France betting odds line spread pick predictions best bets

Women’s basketball gold medal game: USA vs. France odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s USA vs. France odds and lines, with wommen’s basketball expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

Team USA and France meet in the 2024 Summer Olympics women’s basketball gold medal game at Accor Arena in Paris Sunday at 9:30 a.m. ET (NBC / Peacock / Universo). Let’s analyze FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines for USA vs. France, and make our expert Summer Olympic picks and predictions.

Team USA cruised by Australia 85-64 in a semifinal Friday two days after defeated Nigeria 88-74 in a quarterfinal. The Americans are 5-0, wining each game by 13 or more points, with the closest margin coming against Belgium (87-74) in group play.

It was a balanced effort against the Aussies Friday as Team USA shot 50.0% (34 of6 8) from the field, including 41.2% (7 of 17) from downtown. USA was especially good from the free-throw line, hitting 90.9% (10 of 11). USA also had a plus-12 rebounding margin, which more than made up for a minus-1 in turnover differential.

F Breanna Stewart went for a game-high 16 points on 6-of-12 shooting with 6 rebounds 5 assists. G Jackie Young added 14 points and 5 assists, G Kahleah Copper finished with 11 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists, while C A’ja Wilson had 10 points, 8 rebounds and 4 blocks.

France needed overtime to dispatch pesky Belgium its 81-75 semifinal win. After spanking Canada and Nigeria by identical 75-54 scores in the first 2 group games, France lost to Australia 79-72, before powering past Germany 84-71 in the quarters.

Against Belgium, F Gabby Williams led the way with 18 points on 5-of-13 shooting, while she was an efficient 7 of 7 from the stripe. France had 4 players score in double digits, although it was an awful 29.9% (23 of 77) from the field, while going just 22.6% (7 of 31) behind the 3-point line. Against Team USA, that simply won’t cut it.

USA vs. France odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:04 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): USA -2500 (bet $2,500 to win $100) | France +1040 (bet $100 to win $1,040)
Against the spread (ATS): USA -15.5 (-118) | France +15.5 (-104)
Over/Under (O/U): 155.5 (O: -112 | U: -110)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

USA vs. France picks and predictions

Prediction

USA 89, France 71

Moneyline

Team USA (-2500) is not going to be denied a gold medal. It has too strong of a squad. The French side (+1040) isn’t close to being as deep as the American side. Team USA could substitute all 5 players on the floor and it would still have a better lineup vs. France as the Americans features a cast of competitive WNBA stars and legends of the game.

PASS on a ML play.

Against the spread

Team USA -15.5 (-118) will be in hostile territory for the gold medal game as the home crowd will obviously be pro-France. But, it won’t matter. The crowd isn’t playing, and B-Stew, A’ja and company are just too talented — and too big — to not get the job done.

France barely escaped against Belgium and it lost to Australia. USA’s closest games have been by 13 and 14 points. It might be a close game for the 1st half, but look for the Americans to pull away in the 2nd half to win comfortably, perhaps by 20 or more points if the 3’s start falling.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Over/Under

The OVER 155.5 (-112) is a good bet. Team USA has scored 85 or more points in all 5 games in Paris. The Americans have been fairly consistent on defense, too, holding 2 opponents under 69 points and allowing 75 or more points just once it its 5 outings.

France has turned up the offense a little in the quarterfinals and semifinals, averaging 82.5 PPG, although the Belgium game did go to OT to bump that average up a little bit. France has allowed 71 or more points in the past 3 games, too, and that average is about to get a whole lot worse against the talented Americans.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

If you are looking to get a wager down on this game, check out the BetMGM bonus code SBWIRE offer first, sign up and cash in on a huge welcome offer.

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

More USA TODAY Summer Olympics coverage:
News | Medal count | Meet Team USA

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=42461]

Men’s basketball gold medal game: USA vs. France odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s USA vs. France odds and lines, with men’s basketball expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

In the 2024 Summer Olympics men’s basketball gold medal game, USA and France meet Saturday at 3:30 p.m. ET (NBC/Peacock/Universo). The match takes place at Accor Arena in Paris, France. Let’s analyze FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines for USA vs. France, and make our expert Summer Olympic picks and predictions.

Team USA had to dig deep and pass a stern test from C Nikola Jokic and the Serbian National Team in Thursday’s semifinal win. USA won 110-84 against the Serbs in group play, but it was a much different story in the semis.

USA trailed 31-23 after the 1st quarter, 54-43 at halftime and 76-63 after the 3rd quarter. However, the Americans regrouped and outscored the Serbs 32-15 in the final quarter to escape for a chance at gold.

The Americans shot 57.4% (35 of 61) from the field, and 50% (16 of 32) from behind the arc, while allowing Serbia to outrebound them 34 to 33. The Americans did themselves no favors at the free-throw line, either, hitting just 64.3% (9 of 14) while turning it over 10 times to just 7 for the Serbs.

If USA secures gold, it’s due to the heroics of G Stephen Curry. He was unconscious from downtown, hitting 9 of 14 on 3-pointers, finishing with 36 points, 8 rebounds, 2 assists and 1 steal.

For France, it outlasted Germany 73-69 in the semifinals to punch its ticket to the final, avenging an 85-71 loss to the Germans in the group finale on Aug. 2. In addition, France surprised Canada 82-73 in the quarterfinals, covering both outings as an underdog.

In the semis, France had 4 players go for 10 or more points, including C Victor Wembanyama, who finished with 11 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists and 3 blocked shots. However, he shot a dismal 4 of 17 from the field.

The USA team is averaging 106.8 points per game (PPG) in 5 games in Paris while allowing just 86.2 PPG. On the flip side, France has scored 85 or fewer points in 4 of 5 games in these Olympics.

USA vs. France odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:15 a.m. ET.

2-way moneyline (ML): USA -1800 (bet $1,800 to win $100) | France +880 (bet $100 to win $880)
2-way spread: USA -16 (-112) | France +16.5 (-108)
Over/Under (O/U): 175.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

USA vs. France picks and predictions

Prediction

USA 103, France 82

Moneyline

USA (-1800) is going to get the job done in the gold medal game, but you can’t risk 18 times your potential return. There is never a good reason to bet such a heavy favorite with so much risk.

The Americans played their worst game of the tournament against one of the best players in the world in Jokic. After being down entering the 4th quarter, USA kicked it into gear and got the job done. The scare will propel this Dream Team version to glory.

PASS.

2-way line/Against the spread

After USA -16 (-112) struggled for a majority of the semifinals contest with Serbia, the 1st thought might be to back the host nation France +16 (-108). However, the Serbs have the Joker, while the French have a talented big in Wembanyama, but he is still relatively young, and he can’t take over the entire game against a stacked team of NBA players like Jokic.

The alarm clock went off for the Americans in the 4th quarter of the semis, and you can expect they’ll go off in this game and get the job done, hitting the century mark once more.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Over/Under

The OVER 175.5 (-105) is a strong play, as the USA team will hit triple digits again. This offense is so good, and it will be able to take advantage of France, especially when Wembanyama is on the bench getting a breather.

Again, Team USA has averaged 106.8 PPG in 5 Olympic games, and that’s what is driving this Over play. The worry is if France can get into the 80s to make it a comfortable afternoon.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

More USA TODAY Summer Olympics coverage:
News | Medal count | Meet Team USA

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=42461]

Men’s soccer gold medal match: France vs. Spain odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s France vs. Spain odds and lines, with expert Olympics men’s soccer picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

Spain battles France in the men’s soccer gold medal match Friday at Parc des Princes in Paris. Kickoff is set for noon p.m. ET (Peacock, USA Network, Telemundo). Below, we preview FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines around the France vs. Spain odds, and make our expert Summer Olympic picks and predictions.

France has had an impressive run in the Olympics. It opened up the group stage with a 3-0 shutout of the USMNT and continued its dominance with a 1-0 win vs. Guinea and a 3-0 blanking of New Zealand. France took down Argentina 1-0 in a heated quarterfinal battle before defeating Egypt 3-1 in extra time in a semifinal. F Jean-Philippe Mateta leads the host nation with 4 goals its 5 games.

Spain hasn’t been as impressive but still won when it needed to. It beat Uzbekistan 2-1 and the Dominican Republic 3-1 in its first 2 group stage matches before losing 2-1 to Egypt. In the knockout rounds, Spain shut out Japan 3-0 in the quarterfinals and took down Morocco 2-1 in the semifinals. Spain has been led by 21-year-old Barcelona F Fermin Lopez, who has 4 goals in 5 games as well.

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

France vs. Spain odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 4:49 a.m. ET.

Moneyline: France +140 (bet $100 to win $140) | Spain +210 (bet $100 to win $210) | Draw +200
Over/Under: 2.5 (O: +126 | U: -170)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

France vs. Spain picks and predictions

Prediction

France 1, Spain 0

Moneyline (ML)

TAKE FRANCE (+140).

Simply put, Spain hasn’t looked nearly as impressive as France. Spain trailed Morocco 1-0 in its semifinal match until Lopez scored the equalizer in the 65th minute. Twenty minutes later, MF Juanlu Sanchez scored the game winner. Both teams had 14 shots, while Spain had a 5-1 advantage in shots on goal. Spain also came up short against Egypt in the group stage, having 4 fewer shots on goal and 4 fewer shots in general in that match.

While France recorded clean sheets in its first 4 matches, it did give up a goal and trailed 1-0 in its semifinal victory vs. Egypt before hitting the equalizer in the 83rd minute. France would score twice in extra time to advance to this gold medal match. The French had an dominant win over the USMNT, a team that also made the knockout stage. Expect France’s dominance to continue, especially in front of a rocking home crowd.

BACK FRANCE (+140).

Over/Under (O/U)

BET ALTERNATE UNDER 1.5 (+192).

France has gone Under 1.5 in 2 of its last 4 Olympic matches. We’ve already discussed the host nation’s 4 shutout victories, while it allowed just 1 goal through its 5 matches.

Spain’s defense hasn’t been as formidable, allowing a goal in 4 of its 5 Olympic matches, but it has allowed just 1 or fewer goals in 4 of 5.

Both sides have technical expertise which should lead to longer possessions. Given the strength and pace of the French defense and its style of play, BET UNDER 1.5 (+192).

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.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

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

More USA TODAY Summer Olympics coverage:
News | Medal count | Meet Team USA

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=42461]

Summer Olympics: France vs. Brazil women’s soccer odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s France vs. Brazil odds and lines, with expert Olympics women’s soccer picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

France battles Brazil Saturday in an Olympics women’s soccer quarterfinal at La Beaujoire-Louis-Fonteneau in Nantes. Kickoff is set for 3 p.m. ET (Telemundo / Peacock). Below, we preview FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines around the France vs. Brazil odds, and make our expert Summer Olympic picks and predictions.

Host nation France beat Columbia 3-2 to kick off its group stage play. It then lost 2-1 to Canada before beating New Zealand 2-1. France has taken down Brazil in the last 4 battles between the 2 nations, one of which was in the 2023 Women’s World Cup. In its most competitive match, against a top-10 nation in Canada, France ended with the same amount of shots and shots on frame.

Brazil had a difficult group, one that featured top-ranked Spain and No. 7 Japan. Brazil had just 1 win, but it advanced on goal differential (-2). It beat Nigeria 1-0, lost to Japan 2-1 and lost to Spain 2-0. In the latter match, the 38-year-old Brazil legend Marta received a first-half red card, and Spain scored twice in the second half. Marta will miss this match.

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

France vs. Brazil odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 5:03 a.m. ET.

Moneyline: France -145 (bet -145 to win $100) | Brazil -360 (bet $100 to win $360) | Draw +290
Over/Under: 2.5 (O: -136 | U: +101)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

France vs. Brazil picks and predictions

Prediction

France 2, Brazil 1

Moneyline (ML)

TAKE FRANCE (-145).

France has looked like the sharper side, and Brazil will be without its leader in Marta. Despite a loss to Canada, France has looked like a solid side, ending with 6 goals through the 3 matches. France is No. 2 in the Women’s World Rankings.

Meanwhile, Brazil lost to Japan 2-1 and had 8 fewer shots in that match. It didn’t look good against top-10 sides and will be taking on a powerhouse in France. With 4 players that have over 100 caps on the roster, France has the experience as well.

FRANCE (-145) is the way to go.

Over/Under (O/U)

BET OVER 2.5 (-136).

Simply put, both teams have allowed numerous goals throughout the tournament. France has netted 6 goals and allowed 5 while Brazil has scored 2 goals and allowed 4. France has gone Over in each match, scoring at least 2 in all 3. Brazil is 1-2 O/U this total.

Given the caliber of the French attack with F Kadidiatou Diani helping lead the charge, it should be able to get on the board early and often. Also, the last 3 games between these 2 have ended in a 2-1 French win and the last 4 have gone Over this total.

Because of the value here, TAKE OVER 2.5 (-136).

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.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

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

More USA TODAY Summer Olympics coverage:
News | Medal count | Meet Team USA

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=42461]

Summer Olympics: France vs. Argentina odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s France vs. Argentina odds and lines, with expert Olympics men’s soccer picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

The France battles Argentina Friday at Matmut Atlantique in Bordeaux, France. Kickoff is set for 3 p.m. ET (Peacock). Below, we preview FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines around the France vs. Argentina odds, and make our expert Summer Olympic picks and predictions.

France, which came in 2nd in the World Cup at the international level in 2022, dominated the U23 group stage. As the hosts, France has won 2 of its 3 games by at least 3 goals. It kicked off Olympic play with a 3-0 win over the USMNT, which also cracked the knockout stage. France then beat Guinea 1-0 and New Zealand 3-0.

Neither France nor Argentina made the knockout stage in the 2020 Summer Olympics, an event won by Brazil.

Argentina, unlike France, had a rough start. Despite many of these players not being on the roster, Argentina-France is a repeat of the 2022 World Cup final, which Argentina won. In the Olympics, Argentina lost to Morocco 2-1 in the 1st match then took down Iraq 3-1 and Ukraine 2-0.

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

France vs. Argentina odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at Thursday, 7:12 p.m. ET.

Moneyline: France +110 (bet $100 to win $110) | Argentina +250 (bet $100 to win $250) | Draw +240
Over/Under: 2.5 (O: +109 | U: -145)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

France vs. Argentina picks and predictions

Prediction

Argentina 1, France 0

Moneyline (ML)

TAKE ARGENTINA (+250).

There’s something to be said about having experienced players that have been in top knockout stage games before. F Julian Alvarez and D Nicolas Otamendi are the players over 23 year that are with Argentina, and the former was a key part in Argentina winning Copa America just a few weeks ago.

Argentina has a loss on its resume, but it had 7 more shots than Morocco. It then had back-to-back 2 goal wins. On the other hand, France beat up on the USMNT and then had a few dominant yet unimpressive victories.

France’s defense has struggled and has allowed 30 shots through its 3 matches. Expect a talented Argentina attack to break through a relatively untested French defense.

ARGENTINA (+250) is the way to go as the best value play here.

Over/Under (O/U)

BET UNDER 2.5 (-145).

The Under, despite the expensive price, still has good value here. The defenses have been too good to assume the offenses will be able to consistently break through. Argentina has allowed 3 goals, 1 of which was a penalty kick, and it has allowed just 1 in its last 2 games. France has allowed 0 goals.

While both teams have scored with ease, this will be the most competitive game each has been a part of. In the 2020 Summer Olympics, 4 of the 6 games between the quarterfinals and semifinals went Under this total.

With both defenses having performed so far and the high intensity this game should have, take UNDER 2.5 (-145).

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.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

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

More USA TODAY Summer Olympics coverage:
News | Medal count | Meet Team USA

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=42461]

2024 Summer Olympics: France vs. USA men’s soccer odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s France vs. United States odds and lines, with Olympics men’s soccer expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

In 2024 Summer Olympics men’s soccer action, host nation France and the United States meet Wednesday at 3 p.m. ET (USA Network / Peacock / Telemundo). Kickoff is at Orange Velodrome in Marseille, France. Let’s analyze FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines for the France vs. United States, and make our expert Summer Olympic picks and predictions.

France and United States meet in their opening match of Group A play. The group also includes Guinea and New Zealand, which face off earlier in the day.

French manager Thierry Henry has an inexperienced, but talented U23 group. France (+210) is the gold medal favorite, slightly ahead of Argentina (+240) and Spain (+280) before the odds get much longer for the other competing nations.

France is led by Alexandre Lacazette, who plays for Lyon in France’s top tier Ligue 1. The talented striker played for Arsenal in the English Premier League for 5 seasons (2017-2022).

While there are 3 overage spots available to include players older than 23 years of age, France will not have star and usual team captain F Kylian Mbappe. His new employer Real Madrid was against the idea of its big investment competing in the Olympic format.

Meanwhile, Team USA won’t have F Christian Pulisic. The Americans qualified for the Olympic tournament for the first time since the 2008 games in Beijing. Despite no Pulisic, manager Marko Mitrovic has a talented U23 squad. GK Gaga Slonina is top-notch, and the team features F’s Paxten Aaronson and Taylor Booth, as well as MF Gianluca Busio to provide the scoring.

Men’s soccer: Gold medals picks and predictions

France vs. United States odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 3:23 a.m. ET.

3-way moneyline (ML): France -240 (bet $240 to win $100) | United States +600 (bet $100 to win $600) | Draw +360
2-way spread: France -1.5 (+130) | United States +1.5 (-160)
Over/Under (O/U): 2.5 (O: -145 | U: +109)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

France vs. United States picks and predictions

Prediction

France 1, United States 0

Moneyline

Look for the host nation France (-240) to get off to a quick start. However, risking nearly 2½ times your potential return is quite a bit, and there is just not enough reward.

Instead, it’s a good idea to play HALF-TIME RESULT DRAW (+135). This match kicks off prior to the opening ceremonies. Expect the energy to be a bit low, and the play uneven as these 2 young sides get started. It will take a while to feel each other out and gain any offensive momentum.

2-way Line/Against the spread

UNITED STATES +1.5 (-160) is worth look as this team definitely isn’t devoid of talent. The USMNT should at least be able to hang around and keep it within a goal … even in facing the host nation.

It’s likely a good thing that this young USA squad is facing the hosts earlier rather than later as France should gain steam and confidence as the tournament goes on.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Over/Under

UNDER 2.5 (+109) at plus-money might be the best play on the board.

Yes, we have some young players on both sides, and they’ll be excited to try and make a name for themselves. But, again, this is before the Olympics really kick into gear with opening ceremonies taking place Friday.

There won’t be a ton of attention on Wednesday’s match, which should get off to a very, very slow start before the offense takes root and starts developing a little chemistry and consistency.

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.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

More USA TODAY Summer Olympics coverage:
News | Medal count | Meet Team USA

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=42461]

2024 Summer Olympics: Men’s soccer gold medal picks and predictions

Analyzing the 2024 Summer Olympics men’s soccer odds and lines, and tabbing the 3 best gold medal bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

The 2024 Summer Olympics, officially the Games of the XXXIII Olympiad, run from July 26 through Aug. 11 in Paris, France. Let’s analyze FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines for the best men’s soccer gold medal Futures, and make our expert Summer Olympic picks and predictions.

We have 8 matches set for Wednesday, July 24, officially ahead of the Opening Ceremonies, including Argentina, as all 16 Olympics squads are in action for the 1st time.

La Albiceleste, fresh off a Copa America championship victory against Colombia in Miami, gets underway in Group B play against Morocco at 9 a.m. ET.

Spain, which just won Euro 2024, also begins play at 9 a.m. against Uzbekistan in Group C play. Meanwhile, France and the United States meet at 3 p.m. in a Group A battle.

In the 2020 Summer games in Japan — which due to COVID were actually held in 2021 — Brazil won the men’s soccer gold medal, Spain took home silver and Mexico picked up bronze. On the women’s side, Canada won gold, Sweden claimed silver and the USWNT secured bronze.

In the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, host nation Brazil secured the gold medal in men’s soccer, with Germany ending up with the silver and Nigeria coming up with a bronze.

In 2012, it was Mexico topping Brazil in London, with South Korea winning the bronze. In 2008, the medal winners on the men’s side in Beijing were Argentina (gold), Nigeria (silver) and Brazil (bronze).

Going back to 2004, the medal winners on the men’s side in Athens were Argentina (gold), Paraguay (silver) and Italy (bronze). In 2000 in Australia, Cameroon (gold), Spain (silver) and Chile (bronze) were your medal winners on the men’s side.

And, if you remember the 1996 Atlanta games, our medal winners on the men’s side were Nigeria (gold), Argentina (silver) and Brazil (bronze), while in 1992, Spain (gold), Poland (silver) and Ghana (bronze) claimed medals.

2024 Olympics men’s soccer gold medal odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Tuesday, July 23, at 7:34 a.m. ET.

France: +210 (bet $100 to win $210)
Argentina: +240 (bet $100 to win $240)
Spain: +280 (bet $100 to win $280)
Morocco: +1400 (bet $100 to win $1,400)
Paraguay: +2100 (bet $100 to win $2,100)
USA: +2400 (bet $100 to win $2,400)
Egypt: +3000 (bet $100 to win $3,000)
Japan: +3000 (bet $100 to win $3,000)
Ukraine: +3000 (bet $100 to win $3,000)
Mali: +3900 (bet $100 to win $3,900)
Israel: +6000 (bet $100 to win $5,000)
Uzbekistan: +6500 (bet $100 to win $6,500)
Guinea: +7500 (bet $100 to win $7,500)
Iraq: +10000 (bet $100 to win $10,000)
Dominican Republic: +50000 (bet $100 to win $50,000)
New Zealand: +50000 (bet $100 to win $50,000)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

2024 Olympics men’s soccer — expert pick

FRANCE (+210)

The men’s soccer tournament was last won by a host nation at Rio 2016 when Brazil claimed the gold medal. Les Bleus look to delight the home fans this summer, and France enters as the chalk to do just that.

As mentioned, a European nation hasn’t won the gold medal in the men’s soccer tournament since the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona.

France is in Group A with United States, Guinea and New Zealand. However, if you’re looking for F Kylian Mbappe on manager Thierry Henry’s roster, you’ll be sorely disappointed. His new club Real Madrid was against the idea of their big investment competing in the Olympic format.

F Alexandre Lacazette, who plays for Lyon in French Ligue 1, is the captain in Mbappe’s place. Another star France will look to is teen phenom F Desire Doue, who plays for Stade Rennais in Ligue 1.

Being the host nation, while having several strong club players, gives France the upper hand — or leg — in the men’s tournament.

2024 Olympics men’s soccer — contender

MOROCCO (+1400)

Morocco has never won an Olympic medal in men’s soccer, but Atlas Lions have a very good chance of not only getting on the podium, but winning the whole thing.

We saw the quality of Moroccan football at the World Cup in Qatar in 2022, as they captured the imagination of fans everywhere, upsetting Spain in the Round of 16 and taking down Portugal 1-0 in the quarterfinals before eventually bowing out against France in the semis. It also lost the 3rd-place match to Croatia, but still made its presence as a world power known.

Manager Tarik Sektioui has plenty of star power on his squad, and a lot of the players are known to French fans, playing club soccer all around the country. In fact, MFs Amir Richardson (Stade de Reims), Yassine Kechta and Oussama Targhalline (Le Havre AC), F Eliesse Ben Seghir (AS Monaco), MF Benjamin Bouchouari (Saint-Etienne) and D Achraf Hakimi (Paris-St. Germain) all play in France for a paycheck.

It gets real in a hurry for Morocco as it opens against Argentina. But, it’s a watered-down Argentina as most of its major stars — who won the past 2 Copa Americas and the World Cup — are sitting out this tourney.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

2024 Olympics men’s soccer — long shot

UKRAINE (+3000)

This isn’t some kind of conspiracy theory, but how much of a feel-good story would it be if The Blue and Yellow were able to make a run in the Paris games, taking their fellow countrymen’s minds off of the terrible war against Russia, at least for a little while?

Don’t write it off as far-fetched. The national team has been playing home matches in Lodz, Poland, and it collected 4 points in the UEFA Euro 2024, losing 3-0 to Romania, topping Slovakia 2-1 and playing to a scoreless draw against Belgium to just miss a trip out of the knockout stages.

Manager Ruslan Rotan has a squad full of mostly players from club teams in Ukraine, obviously relocated due to the war. That includes MFs Dmytro Kryskiv and Kyrylo Siheiev, who play for FC Shakhtar Donetsk. F Danylo Sikan and GK Kiril Fesiun also play for Donetsk, and MF Maksym Braharu plays for FC Dynamo Kyiv.

Don’t overlook Ukraine as this team might play with more heart than any of the other squads in the Olympics combined.

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.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

More USA TODAY Summer Olympics coverage:
News | Medal count | Meet Team USA

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=42461]

Euro 2024: Spain vs. France odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Spain vs. France odds and lines, with Euro 2024 expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

Spain battles France in a semifinal of Euro 2024 from Allianz Arena in Munich Friday. Kickoff is set for 3 p.m. ET (FOX). Below, we analyze FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines around the Spain vs. France odds, and make our best Euro 2024 bets, picks and predictions.

Spain sits at No. 8 in the FIFA World Rankings and has the best odds of the 4 remaining nations to win the tournament at +180. Spain dominated the group stage with a 3-0 win over Croatia and a pair of 1-0 victories over Italy and Albania. In the Round of 16, Spain defeated Georgia 4-1 and went on to beat host Germany in extra time 2-1 via a 119th-minute goal from M Mikel Merino in a quarterfinal. Spain has allowed just 2 goals through its 5 Euro matches.

France, ranked No. 2 in the world, has consistently won but hasn’t looked as competent. France has the 3rd-best odds to win the tournament at +270 — England is +260; Netherlands is +500.

France beat Austria 1-0 and drew Netherlands 0-0 and Poland 1-1 in group stage play. It took down Belgium 1-0 in the Round of 16 and beat Portugal 0-0 (5-3 in penalty kicks) in a quarterfinal. France is led by Real Madrid star F Kylian Mbappe.

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

Spain vs. France odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Monday at 3:49 p.m. ET.

Moneyline: Spain +175 (bet $100 to win $170) | France +200 (bet $100 to win $200) | Draw +180 (bet $100 to win $180)
Over/Under: 2.5 (O: +160 | U: -198)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Spain vs. France picks and predictions

Prediction

Spain 1, France 0

Moneyline (ML)

BET SPAIN (+175).

France and Spain have a substantial history. Spain has won 5 of the last 8 matches in head-to-head matches with France winning 2 and 1 draw. Recent history points to Spain, which has looked far better this tournament.

France struggled through the group stage, either winning by 1 or drawing its competition. It then had as many shots on frame as Belgium and only 1 more than Portugal, and it should’ve lost had it not been for a clear miss in extra time from Portugal.

Spain has been more consistent, having won 4 of its 5 matches in full time and taking down Germany before penalty kicks were forced. Considering Germany was the home side, that victory was even more impressive.

Considering its recent success against France and in the Euro tournament, BACK SPAIN (+175).

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.

Over/Under (O/U)

BET ALTERNATE UNDER 1.5 (+160).

Over the last 4 head-to-head matches, two were 1-0 finals. On top of that, both teams have had defensive-minded games often in the tournament. Spain has gone Under this total in 2 of its last 4 games with two ending 1-0.

Both nations have allowed just 2 goals in the tournament. France has gone Under this total in 4 of 5 games in Euro. It has had the game end 0-0 twice and 1-0 twice as well.

Considering both teams’ strength defensively and the value here, UNDER 1.5 (+160) is the way to go.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

Want to cash in on bonus bets and other welcome offers before placing that wager? Check out the latest sportsbook promos and sign up for minutes for exclusive offers.

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

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

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=53935]

Euro 2024: Portugal vs. France odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s Portugal vs. France odds and lines, with Euro 2024 expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

France battles Portugal in a quarterfinal match of Euro 2024 from Volksparkstadion Friday. Kickoff is set for 3 p.m. ET (FOX). Below, we analyze FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines around the Portugal vs. France odds, and make our best Euro 2024 bets, picks and predictions.

For a team of its caliber attack, France certainly had an underwhelming group stage. France finished 2nd its 1st 3 Group D games, winning 1 match and drawing the other 2 while ending with just 2 goals for and 1 against. However it still advanced and beat Belgium 1-0 Monday, a match in which the lone score was an own goal by Belgian D Jan Vertonghen. France did end with 14 more shots and 55.1% of the possession.

Portugal advanced from the Round of 16 by winning on penalty kicks, 3-0 over Slovenia. It ended the 120 minutes with 10 more shots, 4 more shots on frame and 73% possession. The most concerning part of Portugak’s recent performances has been its attack as it has been held scoreless in 2 straight games. It went 2-0-1 (1 loss) in the group stage, beating Turkey 3-0 and Czechia 2-1 before losing 2-0 to Georgia.

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

Portugal vs. France odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Thursday at 6:46 p.m. ET.

Moneyline: Portugal +230 (bet $100 to win $230) | France +145 (bet $100 to win $145) | Draw +190 (bet $100 to win $190)
Over/Under: 2.5 (O: +140 | U: -170)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Portugal vs. France picks and predictions

Prediction

France 2, Portugal 1

Moneyline (ML)

BET FRANCE (+145).

France sits 2nd in the FIFA World Rankings because of its firepower both up front and on the backline. It hasn’t performed overly convincingly through its 1st 4 games, but it has got the job done, beating Belgium in its first knockout stage round. It was able to get to the World Cup final in 2022 with a similar roster and should have the experience and talent to beat an aging Portuguese side.

For Portugal, despite having already advanced, a 2-0 loss to Georgia and then a full-time draw with Slovenia is concerning. Expect France to shine when the lights are the brightest. BET FRANCE (+145).

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.

Over/Under (O/U)

BET OVER 2.5 (+140).

Portugal created the chances against Slovenia yet didn’t convert. It has a plethora of talented creators like F Cristiano Ronaldo, F Bernardo Silva and F Bruno Fernandes. The French front line with F Kylian Mbappe is also among the most talented groups in the world. Portugal has gone Over this total in 2 of its 4 Euro games and in 5 of its last 7 matches.

France has gone Under in all 4 Euro matches but has gone Over in 7 of its last 13 matches. Both teams have the firepower to put shots on frame and create opportunities. Expect the offensive talent to finally come out, and at this value, BACK OVER 2.5 (+140).

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

Want to try out some online casino games for free? Check out the McLuck promo code offer, collect free gold coins and sweepstakes coins, and check out slots and more.

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

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

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=53935]

Euro 2024: France vs. Belgium odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Monday’s France vs. Belgium odds and lines, with Euro 2024 expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

France battles Belgium in the Round of 16 of Euro 2024 from Dusseldorf Arena Monday. Kickoff is set for noon ET (FOX). Below, we analyze FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines around the France vs. Belgium odds, and make our best Euro 2024 bets, picks and predictions.

France came in second in Group D, winning 1 match and drawing its other 2. It ended with just 2 goals for and 1 against. For a team of its caliber attack, France certainly had an underwhelming group stage. France beat Austria, the group winner, 1-0 in its opener, drew Netherlands 0-0 and drew Poland 1-1. Having lost to Argentina in the World Cup final in 2022, France is among the powerhouses in European football. It was 2-1-1 in its four 2024 friendlies.

Belgium, which is led by Man City star M Kevin De Bruyne, lost to Slovakia 1-0, beat Romania 2-0 and drew Ukraine 0-0. For a team that sits 3rd in the world per the FIFA World Rankings, it was also a discouraging group stage. It did end each match with 55% or greater possession. Belgium was 2-2-0 (2 draws) in its 4 friendlies prior to the tournament.

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

France vs. Belgium odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:30 a.m. ET.

Moneyline: France -110 (bet $110 to win $100) | Belgium +360 (bet $100 to win $360) | Draw +220 (bet $100 to win $220)
Over/Under: 2.5 (O: +116 | U: -142)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

France vs. Belgium picks and predictions

Prediction

France 2, Belgium 1

Moneyline (ML)

BET FRANCE (-110).

France has arguably the most talented side in the world behind a trio of skilled forwards led by F Kylian Mbappe. It plays its best against top competition, having taken down England in the World Cup quarterfinals 2-1 and then Morocco in the semifinals 2-0. It didn’t have a great group stage here, but it wasn’t truly tested often.

Unfortunately, the same can’t be said of Belgium. It struggled mightily against both Ukraine and Slovakia and arguably was outplayed against the former, ending with 1 shot fewer. The middle of the field outside of De Bruyne isn’t quite as strong and keeping pace with a high-octane French side will be easier said than done.

Expect France to shine when the lights are the brightest. BET FRANCE (-110).

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.

Over/Under (O/U)

BET OVER 2.5 (+116).

For both sides, the talent to put the ball in the back of the net is there. While France scored just 2 goals through the group stage, it was getting the opportunities and had double-digit shots in each match. France had gone Over this total in 3 of its last 7 games.

Despite France’s defensive success, Poland, Austria, and Netherlands don’t have the firepower or pace of De Bruyne, F Jérémy Doku and Co.

Belgium has gone Over in 2 of its last 6 matches but also has played teams with a fraction of the attacking talent of France.

Expect the offensive talent to finally come out, and at this value, BACK OVER 2.5 (+116).

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

Want to play some games of your own? Then check out the best real-money online casinos and play some slots, blackjack, video poker, roulette and more.

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

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

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=53935]