A bumper week of sport is upon us, with major events like the Euros, US Open golf, and the NBA Finals gracing our television screens. With so much high-profile action on the horizon, why not add to the excitement with some winning bets? We’ve scoured bookmakers Pinnacle and bet365 for the best odds and picked out some excellent selections for you.
Don’t just watch the action unfold – be part of it with some smart bets. We’re here to give you the edge with exclusive insights and expert predictions. So, get ready to place your wagers with confidence and potentially celebrate some big wins!
Our Football Predictions This Weekend
Europe’s domestic leagues may be on hiatus, but there’s no reason to feel bored, football fans! The Euros are here to fill the void with a week of top-flight international action. The continent’s finest players clash for glory, and we’ve picked out three bets from three unmissable matches to whet your appetite for the tournament.
Spain Over 1.5 Goals Against Croatia @ 2.110
Get set for a mouthwatering clash at the Olympiastadion as Spain lock horns with Croatia in the Group B opener. Spain’s red-hot forwards, fresh from a goal glut in their warm-up wins over Andorra (5-0) and Northern Ireland (5-1), will be itching to get on the scoresheet.
The Checkered Ones, however, will be no pushovers. The evergreen Luca Modric will return to wear the armband once again and try to avenge his nation’s UEFA Nations League 2023 final loss against the two time champions.
Croatia secured an impressive 2-1 victory over a strong Portugal side in their final warm-up game and will be looking to build on that momentum. Head coach Zlatko Dalic has a team that boasts a wealth of experience with Luka Modric, Mateo Kovacic, Marcelo Brozovic, and Andrej Kramaric all in their ranks, posing a significant threat to Spain. Manchester City defender Josko Gvardiol is expected to start despite concerns over fatigue.
Croatia’s defence has shown some vulnerability recently, relying heavily on the young talent Gvardiol, who, despite his immense promise at 22, lacks the experience of a seasoned veteran. Domagoj Vida, a key figure in past successes, is nearing the end of his career at AEK Athens.
This could present opportunities for Spain’s nimble attack, featuring the pace of Dani Olmo and the finishing prowess of Alvaro Morata. A high-scoring encounter is a distinct possibility, with at least two goals likely for La Roja.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: June 11th, 10:00 A.M. (GMT)
Bookmaker Pinnacle has Spain priced at 2.110 to score over 1.5 goals. Given Spain’s potent attack, backed by their world-class midfield creators, this looks like a good value bet. They should be able to find the net at least twice with relative ease.
Switzerland to Beat Scotland @ 2.010
Scotland will face Switzerland on June 19th at the RheinEnergieStadion in Cologne. This gives them a slight advantage in terms of recovery, as their opening Group A match against Germany takes place on June 14th.
While Switzerland’s June 15th match against Hungary gives them three days of recovery before facing Scotland, the difference may be negligible this early in the tournament. However, playing both games at the RheinEnergieStadion eliminates travel concerns for Switzerland.
Scotland secured their place at the finals by finishing runners-up in their qualifying group. This marks their first automatic qualification for a major tournament since the 1998 World Cup, achieved through a strong start to the campaign with a string of impressive victories. However, their momentum has dipped recently, and they might need to rediscover their early form here.
Switzerland also came second in their qualifying group, somewhat unexpectedly behind Romania. Despite this, the Swiss boast a consistent record in major tournament qualification, having only missed out on Euro 2012 and the 2002 World Cup this century.
This match carries significant weight for both sides. Since both will be playing their second group match, this tie will have major implications in their knockout stage aspirations. Scotland would be eyeing a historic first-ever qualification for the knockout stages of a major international tournament.
Conversely, Switzerland are seasoned campaigners, having reached the knockout rounds of every major tournament since 2014 – an impressive five-tournament streak.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: June 11th, 10:00 A.M. (GMT)
When it comes to major international tournaments, there is a gulf in experience between the two sides. This could prove crucial at this stage of the competition. Knowing a positive result is vital for their qualification hopes, Rossocrociati are the likelier among the two to rise up to the occasion and produce a decisive performance. Bookmaker Pinnacle favours a Switzerland victory at 2.010.
Italy vs. Albania – Both Teams to Score (No) & Under 2.5 @ 2.160
Defending champions Italy kick off their Euro 2024 campaign against Albania. It seems a lifetime ago that the Azzurri etched their names in history at Wembley, a feat overshadowed by their subsequent absence from two World Cups. Despite a period of upheaval, Italy now find themselves under the guidance of one of the most decorated managers in international football.
Luciano Spaletti took charge of the Italian side after leading Napoli to a historic Serie A title in the 2022/23 season. While Spaletti is a proven tactician, he might not have gotten enough time to implement his vision.
Meanwhile, Albania, under the guidance of former Arsenal defender Sylvinho, have undergone a remarkable transformation. They topped their qualifying group, reaching the European Championship for only the second time in their history.
Italy face a tricky test in Group B, which also includes Spain and Croatia. They’ll be looking to kick off their campaign with a win against Albania and take off the pressure as much as they can before their last two group matches.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: June 11th, 10:00 A.M. (GMT)
Albania’s rock-solid defence was the foundation of their qualification success. They conceded a mere four goals in eight games, boasting a strong backline with several players experienced in Italy’s Serie A. Captain Berat Djimsiti, a key figure in Atalanta’s Europa League triumph, anchors the backline.
Elseid Hysaj brings a wealth of experience from his years with Napoli and Lazio. Midfielder Kristjan Asllani further bolsters the Italian connection, having featured in 23 league games for title-winning Inter Milan. With nine players from Serie A in their squad, Albania are a team to be taken seriously.
Despite Albania’s defensive resilience, Italy remain favourites to secure victory. However, a tight contest is anticipated, with a low-scoring affair more likely than a goal-fest. This is reflected in Bookmaker Pinnacle‘s odds of 2.160 for “Both Teams to Score/Total Goals No & Under 2.5”. We believe this is the best wager for this particular match.
Our Cricket Predictions This Weekend
There is a cricket World Cup going on and it’s taking place in the United States. We never thought we would ever be writing those words, but here we are! The 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup has been nothing short of a delight so far, and we expect the excitement to continue over the next few days as well. We have looked at bookmaker bet365 to find the best cricket bets for the weekend.
Bangladesh vs. Netherlands – Towhid Hridoy Top Bangladeshi Batter @ 6.50
Bangladesh and Netherlands clash in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines after similar starts to their T20 World Cup campaigns. Bangladesh hold the upper hand historically, having won three of their last four encounters. Their potent bowling attack could prove decisive. However, the Netherlands, known as giant-killers, will be eager to spring a surprise.
Following their narrow four-run defeat to South Africa, Najmul Hossain Shanto’s men will be understandably frustrated. Reckless batting from the team saw them squander a modest chase of 114. They need to bounce back strong in this one, and Shanto wants his lads to forget the last game and put on a proper show.
A four-wicket loss to South Africa has left Scott Edwards’ side with a mountain to climb. Qualification for the next round hinges on a win against Bangladesh, a team known for their fighting spirit. This will be a significant test for the Dutch batsmen, and Edwards will be urging them to improve their performance significantly.
The opening partnership has been a cause for concern, and a strong showing from Tanzid Hasan and Najmul Hossain Shanto is paramount. The experienced middle order, featuring Litton Das, Shakib al Hasan, and Towhid Hridoy, needs to build substantial partnerships. Jaker Ali and Mahmudullah can provide a late flourish with quick runs in the lower middle order, propelling the team to a commanding total.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: June 11th, 10:00 A.M. (GMT)
Towhid Hridoy has been a glaring exception in the Bangladeshi top order. After scoring a quickfire 40 off 22 balls against Sri Lanka, the 23-year-old contributed 37 runs against South Africa. Hridoy might feel unlucky to be on the receiving end of a controversial lbw call in the last match, but he should be the one to lead the charge for Bangladesh once again.
Bookmaker bet365 is offering odds of 6.50 on Towhid Hridoy being the highest run scorer amongst Bangladeshi batsmen. That seems too good an opportunity to miss.
England vs. Oman – Phil Salt Top England Batter @ 3.60
England and Oman occupy opposite ends of the cricketing legacy spectrum, yet both remain winless in this World Cup. The rain denied a result in their opener against Scotland, before a humbling 36-run defeat to Australia.
Oman will be playing their fourth match in the competition, having lost all of the first three. Their maiden fixture ended in a dramatic super over tie against Namibia. Then they produced a spirited display against Australia, but ultimately fell short and lost by 39 runs.
The most recent match saw them succumb to Scotland by seven wickets, effectively eliminating their playoff hopes. Therefore, the clash against England is their last chance to salvage some pride and deliver one of the biggest upsets of the tournament.
A dominant display from Australia in Barbados has left England’s T20 World Cup defence hanging by a thread. Their mammoth total, the highest of the tournament so far thanks to a quickfire opening partnership of 70 from David Warner and Travis Head, proved insurmountable for a lacklustre England batting line-up. Spinner Adam Zampa was instrumental in dismantling their chase, leaving their qualification for the Super Eights in serious doubt.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: June 11th, 10:00 A.M. (GMT)
England will hope to bounce back with a win against a much less menacing Oman side, but the Middle Eastern country might not make it easy for the Three Lions.
England’s strength in white-ball cricket, traditionally built on aggressive batting, has been tested on surfaces that aid seam and swing bowling more than expected. Despite this setback, there are reasons for optimism.
Phil Salt and Jos Buttler, known for their explosive batting, seem to be finding ways to score runs in these conditions. England would be looking for a fast start from their openers against Oman to make sure they pick up a win in this one.
Jos Buttler and Phil Salt are both excellent choices for top scorer, but our money’s on the Kolkata Knight Riders batsman to lead the way for England’s runs in this match. bet365 offers odds of 3.60 for this outcome.
Afghanistan vs. Papua New Guinea – Rahmanullah Gurbaz Top Afghanistan Batter @ 3.50
Afghanistan have emerged as the ultimate dark horse in short form cricket competitions. They have some world class players in their ranks, who are capable of delivering against the creme de la creme of world cricket. The Blue Tigers will look to move closer to the Super 8 with a commanding victory against Papua New Guinea.
Afghanistan started their World Cup mission with a whopping 125 win against Uganda before stunning New Zealand in their second match. The Asian side backed up their dominant opening day win with a 84 run victory against the Black Caps, which put them on the verge of Super 8 qualification.
In contrast, Papua New Guinea are yet to register a win in the competition. While they threatened the co-hosts West Indies in their opening match, a composed partnership between Roston Chase and Andre Russell snatched victory away. The Barramundis came close to defending a modest total of 77 runs against Uganda but ultimately suffered a three-wicket defeat.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: June 11th, 10:00 A.M. (GMT)
Based on what we have seen so far, Papua New Guinea have a formidable bowling line up. However, the Afghan batsmen have been even more destructive, dismantling bowling attacks in their opening two matches.
This sets the stage for a fascinating contest at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Trinidad and Tobago, with the Papua New Guinea bowlers potentially facing a long evening.
Rahman Gurbaz is on fire with the bat, and this match presents a great opportunity for him to be their leading run-scorer again. He’s notched fifties in both matches so far, and against Papua New Guinea, he might aim even higher. Bookmaker bet365 has him at 3.50 to be Afghanistan’s top scorer.
Our Golf Predictions This Weekend
The 124th US Open returns to Pinehurst No. 2, a Donald Ross masterpiece, from 13th to 16th June. Held in the Sandhills of North Carolina, often referred to as the ‘Cradle of American Golf’, this prestigious tournament will see the world’s elite golfers battle it out on a notoriously demanding course. Here’s our thoughts on the potential winner of the competition:
Scottie Scheffler to Win @ 4.410
Scottie Scheffler secured his fifth victory of 2024 at the Memorial on Sunday, becoming the first player since 1980 to achieve this feat at this stage of the season.
Now, he heads to the U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2 as the clear favourite amongst bookmakers. However, despite his remarkable run of form, a question lingers: should his lack of major championship success outside of Augusta National give punters reasons for second thought?
Scheffler’s current form is nothing short of phenomenal. Every statistical indicator points towards his favouritism at the U.S. Open. Golf, of course, can be unpredictable, and even the most dominant players can stumble.
However, Scheffler’s consistency is truly awe-inspiring. He boasts an unblemished cut record for nearly two years and hasn’t finished outside the top 17 since last August. In fact, his last seven tournaments prior to the Memorial yielded a staggering four wins, two second-place finishes, and a respectable tie for eighth at the PGA Championship.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: June 11th, 10:00 A.M. (GMT)
Bookmaker Pinnacle has installed Scottie Scheffler as the clear favourite for the U.S. Open at 4.410, while Xander Schauffele trails considerably at 11.550. Schauffele’s recent form has been underwhelming, with an uninspiring tie for eighth at the Memorial.
Despite his irons lacking their usual precision, he displayed remarkable adaptability by leading the field in putting, accumulating a staggering 8.03 strokes gained on the greens.
Although he has suffered a recent dip in form, Xander Schauffele shouldn’t be discounted entirely. Throughout the season, he amassed a respectable record with six top-five finishes and four additional top-10s, including his impressive victory at the PGA Championship.
While Scottie Scheffler is the clear favourite this week, opting for Schauffele at 11.550 could be an option if you feel a bit adventurous. We, however, strongly recommend sticking with Scheffler.
Our Rugby League Predictions This Weekend
Turning our attention to the Southern Hemisphere for some enthralling National Rugby League fixtures this week. The 2024 NRL season reaches its 15th week, with a series of high-octane clashes sure to capture the attention of punters worldwide.
Sharks to Cover -9.0 Spread Against Dolphins @ 1.917
Round 15 heats up with a mouthwatering clash between two top-four sides, the Sharks and the Dolphins. Both sides are hungry to make a statement and solidify their premiership credentials. This high-stakes encounter promises a thrilling display of NRL action, leaving fans eagerly awaiting kickoff.
Buoyed by their recent 22-12 victory against the Broncos, Cronulla return home for the opening match of the round. Their sights are firmly set on displacing Melbourne from the NRL premiership summit with a resounding home victory.
The Sharks return to PointsBet Stadium for the first time since their demoralising 42-0 defeat to the Panthers in Round 12. This is a fixture Craig Fitzgibbon will be determined to banish from memory, and with key halfback Nicho Hynes back in the fold and morale boosted by last week’s impressive away win, Cronulla appear well-equipped to deliver a performance that will restore pride for their home supporters.
The Dolphins receive a welcome boost with the return of Origin stars Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Felise Kaufusi, who missed the Round 13 loss to the Raiders. This reintegration necessitates a reshuffle in the backline, with Mark Nicholls shifting to the bench and Trai Fuller omitted from the 17-man squad. Additionally, Kodi Nikorima recovers from a calf injury to reclaim his starting spot at five-eighth, forcing Anthony Milford out of the matchday squad.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: June 11th, 10:00 A.M. (GMT)
The Dolphins have been the surprise package of the season, exceeding expectations to currently occupy a top-four spot. However, a two-game slump just before the bye week raises questions about their consistency. The return of their Origin stars is a welcome addition as they prepare for a potentially pivotal home clash against the Sharks.
This match also marks the Dolphins’ first ever NSW encounter this season, and their past record there isn’t encouraging – just one win from six attempts. Can the Dolphins overcome this historical hurdle and secure a crucial victory against the Sharks, or will their recent dip in form continue?
The Sharks are favoured to emerge victorious in this match-up, with bookmaker Pinnacle offering odds of 1.917 for a home win covering a -9 spread.
Broncos to Cover -4.0 Spread Against Rabbitohs @ 2.000
The South Sydney Rabbitohs are riding high after their unexpected triumph over the Gold Coast Titans. Can they maintain their winning momentum and secure consecutive victories for the first time this season? The Brisbane Broncos stand in their way.
Latrell Mitchell silenced his critics with a dazzling display, spearheading South Sydney’s emphatic 46-12 thrashing of the Gold Coast Titans. This dominant performance has reignited his Origin hopes and presents a significant challenge for the Brisbane Broncos. They must meticulously dissect Mitchell’s game plan if they hope to contain him in their upcoming encounter.
The Broncos, on the flip side, find themselves needing a turnaround after successive defeats to the Titans and Sharks either side of their bye week. While star fullback Reece Walsh remains sidelined with a head knock for another week, there’s some positive news with centre Kotoni Staggs named in the squad on Tuesday after recovering from a knee injury sustained in last Saturday’s loss to the Sharks.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: June 11th, 10:00 A.M. (GMT)
The Rabbitohs and Broncos are no strangers this season, having already locked horns earlier in the campaign. Brisbane emerged triumphant in that encounter, securing a dominant 10-point victory (22-12) after establishing a commanding 12-0 lead in the first half.
In fact, Brisbane holds the upper hand historically, having triumphed in four of their last five meetings against the South Sydney outfit led by Ben Hornby.
It should be a comfortable outing for the Broncos. Bookmaker Pinnacle is offering odds of 2.000 for the visitors to cover the -4.0 spread, which we believe is an excellent deal.
Raiders to Cover -3.0 Spread Against Cowboys @ 1.961
Fresh off their exhilarating golden-point victory over the Dolphins in Round 13, the Raiders return home on Friday night, eager to sustain their winning momentum. Following a well-timed bye week that allowed Ricky Stuart’s squad to refresh and regroup, they’ll look to extend their success against the visiting North Queensland Cowboys.
Jordan Rapana stole the show in their last encounter, securing the win with two crucial field goals, including the dramatic last-minute decider in the 87th minute.
This match promises to be a pivotal encounter for both sides. The Raiders, eager to maintain their grip on a top-four position, will be fiercely defending their home turf in Canberra. Meanwhile, the Cowboys travel south seeking a swift redemption arc after their disappointing 42-12 defeat to the Warriors in Townsville last Saturday night.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: June 11th, 10:00 A.M. (GMT)
The head-to-head records are not encouraging for the hosts. They will need to break a run of four straight defeats against the Cowboys if they are able to claim a huge two points.
That said, we believe the Raiders have shown enough quality on home turf this season to cover the -3.0 spread against a Cowboys side that have been mostly hit and miss over the past few months. Bookmaker Pinnacle offers a 1.961x return for this punter.
The Best Bets This Weekend
This weekend’s sporting calendar is full of can’t miss clashes. We’ve handpicked the most promising sporting events, from a betting perspective, so you can be part of the action from the comfort of your home. Here’s a quick rundown of the bets we recommend this week:
- Spain Over 1.5 Goals Against Croatia @ 2.110
- Switzerland to Beat Scotland @ 2.010
- Italy vs. Albania – Both Teams to Score (No) & Under 2.5 @ 2.160
- Bangladesh vs. Netherlands – Towhid Hridoy Top Bangladeshi Batter @ 6.50
- England vs. Oman – Phil Salt Top England Batter @ 3.60
- Afghanistan vs. Papua New Guinea – Rahmanullah Gurbaz Top Afghanistan Batter @ 3.50
- Scottie Scheffler to Win US Open 2024 @ 4.410
- Sharks to Cover -9.0 Spread Against Dolphins @ 1.917
- Broncos to Cover -4.0 Spread Against Rabbitohs @ 2.000
- Raiders to Cover -3.0 Spread Against Cowboys @ 1.961
All these bets have excellent potential for some unbelievable returns. The most lucrative one is of course backing Towhid Hridoy as the leading run-scorer for Bangladesh against the Netherlands. Scottie Scheffler winning the US Open also seems like a great way to bank some big money. Which one will you choose?
