Germany vs Brazil. Betting Match Preview - Tuesday 27th March 2018, International Friendly, Olympiastadion, Berlin. Live on BT Sport 2, Kick-Off: 19:45 GMT.

Germany vs Brazil
Tuesday 27th March 2018
International Friendly, Olympiastadion, Berlin

Live on BT Sport 2, Kick-Off: 19:45 GMT

Germany vs Brazil – The World Champions Germany face Brazil for the first time since the humiliating 7-1 demolishing for the hosts at the semi-finals of that World Cup in 2014.

That was one of, if not the darkest time in Brazilian football history, alongside the Maracanazo. Tite’s Brazil side are a completely different prospect. A repeat of anything similar whatsoever result-wise is surely out of the question.

Selecao blitzed through the South American qualifying campaign for Russia, winning the group by 10 points and only losing once. Those dominant 18 games, including a 3-0 victory over rivals Argentina, now see Brazil 2nd in the FIFA World Rankings.

However, they will up against the World’s best team according to those same standings. Germany have always been a powerhouse in the world game, and in the last decade have improved yet again.
Joachim Low’s World Champions also won the Confederations Cup last summer with a completely second-string team. The strength of depth at die Mannschaft’s disposal is frightening.

This match will see Germany’s preparations to retain their World Cup in full flow. There are undoubtedly still places up for grabs and a showing against Brazil could well stake that claim.

Despite drawing their last three matches, including the 1-1 draw with Spain last time out and a stalemate against England, Germany are now on an astounding 22-match unbeaten run – stretching all the way back to their defeat against France in the semi-finals of the 2016 European Championships.
Brazil too are in imperious form. They have lost only once in their last 18 – 1-0 to Argenina – and won 14 of those fixtures.

This really is the creme de la creme of international friendlies. Some of the world’s finest players on display. Despite no Neymar due to injury, Phillipe Coutinho, Thomas Muller, Marcelo, Tony Kroos, Casemiro, Marc-Andre ter Stegen and many more elite players will take to the field.

The two most fancied sides to claim football’s ultimate prize. The two highest ranked, and justifiably so, teams on the planet. There is a rich history, and a point of vengeance intertwined. A friendly match that doesn’t need to be talked up, but it is very easy to do so. What a match we have in store.

Jonas Eriksson will be the man tasked with controlling this game. Normally found in the Allsvenskan, the Swedish referee has also taken charge of three Champions League fixtures this season. Most notably,  dishing out two red cards in the bizarre Porto 5-2 Monaco game in the group stage.

Eriksson also gave out marching orders in his last international, Scotland’s 2-2 draw with Slovenia that saw the end of their World Cup qualification hopes. More recently, officiating Man City’s 4-0 drubbing of Basel in Switzerland, and Arsenal’s 3-1 home victory to Italian giants AC Milan in the Europa League, giving out four and five yellows in each game respectively.

Germany vs Brazil will be televised in the UK on BT Sport 2 with kick-off at 19:45 GMT.

Prediction: Germany 1-1 Brazil

In line with Germany’s recent results, a draw with both forceful attacks finding a breakthrough.

Suggested tips – Germany vs Brazil – (SKYBET):

  • Correct score, 1-1 Draw – 5/1.
  • RequestABet Specials Up to 10/1 – Germany v Brazil – BTTS and 4+ corners each team – 5/2 (NAP).
  • Price Boost – Toni Kroos to score and Germany to win in 90 mins – 10/1.
  • Price Boost – Leroy Sane to score from outside the penalty area – 22/1.
  • RequestABet Specials 80/1 and above – BTTS in both halves and 15+ match corners – 80/1.
  • RequestABet Specials 80/1 and above – Germany vs Brazil – Willian to score, Brazil to win, 7+ Germany corners and 20+ Brazil booking points – 66/1.

Odds and markets last updated on 27 March 2018 @17:50 GMT.

Keep visiting the tips and preview area for further updates and betting previews for more previews from the International break this week. We also have domestic fixtures returning at the end of the week so keep an eye on those previews in the tips and preview area.

England vs Italy. Betting Match Preview, Friday 23rd March 2018, International Friendly, Wembley Stadium . Live on ITV 1, Kick-Off: 20:00 GMT.

England vs Italy
Friday 23rd March 2018
International Friendly, Wembley Stadium 

Live on ITV 1, Kick-Off: 20:00 GMT

England vs Italy: England will be hoping to back up their victory over Holland on Friday night with a win against Italy.

Gareth Southgate’s men came out triumphant in Amsterdam, with Jesse Lingard grabbing the only goal of the match. The Manchester United forward divides opinion in England but there is no doubting his habit of scoring important goals in crucial games. In the absence of Harry Kane, Southgate gave Marcus Rashford the nod down the middle, alongside Lingard and Raheem Sterling. The three combined well throughout the match, with their pace and fluidity causing issues for the Dutch backline.

Southgate also sprung a surprise in defence. Kyle Walker began the game as right-centre back, with Keiran Trippier at right-wing back. The former Sheffield United man played at the heart of the defence during his stint at Bramall Lane. It proved to be another viable option for Southgate as he looks to mould his World Cup starting 11 for Russia. Jordan Pickford also impressed as he staked his claim for number one jersey. A clean sheet and composed performance will certainly have done the Everton stoppers chances no harm.

Italy suffered a 2-0 defeat to Argentina on Friday night. After failing to qualify for this summer’s World Cup, the Italy squad is starting a new dawn. With a new generation of Italian talent coming through, it will be the next permanent boss’ job to turn them into a success. Luigi Di Biagio has been given temporary charge of Azzurri having been promoted from the U21s.

England’s have won one of their last seven matches against Italy. That win came in a friendly back in 2012 with Jermain Defoe grabbing the winner. This will be the Italian’s third visit to the new Wembley as they seek their first win on English soil since 2002.

With both these two teams very much in transition, it could be an interesting matchup. The England camp, however, will be much more positive after their victory on Friday night. Therefore, I think they’ll nick the game but I expect it to be a tight contest.

England vs Italy will be televised live in the UK on ITV 1 with kick-off at 20:00 GMT.

Prediction: England 1-0 Italy.

Suggested tips – England vs Italy (SKYBET):

  • Correct score, England to win 1-0 – 9/2.
  • Vardy to score and win – 5/2.
  • Sterling and Immobile to both score – 8/1.
  • England to win by exactly one goal – 11/4.
  • BTTS and under 2.5 goals – 9/2.

Odds and markets last updated on 27 March 2018 @16:50 GMT.

Keep visiting the tips and preview area for further updates and betting previews for more previews from the International break this week. We also have domestic fixtures returning at the end of the week so keep an eye on those previews in the tips and preview area.

Hungary vs Scotland. Betting Match Preview, Wednesday 27th March 2018, International Friendly, Groupama Arena. Live on Sky Sports Football. Kick-Off: 19:00 GMT.

Hungary vs Scotland
Wednesday 27th March 2018
International Friendly, Groupama Arena

Live on Sky Sports Football. Kick-Off: 19:00 GMT

Hungary vs Scotland: New Scotland boss Alex McLeish will be looking for his first win as manager when he takes on Hungary at the Groupama Arena.

After taking over for his second stint as Scotland boss, McLeish suffered defeat to Costa Rica on Friday. The former Aston Villa boss has been tasked with turning Scotland’s fortunes around, having not qualified for yet another major tournament. Like a number of national sides, Scotland are one in transition. A number of experienced professionals have come to the end their careers, with new young talent emerging. It’s McLeish’s job to integrate them into his side as they hope to qualify for Euro 2020.

The defeat to Costa Rica saw a formation change as McLeish set his side up in a 3-4-3 system. With Andrew Robertson and Callum Paterson given license to attack as wing-backs, it offers Scotland a new dimension. It also offers more freedom for players such as Matt Richie and Tom Cairney to create chances for their strikers. Swansea striker Ollie McBurnie was given his debut after an impressive loan spell at Barnsley. This was just a signal of what is to come, with more young talent being afforded a chance to appear for their country. They also handed Scott McTominay his first start after he pleaded his allegiance to Scotland.

Despite impressing at the Euros in 2016, Hungary failed to qualify for the World Cup. George Leekens’ side missed out after finishing third in a group containing both Portugal and Switzerland. Whilst this won’t be a surprise to most, it was a disappointing qualifying campaign for the Hungarians and they will seek improvement ahead of Euro 2020. A more favourable group could have definitely seen them qualify for Russia and they will be a stern test for Scotland.

Both these teams come into this game in poor form. Hungary have won two of their last six matches, whilst Scotland have lost their last two. This will be the two sides’ first meeting since 2004, which ended in a 3-0 Hungary win. Scotland have never won beaten Hungary away from home, so this could be a potential milestone for the Scots.

Neither side is in fantastic form. Therefore, I think a draw could be on the cards. Thus, this would be a positive result for Scotland as they look to rebuild their new young squad.

Hungary vs Scotland will be televised live in the UK on Sky Sports Football with kick off at 19:00 GMT.

Prediction: Hungary 1-1 Scotland.

Suggested tips – Hungary vs Scotland – (SKYBET):

  • Correct score, draw 1-1- 9/2. 
  • McBurnie to score in 90 mins – 9/4.
  • Hungary to win and BTTS – 5/1.
  • Bode and Cummings to both score – 17/2.
  • Scotland to win 1-0, 2-0 or 2-1 – 5/2.
  • Hungary to score first – 1/1.

Odds and markets last updated on 27 March 2018 @16:50 GMT.

Keep visiting the tips and preview area for further updates and betting previews for more previews from the International break this week. We also have domestic fixtures returning at the end of the week so keep an eye on those previews in the tips and preview area.

Wales vs Uruguay. Betting Match Preview, Monday 26th March 2018, China Cup Final, Guangxi Sports Center.Live on S4C TV, Kick-Off: 12:35 GMT (19:35 Local Time).

Wales vs Uruguay
Monday 26th March 2018
China Cup Final, Guangxi Sports Center

Live on S4C TV, Kick-Off: 12:35 GMT (19:35 Local) 

Wales v Uruguay – Ryan Giggs’ Wales will face Uruguay in the Final of the China Cup to see who lifts the second iteration of the international trophy.

Wales blitzed through their semi-final against China last time out, demolishing the hosts 6-0. Gareth Bale, as ever, was the star man, scoring a hat-trick to overtake Ian Rush as Wales’ record goal-scorer.

Further strikes from Liverpool’s Harry Wilson, making his full debut, and a brace from Sam Vokes sealed the impressive victory. Ryan Giggs will have been delighted with his team’s display in his first foray into permanent management.

Chile won the first ever China Cup last year, defeating Nordic surprise packages Iceland 1-0 in the Final. Uruguay will be hoping to continue the South American success and claim the title too this time out.

Oscar Tabarez’s side bested Czech Republic in their semi-final, winning 2-0 courtesy of goals from Edison Cavani and Luis Suarez. The Barcelona striker reached a half-century of international goals in the process, a wonderful achievement.

This still seems to be somewhat of a golden generation for Uruguay. After winning the Copa America in 2011 and reaching the last four of the World Cup the year before they are still a huge threat to all that face them, spearheaded by an astonishing attack force of world-class talent in Cavani and Suarez. Add to the mix one of the game’s best defenders in captain Diego Godin and fellow Atletico Madrid centre-back Jose Maria Gimenez and the core to the team is impressive.

In Wales’ case, victory in this tournament does not make up for failing to qualify for the 2018 World Cup. However, it presents the opportunity to instil a winning culture in his team to take forward for the foreseeable future.

Uruguay will equally want to claim the title to further solidify themselves as a nation with winning pedigree.

Both teams can expect a much more difficult challenge than they experienced in the last round. The game is likely to be tight, as both teams normally build from a solid platform. As often seems to the case in international football, it could well come down to a moment of magic from the star players at the top of the pitch. Cavani, for instance, is having another outstanding season at PSG, already having bagged 33 goals this campaign.

Any opportunity to see El Classico rivals Luis Suarez and Gareth Bale on the same pitch is one that shouldn’t be missed. As international breaks go, this game is as intriguing as it gets. The very least both managers can expect from this is a truer understanding of where their teams are at.

Prediction: Wales 1-2 Uruguay

With the array of attacking talent on show, both teams should score with Uruguay’s firepower ultimately carrying them home.

Suggested tips – Wales vs Uruguay – (SKYBET):

  • Correct score, 1-2 Uruguay – 15/2.
  • Price Boost – Luis Suarez and Gareth Bale both to score – 7/1.
  • RequestABet Specials 80/1 and above – Cavani to score a header, Bale to score outside the area – 150/1.
  • RequestABet Specials Up to 10/1 – BTTS and 4+ corners each team – 7/2.
  • RequestABet Specials 80/1 and above – Suarez and Cavani to score, Vokes and Allen to be carded – 200/1.

Odds and markets last updated on 26 March 2018 @11:50 GMT.

Keep visiting the tips and preview area for further updates and betting previews for more previews from the International break this week. We also have domestic fixtures returning at the end of the week so keep an eye on those previews in the tips and preview area.

Germany vs Spain. Betting Match Preview, Friday 23rd March 2018, International Friendly, Esprit Arena. Live on BT Sport 3, Kick-Off: 19:45 GMT.

Germany vs Spain
Friday 23rd March 2018
International Friendly, Esprit Arena

Live on BT Sport 3, Kick-Off: 19:45 GMT

The international break is upon us and we have been treated to a jam packed long weekend of football. Possibly the most enticing match up will be this one, Germany vs Spain.

The two most recent World Cup winners will test and flex their muscle in the lead up to the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

International friendlies provide a great chance for managers to try out in form players and different formations. Both these sides like to dominate possession and the tempo of the match. Both also have an arsenal of world class players who can steal the spotlight.

This match will be the first meeting between these two countries since November 2014 where Germany ran out narrow 1-0 winners.

The hosts will be hoping to keep up their impressive 21 game unbeaten run this Friday. Joachim Low’s side are extremely clinical in attack and have scored 61 goals in this unbeaten run. The German side does not have one fresh face or uncapped player amongst their ranks. Leon Goreztka will be one to look out for as he is returning from injury. Thomas Muller, Mesut Ozil and Leroy Sane are just a few of the talents that will be featuring in a German shirt this Friday. The bookmakers are slightly favouring the Germans for this tie.

The visitors will see this friendly as a great opportunity to build for the summer tournament. Their players have been sublime during their club campaigns this season however in the past couple seasons they have struggled a little more to gel all their talents together. Chelsea’s Marco Alonso has earned his first senior side call up however his Chelsea teammate Alvaro Morata has been left out. Premier League star David De Gea will feature as well as ex Chelsea striker Diego Costa.

All this attacking firepower should make for an interesting encounter. In the 22 previous meetings between Germany and Spain, there has only ever been one goal less draw. However, amazingly both sides have only scored more than twice in only one of those meetings.

Germany vs Spain will be televised on BT Sport 3 in the UK and will kick off at 19:45pm.

Prediction: 1-1 draw.

Suggested tips – Germany vs Spain – (SKYBET):

  • Correct score, 1-1 Draw – 5/1.
  • RequestABet Specials Up to 10/1 – BTTS and 4+ corners each team – 7/4.
  • RequestABet Specials 80/1 and above –  Werner & Ramos to score a header – 200/1.
  • Scorecast Boost: Leroy Sane to score first and Germany win 2-0 – 80/1.
  • RequestABet Specials Up to 10/1 – BTTS and 3+ corners each team – 11/10.

Odds and markets last updated on 23 March 2018 @17:25 GMT.

Keep visiting the tips and preview area for further updates and betting previews for more previews from the International break.

Netherlands vs England, Betting Match Preview, Friday 23rd March 2018, International Friendly, Johan Cruyff Arena. Live on ITV, Kick-Off: 19:45 GMT.

Netherlands vs England
Friday 23rd March 2018
International Friendly, Johan Cruyff Arena

Live on ITV, Kick-Off: 19:45 GMT

Netherlands vs England – England take a trip to the Netherlands as they face Holland in a friendly ahead of the upcoming World Cup in Russia.

Gareth Southgate will shape his England squad for Russia in the three lions’ upcoming matches. Whilst there are a few players missing out through injury, a large portion of this squad still have to prove their worth. The goalkeeping department has, in particular, been an area under scrutiny. Consequently, Burnley goalkeeper Nick Pope earned his first call-up for these games after an impressive season in the Clarets’ net. The number one spot is up for grabs after Joe Hart’s poor form at West Ham, with Jordan Pickford and Jack Butland the main two contenders. I personally believe Southgate will opt for the Stoke stopper to guard England’s goal.

Whilst many speculating on England’s formation for the upcoming tournament, I expect Southgate to stick with his preferred 3-4-3 formation. The England manager has already intimated he will use Eric Dier in the back three for these matches, a position he has played for Spurs previously. Alfie Mawson and James Tarkowski have both been given a chance to impress following their first call-ups. More experience defenders Gary Cahill and Chris Smalling left out. Upfront, Marcus Rashford and Jamie Vardy have the chance to stake their claim for the World Cup with Harry Kane absent through injury.

Despite not qualifying for this summer’s competition, Holland have won their last five games. Having missed the last two major tournaments, new manager Ronald Koeman has been tasked with running the country’s fortunes around. They finished level on points with Sweden in group A but missed out on goal difference. With a number of up and coming young players in their ranks, the future looks bright for Dutch football. Virgil van Dijk should captain the side alongside Stefan De Vrij, whilst Quincy Promes, Bas Dost and youngster Justin Kluivert will be expected to cause England problems in attack.

Jesus Gil Manzano will referee the clash on Friday night. The Spaniard plies his trade in La Liga, where he has averaged 5.87 cards per game across 15 league matches. This consists of 86 yellow cards and one red, which therefore means booking points could be a good option for Friday’s game.

Without Harry Kane, England will be looking for Rashford to step up to the plate. Holland also pose a threat and will want to prove their worth under a new manager. Thus, I think this will end in a draw, with neither team wanting to lose the game.

Netherlands vs England will be televised live in the UK on ITV with kick off at 19:45 GMT.

Prediction: Netherlands 1-1 England.

Suggested tips(Skybet):

  • Correct score, draw 1-1 – 9/2.
  • Rashford to score first and England to win 2-1 – 40/1.
  • Promes and Vardy to both score – 17/2.
  • Depay and Sterling to have 1+shot on target each – 6/4.
  • Dost to score and win – 3/1.

Odds and markets last updated on 23 March 2018 @17:35 GMT.

Keep visiting the tips and preview area for further updates and betting previews for more previews from the International break.

Scotland vs Costa Rica, Betting Match Preview, Friday 23rd March 2018, International Friendly, Hampden Park. Kick-Off: 19:45 GMT.

Scotland vs Costa Rica
Friday 23rd March 2018
International Friendly, Hampden Park

Live on Sky Sports Football, Kick-Off: 19:45 GMT

Scotland vs Costa Rica – Scotland will still be feeling the heartache of not reaching the 2018 World Cup in Russia as they narrowly missed out on qualification on goal difference. Their late impressive surge was not enough as they conceded 5 more goals than World Cup qualifiers, Slovakia. Meanwhile, Costa Rica are on a high and preparing for Russia as they qualified in second place in the North and Central American group.

The two nations have only met once before back in 1990 where Costa Rica won 1-0. Both sides were also unsuccessful in their previous outings by the same score line. Scotland lost to the Netherlands and Costa Rica lost to Hungary.

The match will also mark Alex McLeish’s second reign as Scotland manager following Gordon Strachan’s departure. Another big change in the Scotland camp will come in midfield after Scott Brown announced his retirement from international football.

The hosts are favourites for this encounter despite being to team who did not qualify for the World Cup. They have also welcomed a flurry of fresh faces to their camp, with Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay carrying the most expectation on his young shoulders. He is joined by Barnsley striker, Oli McBurnie, who has been firing off on all cylinders since his loan spell began. Alex McLeish’s side will want to make a statement and build on their impressive end to last year in the qualifying campaign.

The visitors will be preparing for the World Cup and this fixture provides a final chance to try out new things. The most successful central American nation in history have some real talents amongst their ranks for Fridays fixture. Real Madrid goalkeeper Keylor Navas will provide a very tough opponent for the Scots between the sticks. Meanwhile Bryan Ruiz and Marco Urena will be hoping to light up the Costa Rican attack with their combined 167 caps.

A big loss for Costa Rica is the absence of Real Betis loanee Joel Campbell. The experienced international is still nursing an ankle injury and will be a big miss for the central American outfit.

Scotland vs Costa Rica will be televised on Sky Sports Football in the UK and will kick off at 19:45 GMT.

Prediction: 1-0 Scotland.

Suggested tips – Scotland vs Costa Rica – (SKYBET):

  • Correct score, 1-0 Scotland – 5/1.
  • Scorecast Boost: Matt Richie to score first and Scotland win 2-1 – 80/1.
  • RequestABet Specials Up to 10/1 – Scotland to Score 2+ Goals and 5+ Scotland Corners – 5/2.
  • RequestABet Specials Up to 10/1 – BTTS and over 2.5 goals – 7/2.

Odds and markets last updated on 23 March 2018 @17:25 GMT.

Keep visiting the tips and preview area for further updates and betting previews for more previews from the International break.

 

Turkey vs Republic of Ireland, Betting Match Preview, Friday 23rd March 2018, International Friendly, Antalya Stadium. Kick-Off: 17:30 GMT.

Turkey vs Republic of Ireland
Friday 23rd March 2018
International Friendly, Antalya Stadium 

Kick-Off: 17:30 GMT

Turkey vs Republic of Ireland – The international break is in full swing and The Republic of Ireland travel to Turkey looking to steady the ship after narrowly missing out on the 2018 World Cup.

Ireland’s side heroic victory over Wales in Cardiff propelled them into the World Cup play-offs. However, that ended in dismay after a Christian Eriksen-inspired Denmark dismantled Martin O’Neill’s side 5-1 in the crucial match.

O’Neill kept his job, and the planning for the 2020 European Championships has begun. With just 37 international goals in the entire squad for this match (17 coming just from Shane Long), the future is very much at the forefront here. Especially considering call-ups for players like West Ham’s Declan Rice and Aston Villa’s Scott Hogan.

Turkey had a World Cup qualifying campaign to forget, finishing fourth in Group I behind Iceland, Croatia and Ukraine. They have also lost their last two friendlies 2-0 to Romania and perhaps more worrying 3-2 at home to Albania.

Now under the leadership of Shakhtar Donestsk legend Mircea Lucescu a change in fortunes will be expected. Quality players such as Borussia Dortmund’s Omer Toprak and AC Milan’s Hakan Calhanoglu can lead the way to doing so.

With just seven places in the FIFA World Rankings separating these two teams (Ireland 31st, Turkey 38th) a close game should be in store. O’Neill has The Green Army renowned for their solidity, whilst Turkey usually play a more expansive game. This clash of styles could lead to a very interesting exchange. A moment of magic from a player like Calhanoglu or Celta Vigo’s on-loan wonderkid Emre Mor could make the difference.

Slavko Vincic will be the man in charge for this one. The Slovenian officiates in his native country but has also refereed in European competition this season. In eight Prva Liga games he has given 38 yellows cards, one red and two penalties. In the four Champions League and Europa League matches at the helm, he has dished out 19 yellow cards. Vincic’s average cards per game is therefore a very high 4.75. Those European matches include Tottenham Hotspur’s 3-0 victory against Apoel Nicosa and Borussia Dortmund’s 2-1 defeat to RB Salzburg.

Prediction: Turkey 1-1 Republic of Ireland

With Turkey finding their feet under Lucescu, Ireland should have enough stability to resist Turkey’s attacking forces. Typically, it would be somewhat surprising if they found enough of their own to secure the win.

Suggested tips – Turkey vs Republic of Ireland – (SKYBET):

  • Correct score, 1-1 Draw – 5/1.
  • Popular RequestABet – Suarez to score and Uruguay 2-0 – 11/1.
  • RequestABet Specials 80/1 and above – BTTS, 2+ corners each team in each half and 20+ booking points each team – 80/1.
  • Price Boost – Luis Suarez and Gareth Bale both to score – 7/1.
  • RequestABet Specials 80/1 and above – Suarez and Cavani to score, Vokes and Allen to be carded – 200/1.
  • Both Players to Score – Edison Cavani and Luis Suarez – 3/1.

Odds and markets last updated on 26 March 2018 @11:50 GMT.

Keep visiting the tips and preview area for further updates and betting previews for more previews from the International break this week. We also have domestic fixtures returning at the end of the week so keep an eye on those previews in the tips and preview area.

Leicester City vs Chelsea. Betting Match Preview, Sunday 18th March 2018, FA Cup Quarter-Final, King Power Stadium. Live on BBC 1 – Kick-Off: 16:30.

Leicester City vs Chelsea
Sunday 18th March 2018
FA Cup Quarter-Final, King Power Stadium

Live on BBC 1 – Kick-Off: 16:30

Leicester vs Chelsea: Chelsea travel to Leicester in the FA Cup looking to bounce back from their midweek defeat to Barcelona.

Chelsea’s defeat at the Nou Camp ended their hopes of a second ever Champions League title. The FA Cup is now their only hope for silverware. With the race for the top four hotting up, it’s crucial that they don’t slip up. They returned to winning ways in the league with a comfortable victory over Crystal Palace last weekend. Willian continued his fine form in front of goal by opening the scoring at Stamford Bridge. The Brazilian has scored five goals in his last five games. He has also opened the scoring in all five of those games, showing he is good value for first goalscorer.

Chelsea have lost their last four away games. If Antonio Conte’s men want to finish in the top four they need to address their poor form on the road. The Italian needs to make the Champions harder to beat; a task he excelled at last year on the way to the title. They are only four points adrift off fourth place and if they can rediscover some form I still fancy them to secure a Champions League spot come the end of the campaign.

After a poor run of results, Leicester returned to winning ways at the weekend in emphatic style. The Foxes secured a 4-1 at West Brom, which was in no part thanks to Jamie Vardy’s spectacular equaliser. From there on Claude Puel’s side dominated the game and took home all three points. With Vardy and Riyad Mahrez in the side, Leicester will always cause problems. The two linked up again superbly at the weekend, a theme that Leicester fans have come accustomed to seeing.

Craig Pawson is the referee for this game, fresh from officiating Manchester United vs Liverpool last week. The Englishman has the highest average booking points total in the league. He has issued 33 yellow cards and four reds, giving him a total of 41.1 per game. He has been allocated some of the biggest games this season, which proves he is one of the league’s best young officials.

This game is quite tough to call. Leicester have provided many upsets in recent years, not least winning the league itself. Therefore, I’m going to plump for a draw.

Leicester City vs Chelsea will be televised live in the UK on BBC One with kick-off at 16:30 GMT.

Prediction: Leicester 1-1 Chelsea

Suggested tips – Leicester City vs Chelsea – (BET365):

  • Correct score, draw 1-1- (link no longer available).
  • Willian to score first – (link no longer available).

Suggested tips – Leicester City vs Chelsea – (SKYBET):

  • Vardy and Hazard to both score – 6/1.
  • Chelsea to win by exactly one goal- 11/4.
  • RequestABet Specials up to 10/1 – BTTS, 1+ corners each team in each half and 10+ booking points each team – 2/1.
  • Popular Request A Bets – BTTS, 2+ corners each team in each half and 10+ booking points each team – 13/2.
  • BTTS, 8+ match corners and 40+ match booking ptsRequestABet Specials Up to 10/1 – Leicester v Chelsea – 5/2.
  • Match Stat Price Boost – Vardy and Willian – 2+ Shots on Target each – 14/1.
  • RequestABet Specials 80/1 and above – Leicester v Chelsea – Mahrez & Willian to score from outside the area – 150/1.
  • RequestABet Specials 80/1 and above – Leicester v Chelsea – Morata to score a header and Mahrez to score from outside the area – 125/1.
  • @FootyAccums RequestABet – Vardy to score, Chelsea to win and 4+ corners in each half – 11/1.
  • RequestABet Specials Up to 10/1 – Leicester vs Chelsea  – BTTS, 1+ corners each team in each half and 10+ booking points each team – 2/1.
  • RequestABet Specials Up to 10/1 – Leicester vs Chelsea – BTTS, 4+ corners each team and 10+ booking points each team – 11/4.

Odds and markets last updated on 18 March 2018 @09:45 GMT. Markets will be updated prior to kick off so keep checking back before 16:30 GMT for updates.

Keep visiting the tips and preview area for further updates and betting previews for more previews from this weekends FA Cup and SkyBet Championship action.

Wigan Athletic vs Southampton. Betting Match Preview, Sunday 18th March 2018, FA Cup Quarter-Final, DW Stadium. Live on BBC 1 – Kick-Off: 13:30.

Wigan Athletic vs Southampton
Sunday 18th March 2018
FA Cup Quarter-Final, DW Stadium

Live on BBC 1 – Kick-Off: 13:30

Wigan Athletic vs Southampton – Mark Hughes’ first test as Southampton manager is to beat League One underdogs Wigan Athletic in the FA Cup Quarter-Final.

Hughes was named as Mauricio Pellegrino’s successor after Southampton’s 3-0 defeat to Newcastle last time out. The Argentine endured a difficult first season as a manager in English football, taking Southampton dangerously close to the relegation zone.

Hughes himself lost his job at Stoke for doing the same thing, but the Welshman seems the right fit to take The Saints out of trouble. He even played there for two years between 1998-2000, so has an ‘affinity’ in his own words.

Southampton have had a turbulent season, with just five wins only West Brom (three) have won less games in the Premier League. However, the FA Cup represents a wonderful opportunity for Southampton to win their first major trophy since winning this competition in 1976.

Wigan are the opposition, who already are writing their own script in this season’s FA Cup. Toppling Pep Guardiola’s all-conquering Manchester City side in the last round sent shockwaves through football.

Paul Cook’s side are having an excellent campaign in general, sitting in 2nd place, five points from Blackburn Rovers. The Latics do, however, have three games in hand in their quest to return to the Championship.

Goals decide games, and that’s exactly where Southampton have struggled this season. They have only scored 29 in the league, and only scored two or more six times. Only Swansea and West Brom have failed to reach that feat in fewer games (five). Wigan have scored two+ on 18 occasions, so it is just a case of whether they can replicate that against higher quality opposition.

This match will represent everything that the FA Cup is about. Two teams, generally unfancied, where one of them will make it to a Wembley semi-final. Where dreams are made.

Michael Oliver has been chosen to referee this one. No one has taken charge of more Premier League games than Oliver this year (25), and he has the second highest average booking points per game in the division with 39.8.

Wigan Athletic vs Southampton will be televised live in the UK on BBC One with kick-off at 13:30 GMT.

Prediction: Wigan 1-3 Southampton

Suggested tips – Wigan Athletic vs Southampton – (BET365):

  • Correct score, 3-1 Southampton win – (link no longer available).
  • Southampton/Southampton HT/FT betting – (link no longer available).

Suggested tips – Wigan Athletic vs Southampton – (SKYBET):

  • RequestABet Up To 10/1 Specials – Over 1.5 goals, 3+ corners each team and 30+ match booking pts – 13/8.
  • Scorecast Boost (Double Chance) – Manolo Gabbiadini to score first and either Southampton to win 2-0 or Southampton to win 3-0 – 25/1.
  • RequestABet Up To 10/1 Specials – Southampton to score 2+ Goals, 5+ Corners and Wigan 20+ Booking Points – 5/1.
  • Price Boosts – Wigan v Southampton – Manolo Gabbiadini and Dusan Tadic both to score in 90 mins – 10/1.
  • RequestABet Specials 80/1 and above – Wigan vs Southampton – Gabbiadini to score, 7+ Wigan corners, Lemina to be carded and Under 50 match booking points – 80/1.
  • RequestABet Specials Up to 10/1 – Wigan v Southampton – Wigan to score 2+ goals, 5+ Wigan corners and 20+ Southampton booking pts – 11/1.

Odds and markets last updated on 18 March 2018 @09:45 GMT.

Keep visiting the tips and preview area for further updates and betting previews for more previews from this weekends FA Cup and SkyBet Championship action.