Best Of Bets

Tag: Euro 2024

  • Euro 2024 | BestofBets’ semi-final punts

    Euro 2024 | BestofBets’ semi-final punts

    Forty-eight games down, three two go in Euro 2024, as the we reach the semi-final stage with two enticing clashes on the menu.

    As Spain and France meet in Munich, England and Holland lock horns in Dortmund, as Germany’s two biggest football cities decide who goes to Berlin for Sunday’s finale.

    Having hit 1/3 of our quarter-final punts (almost two with Gakpo), here at BestofBets, we’ve selected three more considerations for punters to peruse.

     

    Declan Rice to have 1+ Shot on target – 5/2 (William Hill)

    Scraping through the quarter-finals on penalties, England’s reward is a last four meeting with Holland, a game which could prove to be an open affair.

    A first meeting between the sides in a major tournament since Euro ’96, Oranje may feel revenge is in order, whilst the Three Lions look to exact their own payback to Ronald Koeman for Rotterdam 1993.

    In any case, this clash could be determined by a midfield battle, in particular England’s ever-impressive enforcer, Declan Rice.

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    The Arsenal man will be a pivotal figure, and we fancy him to get an opening or two from range.

    Forcing Yann Sommer into a smart save in extra time last weekend, Rice has notched a shot on target in two of five games this summer.

    If England once again push up the field but gather in pockets around the area, as has become custom this tournament, Rice could be in business for another.

     

    Spain vs France – Under 1.5 goals – 33/20 (Unibet)

    For the remaining two punts, we look to Tuesday’s opening clash as tournament favourites Spain look to finally put France out of their misery.

    However, Les Bleus still carry that fear factor for many teams, given their recent successes.

    Spain have looked by far the most at-ease side in Germany, and having put away the hosts in the last eight are still the ones to beat.

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    On paper, La Furia Roja look to bring the goals, but that could be countered by Didier Deschamps’ spluttering French machine.

    Whilst Spain have netted 11 goals in their five outings, France have not scored more than a single goal in any game, with just three in total up to this point.

    With the stakes so high, there is enough to suggest an open but goal-shy affair, and at a decent price.

     

    Nico Williams to score – 11/2 (BetUK)

    Just to appease our own doubt, we are looking at another angle in case the goals do flow in Munich, and Nico Williams is the man to look at.

    Spain’s flying winger, Lamine Yamal may have captured more column inches, but the Athletic Club forward has blossomed in the Euros.

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    Finally on the scoresheet against Georgia, the in-demand Williams will be baring down at an obdurate French back line, but all the same can cause problems.

    Having come to life after the Croatia game, the winger has had chances in all three games since – rested against Albania.

    Williams could yet be on the move to Barcelona later this summer, and his talents will be further showcased here, at very tasty odds.

     

    The Euro 2024 semi-finals begin on Tuesday.

  • Euro 2024 | BetsofBets’ 7/1 Last 16 Tri-fecta

    Euro 2024 | BetsofBets’ 7/1 Last 16 Tri-fecta

    So here we go. For the first time in European Championship finals history, a last 16 to determine our quarter-final line-up for Euro 2024.

    With two games a day staggered over Saturday to Tuesday, its business time in Germany.

    Eight fixtures, each with their own dash of intrigue and for BestofBets’ angle to begin the knockouts, we’re picking three teams to advance as an acca.

     

    Switzerland to qualify – 6/5 (BetUK)

    The opening game sees a fascinating style clash between alpine neighbours Switzerland and Italy in Berlin.

    With both sides having avoided the far tougher side of the draw, hopes will be high of going deep into the tournament, not least the holders, Italy.

    The Azzurri are the bookies’ favourite to make the quarter-finals, however they face Murat Yakin’s mobile Swiss outfit, who last time out came within 90 seconds of topping Group A.

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    Denied by Germany at the death last time out, it could yet prove a blessing in disguise in the long-term.

    This could be a drawn-out affair, and we can see it going past 90 mins, perhaps to spot-kicks.

    The Italians’ last shootout saw them lift the European Championship Trophy, but the Swiss seem to have mettle in droves this summer, not least a plethora of front men options, in Embolo, Okafor and Duah.

    There may not be much in it, but we are edging Switzerland to reach the last eight for the second Euros on the bounce.

     

    France to win (90 mins) – 19/20 (888sport)

    A handful of teams have flattered to deceive so far this tournament, and two of them meet in a tantalising clash in Dusseldorf on Monday, as France play Belgium.

    The two neighbouring nations last met in the Nations League during October 2021, when five goals were shared.

    In terms of tournament competition however, the duo played out a tense World Cup semi-final affair in Russia six years ago.

    That was in the midst of the Golden Generation for Belgium, alas in 2024, Domenico Tedesco has overseen laboured efforts in the three Group games so far.

    Struggling badly in front of goal, a wildly out-of-nick Romelu Lukaku is yet to score this summer, whilst talisman Kevin De Bruyne is battling losing the fans.

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    That is not to say the French have been glowing either, far from it.

    It has often be suggested France would struggle without Kylian Mbappe, and so it has proven – now a reduced threat with his facial injuries.

    In many ways, as the underdog here after below-pars showings so far this tournament, it would be typical of Belgium to rise to the occasion and stun the French – they certainly have the ammunition.

    However, France continue to do just enough to get by and will very likely hobble through again, with the masked avenger, Mbappe ready to make the difference.

     

    Austria to win (90 mins) – 10/11 (Betfred)

    The Austrians have been one of the stories of the Euros, and the fans Ralf Rangnick may have lost as Manchester United boss, have been returned ten-fold as Austria national team coach.

    Finishing surprise winners of Group B, the Austrian energy and press has won many over and in turn, overwhelmed both the Dutch and Poles.

    Now comes the real test however, as Austria look to win a Euro knockout game for the very first time against an unpredictable Turkey.

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    The key to this game will likely be in the middle of the park, and with Christoph Baumgartner back in the starting XI to avoid been banned here, Austria are at full strength.

    Turkey will be no pushovers whatsoever, but they in turn will be bereft of suspended skipper Hakan Calhanoglu and that could make the difference.

    Expect goals, but for Austria to finally end their Euro knockout hoodoo.

     

    Combined acca treble 7/1 with QuinnBet.

     

    The last 16 of Euro 2024 begins on Saturday.

  • Euro 2024 | BestofBets 55/1 Matchday 3 Goalscorer Treble

    Euro 2024 | BestofBets 55/1 Matchday 3 Goalscorer Treble

    It’s crunch time in Euro 2024 as the Group stages come to a conclusion, so what does Matchday 3 have in store?

    With just six teams having booked their spot in the last 16 starting Friday, which 10 countries will be joining them in the knockout stages?

    Once again we’ve picked three anytime goalscorers to consider for a Goalscorer Treble, this week at 55/1 with Unibet .

     

    Switzerland vs Germany – Niclas Fullkrug – 43/20

    Germany look poised to finish top of Group A, and with only defeat to Switzerland in Frankfurt denying the hosts that, Niclas Fullkrug could be a smart choice for goals.

    With their passage already booked, after Kai Havertz was switched out before the hour-mark against Hungary, the indications are the Borussia Dortmund striker could lead the line here.

    Having become quite the marksman off the bench for Julian Nagelsmann, Fullkrug netted as a sub against Scotland and had openings to add to his tally last time out.

    Havertz has been a focal point to this point, but when Fullkrug is present, Germany carry that extra threat with an out-and-out number 9.

    The Swiss will be the toughest examination this summer so far, and it may take Fullkrug to unlock the door.

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    Christoph Baumgartner – Netherlands vs Austria – 11/2

    Of the three scorers we fancy in Matchday 3, this one is by far the biggest punt but as the Netherlands face Austria in Berlin, Christoph Baumgartner carries superb value.

    After defeating Poland, the bordering nation are well placed to make the knockouts.

    However, they finish up with another stern test and Austria need to be at their best to take the point that will guarantee moving on.

    Baumgartner has been the lynchpin of the side for some time now, and after wasting a golden chance against France, netted from the edge of the box to return to the scoresheet.

    The RB Leipzig midfield looks at home in his country of employ this summer, and he may need to add to his tally against Oranje.

    The bookies have the Dutch as strong favourites here, but Austria can’t be overlooked given their work ethic.

    Baumgartner can be a real presence and individually if nothing else, 11/2 to score anytime looks inviting.

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    Patrik Schick – Czechia vs Turkey – 9/5

    With Portugal Group F winners, the battle for a possible two further spots ramps up in Matchday 3 as Czechia and Turkiye meet for an all-or-nothing clash in Hamburg.

    And, crucially, Patrik Schick looks back in form.

    One of Europe’s most enigmatic front men, his goals come in equally mysterious spells.

    Having been afforded less than an hour against Portugal, the Leverkusen hitman was in the right place to poke in from close range against Georgia.

    Still the Czech number one choice, Schick has scored twice in the last three outings and afterinjury is approaching full fitness.

    Turkey will be intent on thwarting the progress of Ivan Hasek’s charges, but Schick is a potent prowler and we see him grabbing a second tournament goal here.

     

    Euro 2024 Matchday 3 begins on Sunday.

  • Euro 2024 | BestofBets Matchday 2 111/1 Goalscorer Treble

    Euro 2024 | BestofBets Matchday 2 111/1 Goalscorer Treble

    By now, all 24 teams at Euro 2024 have offered their opening efforts, so what of Matchday 2 to come?

    As the stakes rise this week, the dominoes begin to fall into place and after a 1/3 success in Matchday 1’s punt, can we go better this week?

    Here at BestofBets, we’re lining up a Goalscorer Treble, with three separate anytime scorers backed individually and as an acca.

    Lets dive in.

     

    *all prices to score anytime

     

    Germany vs Hungary – Barnabas Varga – 9/2 (BoyleSports)

    First up, it’s yet another European border derby as Germany and Hungary meet for the 9th time in their collective histories.

    The hosts demolished Scotland on opening day, whilst the Mighty Magyars were a tad stale against a fluid Swiss side. Here they must respond.

    And in Barnabas Varga, Marco Rossi’s men can.

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    Netting against the Swiss on Saturday, the Ferencvarosi forward has scored in back-to-back appearances for the national side and looks likely to stay on the pitch for the duration.

    The consensus is the real Hungary only showed up for 45 minutes last weekend, and Germany will find Hungary a sterner test than the limp Scots.

    Varga will be central to that.

     

    Slovakia vs Ukraine – Robert Bozenik – 5/1 (Unibet)

    Next, we look to a melting pot of a Group E for two picks, starting with Robert Bozenik as Slovakia face the Ukraine back line.

    Providing the initial shot saved by Koen Casteels against Belgium, Ivan Schranz snapped up the rebound to convert the decisive goal in Frankfurt.

    Slovakia would have looked at this game as the pivotal fixture in the pool, but now with three points on the board, Francesco Calzona can see his side progress here.

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    The Ukrainian defence were shoddy at best last time out, and can expected to be tested again here.

    Bozenik will be hunting to open his Euro account on Friday and having proved a handful for the Belgians, the Boavista striker can all but send the Ukrainians packing.

     

    Romania vs Belgium – Denis Dragus – 4/1 (10Bet)

    Wrapping up Matchday 2, and sticking with Group E, Belgium are staring down the barrel as they face Romania in Cologne.

    By far the biggest casualty of Matchday 1, Domenico Tedesco’s men fell to Slovakia after Romelu Lukaku’s tour-de-force in profligacy.

    As a result, the Red Devils face a must-win game versus a Romania side who impressed in dismantling Ukraine.

    Belgium will surely have to come out with all guns blazing, but that could play into Romanian hands, with the Belgian defence looking shaky.

    The last of three men to net in Matchday 1, Denis Dragus put in a shift to begin the tournament and was rewarded with a tap-in from Dennis Man’s cut-back.

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    The nippy, diminutive striker, has been in solid form for Gaziantep in Turkey and looks a threat here.

    The same price as he was to net versus Ukraine, we have seen his ability to lead the line, and with Belgium having serious questions to answer, Dragus can add to his tally.

    Romania have often been blessed with talented players but cursed with the inability to gel; on Sunday, we finally saw it all come together. Can Romania roll on?

     

    Goalscorer Treble in total 111/1 with 10Bet.

     

    Matchday 2 of Euro 2024 begins on Wednesday.

  • Euro 2024 | BestofBets Matchday 1 punts

    Euro 2024 | BestofBets Matchday 1 punts

    So here we go. Another European Championship summer set to grip the continent and indeed, world football.

    With a schedule this time around more tightly packed than a tin of sardines, 50 games lie between Friday night’s curtain-raiser and the final.

    Three Matchdays, the last 16 and a more traditional quarter-and semi-final passage are the route to Berlin on July 14.

    This summer, we’ll be a taking a wider look at each round of the Euros, and picking our three punts to consider.

    So where better to start than with Matchday 1.

    Serbia vs England – Mitrovic To Score – 17/4

    England are many people’s favourites for Euro 2024, however, after their surprise loss to Iceland, there are questions to answer.

    The Three Lions’ progression out of Group C is surely not in question, but suddenly winning it is not a cakewalk.

    As an opening game of the summer, Serbia in Gelsenkirchen now looks awkward, not least facing one of the best – on paper – strike partnerships around.

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    Whilst Dusan Vlahovic’s form continues on a roller-coaster, Aleksandar Mitrovic can be lethal.

    Perhaps remarkably, this will be the first competitive meeting between the two sides are independent nations, but Mitrovic comes into this fresh from a goal against Sweden.

    He also netted an average of a goal a game in Saudi Pro for Al Hilal this term.

    England are overwhelming favourites to open their account with a win but given their apparent defensive issues on the left, at 17/4 with Unibet to score anytime, Mitrovic looks handy value.

    Turkey vs Georgia – Both Teams To Score – 11/10

    One of Matchday 1’s more intriguing opening encounters features something of a derby clash, as Turkey face neighbouring debutants Georgia in Dortmund.

    Having met fives during their short history, only once have Georgia failed to score, with goals shared on three occasions.

    The two sides last met 12 years ago, and though the Turks’ recent Euro record is chequered, they have ample firepower this summer.

    As Georgia do on their day, and a front three of Georges Mikautadze, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Budu Zivzivadze can be potent.

    The question is, will the Georgians be cautious in their first-ever major tournament outing?

    Perhaps, but we see both teams on the scoresheet to begin the Euros at 11/10 with Betfred.

    Hungary vs Switzerland – Szoboszlai to be carded – 7/1

    To round out Matchday 1, we jump back to Group A, as Hungary and Switzerland begin Sunday’s triple-header.

    The Swiss are quietly fancied to go well this summer, but face a tough start to their campaign against Nations League A opposition.

    Liverpool’s Dominik Szoboszlai will be central to Hungarian progression but though his goals have been huge, we have our eye on his more combative style.

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    Not only does the midfielder link up play, he is often the man to break up play for the opposition – often via illegal means.

    Though his price remains fairly lofty, Szoboszlai has been booked in three of the last seven games for Hungary and against Switzerland we are expecting a competitive contest.

    At 7/1 to be carded with QuinnBet, punters should consider adding this to their betslip

    Euro 2024 Matchday 1 begins on Friday.

  • Euro 2024 | 25/1 Havertz offers Golden Boot potential

    Euro 2024 | 25/1 Havertz offers Golden Boot potential

    As Euro 2024 kick-off week arrives, could Kai Havertz be in the argument for the Golden Boot this summer?

    With the football world gearing up for the 17th European Championships beginning on Friday, Germany host the Euros for first time as an independent nation.

    Here at BestofBets, not only do we have our eye on Die Mannschaft going far, but the Arsenal man being amongst the goals.

     

    Resurgent

    As Germany prepares to welcome Europe to their front door, their own ambitions are without doubt loftier than mere months ago.

    After the comedown from the heady days of the Low regime, Germany declined further under Hansi Flick, but now under Julian Nagelsmann, the Euro ’96 winners look in far better health.

    Despite winning just once in four games to end 2023, Nagelsmann then oversaw wins against France and the Netherlands.

    A goalless draw with Ukraine in tournament warm-up, the Germans then netted two more against Greece, and have now done so in seven of nine, pointing to a way back to life in front of goal for the ‘three stages of Nagels’.

     

    Maturing Havertz

    Their revitalisation is down in no small part to Kai Havertz.

    Despite struggles after moving to Chelsea from his native Bayer Leverkusen, the move to Arsenal – after initial widespread criticism – has been transformative.

    Under the tutelage of Mikel Arteta, Havertz has made the false number nine his own in North London and now for the national side.

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    Having scored in half of his last four, he has also started the last four up top.

    As it stands, Havertz looks locked in for the same role in the Euros, leaving Niclas Fullkrug as an impact sub.

    Even if Fullkrug comes on later in proceedings, Havertz looks one of the least likely candidates switched and his chances for significant game time is good.

     

    Stake £20 on William Hill’s Golden Boot market, and get a £5 FREE BET for EVERY time your player scores.

     

    Euro savvy

    The value of Havertz looks to be in Germany’s record in the Euros.

    The Germans have reached three of the last eight Euro finals, in spite of recent malaise.

    Placed with Scotland, Hungary and Switzerland could test the German mettle. However, if they top Group A, a mammoth last 16 clash with old rival England should be avoided.

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    Germany will start the tournament as 11/2 third favourites, but as hosts, home support can carry them far.

    Havertz will be instrumental to their progress this summer, and at 25/1 with 888sport, his price looks inviting.

     

    Euro 2024 kicks off on Friday 14 June as Germany face Scotland.

  • Euro 2024 qualifiers: Thursday night’s 11/1 goalscorer treble

    Euro 2024 qualifiers: Thursday night’s 11/1 goalscorer treble

    As international football resumes for the first time since the World Cup in Qatar, the opening round of qualifiers for Euro 2024 begin on Thursday night.

    With the competition just under 15 months away in Germany, punters will no doubt be on the goals trail.

    We’ve picked three goalscorers to find the net on opening night to build the perfect treble.

     

    Goncalo Ramos

    Two of our picks come from Group J.

    First, we look to Lisbon as Portugal entertain Liechtenstein and Goncalo Ramos looks a good bet to score.

    For the hosts, a potential goal fest could be on the menu as they face a side who have conceded at least twice in all of their last five games.

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    Beaten also 9-0 by Germany in November 2021, new boss Roberto Martinez will be looking to make an opening qualifiers statement.

    Admittedly at a very short price, Ramos looks primed to net with Cristiano Ronaldo still in tow.

    Lighting up the World Cup with a hat-trick against Switzerland, the Benfica striker has four in his last four league game also and Ramos looks set to be in the goals again.

     

    Vincenzo Grifo

    Needing some value to boost the treble, we next look to Vincenzo Grifo.

    As Roberto Mancini looks to inject fresh blood into his Italian set-up, Tigre prospect Mateo Retegui could make his international debut.

    However, the SC Freiburg man is our pick.

    With Italy meeting England for the third time in less than a year, the Azzurri winger is blossoming under the tutelage of Christian Streich in Germany.

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    Despite being taken down by Juventus in the Europa League, the Bundesliga side are on course for a Champions League spot, driven by Grifo.

    Sitting joint-second in the Bundesliga scoring charts alongside Christopher Nkunku and Marcus Thuram, the Italian forward has become a penalty king also.

    Already having scored four for his country, Grifo has two braces, most recently back in November away to Albania.

     

    Edin Dzeko

    Our third and final selection and our second pick from Group J focuses on Bosnia and Herzegovina and their still firing skipper, Edin Dzeko.

    Though he may not be in the best scoring form for Inter, Dzeko is remains the likeliest candidate to find the net for his country.

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    As Bosnia welcome Iceland to Zenica, Dzeko is set for a remarkable 127th cap on Thursday and has scored in over half of his last seven appearances.

    Netting in Bucharest in their final Nations League qualifiers game against Romania, Dzeko also grabbed a brace here at Bilino polje when last they played a home game.

     

    A goalscorer treble of Ramos, Grifo and Dzeko to score is 11/1 with Betfred.