Weekend Tips & Predictions – 17/01-19/01
On Friday night the Bundesliga returns with a bang after the winter break with the clash between Schalke 04 (2.55) and B. Monchengladbach (2.65). On Saturday, all your attention should be diverted to Spain where newly crowned Spanish Supercopa Champions Real Madrid (1.61) host Sevilla (5.00). The big one on Sunday takes place at Anfield as Liverpool (1.43) take on hated rivals Man United (7.75), as the Red Devils try to dent Liverpool’s record breaking title run.
19.01.20 – Liverpool vs Man United
Market: Draw (5.15)
Given their form and winning record at Anfield this season, where they are yet to drop any points, it is hard to look past Liverpool in this one. Yet, Man United are the only side to have taken any points from them so far, albeit at Old Trafford, and given the home side’s relatively low odds the best chance of a good payout here is the draw.
Market: Both teams to score – Yes (1.86)
It is practically unthinkable to even contemplate Liverpool failing to score at Anfield and despite their struggles away from home, United’s front three are on fire at the moment. At that price, it is worth a gamble given all the attacking talent on the pitch.
Market: Anytime goalscorer – Firmino (2.62)
The Brazilian international is in top form at the moment as he scored the winner in his last match against Tottenham. Given the tight encounter expected it might take something special to break the deadlock and he is the one man on the pitch most qualified to do so. He also has the highest price out of Liverpool’s front three. A risk worth taking.
Market: Anytime goalscorer – Marcus Rashford (3.20)
The Mancunian forward is in the form of his life at the moment having already scored 14 goals in the EPL this season, his personal best so far. Add that to the fact the he is Man United’s designated penalty and set-piece taker and at that price he is definitely worth a punt. Remember, he already scored against Liverpool in his short career, twice. Assurance.
Market: Penalty – Yes (3.00)
Man United have been assigned 9 penalties so far this season, compared to Liverpool’s 4. Given the attacking talent on the pitch with 6 pacey forwards and the stature of this fixture, where things tend to get pretty messy on the pitch, the price here is definitely worth looking at.
18.01.20 – Real Madrid vs Sevilla
Market: Draw (4.50)
Real Madrid could possibly head into this game without Hazard, Benzema, Bale, Jovic and Sergio Ramos. They are all struggling with injuries and have not trained with the group so far, with late fitness tests to determine whom of these will be available to play. Factor in the 2 Spanish Supercopa games played by Los Blancos and it’s not far fetched to see Sevilla taking a point here, if not all 3.
Market: Under 2.5 goals (2.22)
Sevilla will be happy with a point at the Bernabeu and given all the missing offensive players for the home side, it is easy to imagine Zidane’s troops struggling to break down Sevilla’s defence. Given the price and the circumstances it’s a punt worth pondering.
Market: Rodrygo Goes (2.90)
With both Bale and Hazard doubtful for this match the young Brazilian is assured of a start here, given his form so far this season. He has performed every time he has been called upon despite his young age and is mature well beyond his years. Prospect.
Market: Isco (3.75)
After a lacklustre start to the season the Spanish playmaker is now arguably Real Madrid’s most in form player, standing out in both Spanish Supercopa games last week. He is assured a start considering the injuries and at that price he is a gamble worth taking. Underrated.
17.01.20 – Schalke 04 vs B. Monchengladbach
Market: B. Monchengladbach (2.65)
This one could go either way as the odds suggest but the away side know that they cannot afford to lose points with Bayern Munich breathing down their neck and RB Leipzig 2 points in front. If they want to have a shot at that much elusive Bundesliga title, a win in the first post winter break match is a must. Motivated.
Market: Over 2.5 goals (1.72)
These two teams combined scored 62 times in 17 games this season whilst conceding 39 times altogether. Both managers like to play offensive free flowing football with a high number of talented forwards on both ends. A recipe for goals.
Market: Both teams to score – Yes (1.56)
This market has been hit in 4 out of the last 5 times these two teams played each other. Their last meeting in August ended in a scoreless draw which further increases the probability of goals being scored in this match. Practically a give away.
