Champions League

2010 has nearly finished and I hope it’s been a great punting year for everyone. It’s now time to start looking ahead to 2011 and seeing where we can make some money, especially on some of the antepost markets where some value prices are available.

1)    Barcelona to win the Champions League

Many people don’t like to back favourites on antepost markets. If you’re going to lay out a decent amount of money for several months, people argue that they should at least have a big potential return if their selection wins.

Nevertheless, it is hard to ignore the 5/2 with Stan James that Barcelona win the Champions League this season. They recently proved to be head and shoulders above arch-rivals Real Madrid and the Spanish champions were recently described by Arsene Wenger as ‘super favourites’ to win the tournament.

The addition of David Villa to the squad makes them outstanding in attack, with Javier Mascherano also being added to provide cover if Sergio Busquets or Xavi get injured. With so many talented youngsters coming through and Lionel Messi the best player in the world, it looks like a great way of more than doubling your money.

Real Madrid are next in the betting at 4/1 (Boylesports), with Chelsea out to 5/1 (bet365) and Manchester United at 8/1 (bet365). However, it must be said that the English teams all have major faults this season.

2)    Back Lee Westwood to win every major tournament

Lee Westwood has never won a golfing major, although this is set to change in 2011. The player recently became the world number one and that is because he’s quite simply the most talented golfer on the planet right now.

The Englishman has been knocking on the door to win a major tournament for the past couple of seasons and is currently on offer at 14/1 (Paddy Power) to win the 2011 Open, 14/1 (bet365) to win the US Masters and 16/1 (Betfred) to win the US Open.

Colin Montgomerie recently commented that it was likely that Westwood would lift at least one major next year and it’s amazing to see him available at such a bigger price than Tiger Woods.

3)    Arsenal to win the Premier League

This is being written ahead of Arsenal’s trip to Old Trafford, although I am pretty confident that the Gunners have what it takes to beat Chelsea and Manchester United to the title. Arsene Wenger’s team are currently available at 4/1 (Ladbrokes) and this is surely an each-way bet to nothing considering that the north London side have so many form players at the moment.

Their lofty position at the top of the Premier League has been achieved despite injuries to Robin van Persie, Cesc Fabregas and Theo Walcott, not to mention defensive problems considering that Thomas Vermaelen is injured.

Olympic Marseille v Manchester United Betting Tip & Odds: While United will be favourite to progress through to the quarter finals, this is a tough away night for them. United have a great away record in the Champions League, but Marseille have a great home record at the moment, and are in great form. United haven’t offered a great deal in the Champions League so far this season, scoring few and conceding just one, whilst Marseille look to be growing in momentum including a victory over Chelsea in the group stage. Marseille are a hard working team, and like United, don’t have a great edge of flair, so this could almost turn out to be a scrappy Premier League-esque draw (this is reflected in United’s outright winner odds). Best tip based on these prices is just plump for one of the outright odds because they are such good value. Both Teams to Score No for 4/5 at Victor Chandler looks a decent bet for a top up.

Olympic Marseille to win: 13/5 at SkyBet
Draw: 23/10 at Boylesports
Manchester United to win: 6/5 at Bet365

Champions League Match Preview: This is a very interesting Champions League match up. Marseille got themselves off to a slow start in this year’s competition, and looked at one stage as if they may even miss out on qualification to the knockout stages. However, they turned in a good last four matches, including a home victory over Chelsea on Match Day Six to ensure their progress. Now they have the chance to bring down another English club, as they welcome Barclays Premier League leaders Manchester United. The biggest problem facing Didier Deschamps is trying to find a way through the mean Manchester United defence. Marseille haven’t managed to earn themselves much success in reaching the quarter final stage since their Champions League triumph back in the 1999/2000 season when they lifted the trophy. Marseille are now charged with the task of trying to crack a tough United defence who has conceded just one goal in the competition so far this season. This is the Olympic Marseille side which won the double in France last season, so they are not going to be a pushover. Didier Deschamps has a great deal of influence, and is highly respected for his short managerial career, and his current side is a hard working one, perhaps lacking a bit of creative flair to be honest, but one, nonetheless, who should be able to keep things tight and give Manchester United a run for their money. What Marseille will be able to bring to the table, as well as a very intimidating atmosphere, is very English like qualities, which could draw United into a very tough battle.

Marseille are very tough tacklers, and they have one of the best and most powerful defensive units which you could look for, including Gabriel Heinze, the former United full back. Marseille, as shown in their victory over Chelsea, are competitive, a trait passed down by Deschamps himself. However, with the bruising centre forwards of Brandao and Andre Pierre Gignac, Marseille have been dealt a bit of blow, with the latter likely to miss the big match. The young striker was carried from the pitch with a serious groin injury in Marseille’s league victory on the weekend, will now miss United’s visit to the Stade Velodrome on Wednesday night. That is a bitter blow for Marseille, as the French International would have carried the biggest threat, and was in sparkling form with five goals in his last five matches. Marseille could be even lighter up front because there are minor injury concerns to fellow forwards Brandao and Remy, both of which picked up sprained ankles on the weekend. There is optimism that both will be able to turn out though. Marseille are on a good run of form, winning five of their last six matches, with the other one ending in a draw. At the Stade Velodrome, Marseille have a formidable record, going 12 games unbeaten at home, and winning nine of those game. Their last defeat there was against Spartak Moscow in the Champions League back in mid September. One very interesting stat surrounding Olympic Marseille, and one which you may want to take note of for your football betting, is that Marseille have not lost a match at all this season after opening the season.

Manchester United will start as favourites in this fixture, and will be expected to progress through over the two legs. This is arguably the trickiest match of the two, and they will know that Marseille will want to be taking something positive away from this first leg encounter to give themselves a chance back at Old Trafford. What keeps Manchester United going so strongly season after season in the Champions League, is their great away record, which is pretty enviable. They have won nine out of their last ten away matches in the tournament, including all three against this year in the group stage. They have looked a bit sub par this season to be honest, really struggling for goals and looking a bit disinterested in the Group Stage. No doubts, they will raise their game as for one of the competition’s best performers, their Champions League season really starts now. United have tasted success against Marseille before, after they were drawn together in the 1999/2000 group stage. United lost on their visit to Marseille, with William Gallas scoring the only goal of that match, but did win the match at Old Trafford. As for playing on French soil, well United haven’t got a prolific winning record there, and why your betting may be well served leaning towards a draw. United have W3 D6 L2 when they have played in France in European competition. Marseille on the other hand have a very strong record when entertaining English clubs, as they have an excellent W7 D0 L2 record against teams from across the channel.

United haven’t fared great on their travels this season in the Premier League, and have really been pushed to the wire several times. However, they have always managed to salvage something out of their matches, even when their backs have been against the wall, and that is the resiliency which against should ensure that they come through this match without too many major scares. United are more of a scrappy team than the European attacking flair side which they have been able to put out in the past. They qualified with the lowest amount of goals (seven) of all teams reaching the last sixteen this year. Without Nani there is little creativity coming from the middle of the park, but while there is Rooney and in particular Dimitar Berbatov roaming around up front, they don’t need many chances to finish off games. One worrying factor for United, is that they really have been outworked at times in the tournament this year. Rangers really outplayed United at Old Trafford in their 0-0 draw in the group stage, simply because they were able to get a strong foothold in the middle of the park, tackled hard and closed out space. This is what Marseille should be able to do as well, but you get the feeling that United would be happy with a draw, simply because they would be expected to cruise through the second leg back at Old Trafford. Marseille just may be a little light up front against a stiff United defence to take the victory, and United may fall into their lazy uninterested European mode which means that a draw looks very likely here. Two hard working teams, and perhaps not enough flair from either side to really make a difference.

Online Bookmaker Promotion: May be worth looking at 0-0 money back special for this one, and that means heading off to Stan James. The popular online bookmaker continuously roll out some of the most competitive prices, and their money back special on 0-0 draws is one of the best available. When you back a player in ANY goalscorer market at Stan James, and the match ends in a 0-0 draw, then you will get your lost stake refunded as a free bet. This is decent coverage, and on a tricky away night for United, it has a fair chance of happening. Stan James offer a free £25 bet for punters who open a new account with them.

Lyon v Real Madrid is yet another revenge match on the cards following last season’s Champions League. French side Lyon, who have a great record against the mighty Spaniards in the competition, again threw a spanner in the works of the Galacticos, as they knocked Madrid out of the last sixteen. Now fate has brought the two sides back together again, and Lyon will be looking for a repeat of the 1-0 home success which they gained over Madrid at this stage last season at the Stade de Gerland. It was a firecracker of a goal from Jean Makoun, which gave Lyon the upper hand then, and with the French side earning a draw back in Spain, Madrid once more faltered. Lyon have a great pedigree in the Champions League, and they always prove to be a difficult side to play against. What they do so very well is play efficient and economical football, built around a very tight formation in which defensive duties are rarely overlooked. Now Lyon have the tough task of knockout out Real Madrid again, and they know the Spaniards will be coming at them with a bit of revenge in mind. Lyon went to the semi finals last year, and they will look to their great home record against Madrid, having won all three matches against the Spaniards at home in France, to get a head start again. Lyon are on a great run of form at home in the Champions League, with seven wins and just one defeat in eleven matches there (the loss coming against Bayern in last year’s semi final). Lyon’s home record is W4 D2 L2 when facing Spanish opposition in European competition. Lyon will go without striker Lisandro, as last year’s Player of the Year in Ligue 1 misses out through injury.

Real Madrid are a bit of a different prospect this time around though, simply because they have Jose Mourinho at the helm. Mourinho led Inter to Champions League success last year, and immediately Madrid were installed as one of the favourites with the online bookmakers, to go all the way and lift the trophy. They looked more than comfortable in their group stage, winning five out of six matches, and picking up a draw in the other match. What was impressive through, was their goal scoring form, hitting fifteen goals in their six matches and conceding just two. This is what Jose Mourinho brings to the table, defence. It was what Inter’s success was built on last year, as the Mourinho way has always been about keeping things tight, even if it as the expense of pretty football. However, at Madrid, he sort of has the best of both worlds, with the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo gunning for him. Madrid have more of a solid defensive output about them now, but they have the genuine world class match winners to go on and make the most of the hard work being done at the back and in the midfield. Madrid saw off Ajax and AC Milan in the group stage, not easy tasks, and they look to be full of momentum, even if they have slipped backwards in the race for the Spanish league title behind Barcelona. There is no doubt that Real Madrid are a much stronger side than they were last year, and that is all down to the Special One. He really does make such a huge difference to sides, and you wouldn’t back against them getting through to the quarter finals.

They will be happy enough to not lost away at Lyon again, and they will be better suited for a tight battle under Mourinho. A draw would probably suit them fine, but there is a sharper edge about them this year. Last year under Pellegrino, you felt that they were always trying to live up to their reputation, but now other teams are once again understanding that yawning level of respect which Madrid commands under Mourinho. Can Madrid pull out a win in Lyon? Yes, they are better and stronger and should be able to nick a win. They’ll have to work hard for it though, and overcome some history. The last four occasions in which Madrid have been pitted against French sides in two-legged ties in Europe, they have failed to qualify on all four occasion. However, they did pick up a home and away win against Auxerre in the group stage this season, and Madrid’s match record in France is W4 D1 L6. There is of course history between these two sides, and is always worth looking at for your Champions League football betting. The ties have all followed the same pattern. Lyon have won all the home matches, and then held on for a draw back at the Bernabeau. It will be a second return to former club for Madrid striker Karim Benzema, who moved from Lyon back in 2009.

Madrid are strong favourites to pick up an away win, with a best price of 17/10 at Blue Square representing some decent value on Jose Mourinho’s men. The Draw is backed at 5/2 with Bet365, and the bookies aren’t expecting a repeat of Lyon’s heroics from last season, as they are fairly long at 7/2 with Bet365. Bet365 offer some coverage on your football betting, because they will refund any lost stakes placed pre match on Correct Score, Half Time/Full Time or Scorecast bets, if the match plays out to a 0-0 draw. Will the French hold their own again? There is a fantastic bonus waiting at Bet365 for new customers, who can get up to £100 in free bets when opening a new account with the highly recommended online bookmaker.

There is a repeat of last year’s Champions League final as Bayern Munich and Inter Milan go to head to head in the last sixteen of the Champions league. It is a rapid coming together from the two European giants as they look for progress through to the quarter finals. Inter Milan, coached by Jose Mourinho won out on that day, but since the Special One moved to Real Madrid, Inter Milan have struggled to pick up the pieces. He really was the extra element which gave Inter a winning mentality, and since Rafa Benitez came and went at the club, failing to make an impact, Brazilian Leonardo has started to get things back on track. However, Inter Milan are by no means as good as they were last season. Things haven’t gone too smoothly for Bayern Munich this season either, as they are unlikely to pick up another league title, but they are back to full strength with Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery in the thick of things, and that will make them a tough proposition. It is Ribery who could be the key factor in this match, as his trickery could unlock a static Inter Milan defence. We saw from Tottenham just what pace can do against an Italian side, and with the creativity and width that Bayern are able to put out, they should cause the Inter back line a lot of problems. Both Robben and Ribery have had a troubled seasons through injury, but now they are re-united in the side, just at the right time. Robben and Ribery are vital to Bayern’s success and with both in form at the moment, and both the extra injection of pace and quality that can unlock defences, Bayern could take a good advantage away from this first leg. There is a big threat up front to come from Bayern this time around, with Mario Gomez really leading the way. Because of injuries, Gomez has been called into the side this season, and has something of a phenomenal goal scoring record this year, hitting 26 goals in 30 matches for Bayern, including six in the Champions League. Throw Thomas Muller and Bastian Schweinsteiger into the mix, then you have a very strong looking Bayern.

Only Inter Milan’s Samuel Eto’o can boast a better goal scoring record than in the competition this year, and Inter will look to his experience to lead the line. A trip to the San Siro though is never easy, and the Italians are renowned  for their defensive football. Inter failed to win their group stage, losing out to Tottenham and that is why they play at home first. This is not an easy match for the defending Champions, who have already lost to German opposition this year. On their visit to Werder Bremen, Inter couldn’t cope with what was being thrown at them, and suffered a defeat which left them reeling in second place. The defence of Inter’s Champions League title is well and truly on the line here, and you have to look at both as see Bayern as slightly the stronger team this time around. They are getting back into full flight just at the right time, and with the second leg advantage at home, they will fancy their chances of getting a quick revenge against the Italians. The big question here is whether or not Inter will be able to keep a clean sheet against Bayern at the San Siro. If Bayern come away from this first leg with a goal to their name, then you would picture them being in a very strong position. Inter are still looking to pick up the pieces, and they are lacking that x-factor which Jose Mourinho gave them. This is Leonardo’s first European match in charge at Inter Milan, and it couldn’t come with much higher pressure. However, Inter do have a strong home record, with eight straight wins in in the Champions League. In terms of form, Bayern have won five of their last six matches. Aside from last year’s final, there is another little bit of history between the two sides, with Bayern producing an away victory in the 2006/07 group stage, and a draw back in Munich.

Inter start the match as favourites, simply because they have the home advantage here, but it is a slender advantage in the odds which they take into the game, which is a fair reflection of the standing of the two sides at the moment. There looks as if there is very good value in backing the away side here, which isn’t often said for an away side in the Champions League. Bayern however, are running good at the moment, and with best odds being offered on then at 28/11 at Unibet, then they are well worth a flutter here. A draw at the San Siro is being healthily priced at 12/5 with Bet365. Bayern have the strength and the power to come away with at least a draw in this one, and have great firepower to carry them through. The likely goalscorer for Inter will be Eto’o (13/8 at Boylesports), so take a look at him in the Anytime Goalscorer market, but Munich’s Gomez (9/4 at Stan James) is in stunning form right now as well.

In case this one takes an Italian-esque turn and plays out to a 0-0 draw, it’ll be worth getting your bets down at Stan James for your Goalscorer betting. The highly popular online bookmaker offer stake refunds on all losing Goalscorer bets placed pre-match, if the game peters out to a goalless bore draw. This is a great money back special from one of the most highly rated online bookmakers, and this offer extends to any football match which is posted on their sports book. There is also a £25 free bet to be taken when opening a new account with Stan James, giving you a great way to get your Champions League betting started.

With the Champions League resuming at the stage of the Last 16, highly recommended online bookmaker Unibet are offering a great football betting promotion for the matches. Unibet are continuing their offer of refunding all losing Correct Score, Halftime/Fulltime and First Goal scorer/Last Goal scorer bets placed on a Champions League match, if that game ends in a scoreless draw. This provides some great coverage for individual match betting on this year’s tournament, as the knockout stages can bring a lot of tight games, with teams not wanting to give anything away. So, with this Unibet offer, there is a chance to take a bit of insurance on some of the submarkets in your Champions League betting. Place a bet on any of the markets named above, and if the match happens to end in a tense 0-0 draw, then the online bookmaker will refund your lost stake as a free bet. This offer applies to all of the Champions League matches in the knockout stage, including the final itself at Wembley, London on May 28th. Unibet come highly recommended with some of the top prices available, standing up so well in odds comparison. They carry a lot of weight in the industry and when you take a look over their excellent website, it is easy to see why. The Unibet website really excels in delivering a complete service for all of your online betting needs. One of their stand out features is their live in play betting portal, which covers your football betting needs so well. A wealth of sports are covered from the extensive Unibet sports book in the Unibet live betting portal, so you are not going to be short of any options. Another top feature available on Unibet, is their live streaming service. From football, tennis, basketball and more, Unibet continuously provide live streaming throughout the year, bringing some of the top sporting action from around the world. It is just another top feature which really makes Unibet one of the stand out online bookmakers. For new customers, there is a no risk £20 bet to take advantage. So even if your first bet loses on a new Unibet account, you will get your stake back to try again.

More betting information:
Bet website
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The great thing about the Champions League, is that since its conception, you can look back at history and see old rivalries. These two have met before, back in the 2007/08 Champions League group stage, where there was a draw between the two sides at the Mestalla in Spain, before the reverse fixture in Germany produced an away win for Valencia. The two sides did have prior history before that, coming together in the UEFA Cup quarter final back in 1997/98, which Schalke won with a 2-0 home win, and a draw in Spain. So honours are just about even here, but Valencia are another one of those teams, who on paper, look as if they are capable of producing more than they have. The Spaniards were lumped in a group with Manchester United this season, and both of the times those two met, it ended in defeat for Valencia. However, the matches themselves told a different story, as Valencia had much the better of the game at the Mestalla, before United struck late. In the reverse fixture at Old Trafford, Valencia took the lead before being pegged back for a draw. They gave as good as they could, but they just lacked a bit more finishing power when it mattered the most. However, that having been said, Valencia were one of the top scoring sides in the group stage of the competition this year, hitting fifteen goals in their six matches. That is one more than Barcelona managed, eight more than Manchester United managed.

Valencia are a strong side. They are currently third in the Spanish domestic league, behind only Barcelona and Real Madrid, and they are in an impressive run of form. They actually have better form than Real Madrid at the moment, because in their last eight league matches, Valencia have won seven and drawn one. That is well worth taking note of here for your Champions League football betting, and combined with home advantage, it makes sense to back them. However, the last time that Valencia were in the knockout stage of the Champions League, they failed to win either of their two home matches, and they will want to correct that this time around, especially as their home form against German clubs isn’t spectacular. In their last six home matches in Europe against German opposition, Valencia have drawn five and lost one. Not brilliant, and in fact, Valencia have picked up just three home wins in ten matches total against German sides at the Mestalla. Overall head to head against German sides (home and away) reads as W4 D9 L8 for Valencia, so they haven’t been strong in this department. They need something a little more positive to get themselves started here and take an advantage with them for the tricky second leg out in Germany to come. Realistically, looking at form and strengths of the two sides, Valencia will be favourites to take an early advantage in this tie.

Schalke are making just their second Champions League knockout stage appearance, reaching this round in 2007/08. They actually won through past Porto on that occasion, before being beaten by Barcelona in the quarter finals. Schalke aren’t a particularly strong side, and had a torrid time at the start of their new domestic season, winning just once in ten matches. Their form has improved dramatically since then, picking up wins and hanging around mid table in the Bundesliga, nothing more. However, they did win their group against the odds really, as they were paired up with Lyon, who are seasoned experts in the Champions League. However, they managed to edge out the French side for top spot, and have lined themselves up with a fixture that they will be able to see clear possibilities of getting through. Schalke do have some decent quality up front, with Spanish legend Raul and Klaas Jan Huntelaar pairing up to combine very well for the bulk of their goal tally. One noticeable difference between the Schalke now and the one from the first half of the season, is that their defence has tightened up immensely. They are much better in that department, and in this first leg, you can expect them to get through a lot of work. The Spaniards will have the impetus and they will attack, probably with quite a bit of pace. The Germans will look to stand tall though, and try and grab that all important away goal. This should be a tight match in all respects, and it could come down to how long the German back line can stay intact. If they are breached early and have to open up, Valencia have that speed and conviction to pick them off.

Valencia to win: 3/4 at Paddy Power
Draw: 14/5 at Unibet
Schalke to win: 22/5 at BetFair

Valencia are 66/1 at Victor Chandler to win the Champions League
Schalke are 80/1 at BetFred to win the Champions League

1 ) 2010/11 Champions League

Chelsea to win – 5/1 at BetFred

Yes, Barcelona just have incredible power and are as near to a perfect team as you could want. Real Madrid, who are better than they have been for years, were crushed by Barca 5-0 in a recent El Clasico encounter in La Liga, and Madrid remain second faouvrites to win the Champions League. That is how good Barcelona are. The three times European Cup winners (the last time being in 2008-09) are favourites to go all of the way again, and who could argue against it? Lionel Messi, Andres Iniesta, David Villa, Gerard Pique, Carles Puyol and Xavi merely scratch the surface of a phenomenal side. However, Chelsea really do represent England’s best chance of being a Champions League winner for 2011. They are the team whose style are most suited to winning the tournament, and they have come so close but just haven’t been able to get their hands on it. What may work in their favour, is their poor domestic form. Yes, that may sound weird, but last year, when they crashed out from the Champions League early to Inter Milan, their league form picked up. If they are falling behind in the Premier League race this year, perhaps it will spur them on to something bigger in the Champions League. They have the quality and technical ability up front to win it, as they are a great European side, patient and looking for just that one opportunity. No, they are not in great form at the moment, but that is what makes them such an interesting proposition and good value at the moment. Who knows what the draw is going to throw up in the future. Perhaps they can avoid one of the strong Spaniards until the final, and with the final at Wembley, it seems fitting that it could Chelsea’s time finally.

2 ) 2010/11 Premier League Title

Manchester United to win – 6/4 at SkyBet

Sir Alex Ferguson, who will be United’s longest serving manager by the time this season has been done and dusted, will probably be rewarding himself with the Premier League title. It is December and no-one has beaten the Red Devils yet this season. The worrying thing for the other challengers for the title, including defending Champions Chelsea, is that United have not even been in great form. Wayne Rooney has been absent for a chunk of the season, and they haven’t had his goals to count on. Dimitar Berbatov has blown very hot and cold, and the squad looks decidedly average to what it has done in the past. However, Ferguson knows how to get the best out of people, and make them into a team which is just incredibly hard to beat. The old flair and power play of wave after wave of attack isn’t there at the moment, but they are solid enough at the back not to suffer too many hiccups on the road this year. United were tipped here at the start of the season, and are looking a good bet now at the price above. The only tweaking that they need to do, is to find a bit more of a cutting edge away from home, just to accent their great home form. It’s not been a great season in terms of out and out quality from any of the main challengers this year, and if someone is going to rise above and go all of the way, then it will be Manchester United.

3 ) 2011 Cricket World Cup

England to win – 6/1 at SportingBet

Well, no-one expected them to win the Twenty20 World Cup last year, but they did. England have really grown as a force in the shorter formats of the game, and after a long (and hopefully successful) Ashes tour Down Under in Australia, England will be in good shape. It’s been a very good year for English cricket, and why not back them to continue their good run? The One Day International format would have struck fear into England fans over twelve months ago, but England have improved enormously and that is thanks to the selectors being a bit braver in their selections. England are in a group with Bangladesh, India, Ireland, Netherlands, South Africa and the West Indies for the tournament which starts in February. Yes, the hot cricket action really doesn’t stop! Four teams from the two groups will go through to a Quarter Final knockout stage. The tournament is being hosted by India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, so there will be the conditions to deal with, which aren’t really suited to England’s game. It has put the ball in India’s court as favourites really, and the Aussies will no doubt be having a big say in things. But, with England priced as they are, and with a pretty strong batting line up which can be selected from, they really represent some good value.

4 )  2011 Women’s World Cup

England to win – 14/1 at Bwin

England do have a pretty good chance of some glory here. They are not one of the outright favourites, but an impressive 2010 has put them in some pretty good standing. They came through qualification unbeaten in their group, running up a crazy amount of goals all backed up by a solid, watertight defence. Hope Powell has built a pretty strong squad and are well worth a punt. Bwin has them out at 14/1 to win Germany 2011, and yes, they will be up against it, but why not. They are arguably the strongest European team in the tournament behind hosts Germany, and they should come through their group stage without any hassle. They are teamed up with Mexico, New Zealand and Japan. It is only Japan who realistically should cause England any real problems, and it should be a two horse race between those for the group winner. The draw could have been a lot worse for England, so they have a great chance in front of them. Germany, led by Birgit Prinz, who is probably the best woman footballer in the world are outright favourites, and Brazil and the USA will be in the mix as well. England really don’t stand toe-to-toe with the quality that Germany and the USA produce, but you know, being patriotic and hopeful of progressing further than last time, they are worth a long punt. They exited from the 2007 World Cup in the first knockout stage against the USA, but now, with veteran forward Kelly Smith leading the line, England are unbeaten in 10 matches since early 2010. They are currently the ninth ranked team in the world. Ground to make up, but potential.

5 ) Lee Westwood to win a Major in 2011

Yes: 3/1 at Unibet

Why shouldn’t the World Number One be able to win a Major? He came pretty close again during 2010, even carrying an injury. He still looked one of the most natural and comfortable players out on the PGA Tour. He surely has to be destined to win a Major, and as he keeps improving his performances in the Majors, the next natural progression for Westwood will be to land one in 2010. He has worked hard in finally deposing Tiger Woods from his world number one spot and he didn’t show any signs of letting the fantastic accomplishment get to him. Now he just needs to crown himself a Major winner to put that extra bit of gloss on his career. One of the finest strikers of the ball, with immaculate approach work with the irons, Westwood will be a threat wherever he goes. He will be in a lot better shape next year of course if his injuries do not bother him, but at least he gets a bit of a rest now before he hits the fairways next year. Helped Europe win the Ryder Cup this year as well, put it is as if the entire PGA Tour is just waiting for him to lift that Major. In a way it almost seems inevitable. Has to be backed to get that missing feather in his cap.

6 ) 2011 RBS Six Nations

England to win – 9/4 at Totesport

After some good performances in the November series of matches against Southern Hemisphere opposition, England have been instilled as favourites to win the 2011 RBS Six Nations. While England only won two of their four matches in November (against Australia and Samoa), there was a lot more promise there than has been seen for a long, long time. England finally started playing with a bit of adventure, throwing the ball around and running at the opposition instead of kicking aimless balls away. There are still plenty of flaws to their game, but at least they are now addressing one of the biggest ones, developing a cutting edge. Still, in those November matches, the gulf between real finishing power and coming close was evident against South Africa and New Zealand. The Six Nations takes on extra importance for Martin Johnson this year, as there is a World Cup to be contested in 2011. If England are going to be serious contenders there, then they have to be serious contenders to win the RBS Six Nations. England need to continue building momentum, and with the Premiership back in full swing, hopefully there is more to come from England. They have to be brave and tactically sound enough to win the Six Nations in 2011 if they are going to make an impression at the World Cup, and they stand a good chance. France and Ireland will be the main challengers, with the French looking awesome last year. The Irish always play a tight, solid game and they will push hard. It could be a close run thing, the next RBS Six Nations, and if England prevail, it will say a lot about their character.

7 ) 2011 Wimbledon

Andy Murray to win – 7/1 at Victor Chandler

It is what every British tennis fan wants to see. They all want to see the Scot lift the title at Wimbledon, and it will be worth having a punt on Murray there for 2011. That price for a third favourite is worth a flutter! Murray had an OK 2010, but didn’t quite live up to the start he had made by reaching the final of the US Open. Murray lost there to Federer, and while he had some great moments throughout the season in beating Federer and Rafael Nadal, again he could not get over the line to win a Major. His performance at the US Open really summed up his year, as he went in on pretty good form, but then crashed out early, looking a bit fatigued and out of sorts. There has to be more to come from Murray, who spent a lot of the season without a coach. On his day, he has proven that he can take on the best and beat them, that is because he is one of the best players on the ATP Tour. If he can get that same consistency and focus that Nadal and Federer is blessed with, then Murray has the natural talent in him to reach the pinnacle of men’s tennis and get his name in the hall of fame by winning a Major. He will get another four chances next year, so why not see him do it at Wimbledon?

8 ) 2011 Formula One Drivers Championship

Lewis Hamilton – 3/1 at Stan James

Another chance to get all patriotic with your betting. The only thing really which stopped Lewis Hamilton from winning his second Drivers Championship this year, was Lewis Hamilton. The British driver was in a strong position, but he edgy driving caused him to have a couple of crashes towards the end of the season, and he blew his lead and couldn’t catch up. The McLarens really were playing catch up to the Red Bull and Ferrari teams for most of the season, but still Lewis Hamilton put himself in a position to challenge for the title. If the McLarens can now go off to be upgraded properly through winter testing, then there is a great chance for Hamilton to get back to being the best in the world. What Hamilton has is bravery, and is one of the most aggressive drivers on the F1 circuit. It is a fine line which he treads which makes him so dangerous, as he pushes the limits between success and failure, unlike the steady controlled driving of team mate Jenson Button. Exciting to watch, and although he is relying on his team, worth backing to be world number one again in 2011. Hopefully he will have learned from his mistakes this year to make him an even better driver next season.

9 ) 2011 Rugby World Cup

England to win – 12/1 at Totesport

Martin Johnson’s men are currently four favourites to win the 2011 World Cup. They are worth a bet, simply because of their past performances in the tournament. Yes, we all remember the Jonny Wilkinson drop goal against Australia, and yes,  we all remember the try that wasn’t against South Africa in the 2007 World Cup final. That’s two consecutive finals for England, with the latter coming against the odds. England went into that tournament in terrible form, and without much hope, but they showed that they could grind it out when necessary (apart from the final), enjoying a much heralded victory over the Australians along the way. England are in a pool with Argentina, Scotland, Georgia and Romania, and naturally they will be clear favourites to win that group. The All Blacks, the Aussies and the Springboks are all ahead of England in the betting and understandably so. The tournament is in New Zealand, and it should be their time to lift the trophy, as they are simply a phenomenal side, and the Australians have one of the most dangerous back lines in the world. South Africa were crushed by New Zealand and Australia in the Tri-Nations this year, but they got the better of England at Twickenham in November with a great performance. World Cup winners though have pretty much been built on a solid defence, something which has been a strength of England in the past. If they can because hard to beat again, but add that spark of running creativity from the backs, then they are worth an outside bet.

10 – Elena Baltacha World Ranking

Over 61.5 6/7 at Unibet
Couldn’t let any though of the 2011 sporting year pass by without mention of Britain’s Elena Baltacha. Britain’s number one ranked tennis player has been something of an inspiration this year, picking up victories over top ten ranked players in the season, winning titles and being the face of women’s tennis for Britain. Making a return after a long injury to action in 2010, the Scot wasted no time in racing up the rankings and currently sits at a career high of 55th after starting the season in 89th. Always smiling and giving her best, there is a lot of promise and hope that there will be even more to come from her. Baltacha really epitomises British women’s tennis, and with Laura Robson and Heather Wilson coming up behind her, things are looking pretty good at the moment. Keep an eye for her on the WTA Tour.

Champions League Outright Winner Odds

Barcelona: 9/4 at Bet365
Real Madrid: 4/1 at Unibet
Chelsea: 5/1 at BetFred
Manchester United: 8/1 at SkyBet
Bayern Munich: 22/1 at Totesport
AC Milan: 22/1 at BetFred
Tottenham: 24/1 at Unibet
Arsenal: 25/1 at Bet365
Inter Milan: 28/1 at BetFred

It is interesting looking over the outright winner odds for the Champions League at the moment, with the announcement of the draw for the first knockout stage being made on Friday. There are some fascinating ties in prospect, with the motive of revenge playing a big factor. One of the most notable shifts in the odds has been for that of the defending champions Inter Milan, who are way out at 28/1 after being drawn against Bayern Munich. With favorable draws, both Chelsea and Manchester United are well in the running to pick up the coveted trophy, while North London rivals Arsenal and Tottenham will really have their work cut out with tough ties. The draw was made in in Nyon Switzerland, and now the teams involved have plenty of time to prepare themselves for the trials ahead. The middle of February will see the return of Champions League football and the final next year is being held at Wembley. So it would be fitting in a way if an English side made it to the final, however the biggest challenges that everyone has to come, is trying to get past Barcelona and Real Madrid, who are the front runners to take the title. Here is a look at the draw and for things to come.

February 15th, 2011

AC Milan v Tottenham Hotspur
Valencia v Schalke

In their debut season in the Champions League, Spurs head back Milan for the second time. In their first trip in the group stage against Inter Milan, they were beaten 4-3, but got the better of things back at White Hart Lane. This is another tough trip to the San Siro for Spurs, and it could be a tougher task. AC Milan are currently sitting atop of Serie A with a six point lead. Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Robinho and Pato are shining for the club at the moment, with twenty one goals scored between them in the league so far this season. In their Champions League group, the Milan side came through in second place behind Real Madrid, holding the Spaniards to a 2-2 draw at the San Siro. This should be a different challenge for Harry Redknapp this time against the other Milan side. AC Milan are a much more organized side, but with a good attacking display by Spurs and some bravery, the Milanese are beatable. Ajax proved that in their final group match against AC Milan, the Italians crumbled under a superb attacking display by the Dutch side. Spaniards Valencia qualified in second place behind Manchester United. They will face a stern test against German’s Schalke, who grew into the competition well, beating out Lyon for top spot. Looks to be a fairly evenly matched contest.

February 16th, 2011

Arsenal v Barcelona
Roma v Shakhtar Donetsk

Arsenal have paid the ultimate price for not winning their group. Two away defeats in their group has really ruined their chances of going deep into the competition, and coming in as runner up to Ukrainians Shakhtar Donetsk has landed them a draw against outright favourites Barcelona. This is a repeat of last season’s encounter between the two sides at the Quarter Final stage of the competition. Arsenal held Barca to a draw at the Emirates in the first leg, but were blown away by Lionel Messi in the return fixture, when the brilliant little Argentinean scored all four goals in a 4-1 Barcelona win. Both games were highly entertaining between two great passing sides, now the draw pits the two sides against each other again. Arsenal are better equipped this time around, but you have to look at the strengths of Barcelona and see what a phenomenally tough challenge they will be up against. The Gunners could well see their Champions League campaign cut short this year, and highlights the importance of winning your group. These encounters should again be entertaining and one of the best on a fascinating list of first knockout stage fixtures. Claudio Ranieri’s Roma get to host Shakhtar Donetsk, the side which toppled Arsenal and beat them to top spot in the group stage. Now Roma, who finished five points behind Bayern Munich in their group, made harder work of an easy group than was expected. Sitting sixth in Serie A, they are now facing Ukrainians Shakhtar, who really have the potential of being the dark horse of the tournament. They really shouldn’t fear Roma all that much, especially after beating Arsenal in the group stage, who are arguably better than the Italians. The difference between the two is that the expectancy will be higher on Roma, but if you are looking for an underdog bet to come through, then Shaktar will be well worth a look in this fixture.

February 22, 2011

FC Copenhagen v Chelsea
Lyon v Real Madrid

Well, FC Copenhagen really have been one of the bright sparks in the Champions League this year, finishing second in their group behind Barcelona. They are the first Danish club to make it into the knockout stage of the competition, and they will fancy their chances against an out of sorts Chelsea. Of course, Chelsea could be in much better form than they are now, come February 22nd, but FC Copenhagen will have their spirits high, backing themselves with their unbeaten run of six matches at home in the Champions League. That includes visits from Barcelona and Manchester United. It will be a reunion for Jesper Gronkjaer and Chelsea, as the winger served Chelsea well for a few years. The key to this tie will be Copenhagen getting something good from the first leg to hang on to at Stamford Bridge. They will be the underdogs against the experienced side, but as they have shown this season, the Danes are not going to go down without a fight. The two sides have met before, back in 1999 in the Cup Winners Cup. Chelsea lost 1-0 in Copenhagen then, and could only tie at Stamford Bridge. Omens? It’s not a bad draw for Chelsea, as you would expect them to get through this, even though it is a tricky tie. Copenhagen are having a phenomenal domestic season, it really is remarkable and worth looking at. It could have been a lot worse to be honest. Chelsea are still one of the favourites to go on and lift the Champions League for the first time in their history, and after winning five out of six group matches, they will need their professionalism to get through this one.

For Lyon and Real Madrid, the Spaniards will probably be out for revenge. Why? Because the French side have been a thorn in their side in the Champions League. In six encounters between the two sides, Madrid have yet to beat Lyon, and the French side hold a 100% winning record at home against Real Madrid, while all of their visits to Madrid have ended in draw matches. It was a great 1-1 tie away from home which saw them progress past Real Madrid in last year’s quarter finals, after beating the Galacticos 1-0 at home. Revenge has to be on the mind of Madrid, and you have to think that coach Jose Mourinho will have something special up his sleeve for them. Real Madrid topped their Champions League group easily enough and are second favourite behind rivals Barcelona to win the tournament outright. Out of all the teams they could have faced in the second round, Lyon were probably the ones which they were hoping to avoid. It does give Madrid a good chance to test their resolve though, and they are a better side under Jose Mourinho this year, and you wouldn’t really think twice against backing them. Lyon are a good side, but haven’t quite risen to the occasion this year, letting the group lead slip through their fingers to Schalke. This is not the same Madrid side which were in the competition last year. One defeat in 23 competitive games under Mourinho’s guidance, and Madrid are strong favourites.

February 23, 2011

Marseille v Manchester United
Inter Milan v Bayern Munich

Well, Marseille stopped Chelsea from winning all six group matches, with a 1-0 home win over Carlo Ancelotti’s men. Chelsea had already won the group then though, so it is hard to read too much into that result. The French side struggled through the early group matches, but then came to life, sticking seven goals past Zilina. That was after scraping past the Slovenians 1-0 in Marseille. So they are a bit hot and cold, and you have to look at them and not really see them as much of a threat to Manchester United really. United pretty much bored their way through their group stage, looking untroubled, unbothered and to be honest, uninterested. They simply did enough to secure their place at the top of the group ahead of Valencia, and you have to expect more to come from the Red Devils. Manchester United do not look as if they have enough quality to go all the way and win the competition this year, but really you would expect them to get into the quarter finals at the expense of Didier Deschamps’ Marseille. The French aren’t a bad side, but when it comes to standing toe to toe with one of the most experienced Champions League teams around, then it should be the English side progressing.

Inter Milan v Bayern Munich throws up another great revenge match. This of course is a repeat of last year’s final, which the Italians won, under Jose Mourinho’s guidance. Now under Rafa Benitez, they have slipped backwards a bit, as was to be expected really, and aren’t seen as one of the strong challengers for the title this year. In fact, it may be a little bit surprising if they even get past Bayern Munich to be honest. The Germans are a much stronger side, and have won on their only two visits to the San Siro to face Inter Milan. Of course there will be revenge on their minds for last year’s final, and out of the two sides, they looked the better during qualification. Bayern cruised through their group and should be favourites to progress through this one.

We now know who the last sixteen teams left in the Champions League are, after the Group Stages were all wrapped up in the week. Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur all won their groups, while Arsenal could only come in second in theirs. The draw for the first knockout stage will be held on December 17th, and the draw is split into two pots. There will be eight seeded teams, which were the group winners, and eight runner-up teams which include Arsenal and defending Champions Inter Milan. A seeded team will be pitted against a team from the runners-up pot, which could throw up some very interesting ties for the first knockout stage of this year’s tournament. This was the importance of winning the group, as it should allow for a slightly easier passage through to the quarter finals of the tournament. Both Inter Milan and Arsenal may now have to do things the hard way. With this being UEFA, the draw of course is not as simple as that, because no team can be drawn against one from their own country, and cannot play the team which finished as runners-up in their group either. So this kind of narrows down the potential opponents awaiting teams, so here we will take a look at the four English clubs left in the tournament, and their chances of winning the Champions League outright this year. We also cast a look at competition favourites Barcelona and Real Madrid, and who they can possibly face when the action returns next year.

Knockout Stage Draw: Seven teams left in the competition have won the European Cup before, there are three new clubs in this round for the first time, and nine of the sixteen reached this stage last season. The fixtures will be played on February 15th/16th and February 22nd/23rd, and the second legs will be played on March 8th/9th or March 15th/16th.

Seeded Teams: Tottenham, Schalke, Manchester United, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Chelsea, Real Madrid, Shakhtar Donetsk
Runner Up Teams: Inter Milan, Lyon, Valencia, FC Copenhagen, Roma, Marseille, AC Milan, Arsenal

Tottenham Hotspur – 18/1 at Bet365

Put in a fantastic effort on their Champions League debut to win Group A. It was their crucial victory over Inter Milan at White Hart Lane which really turned the tables around, and they will be rewarded for their efforts with a good draw for the knockout stage. They can face either Lyon, Valencia, FC Copenhagen, Roma, Marseille or AC Milan. To be honest, there is not too much there for them to fear, Harry Redknapp continues to be as brave as he has been through the tournament, then the explosive Spurs have a realistic chance of reaching the Quarter Finals of the competition. Lyon and AC Milan are the stand out names there really, but both have their vulnerabilities which an attacking Tottenham could exploit. Still perhaps a bit too green around the edges to win the Champions League, but they are really making their mark.

Manchester United – 9/1 at Victor Chandler

Struggled through a boring group, and came tops after holding Valencia to a draw at Old Trafford in the final game. There should be a lot more to come from United, who have not been an inspirational side to watch this season in the tournament. They certainly haven’t been the explosive, dominant old Manchester United, but then, they got the job done of winning the group without getting into top gear, so it says a lot about their pedigree in the tournament. United can face Inter Milan, Lyon, FC Copenhagen, Roma, Marseille or AC Milan in the first knockout stage. The three times European Champions will fancy their chances of getting through, but a better United effort will be needed, with Lyon and the two Milan sides possible big threats in there. They’ll be hoping for Copenhagen or Marseille, just to make life all that much easier.

Chelsea – 11/2 at Paddy Power

Failed to become the first English side to win all six group matches, after losing their final match away to Marseille on match day six. It didn’t matter as the group was already won by then, and in pretty easy fashion by the London side. The competition will start stiffening up, and Chelsea, who have yet to add a European Cup to their trophy cabinet, can play Lyon, Valencia, FC Copenhagen, Roma, AC Milan, or Inter Milan, who dumped them out of the tournament in the knockout phase last season. Chelsea are not playing well at the moment, but you would expect by the time the first knockout stage comes around, they will be back in some kind of form, especially after the January transfer window, as they may well have to spend to fix their problems. Will their season of turmoil in the Premier League end up being one of their ultimate highs in Europe? They should still have the quality to go deep, and are seen as the best English club in the tournament. Could face a tough knockout stage if they haven’t gotten their game together by February.

Arsenal – 18/1 at Coral

The Gunners may just pay the price for not winning their Champions League group. They really have drawn the short straw here, as the only four teams which they can face in the next round are of German or Spanish origin. Arsenal will draw either Schalke, Bayern Munich, Barcelona or Real Madrid. There is a clear side which they would want to land, as they look likely to face one of the tournament favourites. Arsenal bowed out of the competition against Barcelona last season, and now they have put themselves right back in line for making another early exit. Their chances of winning the Champions League this season have seriously diminished after a very strong start to proceedings. They really won’t want to face either of the Spanish teams, and squaring off against Schalke looks to be their best bet for going deeper.

Real Madrid – 15/4 at Unibet

The Spaniards, who have been in hot form this year can play either Lyon, FC Copenhagen, Roma, Marseille, Arsenal or Inter Milan in the first knockout stage of the competition. With Jose Mourinho at the helm, who guided Inter to victory in the competition last year, they make a serious contender to go all the way this year, especially with the blistering form Cristiano Ronaldo is in. Inter Milan may be the toughest opponents for them here to draw, but still, you would expect the strong Spaniards to progress to at least the semi finals this season. May want to avoid Lyon, who seems to have figured out just how to take down Madrid, including knocking them out last season.

Barcelona – 5/2 at BetFred

The Spaniards are the outright favourites with the bookmakers to lift the title this year. It is hard to back against them really. There are some potential big names which they can draw in the first knockout stage of the Champions League when the draw is made on December 17th, because Inter Milan, AC Milan and Arsenal could be in their path, along with Roma and Lyon. For the favourites though, with Lionel Messi in the form of his life, Barcelona really do not look as if they will be stopped by any of this opposition. The road to the final at Wembley won’t be easy in the Champions League, but then this is Barcelona, and it may just be easier for them than any other team left in the last sixteen.

Unsurprisingly, Barcelona are still the bookmakers’  favourites for the Champions League ahead of the draw for the last 16, set to be staged in Zurich next week. Pep Guardiola‘s team qualified from Group D in a canter and were even able to field a largely second string against Rubin Kazan in midweek. Tougher tests now await Barca, with the possibility of a second-round clash with either Arsenal or holders Inter a distinct possibility, but Messi and company are undoubtedly the most attractive club side in world football on their day and there are likely to be plenty of takers for the current 5/2 available from several layers for them to regain the trophy.

Inter clearly aren’t the same team under Rafa Benitez as they were under Jose Mourinho and are 10 points off arch-rivals Milan in Serie A. They were also edged out of top spot in Group A of the Champions League by Spurs, conceding 11 goals in six games in the process, and can currently be backed at a general 25/1 to win Europe’s premier club tournament for a second successive year. Tottenham themselves are now into a general 18/1, the same price as Arsenal (Coral) after the Gunners failed to secure a seeding for the last 16 draw, despite a 3-1 victory over Partizan Belgrade in their final Group H match. As well as Barcelona, Arsene Wenger‘s men will now go into the pot with Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Schalke.

Chelsea still topped their section despite losing their 100 per cent record in this season’s competition against Marseille. Their current run of form is a big worry for Blues’ fans but there are too many world-class players at Stamford Bridge for it to continue for much longer. If it does, Carlo Ancelotti may not be in charge when the knockout stages start in February and extrabet, Paddy Power and Victor Chandler have all pushed Chelsea out to 11/2 to win the final at Wembley in May. Manchester United, meanwhile, are available at 9/1 with Victor Chandler and on betfair, despite securing top spot in their group and only conceding one goal so far.

Real Madrid are currently a best 7/2 second choice with layers, despite being battered by Barcelona in the Primera Liga recently while other traditional European big guns Bayern Munich, losing finalists in 2009, are a general 16/1 and Milan can be backed at 25/1 with sportingbet. At the other end of the scale FC Copenhagen, who have reached the knockout stages for the first time in their history, are 200/1 with Betfred, extrabet and Stan James.