Monthly Archives: May 2019

UEFA Champions League Final

Europe’s biggest soccer game of the year is on tap for Saturday in Madrid. Of course, it’ll be played between two English teams, as Tottenham Hotspur faces Liverpool. The line is tight with Liverpool at -116 to win compared to Tottenham at +305.

A1

Frankly, both teams are a little lucky to be here. Tottenham had just one point midway through the group stage, pulling a rabbit out of their hat just to advance. Spurs then needed great fortune late in both the quarterfinals and semi-finals to stay alive. Nevertheless, they have made it to the final and will be confident that they can overcome any obstacle, even if they fall behind early.

Liverpool was also a little sluggish early in the competition and needed a favorable result on the last day of the group stage to advance to the knockout stage. The Reds then erased a 3-0 deficit in the second leg of the semi-final against Barcelona, pulling off one of the greatest comebacks in Champions League history to reach the final. After coming up second in the Premier League season, the Reds may look at this season as a disappointment if it ends without collecting a trophy

Getting the Band Back Together

The Champions League final will likely mean the Liverpool attacking trio of Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane, and Robert Firmino will be back together. Firmino missed the end of the Premier League season due to an injury, and both he and Salah missed the second leg of the semi-finals against Barcelona. However, Salah returned in time for the Premier League finale and Firmino looks as if he’ll return this weekend as well.

Together, those three make up arguably the most dynamic attack in the world. Mane and Salah made up two-thirds of the players who shared the Premier League Golden Boot this season. On his day, Firmino can be just as dangerous as a goal scorer. Tottenham has a strong defense and a world-class goalie in Hugo Lloris who can look unbeatable on his best day. However, when the trio of Salah, Mane, and Firmino is clicking, it can be impossible to prevent them from putting the ball in the back of the net.

Is He Back?

For Spurs, much of the lead up to Saturday’s game has revolved around the health of striker Harry Kane. He missed the end of the Premier League season and the last three Champions League matches due to injury. It seems likely that Kane will be able to return to face Liverpool, although whether he starts or not and how many minutes he can play remain to be seen. But his mere presence should give Tottenham a lift.

Of course, putting Kane back in the starting lineup could be risky. Lucas Moura was the hero with a hat trick in the second leg of the semi-finals while Son Heung-min is easily the team’s best goalscorer outside of Kane. Midfielders Christian Eriksen and Dele Alli are also automatic starters. However, one of the four might need to be dropped to fit Kane into the starting lineup. That group was good enough to get Tottenham to this point and it could be risky to change that now The last time Kane returned from injury, Spurs went on a losing streak. They may be better off bringing him off the bench if needed late in the game.

The Safe Bet

Even if Kane returns, Liverpool has a more dynamic attacking unit, not to mention a deeper and more reliable midfield. They also had the second-best defensive record in the Premier League this season, so they can win a 1-0 game if they have to. After the season they’ve had, the Reds deserve to win a trophy and it would be unjust if they didn’t get one. When you go to wager on this; make sure you check out one of our favorite pay per head books at www.A1PPH.com. Bet on Liverpool to win the Champions League final.

2019 Wimbledon Championship Preview and Odds

Author: Jonathan Turner

The current focus of the tennis world is transfixed on Paris for the French Open, but we are going to look ahead to the season’s third grand slam at Wimbledon. Here is a look at the leading contenders for the title.

Novak Djokovic – 13/8

Heading into the 2018 Wimbledon Championships, Novak Djokovic was starting to rediscover his form after an underwhelming first half of the season that saw the Serb struggle after elbow surgery. However, even after reaching the Queen’s final, few expected Djokovic to go on and win his 13th major.

However, the All England Club proved to be the venue of Djokovic’s remarkable revival and he has since returned to world No 1 and clinched the next two grand slam titles at the US Open and Australian Open.

Another curious dip followed his success in Melbourne, but the 32-year-old is back close to his best at the back end of the clay court swing, having won the Madrid Open.

Expect Djokovic to again peak at Wimbledon where he is the defending champion and four-time winner. The Serbian’s unrivalled return game means he can nullify the biggest servers on the fastest surfaces, while his impeccable defense and ground stoke variation make him arguably the toughest player to beat when on form.

His odds could shorten further should he win the French Open, so an early wager on Djokovic to win Wimbledon would be advised if you feel he is destined for the title.

Roger Federer – 10/3

Roger Federer may be at an advanced stage in his career, but the 37-year-old Swiss has still been installed as the second favorite to win Wimbledon this year.

The current odds are undoubtedly partially based on Federer’s record haul of eight Wimbledon titles and no player is better suited to success on grass. He has the strongest serve of the leading contenders and the best net game – vital tools to succeed at the All England Club.

While Federer stumbled at the quarter-final stage last year, he reached two finals and a semi-final in the three previous years. Whether his return to clay court tennis this year proves a hindrance – Federer opted to skip that section of the season the past two years to prepare for Wimbledon – will only be determined in the coming weeks.

But with 1/2 each way odds – ie to reach the final – Federer remains an attractive option to appear in the title match, even if he does not clinch title No 9.

Rafael Nadal – 11/2

The greatest clay court player in history is no slouch at Wimbledon, either. As always, Rafael Nadal has been installed as the clear favorite for the French Open, but he is also a two-time champion at Wimbledon.

The Spaniard reached last year’s semi-final – losing an epic battle to Djokovic – but his record since making the 2011 final was rather ordinary, going only as far as the fourth round.

Should, as expected, Nadal win, or at least reach the latter stages, of the French Open, his chances of winning Wimbledon are sure to decrease given the quick turnaround.

The world No 2’s perpetual injury issues and creaking body could also catch up with him by the time Wimbledon comes around. Remember, before the clay court swing Nadal missed weeks of the season with a knee injury.

While a player of Nadal’s class and experience can never be totally discounted, his chances of winning his third Wimbledon title appear remote.

Other contenders

After the leading three, there is a bit of a drop off in terms of the next players in line who could win Wimbledon this year, but here is a selection who might be worth considering each-way to reach the final, if you fancy betting tennis.

Marin Cilic – 11/1

The 2017 finalist, Marin Cilic has a game ready-made for the grass: a big serve, booming groundstrokes and great movement for a taller player. Talent and ability is never the problem for the Croatian, but dips in concentration and intensity have proved costly.

Juan Martin del Potro – 16/1

What could have been if debilitating wrist injuries hadn’t threatened to end his career. Juan Martin del Potro has had to remodel his game, but he remains a serious threat on any surface. His powerful serve and booming forehand can take him far at Wimbledon, but it will all depend on his fitness.

Milos Raonic – 16/1

Another former finalist, Milos Raonic owns arguably the best serve in tennis. He has worked tirelessly on improving the other parts of his game, including his net play, but injuries are becoming worryingly common. The Canadian has missed the French Open, so his hopes of contending at Wimbledon this year will hinge on his recovery.

Stefanos Tsitsipas – 20/1

Stefano Tsitsipas has emerged as the leading light of the next generation and his best effort at a grand slam was a fourth round at Wimbledon last year before he reached the semi-finals of the Australian Open in January. Possesses bags of talent and the weapons to excel on grass, but a title tilt might be a few years too early.

Nick Kyrgios – 25/1

Granted, backing Nick Kyrgios could well be regarded as a waste of time, but there is always the sense that if the controversial Australian applies himself, he could be a real threat at Wimbledon. He owns a 2-0 record against Djokovic and 3-3 with Nadal, so he knows how to topple the big guns when focused and firing. He will also be rested after skipping the French Open with illness. It is all down to Kyrgios to show up.

Arsenal vs Valencia/Eintracht Frankfurt vs Chelsea

Both spots in the Europa League finals are up for grabs in the second leg of the semi-finals on Thursday. In one matchup, Arsenal of England will take on Valencia of Spain. In the other game, English club Chelsea will take on Eintracht Frankfurt of Germany. Let’s take a closer look at both games.

RealBookies

Arsenal vs Valencia

After Arsenal took the first leg 3-1, the Gunners are +280 to win the second leg on the road. Meanwhile, a desperate Valencia team is -124 to get a win, although it will take at least a two-goal win to advance. Finally, a draw is set at +276, a result that would see Arsenal advance to the finals.

Oddly enough, Europa League games have been Arsenal’s only positive results lately. The Gunners have three losses and one draw in their last four Premier League games. That being said, Arsenal was the better side for long stretches of the first leg. But there were plenty of nervy moments, especially after they fell behind 1-0. The Gunners have also conceded 11 goals over their last five games, so a clean sheet on the road doesn’t seem likely.

Meanwhile, Valencia is coming off a 6-goal effort in La Liga over the weekend. The Spanish side lacks one standout goal scorer, but they have plenty of capable attacking players. Against an Arsenal team that’s looked shaky at the back recently, Valencia is bound to score some goals, even if the Gunners are able to hit them back. Bet on Valencia to win the second leg at home, but look for Arsenal to advance.

Eintracht Frankfurt vs Chelsea

After a 1-1 draw in the first leg, there is all to play for between these teams on Thursday. However, Chelsea is heavily favored at -301 as the home side in the second leg. Eintracht Frankfurt has a money line of +683 while a draw is set at +387.

Not only is Frankfurt a heavy underdog against Chelsea, but the German side is struggling for confidence will be lacking confidence following a 6-1 loss to Bayer Leverkusen over the weekend. It was an ugly game that saw Eintracht concede 82% possession to their German rivals. They are now in serious jeopardy of missing out on a top-4 spot in the Bundesliga, which could distract them from the semi-final with Chelsea.

Perhaps more importantly, only earning 18% possession against Leverkusen isn’t a good omen ahead of a game against a possession-based side like Chelsea. The London club controlled 67% of the possession in the first leg despite only coming away with one away goal. With that away goal in their back pocket and the confidence of a 3-0 home win over the weekend, Chelsea is poised to dictate the second leg. Also, with the Blues assuring themselves of a top-4 spot in the Premier League, Chelsea will be more likely to put their best lineup on the field against Frankfurt, specifically Eden Hazard, who came off the bench in the first leg. Bet on Chelsea to win the second leg with ease and advance to the final. If you are looking for a great pay-per-head bookmaker, check out RealBookies and get your bets in for both these matches.

Learn More about Pay Per Head:
1. What is price per head
2. How To Become A Bookie
3. RealBookie Features
4. PPH Online Sports Betting Software – What you need to know
5. The Wrong Pay Per Head Could Cost You Your Business
6. Mistakes To Avoid As A Bookie
7. How Realbookies Can Help You Set Up A White Label SportsBook

2019 NASCAR Cup Series Standings Top Five

The top racing series in Stock car auto racing since its inauguration in 1949. It has continued to grow and even more so following the takeover in sponsorship of Monster Energy in 2017. The most prestigious race in the series is the Daytona 500, and has a U.S televised viewing figure of around 9.17 million, which is an indication of how popular the sport has become. The season is now in full swing as current leader Kyle Busch is also the NASCAR betting online favourite, and can be supported at 5/2 in the outright markets. Here we cover the top five in the standings at present.

1) KYLE BUSCH

The 34 year old finished fourth in 2018, so is expecting a more positive finish this season, as he looks to emulate his 2015 victory. The American has made a flying start to the current campaign that has seen him pick up 460 points from his 11 starts, with three wins, six top five finishes and eleven top ten finishes. This consistency sees him topping the table for the Toyota racing team.

2) JOEY LOGANO

Sitting in number two at present is 28 year old American, Joey Logano. He drives the Ford Mustang GT for Team Penske, and is another who has made a flying start. He has picked up 455 points from his 11 starts, with one win, six top five finishes and eight top ten finishes. He finished 1st last season, so will be hopeful of defending his title this season. He can be supported at 6/1 for the title.

3) KEVIN HARVICK

The 43 year old American currently sits third following his impressive start to the season. He drives a Ford Mustang for Stewart-Haas Racing and will be hoping to emulate his victory from back in 2014. He has picked up 397 points from his 11 starts but has yet to win this season. However, he has five top five finishes, and eight top ten finishes, with two DNFs. He is 6/1 to go and land the title.

4) DENNY HAMLIN

38 year old American Denny Hamlin currently sits at number four. He drives the Toyota Supra for JGR, and was the winner of the 2019 Daytona 500. This followed on from his victory in the race in 2016. He can be supported at 14/1 as he looks to improve on his best finish of 2nd back in 2010. He has picked up 383 points from his 11 starts, that includes two wins, six top five finishes and eight top ten finishes.

5) MARTIN TRUEX, JR

Just making the top five is 38 year old American Martin Truex Jr. He drives the Toyota Camry for Joe Gibbs racing, and can be supported at 5/1 for the title. He is looking to emulate his victory from in 2017, and has made a positive start to the season. Martin has picked up 378 points from his 11 starts, with two wins, four top five finishes, and seven top ten finishes.

The rise of English football…AGAIN

English football is again going through a fruitful period as they continue to challenge in the latter stages of each European competition. Many punters have been supporting their sides using the Dafabet coupon code, but not many could of envisaged the comeback success of Liverpool in the Champions league.

They were 3-0 down following a starring performance from Lionel Messi at the Nou Camp, as Barcelona look to had sealed yet another Champions league final. However, Anfield is known for a memorable European night, and the return leg is yet another. Without star players Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino it appeared to be an impossible task for Liverpool. However, they produced one of the greatest comebacks in winning 4-0 to send favourites Barcelona out of the competition. This included braces from both Divock Origi and Georginio Wijnaldum.

This means Liverpool head into the final in Madrid in what is their second in succession. Could it be an all-England final? Tottenham now look to follow in their footsteps and turn a 1-0 deficit against Ajax, as they travel to the Amsterdam Arena. This is a huge task for Spurs, as Ajax have been one of the stars of the competition this season, that includes the comprehensive success over defending champions Real Madrid. Tottenham will certainly be taking inspiration from Liverpool’s success, and can be supported at 9/4 to qualify and set up the blockbuster final.

It is a similar picture in the Europa league as the English sides look to hold on the aces. Could it again be an all-England final? First up is Chelsea, who are the outright favourites for the competition as they welcome Eintracht Frankfurt to Stamford Bridge. They are as short as 1/5 to progress through to the final following the 1-1 first leg result. Stamford Bridge has been a fortress for Chelsea in the competition and it will be a huge shock were they to fail to reach the final. Can Chelsea go on and land the title for the second time following their 2013 success?

Arsenal will then look to join them as they travel to Spain to face Valencia. They are again the short priced favourites at 2/7 to qualify, following the comprehensive 3-1 success at home in the first leg. Despite Valencia taking the lead, Arsenal really came to life and turned the game on its head, and really could have won by more on the night. It will now be a huge disappointment were they to fail to progress through to the final. Could they set up not only an all English final, but a blockbuster clash against London rivals Chelsea in the final?