Football Tips & Predictions – 1/03

The events to focus on this weekend will all take place on Sunday. First on your list should be the Clasico between Real Madrid (2.28) and Barcelona (2.95), a clash that will decide who will top the La Liga table at the end of the day. Next up should be the Italian Serie A top of the table clash between historic rivals Juventus (2.30) and Inter (3.25). There will also be many betting opportunities in the EFL Cup Final between Aston Villa (27.00) and Man City (1.16), with plenty more in the EPL match between Everton (2.60) and Man United (2.90). 

01.03.20 – Real Madrid vs Barcelona – La Liga

Market: Result + Both teams to score // Away Win + Yes (4.95)

Barcelona have won 3 of their last 4 visits to the Bernabeu, drawing the other match in which both teams scored. Considering the defensive frailties both sides have shown of late, and their respective UEFA Champions League games in midweek, it is hard to see this one end scoreless. A price worth gambling on. 

Market: Anytime goalscorer // Lionel Messi (2.30)

Lionel Messi scored 27 goals against Real Madrid as he thoroughly enjoys his trips to the Bernabeu in particular. The mercurial Argentine did not score in midweek but hit 4 past Eibar at the weekend. By his standards, he is due a goal. If you are really feeling confident, then back him to be the first goalscorer (5.25) at an outrageously good price. 

Market: Anytime goalscorer // Karim Benzema (2.35)

With 18 goals in 34 games this season the Frenchman is Real Madrid’s leading scorer. History shows he has a penchant of scoring in El Clasico and will be determined to help his team turn the tide in La Liga after failing to impress in the last few games. In need of a goal.

Market: Anytime goalscorer // Sergio Ramos (4.75)

Los Blancos’ captain was sent off in midweek and will be determined to make amends on Sunday. He thrives on pressure and has a history of scoring in crucial games, making El Clasico a perfect scenario for him to make a statement. He is also Real Madrid’s designated penalty taker and will not shirk away from the responsibility if the opportunity arises.

Market: Red Card // Yes (2.50)

Sergio Ramos will be on the pitch having received the 26th red card of his career on Wednesday night. There will also be Vidal, Busquets, Valverde, and Casemiro battling it out in midfield in a match that will most likely determine the outcome of La Liga. Not to mention the historical importance of the fixture. Tension will be sky high and thus this market is worth considering. 

01.03.20 – Juventus vs Inter – Serie A

Market: Match result // Inter (3.25)

Inter have lost their last big away match against Lazio, which now sees them within 6 points of league leaders and rivals on Sunday, Juventus. Losing here would automatically write them off the title chase whilst possibly putting their Champions League qualifying prospects at risk. A 6 pointer that Conte’s men just cannot miss. They have been working on this game for a week now, resting most of their starting 11 in Europa League while Juventus had to deal with a difficult away trip to Lyon, where they lost. An added bonus which makes the price of this market even more appealing.

Market: Anytime goalscorer // Cristiano Ronaldo (1.95)

Cristiano Ronaldo scored for the 11th consecutive Serie A match last weekend, equalling the famous Gabriel Batistuta. That means he has now repeated that feat in 3 different football leagues, as he shows no signs of aging even at 35 years old. Would you bet against him making it 12 and establishing a new record? I wouldn’t. 

Market: Anytime goalscorer // Lautaro Martinez (2.90)

With Lukaku’s statistically backed reputation of not scoring against the big sides, the onus will be on the Argentine to produce the goods for Conte. Lionel Messi is a big fan of his which has sparked rumors of a Barcelona interest for the summer as they continue to look for a Suarez replacement. Predestined. 

Market: Penalty // Yes (3.05)

Since the inclusion of VAR penalties have been much more common, and given the importance of this match coupled with the historical rivalry between the sides, the tension will be sky high at the Allianz stadium. In such games, this market is always worth a gamble. 

01.03.20 – Aston Villa vs Man City – EFL Cup Final

Market: Match Winner + Over Under 3.5 goals // Away + Under (2.15)

Given the starting low odd of a Man City (1.16) win during regular time, this market offers the opportunity of a much higher odd by combining a win for the Citizens while allowing for 3 goals (or less) to be scored. A likely scenario with a very good return prospect. 

Market: Anytime goalscorer // Sergio Aguero (1.51)

Pep Guardiola opted to go with Gabriel Jesus in midweek, trusting he would do a better defensive role than the Argentinian. Against Villa, there will be no such need defensively and against a low block there is nobody better around to rely on to provide a goal. An assurance in front of goal with Aston Villa one of his preferred victims. Practically a giveaway. 

Market: Anytime goalscorer // Raheem Sterling (1.92)

The Englishman started the clash at the Bernabeu on the bench as Guardiola was reluctant to use him given he just recovered from an injury. His cameo changed the match and tilted the tie in City’s favor. He will have the chance to run at Villa’s defense on Sunday and will be adamant to get back on the scoresheet. Motivated. 

01.03.20 – Everton vs Man United – EPL

Market: Match result // Man United (2.90)

The Red Devils have had their best days this season when playing away from home, as their counter-attacking exploits can hurt any team in the country. Everton have a shady defense to say the least, especially of the right side with Sidibe always surging forward. Exactly the area where Martial does his best work. Add Bruno Fernandes to the mix and the odd keeps getting more attractive by the minute. 

Market: Anytime goalscorer // D. Calvert-Lewin (2.64)

The forward has been in scintillating form since Carlo Ancelotti took over, taking his EPL tally for the season up to 12 goals against Arsenal. He is a menace in the air and especially dangerous from corners. Exactly the areas Man United have been susceptible to all season. 

Market: Anytime goalscorer // Anthony Martial (2.90)

The Frenchman has scored for 3 consecutive games now with an outrageous piece of skill against Watford the pick of the bunch. He has flourished since Bruno Fernandes joined as the Portuguese midfielder brought some much-needed creativity behind the forward line. On his day he can be lethal. Solskjaer is gambling on him, will you?