Storyline: From robust action in Germany to PSG’s undefeated streak there will be plenty to watch and enjoy in European football this weekend. Written by Craig Simkin, London. For more coverage of football action go to Betadvisor.com.
The final week before the Christmas holidays looks set to be a cracker. There’s plenty on the line for teams at the top and bottom of their respective leagues. Here are five key talking points for punter to enjoy.
#1 – Goals in Germany
Courtesy: eastjournal.org
The Germans are known for their efficiency and metronomic approach to the game, but that doesn’t always produce goals and make for attractive football. That said, this weekend’s Bundesliga fixtures offer a few mouthwatering ties for punters. Take the clash between leaders Bayern and struggling Hannover 96. Both of these teams have averaged 3.2 goals per game in their last five outings so there’s plenty of value to be enjoyed. You can get 1.50 on Over 2.5 Goals, while the braver punter could be rewarded at 2.38 for Over 3.5 Goals.
And then there’s the encounter between Borussia M’gladbach and Darmstadt. In the former’s last four matches there have been an incredible 18 goals netted, while Darmstadt has lost 0-4 and 1-3 in two of their last four outings. Fancy more goals here? The Over 2.5 can be backed at 1.75, and the Over 3.5 at an eye-catching 3.00.
#2 – Two Big Guns Do Battle
Arsenal and Manchester City will duke it out Monday night in a contest that could have serious ramifications for the English Premier League title race. The winner will be in a prime position heading into 2016, while the runner-up will have plenty of catching up to do. The bookmakers can’t split them: they have Arsenal at 2.50, Man City at 3.10, and the draw at 3.70. So where should your money be going? You’d have to favour the Gunners – despite their injury problems. They have lost just once in seven league matches at their Emirates Stadium home this term, while Man City have earned 11 points from a possible 21 on the road.
#3 – New Leaders in La Liga?
Courtesy: usclubsoccer.org
It would be by default, but Atletico Madrid could go top of the La Liga table if they claim just a point on Sunday against relegation-threatened Malaga. We say by default because Barcelona is in Asia playing in the Club World Cup. When they return to European shores the pressure will be if they find themselves in second place in the league. Malaga is ropey at home, although their goals scored/conceded stats – played seven, scored five, conceded seven – suggest that Diego Simeone’s side will have to work hard to come out on top. But Atletico boasts the best away record in the division, and they have conceded just two goals on their travels this term. They look good value at 1.80.
#4 – Inter to Extend Lead in Serie A?
It’s all change at the top of Serie A, where two games without a win for Napoli have seen them fall away from the summit of the division. An unappetising trip to a vibrant Atlanta side on Sunday could compound their misery yet further. Fiorentina, in second, faces a Chievo side that has won three of their last four. Inter should have a great chance of extending its four-point lead at the head of the table. They host a Lazio side that hasn’t won in seven. At 5.5 to win the Serie A title there’s plenty of value to be had.
#5 – “Caen” PSG’s Unbeaten Run Be Ended?
Courtesy: twitter
PSG boasts one of European football’s longest unbeaten runs – they’re up to 18 undefeated now – and this week the job falls to Caen. They are up to 4th in the league and have displayed some half- decent form at home where 16 points from a possible 27 is handy enough. And, if PSG has shown any weakness this season (and this is pushing it a bit) it has been two draws on the road. That suggests Caen can perhaps achieve something if they are positive. Let’s be clear, though: a 8.00 it will take something special.
