

With the first three group stage games out of the way the Champions League Group stage has now reached a pivotal point for so many teams & there is no doubting that this round of matches could well decide the fate of so many teams, many will secure qualifcation while many know that they another bad result will see them fail.

The twist to this set of matches is that all the teams only played each 2 weeks ago & that definitely adds a different dynamic to the games and should make a good spread of entertaining, action packed matches to enjoy.

I have had a good look at the fixtures & here are my brief thoughts on the games & my recommendations on them for your consideration:

 
 
Tuesday fixtures for the Champions League:

Genk vs Chelsea :- Genk really only have their own pride to play for now in the Champions League with only 1 point & no goals scored to show for their efforts in the first 3 group games but that said it’s hard to see them getting anything here against a Chelsea side that brushed them aside 5-0 only a few weeks ago.
 
Chelsea cruised through that game & won as easily as they wanted with Genk offering very little in return and to be honest I expect a repeat of those circumstances here, while Chelsea probably won’t match the 5-0 scoreline, Chelsea look worth backing win with comfort again.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: CHELSEA to win
Correct Score options: Chelsea to win 2-0/3-0
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Torres/Mata/Lampard
 
 
Valencia vs Bayer Leverkusen:- This is an absolutely crucial match in the group & may well decide which of Valencia or Bayer Leverkusen goes through to join Chelsea in the next round & it’s set up to be a really intense, competitive battle.
 
Valencia simply have to win, no other result will do & indeed losing here will completely blow their chances of qualifying and put Bayer Leverkusen through so the pressure is definitely on Valencia in this one & how they cope with the pressure will be the key to this match.
 
Bayern Leverkusen showed real quality & character to come from behind to beat Valencia 2-1 a few weeks ago and they will believe they can again get something from this match and I must say I agree.
 
Valencia have traditionally been very strong at home & generally hard to beat, in fact I don’t think they will get beaten here but at the same time Bayer Leverkusen have enough to get a result here as well & on balance a competitive scoring draw looks the value call in this one.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: DRAW
Correct Score options: 1-1/2-2
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Soldado/Schurrle/
 
 
Arsenal vs Marseille :- There can be no denying just how important that 90th minute winning goal against Marseille was two weeks ago & as long as Arsenal avoid defeat here then they should go to win this group.
 
Winning the group will mean Arsenal are likely to avoid the other Group topping big guns such as the likes of Barcelona, Real Madrid, Inter Milan and that surely will be all the motivation the Arsenal players need to finish the job off here as victory here will surely seal the group.
 
Marseille do have quality players that have to be respected & Arsenal will have to make sure they organise themselves properly in defensive areas but confidence is building within the Arsenal squad & that combined with home advantage should see Arsenal getting the win they need & they are worth backing to do that.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: ARSENAL to win
Correct Score options: Arsenal to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Van Persie/Gervinho/Walcott
 
Borussia Dortmund vs Olympiakos :- Borussia Dortmund have to win – it is as simple as that & while Olympiakos command maximum respect after beating Dortmund 3-1 two weeks ago, Dortmund have to go for the win & that should be deciding factor here.
 
Clearly Olympiakos will not be easy to beat & will no doubt set up to be hard to break down & are dangerous to dismiss but Borussia Dortmund are very strong at home & their fantastic crowd can inspire them to get a vital win here.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: BORUSSIA DORTMUND win
Correct Score options: Borussia Dortmund win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Lewandowski/Pirisic/Gotze
 
 
Zenit St. Petersburg vs Shaktar Donetsk :- These two produce a fantastic, entertaining goal filled 90 minutes 2 weeks ago & there is every chance of getting a repeat here as both Zenit & Shaktar know they are still with in a great chance of qualifying & both will look for the win here.
 
I’m expecting both teams to really go for this & the attacking quality on show should produce a few goals & both Zenit & Shaktar are more than capable of winning this but they couldn’t be split first time around & I think the value lies in backing them to share a few goals & share the points here.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: DRAW
Correct Score options: 1-1/2-2
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Jadson/Shirikov/Willian
 
 
Apoel Nicosia vs FC Porto :- This is a massively important match in the context of this group with both Apoel & Porto still holding a great chance of qualifying & indeed winning the group so this should be another competitive like the first game that finished 1-1 two weeks ago.
 
That 1-1 draw was a big shock with Porto big favourites to win at home but credit has to got Apoel who fought back after going behind early & clearly they have to be seriously respected back on home turf with their fantastic support sure to create a really intense atmosphere.
 
Apoel will look to make this a tough test for Porto & Porto will have to be at their best to get something here, the first goal is key to how this game will go but I think Porto have the edge in terms of quality & Hulk can lead them to a massive win here.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: FC PORTO to win
Correct Score options: FC Porto to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Hulk/
 
 
 
BATE Borisov vs AC Milan:- AC Milan did a solid, professional job to beat BATE 2-0 a couple of weeks ago & surely they can be fancied to do the same again here.
 
BATE should offer more of a threat this time around & of course they will have the home support behind them but AC Milan are far superior in terms of player quality & AC Milan look worth backing to get the job done again with Ibrahimovic leading the line again.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: AC MILAN to win
Correct Score options: AC Milan win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Ibrahimovic/Cassano/Pato
 
 
 
Viktoria Plzen vs Barcelona :-  This match will be an absolute formality & Barcelona will win comfortably, the only factor punters have to think about is how many goals will Barcelona score this time around.
 
2 weeks ago Barcelona rather surprisingly could only manage a 2-0 win at home but in reality it could & should have been upwards of 4-0 and I would think the starting point for this match is 3-0 & upwards, take your pick which score you go for with Messi & Co likely to catch up on the goals they missed out on the first time around.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: BARCELONA to win
Correct Score options: Barcelona to win 3-0/4-0
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Messi/Villa/Pedro

Wednesday fixtures for the Champions League:

Bayern Munich vs Napoli :- Both Bayern Munich & Napoli come into this vital match unbeaten after the first 3 games & both teams will certainly be happy if that unbeaten status is still intact after this match which is going to be a tough, competitive encounter.
 
Napoli responded very well in the last game to earn a draw after going behind very early on against Bayern Munich & they’ve done more than enough to suggest they can go to Munich and really make it hard for Bayern Munich but at the same time they will have to play very, very well to get anything from this as Munich are very, very strong at home.
 
Bayern Munich are in control of Group A & will look to just about seal it with a win here while Napoli are likely to be content with a draw so I’m expecting both sides to be really competitive & another scoring draw was tempting but Bayern Munich’s strength at home is pretty formidable & they are worth backing to just have too much quality for Napoli in this one.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: BAYERN MUNICH to win
Correct Score options: Bayern Munich to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Gomez/Robben/Ribery
 
 
 
Villareal vs Manchester City :- The 93rd minute goal that Aguero scored 2 weeks ago to help Man City grab a dramatic late 2-1 win may well prove to be an absolutely pivotal moment of their season & it’s most definitely a goal that has kept Man City in this seasons Champions League but at the same time virtually destroyed Villareal’s hopes for this year.
 
Quite simply Villareal have to look to win this game just to stay alive in the competition & Manchester City have to look to win as well so this should be a good, honest contest.
 
Villareal’s style is usually to play calm, controlled possession football but that won’t help them to create the chances to win this game & they really have got to look to be positive which should open the game up for Manchester City’s superior attacking quality to take advantage & given that huge confidence boost by Aguero’s goal, Roberto Mancini’s men look worth backing to get a massive away win here.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: MANCHESTER CITY to win
Correct Score options: Manchester City to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Aguero/Silva/Nasri
 
 
 
Inter Milan vs Lille :- Inter Milan were too good & too strong for Lille in France 2 weeks ago & I’m taking them to repeat that & do the double over Lille to keep control of the group.
 
Lille do deserve respect given the individual quality they have but they have not really done it so far in the Champions League & they don’t look as though they’ve got enough about them to go into the San Siro & get the win they need and they will have to be at their best to get any type of positive result here.
 
Inter Milan suffered a massive shock by losing their first home game against Trabzonspor but they’ve turned things around since then & now look on their way back to their best form & if they do that here then they look worth following & worth backing to inflict another damaging defeat on Lille.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: INTER MILAN to win
Correct Score options: Inter Milan to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Sneijder/Pazzini/Cambiasso
 
 
 
 
Trabzonspor vs CSKA Moscow :- Trabzonspor went into the first game against CSKA top of Group B & 3 points clear of CSKA but things look a whole lot different now after CSKA won that easily 3-0 and now it’s CSKA who have the advantage over Trabzonspor in what looks a straight fight between themselves for 2nd place behind Inter Milan.
 
Those circumstances make this a vital & quite probably pivotal game in the group and both sides will be looking to win but at the same time also making sure they don’t lose and that does complicate things in terms in working out which way this game might go & to be honest all results look possible here.
 
Trabzonspor are usually very, very strong at home with the intensity of their crowd behind them always making it a real test for their rivals & making Trabzonspor hard to beat but CSKA Moscow have more attacking quality & were very impressive in beating Trabzonspor so on balance a competitive, scoring draw looks a value call here & both teams may well end up happy with that come the final whistle.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: DRAW
Correct Score options: 1-1/2-2
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Doumbia/Colman/Love
 
 
 
 
Benfica vs Basel :- Benfica have been impressive so far in this years Champions League & they highlighted their form by comfortably beating Basle 2-0 away so this is going to be another tough test for Basle & one that I don’t really expect them to pass.
 
Basle obviously command respect for the way they fought back after being 2-0 down against Manchester United at Old Trafford to end up getting a 3-3 draw but they were brushed aside by Benfica at home and I just don’t see how they can turn that around in Benfica on a ground where Benfica are always incredibly tough to play against & even tougher to beat no matter who they are playing.
 
Both Benfica & Basle look to play good football so this should be an entertaining game to watch but in terms of the final result I can’t look beyond Benfica winning this with the inspirational Cardozo most likely to lead to victory.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: BENFICA to win
Correct Score options: Benfica to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Cardozo/Nolito/Caesar
 
 
 
 
Manchester United vs Otelul Galati :-  Manchester United were rubbish against Otelul in the first game & needed to penalties to win the game but they won & that’s all the history books will remember and that’s all that matters to Manchester United right now.
 
There isn’t really much point in talking about this game for too long, Manchester United are vastly superior to Galati  & to be absolutely honest Manchester United can probably afford to be as rubbish again & still win this game but I don’t think they can play as bad again here & I’m expecting a few more goals to go in this time around no matter who plays.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: MANCHESTER UNITED to win
Correct Score options: Manchester United to win 3-0/4-0
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Rooney/Hernandez/Nani 
 
 
 
Ajax vs Dinamo Zagreb :- Going into the first clash between Ajax & Dinamo it was always likely that whoever lost was going to be all but dead & buried in this competition and so Ajax’s comfortable defeat leaves Dinamo Zagreb with virtually nowhere to go & nothing to play for so I’m expecting this to match to be all about Ajax & how well they play, if they play anywhere well enough they will win.
 
The 2-0 away win in Zargreb was so comfortable for Ajax it almost looked like a training game at times with Dinamo offering very little threat & all it took was two simple, well crafted goals from Ajax to finish the job and I’m going with Ajax to show their extra quality & repeat that comfortable win here.
 
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: AJAX to win
Correct Score options: AJAX to win 2-0/3-0
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Soulamani/Eriksen
 
 
 
Lyon vs Real Madrid :- Jose Mourinho’s Real Madrid look a real, potent force in the Champions League this season & 3 convincing, stylish wins from 3 matches shows just how superior they have been to all their Group D rivals and quite simply if Real Madrid want to go through the group with 6 wins from 6 they can do, it’s entirely up to how they play.
 
Now that might sound simplistic & dismissive of teams with several quality players amongst them but Lyon are a decent side on their day yet they were well & truly dismissed 4-0 with ease by Real Madrid in the last game & as long as Real Madrid show the same desire to win here then their extra quality will be too much for Lyon again in this match.
 
Lyon have to be respected at home & they have done well against Real Madrid in the past on this ground but this time around I cannot oppose Real Madrid & they can seal victory in this group by winning here with comfort again with Ronaldo, Benzema, Kaka, Higuain, Alonso, Kadeira & all the other quality Real Madrid squad just too good for Lyon.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: REAL MADRID to win
Correct Score options: Real Madrid to win 3-0/3-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Ronaldo/Benzema/Di Maria

Well those are my own independent views for the midweek action in the Champions League & hopefully you find them interesting & informative in some way.

The idea behind the betting recommendations is to cover the main football betting markets hopefully they help guide you towards successful punts on what should prove to be another truly fascinating & dramatic set of Champions League matches.

Remember to check the latest team news before you bet & also to shop around for the best odds & best terms available and good luck with whatever bets you have.

Champions League Group Stage Match Day 3 Previews

This week all 32 group stage qualifiers take their chances again in what look set to be a really fascinating set of fixtures that should provide plenty of drama, quality, entertainment & goals for us all to enjoy again.

I have had a good look at the fixtures & here are my brief thoughts on the games & my recommendations on them for your consideration:

 
 
Tuesday fixtures for the Champions League:

Manchester City vs Villareal:- Manchester City have to win this to keep their hopes of progressing through the group stages going & thankfully for them it looks as though they are coming up against a Villareal side in decline & I’m expecting Roberto Mancini’s side to take the points here.
 
Neither Man City or Villareal have been that impressive so far in this competition with Man City only having 1 point & Villareal having been very disappointing against both Bayern Munich & Napoli so both sides have the pressure of knowing they need to win this so hopefully that won’t make this a tight, nervous game but it could do that.
 
The fact Man City have failed to perform so far in their first 2 Champions League games is a concern & the next 2 games against Villareal are vital but this is definitely their best chance of a win as Villareal don’t appear to as strong anymore & a comfortable win for Manchester City has to be the call here.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match result:- MANCHESTER CITY to win
Correct Score options: Man City to win 3-0/3-1
First Goalscorer Each way/Players to score anytime:- Dzeko/Silva/Nasri
 
 
Bayern Munich vs Napoli:- These two sides have been fantastic so far in this group & no doubting that both Bayern Munich & Napoli will be believe they can progress through this group which means the two games they now have to play against each other, including this one, could well be vital in that so this should be a good contest & is certainly one that is not easy to call.
 
Bayern Munich have been excellent so far with 2 very convincing wins over Villareal & Man City so confidence levels with the Bayern Munich squad are bound to be sky high coming into this game & while they will have respect for Napoli & their quality, Bayern Munich will believe they have enough to beat any side & particularly at home so I’m expecting another very strong performance from Bayern Munich here.
 
4 points from their first 2 group games is a great return for Napoli & they’ve now given themselves a great chance of progressing through the group but to that they need to make sure they pick up points against Bayern Munich in their next 2 games & based on that I’m expecting them to concentrate on being hard to beat here & a draw would be fantastic result for them.
 
Two strong sides on show here so should be a very competitive game but I have been greatly impressed with Bayern Munich & I think they can have the edge over Napoli in this one & a home win looks the way to go here.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match result:- BAYERN MUNICH to win
Correct Score options: Bayern Munich to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer Each way/Players to score anytime:- Gomez/Ribery/Muller
 
 
 
CSKA Moscow vs Trabzonspor:- Bottom of Group B against top of Group B here as CSKA Moscow come up against surprise package Trabzonspor looking for a massively important win to kick start what has been a poor Champions League campaign so far but Trabzonspor will not go down easy in this one.
 
CSKA Moscow have to get at least 4 points from their next two group games against Trabzonspor to have any chance in the group & with it very tough for all teams to get anything away in Turkey, this is the game that CSKA Moscow have to look to win & they have to go for it.
 
For Trabzonspor then they’ve already achieved far more than most expected & their target will surely be to attempt to stay organised & hard to beat and indeed a draw here would be a another great result but they will have to play very well to achieve that.
 
Trabszonspor have to be given huge respect here given what they did to Inter Milan & they are capable of making this a really tough test for CSKA but I think home advantage can inspire CSKA to get that vital win they win & they look worth a punt to just have the edge here.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match result:- CSKA MOSCOW to win
Correct Score options: CSKA Moscow to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer Each way/Players to score anytime:- Wagner Love/Doumbia/Dzageov
 
 
 
Lille vs Inter Milan:- We have a fascinating game in prospect here as both Lille & Inter Milan have already experienced plenty of highs & lows in this years competition all of which combined makes this a tough game to call with confidence.
 
Lille have 2 draws so far but they would have been desperately disappointed to have thrown away a 2 goal lead in the first game with those dropped a potentially massive loss so back here at home they certainly have to look to get that first win on the board.
 
Inter Milan’s own version of highs & lows come with suffering a massive shock defeat at home to Trabzonspor but then producing a very good performance to win 3-2 away in Moscow with that victory certain to have given the entire Inter Milan squad a huge confidence boost & they’ve certainly got the talent to win this if at their best.
 
There is a great deal of individual quality on show here from both Lille & Inter Milan, both have goalscorers & match winners who can edge them the game but there is so much quality & the pressure on them both not to lose will make this a seriously competitive match & with this likely to be very close, an entertaining scoring draw looks a likely scenario & definitely a bet that offers plenty of value worth taking.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match result:- DRAW
Correct Score options: 1-1/2-2
First Goalscorer Each way/Players to score anytime:- Sneijder/Hazard/Milito
 
 
 
Basel vs Benfica:- Basel getting an unexpected point & indeed near win against Manchester United really has opened Group C up and that now places huge importance on the two games between Basel & Benfica as both teams will now believe they have every chance of qualifying through the group.
 
I’ve been massively impressed with both Basel & Benfica in their performances against Manchester United & they’ve both clearly got enough quality to cause each other big problems here, I can see a few goals going in & both sides are capable of winning but on balance they are two well balanced sides & it looks likely to be a competitive battle that looks worth backing to finish in a scoring draw that should keep both teams happy enough at this stage.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match result:- DRAW
Correct Score options: 1-1/2-2
First Goalscorer Each way/Players to score anytime:- Frei/Cardozo/Nolito
 
 
 
Otelul Galati vs Manchester United:- After 2 draws from their opening 2 games Manchester United have to win this & I think they will win this.
 
Now that might sound simplistic & too immediately dismissive of the home team but they don’t look up to this level & this match completely evolves around Manchester United & when they have to win, they usually always do.
 
I just don’t see how Manchester United will not win this as long as they play to their level of form then they should have too much quality & get the win they need to get back into the group.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match result:- MANCHESTER UNITED to win
Correct Score options: Manchester United to win 2-0/3-0
First Goalscorer Each way/Players to score anytime:- Rooney/Hernandez/Nani
 
 
 
Dinamo Zagreb vs Ajax:- Being in the same group as Real Madrid & Lyon then it is the games against each other that represent both Dinamo Zagreb’s & Ajax’s best chance of getting positive results so that should mean this & the following game should be good, open games that will see both teams going for it.
 
Zagreb are yet to earn a point or even score yet but they played well enough for long periods of the game at home to Real Madrid to suggest they can be really competitive here & they will believe they can use home advantage to get the points here.
 
For Ajax then there is no doubt that this is their best chance so far within what is a really tough group to get that vital first win but like Zagreb they are yet to score & I’m not sure if they’ve quite got the quality required to compete properly at this level but at least their positive football will give them a chance.
 
This is definitely a match that is tough to call & I was seriously tempted to go with another draw here but the Dinamo Zagreb fans generate a pretty hostile atmosphere & I’m going to take a punt that the home support can make home advantage pay for Dinamo Zagreb & they look worth risking to win this.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match result:- DINAMO ZAGREB to win
Correct Score options: Dinamo Zagreb to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer Each way/Players to score anytime:- Krstanovic/Rukavina/Situm
 
 
 
Real Madrid vs Lyon:- These two great clubs have clashed several times in this competition in recent years producing some fantastic games & I’m certainly expecting Real Madrid & Lyon to produce some more this time around but result wise I cannot see anything other than a Real Madrid win here.
 
Lyon have done very well against Real Madrid in this competition in the past & there is no doubt that they’ve got the quality to cause Real Madrid problems but this match really is all about what Real Madrid do as they were quite brilliant in their last Champions League match & have generally played very, very well so far this season and I just don’t see how Lyon can cope defensively with the likes of Ronaldo, Higuain, Di Maria, Benzema, Ozil & Kaka and I think Real Madrid are well worth backing to win this with style.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match result:- REAL MADRID to win
Correct Score options: REAL MADRID to win 3-0/3-1
First Goalscorer Each way/Players to score anytime:- Ronaldo/Higuain/Benzema

Wednesday fixtures for the Champions League

Bayer Leverkusen vs Valencia:- It is quite clear that Chelsea are very strong favourites to win Group E so that looks likely to leave Bayer Leverkusen & Valencia as rivals for 2nd spot and that should mean they both come into this game positive & looking for the win and in turn that should make this a really competitive match that can go either way.
 
Bayer Leverkusen have the advantage over Valencia coming into this game as they have the 3 points gained from their solid last time out win at home & that would have given the entire Bayer Leverkusen squad a huge confidence boost coming into this game & I’m expecting Bayer Leverkusen to make it a real test for Valencia.
 
Valencia have started with 2 draws but while they are unbeaten, they have been quite disappointing in only drawing 0-0 against Genk and then fortunate to get the draw literally handed to them by Chelsea in the last game so Valencia do have to step up in this one & look to get back to winning ways.
 
This is a huge game in the context of the group & defeat to either Leverkusen or Valencia would be a huge blow so with Bayer Leverkusen very strong at home & Valencia always tough to beat in this competition a competitive draw looks a likely scenario & appeals as a value bet worth taking.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match result:- DRAW
Correct Score options: 1-1/2-2
First Goalscorer Each way/Players to score anytime:- Ballack/Soldado/
 
 
 
Chelsea vs Genk:-  4 points from 6 is a satisfactory return for Chelsea from their first two group games & to be fair they have played more than well enough to have all 6 but for a stupid mistake by Kalou against Valencia which gave the Spanish side a penalty & draw they didn’t really deserve.
 
Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas was greatly frustrated by dropping those points & he’s certain to make sure the Chelsea players know that nothing like that will be tolerated or indeed can be allowed to happen again & from that I’m expecting a very professional, determined & indeed winning performance from Chelsea in this one.
 
Genk play decent football & will get some confidence from the fact Chelsea have struggled to keep clean sheets so far this season but I envisage Chelsea’s superior quality to produce a few goals here & a comfortable home win looks they way to go in this one.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match result:- CHELSEA to win
Correct Score options: Chelsea to win 3-0/3-1
First Goalscorer Each way/Players to score anytime:- Torres/Lampard/Drogba
 
 
 
Marseille vs Arsenal:- It is highly likely that it will be Marseille & Arsenal going through from this group but the big question is which team will win the group & that may well be decided over the next 2 games when they play each other so no doubt they are massively important games and that should make this a seriously competitive but entertaining game to watch.
 
Good, positive football should be the order of the day here and I’m expecting both Marseille & Arsenal to look to win the game, victory for Marseille will virtually secure their qualification while victory for Arsenal will take them to the top of the group & put them firmly in control to win the group.
 
In terms of which way I think this game can go then both sides have more than enough attacking quality to win the game but I can’t split them as I can see them both scoring & for me that makes an entertaining, scoring draw look like the best value option here.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match result:- DRAW
Correct Score options: 1-1/2-2
First Goalscorer Each way/Players to score anytime:- Gonzalez/Van Persie/Remy
 
 
Olympiakos vs Borussia Dortmund:- This is a massively important game to both Olympiakos & Borussia Dortmund as they are already detached in from front runners Arsenal & Marseille & so they’ve both go to look to get something from the match & most probably they need a win so that should make this a decent, open game.
 
Olympiakos are always tough to beat at home with the intense atmosphere generated by a tremendously passionate crowd the main reason behind that so they will be confident they can get something here while Dortmund have to bounce back from their disappointing 3-0 defeat last time & they will look to be really positive here so it’s definitely a complex game to work out.
 
My starting point for working out this match is that I don’t think Olympiakos will be beaten but I also think that Dortmund have enough goal threats within their side to get goals & I can see this being a really competitive, scoring draw & that certainly appeals as a value bet worth taking.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match result:- DRAW
Correct Score options: 1-1/2-2
First Goalscorer Each way/Players to score anytime:- Perisic/Lewandowski/Gotze
 
 
 
FC Porto vs Apoel Nicosia:-   FC Porto are usually very, very strong at home & I expect them to prove that by winning this & taking the 3 points they need after suffering defeat last time.
 
Apoel Nicosia do deserve respect as they are a competitive,  well organised side with real spirit & they will look to make things tough but they never carry the same threat away from home & Hulk can lead FC Porto to another home win here.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match result:- FC PORTO to win
Correct Score options: FC Porto to win 3-0/3-1
First Goalscorer Each way/Players to score anytime:- Hulk/Rodriguez/Kleber
 
 
 
Shaktar Donetsk vs Zenit St. Petersburg:- Lots of quality on show here with Shaktar  & Zenit both sides who are committed to play attacking football and that could well make this one of the most entertaining Champions League matches of the week but deciding which way it will go is not easy.
 
With respect to Shaktar Donetsk then they simply have to look to win this game having only achieved 1 point from their first 2 games & they cannot afford to lose anymore ground in the group so they have be positive & make the most of the creative, attacking quality they have within their side.
 
For Zenit then this match represents a chance to continue their excellent start to the group & they know avoiding defeat will be a big positive but they also know they have the individual quality to win this & their fantastic win over Porto will give them huge confidence going into this game.
 
This is not an easy game to call given the quality on both sides & I must admit that the draw really does appeal but I just think that Shaktar Donetsk have the extra motivation to win this & I think they are worth backing to make home advantage pay & take 3 massive points here.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match result:- SHAKTAR DONETSK to win
Correct Score options: Shaktar Donetsk to win 2-1/3-1
First Goalscorer Each way/Players to score anytime:- Jadson/Adriano
 
 
 
AC Milan vs Bate Borisov:- Bate Borisov will be relieved they are not facing Barcelona again after they were taken apart last time out & suffered a heavy defeat but at the same time if they don’t play any better here then AC Milan have the talent to win just as comfortably & BATE will do very, very well to get anything here.
 
AC Milan have looked very good in the Champions League so far earning a highly respectable 2-2 draw in Barcelona followed by a comfortable 2-0 home win against Plzen so it seems hard to imagine that this will be anything other than another comfortable home win for AC Milan with Ibrahimovic & Pato likely to the lead the way.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match result:- AC MILAN to win
Correct Score options: AC Milan to win 2-0/3-0
First Goalscorer Each way/Players to score anytime:- Ibrahimovic/Pato/Cassano
 
 
 
Barcelona vs FC Viktoria Plzen:-  There is no real point in spending too long discussing this match, if Barcelona don’t win & win comfortably it will be one of the biggest shocks the Champions League has seen.
 
Quite simply this looks a complete mis-match & I’m expecting Barcelona to just have far too much class for Champions League newcomers Plzen & if they so choose to then Messi, Xavi, Villa  & the rest of the multi-talented Barcelona team can help themselves to a few goals & 3 straightforward points.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match result:- BARCELONA to win
Correct Score options: BARCELONA to win 3-0/4-0
First Goalscorer Each way/Players to score anytime:- Messi/Villa/Pedro

Well those are my own independent views for the midweek action in the Champions League & hopefully you find them interesting & informative in some way.

The idea behind the betting recommendations is to cover the main football betting markets hopefully they help guide you towards successful punts on what should prove to be another truly fascinating & dramatic set of Champions League matches.

Remember to check the latest team news before you bet & also to shop around for the best odds & best terms available and good luck with whatever bets you have.

Champions League Group Stage Match 2 Previews & Recommendations

The Group stages of the Champions League proper kicked off 2 weeks ago & there were some great games to enjoy & goals to savour with the 16 matches producing 32 goals so hopefully that figure will be beaten this week, if that’s the case then we are in for a cracking set of games.

This week all 32 group stage qualifiers take their chances again in what look set to be a really fascinating set of fixtures that should provide plenty of drama, quality, entertainment & goals for us all to enjoy again.

I have had a good look at the fixtures & here are my brief thoughts on the games & my recommendations on them for your consideration:

Champions League Tuesday 27th September:

Bayern Munich vs Manchester City:-  Their excellent early season form in the Premier League meant that Manchester City went into their debut Champions League game against Napoli as strong favourites & as a very confident side with them widely expected to win comfortably but Napoli clearly had different ideas & produced a very good performance to earn a draw.
 
That tough draw would have certainly made it clear to everybody at Man City that the Champions League is a much more demanding test than domestic football & that they cannot afford to perform below standard otherwise they will fail & that will certainly give them concern ahead of this trip to a Bayern Munich side who are very, very good at home & particularly good in this competition.
 
The fact Bayern Munich won away in their match while Man City only drew at home makes this a truly massive game as Man City cannot afford to lose & be 5 points behind Bayern after only 2 games so the pressure is definitely on Manchester City to get something here but they will have to play very well to do that.
 
In terms of squad strength & individual ability then Man City have the edge & have the capability to go Munich & win but I think Bayern Munich will test them to the full in this match & a seriously competitive, entertaining scoring draw looks a sensible option here & it wouldn’t be bad result for either side.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result:    DRAW    Correct Score options: 1-1/2-2
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Gomez/Aguero/Ribery
 
 
 
 
Napoli vs Villareal:- Napoli came out of their first group stage match away at Manchester City with an excellent team performance & indeed an excellent result with their 1-1 draw a deserved reward for their efforts & there is no doubting that will give them huge confidence to take into this very important home game against Villareal.
 
Villareal will certainly come into this match determined to play  much better than they did when losing 2-0 at home to Bayern Munich & they have the individual attacking quality to cause Napoli problems if they play to their best but Napoli will really be confident ahead of this game & I’m taking them to make home advantage pay by getting a massively important win that could well give them an excellent chance in this seriously tough group.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result:    NAPOLI to win         Correct Score options: Napoli win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Cavani/Levazzi/Hamsik
 
 
 
 
CSKA Moscow vs Inter Milan: -It’s too early in the group stages to say that Inter Milan are in danger of missing out but there is no doubting that Inter Milan come into this match under huge pressure given their recent failings in all competitions & they simply cannot afford to lose again after shockingly losing at home to Trabzonspor last time out.
 
Claudio Ranieri is the man who’s now been appointed into the Inter Milan management hot seat & in time he should do well given his experience & the quality at his disposal but he will know that a bad result here will not be tolerated by the fans so I’m expecting Inter Milan to look to be hard to beat first & look to gain control of the game before they go for the win.
 
For CSKA Moscow this represents a chance to build upon what turned out be a very good draw against Lille after coming back from 2-0 down & that should give the entire squad the confidence to be positive in this match & this could be the big chance they need to make a really strong push for qualification from this group.
 
Inter Milan have the quality to win any game when on their best form but they’ve not really shown that yet & there is no doubting that this will be a tough test with CSKA Moscow a talented group who are usually very hard to beat at home & on balance a competitive, scoring draw looks a likely scenario here & appeals as a good value betting option worth taking here.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result:    DRAW       Correct Score options: 1-1/2-2
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Doumbia/Sneijder/Love
 
 
 
 
Trabzonspor vs Lille:- Trabzonspor produced the biggest shock of all during the 1st round of Champions League group stage matches by winning 1-0 in the San Siro & while Inter Milan clearly have their problems at the moment, that was an excellent result & will give Trabzonspor massive confidence for the remaining group stage games.
 
For Lille the first week was very much about what could have been after they threw away a 2-0 lead to draw 2-2 at home with CSKA Moscow & that would have been a huge blow to them & although they’ve undoubtedly got superior individual quality within their squad, it is never easy for any side going away to Turkey & Lille will find it a tough test & a fierce atmosphere to come through with a positive result.
 
It’s certainly not an easy game to call as Lille have more than enough match winners within their squad to win this game but I just sense that win at Inter Milan would have given the Trabzonspor players a huge lift & that combined with home advantage means a competitive draw looks the value call in this one.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result:    DRAW  Correct score options: 1-1/2-2
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Hazzard/Sow/Henrique
 
 
 
 
CS Otelul Galati vs Benfica:- Champions League debutants Otelul Galati will be pleased with the commitment & endeavour they showed away in Basle last week but ultimately they could not match a relatively limited Basle side & that has to be a concern coming up against a Benfica side who played very, very well against Manchester United last week.
 
Benfica were most definitely the better side in their 1-1 draw against Manchester United & certainly created enough chances to have won the game with several excellent saves from the Manchester United goalkeeper the only thing that prevented them from doing just that & to be fair if they play to that level of performance again here then Benfica should win this.
 
The only fear in backing Benfica is they don’t always produce their best away from home but they will not get many better chances to win away in the Champions League than this & I’m taking the powerful & lethal Cardozo to lead Benfica to a very important win here.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result:  BENFICA to win – Correct Score options: Benfica to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Cardozo/Witsel/Nolito
 
 
 
 
Manchester United vs Basel: Manchester United have started the season in fantastic form, have a stunning home record & indeed a stunning record in the Champions League so it just seems impossible to think they can be opposed here & barring a major shock they will beat Basle.
 
Of course Basle command respect as all Champions League teams have the quality to win games at this level & they did start with a solid 2-1 home win last week but in terms of player quality they come nowhere near Manchester United I just don’t see how Basle can get a positive result here if Manchester United play anywhere near to their best form.
 
The bookmakers have this as a done deal already in terms of the odds for Manchester United to win this & that can’t be argued with as I expect another comfortable home victory for Manchester United & correct score options look the way to go for betting value.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result:    MANCHESTER UNITED to win      Correct Score options: Man United to win 2-0/3-0
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Berbatov/Nani/Young
 
 
 
Lyon vs Dinamo Zagreb: Lyon are not the great force they once were in the Champions League but they have an excellent record in the group stages & that’s usually based on producing very good home performances & results so I’m expecting them to be too good for Dinamo Zagreb here.
 
Dinamo Zagreb command respect as they played very well for the majority of the game against Real Madrid but they tend to struggle away from home & don’t appear to carry too much of a goal threat so assuming Lyon play to their strengths at home then they should be too good for Zagreb & take the points in this one.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result:   LYON to win        Correct Score options: Lyon to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Gomis/Bastos/Briand
 
 
 
 
Real Madrid vs Ajax:-  Two of he greatest names in European football history clash in what should be a good footballing contest although it should be Jose Mourinho’s Real Madrid that come away with the points in this one.
 
Ajax have a great pedigree in europe & were once major players in the Champions League with their stylish, passing football dominant for so long & while they’ve kept their footballing philosophy they’ve also struggled to keep any of their star players & quite simply Real Madrid should have too much class at home & win this despite not being in the best of form, Real Madrid’s superior attacking capabilities can win the day here.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result:    REAL MADRID to win       Correct Score options: Real Madrid to win 3-0/3-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Ronaldo/Benzema/Di Maria
 
 
 

Champions League Wednesday  28th September:

 
Bayer Leverkusen vs Genk:- Neither of these two sides have a huge profile & particularly at this level so I can’t claim to know too much about their players individually but both teams do have a reputation for playing solid, organised football & the fact they are in the Champions League indicates they have the quality to at least compete so they both command respect.
 
With regards to how they both started their group stage campaigns then although Genk achieved a home 0-0 draw against Valencia I actually believe Bayer Leverkusen put in a better peformance as they were actually quite unlucky not to get something at Chelsea with a bad decision stopping a perfectly good goal & several other excellent chances being missed.
 
Based on those performances & given the fact that Bayer Leverkusen have home advantage here then I’m going to with German side to bounce back with a victory here & put themselves right back in the mix for the group.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result:    Bayern Leverkusen win       Correct Score options: Bayer Leverkusen win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime:  Ballack/Kiesling/Derdiyok
 
 
 
Valencia vs Chelsea:- Classic Champions League encounter in prospect here as Valencia & Chelsea clashing in a game that could well already decide who will win this group so it’s a massively important game that neither side can afford to lose.
 
Valencia are never easy to play at home in this competition & they will believe they have more than enough to test Chelsea here but they were disappointing in only managing a 0-0 draw at Genk in the first game so clearly they will have to improve on that to get past Chelsea.
 
Andre Villas-Boas was brought to Chelsea with a  huge reputation & a huge price tag to go with it so there is no doubting that Champions League success is something he has to look to achieve with Chelsea & there is no doubting that he’s under huge pressure to deliver &  quickly.
 
Chelsea got the job done in the first game against Bayer Leverkusen despite a few scares & that is generally how they’ve been so far this season with even their only defeat by Manchester United coming despite what was a very good performance & while Valencia are always tough to beat at home, Chelsea are superior in terms of talent & they look worth backing to earn a massive away win & almost secure Group E after only 2 games.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result:   CHELSEA to win         Correct Score options: Chelsea to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Torres/Anelka/Mata
 
 
 
Arsenal vs Olympiakos:- This is a massively important game for both Arsenal & Olympiakos as neither of them will happy with how their first group games went with Arsenal conceding in the last minute to let a lead slip while Olympiakos disappointingly lost 1-0 at home.
 
The good news for Arsenal is that they are usually pretty strong at home in the Champions League & Olympiakos are usually quite poor so while Arsenal will have to make sure they don’t make any silly defensive mistakes & be aware of the potential threat that Olympiakos carry, this game should evolve around what Arsenal do in an attacking sense & Arsenal’s superior attacking quality should be too much for Olympiakos & Wenger’s men can secure an important win here.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result:    ARSENAL to win       Correct Score options: Arsenal to win 3-0/3-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Van Persie/Gervinho/Arshavin

Marseille vs Borussia Dortmund:-  Very, very interesting game to call here as Marseille will be confident after their professional 1-0 away win at Olympiakos while Dortmund played very well in the first game against Arsenal.
 
This should be a good, competitive & indeed open contest as both sides look to play positive football & there could be a few goals in this one but deciding which way they will go & indeed which way the match will go is not an easy call to make.
 
Marseille are strong at home & Dortmund will go into this positive & looking to attack so it should be an entertaining, competitive clash that can go either way but this should be close & a scoring draw appeals as value option in this one.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result:   DRAW       Correct Score options: 1-1/2-2
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Gomez/Lewandowski/Remy

 
Zenit St Petersburg vs FC Porto:-  Another good, open footballing contest looks the call here as Zenit St Petersburg & FC Porto always look to win matches so this should be an entertaining match with a few goals to go around.
 
Zenit St Petersburg started with a 2-1 defeat after taking the lead while FC Porto started with a 2-1 win after going behind so clearly FC Porto come into this game in far better shape in the group & with far more confidence.
 
In terms of squad quality then both Zenit St Petersburg & FC Porto are fairly well matched & both have individuals who can win them the game with moments of quality so they are both capable of winning this but it’s probably more likely that neither side will want to lose & what should be a competitive game can produce a scoring draw that looks offers value & worth backing to happen.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result:    DRAW    Correct Score options: 1-1/2-2
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Hulk/Danny/Kerzhakov

Shakhtar Donetsk vs Apoel Nicosia:- This is a huge game for Shaktar Donetsk & one I expect them to win despite the efforts of an Apoel Nicosia side who deserve respect after coming from behind to win in the first group game.
 
Shaktar Donetsk would have been greatly disappointed to throw away a lead against Porto & then see it turn into a defeat and quite simply they have to win this game to get back into the group & I fully expect Shaktar to go all out in this contest to go for the win & given the attacking quality they’ve got then I think they will be too strong for Apoel Nicosia in this one.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result:  SHAKTAR DONETSK to win    Correct Score options: Shaktar Donetsk to win 2-0/3-0
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Eduardo/Jadson/Adriano

 
AC Milan vs FC Viktoria Plzen:- Both AC Milan & Plzen started with draws in the first set of matches but surely this match totally evolves around what AC Milan do & quite simply if they play to form then they will win.
 
AC Milan stunned Barcelona in the first game by taking the lead in the first few minutes & then again by making it 2-2 in the final minutes of the match so that valuable point should give them huge confidence going into this game & they should just have too much quality for a Plzen side making their debuts at this level of football.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result:    AC MILAN to win        Correct Score options: AC Milan to win 2-0/3-0
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Ibrahimovic/Cassano/Robinho
 

 
BATE Borisov vs Barcelona:- Barcelona should win this & win it well. That will come across as being dismissive of BATE Borisov but to be truthful Barcelona are dismissive of most teams they play & I expect them to dismiss BATE without too much fuss here.

Barcelona would have been very upset by conceding the last minute equaliser at home against AC Milan in the first game & dropping points was not ideal but since then they’ve smashed 8 goals in a league game & then followed that by beating a very strong Atletico Mardid side 5-0 with consumate ease & just an overall demonstration of pure class with Messi once again in supreme form.

Assuming that Barcelona go all out for this & play their strongest side then I don’t expect anything other than a very comfortable Barcelona win & that has to be the way to go in terms of a bet here.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result:    BARCELONA to win     Correct Score options: BARCELONA to win 2-0/3-0 
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Messi/Villa/Fabregas

Well those are my own independent views for the midweek action in the Champions League & hopefully you find them interesting & informative in some way.

The idea behind the betting recommendations is to cover the main football betting markets hopefully they help guide you towards successful punts on what should prove to be another truly fascinating & dramatic set of Champions League matches.

Remember to check the latest team news before you bet & also to shop around for the best odds & best terms available and good luck with whatever bets you have.

Champions League Group Stage Match 1 Recommendations

The Group stages of the Champions League proper kicks-off this week with all 32 group stage qualifiers taking their chances in what looks a really fascinating set of fixtures that should provide plenty of drama, quality, entertainment & goals for us all to enjoy again.

I have had a good look at the fixtures & here are my brief thoughts on the games & my recommendations on them for your consideration:

Tuesday Night fixtures in the Champions League:

APOEL NICOSIA vs ZENIT ST PETERSBURG:- I will not profess to know everything there is to know about these two sides but I do know that APOEL NICOSIA are usually very strong at home with their passionate fans generating a really intense atmosphere that tests teams so I can see them being hard to beat in this but at the same time ZENIT ST PETERSBURG have lots of high level european experience & a fair level of quality in their side and they will believe they can also get something from this match & so a very competitive, entertaining scoring draw looks the value call here.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: DRAW – Correct Score options: 1-1/2-2
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Kerzhakov/Solari/Ailton

BARCELONA vs AC MILAN:- Great match in prospect here between two of the biggest all time super power of high level european football & two teams who share incredibly successful history in this competition, on that note Barcelona are creating history all their time with their sensational play & there is no doubt they are the best club side seen in european history so while AC Milan will fight hard & certainly look to compete for everything here, it’s just impossible to oppose Barcelona in this competition in this type of fixture & Barcelona look a solid bet to start their group stage process with a good win.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result:    BARCELONA to win     Correct Score options: Barcelona to win 3-0/3-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Messi/Fabregas/Villa

CHELSEA vs BAYER LEVERKUSEN:- Chelsea have to be seen to be competing hard in every competition going but without doubt it is success in the Champions League that drives Roman Abrahmovic on & keeps him interested in Chelsea so no doubting that new manager Andre Villas-Boas knows that he has to look to deliver success in this competition so I’m expecting Chelsea to be completely focused on winning this match & to be fair they should certainly do that as they are far superior to Bayer Leverkusen but one interesting twist to the story sees former Chelsea player Michael Ballack return against his old club & it certainly would be a big story if he were able to guide Bayer Leverkusen to getting something from this game, I don’t think he will though & Chelsea to win this with a degree of comfort looks the best option to me.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result:      CHELSEA to win         Correct Score options: Chelsea to win 2-0/3-0
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Torres/Mata/Lampard

DORTMUND vs ARSENAL:- Very interesting clash in prospect as a struggling Dortmund side welcome an equally struggling Arsenal side so it’s a tough one to predict & indeed a match that can go either way. Given their mixed starts to the season & their shared tendency to concede silly goals through defensive errors could see a few goals going in here & both will believe they can score, I can see them both scoring at least once & on that basis a goalscoring draw appeals as value bet in this one.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result:    DRAW         Correct Score options: 1-1/2-2
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Van Persie/Barrios/Lewandownski

FC PORTO vs SHAKTAR DONETSK:- Two strong sides clash here & certainly two sides with lots of recent experience at the highest level so should certainly be a good, competitive contest that will take some winning with either side capable on their best form.

FC Porto have been really strong in recent years & especially at home so while Shaktar Donetsk will certainly make it a test for Port to break them down I can just see FC Porto having too much for them in this & a winning start for PORTO looks the way to go in this one.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result:  FC PORTO to win       Correct Score options: FC PORTO to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Hulk/Djalma/Kleber

GENK vs VALENCIA:- I can’t claim to know a lot about Genk as I have soon them a few times on TV but they clearly must have something great about them to be a this stage & so no doubt Valencia will be on top form for this & I expect them to be extra focused this week and I can see Valencia just having too much quality & they look worth a bet to get a massive away win.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result:  VALENCIA        Correct Score options: Valencia 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Soldado/Aduriz/Hernandez

OLYMPIACOS vs MARSEILLE:- In my opinion this was the toughest game of the entire Champion Leagues to try & work out with confidence which way this game will go.

Olympiacos are usually pretty strong at home & there is no doubting the home fans will craete a really hostile environoment but then again that should not be something that phases Marseille given their experience & they will believe their own quality and I can envisage this being a tough, competite mat that either side can win but if they can both start the group phases with something positive & good scoring draw looks the value bet in this race.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result:      DRAW     Correct Score options: 1-1/2-2
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Valbuena/Gignac/Pantelic

VICTORIA PLEZ vs BATE BORISOV:- I will confess to have never having come across the team name of VICTORIA PLEZ & I know very little of them both & hard to know or what to predict what will happen here but surely both sides will want to start with at least a point so I’m going to take a punt that Victoria Plez will go for it being the home side & I think VICTORIA PLEZ can just edge this one but it certainly will not be easy.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: VICTORIA PLEZ to win     Correct Score options: Victoria Plez win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Duris/Pilar/Bakos

Well those are my own independent views for the midweek action in the Champions League & hopefully you find them interesting & informative in some way.

The idea behind the betting recommendations is to cover the main football betting markets hopefully they help guide you towards successful punts on what should prove to be another truly fascinating & dramatic set of Champions League matches.

Remember to check the latest team news before you bet & also to shop around for the best odds & best terms available and good luck with whatever bets you have.

Champions League Group Stage Match 1 Recommendations – (Wednesday Night Matches)

The Group stages of the Champions League proper kicks-off this week with all 32 group stage qualifiers taking their chances in what looks a really fascinating set of fixtures that should provide plenty of drama, quality, entertainment & goals for us all to enjoy again.

I have had a good look at the fixtures & here are my brief thoughts on the games & my recommendations on them for your consideration:

Wednesday Night fixtures in the Champions League:

MAN CITY vs NAPOLI:- Well this is what the £1 billion investment into Manchester City was all about & this first taste of Champions League football will certainly not be Manchester City’s last as they look destined to be a major force over the coming years. Roberto Mancini has got an incredible wealth of top class talent at his disposal & while this is the club’s first Champions League experience, the likes of Toure, Silva, Nasri, Tevez, Aguero, Dzeko have all experienced it before & certainly can take Manchester City a long way in this competition.
The fact Man City are quoted at 2/5 to beat Napoli here tells us exactly what the bookmakers expect & while Napoli have to be given respect, anything other than a comfortable win for Manchester City would be a huge shock & I don’t expected to be shocked in this one, Mancini’s men can land the short odds with a comfortable win in this one.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: MAN CITY win – Correct Score options: Man City win 2-0/3-0
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Aguero/Silva/Dzeko

VILLAREAL vs BAYERN MUNICH:- This may well be the first of 6 group matches but it just might the most important one as there seems to be little doubt that it will one of either Villareal or Bayern Munich qualifying from this group alongside Manchester City so quite clearly there is everything to play for in this one & most definitely a must not lose match.
That said the advantage gained from winning this match would be huge  & so I expect both teams to have a real go at winning this, Villareal will go about it in their more calm, measured way of passing football to feed the brilliance of Nilmar & Rossi up front while no doubt Bayern Munich will look to play their more dynamic, high energy based football with Ribery, Robben, Schweinsteiger & Gomez providing the mix of power, pace & technical quality.
How those two styles of football clashing here will determine this game & it’s definitely a game that can go either way but I just feel Bayern Munich have that extra quality in the key areas & they can travel to Villareal & get a famous and indeed massively important win.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: BAYERN MUNICH win – Correct Score options: Bayern Munich win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Gomez/Ribery/Robben

INTER MILAN vs TRABZONSPOR:-  2010 UEFA Champions League winners Inter Milan welcome Trabzonspor to the San Siro for what the bookmakers believe is a match which Inter Milan already have won with general quotes of 2/5 as good as you will get on Inter here.
I can’t claim to have superior knowledge of the Turkish League but I do know that the Turkish League is physically competitive & a real battle from week to week so while Trabzonspor clearly cannot match Inter Milan for quality of players, they will certainly set out to compete for everything & Inter Milan will have to be professional & committed here to make sure their superior quality comes through in the end & indeed a good, solid win for Inter Milan looks the sensible call in this one.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: INTER MILAN to win – Correct Score options: Inter Milan 2-0/3-0
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Sneijder/Milito/Cambiasso

LILLE vs CSKA MOSCOW:- The bookmakers have top French side Lille as general even money shots to take this & there is no doubting the quality they now have within their squad but CSKA Moscow are a class side in their own right with great experience at this level and I personally expect this match to be a lot closer than the bookies odds suggest.
Lille at even money compared to CSKA Moscow at 11/4 doesn’t seem balanced or right to me & most definitely the 11/4 about CSKA MOSCOW looks good value for those punters looking for a win bet in this match but in saying that I don’t think it is as tempting an option as the draw is in this one.
I expect this to be a really good, competitive game of organised, passing football with Lille & CSKA Moscow both committed to playing that way &  given the high level of quality on both sides it really is too close a game to call definitively either way & on balance an entertaining scoring draw looks the most tempting bet here.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: DRAW – Correct Score options: 1-1/2-2
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Hazard/Love/Gonzalez

BASEL vs OTELUL GALATI:- I’m not going to spend to0 long on this match & write that many words because it’s a relatively low profile Champions League match featuring two teams who are highly unlikely to feature too long in this competition.
There is no question Basel have the greater experience at this level with Romanian side Otelul Galati making their debut in this competition & to be honest I know very little about them & I doubt too many others do either so were taking a trip into the unknown & that’s not the best scenario when considering a bet.
Relatively unknown teams making their debuts in this competition have been underestimated in the past & that might well happen again with Otelul Galati this year but for the purpose of this match I’m going with Basel to win this by making the most of home advantage & indeed the most of their proven  experience at the highest level.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result:  BASEL to win – Correct Score options: BASEL to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Fred/Streller/Zoua

BENFICA vs MANCHESTER UNITED:- There are not many more famous fixtures in european football that Benfica vs Manchester United & all the shared history between the two great clubs really does had an extra level of prestige to what should be an excellent game of fotball.
Benfica on their own ground is never an easy proposition for any side in european football & Sir Alex Ferguson will know that the Benfica fans will be out it force to inspire their team on & generate a really intense atmosphere that will make Benfica dangerous & especially their key striker Cardozo but on the flip side I don’t believe there is any team who will want to face Manchester United given the incredible form they are in right now.
Rooney, Hernandez, Nani, & Young is a front four combination of sheer speed, technique & agility that when in full flow as they are right now can frighten & indeed destroy any defence & assuming Sir Alex Ferguson keeps faith with the team that has been scoring for fun then it’s hard to look beyond Manchester United taking this even though Benfica will make it a test for them.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: MANCHESTER UNITED win – Correct Score options: Manchester United 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Hernandez/Rooney/Nani

AJAX vs LYON:-  Neither of these two big european names & former great sides are as good as they once were but no doubting their pedigree or the calibre within the squads & no doubting that this should be an entertaining game that will hopefully provide a few goals to enjoy along the way.
The footballing philosophy of both Ajax & Lyon is to play positive, passing & attacking football which should produce an open game that can go either way on the night but I can’t split them this time around & given the fact the draw is the biggest priced result of the 3 then it’s the draw that appeals as the value bet & hopefully they can both gain an equal share of a good, open game packed with goals.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: DRAW  – Correct Score options: 1-1/2-2
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Hamadoui/Sulejmani/Gomis

DINANO ZAGREB vs REAL MADRID:- Given the strength & quality in the Champions League you will not very often get a team to be 2/7 to win away but on what we know then even that price looks a touch of value given the gulf in class between Dinamo Zabreb & Jose Mourinho’s multi-million Real Madrid stars.
I can’t go crazy about taking 2/7 in any match let alone about an away side in the Champions League but anything other than a comfortable Real Madrid win would constitute as a major shock & it just doesn’t seem feasible that Real Madrid will not start with a win to get their search for Champions League glory off to a flyer & Real Madrid to win this well has to be the way to go here.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: REAL MADRID to win – Correct Score options: Real Madrid 3-0/3-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Ronaldo/Benzea/Di Maria

Well those are my own independent views for the midweek action in the Champions League & hopefully you find them interesting & informative in some way.

The idea behind the betting recommendations is to cover the main football betting markets hopefully they help guide you towards successful punts on what should prove to be another truly fascinating & dramatic set of Champions League matches.

Remember to check the latest team news before you bet & also to shop around for the best odds & best terms available and good luck with whatever bets you have.

UEFA Champions League Final Preview – Manchester United vs Barcelona – (Saturday 7.45pm)

After a tremendously exciting, dramatic & action packed journey which saw the Champions League start way back in June 2010, the big moment of truth has arrived with two of european football’s super-heavyweight contenders, Manchester United & Barcelona set to do battle to win the Champions League & claim the greatest prize available in club football.

Wembley Stadium is a a magnificent stage for this year’s Champions League Final and now it rests between the giants of Manchester United & Barcelona to see which team can best hold their nerve on this momentus occasions & produce the necessary quality, team spirit & desire to claim the prize that every team in europe dreams of winning, no matter their previous history or success, the Champions League is the ultimate prize.

For UEFA & indeed the entire footballing world this is a dream final with Manchester United & Barcelona unquestionably the biggest names in club football today & certainly the best two teams seen anywhere in europe, maybe the world, this season & everything is in place for this repeat of the 2009 Final to possibly be a truly great, classic final that will be remembered for years to  come.

Sir Alex Ferguson of Manchester United & Pep Guardiola of Barcelona both bring their high quality squads into this showpiece event knowing they have the necessary talent & qualities within their squads to achieve their goals & win the Champions League but equally they both know & have massive respect for each others squads facing the reality that this is the biggest test either side could face & so the deciding factor could well be which side handles that test the best on the night.

The magnitude & intensity of this clash, the incredible mix of experience, quality & sheer talent that both Manchester United & Barcelona bring to this match is remarkable & the vast capabilities of both managers makes this Final an incredibly tough one to call & indeed one that could well go either way with the only certainty being the quality on offer, both Manchester United & Barcelona have won this great competitions 3 times before but who will make it 4 this time around?

I have had a good look at the likely set ups of both teams, their strengths & weaknesses, the likely tactical approaches of both sides & indeed the statistical records of both Manchester United & Barcelona in this years competition & based on all of that here are my own honest thoughts on the match & the betting recommendations that I feel offer value & worth consideration:

Key Statistics for Manchester United & Barcelona in this season’s Champions League:

Group Stage Records:

Manchester United:- played 6, 4 wins & 2 draws, 7 goals scored & 1 goal conceded

Barcelona:- played 6, 4 wins & 2 draws, 14 goals scored & 3 goals conceded

Knock-out phase records:

Manchester United:- played 6, 5 wins & 1 draw, 11 goals scored & 3 goals conceded

Barcelona:- played 6, 4 wins, 1 draw & 1 defeat, 13 goals scored & 5 goals conceded
Overall Records:

Manchester United:- played 12, 9 wins & 3 draws, 18 goals scored & 4 goals conceded – Unbeaten, 8 clean sheets in 12 matches & no away goals conceded

Barcelona:- played 12, 8 wins, 3 draws & 1 defeat, 27 goals scored & 8 goals conceded, 1 defeat & only 5 clean sheets in 12 matches

Manchester United vs Barcelona – (Saturday 7.45pm)

Manchester United vs Barcelona reads like a dream final on paper & really does have every single ingredient required to turn that dream into reality & produce what could be a sensational final that will be remembered for years but calling which way it will go is incredibly tough.

Manchester United 3 Champions League titles, Barcelona 3 Champions League titles, Sir Alex Ferguson, vast experience, unrivalled & unprecedented domestic success & 2 Champions League successes on his CV against Pep Guardiola’s great success in this competition as both player & manager and both Ferguson & Guardiola have incredible tactical awareness to go with it so no split to be found there either.

In terms of playing talent then Manchester United & Barcelona look very well matched & both have great quality in abundance and again very little, if anything to choose between either side on that score either.

Barcelona have the incredible, unique talent that is Lionel Messi & can back him up with the likes of David Villa, Xavi, Iniesta, Busquets & Pedro and those 6 players combined are a quite formidable unit when on form & virtually unstoppable if they are allowed to play together the way they want.

How that unit of 6 sublime talents combine is vital for Barcelona but equally so is how Barcelona’s defenders & defensive minded midfielders combine as well and for the likes of Messi, Villa, Iniesta & Xavi to give their best, the defensive unit of Barcelona will have to be at their focused best as well.

As shown above, the statistics for Barcelona highlight their strengths & potential weaknesses with 27 goals scored in the 12 games they have played highlighting their attacking prowess but only 5 clean sheets from 12 highlights that Barcelona can be attacked & do concede goals.

Manchester United come into this Champions League final scenario for the third time in four seasons highlighting they have the necessary quality, experience & character to compete & Sir Alex Ferguson side go into every game believing they can win & this will be no different, despite the great respect they have for Barcelona.

Wayne Rooney, Javier Hernandez, Antonio Valencia, Ryan Giggs & Ji Sung Park might not be regarded as potent or flair filled attacking combination as that Barcelona can provide but what they do offer that Barcelona don’t is more direct power, pace, energy & belief and that makes them just as dangerous a unit to try & contain.

Defensively Manchester United have been supremely strong in the Champions League this year achieving a fantastic 8 clean sheets, no away goals conceded & only 4 goals conceded in the tournament so far & without doubt the performances of Edwin Van Der Sar, Nemanja Vidic, Rio Ferdinand & Patrice Evra as the bedrock of Manchester United’s defensive unit will play a major part in this match.

Will Barcelona’s potentially fragile defensive unit hold up against Manchester United’s attacking unit & give their incredible attacking unit the platform to cut through Manchester United, will Manchester United’s formidable defensive unit be able to cope with the fluidity, control & technical brilliance of Barcelona’ attacking unit, those are key questions to be answered & indeed the key factor that will determine which way this final goes.

There is no doubt that the absolute key factor will be which side scores the first goal as whoever does that will have control of the game & both Manchester United & Barcelona are experts at controlling games when in front but in saying that both teams have the proven talent & experience to come back and it all just adds to making this a really tough call to make & making it look like a coin flip every time I look at it.

Barcelona & Manchester United have their key strengths & potential weaknesses, Sir Alex Ferguson & Pep Guardiola are two of the most talented & tactically aware managers around, both teams will be confident but equally have massive respect for each other & so an entertaining scoring draw does offer great appeal & it might just lead to another dramatic penalty shoot-out but I just have a feeling that it will be won in 90 minutes & that basis the odds become the key factor.

The bookmakers have Barcelona as strong 1/2 favourites to lift the trophy & a general even money to win in 90 minutes while Man United at 6/4 to win it outright & 11/4 to win in 90 minutes, those odds are understandable given Barcelona have been favourites all along but in saying that there I don’t believe that there should be such a variance in the prices for Barcelona & Manchester United win and therefore Manchester United look solid value to me.

With this being a one off event between two well matched sides & two great managers I cannot see what makes Barcelona Even money & Manchester United 11/4 & so while this game is likely to be an intensely competitive, high quality but equally tight affair at times then I have to go with my instincts to take the betting value & a Manchester United win in 90 minutes looks a great value bet to me but equally I have to finish by saying the safest bet could be to just sit back & enjoy what should be a great occasion & match.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: Manchester United to win
Correct Score options: Manchester United to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Rooney/Hernandez/Park
Scorecast options: Rooney/Hernandez/Park score 1st & Manchester United win 2-0/2-1
Double Result: DRAW H/T & MAN UNITED F/T

Well those are my views on the Champions League & hopefully you find them interesting, useful & informative and that they help guide you towards successful punts on what should prove to be a truly great occasions & Champions League final to remember.

Remember to check the latest team news before you bet & also to shop around for the best odds & best terms available and good luck with whatever bets you have.

Champions League & Europa League Semi Final 1st leg Preview

The Champions League & Europa League are the two major club competitions in domestic european football & this week sees the staging of huge semi-final 1st leg matches in both of those competitions & indeed 4 matches that should offer great quality, enjoyment & terrific drama.

We have had a good look at all of these huge matches & here are own views & value betting recommendations we feel are worth consideration if you are considering having a bet but as always please ensure you check the latest team news before placing your bets.

Schalke vs Manchester United – (Tuesday 7.45pm)

Manchester United’s presece in the Semi Final is not a surprise & indeed Sir Alex Ferguson’s team were one of the favourites for the competition before a ball was kicked but the fact they line up here against Schalke has to be regarded as a shock but that is not to say Schalke don’t deserve their place because they most definitely do.

Schalke have been incredibly impressive this season & their destruction of Inter Milan in their last round of matches, with an aggregate score of 7-3 after a stunning 5-2 win in the San Siro & on that result alone Schalke command huge respect & must not be underestimated by anybody in the football world & Sir Alex Ferguson will not do no that.

Schalke have to be applauded for their positive, attacking approach to their Champions League campaign & Manchester United will certainly have to be at their best defensively to thwart the attacking threat of Schalke with the incredible Raul the chief goal threat along with the creative brilliance of Farfan giving real quality to what is a well organised Schalke team that has a fantastic team spirit & will to win.

Manchester United have incredible proven experience at this level & the fact that this is another Champions League Semi Final will not phase anybody at Manchester United & instead it is more likely to inspire another well controlled, organised & quality packed performance with the knowledge & belief it will take a very, very good performance to stop them getting the result they want.

Manchester United showed that they have no fear about going away in the Champions League & looking to be positive & score goals by producing a fantastic performance to win 1-0 at Chelsea & then back that up with another fantastic winning performance at home and Sir Alex Ferguson will surely demand his players produce the same during this tie.

Schalke deserve great respect as they at home & are very dangerous opponents for any side who make mistakes or organises themselves properly but at the same time Manchester United have far more experience at this level, know exactly what it takes to get the result they need & Sir Alex Ferguson’s side look worth a bet to take a lead into the 2nd leg.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: Manchester United to win
Correct Score options: Manchester United to win 2-0/2-1
Players to score 1st/anytime: Rooney/Nani/Hernandez

Real Madrid vs Barcelona – (Wednesday 7.45pm)

This is the big one, no disrespect to either Manchester United or Schalke but this greatly anticipated tie between the two giants of spanish & european football is the game the whole footballing world have been looking forward to & indeed the only thing bigger than a Real Madrid vs Barcelona Champions League Semi Final would be the final itself.

Barcelona are widely & rightly viewed as probably the greatest club side, indeed football side to ever play the game, this current Barcelona side managed by Pepp Guadiola regularly produces the best, most fluent & most effective winning football ever seen on a football field & most of the football world expect Barcelona to again win the Champions League with the genius that is Lionel Messi the inspiration behind it all.

Messi, Villa, Xavi, Iniesta are 4 of the greatest players in the world right now & will certainly be regarded as 4 of the best players to ever play the game and it is those 4 that could well define how this tie goes because if they are allowed to control the game the way they want with their quality then it will go Barcelona’s way but if Real Madrid can control those 4 then they definitely have a chance of upsetting the odds.

Of course the joker in the pack, admittedly one of the most successful & talented jokers ever, Jose Mourinho is the key figure in this tie because his vast experience, knowledge & proven record of winning the Champions League makes him a very dangerous opposition manager for Barcelona & probably one of only 2 or 3 managers who could bring organise a team to get the better of Barcelona.

In terms of player quality then both Real Madrid & Barcelona are very closely matched  & between have the best players in the world & of course the intensity that comes with Real Madrid & Barcelona being fierce rivals will ensure there will be an incredible pressure & atmosphere surrounding this match & ultimately it will come down to which of the two sides handles that intensity & pressure the best.

This 1st leg could well be the key to the tie as a whole because if Barcelona win here then they will be strongly fancied to repeat the job at home in the 2nd leg & Real Madrid will face mission near impossible but if Real Madrid can win this 1st leg & take a lead to defend at the Nou Camp then they will have a very good chance of progressing to the Final.

Absolutely everything is at stake in this in this match & it really can go either way given the quality on show for both sides, Real Madrid come into this tie having just beaten Barcelona to win the Spanish Cup & that might just given Real Madrid the edge in this one so we are taking Jose Mourinho to inspire another Real Madrid to a famous & important victory & at least ensure the tie goes to the 2nd leg with everything to play for.
Betting Recommendations:
Outright Match Result: Real Madrid to win
Correct Score options: Real Madrid to win 2-0/2-1
First Goalscorer each way/Players to score anytime: Ronaldo/Adebayor/Di Maria

Europa League Semi Final 1st leg Predictions:

BENFICA to beat Braga 2-0/2-1
FC PORTO to beat Villareal 2-0/2-1

Midweek Football Preview

The action comes thick & fast in the football world at this time of the year and this week is no different with another midweek packed full of top football from all the different competitions & leagues taking place.

Right through from the highest level football of the Champions League, Europa League, Championship right through to matches in League 2, we have had a good look at the midweek fixture lists & here are our views on the matches taking place:

Champions League Quarter Final 2nd Leg Predictions:

Manchester United vs Chelsea – (Tuesday 7.45pm)

The starting point ahead of gigantic clash is that we must all hope that this 2nd leg clash between Manchester United & Chelsea is anywhere near as good as the first leg was because that was an absolute cracker that had everything.

The tempo to the match, the attacking intent of both sides, the great quality play & indeed the immense effort of all the players involved to fight for the best result was a pleasure to watch & it really was a proper Champions League battle, a real test of two very strong teams going head to head.

The fact Manchester United bring a 1-0 advantage into this game with that vital away goal already under their belt obviously makes Manchester United strong favourites to quality through but we must all remember & especially the Manchester United players must remember that this tie is not over & they will have to play as well again if they are to go through.

There can be no denying the strength & power of Manchester United at Old Trafford, unbeaten at home all season & Sir Alex Ferguson’s side have hit a level of form that makes Manchester United hard to beat no matter who they are playing & of course Chelsea have to at least match Manchester United’s result to have any chance here.

The 1-0 scoreline is a dangerous scoreline because if Chelsea open the scoring in this match & particularly if it is early, they then know that scoring another goal would give them a huge chance to progress & would switch the pressure back to Manchester United but if Manchester United score 1st & go 2-0 up in the tie, then Chelsea instantly know they need to score at least 2 goals to go through.

Chelsea have to be positive in this match & I certainly expect them to be so given the quality they have they certainly have a chance to do what they need to  & cannot be ruled out but Manchester United are seriously tough to beat at Old Trafford & only need a draw to progress, all of which makes this a tough game to call.

Given how intensely competitive & pressurised this game will be it was really tempting to go for a scoring draw & that cannot be ruled out but on balance Manchester United’s strength at home combined with the excellent recent form makes them appeal as the team to be on here & a Manchester United win looks the bet in this one.
Betting Recommendations:
Manchester United to win 2-0/2-1
Rooney/Nani/Hernandez score 1st & Manchester United win 2-0/2-1

Shaktar Donetsk vs Barcelona - (Tuesday 7.45pm)

This tie had the potential to be a tough & tricky one for Barcelona & especially if they did not get the job done in the first leg at home but last weeks stunning 5-1 win has put this tie to bed & makes this a match that really does not matter to them, with Shaktar Donetsk’s pride the only real factor at stake here.

Another massive potential factor for this game is the fact Barcelona have to travel to arch rivals Real Madrid on saturday night for the title deciding clash & so Josep Guardiola is highly likely to rest the likes of Villa, Messi, Xavi, Iniesta & a several other key members here and if that happens then Shaktar Donetsk really will have a great chance to at least go out with pride.

Shakhtar Donetsk have an amazing record at home in european competititions & will certainly want to ensure that record stays intact here so while whoever plays for Barcelona will have great quality & still make them dangerous, Barcelona’s mental focus will not be fully on this match & that makes Shaktar Donetsk a bet to get another home european win here.
Betting Recommendations:
Shakhtar Donetsk to win 2-0/2-1
Costa/Adriano/Jadson score 1st or anytime

Tottenham vs Real Madrid – (Wednesday 7.45pm)

Real Madrid bring a 4-0 advantage into this 2nd leg & in all honesty the tie is over so all that remains here for Tottenham is playing for pride & also how seriously Real Madrid take this match with Barcelona to come on saturday.

Harry Redknapp has stated his pride of his Tottenham players for the way they have performed in the Champions League this season & without doubt he will want his players to respond to the disappointment of losing 4-0 in Madrid & certainly expect his players to go all out for a home win that restore the pride that was badly damaged last week.

There is no question that Tottenham will attack here & go for the goals that will help to give them the win to at least go out on a high so the only question that remains is how seriously will Real Madrid take this game that means nothing to them.

Jose Mourinho prides himself on success in the Champions League & of course had a successful time in England so will want to impress to a degree but Jose Mourinho also knows that saturday’s game against Barcelona in the league is the biggest game for Real Madrid right now & surely he will want to keep the key players back for that one.

The Real Madrid squad is absolutely bang full of top class talents so there can be no talk of Real Madrid playing a weakened side but surely Mourinho will rest the key players which will reduce the threat they carry while the other key factor here has to be what state of mind will the Real Madrid players be in & will the have the required motivation to get the result here.

Given all the facts & circumstances then it does point towards the Tottenham players having a far great motivation for the win & their strength at home could well be the deciding factor here with the fans behind them & so a Tottenham home win looks the bet here.
Betting Recommendations:
Tottenham to win 2-0/2-1
Defoe/Van der Vaart/Lennon score 1st or anytime

Schalke vs Inter Milan – (Wednesday 7.45pm)

I would not have gone for Schalke to win the first leg 5-2 even if I had been given a 100 free bets on the match & to be honest I am still trying to work out how that scoreline happened.

That first leg clash between Inter Milan & Schalke was incredible, end to end action, goals galore, red card, erratic defending, one of the very best goals you will ever see & overall just a sensational match that Schalke totally deserved to win & surely they have done more than enough to get to the Semi Finals.

Inter Milan have got to win this match at least 4-0 to progress & while they have the quality within the squad who can produce results like that at their very best, Inter Milan simply are not playing at their very best & the defensive failings highlighted by Schalke last week could well be exposed again here.

Schalke do know that they are all but in the Semi Finals already so the key for them here will be their mental approach to the game but they have approached every single Champions League game so far with the belief they will score goals & win matchs so we expect the same here while Inter Milan have to look to attack & score goals so this should be another belting match to watch.

It definitely is a match that can go either way & there should be a few goals so on balance an open, attacking scoring draw looks the value call here.
Betting Recommendations:
Schalke vs Inter Milan Draw 2-2/3-3
Farfan/Milito/Sneijder score 1st or anytime

Premier League Predictions:

MANCHESTER CITY to beat Liverpool 2-0/2-1
Tevez/Silva/Balotelli score 1st or anytime

Championship Predictions:

QPR to beat Barnsley 2-0/2-1
LEEDS to beat Derby 2-1/3-1
DONCASTER ROVERS to beat Preston 1-0/2-0
IPSWICH to beat Middlesbrough 2-0/2-1
LEICESTER CITY to beat Crystal Palace 2-1/3-1
MILLWALL to beat Bristol City 2-0/2-1
NOTTINGHAM FOREST vs BURNLEY DRAW 1-1/2-2
PORTSMOUTH to beat Coventry City 2-0/2-1
READING to beat Scunthorpe 2-1/3-1
CARDIFF CITY to beat Sheffield United 2-1/3-1
SWANSEA to beat Hull City 2-0/2-1
NORWICH CITY to beat Watford 2-0/2-1

Leauge 1 Predictions:

League 2 Predictions:

BURY to beat Burton 2-0/2-1

Europa League Quarter Final 1st leg Predictions:

SPARTAK MOSCOW vs PORTO DRAW 1-1/2-2
BRAGA vs DYNAMO KIEV Draw 1-1/2-2
FC TWENTE vs VILLAREAL DRAW 1-1/2-2
PSV vs BENFICA DRAW 1-1/2-2

Well those are our views for the midweek matches & hopefully you find them interesting & informative and that they help guide you towards successful punts on what should prove to be a truly fascinating set of midweek matches in all the different competitions.

Remember to check the latest team news before you bet & also to shop around for the best odds & best terms available and good luck with whatever bets you have.