And then there were four. The race for the 2019 Women’s World Cup is well and truly on – and all four remaining teams will fancy their chances of glory.

Lifting the showpiece trophy in women’s football is the ultimate goal for every player involved this summer and they are now just 90 minutes away from a date with destiny in Lyon on July 7^th.

The United States (22/25) stand in the way of a first Women’s World Cup final for England. Team USA are widely regarded as the best female team around and Jill Ellis will have her players fired up and primed for a huge effort on Tuesday night.

Meanwhile, Phil Neville will try to conjure up a plan to stop the USA in their bid to secure back-to-back World Cup titles.

In the second Women’s World Cup semi-final, the Netherlands face Sweden in what could be a fascinating encounter. Holland were crowned European champions in 2017 but this is their first appearance in a World Cup semi-final.

Meanwhile, Sweden have reached the semi-finals in two of the previous four tournaments and that experience could be key.

So, let’s take a look at both Women’s World Cup 2019 matches. There is so much at stake for all four nations and it is an exciting time for the women’s game. Fingers crossed for lots of goals and excitement – there’s no hiding place at this stage of the competition.

 

ENGLAND vs UNITED STATES

Can England’s Lionesses do what England’s men failed to do last summer and reach a World Cup final? Based on their performance in the last eight, you’d have to say that Phil Neville’s side have every chance. Sit back, relax and watch what could be a fantastic contest…

England never really got out of first gear in the group stages but the Lionesses took their game to new heights in their 3-0 victory over Norway last time out. Ellen White has been as consistent as ever in front of goal and she could pip her rivals to the Golden Boot award.

The 16/5 available for England to win in 90 minutes is tempting. Defensively, the Lionesses are robust and the United States will have to work hard to break England down. Team USA haven’t come up against an attacking unit like England this summer and that could play into England’s hands.

With Germany suffering a shock defeat in the quarter-finals, Team USA’s route to a fourth Women’s World Cup trophy is a little easier. 888sport football betting odds have the United States at 3/4 to win the tournament this summer and they are looking scarily good.

They set a new record for the biggest win in World Cup history in the group stages, putting 13 goals past a hapless Thailand. Since then, the USA have been much more efficient though they did come under late pressure from hosts France in the previous round.

However, Ellis’ side repelled the waves of French attack and confidence is high ahead of this clash with England. The 11/10 for over 1.5 United States goals on Tuesday night should be snapped up ahead of this Women’s World Cup semi-final.

 

NETHERLANDS vs SWEDEN

The Netherlands will be confident of reaching their first Women’s World Cup final this summer – and who could blame them? With five wins from five games, Holland have been one of the standout teams and they deserve to feature in the showpiece.

We’ve had some low-scoring matches in the 2019 competition but the Netherlands tend to consistently score goals. With two or more goals in four of their five games, backing Holland to score over 1.5 goals at 29/20 could be the way to go.

Holland have won the last two meetings between the sides without conceding a goal and it may prove prudent to back that outcome again here. Punters can get 13/5 for Netherlands to win to nil on Wednesday night – that may be the best bet of the semi-finals.

Sweden came from behind to defeat Germany in the quarter-finals and it would be unwise to write Peter Gerhardsson’s side off completely. Capable of holding their own at this level, Sweden could spring another Women’s World Cup shock.

With just one defeat so far this summer, Sweden have been consistently strong and Holland will be wary of an upset. They have had the beating of Sweden in recent years but this is the World Cup semi-finals and anything can happen.

888sport’s latest football betting odds have Sweden at 9/4 to win in 90 minutes. A second Women’s World Cup final appearance beckons if the Swedes get their game plan right – the Netherlands aren’t invincible and Sweden could exploit their weaknesses.

 

*Odds subject to change - correct at time of writing*

Football fans, strap yourselves in – it’s going to be a thrilling ride. There are just four team remaining in the 2019 Copa America and predicting an outright winner at this stage is still incredibly tough.

Brazil, 4/5 favourites in 888's sports betting odds, have home advantage but Tite’s side have failed to inspire confidence for large parts of this summer’s competition.

A mouth-watering clash with arch rivals Argentina awaits in the early hours of Wednesday morning. The game is scheduled to get underway at 1:30am but it could be worth staying up for.

Brazil and Argentina are two of the strongest teams in international football and plenty of punters will be expecting a top-quality affair in Belo Horizonte.

The second semi-final sees Chile, Copa America winners in 2015 and 2016, face Peru. While this contest may not be as glamorous on paper, both countries have their own scintillating brand of football and this could turn out to be some spectacle.

888sport football odds have priced Chile up as early favourites at 9/10 to win inside 90 minutes.

Without further ado, it is time to take a closer look at both Copa America 2019 semi-finals. This is the business end of the competition and it is ‘do or die time’ for all four nations. Let’s hope for an exciting and entertaining double header…

 

BRAZIL vs ARGENTINA

Touted as favourites to lift the Copa America crown for the first time since 12 years, Brazil have struggled to cope with the weight of expectation so far this summer. Booed off the pitch on several occasions, Tite’s men need a statement victory and they need it quickly.

Beating Argentina would certainly go down well with Brazil supporters across the country and all will be forgiven for their sub-par efforts if they can reach the 2019 Copa America final. 4/5 for Brazil to win inside the scheduled 90 minutes is a decent price.

Gremio star Everton Soares has been one of Brazil’s top performers this summer and he could make the difference here. Priced at 14/5 to score in Wednesday’s Copa America 2019 semi-final, Everton is one of our players to watch for the future.

However, it would be foolish to write Argentina off. The 14-time Copa America champions last lifted South America’s prestigious trophy in 1993 and the entire nation will be hoping for that run to end this year. With Brazil stuttering, you never know…

Lionel Messi has not been at his brilliant best but this could be his time to shine on the Copa America big stage. Leading Argentina to the 2019 Copa America final would be an incredible achievement and Messi is a 13/5 chance to get his name on the scoresheet.

Brazil should prove too strong for Argentina but this is the Copa America and anything can happen. Both teams to score is the value bet at 11/10 and we could see lots of goal-mouth action in this contest. What a way to start the 2019 Copa America semi-finals!

 

CHILE vs PERU

Chile were tipped to struggle in most pre-tournament Copa America 2019 predictions but it hasn’t panned out that way for Reinaldo Rueda’s side. Winners of the last two Copa America tournaments, Chile are still capable of holding their own on the international stage.

Alexis Sanchez, virtually non-existent for Manchester United in 2018/19, has stepped up to the plate this summer. With two group stage goals and the winning penalty in the Copa America quarter-finals, Sanchez is in good form and 47/20 to score is a decent price.

La Roja continue to defy the odds and 9/10 for Chile to win in 90 minutes offers reasonable value. A 1-0 group stage defeat to Uruguay is the only blemish on their 2019 Copa America record and Chile will be quietly confident of reaching the final for the third time in a row.

Like Argentina, it would be unwise to write Peru off though. Chile haven’t been perfect by any stretch of the imagination and punters may fancy a surprise semi-final result. The 18/5 with 888sport for Peru to advance to the final offers immense value.

A Peru win wouldn’t go down as one of the greatest Copa America shocks but it would raise eyebrows across South America. Peru have failed to score in three of their four games this summer but 10/13 for over 0.5 goals here looks like a good bet.

The heart says Peru but the head says Chile – experience at this level is vital and those two Copa America victories could help Rueda’s men here. Peru will give it a good go though and this one could go the distance if Ricardo Gareca’s side stand resolute in defence.

 

*Odds subject to change - correct at time of writing*

With Royal Ascot 2019 now at an end, from an ante post betting point of view it is well worth picking through the results with a fine toothcomb and finding out what the future plans are for many of the runners.

Naturally it pays to focus on the Royal winners going forward, but there are also lots of horses that filled the places that should go down in your notebook too.

Gold Cup hero Stradivarius is now on a seven-race winning streak, with his last defeat coming on Champions Day in 2017.

"What an amazing horse he is. He is a horse for the big occasion and I love him dearly," said his jockey Frankie Dettori.

"I am only nervous because the people care so much about this horse. It's a wonderful story. Every time he runs he delivers."

Stradivarius will now head to the Goodwood Cup and will attempt to win it for a third time. If he does so he will equal Double Trigger’s hat-trick of victories in the race (1995,’97 and ’98).

Melbourne Cup scorer Cross Counter finished fourth at Ascot and will also head to Goodwood for Charlie Appleby, while fifth-placed Flag Of Honour will have an entry for Aidan O’Brien.

The Mark Johnston-trained runner-up Dee Ex Bee looks all set to rock up at Goodwood too with connections indicating that different tactics will be employed this time.

“Going forward, we are thinking that it is probably not ideal for our horse to make his own running. Having something to aim at might help him, as he enjoys a battle” said assistant trainer, Charlie Johnston.

Britannia scorer and bookies saviour Biometric will probably be seen at the Glorious Goodwood meeting next but at present does not hold any engagements. Runner-up Turgonev is likely to run in the Golden Mile at the same venue.

South Pacific, who led home stablemates Constantinople and Eminence in the King George V Stakes will head to the Goodwood Cup before having a crack at the Irish St Leger.

Mark Johnston’s Persian Moon, who finished fourth behind three Aidan O'Brien runners, will probably head to Goodwood too.

"It was very exciting, and we were thrilled. We might have a go at the big three-year-old mile-and-a-half handicap at Glorious Goodwood next.

"That might be the plan. We'll see how it goes" said Persian Moon’s racing manager.

The Duchess of Cambridge Stakes at Newmarket is the next target for the Albany runner-up Celtic Beauty.

The race winner Daahyeh has been installed into next year’s horse racing betting odds with 888sport for the QIPCO 1000 Guineas.

Brian Meehan, trainer of the 100/1 third-placed Aroha, said: "The Lowther would be the race that comes to mind and then the Cheveley Park. She doesn't need too much more. That was her fourth run.”

Aidan O'Brien has earmarked two potential options for Japan following his rousing victory in the King Edward VII Stakes.

O'Brien said: "We probably have two choices with him. There is either the Grand Prix de Paris (at ParisLongchamp on July 14) or come back to Ascot for the King George (July 27).

O'Brien must also be tempted to have a go at the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe later in the year. Japan is priced between 12-1 and 16-1 for Europe's richest race. 

The Phoenix Thoroughbred-owned Advertise has come out of the Commonwealth Cup well and is on target for the July Cup, for which he is a 3/1 chance with us here at 888sport.

Also prominent in the betting for the July Cup is the Wokingham winner Cape Byron, who was racing over six furlongs for the first time at Royal Ascot and is currently trading at 6/1 for the Group 1 sprint.

French raider Watch Me provided a 20-1 shock victory over Aidan O'Brien's Hermosa when landing the Coronation Stakes.

The Francis-Henri Graffard-trained daughter of Olympic Glory will probably have a longer-term engagement at the Arc meeting at Longchamp in early October.

When Thanks Be triumphed in the Sandringham Handicap Hayley Turner became only the second female jockey to ride a Royal Ascot winner. It will definitely be worth following the first half dozen fillies in this race in the future.

Baghdad held on gamely in the Duke of Edinburgh Stakes and made it a Royal Ascot double after scoring in the King George V Stakes last year.

Early entries for the four-year-old include the Tattersall’s Stakes and the Bet365 Trophy at Newmarket, plus the Irish St Leger in September.

Pinatubo broke the track record when taking the Chesham on the final day of Royal Ascot. "We'll step up in class now, obviously.

"Something like the Vintage Stakes (at Goodwood) could be for him, the way he travels. The National Stakes (at the Curragh) wouldn't be out of the question later” said his elated trainer, Charlie Appleby.

After a narrow victory in the Jersey Stakes, Space Traveller will be staying at the same trip for the foreseeable future.

"That's the next step for him, the Lennox (at Goodwood) - something like that and that would suit him well. It is the only place we can go really” said his trainer Richard Fahey.

Fresh from taking the Hardwicke Stakes, Roger Varian’s Defoe looks set to return to Ascot in a bid for more Group One success in the King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Stakes where he likely to go head-to-head with Arc heroine Enable.

As we speculated in last week’s Royal Ascot review double-winner Blue Point has indeed been retired.

"Blue Point has a fantastic mind, is a natural athlete and was a pleasure to train. I have every confidence he will, like his sire Shamardal, be a huge success as a stallion" said Charlie Appleby.

Runaway Wokingham victor Cape Byron will need to put his best hoof forward again if he is to score in the ultra-competitive July Cup.

And finally, Queen Alexandra Stakes winner Cleonte may well take on the mighty Stradivarius in the Goodwood Cup.

That concludes all the horse racing news from Royal Ascot 2019. We really hope you have some success playing the future ante post markets.

 

*Odds subject to change - correct at time of writing*

It has been labelled silly season by fans as newspaper columns and tabloid websites publish transfer gossip, ranging from the unlikely to the outrageous, in an attempt to keep readers interested during the summer months.

Much of what we come across can be filed under nonsense, but this season seems different as clubs from the Premier League aim to make their moves early.

The transfer window has been altered to coincide with the opening weekend of the 2019/20 season which gets started on Friday 9th August at Anfield where Liverpool take on Norwich.

That seems to have geed managers up a bit and we have seen a flurry of transfer activity during June with teams like Aston Villa, Man Utd, West Ham and Wolves moving on their transfer targets.

This is just the start, so it’s best to keep track odds and changes on the 888sport mobile betting app alongside other news or football betting apps.

Let’s peel back the headlines and take a closer look…

 

Aston Villa Have Been Busy

Aston Villa have been busy in the transfer market as they aim to hold their own on their return to the Premier League.

Many bookmakers have them picked as one of the favourites to be relegated but The Villans are an ambitious lot and the board have backed Dean Smith’s vision for the future.

Fans can take heart from last season’s efforts when they snuck into the top tier through the play-offs and with the right signings there’s no reason why they can’t perform above expectations, especially in the first half of the campaign.

One of the first names to arrive at Villa Park this summer was former Birmingham attacker Jota who penned a two-year deal, joining forces with Dean Smith who he worked with at Brentford.

The Spaniard was one of the standout performers for Birmingham last season and his form caught the eye of Smith who believes he deserves a step up and will be of use this year.

Brazilian Striker Has Fans Excited

The 28-year-old is certainly no stranger to English football and will be keen to hit the ground running with his new employers. This looks a fairly safe investment by the Villa manager who knows exactly what he’s getting with Jota and obviously trusts the player.

The step up in class from Championship to Premier League is huge, it’ll be interesting to see how he copes.

Jota’s arrival has been backed up by the signings of 24-year-old Dutch international winger Anwar El Ghazi from Lille, London born defender Kortney Hause who was bought for £3m from Wolves following a successful load spell, and Wesley Moraes.

The latter is a 6ft 3inch Brazilian striker who has already got fans talking. The 22-year-old played 107 times for Club Brugge, scoring more than 30 goals and all eyes will be on him when Villa get started against Tottenham in London.

The signings made so far suggest Dean Smith aims to go on the attack this season, but what do 888Sport traders make of the club’s chances of survival.

The betting suggests they have taken up position on the fence, offering an eye-catching 9/2 for a top 10 finish. Relegation is seen as a more likely outcome and punters will find plenty of 2/1 around.

The Pressure's On Solskjaer

Moving from a side expected to spend much of the season at the wrong end of the table to one struggling under the weight of expectation. This is a vitally important campaign for Manchester United and manager Ole Gunnar Solkskjaer.

The former Red Devils player was brought in to replace Jose Mourinho in the second half of last season and made a blistering start.

The gaffer instantly transformed the fortunes of his side, pushing them into contention for a top four finish, but they staggered across the finish line, ending down in sixth.

Missing out on the riches of Champions League football was a real body blow for a club with United’s outgoings and although in an ideal world the young manager would be given the kind of time afforded to Sir Alex Ferguson in the early part of his career, it’s just not a luxury that can be spared in modern football.

Ole’s side must show serious improvement on last season, either by finishing in the top four of the Premier League or following Chelsea’s example and winning the Europa League.

There’s money available to spend as the Old Trafford board understand the team needs to be strengthened in just about every department but Solskjaer hasn’t been as active in the transfer window so far as fans would’ve hoped.

With Chelsea in turmoil at the minute, losing both Eden Hazard and Mauricio Sarri, there’s an opportunity for United to take the bull by the horns and really push for a top four finish in the coming months.

A convincing summer is needed, and they must follow that with a strong start to the season.

Welsh Wonderkid's In Town

Daniel James was brought in from Swansea and that’s seen as a decent move, although it has done little to excite fans, especially casual followers.

The 21-year-old winger has been capped at every level for Wales from U17s through to the senior squad and was one of the standouts during what was a poor season for The Swans last time.

£12m has been sunk into this transfer and that will only increase expectations on the young man who will be asked to get his new employers up the park, quickly turning defence into attack.

A lot of weight to place on the newbie’s shoulders but Solskjaer has shown faith in his abilities and the player will be keen to repay that. If James can catch the eye of his boss, there’s every chance he’ll be handed a starting roll against Chelsea on 11 August.

A decent enough start from the club but they will have to spend big in the coming weeks if they are to dampen the growing unrest amongst supporters.

Manchester United have been written off as 25/1 no hopers with 888Sport to win the Premier League and that looks about fair, although there will be interest in that quote from the value hunters amongst us.

A top four finish would do for the Red Devils board and that has been chalked up as an even money shot.

Wan-Bissaka Arrives In Big Money Deal

21-year-old right back Aaron Wan-Bissaka arrived at Old Trafford from Crystal Palace in a deal thought to be worth in the region of £50m.

It has been reported that the England U21 international will scoop a staggering £80,000 per week and it was a move that caught may off guard.

Fresh from his efforts at the U21 European Championships, Wan Bissaka wants to continue the form that saw him catch the eye last season.

It’s already apparent Solskjaer is targeting young, hungry players who want to make a name for themselves at one of the biggest clubs in the world.

Pellegrini Targets Europe For Hammers

The winds of change are blowing through Stratford as West Ham are challenged with improving on last season’s mid-table finish.

The Hammers ended 10^th last term and that went down as a decent effort following a poor start, but more is expected of a side with a fantastic new stadium and money to spend.

A return to Europe is long overdue and regulars at the former Olympic Stadium are beginning to demand a return on their investment.

There hasn’t been an awful lot for the claret and blue faithful to cheer in recent years, but Manuel Pellegrini is hoping he’s the man to change all that. The jury is still out on the former Man City manager and he’ll be judged on how his side fair this term.

West Ham are ringing the changes, showing many of their misfiring stars the door while bringing in reinforcements in an attempt to freshen things up and change the mentality in the dressing room.

There’s something in the east London air that tells us merely competing at the top level won’t be enough anymore. The club must move towards European football and go deep in the two cup competitions.

Easier said than done in a Premier League that seems to get more competitive in every department year on year.

A big ask but there’s nothing to say West Ham can’t drive at the top eight and ask questions of the likes of Everton and Wolves who finished just a few points ahead of them last time.

Fornals Will Do His Talking On The Pitch

Pellegrini unveiled Pablo Fornals and although the 23-year-old Spaniard didn’t immediately set pulses racing when his £24m transfer from Villarreal was confirmed, the attacking midfielder does boast a couple of caps for Spain and that doesn’t come cheaply.

Not a household name just yet, Fornals will be confident in his ability to let football do the talking and if he can help get his new employers higher up the park and on the front foot, he’ll have the fans chanting his name in no time.

Fornals was a product of the Malaga youth system, coming through the ranks at La Rosaleda where he scored seven goals in almost 60 appearances.

His fearless attitude and attacking style of play caught the eye of Villarreal who took advantage of a 12m Euros buyout clause in the youngster’s contract.

It proved a shrewd move as he went on to play 70 times for The Yellow Submarine, both in La Liga and in Europe, as well as featuring for The Red Fury at U21 and senior level.

Pablo is a player who loves to get forward with the ball at his feet and he’s one that’ll entertain the crowds, dragging supporters up out of their seats.

How much of a difference will he make to this West Ham side? There’s a decent 13/10 available at 888sport on them matching the efforts of last season and finishing in the top 10, 14/1 they end in the best half dozen.

The former is sure to be popular, especially with punters building accumulators.

Hungry Like The Wolves

Wolverhampton Wanderers upset the expectations of many when finishing seventh last season and sealing Europa League qualification.

It was better than fans dared to dream this time last year, but it was a deserved achievement thanks to a record of 16 wins, nine draws and 13 defeats.

Manager Nuno Espirito Santo will now enjoy the backing of the board as he aims to build a squad capable of handling the intense schedule that comes with campaigning on the continent.

Raul Jiminez isn’t exactly a fresh face at the Molineux as the 28-year-old Mexican striker played 38 times for the club while on loan from Benfica, but the move has been made permanent and that will only help settle the scorer.

He seems to be enjoying his football in England, chipping in with 13 goals and his recent form has also earned him a regular slot in the Mexican attack. Jiminez will be key to any success Wolves have in 2020.

Matching the levels of last season is going to be a big ask for Wolves but traders are in no rush to write them off, having had their fingers burnt last season.

Improvement to a top six finish has been priced at 9/2, a top four unlikely at a market best price of 16/1 with 888sport. Holding their ground and ending in the top 10 seems much more likely and can be backed at 2/5.

 

*Odds subject to change - correct at time of writing*

Wimbledon 2019 is here. The only grass court Grand Slam event of the year is always one of the highlights of the tennis season and punters will be lining up their tournament bets.

At the time of writing, Novak Djokovic tops the betting at 7/5 in the Wimbledon odds for the men’s draw with Ashleigh Barty leading the way at 11/2 in the women’s competition.

Traditionally, Wimbledon has been the most lucrative Grand Slam tennis event but the grass court tournament will lose that status in 2019.

According to reports, there will be a grand total of £34.5 million available in prize money across the men’s and women’s competitions this year, with a massive £2.3 million awarded to the winner of both tournaments.

In comparison, the winners of the 2019 US Open will receive £3 million, the Australian Open 2019 winners were handed a prize money total of £2.52 million and the recently crowned French Open 2019 winners were awarded £2.13 million.

Wimbledon is still more lucrative than the clay court Grand Slam at Roland Garros but it has fallen behind the other events. The prize money available to the two Wimbledon champions in 2019 is in line with that of 2018 and 2017.

While other tournaments have increased revenue on offer to the victorious players, Wimbledon has remained stagnant. Some reports attribute this decision to the drop in GBP value after the Brexit vote while others have put it down to television deals.

If you look directly at the other Grand Slam events, you immediately notice a few interesting facts and figures. First and foremost, the Australian Open are the stingiest in terms of prize money up until and including the third round.

 

 

In 2019 Grand Slam events, the Melbourne-based tournament paid £88,224 for reaching the third round with the US Open offering the highest sum of money at £122,883 for getting to the same stage.

However, the Australian Open are much more rewarding than many of the other tennis Grand Slam events when it comes to the business end of the tournament.

The opening Grand Slam of the calendar year ranks second in terms of prize money for quarter-finalists, semi-finalists, runners up and winners.

Wimbledon’s decision to keep the prize money available at the same rate as 2018 has raised a few eyebrows amongst competitors and tennis fans.

The total amount of money on offer at Wimbledon has more than doubled since 2012 but leading players continue to claim that the grass court Grand Slam event is unfair, with Roger Federer suggesting that more money should be given to those who exit the tournament in the earlier rounds.

Federer has won an incredible eight Wimbledon titles and the Swiss star remains a huge fan favourite with tennis supporters all over the world.

Ahead of Wimbledon 2019, Federer is a 33/10 shot in 888sport’s tennis odds to claim a ninth crown and it wouldn’t be a huge shock to see Federer get the job that. The offer of £2.2 million prize money to the men’s singles champion should serve as motivation…

Wimbledon 2019 has all the makings of a thrilling competition. With the weather forecast looking clear for the opening week of the tournament, fans will be anticipating an exciting week of tennis.

With some of the greatest Wimbledon players of all-time on show, it should be one of the highlights of the 2019 tennis season. You won't want to miss a minute!

 

888sport has tennis markets galore - all the tennis bets you could ever want

 

*Odds subject to change - correct at time of writing*

The cost of watching football on TV has been increasing for many years, but armchair fans are slowly being priced out of being able to watch the beautiful game from the comfort of their own home. 

Football fanatics in the UK are faced with the highest costs, with monthly fees just under £70.

Premier League followers and football betting fans will require three separate subscriptions in order to enjoy all 200 televised games during the course of the 2019/2020 season.

The arrival of Amazon Prime has increased costs yet again for top-flight fans, with the online streaming service winning the rights to broadcast twenty fixtures during the course of the campaign. 

Spanish supporters are set to spend the least on their TV subscriptions, with the majority of La Liga fixtures set to be broadcast on Movistar TV. This can be added to a BeIN Connect subscription for a relatively affordable €16.99 per month.

Eight of the ten matches each weekend will be shown on this service, with a ninth fixture shown free to air on GOL TV – with this sure to be popular with those looking to take advantage of the live betting markets. 

In Italy, Serie A followers and sports betting fans now require two separate packages to enjoy all the action from the domestic top flight, with DAZN recently starting to broadcast three matches per weekend.

The online platform is available at a relatively inexpensive €9.99 per month, meaning that Italian supporters won't be left out of pocket during the course of the campaign. 

Bundesliga followers have also seen the cost of watching football increase in recent years, with Sky Sports charging €44.99 per month for the full sports package.

Eurosport have obtained the rights for Friday night fixtures, with the occasional Sunday game for German football fans charged an extra €6.99 for this service. 

With the Premier League considered to be the "Best League in the World", it is unsurprising that English football fans are keen to renew their subscriptions each year.

Compared to their Spanish and Italian counterparts, where some can even watch matches for free via betting sites, supporters in the UK are set to be charged an extortionate amount to follow every single top-flight encounter next season.

The rising costs of following domestic football are showing very few signs of slowing down across the whole of Europe, which has led some fans to use streaming sites such as Footybite and MamaHD to stream live football.

The Northumberland Plate was previously known as the "Pitmen's Derby" and it originally took place on a Wednesday afternoon. The race then switched to a Saturday afternoon feature in 1952.

Established in 1833, the Northumberland Plate is now one of the richest two-mile handicaps in the world.

Since 2016, it has been run on an artificial all-weather surface, tapeta, having previously been run on the turf.

It may not be Royal Ascot 2019, but Plate Day is the biggest event of the year at the High Gosforth Park course, and after racing the band Madness will perform classics from their huge back catalogue to the assembled crowd.

With any luck you’ll be on a night boat to Cairo after reading through our big race preview...

 

Northumberland Plate 2019: Runners & Riders

Mootasadir (Hugo Palmer)

Boasts a perfect six wins from six starts on an artificial surface and should be back at home on this surface. Last time out he ran in the Belmont Gold Cup (turf) in the United States where he finished seventh.  Looks overpriced in the horse racing odds at around 25/1.

 

Austrian School (Mark Johnston)

Austrian School should relish this track and distance, especially being a half brother to a dual Grand National winner and he could easily creep into proceedings at the business end of the race. Probably found his last race at York a little on the short side.

 

Red Galileo (Saeed Bin Suroor)

The Godolphin-owned gelding was a consistent sort in Meydan over the winter and he improved on his York reappearance by taking a Class 2 handicap at Newmarket last time. He stayed every inch of that 1m 6f race and will be fine back at 2m on the tapeta.

 

Making Miracles (Mark Johnston)

Won this season’s Chester Cup by a country mile in atrocious conditions on the Roodee. I would be inclined to think that his Chester exertions have taken their toll based upon his follow up runs.

 

Desert Skyline (David Elsworth)

Finished fifth to Stradivarius in the Yorkshire Cup before completing in the same spot behind Gold Mount at the same venue. Looks to have plenty to find on the form book.

 

Withhold (Roger Charlton)

Last year’s winner has not been seen since being beaten in Australia when he was being prepared for the Melbourne Cup. Runs of an 8lb higher mark this year but has proved he can do the job after a long layoff.

 

Gibbs Hill (Roger Varian)

Roger Varian's runner has been absent since scoring at Kempton in July 2017 but an almighty gamble has seen him emerge as the antepost favourite.  However, it will take a strong leap of faith to back a horse that has been off the track 724 days.

 

Proschema (Tom Dascombe)

Third to Red Galileo last time out and appeared to struggle getting that trip. Hard to see this four-year-old turning that result around.

 

Stratum (Willie Mullins)

Stratum won over hurdles last month and has to enter calculations based on that plus he is trained by the master Irish NH man. He was well fancied for the Cesarewitch last year but ran very poorly in that.

King's Advice (Mark Johnston)

There’s been six handicap wins on the bounce for Johnston’s winning machine since arriving from Germany, but there is a suspicion that this distance may just be out of his reach.

 

Who Dares Wins (Alan King) - Each Way NAP

Who Dares Wins produced a career-best performance when runner-up in last month’s Chester Cup, a race he excels in, having finished in the frame in the last three.

Winner of the Cesarewitch Trial at Newmarket last year, Who Dares Wins has experienced the tapeta twice before, winning one and finishing third in the other. He should put up a bold show under Tom Marquand.

 

Aircraft Carrier (John Ryan)

Broke the record for the extended two miles at Wolverhampton over the winter but has been struggling off a rating of 100 since. A 43-day break may bring about some renewed vigour.

 

Dubawi Fifty (Karen McLintock) - Each Way NB

The six-year-old, owned by Paul and Clare Rooney, is fit and ready for the prestigious two-mile handicap according to his team.

He must hold every chance based on his second to the Willie Mullins-trained Lagostovegas in the Ascot Stakes.

 

Cohesion (David Bridgwater)

Has gone off the boil somewhat since showing some early promise when trained in France. He has finished stone last on his last three runs and will need to find something extraordinary to figure here.

 

Fearsome (Nick Littmoden)

The Makfi gelding started 2019 off in fine form but he has been on the wain since. This dual purpose performer is another who will need a career best to be in with a shout here.

 

Shabeeb (Ian Williams)

Shabeeb was last seen when being pulled up in the Chester Cup, which he can be excused for as he was returning from a one year layoff. Conditions will be very much better on Saturday and he could run well at big odds.

 

Bartholomeu Dias (Charlie Hills)

Front running type who won a 14-runner contest at Newcastle last time by ½ length from Forbidden Planet. Hard to make all in a race of this nature and he will probably get picked off by a couple late in the day.

 

Cosmelli (Gay Kelleway)

Beaten only three lengths in the 2017 running of the Northumberland Plate, the six-year-old has become a frustrating sort to follow. He failed to stay in the Ascot Stakes at Royal Ascot last time so the jury is out on his optimum distance.

 

Speedo Boy (Ian Williams)

Speedo Boy has performed well on artificial surfaces before and ran a solid enough race behind Red Galileo last time. Won an Intermediate Handicap Hurdle at Cheltenham last November so is clearly a thorough stayer.

 

Time To Study (Ian Williams)

The five-year-old finished sixth behind Withhold last year and on his most recent run he came third to The Grand Visir at the Royal Ascot meeting. Whether this race has come too soon for him remains to be seen.

 

Northumberland Plate 2019: Conclusion

888sport suggests: Who Dares Wins & Dubawi Fifty (e/w) who both can be backed through our sports betting link.

 

*Odds subject to change - correct at time of writing*

We’ve created the most complete team profile so that all Leicester fans will be in the know, with the latest and most interesting facts around Leicester City – from historical stats to betting odds, you will find all the answers regarding the club...

 

Leicester City Betting Tips, Predictions & Winning Odds

Although Leicester sacked Claude Puel and replaced him with Brendan Rodgers midway through the season, they had a relatively solid campaign in 2018/19, finishing ninth in the Premier League.

888sport have all the latest Leicester betting odds for the 2019/20 season – the Foxes are 6/1 to make the top six. Our team of expert writers will provide all the latest FREE Leicester betting information you need.

 

Leicester City FC - 2019/20 Squad

As the 2019/20 season approaches, Leicester have one of the best squads outside the Premier League’s top six, boasting plenty of young talent around veteran striker Jamie Vardy.

Midfielder James Maddison flourished in his first season with the club, while Harry Maguire continues to impress at the heart of defence.

Leicester’s midfield is dominated by Wilfred Ndidi, who has attracted interest from some of Europe’s biggest clubs.

Full-back duo Ben Chilwell and Ricardo Pereira were superb in 2018/19 and Rodgers will have high hopes for them next season. Youri Tielemans played for the Foxes on loan last season and could re-sign with the club in the summer window.

 

Who Were Leicester's Top Scorers Last Season?

1. Jamie Vardy – 18 goals

2. James Maddison – 7 goals

3. Demarai Gray – 4 goals

T-4. Marc Albrighton – 3 goals

T-4. Wes Morgan – 3 goals

T-4. Harry Maguire – 3 goals

T-4. Youri Tielemans – 3 goals

 

Who Are Leicester's Top Scorers Of All-Time?

1. Arthur Chandler – 273 goals

2. Arthur Rowley – 265 goals

3. Ernie Hine – 156 goals

4. Derek Hines – 117 goals

5. Arthur Lochhead – 114 goals

 

Who Owns Leicester City Football Club?

Leicester are owned by King Power International Group and have been since 2010.

Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha was chairman and CEO until his tragic death in October 2018. He has since been succeeded by his son, Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha.

 

What Are Leicester's Biggest Rivalries?

Leicester’s main rivals are fellow Midlands clubs Derby County and Nottingham Forest. Many would consider Forest as the bigger rivalry, however. Coventry City, who are only 24 miles away from the Foxes, are also rivals.

For the 2019/20 Premier League season, Leicester will not be playing any derby matches, and will have to cross their fingers and hope for a cup draw to meet Derby, Forest or Coventry.

 

What Are Leicester's Highest Player Salaries? How Much Is The Club Worth?

According to Spotrac, Leicester spent just shy of £80 million on player salaries last season.

Striker Jamie Vardy was on the highest wage at the club of £140,000 per week, and was closely followed by Danish goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel, who was paid £130,000 per week.

Forbes rank Leicester as the 19^th most valuable football club on the planet at $500 million. Adidas signed a multi-year deal to become Leicester’s kit manufacturers starting in the 2018/19 season, replacing Puma.  

 

Leicester City's Most Memorable Moments & Greatest Achievements

Leicester have had plenty of memorable moments, and a fair few of them came in their stunning 2015/16 Premier League season when they defied the odds to lift their first top-flight league title.

The celebratory scenes at Jamie Vardy’s house party were definitely memorable for the players, as were several victories along the way.

Vardy’s goal against Manchester United that broke the record of Premier League matches with a goal was a highlight of the season and a standout moment in Premier League history.

The Foxes’ great escape in 2014/15 set the table for the success the following year, and Nigel Pearson’s work in that campaign will forever be remembered at the club.

They have won three League Cups, and played in four FA Cup finals, but nothing comes close to the glory of 2015/16 and the Champions League run in 2016/17.

 

Leicester City Fan Profile

Leicester have a massive following in the city and will have earned many more with their success in 2015/16. The fans recently invented a new song in honour of former chairman Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha.

Like every Premier League club, Leicester have several famous fans, but none more so than former player and Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker.

Lineker famously presented Match of the Day in his underwear as a result of a comment he made about ‘if Leicester win the Premier League’.   

 

King Power Stadium, Leicester

Leicester have played their home matches at the King Power Stadium since 2002. The ground was originally called The Walkers Stadium but was renamed when King Power International Group took over the club.

Prior to 2002, Leicester had played at Filbert Street, which had been their home since 1891.

 

Famous Leicester City Legends

Leicester has been home to some big names over the years, including England international Les Ferdinand, Gary McAllister and Peter Shilton.

None, however, come close to World Cup winning goalkeeper Gordon Banks, who made over 350 appearances for the club.

In the late 1990s, Emile Heskey and Muzzy Izzet were fan favourites and key members of the 1999/2000 League Cup winning side. The league title in 2015/16 created a whole new group of club legends from captain Wes Morgan to midfielder N’Golo Kante.

Riyad Mahrez left the club in the summer of 2018, but his importance that season cannot be overstated. And, of course, there’s the unforgettable Jamie Vardy.