The sporting calendar bursts with another seven days of top-flight action this week. Tension is mounting as Euro 2024 enters the knockout stages, promising nail-biting encounters among the European elites. Meanwhile, the Copa America heats up with a sizzling schedule of high-octane matches featuring CONMEBOL and CONCACAF powerhouses.
Fancy a change of pace from the footie? Look no further than the T20 World Cup across the pond, which is about to reach its thrilling climax! The semi-final pairings are confirmed, and soon we’ll be crowning a new global T20 champion.
We didn’t forget the golf lovers, of course. This week sees the prestigious Italian Open tee off at the Adriatic Golf Club. With a new venue and a world-class field vying for the title, expect some precision putting and dramatic drives on this picturesque Italian course.
Why not spice up your sporting experience this week with some high value bets? With a plethora of sporting spectacles on the horizon between June 27th and July 3rd, we’ve combed through the odds at bookmaker Pinnacle and selected a winning shortlist of fact-based picks.
Best Football Predictions This Week
The Euro 2024 group stages are almost over and the round of 16 lineup is shaping up. The first tantalising knockout tie pits Switzerland against current holders Italy. We’ll dissect this mouthwatering clash before shifting our attention to the Copa America. Exciting fixtures like Panama vs. USA and Uruguay vs. Bolivia could offer some tasty betting opportunities.
Switzerland to Beat Italy @ 3.330
Euro 2024’s knockout stages kick off this Saturday with a feisty encounter between Switzerland and Italy in Berlin! The Swiss came agonisingly close to toppling hosts Germany for top spot in their group, only to be denied by a last-gasp equaliser.
This Swiss team is proving a right tough nut to crack. They’ve only lost one game in their last 17, a remarkable run stretching back 18 months. However, goalscoring has been a bit of a headache – nine of their last 14 matches have finished in draws, including two so far at Euro 2024.
It’s been a bit of a sticky patch for the Azzurri since their Euros triumph. But they scraped through their final group game with a dramatic late equaliser. Mattia Zaccagni popped up in stoppage time to nick a point off Croatia, a timely boost for their morale.
Italy’s stuttering form throws this knockout clash wide open. We could be in for a tense encounter, with extra time and penalties a real possibility.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: June 26th, 12:00 A.M. (GMT)
At Euro 2020, three of their four knockout matches needed extra time or penalties. They squeezed past Austria in extra time and then held their nerve to win shootouts against Spain and England. However, their defence seems a bit more vulnerable this time around, so a repeat performance might be a tall order.
Italy boss Luciano Spalletti shuffled things up against Croatia, bringing Matteo Darmian into a three-man defence. But let’s be honest, their performance wasn’t exactly firing on all cylinders. To make matters worse, Ricardo Calafiori’s suspension forces at least one more alteration. Expect Gianluca Mancini to slot into the starting lineup for this crucial clash.
The Swiss will be brimming with confidence after holding Germany and fancy their chances of causing an upset. This tie could be a tactical tussle, with both sides cancelling each other out. However, we predict a narrow 1-0 win for Switzerland. Bookmaker Pinnacle offers odds of 3.330 for a Swiss victory in normal time.
USA to Beat Panama 1-0 @ 6.510
Team USA have a shot at booking their place in the Copa America knockout stages this Thursday. They face Panama in a crunch clash at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
The Stars and Stripes got their Copa America campaign off to a flying start, comfortably beating Bolivia 2-0 in their opener. Meanwhile, their opponents Panama fell to a 3-1 defeat against Uruguay.
Los Canaleros held Uruguay at bay for most of the match, within touching distance for over 80 minutes. But the wheels came off in the closing stages, conceding two late goals to fall 3-1.
This loss marks a double blow for Thomas Christiansen’s men, as it’s their second consecutive defeat. However, they’ll be looking to avoid a hat-trick of losses on Thursday, which will be the first time since Christiansen took over as the new Panama boss.
Host nations have enjoyed a charmed run in the Copa America since the rotating format began in 1987. None of them failed to make it to the knockout stages since then and a victory for Christian Pulisic and company against Panama will see that trend continue.
On a cautionary note though, the USA isn’t invincible at home. They were stung by a surprise 2-1 defeat to Panama at MetLife Stadium during the 2011 Gold Cup group stage. Can they avoid a similar upset this time around?
※ Current Odds Date & Time: June 26th, 12:00 A.M. (GMT)
The bookies have USA as clear favourites against Panama, so a simple win for the home team won’t offer much in terms of odds. Thankfully, bookmaker Pinnacle has some interesting specific score betting options.
We believe a narrow 1-0 victory for the US could be a shrewd punt. Panama have frustrated the Americans in their recent encounters, but it would be an uphill battle for them to spoil the US party on enemy territory.
Uruguay to Cover -2.25 Spread Against Bolivia @ 2.020
It’s Uruguay vs. Bolivia at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on Thursday! It will be the final matchday two match-up as the Group C sides lock horns for their second match of the Copa America 2024 campaign.
Uruguay got their Copa America mission off to a winning start, beating Panama 3-1 on matchday one. Meanwhile, Bolivia slumped to another defeat in the competition, going down 2-0 to the USA.
Uruguay bagged two crucial goals after the 85th minute to seal a 3-1 win over Panama. This extends their winning streak in the group stages to a remarkable three tournaments in a row!
It’s a turnaround in fortunes for La Celeste, aka the Sky Blues. After failing to win any of their first three games in 2024, scoring a measly two goals, they’ve now rattled in seven goals in two consecutive wins.
Victory on Thursday, coupled with a positive result for the USA against Panama, would see them march into the knockout stages for a hat-trick of Copa America appearances.
Bolivia, meanwhile, fell behind early again and were forced to chase the game for a full 90 minutes. This seems to be a worrying trend for Manager Antonio Carlos Zago’s men – conceding within the opening five minutes in two games on the bounce.
To make matters worse, five of their last eight goals conceded have come within the first half-hour. Their win-less run at the Copa America stretches to a dismal 13 matches, with just a solitary victory in their last 31 appearances at the tournament. Their last win in the competition came nine years ago, when they got the better of Ecuador in a cagey 3-2 affair.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: June 26th, 12:00 A.M. (GMT)
Uruguay’s firing frontline is unlikely to be held back by Bolivia’s leaky defence. Bookmaker Pinnacle offers tempting odds of 2.020 for Uruguay to win by a margin of over two goals (covering a -2.25 spread).
Best Cricket Predictions This Week
The heat is on in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup this week. We’re on the brink of two heart-stopping semi-finals on June 27th and 28th, and with them comes a bounty of betting options for cricket fans.
England to Beat India @ 2.330
The stage is set for a blockbuster clash in the T20 World Cup. India and England go head-to-head at Providence Stadium in the second semi-final on Thursday afternoon. This tournament has been a rollercoaster ride, serving up everything from nail-biting finishes to stunning upsets.
Now, the favourites and defending champions lock horns for a shot at glory in the grand final.
India fans have been the loudest and proudest at this T20 World Cup, aside from the home supporters of course. A sea of blue shirts roared their heroes on to a romping semi-final victory over Australia in their final Super Eight outing.
India’s skipper, Rohit Sharma, blazed a trail at the top of the order, scoring a majestic 92 runs from just 41 balls. This helped propel his team to the second-highest total of the tournament so far – a mighty 205/5. Only the West Indies’ 218/5 against Afghanistan in the first round group stage surpasses this impressive score.
Out of the remaining teams, however, India would probably have preferred anyone but England. The Three Lions were the ones who sent them packing at this very stage in the 2022 World Cup, so there’ll be a score to settle on Thursday.
England have not been at their best in the tournament so far, however, but they put on a dominant display against co-hosts USA to book their place in the semi-final.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: June 26th, 12:00 A.M. (GMT)
Bookmaker Pinnacle places India as the favourites for this heavyweight clash, while England get the underdog treatment. This is understandable considering England’s dodgy form in limited over cricket lately.
However, England will be brimming with confidence having bested India at this very stage in the 2022 World Cup. The Men in Blue, despite their favourites tag, haven’t lifted an ICC trophy since 2013. The scars of their heartbreaking ODI World Cup final defeat to Australia at home might still linger. So, don’t be surprised if England emerges victorious here.
Afghanistan to Beat South Africa @ 3.330
Seven semi-final exits in a row at the World Cup have earned South Africa a harsh reputation: chokers. But this year, with some of the big guns out of the way, they might just fancy their chances of finally ending the heartbreak.
The Proteas secured their place in the last four with a tense victory over the West Indies in their final group match, even though none of their batsmen managed a big score. Still, they’re the only unbeaten team left in the tournament, and as they say, winning ugly is just as good as winning pretty in the knockout stages.
Who would have predicted it? Afghanistan’s fairytale journey to the semi-finals is a remarkable feat, underlining their rapid progress despite sitting at 10th in the ICC T20 rankings.
Their group stage was impressive, holding off the mighty New Zealand and advancing alongside the West Indies. But the real magic happened in the Super Eights. First, they stunned Australia with a 21-run victory, containing the explosive Aussie batting lineup to only 127 runs.
Then, they edged out fellow Asian side Bangladesh by eight runs (via DLS) to secure their historic first-ever World Cup semi-final appearance.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: June 26th, 12:00 A.M. (GMT)
Bookies have Afghanistan as massive underdogs, but the Blue Tigers have shown that they thrive on defying expectations. They boast players topping the batting and bowling charts, so a win wouldn’t be out of the question. Feeling bold? We’re taking a punt on Pinnacle’s juicy odds of 3.330 for an Afghan upset.
True, South Africa have swept their last two encounters with Afghanistan in this format. But past performances, especially in World Cups, can be a double-edged sword for the Proteas. While their head-to-head record against the Afghans is favourable, their history of semi-final underperformances is a nagging concern.
Best Golf Predictions This Week
The European swing reaches its penultimate stop this week as the DP World Tour continues at the Italian Open. With a wide-open field taking on the Adriatic Golf Club, there could be some value to be found for punters.
Calum Hill to Win @ 53.050
Calum Hill is in red-hot form heading into the Italian Open. He’s been an epitome of consistency throughout 2024, missing just one cut in 12 starts. This reliability is backed up by his recent runner-up finish at the Scandinavian Mixed, proving he can contend and adapt to various course layouts.
Ranked 13th in greens in regulation, the Scotsman’s accuracy will be a huge weapon this week at the Adriatic Golf Club Cervia, where finding the putting surface makes a huge difference.
And it doesn’t stop there – Hill sits at fifth in scrambling, so even if his approach shots go astray a bit, his short game is sharp enough to save par and keep him in the hunt. With the course known for its tricky little greens, Hill’s well-rounded game is looking perfect for a tilt at the Italian Open title.
Top finishes at venues like Karen Country Club and Galgorm Castle, known for their tight fairways and tricky greens, prove he thrives under pressure. The Adriatic Golf Club Cervia’s composite layout holds no fear for him – his adaptability is a major strength. With his current form and well-rounded skillset, all signs point to a serious challenge for the Italian Open title this week.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: June 26th, 12:00 A.M. (GMT)
Despite odds of a whopping 53.050 with bookmaker Pinnacle, don’t write Calum Hill off just yet. Our analysis of the Adriatic Golf Club and his fantastic form suggest he’s a potential title contender in this week’s Italian Open. We feel particularly confident because the field is not packed with superstars, so Hill’s championship prospects are quite solid.
Best MMA Predictions This Week
This Saturday UFC 303 will hit the Octagon, bringing a fiery mix of MMA match-ups and a treasure trove of betting opportunities for fight fans. Here are our picks for the event:
Pereira vs. Prochazka to Last Under 1.5 Rounds @ 2.350
Alex Pereira puts his light heavyweight crown on the line in a highly anticipated re-match against Jiri Prochazka. These two warriors go toe-to-toe again after their epic battle at UFC 295.
Not only is Alex Pereira the reigning light heavyweight king, but he’s also a former middleweight champion – all in a staggering 12 professional MMA fights. Talk about a fast track to the top!
Pereira silenced Prochazka with a knockout win at UFC 295 last winter, proving he’s the new king of the light heavyweight division. And just to solidify his reign, he crushed former champ Jamahal Hill at UFC 300 in a lightning-fast beatdown that took less than three minutes.
Jiri Prochazka, the 31-year-old Czech powerhouse, boasts a fearsome record of 30-1 (26 knockouts, three submissions, one draw). After honing his skills in Europe and Japan, he exploded onto the UFC scene in 2020, sparking a meteoric rise.
He wasted no time making a statement, putting out former title challenger Volkan Oezdemir in the second round. Dominick Reyes suffered a similar fate shortly after, propelling Prochazka into a shot at the light-heavyweight crown in June 2022. In a dramatic fight, he snatched the title from Glover Teixeira with a last-minute submission, etching his name in UFC history.
However, a cruel twist of fate sidelined him with injury, forcing him to relinquish the belt un-defended. Returning in 2023, he tasted defeat against the reigning champion, Alex Pereira. But Prochazka is a fighter known for his resilience, bouncing back swiftly with a second-round stoppage of Aleksandar Rakic. Now hungry to reclaim his throne, he steps back inside the cage with a point to prove.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: June 26th, 12:00 A.M. (GMT)
Jiri Prochazka is a formidable fighter, but Alex Pereira seems to operate on another level. His lightning-fast strikes and raw power have overwhelmed many opponents, including Prochazka in their previous encounter. This fight has the potential to be a quickfire thriller, so we’re interested by Pinnacle’s exciting odds of 2.350 for the contest to be settled inside the first round and a half.
Best Rugby League Predictions This Week
Week 17 of the NRL is upon us, and with it comes a golden chance to score some incredible punts. Here are three cracking NRL tips that could help you make big money.
Bulldogs to Win @ 2.520
Back in round two, the Bulldogs fell to a dominant 25-6 victory for the Sharks, but the boys from Belmore are a different beast now. After stringing together three consecutive wins against the Dragons, Knights and Eels, they were brought back down to earth by the Roosters (26-8).
Still, the Bulldogs hold onto that crucial sixth spot and are firmly in the finals hunt for the first time since 2016. They will feel confident to bite back and silence the Sharks this time around, especially since Bronson Xerri will return to the squad after recovering from a hamstring injury.
The Sharks, on the other hand, have had a bye in round 16 and are itching to rediscover their winning form. They’ve hit a rough patch lately, losing three of their last four, including a heartbreaking two-point defeat to the Dolphins where a slow start proved costly.
But despite this recent wobble, the Sharks remain comfortably in third place, with a healthy four-point lead over the Roosters breathing down their necks in fourth.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: June 26th, 12:00 A.M. (GMT)
Can the Bulldogs break their winless streak against the Sharks? They’ll need to rewrite history, having lost all nine of their previous encounters. Since the Sharks haven’t exactly been setting the world alight, we are rooting for a Bulldogs win in this one. Bookmaker Pinnacle prices a win for the hosts at 2.520.
Warriors to Win @ 2.230
The Warriors are in for a tough one this week. They’ll need to dig deep and bounce back from a humiliating 66-6 defeat to the Titans. Entering the season with premiership aspirations, the Warriors now find themselves languishing in 13th place. But will they rise to the challenge? Their opponents, the well-rested Broncos, come into the match after a bye week.
The New Zealand Warriors’ grip on a finals berth seems to be loosening. Back-to-back losses have snapped their three-game winning streak, and they now find themselves three points adrift of the eighth-placed North Queensland Cowboys.
But it’s the manner of their most recent defeat that’s most alarming. The Gold Coast Titans completely outplayed them, cruising to a resounding 66-6 victory. The Warriors were shut out in the first half and embarrassingly conceded over 30 points in each half.
The Brisbane Broncos are mirroring the Warriors’ woes with a three-game losing streak of their own. Their latest defeat came by a 10-point margin to the Rabbitohs. While they cling onto a spot in the top eight, their grip is weakening with each loss. Can they turn things around, or will this slump see them tumble down the ladder?
※ Current Odds Date & Time: June 26th, 12:00 A.M. (GMT)
Andrew Webster’s men will be desperate to treat their loyal fans with a victory this weekend. Broncos have been far from their best lately and their woes could deepen in Auckland. We expect a close win for the Warriors in this one, which should earn you a 2.23 return.
Knights to Cover -2.5 Spread Against Eels @ 2.150
Knights and Eels are coming off the bye, well-rested and eager to make a strong push towards the finals after an up-and-down season so far in 2024.
The Knights currently occupy 12th position on the ladder after a three-game losing streak. However, there were silver linings in their narrow 26-18 defeat to Penrith in round 15, suggesting they’re still capable of competing against the best.
The Parramatta Eels find themselves in a sticky situation, currently wallowing in 16th place. They’ve only managed one win in their last eight games, and all eyes are on Blues halfback Mitch Moses to lead the charge after his State of Origin duties.
Their remaining fixtures include clashes against the Melbourne Storm, Penrith Panthers, and Sydney Roosters – all top contenders. So, for the Eels to have any hope of finals footy, they need a good run against teams outside the top eight, starting this week.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: June 26th, 12:00 A.M. (GMT)
The history books aren’t on the Knights’ side – they’ve fallen to the Eels in their last eight meetings. But let’s not forget the Eels are in a rut themselves, having only managed one win from their last eight. This could be the Knights’ chance to break the streak. With the Eels vulnerable, the Knights covering the -2.5 point spread at 2.150 odds looks too good to ignore.
The Best Bets to Make This Week
We’ve scouted the hottest sports events for the upcoming weekend, all with some cracking betting opportunities in mind. So, grab your mates, settle on the sofa, and enjoy the action! Here are our top tips for a winning week:
- Switzerland to beat Italy @ 3.330
- USA to beat Panama 1-0 @ 6.510
- Uruguay to cover -2.25 spread against Bolivia @ 2.020
- England to beat India @ 2.330
- Afghanistan to beat South Africa @ 3.330
- Calum Hill to win Italian Open @ 53.050
- Pereira vs. Prochazka to last under 1.5 rounds @ 2.350
- Bulldogs to win @ 2.520
- Warriors to win @ 2.230
- Knights to cover -2.5 spread against Eels @ 2.150
We’ve thrown in a few cheeky picks alongside some safe bets this week. If you fancy taking a punt, there are plenty of options to choose from. Happy betting!
