We are back with another set of weekly betting predictions and tips for you. The NFL is about to start this week, which makes American sports lovers pretty excited. While the euphoria is not as high in the UK, it’s still a solid event to bet on. eSports lovers should be following the International, so we will share our thoughts about the Dota 2 spectacle as well.
Other than that, it’s pretty much business as usual. We have some football matches for you to bet on. The regular NRL season is wrapping up, so we will break down three promising match-ups. We will also look at the Yanal Ashmouz vs. Trevor Peek fight at UFC Fight Night and the Omega European Masters.
Once again we have joined forces with bookmaker Pinnacle for the latest odds ahead of this week’s predictions.
Best eSports Predictions This Week
Dota 2’s most prestigious tournament, The International 2024, is back for its 13th edition. Copenhagen, Denmark, hosts the event where 16 of the world’s top teams clash for the coveted Aegis of Champions and a staggering US$2.295 million prize pool. Here’s the team you should bet on winning the tournament.
Falcons to Win @ 3.830
The 2023/2024 season has seen a total of nine tier 1 events, which have been largely dominated by a select group of teams. Team Falcons has been particularly impressive, reaching the finals in five of these events and securing four victories, making them the most successful team of the season.
They’ve conquered the likes of BetBoom Dacha Dubai, DreamLeague Seasons 22 and 23, and ESL One Birmingham, leaving a trail of vanquished opponents in their wake. Even their ‘near misses’—third-place finishes at Riyadh Masters and PGL Wallachia—serve as a testament to their incredible consistency.
The MENA side put together an exceptional lineup, full of skilled and experienced names. Skiter, Malr1ne, and ATF have showcased their individual brilliance and ability to perform under pressure by consistently delivering clutch performances.
Moreover, Aui’s strategic genius and coaching expertise have been instrumental in guiding the team to victory, with the players executing his plans with precision and efficiency.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: September 4th, 12:00 AM (GMT)
Since 2019, no team has managed to defend their International title. Bookmaker Pinnacle labels current holders Team Spirit as the favourites. The Eastern European side, however, has had a midlane change and they failed to show the level of dominance Falcons have shown this year.
Spirit have won PGL Wallacia this season and will look to win an unprecedented third Aegis of Champions. While they have an incredible roster, Falcons still appear to be the team to beat.
Gaimin Gladiators, of course, is another team we should talk about. They have enjoyed incredible success in the competitive Dota 2 scene lately, but a TI crown has remained out of their reach. Seleri and company will look to do one better than their last year’s runner-up run, but we don’t see them outperforming a Falcons unit that has been firing on all cylinders.
Best MMA Prediction This Week
Trevor Peek and Yanal Ashmouz will face off in a lightweight affair at UFC Fight Night: Burns vs. Brady on September 7th in Las Vegas. Which fighter has the best punting potential?
Yanal Ashmouz vs. Trevor Peek – Peek to Win @ 1.793
Trevor Peek has terrorised the lightweight division with his devastating knockout power. Like a wrecking ball, the American fighter has stormed to a 9-2-0 record with eight knockout victories. His 5’9″ frame and 70-inch reach, coupled with his deadly switch stance, make him a dangerous opponent for anyone who steps into the cage with him.
Having made a name for himself on the regional scene, Peek’s UFC debut was a resounding success, with a first-round knockout of Erick Gonzalez at UFC Fight Night: Muniz vs. Allen in February 2023. Although he has faced some setbacks, including decision losses to Chepe Mariscal and Charlie Campbell, Peek remains a force to be reckoned with in the UFC lightweight scene.
Yanal Ashmouz, on the other hand, is a well-rounded competitor with a 7-1-0 professional record. ‘The Red Fox’ is a master of both striking and grappling, capable of finishing fights in spectacular fashion. His 5’9″ frame and 68-inch reach allow him to control the distance and dictate the pace of the fight from his orthodox stance.
Ashmouz burst onto the UFC scene with a thunderous knockout of Sam Patterson at UFC 286. The Israeli’s debut victory was a jaw-dropping display of power and precision, which brought him to the limelight immediately. However, his momentum was derailed by a unanimous decision loss to Chris Duncan, where Ashmouz struggled to impose himself against a more seasoned opponent.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: September 4th, 12:00 AM (GMT)
This fight pits the striking prowess of Trevor Peek against the grappling expertise of Yanal Ashmouz, creating a classic striker versus grappler dynamic. However, both fighters have demonstrated their versatility and their ability to finish fights both on the feet and on the ground.
Peek’s strategy will be to dominate early, relying on his superior striking skills. If he can force Ashmouz into a striking exchange, Peek’s powerful punches should secure another impressive knockout. Bookmaker Pinnacle favours a Peek victory at 1.793, and it’s our recommendation too.
Best American Football Predictions This Week
The 2024 NFL season opens with a blockbuster re-match of last year’s AFC Championship Game. The Baltimore Ravens and Kansas City Chiefs clash in a mouthwatering match-up at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium on Thursday night. Here’s our top betting pick for the game.
Baltimore Ravens vs. Kansas City Chiefs – KCC -3.0 @ 2.080
The Baltimore Ravens stumbled at the final hurdle last season, losing the AFC Championship Game on home soil despite their dominant 13-4 regular season. Hungry for redemption, the Ravens aim to conquer the mountain in 2024. But the road to the summit will be anything but smooth.
The Ravens had a busy off-season as they replaced their departing running backs, Gus Edwards and J.K. Dobbins, with the bruising Derrick Henry. Meanwhile, their offensive line was decimated, losing three starters. The defence also suffered significant losses, with key players like Ronald Darby, Rock Ya-Sin, Geno Stone, Patrick Queen, Jadeveon Clowney, and Tyus Bowser finding new homes.
If they can successfully integrate their new additions and find a cohesive rhythm, the Ravens have the potential to defy expectations and compete for the Super Bowl.
The Kansas City Chiefs, reigning Super Bowl champions, conquered the 49ers in overtime to secure their second consecutive title. Their postseason run was a nail-biting affair, with three consecutive one-score victories. As the regular season kicks off, the Chiefs are eager to shake off a win-less preseason and reignite their championship flame.
The Chiefs’ off-season saw a shake-up in their secondary, with L’Jarius Sneed departing for Tennessee and Mike Edwards joining the Bills. Additionally, the offensive line lost key pieces in Donovan Smith and Nick Allegretti. To bolster their receiving corps, the Chiefs acquired Hollywood Brown and JuJu Smith-Schuster, and they also drafted the promising Xavier Worthy in the first round.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: September 4th, 12:00 AM (GMT)
These two teams will reconvene after their AFC Championship Game. Lamar Jackson’s costly interception with just over six minutes remaining sealed Baltimore’s fate, leaving them on the brink of a Super Bowl appearance. With significant turnover on both sides of the ball, John Harbaugh’s men will look to avenge their last season’s defeat.
Despite facing their own challenges, the Chiefs’ championship pedigree cannot be overlooked. In crucial moments, Patrick Mahomes’s play-making ability could prove decisive, giving the Chiefs the edge in this contest. We anticipate a close match, however, so we will take up bookmaker Pinnacle’s 2.080 offering on a -3.0 spread for Kansas.
Best Golf Prediction This Week
The DP World Tour makes its Alpine ascent this week at the picturesque Crans-sur-Sierre for the Omega European Masters. Read on for our betting preview of the tournament.
Tristan Lawrence to Win @ 17.890
With a stellar record of two wins, a second, and a third in seven starts, and as the field’s highest-ranked player at world number 26, it’s impossible to question Matt Fitzpatrick’s status as the overwhelming favourite in this tournament. Nonetheless, we believe there is sufficient reason to explore other options for the best betting opportunity.
A closer look at his 2024 record reveals that Fitz has had a relatively underwhelming year, with 5th place finishes at The Players Championship and The Memorial standing out as rare highlights.
A thumb injury at Le Golf National forced him to withdraw early from the Olympic Men’s competition last month, and although he has been back in action since, a 28th place finish at the BMW Championship in his last outing couldn’t grant him a spot at East Lake on the PGA Tour.
Fitzpatrick’s undeniable class and course record make him a potential winner. However, we are drawn to Thriston Lawrence, who offers excellent value at considerably higher odds. Lawrence’s current form and suitability for the course make him a compelling choice.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: September 4th, 12:00 AM (GMT)
Lawrence has a knack for conquering the thin air. His first three DP World Tour victories—at the Joburg Open, Crans-sur-Sierre, and the South African Open—were all achieved in challenging high-altitude conditions. The South African’s ability to adjust his game to the unique demands of these courses sets him apart.
He may have been a runner-up at the Dubai Invitational, Jonsson Workwear Open, and European Open earlier in the year, but the 27-year-old really made waves at this year’s Open Championship, where a spectacular Saturday round of 65 thrust him into the spotlight, ultimately leading to a commendable fourth place finish.
Lawrence’s recent form has been impressive, with a comfortable victory at the SunBet Challenge and a close finish at The Belfry. His ability to compete at a high level against top-class fields suggests that he has the potential to win the Omega European Masters. Bookmaker Pinnacle has Lawrence as the second favourite at odds of 17.890.
Best Rugby League Predictions This Week
NRL week 27 offers plenty of betting opportunities. With eight games on the schedule, starting with the Broncos vs. Storm match-up, we’ll provide expert analysis for three of these matches.
Brisbane Broncos vs. Melbourne Storm – Storm -15.0 @ 1.934
Broncos and Storm appeared to be on the same season trajectory when they met in round five, but the same can’t be said now as we enter the final weeks. The two teams’ fortunes have taken a dramatic turn since their previous encounter.
Just a week ago, Kevin Walters boldly declared that the Broncos were bound for the finals. However, their 40-6 humiliation against crosstown rivals, the Dolphins, has dashed those hopes. This embarrassing defeat is a bitter pill to swallow for a team with so much talent and so much at stake.
The 2023 NRL runner-ups will not get a chance to challenge for the title again, but they had an incredibly promising start to the season. A terrible mid-season slump, however, has thrown them out of the finals equation.
Melbourne, on the other hand, have capitalised on their early season brilliance and secured the minor premiership. Craig Bellamy, therefore, has the luxury to rest some key players in this fight. That said, he would also want his team to come up with a winning response after losing to North Queensland Cowboys in their last match.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: September 4th, 12:00 AM (GMT)
For both teams, this game is a battle for momentum. The Storm aim to ride their winning wave into the finals, while the Broncos seek to prove their mettle against the best. A victory here could ignite the Broncos’ spirit, fueling their preparations for next season. This seemingly meaningless match holds immense psychological significance, as it could write the script for both teams’ future.
We’re strongly backing the Storm to cover the -15.0 spread at 1.934 odds, offered by bookmaker Pinnacle.
Wests Tigers vs. Parramatta Eels – Tigers to Win @ 2.240
In a battle of cellar dwellers, the Wests Tigers and Parramatta Eels face off on Friday night at Campbelltown Sports Stadium. The stakes are high, as the loser risks claiming the unwanted ‘wooden spoon’ for the season.
The spectre of a third consecutive wooden spoon hangs heavy over Benji Marshall’s Tigers, despite their recent resurgence with back-to-back victories over Rabbitohs and Sea Eagles.
After facing a four-point deficit at halftime against the Sea Eagles, Apisai Koroisau and company staged a remarkable comeback, outscoring their opponents in a high-scoring second half.
The Eels have also turned a corner, recording impressive wins over the Warriors and Dragons, and pushing the reigning champions, Penrith, to the brink.
Their thrilling 44-40 victory over the Dragons was marred by a chaotic finish, where they conceded five tries in just 10 minutes after dominating the majority of the match.
A packed Campbelltown Stadium will provide a much-needed boost for the Tigers as they aim to build on their recent upset victory over the Sea Eagles in this season finale.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: September 4th, 12:00 AM (GMT)
Despite their recent victories, the Tigers remain underdogs according to Pinnacle’s odds. However, both teams have been on a similar run of form. The Tigers’ strong home record gives them a slight edge, especially considering their earlier victory over Parramatta. With the home crowd behind them, the Tigers have a real chance to secure another win.
South Sydney Rabbitohs vs. Sydney Roosters – Roosters -12.5 @ 1.961
The Rabbitohs and Roosters clash at Accor Stadium on Friday night. The Rabbitohs, fresh off a heavy defeat to the Panthers, face a resurgent Roosters team looking to bounce back from a stunning upset loss to the Raiders.
The visitors are reeling from a disastrous afternoon at Allianz Stadium, where they lost both Sam Walker and Brandon Smith to season-ending knee injuries and relinquished second place on the ladder to the Panthers.
The Roosters will also be without forwards Victor Radley and Nat Butcher for their clash against arch-rivals, the Rabbitohs. With their finals hopes already dashed, the Rabbitohs will be determined to deal a significant blow to their rivals’ confidence ahead of the finals with a consolation win.
The Rabbitohs’ season was derailed early on, as they suffered a crushing 48-6 defeat to their arch-rivals, the Roosters, in round three. This devastating loss, coupled with a string of nine defeats in their first 10 matches, proved to be insurmountable for the Bunnies.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: September 4th, 12:00 AM (GMT)
In essence, the Rabbitohs’ season has been a complete disaster. They are on a humiliating five-game losing streak, including a shocking defeat to the lowly Wests Tigers. As things stand, it appears that the South Sydney outfit has given up on the current campaign and are focusing on a rebuild under new head coach Wayne Bennett next season.
The Rabbitohs’ defensive woes have been laid bare this season, conceding an average of 28 points per game. Facing the attacking juggernaut that is the Roosters, the Rabbitohs face an uphill battle. We’re backing the Roosters to cover the 15-point spread with ease, and reap a healthy return from bookmaker Pinnacle.
Best Football Predictions This Week
The international break kicks off with a host of exciting matches. For our betting preview, we will analyse two UEFA Nations League fixtures and a CONMEBOL World Cup qualifier.
Portugal vs. Croatia – Both Teams to Score & Portugal to Win @ 3.710
The Iberian juggernaut Portugal and the Balkan battlers Croatia lock horns in a UEFA Nations League showdown at Estadio da Luz. These two heavyweights, expected to dominate Group A, have a history of explosive encounters, having shared 10 goals in their last two UEFA Nations League meetings.
Portugal’s Euro 2024 journey ended in yet another quarter-final heartbreak. The Selecao’s hopes were dashed by a penalty shootout defeat to France, leaving them to rue missed opportunities and the emotional farewell of veteran defender Pepe.
Portugal will be gunning for glory in the UEFA Nations League, having won the title in 2019. Cristiano Ronaldo and company, narrowly missing out on the finals in the previous edition, are determined to reclaim their crown.
Head coach Roberto Martinez, therefore, will hope to start with a victory against Croatia before Scotland comes to the Portuguese capital this weekend.
While a second place finish will be enough to progress in the current edition of the UEFA Nations League, Croatia would also eye a top-place finish.
The Croats, who had a horrendous Euro 2024 campaign, are desperate for redemption. They came agonisingly close to becoming the UEFA Nations League champions last year, before falling to Spain in the final. Croatia will be determined to start anew and take another shot at the title. An away victory against Portugal will be a big step toward that direction.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: September 4th, 12:00 AM (GMT)
Portugal, basking in the warmth of their home crowd at Estadio da Luz, should have the upper hand over their visiting rivals. Martinez, at the helm of a star-studded squad overflowing with attacking talent, has the enviable luxury of choosing from a plethora of options.
In contrast, retirements and injuries have left Croatia boss Zlatko Dalic with dwindling resources. They might have enough in their arsenal to breach the home team defence once, but Portugal should be able to outscore their opponents easily.
Given Portugal’s strength and the potential for a high-scoring match, we recommend betting on a Portugal win with both teams scoring. Pinnacle’s odds of 3.710 appears to be a deal too good to avoid.
Denmark vs. Switzerland – Draw @ 3.220
Denmark and Switzerland will clash in a UEFA Nations League showdown in Copenhagen. Both sides, fresh from their Euro 2024 knockout stage appearances, are hungry for success and aim to make a statement in Group A.
Haunted by the ghosts of Euro 2024, Denmark returns to Parken Stadion seeking redemption. The Danes, win-less in their last five matches, aim to exorcise their demons and kick-start their UEFA Nations League campaign.
Denmark’s Euro 2024 campaign was a barren wasteland, as they failed to secure a single victory in the group stage. Their meagre tally of two goals, including Morten Hjulmand’s stunning strike against England, was a stark reminder of their struggles.
The Danish FA parted ways with Kasper Hjulmand following the team’s disappointing Euro 2024 campaign. Despite leading Denmark to the Euro 2020 semi-finals and qualifying them for the 2022 World Cup, Hjulmand’s tenure ended on a sour note. The caretaker coaching team faces a daunting task in maintaining the high standards set by their predecessor.
Despite another quarter-final exit, this time at the hands of England, Switzerland’s Euro 2024 campaign was not without its highlights. Their stunning victory over defending champions Italy in Dusseldorf will be fondly remembered.
The Rossocrociati’s impressive form saw them go unbeaten in eight matches across all competitions, including victories over Hungary and draws against Scotland and Germany in the Euro 2024 group stage. Their only defeat since the last World Cup came in a penalty shootout.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: September 4th, 12:00 AM (GMT)
Switzerland have form in their favour, but they do face a tough test against a determined Denmark side on their home turf. The Danes, known for their improved performances at Parken Stadium, could secure a valuable point in this opening match.
However, without a permanent manager and their primary goal threat, Rasmus Hojlund, Denmark may struggle to contain the impressive Swiss side, who are steadily climbing the European ranks. We’re backing a draw, which is nicely priced at bookmaker Pinnacle.
Argentina vs. Chile – Argentina to Win to Nil @ 1.934
Argentina’s 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign continues as they face Chile at the iconic Estadio Mas Monumental on Thursday night local time. The Albiceleste, currently atop the South American standings, face a stern test against La Roja, who are battling to stay in the qualification race.
The world champions return to home soil for the first time since their historic Copa America final triumph over Colombia. Argentina, having secured their 16th Copa title in dramatic fashion, will be greeted by a roaring crowd at Estadio Mas Monumental.
Lionel Scaloni, the mastermind behind Argentina’s recent triumphs, has led the Albiceleste to glory at three consecutive major tournaments. His impressive 71.4% win rate has cemented his status as one of the most successful international managers of all time. With a strong start in CONMEBOL qualifying, Argentina is well-positioned to secure their place at the 2026 World Cup.
A victory against Chile will bring them a step closer to the 2026 showpiece event in North America. The Chilieans are no strangers to them, of course, as they had met in the Copa America group stages only a few months back. Argentina had the last laugh then in a 1-0 affair.
Chile, desperate to return to the world stage after a 12 year absence, has struggled to gain momentum in CONMEBOL qualifying. With just one win and five losses in their first six matches, La Roja faces an uphill battle to secure their place at the 2026 World Cup.
Defeating Peru in their third match is the only victory they can show for their efforts so far. Another defeat will make the challenge even more intimidating.
※ Current Odds Date & Time: September 4th, 12:00 AM (GMT)
Argentina will be without their mercurial captain Lionel Messi, but they still have enough firepower in their squad to get past a struggling Chile side. We believe they will be able to do so without letting Chile score.
The Best Bets to Make This Week
Navigate the betting landscape with ease as we guide you to the most lucrative sports wagers. Here’s a brief recap of our handpicked selection of enticing bets you can consider for this week’s sporting events:
- Falcons to win the International 2024 @ 3.830
- Trevor Peek to beat Yanal Ashmouz @ 1.793
- Baltimore Ravens vs. Kansas City Chiefs – KCC -3.0 @ 2.080
- Tristan Lawrence to win Omega European Masters @ 17.890
- Brisbane Broncos vs. Melbourne Storm – Storm -15.0 @ 1.934
- Wests Tigers vs. Parramatta Eels – Tigers to win @ 2.240
- South Sydney Rabbitohs vs. Sydney Roosters – Roosters -12.5 @ 1.961
- Portugal vs. Croatia – Both teams to score & Portugal to win @ 3.710
- Denmark vs. Switzerland – draw @ 3.220
- Argentina vs. Chile – Argentina to win to nil @ 1.934
There you have it! These are the best sports wagers to pursue this week. We would particularly recommend going for a Tristan Lawrence win at Omega European Masters. The South African is the second favourite choice, but he offers an incredibly high return.
