12:30 - Sunderland v Millwall
The first EFL Championship game to take place after the 2022 FIFA World Cup is Saturday’s intriguing matchup at the Stadium of Light between Sunderland and Millwall. Both teams are looking to return to action with a win. The Lions occupy a place in the Championship play-offs right now and are in good form, while the Black Cats are down in 15th.
Sunderland have made a mixed return to the Championship. They have won seven, lost seven and drawn six so far, struggling with injuries at times. Before the break, the Mackems picked up a much-needed win at Birmingham City. Millwall won at Preston North End in their last game, and Gary Rowett’s side have suffered just one defeat in nine league games. We fancy the Lions to nick the points here so back Millwall to win by exactly one goal at 7/2.
15:00 - Netherlands v United States
The first Round of 16 matchup to take place at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar will be Saturday’s fixture between an exciting looking Netherlands and the energetic, organised United States. Holland went through as Group A winners after winning two and drawing one of their three group games. As for USA, they drew two before beating Iran in game three to follow England into the last 16 from Group B, which was, on FIFA rankings at least, the group of death.
Netherlands missed out in Russia four years ago, but they have a good recent record on the grandest stage. Oranje have reached at least the quarters in four of their last five World Cups. The Stars and Stripes were impressive in the group stage, but we fancy Louis van Gaal’s men to get the victory at Khalifa International Stadium. Put some money on the Dutch win and both teams to score at the very nice price of 7/4.
19:00 - Argentina v Australia
Argentina and Australia lock horns in the Round of 16 of the 2022 FIFA World Cup this Saturday. The Argentinians are the red-hot favourites to get the job done at Ahmad bin Ali Stadium and secure their spot in the last eight. Argentina have responded well from their shock defeat to Saudi Arabia in their Qatar opener and Lionel Messi has started to sparkle.
The loss to the Saudis has to go down as one of the biggest shocks in World Cup history. It also ended Argentina’s 36-game unbeaten run (26 wins, 10 draws). However, Lionel Scaloni’s side bounced back with wins over Mexico and Poland to go through as Group C winners. The Socceroos have done extremely well to get this far, but the Argentinians should be too strong in Al Rayyan. Back Argentina to win -1 at 8/13.
15:00 - France v Poland
France and Poland meet in a 2022 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 game this Sunday at Al Thumama Stadium in Qatar’s capital. Despite crashing to a shock loss to Tunisia last time out, Didier Deschamps’ Blues are the red-hot favourites to win this one. Will the current world champions book their place in the last eight in Qatar?
Wins over Australia and Denmark put France through with one game to spare. However, they were poor against the Tunisians on matchday three, suffering a deserved 1-0 loss in Al Rayyan. It should be noted that they rested a number of key players, although some of those did feature from the bench. Poland edged out Mexico in the race for second place in Group C, going through on goal difference. Despite a loss in the last one, France should not have too many problems here, and we are backing Les Bleus to win -1 at the very nice price of 5/6.
19:00 - England v Senegal
After going through as Group B winners, Gareth Southgate’s England take on Senegal in the Round of 16 of the 2022 FIFA World Cup this Sunday. Apart from a disappointing showing against United States, the English have looked good in Qatar, and Southgate’s Three Lions are the clear favourites in this one. The winners will play either France or Poland in the quarters.
England bounced back from the poor performance against the States with a convincing 3-0 win over Wales on matchday three. Senegal finished runners-up to Netherlands in Group A, winning the last two after losing to the Dutch in game one. The Lions of Teranga will be no pushovers, but the Three Lions should get the job done. Take a punt on the England win and under 2.5 goals at 2/1.
15:00 - Japan v Croatia
Japan and Croatia lock horns in a 2022 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 match at Al Janoub Stadium this Monday. The Japanese have had a memorable World Cup so far, beating both Germany and Spain to take top spot in Group E. Samurai Blue are now looking to see off the Croatians, who were World Cup runners-up in Russia four years back.
Japan picked up a 2-1 win over Spain in their final group game, which was enough to finish in first position in Group E. Croatia were runners-up in Group F, winning one and drawing two. Japan have never scored against Croatia in their two previous World Cup meetings, but we fancy Hajime Moriyasu’s men to edge this one. As such we’ll be be backing Japan to win by one goal again at odds of 9/2.
19:00 - Brazil v South Korea
The record FIFA World Cup winners Brazil are in Round of 16 action on Monday, as Tite’s men face Paulo Bento’s South Korea at Stadium 974 in Doha. A second-string Brazilian side fell to a shock group defeat to Cameroon last time out, but Brazil head into this knockout game as the clear favourites with the bookies.
Brazil have not been at their best in Qatar, but they booked their place in the last 16 with one game to spare. South Korea finished second behind Portugal in Group H, picking up a surprise 2-1 victory over the Portuguese in their final group game to sneak into the knockouts. Unfortunately for the Taegeuk Warriors, Little Canary should be too strong in Doha. Our money is going on Brazil to win with a -1 handicap at a price of 4/5.
15:00 - Morocco v Spain
Morocco and Spain square off in a Round of 16 match at the 2022 FIFA World Cup on Tuesday. The Moroccans have been a surprise package in the tournament thus far, beating both Croatia and Belgium to top spot in their group. Can they now see off the Spaniards at Education City Stadium to progress to the last eight?
Morocco collected seven points to win Group F. They drew with Croatia in game one before beating Belgium and Canada. Spain started their competition with an emphatic 7-0 victory over Costa Rica. However, they picked up just a point from their last two and snuck into the last 16 on goal difference. Morocco will be tricky opponents for La Roja, and we fancy the draw in the 90 minutes at odds of 9/4.
19:00 - Portugal v Switzerland
The final 2022 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 matchup will take place on Tuesday, as Portugal and Switzerland do battle in Lusail. This all-European tie could go either way, though the Portuguese are the favourites to get the victory and progress. When they last met back in June, the Swiss nicked a 1-0 win in a UEFA Nations League fixture but it could be a different story this time around.
Portugal lost to South Korea in their last game, but two wins from their opening two proved enough to put them through. Switzerland also picked up six points from three group games, and they finished level on points with Brazil in Group G. This could be a tight game at Lusail Iconic Stadium, but we fancy Portugal to nick it and we’ll be taking a punt on Portugal to win by one goal at a price of 13/5.
19:45 - Stockport v Charlton
Stockport County and Charlton Athletic go head-to-head this Wednesday in a second-round FA Cup replay. After holding the EFL League One Addicks to a draw at The Valley, Stockport, who were a National League team last term, will fancy their chances of seeing off Charlton at Edgeley Park. The winners will be at home to Walsall in round three.
County have made a fine start to life in EFL League Two, sitting in 12th place after 20 games played. Dave Challinor’s troops have been tough to beat of late, losing just one of their last 10 games in all competitions. They drew 2-2 at The Valley, with Myles Hippolyte netting the equaliser in stoppage time. We are backing a Stockport win here at odds of evens.
19:15 - Gillingham v Dagenham
EFL League Two strugglers Gillingham take on National League side Dagenham and Redbridge in an FA Cup second-round replay on Thursday night. The Gills were relegated from EFL League One last term and are having a tough time in the fourth tier. As for the Daggers, they are in 10th position in the National League right now.
Gillingham have not won a league game since the beginning of October, and the Kent club are down in 23rd place as a result. Dagenham are gunning for promotion to the Football League, and they have had a steady season so far. The winners of the tie will host Premier League Leicester City in round three. The pair drew 1-1 in Dagenham, but we can see the Gills edging this replay on home turf which is available to back at odds of 11/8.
15:00 - Croatia v Brazil
Croatia and Brazil get the 2022 FIFA World Cup quarter-finals underway with a meeting at Education City Stadium on Friday. The Croatians were runners-up in Russia four years back, but the Brazilians are the clear favourites in this one and indeed, for the whole tournament. Can Tite’s Little Canary build on their big win over South Korea and book their place in the last four in Qatar?
Croatia were pushed all the way by Japan in their Round of 16 match, with Zlatko Dalic’s troops needing penalties to see off Samurai Blue in Al Wakrah. Brazil eased past the South Koreans in Doha, scoring four goals in the opening 36 minutes in the eventual 4-1 romp. They looked really good in that one, with signs their attacking players are now starting to click. The record World Cup winners should be too strong for the 2018 losing finalists. We like the look of evens for Brazil to be winning at half time and full time.
19:00 - Netherlands v Argentina
Louis van Gaal’s Netherlands and Lionel Scaloni’s Argentina meet in a mouth-watering 2022 FIFA World Cup quarter-final at Lusail Iconic Stadium this Friday night. The winners of this one will face either Croatia or Brazil in a semi-final in Lusail next week - surely most neutrals have been eyeing an all-South American semi for some time now. Holland have had a fine tournament thus far, but the Argentinians are the bookies’ favourites in this quarter.
The Dutch are unbeaten in Qatar, collecting seven points in the group stage before beating United States in the Round of 16. Argentina have bounced back with three straight wins after their shock loss to Saudi Arabia in their opener. This promises to be a thrilling quarter-final in Lusail, which the Argentinians should edge. Back Argentina win and both teams to score at the very generous price of 9/2.
12:00 - Blackburn v Preston
After a break to let the 2022 FIFA World Cup take centre stage, the EFL Championship makes a full return this weekend. First up, Lancashire rivals Blackburn Rovers and Preston North End clash at Ewood Park on Saturday lunchtime. Rovers are in third spot, while the Lilywhites are five points behind in ninth and both will be hoping for a promotion push in 2023.
Blackburn have made a strong start to the season under new boss Jon Dahl Tomasson. They have collected 36 points from 21 games, winning 12 and losing nine. Preston are on 31 points after eight wins, seven draws and six losses. Rovers have yet to draw a single league game this season, and we fancy the home side to edge past North End at Ewood Park. Back Blackburn to win by one goal at 11/4.
15:00 - Morocco v Portugal
Morocco and Portugal square off in the quarter-finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar this weekend. The Moroccans have been the surprise package so far and will no doubt be a tough nut to crack for the Portuguese. Almost everyone was predicting an all-Iberia clash here but Morocco didn’t read the script. However, Fernando Santos’ side will still be buzzing after their 6-1 win over Switzerland in the Round of 16 and they certainly won’t be scared coming into this match.
Morocco are undefeated in Qatar up until now. After beating the likes of Croatia and Belgium to top spot in Group F, the Moroccans stunned Spain in the Round of 16, winning 3-0 on penalties after a goalless draw in which they defended like lions. Portugal put on the performance of the tournament so far in their last game though, walloping the Swiss 6-1 in Lusail. We fancy the Portugal win and both teams to score in this one (3/1).
15:00 - Rotherham United v Bristol City
In the EFL Championship on Saturday afternoon, Rotherham United and Bristol City do battle at the New York Stadium in South Yorkshire. The Millers have been competitive on their Championship return so far, collecting 26 points from 21 matches. The Robins are currently two points and two places behind in 18th.
After taking just one point from a possible 15, Rotherham were slipping down the table at an alarming rate of knots. However, before the break, United picked up four points from two games, winning at Sheffield United and then drawing with Luton Town. Bristol City have been inconsistent once again, and our money is going on Rotherham in this one. Take a punt on the home win and both teams to score at the top odds of 5/1.
19:00 - England v France
European rivals England and France do battle in a mouth-watering quarter-final in the 2022 FIFA World Cup. This huge matchup in Qatar will take place at Al Bayt Stadium in Al Khor on Saturday night. The French are the reigning world champions, while the English reached the UEFA Euro 2020 final in the last major tournament. Who will prevail in Al Khor and move one step closer to glory?
England have looked strong in Qatar up to now, and Gareth Southgate’s men eased past Senegal in the Round of 16. As for Didier Deschamps’ France, they beat Poland 3-1 last time out. These two nations have played out some memorable matches over the years, and this one in Qatar promises to be special. It could go either way, but we are backing England to nick it, with odds of 2/1 seeming generous given their form and recent tournament pedigree.
13:00 - QPR v Burnley
Queens Park Rangers and Burnley meet in an EFL Championship cracker at Loftus Road on Sunday afternoon. Both clubs have Premier League ambitions, and we should be in for an entertaining encounter in the capital. QPR are in sixth position, 10 points behind leaders Burnley. Can the Clarets stretch their legs at the top?
QPR’s form before the international break was poor. After five wins from six, the Londoners picked up just one point from their following five Championship games. In addition, they have lost their manager, Michael Beale moving north to Glasgow Rangers. Burnley are sitting pretty at the summit after six wins from their previous seven. We are backing the in-form Clarets to chalk up another three points here. The Burnley win is available at the tempting price of 13/10 and that looks like very solid value to us.
15:00 - Watford v Hull
Watford and Hull City go head-to-head at Vicarage Road in the EFL Championship this Sunday. The Hornets have had a mixed bag of results so far this season, but they are in fourth position with 33 points to their name. Hull are at the other end of the table, collecting just 24 points from 21 matches and in danger of being dragged into a relegation battle. The Hertfordshire side are the clear favourites in this one and we have to agree with that assessment.
Watford have been in good form of late, winning four of their last six to fire themselves back into the play-offs after a slow start to their campaign. They look to be heading in the right direction under Slaven Bilic. Liam Rosenior has his work cut out at Hull, and City could fall to a 12th league defeat of their campaign already on Sunday. We fancy Watford to claim a routine home win so back the Hornets to win both halves at the nice price of 10/3.
20:00 - Sunderland v West Brom
On Monday night, Sunderland and West Bromwich Albion clash in EFL Championship action at the Stadium of Light. The Black Cats returned from the 2022 FIFA World Cup break with a comfortable 3-0 home win over Millwall last weekend. The Mackems are looking for a fourth win in five Championship games this Monday and going very well in the second tier.
The three points over the Lions lifted Sunderland into 10th place, just a point off the play-off spots. In contrast, West Brom have had a miserable season so far, though they have won three in a row under new boss, former Huddersfield manager Carlos Corberan, to lift themselves out of the bottom three. Both sides will want to keep good runs going, and a point apiece would be a decent result for the pair. Check out the draw and both teams to score at nice odds of 7/2.
19:00 - Argentina v Croatia
Argentina and Croatia meet in the first 2022 FIFA World Cup semi-final at Lusail Iconic Stadium in Qatar this Tuesday night. The Argentinians are the odds-on favourites to win this semi, but the Croatians, who were runners-up in Russia four years ago, will be no pushovers in Lusail. The winners of this one will face either Morocco or France in this weekend’s final.
Argentina are two-time World Cup winners, though the last of those triumphs came way back in 1986. Croatia have been on the rise in recent years, and Zlatko Dalic’s troops are looking to book their place in a second successive World Cup final. The Croatians edged past Brazil in the semi-finals, and we fancy a Croatia win here at the decent price of 4/1.
19:00 - France v Morocco
Didier Deschamps’ France and Walid Regragui’s Morocco go head-to-head in the second of the 2022 FIFA World Cup semi-finals this Wednesday night. No matter what happens at Al Bayt Stadium, the Moroccans have already made history, becoming the first African nation to reach the last four of a World Cup. Have the Atlas Lions got another shock in them or will the French turn on the style to progress to the final once again?
Defending champions France have looked strong in Qatar so far. In the quarter-finals last weekend, the French beat rivals England to secure their spot in yet another World Cup semi. Although that victory didn’t come without one or two scares along the way. Morocco, meanwhile, have had a memorable tournament thus far, beating Croatia and Belgium to top spot in Group F before seeing off Spain and Portugal in the knockouts. Unfortunately for Morocco, our money is going on France to claim victory in this one. Take a punt on the French win and both teams to score at odds of 10/3.
20:00 - Rangers v Hibernian
Rangers and Hibernian meet at Ibrox in a Scottish Premiership match this Thursday. Michael Beale takes charge of the Gers for the first time, and the former Queens Park Rangers manager will be looking for no less than three points. Rangers are nine points behind leaders Celtic after 15 games played and they can’t afford any more slips if they are going to have a chance of hauling their rivals back in.
After collecting just four points from a possible 12, Giovanni van Bronckhorst was sacked during the FIFA World Cup break. Lee Johnson’s Hibernian have had a mixed bag of results this season, winning six, losing eight and drawing two of 16. They were in dreadful form before the break, losing six of seven. Rangers should be too strong here, and we like the look of the odds of 7/4 for the hosts to win both halves.
20:00 - Arsenal Women v Lyon Women
In the UEFA Women’s Champions League on Thursday night, Arsenal and Lyon square off at the Emirates Stadium. The Gunners are top of Group C after collecting an impressive 10 points from four matches, while Lyon sit second with seven points to their name. The French giants will be no pushovers in London, but the home side will fancy their chances of moving on to 13 points.
Lyon are the record Champions League winners and the reigning European champions, but Arsenal hammered the French outfit in the reverse meeting at Parc Olympic Lyonnais back in October. Braces for Caitlin Foord and Beth Mead and a Frida Maanum effort secured a big 5-1 win in France. We are backing in-form Arsenal to win and both teams to score again.
20:00 - Birmingham v Reading
The EFL Championship weekend gets up and running on Friday night when Birmingham City and Reading lock horns at St Andrew’s. The Blues have been tough to beat of late, losing just two of their last 10 in all competitions to move up the table. As for the Royals, they have won two on the spin to move back within touching distance of the play-offs.
Both teams were tipped to struggle before a ball was kicked, but the pair have had decent campaigns up until now. John Eustace’s Birmingham have collected 29 points and sit 14th, while Paul Ince’s Reading are up in eighth on 32 points. This Friday’s night fixture could certainly go either way, but we can see the home side edging it. Take a punt on Birmingham to win by one goal at the very nice price of 23/20.
15:00 - Croatia v Morocco
Croatia and Morocco meet in the 2022 FIFA World Cup third-place play-off this Saturday. Both nations caused huge upsets to reach the semi-finals in Qatar, and this promises to be an entertaining game at Khalifa International Stadium, even if it is usually a match that neither fans, nor players really want. The Croatians were runners-up in Russia four years back and are favourites to get their hands on the bronze medal in Qatar.
Croatia shocked Brazil in the quarter-finals to set up a semi-final with Argentina. Unfortunately for Vlatko Dalic’s Blazers, they were easily beaten 3-0. Morocco put in a brave performance against world champions France, but Didier Deschamps’ men picked up a 2-0 win in the second semi. Walid Regragui’s Atlas Lions will no doubt play their part again, but we are backing the Croatian win and both teams to score, with 10/3 looking generous in a game where there is no real pressure.
15:00 - Burnley v Middlesbrough
EFL Championship leaders Burnley welcome improving Middlesbrough to Turf Moor in a mouth-watering Championship fixture this Saturday. The Clarets are looking for an instant return to the Premier League, and Vincent Kompany’s boys are eight points clear of third place as we approach the halfway point. They look very well set to seal promotion and their new boss is really proving he has what it takes. Will they secure another vital victory at the weekend?
Burnley have looked strong so far, suffering just two defeats from 22 Championship matches. The Lancashire side are in fine form, picking up seven wins from their last eight league and cup games. Boro, who are now managed by former Man United coach Michael Carrick, have won three in a row and have taken 12 points from their last five. Unfortunately for Carrick, we fancy Burnley here. Take a punt on the hosts to win -1 at 3/1.
17:30 - Norwich v Blackburn
Norwich City and Blackburn Rovers square off at Carrow Road in EFL Championship action on Saturday evening. Both teams are in the play-offs at present and are gunning for Premier League promotion. The Canaries are looking to build on their win at Swansea City last time out, and the home side are the bookies’ favourites in this one. We fancy them to get the job done but they won’t have things all their own way.
Blackburn crashed to a heavy defeat to Lancashire rivals Preston North End last Saturday, losing 4-1 on home soil. Despite already losing 10 times, Rovers are in third spot in the Championship table, indicative of the fact that they can be hit or miss at times. The Canaries are just a point behind at the moment, and we fancy Norwich to make home advantage count in this one. Put some money on the Norwich win and both teams to score at the tempting odds of 11/4.
12:00 - Luton v Millwall
Whilst most eyes will be on the World Cup final today, don’t forget that Luton Town and Millwall square off at Kenilworth Road in the EFL Championship as well! The lunchtime fixture promises to be an entertaining game between two evenly matched teams. Right now, the pair are separated by just two points in a congested Championship table. Will we see a winner at Kenilworth Road on Sunday?
Rob Edwards’ reign at Luton started in disappointing style, as the Hatters conceded at the death to lose 2-1 at Middlesbrough last weekend. Millwall have played two games since returning from the 2022 FIFA World Cup break. The Lions lost 3-0 at Sunderland before drawing 1-1 at home with Wigan Athletic last time out. The last meeting between the pair ended level, and we fancy the draw here at 2/1.
15:00 - Argentina v France
Lionel Scaloni’s Argentina and Didier Deschamps’ France go head-to-head at Lusail Iconic Stadium in the 2022 FIFA World Cup final this Sunday. Both nations have won two World Cups, though the Argentinians have not lifted the trophy since 1986. The French are the defending champions and the slight favourites to retain their World Cup crown although the betting could hardly be any closer between these two.
Argentina have responded in style after their shock defeat to Saudi Arabia in game one. They made light work of Croatia in the semi-finals, with Lionel Messi inspiring his nation to a 3-0 win. Messi would love to end his career with a World Cup win and many neutrals will be hoping he can guide his nation to glory. After edging past England, Les Bleus beat Morocco 2-0 to book their place in a fourth final in the last seven World Cups. We can see France edging a tight and tense final in Lusail, and you can get the solid price of 10/3 for the French to win by one goal.
20:00 - Wigan v Sheffield United
Sheffield United are in EFL Championship action on Monday night when they make the trip to the DW Stadium to face Wigan Athletic. Ahead of this round of fixtures, Paul Heckingbottom’s boys are riding high in second position in the table, three points behind leaders Burnley. As for the Latics, they find themselves languishing in 22nd place after 22 games and facing the daunting prospect of a relegation dogfight.
Sheffield United are having a fine season under Heckingbottom as they look to bring Premier League football back to Bramall Lane. The Blades are in great form, winning five of their last six Championship games. After back-to-back 1-0 wins over Cardiff City and Huddersfield Town, we’re having a punt on United to win to nil again at odds of 9/4.
20:00 - Manchester United v Burnley
English football returns after the FIFA World Cup break, and Manchester United are back in action in the EFL Cup in midweek. On Wednesday night, the Red Devils welcome EFL Championship leaders Burnley to Old Trafford in the Round of 16. This could be a tough tie against Vincent Kompany’s well-drilled Clarets, but Erik ten Hag’s boys are the clear favourites to prevail.
This will be United’s first game since winning at Fulham in the league on 13th November. After Wednesday’s cup game, the Red Devils host Nottingham Forest in the Premier League next Tuesday. Burnley have already played twice since returning from the World Cup break, beating Queens Park Rangers and Middlesbrough. The Clarets could be tricky customers, but Man United should get the job done on home soil. We’ll be backing the home win and both teams to score at a price of 2/1.
20:00 - Manchester City v Liverpool
Premier League giants Manchester City and Liverpool lock horns in a mouth-watering EFL Cup tie this Thursday. The Citizens have won this competition four times under Pep Guardiola, while Jurgen Klopp’s Reds are the defending champions after beating Chelsea in last season’s final. Who will get the victory and book their place in the last eight of this year’s tournament?
Man City lost at home to Brentford before the FIFA World Cup break, but Guardiola’s superstars are notoriously tough to beat at the Etihad Stadium. Liverpool have beaten City twice this season, seeing off the Manchester outfit in the FA Community Shield and the Premier League match at Anfield. However, we are backing the Premier League champions to make home advantage count here. This promises to be a Christmas cracker, so check out the home win and over 2.5 goals at odds of 8/5.
12:00 - Watford v Millwall
In the EFL Championship on Boxing Day, Slaven Bilic’s Watford and Gary Rowett’s Millwall clash at Vicarage Road. The Hornets have been in good form lately, losing just one of their previous eight to move into the play-off spots. The Lions are an unpredictable outfit, but Watford will fancy their chances of extending their unbeaten run to five.
After back-to-back 0-0 draws with Bristol City and Hull City, Watford won 2-0 at Huddersfield Town last time out. Millwall have been in patchy form of late, as the London side have won just one of six in the Championship after four straight wins. We are backing the home side to edge an entertaining affair at Vicarage Road. Put some money on the Watford win and both teams to score at the big price of 15/4.
12:30 - Sunderland v Blackburn Rovers
Sunderland and Blackburn Rovers meet at the Stadium of Light in EFL Championship Boxing Day action. Despite losing 10 times already this term, Rovers are in third place in the table, while the Black Cats are just three points behind the play-off places. Both clubs have Premier League aspirations, and this Championship matchup could go either way.
Sunderland have had a solid return to the Championship, taking 31 points from 23 games. The Mackems have won eight, drawn seven and lost eight so far. Blackburn are the only team in all four divisions yet to draw a game this term. No side have won more in the Championship, though, and we fancy Rovers to nick the points at the Stadium of Light. The Blackburn victory is available at 9/4 and that looks solid.
12:30 - Brentford v Tottenham Hotspur
London sides Brentford and Tottenham Hotspur clash in Boxing Day Premier League action at the Gtech Community Stadium. Thomas Frank’s men won at Manchester City before the FIFA World Cup break and will fancy their chances of upsetting Spurs in this one. However, Antonio Conte’s men head to West London as the odds-on favourites. It is a tough one to call but we fancy Spurs to get a draw at the very worst in what should be an entertaining clash.
Brentford are having another fine season in the top tier. The Bees resume in 10th spot, collecting 19 points from 15 games. Tottenham were involved in a seven-goal thriller in their last match before the break, beating Leeds United 4-3 at home. This promises to be another entertaining encounter, but we fancy the Bees to hold Tottenham to a draw. You can get 9/1 for the draw and over 2.5 goals.
17:30 - Aston Villa v Liverpool
Aston Villa and Liverpool lock horns at Villa Park in the Premier League on Boxing Day. The Reds have had a tough season so far, but Jurgen Klopp’s men did beat Tottenham Hotspur and Southampton in their last two league games before the FIFA World Cup break. Can Liverpool make it three Premier League wins on the trot with three points in the Midlands as they bid to mount a charge up the league table?
Unai Emery, who took over from former Anfield legend Steven Gerrard, has started life at Villa in strong style. After a 3-1 home win over Manchester United, the Villans won 2-1 at Brighton & Hove Albion before the break. Villa will no doubt be formidable opponents for the Reds, but we fancy Liverpool to edge it at Villa Park. Take a punt on the away team to win by exactly one goal at nice odds of 11/4.
20:00 - Arsenal v West Ham United
On Monday night, Arsenal and West Ham United go head-to-head in a tasty Premier League game at the Emirates Stadium. The Gunners are flying at the top of the table and are looking for a 13th league win of the season. The Hammers could be a tough nut to crack, but Mikel Arteta’s boys are the red-hot favourites to take the points on home soil.
After watching Manchester City lose at home to Brentford, Arsenal won 2-0 at Wolverhampton Wanderers before the break to move five points clear at the summit. The Gunners have had an exceptional season up until now, winning 12 of 14 Premier League matches. They now have to be considered to be very serious title challengers and could be City’s main rival this term. Arsenal should certainly be too strong for West Ham at the Emirates so back the hosts to win -1 at 11/8.
17:15 - Reading v Swansea
Reading and Swansea City meet at the Select Car Leasing Stadium in the EFL Championship on Tuesday. These two teams are level on points in the table, with the Swans ahead in 11th only on goal difference. On paper, there is not a lot to split Reading and Swansea, and this festive Championship fixture could go either way in Berkshire.
Reading have been in patchy form of late. They picked up wins over Hull City and Coventry City before the 3-2 loss at Birmingham City last time out. Swansea fought back from three goals down to grab a point at Coventry in their last game. This could end all square, and we like the look of 7/2 for the draw and both teams to score.
17:30 - Chelsea v Bournemouth
Chelsea and Bournemouth clash in the Premier League on Tuesday. The Blues are looking to return to action after the 2022 FIFA World Cup break with a comfortable victory at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea have had a poor season so far, though, collecting just 21 points from 14 games. The Cherries are five points behind in 14th place in the table.
Graham Potter made a strong start to life at Chelsea, but the former Brighton and Hove Albion boss has lost three of his last four in all competitions. Chelsea are winless in five in the Premier League, drawing two before suffering three successive defeats. However, the World Cup break could have come at the right time for Potter and his men, and they should see off Bournemouth here. There is good value in the odds of 21/10 for the Chelsea win and both teams to score in this one.
20:00 - Manchester United v Nottingham Forest
Manchester United and Nottingham Forest go head-to-head at Old Trafford in Premier League action on Tuesday night. The Red Devils returned from the international break with a 2-0 EFL Cup win over Burnley last Wednesday. Erik ten Hag will now be looking for a big three points in the Premier League, and United are heavily fancied with the bookies.
Man United are in fine fettle, picking up six wins from their last seven league and cup games. A league loss at Aston Villa last month is their only defeat since losing the Manchester derby in early October. Forest have won three in a row in all competitions, but Steve Cooper’s men are in the relegation zone at present. We fancy Man United to win this one with a -1 goal handicap on home soil at odds of 5/6.
20:00 - Burnley v Birmingham
EFL Championship leaders Burnley welcome Birmingham City to Turf Moor on Tuesday night. The Clarets are the odds-on favourites to win this home game, but the Blues could be a tough nut to crack. Burnley have won seven of their last eight in the Championship, while Birmingham have suffered just one defeat in seven league games.
Burnley are looking for an instant return to the Premier League after dropping out of the top tier last term. They have made a strong start under Vincent Kompany, winning 13, drawing eight and losing two of their 23 matches. John Eustace has done a fine job at St Andrew’s so far, as City are just two points behind sixth in ninth. However, we are backing Burnley in this one – you can get a price of 6/4 for the hosts to be winning at half time and full time in this one, which looks good to us.
20:00 - Leeds v Manchester City
Manchester City’s first Premier League game after the FIFA World Cup game is a trip to Leeds United on Wednesday evening. The champions are hoping to return to winning ways after suffering a shock home loss to Brentford before the break. Leeds were also beaten in their last match, losing 4-3 in a thriller against Tottenham Hotspur.
Prior to the Brentford loss, Man City had picked up six wins from seven Premier League matches. Their only away defeat in any competition this term came in a league fixture at Anfield in October. Leeds had picked up much-needed wins over Liverpool and Bournemouth before the loss to Spurs. Unfortunately for United, City should be too strong in this one and we’ll be taking a punt on Pep Guardiola’s men to win both halves at a price of 13/8.
18:00 - QPR v Luton
Queens Park Rangers and Luton Town meet at Loftus Road in the EFL Championship on Thursday. After taking four points from their last two, Rangers are knocking on the door of the play-off places once again and are recovering from the loss of their manager who jumped ship to Glasgow Rangers. The Hatters, who beat Norwich City last time out, are two points behind the Hoops in 13th position so both will be hoping to push for a play-off spot in the New Year.
QPR started well but then went on a dreadful run, taking just one point from six league matches. Still, after a win at Preston North End, the Londoners drew 0-0 at Cardiff City last time out. Rob Edwards picked up his first Luton victory on Boxing Day, as the 10-man Hatters beat Norwich 2-1 at Kenilworth Road. This could go either way, but our money is going on the draw and both teams to score at the big price of 7/2.
20:15 - Blackpool v Sheffield United
In-form Sheffield United will be looking for another three points when they travel to Bloomfield Road to face struggling Blackpool on Thursday night in the EFL Championship. After losing in the play-offs last term, Paul Heckingbottom’s boys are desperate for automatic promotion this time. The Blades are the odds-on bookies’ favourites in this one and they should have more than enough to get the job done.
Sheffield United are in stunning form right now, winning seven of their last eight Championship games. They are three points behind leaders Burnley but a whopping eighth points above third spot, so currently looking in with a great chance of gaining automatic promotion. In contrast, the Tangerines languish in 22nd position after no wins in seven (four defeats, three draws). We fancy an easy away victory here, and there is good value in 9/4 for United to win -1.
19:45 - West Ham v Brentford
London duo West Ham United and Brentford square off at the London Stadium in Premier League action on Friday night. The Hammers are really struggling and come into this one just two points above 20th, so three points would be massive for the home side. In contrast, Brentford’s confidence must be sky high given they have taken four points from games against Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur in their last two. Thomas Frank’s men will not be an easy nut to crack and we fancy them for a big away win and at a nice price too.
West Ham have suffered four straight Premier League defeats and have slipped down to 16th. The loss at the Emirates Stadium on Boxing Day was their 10th league reverse of the campaign. Brentford are having another good season in the top tier, and we fancy Frank’s side to leave the London Stadium with all three points. The Brentford win is very attractively priced at 5/2.
19:45 - Birmingham v Hull
In the EFL Championship on Friday, Birmingham City and Hull City clash at St Andrew’s. The Blues were easily beaten by leaders Burnley in their last one, but in general Birmingham have not been an easy nut to crack under John Eustace. Hull head to the Midlands having drawn three Championship games on the trot and we fancy they may extend that sequence here.
Birmingham could be a dark horse in the race for the play-offs this season. At present, Eustace’s City are just three points behind sixth spot. Hull are in danger again, as the Tigers are two points and one place above the drop zone. Hull have drawn three on the spin, and we are backing Liam Rosenior’s side to leave St Andrew’s with a point. Take a punt on the draw and under 2.5 goals at 3/1.
19:45 - Swansea v Watford
Swansea City welcome Watford to the Swansea.com Stadium in the EFL Championship on Friday night. Both teams are looking to bounce back from defeats but it is the visitors who are in the better form. The Swans are winless in eight, while the Hornets have won three and drawn one of their last four away matches in the Championship. Will Watford keep up their fine away form with three points in South Wales?
Swansea have not won since beating rivals Cardiff City in the South Wales derby back in October. Since then, they have drawn five and lost three of eight. Watford have been going well under Slaven Bilic, but the Hornets fell to disappointing home defeat to Millwall on Boxing Day. We fancy Bilic’s boys to bounce back with a victory here (9/4).
20:00 - Liverpool v Leicester
Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool host Brendan Rodgers’ Leicester City at Anfield on Friday. After three Premier League wins on the spin, the Reds have moved into sixth and are starting to look like the Liverpool we have come to expect in recent seasons. As for the Foxes, they hover just four points above the drop zone after a poor 3-0 home reverse to Newcastle United on Boxing Day. Liverpool are heavily fancied in this one.
Leicester were starting to show signs of life, winning five of six league and cup matches. However, they were poor on Boxing Day against in-form Newcastle and were soundly beaten. Liverpool continued their league revival with a 3-1 win at Aston Villa on Monday. The Merseysiders should be too strong for Leicester in this one. Take a punt on Liverpool to be winning at half time and full time at nice odds of 5/6.
12:30 - Wolves v Manchester United
Wolverhampton Wanderers take on Manchester United in Premier League action at Molineux on New Year’s Eve. Both teams returned from the FIFA World Cup break with victories earlier in the week. Can Julen Lopetegui pick up a win in his first home game, or will Erik ten Hag’s in-form United leave the Midlands with a positive result?
The 2-1 victory at Everton on Boxing Day was just what the doctor ordered for Wanderers, especially given they scored the winner against the run of play and in the 95th minute of the game. After a 2-0 win over Gillingham in the cup, Lopetegui has now won two out of two since taking over. However, Man United are in fine form, suffering just one loss in 14 league and cup matches and starting to look like a side that can press for the top four this season. We fancy the Red Devils to edge this one at Molineux. Back the away side to win by exactly one goal at the nice price of 11/4.
15:00 - Manchester City v Everton
Champions Manchester City see out 2022 with a home game against struggling Everton on New Year’s Eve and they will want to send 2022 out with a bang. City have returned from the break with wins over Liverpool and Leeds United, and Pep Guardiola’s boys will be looking for another victory here. As you would expect, the Citizens are the overwhelming favourites and anything aside from an easy home win would be a major shock.
Man City were too strong for Leeds on Wednesday, with Erling Haaland helping himself to two more goals in a 3-1 win at Elland Road. As for Frank Lampard’s Toffees, they crashed to a disappointing home reverse to Wolverhampton Wanderers, which was their fourth league and cup loss in a row. This should be an easy win for City, and there is good value in 10/11 for the hosts to win both halves.
15:00 - Newcastle v Leeds
In-form Newcastle United welcome Leeds United to St James’ Park for a Premier League fixture on New Year’s Eve. The Magpies are having a stunning season under Eddie Howe, while Leeds are just two points above the drop zone. Newcastle will be eyeing up another three points from this home match.
Howe’s boys sit third right now, collecting an impressive 33 points from 16 games. They have won nine, drawn six and lost just one so far. On Boxing Day, United picked up from where they left off with a superb 3-0 win at Leicester City. As for Leeds, they lost 3-1 at home to Manchester City. Our money is going on the Newcastle win and both teams to score at 21/10.
17:30 - Brighton v Arsenal
Premier League leaders Arsenal end a memorable 2022 with a trip to Brighton & Hove Albion. The Gunners have been in exceptional form this season and will be top on New Year’s Day whatever happens in the final fixture of 2022. After coming from behind to see off West Ham United, Mikel Arteta’s men will be looking for another three points here to keep a firm grip on top spot.
Brighton have been in good form under Roberto De Zerbi, winning three of their last four in the league. However, Arsenal have dropped just five Premier League points all season, and we fancy the leaders to rack up yet another three points at the Amex Stadium on New Year’s Eve. Take a punt on Arsenal to be winning at half time and full time at generous looking odds of 5/2.
12:00 - Blackburn Rovers v Cardiff City
In the EFL Championship on New Year’s Day, inconsistent Blackburn Rovers welcome struggling Cardiff City to Ewood Park. Despite already suffering 12 league defeats, Rovers are in the play-off spots at present. The Bluebirds have lost fewer games but are just three points above the relegation zone, numbers which show just how important claiming all three points is.
Blackburn have had a strange season so far. Jon Dahl Tomasson’s troops have suffered more defeats than most teams in the Championship and have yet to draw a single league game. However, they have won 13 times and racked up 39 points. Cardiff are having another difficult campaign, and Mark Hudson’s men are without a single win in their last six. We fancy Blackburn to edge this one on home soil so take a punt on the hosts to win by exactly one (3/1).
14:00 - Tottenham Hotspur v Aston Villa
Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa meet at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on New Year’s Day in the first Premier League fixture of 2023. Antonio Conte’s men are clinging on to the final UEFA Champions League spot, but the likes of Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea are ready to pounce on any Spurs slipups and the battle for the top four is sure to be tight this term.
Tottenham returned from the international break with a hard-fought 2-2 draw at Brentford. They were two goals down, but second-half strikes from Harry Kane and Pierre Hojbjerg rescued a point. Unai Emery suffered his first Villa loss on Boxing Day, as his side were well beaten at home by Liverpool. The Villans will not be an easy nut to crack, but home advantage should give Spurs the edge. Back the home win and both teams to score at the decent looking odds of 12/5.
15:00 - Blackpool v Sunderland
Blackpool take on Sunderland at Bloomfield Road in EFL Championship action on New Year’s Day. These two clubs are at opposite ends of the second-tier table as we enter 2023. The Tangerines sit second from bottom after 12 defeats from 25 games, while the Black Cats moved into the play-offs with three points in midweek and are starting to impress.
Blackpool have found Championship life tough going this season, and the Seasiders have failed to win any of their last eight league games (three draws, five losses). Sunderland have been in fine form of late, collecting seven points from their last three to move into the top six. Both teams would love the points, but we fancy this to end all square at Bloomfield Road. Take a punt on the draw and under 2.5 goals (11/4).
16:30 - Nottingham Forest v Chelsea
Graham Potter takes his Chelsea troops to the City Ground on New Year’s Day to face Steve Cooper’s Nottingham Forest in the Premier League. The Blues are currently in eighth place, six points behind the final UEFA Champions League. The Blues are looking to build on their comfortable victory over Bournemouth last time out and there are more than enough points left to play for in terms of the battle to earn a Champions League spot next term.
Forest were in their best form of the season before the FIFA World Cup break, but Cooper’s troops returned to league action last Tuesday with a 3-0 loss to Manchester United at Old Trafford. In contrast, Chelsea ended a five-game winless run in the Premier League with a 2-0 home success over the Cherries. We fancy Potter’s men to win to nil again on Sunday (13/8).
17:30 - Brentford v Liverpool
Thomas Frank’s Brentford and Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool meet at the Gtech Community Stadium in the Premier League on Monday. The Bees have collected four points from tough games against Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur in their last two, and Frank’s men will fancy their chances of picking up a positive result against the Reds in this one. They continue to defy the odds and the finances and will give the visitors plenty to think about in this one.
Liverpool have looked much more like their usual selves in recent matches, winning three Premier League games in a row since back-to-back losses to Nottingham Forest and Leeds United. They won 3-1 at Aston Villa on Boxing Day, and we can see a similar outcome here. You can get the solid odds of 7/5 for the away team to win -1 in west London and given their improvement of late that looks generous.
20:00 - QPR v Sheffield United
Queens Park Rangers and Sheffield United go head-to-head in EFL Championship action at Loftus Road on Monday night. Rangers are hoping to respond after their disappointing home reverse to Luton Town last time out, while the Blades are looking to extend their Championship winning run to six games and maintain their advantage over third place.
QPR have struggled for consistency this season, and the London side head into this one having lost six of their previous nine league fixtures. In contrast, Sheffield United are flying right now. Paul Heckingbottom’s men are looking a good bet for promotion after eight wins from nine. We fancy United to stretch their winning run with three points in the capital. Back the away win and both teams to score at the huge odds of 4/1.