The 2024 Paris Olympics are drawing to a close, but betting opportunities are still in full flow this week. Join us as we dissect the best betting opportunities in the final week of the Summer Olympics, featuring both team and individual events.
In addition to the Olympic extravaganza, we’ll also cast our eye over UFC Vegas 95, taking place at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas. The event is headlined by a highly anticipated rematch between heavyweight contenders Marcin Tybura and Serghei Spivac.
To help you make informed betting decisions, we’ll be utilising the latest odds from reputable bookmaker Pinnacle. Their data will provide a valuable foundation for our analysis and predictions for events taking place from August 8th-14th.
Best Athletics Prediction This Week
We will turn to one of the most ancient tests of athleticism for our Olympics athletics pick this week: javelin throw. With a host of world-class competitors vying for gold, let’s explore the best thrower to bet on this week.
Neeraj Chopra to Win Men’s Javelin Throw @ 2.150
The men’s javelin final is shaping up to be a thrilling battle royale. With a field packed with world-class talent, any of the 12 competitors could realistically claim gold.
This event is a stark contrast to many other track and field disciplines where dominance tends to reign; here, uncertainty and excitement are the order of the day.
Jakub Vadlejch’s long wait for gold ended this year after a string of near-misses including Olympic, World, and European Championship silver, and two World Championship bronze medals.
The European title won in Rome last month was a significant achievement for the Czech. How this elevated status and the subsequent pressure will affect his performance in Paris is a fascinating question.
Vadlejch has been in imperious form since the season began, clinching victory at the May Doha Diamond League with a colossal throw of 88.38 metres. The 33-year-old edged out India’s world and Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra by just two centimetres, with Grenada’s double world champion Anderson Peters finishing third at 86.36 metres.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: August 7th, 12:00 AM (GMT)
Chopra, a national hero in India following his recent triumphs, will undoubtedly mount a strong defence of his title. He’ll be aiming to breach the 90-metre barrier for the first time in his career, which currently peaks at a national record of 89.94 m set in Stockholm two years ago.
We’re backing Neeraj Chopra to successfully defend his Olympic gold for India in the men’s javelin. He topped the qualifying round with ease, demonstrating his continued world-class form.
Chopra is priced at 2.15 to join the exclusive club of multiple gold medal-winning javelin throwers.
Best Cycling Prediction This Week
With a glittering prize of 12 gold medals up for grabs in track cycling, we turn our spotlight on one particular event set to grace the Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines velodrome in the coming week.
Dylan Bibic to Win Men’s Omnium @ 7.670
Predicting a clear favourite for the Men’s Omnium is far from straightforward. Among the leading contenders, Elia Viviani could be the standout pick for many. The Italian, a gold medallist in 2016 and bronze in 2021, is the sole former podium finisher in this year’s field.
While Viviani’s teammate, Simone Consonni, a previous Olympic Team Pursuit gold medallist, is a potential dark horse, the field is stacked with World Championship pedigree.
There are three riders who have twice claimed the World Championship title: France’s Ben Thomas, Great Britain’s Ethan Hayter, and Colombia’s Fernando Gaviria.
Meanwhile, New Zealand’s Aaron Gate and France’s Thomas Boudat have each tasted World Championship glory in the event. Such a formidable line-up promises to make for a thrilling competition.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: August 7th, 12:00 AM (GMT)
However, our tip is for Dylan Bibic, who is aiming for Olympic gold at his first attempt in the Omnium. His previous performances suggest he has the ability to achieve just that.
Bibic arrives in Paris with a formidable reputation, having conquered the Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines track with impressive victories in the Elimination Race and Scratch Race, ultimately securing the Endurance Championship.
The 20-year-old has been in scintillating form this season, capturing both Elimination Races at the Adelaide and Milton World Cups, as well as the overall Omnium title in Canada.
His mastery of the Elimination Race, where he could potentially dominate, positions him as a strong gold medal contender. Bookmaker Pinnacle offers enticing odds of 7.670 on a Bibic victory.
Best Beach Volleyball Prediction This Week
Even though there is no real beach involved, the sun, the sand, and the iconic Eiffel Tower make for quite an outstanding backdrop as the 2024 Paris Olympic Women’s Beach Volleyball event approaches its climax. Here is the safest wager to place on the discipline at this stage of the competition:
Ana Patricia Silva Ramos and Eduarda Santos Lisboa to Win @ 1.847
Ana Patricia Silva and Duda Lisboa have established themselves as the undisputed queens of beach volleyball. Their extraordinary consistency, highlighted by nine gold medals, three silver medals, and five bronze medals in 25 tournaments since reuniting, underlines their status as the team to beat.
At their peak, as demonstrated by their imperious form in Brasilia in May, Ana Patricia and Duda are virtually unbeatable.
Six teams dared to challenge them on Brazilian sand, but only two managed to win a single set. Even the formidable duo of Kristen Nuss and Taryn Kloth were comprehensively defeated in the final, succumbing to a dominant 21-17, 21-14 performance in front of a roaring home crowd.
Having already savoured the taste of Olympic gold at the 2014 Youth Olympic Games in Nanjing, China, Brazil’s premier women’s beach volleyball duo are now focused on ascending to the highest step of the podium on the grandest stage of all: the Paris 2024 Olympics.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: August 7th, 12:00 AM (GMT)
The reigning world number one pair’s prospects of clinching Olympic gold were significantly enhanced following the unexpected quarterfinal exit of their closest rivals, the second-ranked American duo of Kristen Nuss and Taryn Kloth.
With a major obstacle removed from their path, Ana Patricia Silva and Duda Lisboa now stand as overwhelming favourites to secure the top prize.
The Brazilians are at 1.847, according to bookmaker Pinnacle. Switzerland’s Tanja Huberli and Nina Brunner are the second favorites at odds of 3.990. Having clinched multiple European Championships, they’ve proven their prowess at the highest level and are renowned for their formidable defensive capabilities.
Ana Patricia and Duda Lisboa may have encountered some turbulence earlier in the season, but their Olympic journey has been nothing short of exceptional. They are primed to complete their collection of major titles with an Olympic gold medal.
Best Volleyball Predictions This Week
The revised format of the 2024 Paris Olympics has allowed volleyball players to enjoy increased rest periods and deliver even more entertaining performances. With gold medal deciders drawing near, let’s explore the top betting opportunities for both the men’s and women’s competitions.
Italy to Win Men’s Volleyball @ 2.940
Poland entered the fray as the bookies favourites to win the men’s volleyball gold, but a dominant group stage performance from Italy has seen the Azzurri emerge as the new frontrunners.
Simone Giannelli and company stormed into the knockout stage with an undefeated pool record, dropping only two sets across their three matches – the fewest of any team.
Italy began their campaign with a hard-fought 3-1 win over Brazil before comfortably dispatching Egypt 3-0.
While their victory over Egypt was impressive, their most dominant performance came against world number one Poland. Outclassing the Poles in both attack and defense, they secured a crucial 3-1 win.
Despite topping their pool at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Italy faced a perilous situation in the quarterfinals on Monday. On the brink of elimination, they staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Japan in a thrilling tie-breaker and secure their place in the semi-finals.
Facing a daunting 2-0 deficit and staring down the barrel of a 24-21 third-set scoreline, the world champions produced a Herculean effort to turn the tide. In a pivotal moment, they seized control of the match and, with unwavering determination, battled back to claim a dramatic 3-2 (20-25, 23-25, 27-25, 26-24, 17-15) victory.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: August 7th, 12:00 AM (GMT)
As defending champions and with a strong world ranking of four, France are in prime position to secure a historic back-to-back gold medal in men’s volleyball. The fervent support of their home crowd will undoubtedly fuel their ambitions. The hosts are at 4.370 to celebrate the gold once again.
Poland are the second highest favourites with odds of 3.170. They have won 39 of their last 43 games, cementing their status as one of the biggest contenders.
Recent form, however, suggests Italy are strong favourites to clinch their maiden Olympic gold medal. Priced at 2.940 by bookmaker Pinnacle, we don’t see any other halting their momentum.
Italy to Win Women’s Volleyball @ 2.100
Could an Italian volleyball double be on the cards? The women’s team have matched their male counterparts in demonstrating exceptional form, raising the tantalizing prospect of a clean sweep for Italy at the 2024 Summer Olympics Volleyball.
Italy utterly dominated Pool C, finishing top of the group and securing their place in the knockout stages. Julio Velasco’s side dropped just one set as they cruised through their opponents. Their only slip-up in the pool stage was a set defeat against the Dominican Republic. However, they brushed aside the Netherlands and Turkey with comfortable 3-0 victories.
Their recent form has been outstanding, with ten wins from their last eleven matches. Their only loss in this period was against Serbia, whom they thrashed in the quarterfinals.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: August 7th, 12:00 AM (GMT)
Italy are now tantalizingly close to their first-ever Olympic women’s volleyball medal after defeating continental rivals Serbia to reach the semi-finals for the first time in history.
Riding high on their Volleyball Nations League victory, Italy delivered a masterclass against world champions Serbia, securing a convincing 3-0 (26-24, 25-20, 25-20) win. After a shaky opening, the Italians found their rhythm to deliver a dominant performance.
As it stands, the Italians seem to be an indomitable force. Their next challenge is against Turkey, a team they have already dispatched with ease. Following that, a potential clash with either the USA or Brazil awaits, but neither powerhouse appears more menacing than Italy at the moment.
Bookmaker Pinnacle has Italy as the clear favourites at odds of 2.100. Brazil are their closest challengers at 3.3740, while the defending champions, the USA, are priced at 5.5010. Turkey are considered the outsiders at 7.760.
Best Football Predictions This Week
The gold medal showdowns in both men’s and women’s football will take place on Friday and Saturday. Let’s explore our betting picks for the final rounds of 2024 Paris Olympic football.
USA to Beat Brazil in the Women’s Football Final @ 1.980
A twelve-year drought has ended for the United States women’s national team, who will battle for Olympic gold after defeating Germany 1-0 in the semi-finals. Their opponents in the final are no strangers to them at Parc des Princes in Paris this weekend.
The United States and Brazil will renew their historic rivalry in the gold medal match, their 41st meeting. The Americans have a dominant 32-3 win record over their South American counterparts, with five matches ending in stalemates.
Brazil overcame the challenge of reigning World Cup champions Spain with a convincing victory in the other semifinal. The Canarinhas staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Spain 4-2, avenging their earlier group stage loss.
An own goal gave them an early lead, and Gabi Portilho doubled their advantage before halftime. Adriana extended Brazil’s lead to three goals before Salma Paralluelo pulled one back for Spain. Kerolin restored the three-goal cushion late on, sealing a thrilling victory for the Latin Americans.
The USWNT demonstrated their trademark resilience by overcoming a tough challenge from Germany to secure their place in the semi-finals.
A goalless draw after 90 minutes necessitated extra time to separate the two sides. The deadlock was finally broken when a sublime through ball from Mallory Swanson found Sophia Smith, who delicately chipped the ball over the head of the helpless German goalkeeper, Ann-Katrin Berger.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: August 7th, 12:00 AM (GMT)
The USWNT carry a psychological edge into the final, having secured a 1-0 victory over Brazil in the final of the 2024 Concacaf Gold Cup. However, Brazil will be desperate for redemption and to rewrite the narrative.
They will be motivated to win the first Olympic gold medal in their history and give their captain, Marta, the perfect parting gift.
The six-time FIFA World Player of the Year, who will return from a two-game suspension in the final, will be lacing up her boots for the last time. Marta will be eager to bow out of her illustrious career with a golden finale and end her wait for a major international title.
Emma Hayes’ girls, however, look set to frustrate the Brazilians once again. They’ve exhibited exceptional consistency throughout the tournament and are primed to cap off their campaign with victory. Our money is firmly on the USWNT to win the gold, with bookmaker Pinnacle offering tempting odds of 1.980.
Egypt and Morocco to Draw After 90 Minutes @ 3.530
A North African showdown will decide the bronze medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics as regional rivals Morocco and Egypt lock horns in Nantes on Thursday evening.
Both nations have enjoyed remarkable campaigns, with their semi-final defeats to Spain and France respectively marking the end of their gold medal dreams. However, the opportunity to secure their country’s first-ever Olympic football medal is a prize well worth fighting for.
Morocco, fresh from their historic World Cup run, will be eager to add another chapter to their fairytale story. Egypt, no strangers to high-stakes encounters with their North African neighbours, will be equally determined to claim a historic bronze.
Morocco’s dream of Olympic gold was cruelly shattered at the Stade Velodrome. After topping their group, which included a stunning victory over Argentina, and dismantling the United States in the quarterfinals, the Atlas Lions entered their semi-final clash with Spain brimming with confidence.
Soufiane Rahimi’s early penalty gave Morocco a dream start, and they looked poised to reach the final. However, a resilient Spanish side fought back valiantly, eventually overturning the deficit to end Morocco’s fairytale run.
Egypt, on the other hand, had defied the odds to reach this stage, snatching a late equalizer against Paraguay in the quarterfinals to secure their passage.
A spirited performance against France saw the Pharaohs take the lead with just ten minutes remaining, only for the hosts to stage a dramatic comeback. Jean-Philippe Mateta’s double in extra time condemned Egypt to defeat, ending their hopes of a historic medal.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: August 7th, 12:00 AM (GMT)
With both nations on the cusp of history, there’s a sense that caution might temper their attacking flair. Therefore, we expect the match to end undecided after regulation time. Bookmaker Pinnacle offers odds of 3.530 for this particular outcome.
Spain to Beat France in the Men’s Football Final @ 3.390
A grand finale awaits at the Parc des Princes as hosts France and Iberian neighbours Spain collide in the gold medal match. Both nations have overcome stern tests against North African opposition to reach this coveted stage, and now the ultimate prize is within touching distance.
Only once before has each country stood atop the Olympic football podium, making this a historic occasion. The stage is set for a pulsating encounter as two footballing giants vie for gold on French soil.
After coming out of top in a fiery encounter with Argentina, Thierry Henry’s side are now just one victory away from securing their nation’s first football gold since 1984.
France were on the brink of Olympic heartbreak before a dramatic late fightback secured their place in the final. Down to 10 men and trailing Egypt with just minutes remaining, Les Bleus appeared destined for a shock exit.
However, a moment of inspiration from Michael Olise, setting up Jean-Philippe Mateta for an equaliser, ignited a remarkable comeback. The Crystal Palace duo struck again early in extra time, with Mateta heading home before Olise sealed the deal with a late strike.
Spain’s young guns are remarkably close to replicating the Euro 2024 success of their senior team. La Roja have produced eye-soothing football throughout the competition and made their way into the final.
Their journey to the gold medal match, however, has been far from straightforward. Overcoming a resilient Japan in the quarterfinals was followed by a dramatic comeback against Morocco in the semi-finals.
Trailing with less than half an hour remaining in Marseille, where the Atlas Lions enjoyed vociferous support, Spain showcased their resilience. Barcelona prodigy Fermin Lopez was the architect of their revival, equalising before setting up Juanlu Sanchez for a late winner.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: August 7th, 12:00 AM (GMT)
We will be seeing a European Olympic champion in men’s football for the first time since Barcelona 1992 and we believe it will be Spain. Santi Denia has a wealth of firepower in his hands, which should be enough to break the French resistance.
The Spanish side have already proven that they can thrive in a hostile atmosphere, so the home advantage might not matter much.
Bookmaker Pinnacle has installed France as slight favourites for the gold medal match, with odds of 2.390. Spain are considered the underdogs at 3.390, while a draw after 90 minutes is priced at 2.970.
Best MMA Picks This Week
After international stints in Manchester and Abu Dhabi, the UFC returns to its Las Vegas home on August 11th. We’ve analysed the card and selected our best bets for the main event and another key fight.
Tybura to Beat Spivac @ 2.360
Marcin Tybura and Serghei Spivac will lock horns once again, this time with a lot more riding on the outcome. Tybura holds a previous victory over Spivac, but the Moldovan will be eager to rewrite history and avenge the 2020 defeat.
At 39, Marcin Tybura is a seasoned veteran who has honed his craft to perfection. Possessing a clear understanding of his strengths and limitations, he has compiled an impressive 8-2 record in his last ten outings. Tybura is a well-rounded fighter with a high fight IQ, adept at capitalising on his opponents’ weaknesses while minimising his own vulnerabilities.
Serghei Spivac was riding high before his clash with Ciryl Gane in Paris, but the Frenchman’s elusive style proved to be a stumbling block. Unable to secure a finish, Spivac’s winning streak was snapped, and he has been sidelined since.
However, the former WWFC heavyweight champion has undoubtedly evolved as a fighter during his hiatus, and the rematch presents a fascinating opportunity to witness the fruits of his labour.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: August 7th, 12:00 AM (GMT)
Spivac is a dangerous striker with a knack for submissions, but Tybura’s all-round game gives him the edge in this rematch.
The Moldovan packs a punch and can finish fights with grappling prowess, but the Pole is a more complete fighter who can weather the storm and exploit opportunities. We’re backing Tybura to secure a repeat victory, with Pinnacle’s odds of 2.360 looking enticing.
Chandler to Beat Santos @ 2.250
Yana Santos looks to snap a three-fight slump when she faces Chelsea Chandler in a bantamweight clash this Saturday.
The former Invicta FC champion is a seasoned veteran known for her resilience and ability to compete at the highest level. Santos will undoubtedly bring a wealth of experience to the Octagon and is expected to provide a formidable challenge for the surging Chandler.
A product of the Nick Diaz Academy, Chelsea Chandler makes her second UFC appearance of the year following a unanimous decision victory over Josiane Nunes in March.
Despite improving her UFC record to 2-1 and overall tally to 6-2, Chandler’s weight miss in her previous fight serves as a stark reminder of the challenges she faces. The Stockton native will undoubtedly feel the pressure to pass the scales on Friday.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: August 7th, 12:00 AM (GMT)
Chandler is a raw, aggressive fighter in the classic Stockton mold, reminiscent of her Diaz brothers’ fighting style. She thrives in close quarters, mixing punches, kicks, and takedowns with reckless abandon.
While her wrestling is primarily based on strength and aggression rather than technical finesse, she’s a dangerous opponent.
Santos, though more experienced, has seen less action recently and may be showing signs of decline. While the Brazilian is the more rounded fighter, Chandler’s youth and aggression could be decisive factors.
Chandler is the underdog in the eyes of bookmaker Pinnacle, with a mouth-watering 2.250 price tag. Given her aggressive style and Santos’ potential vulnerability, those odds look like a gift waiting to be unwrapped.
The Best Bets to Make This Week
With the Olympics finish line in sight, the betting opportunities continue to get even more exciting. With a thrilling mix of Olympic action and UFC combat, this week promises to be a rollercoaster for all sports punters.
Here are our handpicked sports betting selections for the coming week:
- Neeraj Chopra to win men’s javelin throw @ 2.150
- Dylan Bibic to win men’s omnium @ 7.670
- Ana Patricia Silva Ramos and Eduarda “Duda” Santos Lisboa to win women’s volleyball @ 1.847
- Italy to win men’s volleyball @ 2.940
- Italy to win women’s volleyball @ 2.100
- USA to beat Brazil in the women’s football final @ 1.980
- Egypt and Morocco to draw after 90 minutes @ 3.530
- Spain to beat France in the men’s football final @ 3.390
- Tybura to beat Spivac @ 2.360
- Chandler to beat Santos @ 2.250
Italy’s volleyball dominance is almost written in the stars, making their short odds for gold in both men’s and women’s tournaments a steal. For those seeking a riskier proposition, Dylan Bibic’s quest for Omnium glory offers a tantalising seven-fold return.
