Tag: Champions League betting odds lines picks predictions best bets

Manchester City vs. Borussia Dortmund odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Manchester City vs. Borussia Dortmund odds and lines, with Champions League picks and predictions.

Manchester City (1-0) welcomes Borussia Dortmund (1-0) to Etihad Stadium Wednesday. Kickoff is set for 3 p.m. ET. Below, we preview Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Manchester City vs. Borussia Dortmund odds, and make our best Champions League bets, picks and predictions.

Manchester City, who won the English Premier League last season, kicked off their Champions League group stage round with a 4-0 win over Sevilla.

Superstar F Erling Haaland, who has 10 goals in 6 games, will be facing his former club, Dortmund. Haaland is the attacking stud with M Kevin de Bruyne still controlling the middle of the pitch.

As for Dortmund, they’ve actually had success in the Bundesliga this season, sitting 5th in the league. They also kicked off their Champions League campaign by toppling Copenhagen 3-0.

Their roster is different without Haaland, but their long-time M Marco Reus is still the leader and has a team-high 2 goals in 6 matches. Dortmund only has 8 goals in those 6 games.

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Manchester City vs. Borussia Dortmund odds

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Tuesdat at 7:22  p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Manchester City -520 (bet $520 to win $100) | Borussia Dortmund +1200 (bet $100 to win $1,200) | Draw +650
  • Over/Under: 3.5 (O: -122 | U: -102)

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Prediction

Manchester City 2, Borussia Dortmund 0

Money line (ML)

PASS.

Manchester City is the favorite for a reason, and while I believe Dortmund will give them a good, tough match, the home side should prevail. At -520, there’s not much reason to back them.

The only value on the money line is a draw at +650 as City did lose twice in the group stage a season ago and will be vulnerable to a team undoubtedly set to play well with their former teammate on the pitch.

Nonetheless, I’d preferably play the total here.

Over/Under (O/U)

BET UNDER 3.5 (-102).

Most groups in the Champions League have 2 competitive teams and 2 that aren’t quite at the level of the other 2. Dortmund and City are by far the best teams in this group.

Last season City had PSG in their group, and both of those matches went under 3.5 total goals with City having under 2 expected goals in each. Dortmund has only allowed 7 goals in 5 Bundesliga games.

German D Mats Hummels is one of the best centerbacks in the world and should be able to lock down his former teammate. Dortmund has gone under this total in 4 straight matches and in 6 of 8 throughout all competitions.

City has also failed to top 3 expected goals in a competitive match this season. I expect this to be competitive with Dortmund having played well. They should challenge City enough to limit their scoring.

Considering Dortmund’s weakness scoring as well mixed with City having 4 shutouts in 8 matches throughout all competitions, I’ll take the UNDER 3.5 (-102).

Check out Pro Soccer Wire: For the American soccer fan, USA TODAY Sports Media Group’s website provides a fresh look at the beautiful game.

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, SportsbookWire’s official sportsbook partner in CO and NJ. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

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Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO).

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Bayern Munich vs. Barcelona odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Bayern Munich vs. Barcelona odds and lines, with Champions League picks and predictions.

Bayern Munich (1-0) welcomes Barcelona (1-0) to Allianz Arena Tuesday with kickoff set for 3 p.m. ET. Below, we preview Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Bayern Munich vs. Barcelona odds, and make our best Champions League bets, picks and predictions.

Bayern Munich is coming into this match having drawn 3 of their last 5 matches in all competitions. They beat Inter Milan 2-0 to kick off the Champions League group stage round.

Bayern sits 3-0-3 in Bundesliga competition and is expected to win the league. Bayern’s big-time addition this offseason was Liverpool F Sadio Mane, who has 3 goals so far this season.

Barcelona will enter this match having won 5 of their 6 competitions this season. They’re No. 1 in La Liga. They beat Viktoria Plzeň in their first UCL group stage match 5-1.

The roadside is led by F Robert Lewandowski with 6 goals this season. This will be the long-time Bayern forward’s 1st match against his old club which will undoubtedly be a talking point leading into the match.

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Bayern Munich vs. Barcelona odds

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Monday at 9:39 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Bayern Munich -115 (bet $115 to win $100) | Barcelona +255 (bet $100 to win $255) | Draw +330
  • Over/Under: 3.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)

Claim your risk-free bet up to $350. Catch the excitement and start betting with Tipico Sportsbook! New customer offer in CO and NJ. 21+, see Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. Bet now!

Prediction

Bayern Munich 2, Barcelona 2

Money line (ML)

LEAN DRAW (+330).

The value for a draw is there.

Despite having had more expected goals than their opponent, Bayern hasn’t been able to win as of late. They’ve drawn 3 of 5 and didn’t even look overly dominant against Inter.

Considering Barcelona’s form in both league play and in the UCL along with the impact that Lewandowski will undoubtedly have, they should be able to keep pace with Bayern.

Bayern beat Barcelona a combined 6-0 in group stage matches last season, but these teams are drastically different and those changes should bode well for the surging road side.

I’d back them to get some kind of result here, and a DRAW (+340) has the best value.

Over/Under (O/U)

BET OVER 3.5 (-108).

Barcelona drew Rayo Vallecano 0-0 in their 1st league match of the season. Since then they have had at least 3 goals in each match. In 4 of 6 games, Barcelona has scored 4 or more.

Lewandowski is a club-changing player, and his impact has drastically impacted their offense. He should be able to find success against his former team.

Bayern has scored at least 2 goals in 7 of 9 matches this season with Mane being incredibly helpful to the team’s pace. Both have quick, dynamic attacks and should be able to break through.

Check out Pro Soccer Wire: For the American soccer fan, USA TODAY Sports Media Group’s website provides a fresh look at the beautiful game.

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, SportsbookWire’s official sportsbook partner in CO and NJ. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

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Inter Milan vs. Bayern Munich odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Inter Milan vs. Bayern Munich odds and lines, with Champions League picks and predictions.

Inter Milan will host Bayern Munich to help kick off the first round of matchups in the UEFA Champions League. Kickoff from San Siro is set for 3 p.m. ET Wednesday. Below, we preview the Inter Milan vs. Bayern Munich odds and lines, and make our best Champions League bets, picks and predictions.

The 1st round of group stage matches commenced Tuesday with PSG, Man City, Dortmund, and Real Madrid all coming away with 3 points. Chelsea lost 1-0 to Dinamo Zagreb.

The 2nd day of matches features teams like Tottenham, Liverpool, Atletico Madrid and Bayern Munich. Bayern is among the favorites to hoist the Champions League trophy.

Bayern won the Bundesliga, Germany’s top league, last season and sits tied for 3rd place. However, they have the top goal differential (14) through 3 matches with the next closest at 8. Bayern lost star F Robert Lewandowski this offseason, replacing him with former Liverpool F Sadio Mane.

Inter sits tied for 7th in Serie A, the top Italian league. They have won 3 matches and lost 2 with a plus-3 goal differential. Their top scorer this season is 25-year-old Argentinian F Lautaro Martínez.

World class soccer coverage all in one place: Get ESPN+

Inter Milan vs. Bayern Munich odds, lines, picks and predictions

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Tuesday at 6:38 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Inter Milan +290 (bet $100 to win $290) | Bayern Munich -122 (bet $122 to win $100) | Draw +310
  • Over/Under: 3.5 (O: +115 | U: -145)

[tipico]

Check out Pro Soccer Wire: For the American soccer fan, USA TODAY Sports Media Group’s website provides a fresh look at the beautiful game.

Prediction

Bayern Munich 3, Inter Milan 1

Money line (ML)

BET BAYERN MUNICH (-122).

Inter will be at home, and in league play this season that’s guaranteed them a win. However, Bayern is going to be a different beat, one I don’t think their 38-year-old GK Samir Handanović will be able to keep up with.

Bayern won every group stage game last season, beating Barcelona a combined 6-0 and Benfica a combined 9-2.

While they’re a different offensive team without Lewandowski, Mane has provided unmatched speed on the edge which has helped reap early dividends in league play.

The lone top-5 Serie A side Inter has faced it lost — 3-2 last Saturday against AC Milan. With such a talented side coming into town, I expect similar struggles.

Over/Under (O/U)

BET OVER 3.5 (+115).

Inter is a side that is going to allow goals.

They’ve allowed 1.6 goals per game while at home this season, an alarming rate. Bayern should be able to take advantage and did so last season, averaging almost 4 goals per game in the group stage matches.

They’re averaging 3.4 goals per game in league play. However, while Bayern has a top defense, Inter should be able to break through with star F Romelu Lukaku.

Lukaku and Martinez are capable of getting the home side on the board. They have scored in every league game so far and should be able to keep that streak alive.

Combine it all, and I like the Over 3.5 (+115).

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO and NJ. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

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Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO).

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England vs. Italy odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s England vs. Italy odds and lines, with Champions League picks and predictions.

England (0 wins, 1 loss, 1 draw) welcomes Italy (1-1-0) to Molineux Stadium in Wolverhampton, England Saturday. Kickoff for the 3rd of 6 group stage games is set for 2:45 p.m. ET. Below, we preview the England vs. Italy odds and lines, and make our best UEFA Nations League bets, picks and predictions.

The two global soccer powerhouses will highlight just a handful of premier games in the 3rd round of the group stage. Italy failed to qualify for the 2022 Qatar World Cup but still sits 6th on FIFA’s men’s rankings.

Italy is led by M Nicolò Barella, who scored the winning goal against Hungary in a 2-1 Tuesday. Italy drew Germany 1-1 in its 1st game (June 4).

England sit 5th in the world and will play in a group with Iran, USA, and Wales in the November World Cup.

England is led by F Harry Kane but has struggled in Nations League play. Chelsea M Mason Mount and Manchester City F Raheem Sterling help highlight the elite English attack.

Check out Pro Soccer Wire: For the American soccer fan, USA TODAY Sports Media Group’s website provides a fresh look at the beautiful game.

England vs. Italy odds, lines, picks and predictions

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 8:37 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: England -105 (bet $105 to win $100) | Italy +330 (bet $100 to win $330) | Draw +230
  • Over/Under: 2.5 (O: +122 | U: -150)

[tipico]

Prediction

Italy 1, England 1

Money line (ML)

LEAN DRAW (+230).

While I like the draw in this match, I also wouldn’t mind combining the draw and Italy to win at -122.

The home side is the far favorite, but England hasn’t played like it as of late. England lost to Hungary 1-0 by a penalty June 4 and only drew Germany 1-1 Tuesday because of a penalty.

England had fewer shots than Hungary and was out possessed by Germany 63% to 37%. England just hasn’t shown much despite being one of the better teams in the world.

Italy, on the other hand, doesn’t have a World Cup to play for. This is it. Italy has many young, up-and-coming prospects that have already started to show promise.

I expect Italy, as it has proven, to keep this game competitive.

Over/Under (O/U)

BET UNDER 2.5 (-150).

This is by far the best bet in this match. It’s worth the extra bit of juice. England’s first 2 games saw scores of 1-0 and 1-1 – with 2 of the 3 goals being penalty kicks.

Italy’s first 2 games were 1-1 and 2-1, but the lone Hungary goal in the 2-1 loss to Italy was an own goal.

The Nations League games just haven’t been high scoring, and I wouldn’t bank that this one is either.

Also, as mentioned Italy has a young team and doesn’t have a player on its current roster that has more than 10 goals and no player has more than 50 caps.

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and soon IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

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Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

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Denmark vs. Croatia odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s Denmark vs. Croatia odds and lines, with Champions League picks and predictions.

Denmark (2 wins, 0 losses, 0 draws) welcomes Croatia (0-1-1) to Parken Stadium in Copenhagen, Denmark Friday. Kickoff for the 3rd of 6 group stage games is set for 2:45 p.m. ET. Below, we preview the Denmark vs. Croatia odds and lines, and make our best UEFA Nations League bets, picks and predictions.

Denmark has had a highly impressive stretch of play so far in the Nations League. They beat France 2-1 and Austria 2-1 as well. Their opponents respectively rank 3rd and 34th in the world per FIFA.

Denmark sits 11th and has already qualified for the 2022 Qatar World Cup. Andreas Cornelius, who has 39 caps for the senior team, is leading the side in scoring with 2 of their 4 goals.

As for Croatia, the opposite can be said as they’ve uncharacteristically struggled. Croatia lost 3-0 to Austria as star M Luka Modrić, who plays for the Champions League-winning Real Madrid, subbed on in the second half.

Croatia was already down 3-0 at that point. Modric started in a 1-1 draw with France, the more impressive outing for Croatia. The road side will enter as a heavy underdog but does sit 16th in the world ranking.

Check out Pro Soccer Wire: For the American soccer fan, USA TODAY Sports Media Group’s website provides a fresh look at the beautiful game.

Denmark vs. Croatia odds, lines, picks and predictions

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:20 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Denmark -110 (bet $110 to win $100) | Croatia +320 (bet $100 to win $320) | Draw +250
  • Over/Under: 2.5 (O: +105 | U: -130)

[tipico]

Prediction

Denmark 1, Croatia 1

Money line (ML)

LEAN DRAW +250.

Croatia didn’t play well against Austria, but they did put on a show against France, having as many shots on goal as the global’s 3rd-best side.

Modric makes that much of a difference. They drew France. Although Denmark defeated France, they had fewer shots on goal. Croatia advanced out of their group in the 2021 Euro 2020.

The Croatian midfield with Modric and Chelsea’s M Mateo Kovačić is no joke, and with Modric now rested after his club’s Champions League run, Croatia should be able to put up a fight.

Denmark has fewer players on top-tier European sides, and Leicester City D Jannik Vestergaard might be their most notable. He has helped to hold opponents to just 2 goals.

These teams have less splitting them apart than their spots on the table. I’ll take a DRAW +250 for a partial unit.

Over/Under (O/U)

BET UNDER 2.5 (-130).

Denmark’s defense has allowed just 2 goals with Austria having just 1 shot on target yet they managed to put that one in the back of the net. France had just 1 goal as well.

Croatia gave up 3 to Austria then had a 1-1 draw with France.

Both sides have a solid midfield that should be able to control the game. Each, especially Denmark, has shown an ability to contain their opponents as well.

Four of Croatia’s 5 2021 matches against top-36 opponents went under 2.5 goals.  While Denmark is a strong scoring side, they’ve had 16 shots through the 2 games.

The UNDER 2.5 (-130) is my favorite bet in this battle.

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and soon IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow @nathanbeighle_ on Twitter. Follow @SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

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Real Madrid vs. Manchester City odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Real Madrid vs. Manchester Cit odds and lines, with Champions League picks and predictions.

Real Madrid welcomes Manchester City to the Santiago Bernabéu Wednesday for the second leg of the UEFA Champions League semifinal. Kickoff is set for 3 p.m. ET (CBS). Below, we preview the Real Madrid vs. Manchester City odds and lines, and make our best Champions League bets, picks and predictions.

Real Madrid blasted the EPL-best Man City defense for 3 goals in the first leg. However its defense, which is among the best in La Liga, allowed 4 goals, and it now trails by 1 in aggregate. Liverpool awaits the winner.

The first leg was an instant classic with City owning 60% of the possession. It ended with 16 shots and 6 on target compared to Real’s 11 shots and 5 on target.

Real is led by F Karim Benzema who has 26 goals in 29 starts. He had 2 goals including a penalty kick in the first leg. Madrid is 5-4 on aggregate in its 2 knockout stage home matches.

City is coming in off a 4-0 win over Leeds United last weekend, resolidifying its lead in the EPL. M Kevin De Bruyne is the key player for City and 1 of 3 with 10-plus goals on the season.

Real Madrid vs. Manchester City odds, lines, picks and predictions

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 12:26 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Real Madrid +210 (bet $100 to win $210) | Manchester City +112 (bet $100 to win $112) | Draw +290
  • Over/Under: 3.5 (O: +115| U: -145)

[tipico]

Prediction

Real Madrid 1, Manchester City 1

Money line (ML)

LEAN DRAW +290.

City played PSG twice in the group stage and took on Atletico Madrid in the quarterfinals. It lost to PSG 2-0 and also drew Atletico 0-0 on the road. In UEFA action, it hasn’t been as dominant away from Ethiad.

City is the better team, but Madrid showed some talent and pace in the first leg. They were still out-possessed. It’ll be tough for them to control this game, but after Leg 1, they proved they can at least compete.

In La Liga action, which is no comparison to EPL’s level, Real has lost just once in 17 games. Madrid is a strong side at home and should put up a fight, and the draw possesses the best value on the money line.

Over/Under (O/U)

BET UNDER 3.5 (-145).

The teams combined for 7 goals in the first leg and it was not expected. They scored 7 goals on 11 combined shots on target. That’s a rarity.

It doesn’t help that they combined for just 4.1 expected goals. I gave out the under in the first leg, and I’ll go back to it here. City’s defense has given up just 21 goals in 34 games.

In all other knockout stage games (4 in total), City held its opponents scoreless. Madrid is the best offense they’ll face, but their defense, which should have D Kyle Walker active, will be better prepared.

Madrid has also allowed just .85 goals per game. With City a possession-heavy club behind its dominant midfield, it should be able to keep the ball and work it, especially up on aggregate.

Take the UNDER 3.5 (-145).

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and soon IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow @nathanbeighle_ on Twitter. Follow @SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

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UEFA Champions League: Villarreal vs. Liverpool odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Villarreal vs. Liverpool odds and lines, with Champions League picks and predictions.

Villarreal welcomes Liverpool to El Madrigal Tuesday for the second leg of their UEFA Champions League semifinal. Kickoff is set for 3 p.m. ET. Below, we preview the Villarreal vs. Liverpool odds and lines, and make our best Champions League bets, picks and predictions.

Villarreal lost 2-0 in the first leg. Liverpool was able to get a strong win, dominating for most of the game.

Led by F Mohamed Salah, Liverpool totaled 19 shots, putting just 5 on goal. Its defense, which has allowed the second-fewest goals in EPL play, held Villarreal without a shot on goal. Liverpool had 73% of possession.

Liverpool got to this point by beating Inter 2-1 on aggregate and Benfica 6-4. The EPL’s second-place team averages 2.53 goals per game and allows 0.65 per game.

Villarreal sits 7th on the La Liga table and is also led by a rock-solid defense. It averages 1.59 goals per game while giving up 0.97. Offensively, Villarreal is led by 25-year-old F Arnaut Groeneveld.

Villarreal vs. Liverpool odds, lines, picks and predictions

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Monday at 10:12 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Villarreal +360 (bet $100 to win $360) | Liverpool -140 (bet $140 to win $100) | Draw +310
  • Over/Under: 2.5 (O: -155 | U: +122)

[tipico]

Prediction

Liverpool 1, Villarreal 1

Money line (ML)

LEAN to the DRAW +310.

There’s absolutely no doubt that Liverpool is the more talented team. However, it hasn’t played well when up in a 2-game series and on the road for the second leg.

It was up 2-0 on Inter and lost 1-0. It was up 3-1 on Benfica and drew 3-3. As for Villarreal, it has 2 league losses at home in 17 games.

Sure, Liverpool is a different beast, but it may be looking to possession more than usual which could weaken its desire to push ahead for a winning goal.

Villarreal drew Bayern Munich 1-1 and beat Juventus 3-0 at home. It hasn’t played well in league play on the road, but it has been terrific at home in both UEFA action and La Liga action.

I expect that to continue Tuesday as well. I’d rather play the draw than the Villarreal money line, though as I do expect Liverpool to keep the energy and poise high.

Over/Under (O/U)

BET the UNDER 2.5 (+122).

We gave this out for Leg 1 at +120, and it connected with the Liverpool 2-0 win.

I again expect Liverpool’s top-tier defense, led by D Virgil van Djik, one of the world’s best defenders, to limit Villarreal. Although Villarreal is better at home, it had zero shots on goal in the first leg.

I do not expect them to score at will despite being better at home. Also, Liverpool has had 3 of its 5 Group Stage games go under 3 goals. At plus-money value, I like the Under here.

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and soon IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow @nathanbeighle_ on Twitter. Follow @SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

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UEFA Champions League: Liverpool vs. Villarreal odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Liverpool vs. Villarreal odds and lines, with Champions League picks and predictions.

Liverpool welcomes Villarreal to Anfield Wednesday for the first leg of its UEFA Champions League semifinal matchup. Kickoff is set for 3 p.m. ET. Below, we preview the Liverpool vs. Villarreal odds and lines, and make our best Champions League bets, picks and predictions.

Liverpool and Villarreal will try to live up to the same excitement as the other Champions League semifinal first leg, won by Manchester City 4-3 over Real Madrid.

Villarreal has knocked out both Juventus and Bayern Munich. It beat Bayern 2-1 on aggregate and Juventus 4-2 on aggregate.

Villarreal sits 7th on the La Liga table and is led by its defense which allows just .94 goals per game. It is led in scoring by 25-year-old Dutch F Arnaut Groeneveld, who has 10 goals in 23 league matches played.

Liverpool leads the EPL in scoring behind the league-leading F Mohamed Salah, who has 22 goals in 31 matches.

Liverpool knocked out Benfica 6-4 on aggregate in the quarterfinals and Inter 2-1 on aggregate in the Round of 16. It sits second in the EPL, having scored the most goals (85) and allowed the second-fewest (22).

Liverpool vs. Villarreal odds, lines, picks and predictions

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 12:32 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Liverpool -280 (bet $290 to win $100) | Villarreal +750 (bet $100 to win $750) | Draw +420
  • Over/Under: 2.5 (O: -150 | U: +120)

[tipico]

Prediction

Liverpool 2, Villarreal 0

Money line (ML)

PASS.

Liverpool is the heavy favorite in this battle, and rightfully so.

I wouldn’t bet on them at -280, but I certainly wouldn’t bet against them either. Typically, I then look at the “both teams to score” odds, and you can get both teams to not score at -135, a price I don’t find much value in.

I’d prefer to play the total here.

Over/Under (O/U)

BET the UNDER 2.5 (+120).

Villarreal has proven during its Champions League run that it is capable defensively.

In league play, it’s continued that trend. Against Bayern Munich, one of the best-attacking teams in the world, it allowed 1 goal through  2 games.

It drew Real Madrid, who City allowed 3 goals to Tuesday, 0-0 in both league matches and also drew Chelsea 1-1 through 120 before losing in penalty kicks. Its defense is sound and should be able to limit Liverpool.

The same can be said of the home side as Liverpool has allowed .67 goals per game in league play. Against Inter and Atletico Madrid, arguably the two  best teams is has played in the Champions League, the Under 2.5 was 3-1.

This match should be a bit more slow paced for Liverpool than it was against Benfica, and for the value, I like the Under.

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and soon IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow @nathanbeighle_ on Twitter. Follow @SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

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UEFA Champions League: Manchester City vs. Real Madrid odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Manchester City vs. Real Madrid odds and lines, with Champions League picks and predictions.

In the first of a two-leg UEFA Champions League semifinal, Manchester City will welcome Real Madrid to Etihad Stadium Tuesday. Kickoff is set for 3 p.m. ET. Below, we preview the Manchester City vs. Real Madrid odds and lines, and make our best Champions League bets, picks and predictions.

Manchester City comes in with confidence as it hosts the La Liga-leading Real. City has won 2 straight games by at least 3 goals, over Brighton 3-0 and Watford 5-1.

City is backed by arguably the best midfield in the world, Kevin de Bruyne. Unlike PSG, who Real knocked out earlier in the tournament, City is going to want to possess. It leads the EPL in touches by more than 1,500.

Real will be tasked with slowing down the EPL-leading City. Madrid averages 2.09 goals per game in league play, and its strength comes defensively, allowing just .88. City averages 2.42 goals per match in league play and has allowed only 21 goals in 33 matches.

Real beat Paris Saint-Germain 3-2 in their 2 matches and then Chelsea 5-4. It’s had by far the most impressive journey to the final four. Madrid is led by F Karim Benzema, who has scored 25 goals in 29 matches.

Manchester City vs. Real Madrid odds, lines, picks and predictions

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:16 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Manchester City -200 (bet $200 to win $100) | Real Madrid +500 (bet $100 to win $500) | Draw +360
  • Over/Under: 2.5 (O: -155| U: +122)

[tipico]

Prediction

Manchester City 1, Real Madrid 0

Money line (ML)

PASS.

Manchester City is the better side, and in EPL action it is 13-2-2 at home. Real is 13-2-2 on the road in La Liga, a lesser competitive league.

With how Real has played other top teams, betting on City to win at -200 is not smart. A draw at +360 has value, but I’d rather look elsewhere to bet on this highly anticipated battle.

One other bet I like is BOTH TEAMS NOT TO SCORE at -105.

I love this because of the pace City plays with. They’ll kick it around, work it to the middle and attack with accuracy and poise.

However, it’s their possession that kills. Athletico Madrid didn’t score in 2 games and had just 1.1 expected goals through both. City hasn’t allowed a single goal through 4 knockout-stage games.

Also, Real had 9 shots on goal through 2 games against Chelsea, scoring 5 of them. That 5-to-9 ratio isn’t sustainable. It allowed 12 shots on goal through those 2 games and has allowed the second-fewest goals allowed in La Liga.

This should be a defensive-heavy battle.

Over/Under (O/U)

BET the UNDER 2.5 (+122).

Considering the above analysis, I also like the Under here. City is going to want to keep this game slow as its both the first leg and at home. Three of City’s 4 knockout-stage games have had under 1.5 goals scored.

While that’s a risky proposition, one can take under 1.5 at +320.

Real is 3-3 O/U the 2.5 in matches against Round of 16 opponents. Given how the more dominant side is going to want to play, expect the Under to be the better play.

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and soon IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow @nathanbeighle_ on Twitter. Follow @SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

[lawrence-newsletter]

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Atletico Madrid vs. Manchester City odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Atletico Madrid vs. Manchester City odds and lines, with Champions League picks and predictions.

Atletico Madrid hosts Manchester City at the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium Wednesday for the second leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals. Kickoff is set for 3 p.m. ET. Below, we preview the Atletico Madrid vs. Manchester City odds and lines, and make our best Champions League bets, picks and predictions.

Last week, Atletico traveled to Etihad Stadium to take on Manchester City in the first leg. City ended with 15 shots and 2 on target while not allowing Atletico to have a single attempt.

City controlled the entire game and ended with a 70/30 possession split. It was a dominant showing from the home side, but it won just 1-0, a result that Atletico can certainly come back from.

Atletico sits 4th in La Liga play and is coming off a 1-0 loss to Mallorca, which sits 17th on the table. This season, Atletico has scored 57 goals and allowed 38 in 31 league matches.

As for City, it is coming off an absolutely thrilling 2-2 draw with Liverpool. M Kevin de Bruyne and F Gabriel Jesus both scored for City, which almost doubled Liverpool’s shots. City has allowed just 20 goals through 31 EPL matches.

Atletico Madrid vs. Manchester City: Odds, picks and predictions

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Tuesday at 8:15 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Atletico Madrid +370 (bet $100 to win $370) | Manchester City -127 (bet $127 to win $100) | Draw +260
  • Over/Under: 2.5 (O: +105 | U: -130)

[tipico]

Prediction

Manchester City 1, Atletico Madrid 1

Money line (ML)

LEAN to the DRAW +260.

Manchester City looked dominant in its first showing, and it, by all means, should be able to get through to the next round, but it won’t be as easy on the road.

In 16 road games, Madrid has 24 points. In 15 home games, it has 33. It has been a far better side at home. That should be reflected in its play against City.

Atletico is a better club than it showed in the first leg. It eliminated Man U to start the knockout round.

While zero shots are concerning, at home, the only way to play this is the draw as betting on either Man City on the road or both teams not to score doesn’t result in nearly enough bang for your buck.

Over/Under (O/U)

BET the UNDER 2.5 (-130).

There’s no other way to look at this.

Man City played a 2-2 draw with Liverpool because it couldn’t tame the elite attacking trio. While I expect a better showing from Madrid, it certainly isn’t on the same level as Liverpool.

4 of Madrid’s last 5 games throughout all competition went under 2.5 goals. All 3 Champions League knockout-stage games went under 3 goals as well with 2 of those 3 being just 1-0 results.

City has gone Under 2.5 goals in 6 of its last 9 games as well, including 2 of its 3 Champions League knockout stage games. Overall, it’s the better side of the total, especially at this value.

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and soon IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow @nathanbeighle_ on Twitter. Follow @SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

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