Odds Alpha #7
A difficult week last week on the betting front but a hugely exciting one in terms of sport, with Ireland being crowned Grand Slam Champions at the Six Nations in a World Cup year. The no. 1 ranked side in the world started in a nervy fashion but ultimately were too strong for the visiting England side, even if slightly helped by an unfortunate red card for England full back Freddie Steward.
In the Premier League, our double was just undone by an Everton equaliser at the death as the hosts failed to cling onto a 2-1 lead. Chelsea really are looking like an average side this season and can’t seem to string together more than two decent games. Arsenal, on the other hand, went odds on in the title race as they racked a 4-1 victory against Crystal Palace. Having once looked as if they may fade in the race to become champions, Arsenal have shown true grit and determination to recover and stamp their authority.
Tennis
This week, we have the ATP Miami taking place, with some big names in action over the next couple of days, including both Andy Murray and Dominic Thiem. It is incredible to think how far Thiem has fallen in the rankings over the past couple of years, having once been ranked no. 3 in the world. He will line up against Lorenzo Sonego on Wednesday, who I think can give him the beating here. Sonego went close against Zverev recently and that form should be too good for Thiem in his current state.
The Selection: Lorenzo Sonego - 3.0 (Handicap)
Details: Wednesday 22nd March
Link: bet here
Soccer
With the Premier League taking a break this weekend, we are blessed with a round of the European Championship instead. Italy vs. England catches the eye on Thursday evening, a rematch of the enthralling Euro Final of 2020 (that was played in 2021), in which Italy were crowned champions on penalties. Although I am predicting a cagey affair here, with both sides not having come together for a while, Italy seem too big a price at 2.78 with a strong previous record against England.
The Selection: Italy to WIN vs. England @ 2.78
Details: Thursday 23rd March
Link: bet here
Rugby
On Friday evening, France vs. Netherlands has the potential to be another special fixture, with France narrowly touched off as World Cup Champions in Qatar as Lionel Messi made history in a penalty shootout win for Argentina. France will be looking to get their Euro qualifying campaign off to a good start here and, with a strong recent home record and superiority in recent meetings between these two sides, I expect France to win nicely.
The Selection: France to WIN - 1.5 goals (handicap)
The Details: Friday 24th March
Link: bet here
Golf
Carrying into the weekend, the WGC Dell Matchplay Golf will draw the attention of golf fans across the globe. Scottie Scheffler, last year’s champion, has looked in a different league this season. 8/1 probably doesn’t limit his chances of winning here and I wouldn’t put anyone off backing him even as the pre-tournament favourite. However, I am happy to stick my neck out here on a player who is built for this competition…Kevin Kisner was runner up in both 2018 and 2022’s editions, as well as picking up a win in 2019. He has had a torrid time on the course this season, but this tournament could be exactly what he needs to spark a return to form. He can currently be backed at as big as 125/1, which I think is just too big.
Good luck to all, wherever you are betting this weekend!