Naomi Osaka created history at the 2018 US Open when she became the first-ever Japanese winner of a Grand Slam tournament. She is also one of the youngest-ever Grand Slam victors at the age of twenty and has an extremely bright future in the game.

Savvy tennis betting followers have been predicting big things for Osaka over the past 12 months and after beating her childhood hero Serena Williams 6-2, 6-4 at Flushing Meadows, she has been catapulted into the spotlight.

As a result of her success in New York, she's already been installed in the top five of the betting for the 2019 Australian Open.

It is likely that Osaka will continue her rise up the rankings over the next couple of years. She is one of a number of young Grand Slam winners who have graced the court and made an instant impact.

Today, we take a look at some of the most memorable victors who burst onto the scene whilst displaying plenty of youthful exuberance.

 

Who Is The Youngest Ever Grand Slam Winner?

Martina Hingis

Martina Hingis burst onto the scene in the mid-1990s to become the youngest-ever winner of a Grand Slam in the Open Era. She made her debut on the WTA tour at the age of 14 and it wasn't long before the Swiss player was making a name for herself.

She quickly sent records tumbling and became the youngest-ever world number one and the youngest-ever Grand Slam champion when teaming up with Helena Sukova to clinch the 1996 Wimbledon doubles title.

It wasn't long until a singles title followed and at the age of 16 years and 177 days, Hingis came out on top at the 1997 Australian Open. She'd also previously been victorious in the warm-up event.

She beat Mary Pierce 6-2, 6-2 in Melbourne and continued her successful 12 months by capturing the Wimbledon and US Open titles later that year.

Unfortunately, Hingis' promising career was curtailed by ligament injuries and after wrapping up the Australian Open for the third successive year in 1999, she failed to secure another singles Grand Slam title.

 

Other Notable Youthful Grand Slam Winners

Maria Sharapova

Maria Sharapova was just 17 years and 75 days old when she burst onto the scene and secured an unexpected Wimbledon title in 2004.

The Russian eased through the early rounds of the tournament before shocking Lindsay Davenport in the semi-finals and booking her place in the SW19 final alongside defending champion Serena Williams.

Despite the odds being stacked against the teenager, she somehow managed to defy all expectations and beat the American in straight sets.

She later added an Australian Open title and two French Open successes to her collection, but failed to repeat her heroics on the grass courts.

Sharapova reached the final for the second time in 2011 but was defeated by Petra Kvitova. Sharapova is still competing on the WTA circuit and is 25/1 to be victorious at Wimbledon 2019.

 

Rafael Nadal

Rafael Nadal, known as the 'King of Clay', first burst onto the scene in 2005 during his inaugural appearance at the French Open.

The second slam of the year has been particularly kind to the Spaniard, with 11 triumphs at Roland Garros, including his latest success in 2018.

2018:
? Australian Open - Roger Federer
? French Open - Rafael Nadal
? Wimbledon - Novak Djokovic
? US Open - Novak Djokovic

2019:
? Australian Open -❓
? French Open -❓
? Wimbledon -❓
? US Open -❓

Let us know your 2019 Grand Slam tennis predictions! ? pic.twitter.com/3rIWOrDM8g

— 888sport (@888sport) September 10, 2018

During his first trip to the French capital, he cruised past Mariano Puerta at the age of 19 years and three days to become the first player since Mats Wilander to wrap up a Grand Slam title at the first time of asking.

Nadal rarely puts a foot wrong at this venue and boasts a win percentage of over 95% at the French Open. As a result, he begins each tournament as the favourite and is currently available at EVENS to make it three on the bounce in 2019.

 

Michael Chang

Michael Chang was just 17 years and 110 days old when he secured his one and only Grand Slam title. The American was a runner-up on three different occasions, but he was never able to replicate his early-career success.

His victory over Stefan Edberg helped him become the youngest-ever male player to win a Grand Slam. The Roland Garros showpiece was a thriller, with the teenager eventually emerging as the 6-7, 7-5, 7-6, 5-7, 6-4 winner after it went the full distance.

He became the first American to prevail at the tournament since 1955 and just four months later, he managed to break into the top five.

 

Monica Seles

Monica Seles is regarded as one of the most successful female tennis players of all time, with her first Grand Slam win coming at the tender age of 16 in the 1990 French Open.

The left-hander beat Steffi Graf at Roland Garros and their fierce and well-documented rivalry continued throughout the 1990s.

Following her successful debut in France, the Yugoslavia-born player went on to secure seven of the next nine Grand Slam titles, but her upward curve was halted by an on-court incident which saw her stabbed in the back.

Following a full recovery, she returned to the tour but wasn't able to recapture her earlier form.

 

Who Are The Oldest Grand Slam Winners?

Ken Rosewall

Ken Rosewall is generally considered to be one of the greatest tennis players of all time, and the stylish back-hander broke many records during his illustrious career.

The Australian became the oldest player to clinch a Grand Slam title in 1972 when securing the Australian Open for the fourth time.

Admittedly, it was a depleted field with many big-hitters having been forced to withdraw from the tournament, but Rosewall was able to capitalise, a whole 19 years after wrapping up his first title down under.

At the age of 37, it was unsurprisingly Rosewall's last Grand Slam success, although he did reach both the Wimbledon and US Open finals 12 months later.

 

Roger Federer

Roger Federer is one of the most iconic tennis players of the modern era and despite his advancing years, he is still able to glide around the court with plenty of grace and style.

At the age of 36, the Swiss maestro was able to secure the Australian Open title for the sixth time. It was his second successive triumph in Melbourne, ending any rumours of an imminent retirement from the game.

Since turning 35 in 2016, Federer has clinched three Grand Slam titles, bringing his total to 20.

Roger Federer has just won his 98th (NINETY-EIGHTH) singles career title. ?

If Federer wins in Halle this coming week, he will have the chance to win a 100th tour title at #Wimbledon. ?

Written in the stars? pic.twitter.com/tYqE4jL5rb

— 888sport (@888sport) June 17, 2018

He has already been priced up as third-favourite for the 2019 Australian Open and will break Ken Rosewall's long-standing record if he is able to land his 21st Grand Slam next year.

Tennis can be an unpredictable sport at times and although the likes of Serena Williams, Novak Djokovic and the aforementioned Roger Federer have dominated the game for the last couple of decades, it is still capable of throwing up a few surprises.

Young players rarely have anything to lose when they enter a Grand Slam and that lack of pressure and expectation can often help propel them to success.

Naomi Osaka is far from the youngest-ever Grand Slam winner but she is continuing the long-standing trend of outsiders springing a surprise in the final.

The US Open is the tournament most likely to throw up an unexpected result and we can expect plenty more up-and-coming teenagers to make an immediate impact and announce themselves on the biggest stage.

 

Visit 888 Sport, where you'll find the latest bets and markets for the French open

 

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

The controversial UEFA Nations League is back. UEFA’s attempt to make international breaks vaguely interesting has worked so far.

The best players and best teams are trying more than they would in friendlies and that’s good to see. Some heavyweights face-off over the next few days. Below are a few thoughts and tips on the best matches…

 

BELGIUM vs SWITZERLAND

Switzerland’s negotiation of the FIFA ranking system has earned them a favourable group.

Facing Belgium is far from ideal, but Switzerland already have three points and six goals on the board after thrashing Iceland in the last international break.

Their star man, Xherdan Shaqiri, is well rested too, having played a supporting role for Liverpool during the early stages of the season.

Belgium are 4/1 to win the whole competition. Kevin De Bruyne is still out with injury, but Roberto Martinez has plenty of talent at his disposal.

Eden Hazard is playing as well as anyone in the world right now and could blow the Swiss away.  Goals are to be expected with Belgium involved. The hosts should win this one comfortably, but it’ll be entertaining.

TIP: Over 2.5 goals @ 8/13

PREDICTED SCORE: Belgium 3-1 Switzerland (Priced at 10/1 with 888sport)

 

Croatia vs ENGLAND

This rematch of the World Cup semi-final is pivotal. Both teams lost to Spain in the opening round of matches.

England, however, gave a better account of themselves, and were perhaps unfortunate to lose 2-1, while Croatia were thrashed 6-0.

Gareth Southgate has an inexperienced squad at his disposal for this international break and the England boss may use this match to take a look at some different players.

Is anyone else excited to see a front three of Sancho, Sterling and Kane against Croatia on Friday night? ?

Make us dream again, Gareth. ?#ThreeLions pic.twitter.com/GatvH0pX6a

— 888sport (@888sport) October 8, 2018

The Three Lions were outplayed by the Croatians in Russia, but England are a team in the ascendency and Croatia are, potentially, on the decline.

England to avoid defeat is a decent price given the relative performances of the two teams since the World Cup.

TIP: England to win or draw @ 13/25

PREDICTED SCORE: Croatia 1-2 England (Priced at 10/1 with 888sport)

 

Netherlands vs GERMANY

The Netherlands are in a period of transition. Having missed the World Cup, they were handed a group with Germany and France.

Defeat to the world champions followed, but their chances are better against a Germany side that struggled horribly in Russia.

Germany played out a 0-0 draw with France to start their Nations League campaign. Jogi Loew’s side are the favourites in this one and have the midfield – led by Toni Kroos – to control the match.

Loew has options aplenty in the front line. Germany should have the firepower to win this one.

The visitors have the better players and that should show here. There are some good players in the Netherlands squad, but they’ve got a long way to go to compete with the best.

TIP: Germany to win @ 11/10

PREDICTED SCORE: Netherlands 0-2 Germany (Priced at 21/2 with 888sport)

 

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND vs DENMARK

Ireland had a terrible start to their Nations League campaign with a 4-1 defeat to Wales.

Martin O’Neill’s side look the weakest team in their group and are in desperate need of a result against Denmark this weekend.

Crucially for Ireland, though, Christian Eriksen is set to sit out for the Danes.

14 goals in his last 18 international appearances.

Christian Eriksen is a beast when he puts on that Denmark shirt.#DENWAL pic.twitter.com/QqAdyBpXLE

— 888sport (@888sport) September 9, 2018

Eriksen would have been by far the best player on the pitch and is the heart of this Denmark side.

The visitors will still be hard to beat but can be stopped if O’Neill’s side are disciplined defensively.

Ireland will look to keep this one tight. Denmark will not be gutted with a draw, having taken three points against Wales in their first match. Under 2.5 is a short price, but it is the best way to go.

TIP: Under 2.5 goals @ 1/2

PREDICTED SCORE: Ireland 1-1 Denmark (Priced at 5/1 with 888sport)

 

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

As of September 2018, 108 FIFA-affiliated nations have been represented in the league; these are the players from nations perhaps not so commonly associated with producing top-tier footballing talent.

Angola

Having played in the Angolan leagues since 1999, Manucho’s showing at Petro Atletico in 2006 and 2007 was enough to pique the interest of Manchester United. He impressed the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson during a three-week trial and was given a contract.

After that, Manucho played once for United, collecting an assist, before being loaned out to Hull City in the same season. The Angolan scored twice in 13 games but never made another appearance in the Premier League.

 

Barbados

Three Premier League players have represented Barbados at an international level, but only one is from the island nation itself. Gregory Goodridge is best known for his blistering pace, which made quite the impression through his seven games for QPR.

His only goal for the club was from a corner kick; Goodridge fired the ball from the flag, and it ricocheted into the back of the net.

 

Bermuda

Three Bermudan stars have made it to the Premier League in the form of Kyle Lightbourne, Shaun Goater, and Nakhi Wells.

All three are from Hamilton, all three are strikers, but only Goater could make the net bulge by scoring 13 league goals for Manchester City, who are the 13/20 favourites to win the Premier League.

 

Faroe Islands

Quite the decorated goalie in his homeland, Gunnar Nielsen’s trip to the Premier League saw him play 17 minutes for Manchester City after Shay Given picked up an injury. He managed to hold onto a 0-0 draw with Arsenal.

 

The Gambia

Born in Banjul, Modou Barrow was signed by Swansea for £1.7 million in 2014 from Swedish club Superettan following a season of 10 goals and eight assists in 19 games.

In the Premier League, however, the now 25-year-old could only ripple the net once through 51 games. Now featuring for Reading, his team are at 6/1 to finish in the Championship top 12.

 

Liberia

Hailing from Liberia, Alex Nimely, George Weah, and Christopher Wreh have managed to make it onto a Premier League pitch.

Nimely played seven minutes against Burnley and went on loan to Middlesbrough and Coventry, Weah clocked 18 appearances and four goals over two seasons at Chelsea and Manchester City, and Wreh scored three goals in 28 league games for Arsenal.

George Weah hung up his boots in 2003 and is now the President of Liberia.

 

Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone has delivered two players to Watford and one to Norwich City over the last 12 years. Al Bangura and Albert Jarrett signed for the Hornets in 2006/07.

Bangura managed to play 16 games while Jarrett played once before being loaned out twice in the same season to League Two. Kei Kamara, on the other hand, was loaned from MLS side Sporting Kansas City at the winter deadline to try and boost Norwich City’s scoring.

After making a four-minute cameo against Fulham, he was subbed on against Everton and scored a towering header to tie up the scoreline at 1-1. The Canaries won 2-1 and finished 11th in the table.

 

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

Every year, the UEFA Champions League assembles the best team from around Europe which, more often than not, boasts the very best footballers from all over the world.

This year is no different, with the star-studded Manchester City team as the 17/4 favourites to win the Champions League, ahead of even the almighty Real Madrid at 8/1.

So, let’s recap some of the greatest players ever to grace the legendary competition. To make the cut, the quota for this Champions League All-Time XI is that the player has to have won the competition.

So, unfortunately, the likes of Fabio Cannavaro, Ruud van Nistelrooy, Gianluigi Buffon, and Ronaldo didn’t make the cut.

Edwin Van Der Sar

Edwin van der Sar may not have racked up as many appearances as Real Madrid’s go-to goalie Iker Casillas, but his incredible stat lines and heroics in the competition have held him as one of its greatest.

At 23 years old, he guided Ajax to victory in 1994/95 before moving to Juventus, Fulham, and then Manchester United to win the Red Devils the Champions League in a penalty shootout against Chelsea.

Roberto Carlos

Roberto Carlos is quite possibly the most gifted attacking full-back of all-time.

Now seen as a pioneer of the wing-back role, Carlos is remembered for his attacking mentality and thunderous free kicks.

Sergio Ramos

Still the Real Madrid captain to this day, Sergio Ramos will be looking to claim his fifth Champions League title this year.

But, given odds of 8/1 to win it for the fourth year running, Ramos will need to rally his team like never before. Ramos has served as a right-back and centre-back for Los Blancos, holding his place despite the huge-money signings.

Paolo Maldini

Many herald Paolo Maldini as the greatest defender in the history of the competition. The illustrious centre-back led his team to eight Champions League finals.

Philipp Lahm

Bayern Munich’s talisman has made a name for himself as the ultimate versatile player.

He’s featured at left-back, right-back, and the middle of the park, being instrumental to making Bayern Munich a consistent threat in the Champions League.

Clarence Seedorf

With four Champions League wins across three different clubs, there’s no doubt that Clarence Seedorf had a knack of performing on one of the biggest stages of football.

The Dutch central midfielder controlled games with ease while always posing a threat with the ball at his feet.

Zinedine Zidane

Quite surprisingly, Zinedine Zidane only has one Champions League win to his name; but that doesn’t mean that he didn’t light up the competition every time he stepped onto the pitch.

He added to his tally as Real Madrid’s manager most recently by winning three on the trot.

Lionel Messi

One of two footballing icons of the current generation of players, Lionel Messi has etched his name in stone in Europe’s premier competition.

He’s been instrumental in some of the best teams ever put on the pitch while scoring heaps of goals.

Cristiano Ronaldo

As the other player leading this generation of footballers, Cristiano Ronaldo stands as the highest-scoring player in the competition despite spending the first six years of his career with Manchester United and then joining the eternally dominant Real Madrid.

He’ll now look to claim his sixth title with Juventus, but he’s given odds of 7/1 to do so.

Francisco Gento

Known better as ‘Paco’ Gento, the Spanish right winger was known for his incredible speed and skill on the ball.

Playing for Real Madrid, Gento has won more Champions League titles than any other player at six, scoring plenty of goals while doing so.

Raul

Raul is one of Real Madrid’s most legendary players.

In 741 appearances, he scored 324 goals, while also tallying 103 games for Spain with 44 goals. He led his boyhood club to three Champions League victories.

---

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

Domestic tables across Europe are starting to take shape – we are now almost two months into the 2018/19 campaign.

Elite football leagues across the continent, mainly Germany, Spain, Italy and France, are heating up and there are lots of tasty European fixtures to get stuck into.

As is the norm these days, I’m back with my top tips on the latest round of fixtures across the continent.

La Liga giants Barcelona, fresh from defeating Tottenham Hotspur at Wembley Stadium earlier this week, top our 12/1 accumulator. Without further ado, let’s get down to the selections…

SATURDAY

BORUSSIA DORTMUND vs Augsburg

Dortmund have been sublime in the early stages of the new Bundesliga season, scoring 19 goals in six league games.

The hosts are currently unbeaten and plenty of punters will fancy the 4/9 on offer for Lucien Favre’s side to prevail.

New kid on the block Jadon Sancho could will be looking to continue his fine run of form in a Dortmund shirt.

His performances so far in 2018/19 have already earned the 18-year-old a call-up to the England squad earlier this week - he is a special talent.

Jadon Sancho since signing for Borussia Dortmund:

Games played: 15
Goals scored: 1
Assists: 7

A goal contribution every 100 minutes.

Remember: he is still only 18 years old. pic.twitter.com/J7L7lQgsfK

— 888sport (@888sport) September 14, 2018

Meanwhile, Augsburg have won just one of their last five league games; a run that will be of some concern to their supporters.

A 4-1 win at home to Freiburg in their last outing will give the visitors a much-needed boost ahead of this trip.

Dortmund is always a daunting away day and the hosts could enjoy a comfortable afternoon providing their Europa League excursions don’t take their toll.

This has ‘routine home win’ written all over it.

TIP: Dortmund to win @ 4/9

PREDICTED SCORE: Dortmund 2-0 Augsburg (Priced at 7/1 with 888sport)

 

SUNDAY

LAZIO vs FIORENTINA

Reading too much into Lazio’s current record would be foolish to say the least.

Three losses against Juventus, Roma and Napoli have hindered their chances of a fast start to the season but Lazio have shown their quality against “lesser” sides in recent months.

Four of Lazio’s clashes have been settled by the odd goal and another close affair looks likely here.

13/20 for both teams to score could be the best bet ahead of this clash.

Fiorentina are flying high in the top four and plenty of punters will be backing the visitors to finish in the European places this season.

After their solid start to the season, it is difficult to oppose Stefano Pioli’s side at this moment in time.

The visitors are priced out at 16/5 to claim three points in this contest but Lazio are a tough nut to crack.

Whatever happens in terms of the result, this should be one of the best games to watch in Italy this weekend.

TIP: Both teams to score @ 13/20

PREDICTED SCORE: Lazio 1-1 Fiorentina (Priced at 6/1 with 888sport)

 

MARSEILLE vs Caen

Marseille haven’t lost a league game on home soil since March – some achievement.

The Europa League has been something of a hindrance for the French outfit in recent weeks but I fancy the hosts to maintain their excellent record at Stade Velodrome.

Goals and Marseille tend to go hand in hand. Rudi Garcia’s side have scored 19 goals whilst conceding 16 in just eight Ligue 1 matches; an average of over four goals per game.

9/4 for a home with both teams to score might be worth a wager with that in mind.

27th minute - Marseille 0-1 Strasbourg

44th minute - Marseille 2-1 Strasbourg

52nd minute - Jordan Amavi sent off

89th minute - Marseille 2-2 Strasbourg

91st minute - Marseille 3-2 Strasbourg

What. A. Match. pic.twitter.com/XHwT514Nmn

— 888sport (@888sport) September 26, 2018

Caen have picked up four points from their four away fixtures so far this season; although those points all came against lower half opposition.

The visitors did manage to secure an impressive draw against third-placed Montpellier last month though.

The hosts cannot afford to take Caen lightly but Garcia’s men will be confident of notching a win here.

Marseille have won the last four meetings between these two sides…

TIP: Marseille to win and both teams to score @ 9/4

PREDICTED SCORE: Marseille 3-1 Caen (Priced at 10/1 with 888sport)

 

Valencia vs BARCELONA

Valencia gave a decent account of themselves against Manchester United without really needing to batten down the hatches.

The La Liga outfit were comfortable in possession and deserved their point and the clean sheet.

Keeping Barcelona at bay is a completely different proposition, however.

The hosts are likely to adopt a slightly different approach when they welcome the defending La Liga champions on Sunday evening – this could turn into a game of attack vs defence.

Barcelona got back to winning ways against Tottenham Hotspur in midweek and that result should reinstall some belief at Camp Nou.

The Spanish giants had failed to win in any of their previous three fixtures prior to that Champions League encounter.

Lionel Messi was magisterial against Spurs and he can inspire Barcelona to another crucial victory here.

Take the 8/13 for an away win; that price represents solid value for a team of their calibre.

TIP: Barcelona to win @ 8/13

PREDICTED SCORE: Valencia 1-3 Barcelona (Priced at 10/1 with 888sport)

 

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

Seven matches have been played in the Premier League season. The table is starting to look a lot like it could do come May. Manchester City are at the top, and teams that were expected to struggle, are struggling. It all looks pretty normal.

Form is beginning to come relevant. Sample sizes are growing and we’ve got a decent idea of what each team will be this season.  Below are a few thoughts on four of this weekend’s Saturday 3pm kick-offs.

BURNLEY vs Huddersfield Town

Burnley have corrected their slow start with back-to-back victories.

Sean Dyche’s side saw off Cardiff away from home last weekend to pull them up to mid-table and are strong favourites to beat a struggling Huddersfield side this weekend.

The Terriers are bottom of the table and have lost three straight. David Wagner’s side were always in for a difficult campaign, but this has been a terrible start.

Huddersfield have scored just three goals so far this term. Wagner did wonders with a sub-par squad last season, it’s a big ask to do that two campaigns in a row.

Burnley are a difficult team to beat at home. Dyche’s side are good value to build on their good form this weekend.

TIP: Burnley to win @ 11/10

PREDICTED SCORE: Burnley 2-0 Huddersfield (Priced at 8/1 with 888sport)

 

Crystal Palace vs WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS

Crystal Palace were outplayed by Bournemouth last Monday. The dependence on Wilfried Zaha is a growing problem for the Eagles, with the Ivory Coast international frequently kicked around the pitch.

Stop Zaha, and you stop Palace. A few yellow cards are a small price to pay.

Watford's tactics against Wilfried Zaha.

Is there a place for this in football? pic.twitter.com/Mc9TnfEpD4

— 888sport (@888sport) September 28, 2018

Meanwhile, Wolves are just three points outside the top four after a great start to the campaign.

Southampton made them work for victory last weekend, but last season’s Championship winners look a well-balanced team. The attack is creating chances and the defence is as solid as any in the league.

Palace have disappointed at home so far this season. The Eagles may struggle to stop this Wolves side, who could easily finish in the top eight.

TIP: Wolves to win or draw @ 12/25

PREDICTED SCORE: Palace 1-2 Wolves (Priced at 9/1 with 888sport)

 

LEICESTER CITY vs Everton

These two were expected to be wedged in mid-table this season. Separated by just three points, they are already in position.

Claude Puel’s side have mixed the very good with the very bad, as shown by winning two of their last four and losing the other two.

Marco Silva’s Everton have been similar. The Toffees got just their second win of the season last time out but have not always got the result their performances warranted.

Silva is very reliant on Richarlison in the final third. The Brazilian is 6/1 to open the scoring.

Home advantage just tips this one in the Foxes’ favour. Everton have performed well on the road so far this season, but Leicester to avoid defeat is the safest bet.

TIP: Leicester to win or draw @ 4/11

PREDICTED SCORE: Leicester 2-1 Everton (Priced at 15/2 with 888sport)

 

TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR vs CARDIFF CITY

Tottenham’s difficulties in September have quickly been forgotten thanks to back-to-back league wins.

Harry Kane is looking something like his usual self and Spurs are sitting in the top four, just four points off the top of the Premier League. For all the furore around the stadium, this has been a solid start to the season.

Eat. Sleep. Score. Repeat. ⚽️

Just another weekend in the life of Harry Kane.#THFC pic.twitter.com/KjFYVf507i

— 888sport (@888sport) September 29, 2018

Cardiff have lost four in a row. Defeat to Burnley at home last weekend was a nightmare for Neil Warnock, who is one of the favourites to be the first Premier League manager sacked.

Without a win yet this season, the Welsh club could easily be cut adrift in the next few weeks. Avoiding humiliation is the main objective for this match.

Anything other than a comfortable Spurs win would be a big shock. Goals are the way to go.

TIP: Over 2.5 goals @ 11/25

PREDICTED SCORE: Tottenham 3-0 Cardiff (Priced at 13/2 with 888sport)

 

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

The Prix De L'Arc De Triomphe is run over a distance of 1 mile and 4 furlongs at Longchamp in Paris and it takes place this Sunday.

The race is certainly the highest quality Group 1 middle distance event on the European racing calendar and is arguably the best race of this type in the world.

Some true greats have won the race over the past twenty years including Montjeu, Sinndar, Dalakhani, Zarkava, the renowned Sea The Stars and the wonderful filly- Trêve.

The John Gosden-trained Enable aims to defend her crown from Chantilly last year. If she were to do so she would be the only horse in history to win the Arc at two different courses and she would also give Frankie Dettori his sixth Arc victory.

Here is your runner-by-runner guide to the contenders:

Defoe

The son of Dalakhani ran well in defeat on his first start since May when finding only Best Solution too strong in a Group One at Baden Baden at the beginning of September.

Roger Varian will be buoyed by the prospects of some rain on Sunday as the four-year-old is a mile-and-a-half horse that likes a bit of juice in the ground.

 

Salouen

After pushing Cracksman close in the Coronation Cup at Epsom, Sylvester Kirk has not been shy in running his four-year-old in more Group One races.

He went on to finish third to Waldgeist in the Grand Prix De-Saint Cloud, came fourth in a hotly contested King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Stakes, then finished third in the Grand Prix De Deauville.

He could easily steal a place at big odds.

 

Capri

The 2017 St Leger hero finished down the field in the Arc last year and has only run twice this term, winning the Alleged Stakes in April and finishing out of the frame in the Prix Foy.

The grey Galileo colt does not look like one of the most obvious picks.

 

Way To Paris

An Italian-trained raider who deserves to take his chance here given he has not been far behind Waldgeist on three occasions this year, most recently in the Prix Foy.

His currents odds totally do him a disservice.

 

Waldgeist

The André Fabre-trained colt looks the best chance the French have got of keeping the trophy on home soil.

The Grand Prix de Saint-Cloud winner had the perfect prep when winning the Prix Foy in impressive fashion at Longchamp last month. That was his fourth win on the spin and he must go into Sunday with a leading chance.

 

Cloth Of Stars

He ran on through the field for second place behind Enable last year but things have not been going quite to plan this season.

He did however show far more promise in his third in the Prix Foy last time and conditions could be right up his street on Sunday.

Could he be the forgotten Fabre horse?

 

Talismanic

One of a trio of Fabre-trained runners and probably another to take a cautionary glance at.

He finished second to Waldgeist in the Prix Foy and is the type who likes the going rattling fast so you will need to watch the weather forecast closer to the off to assess his chances.

 

Tiberian

Last year’s Melbourne Cup seventh finished fifth in his last run in the Grand Prix de Deauville and looks to have a monumental task on his hooves here. Look elsewhere.

 

Clincher

The Japanese love to have a runner or two in the Arc and have arrived in Paris with many a chance in previous years but this year their offering is pretty underwhelming.

Clincher was beaten eight lengths in the Prix Foy and will need to produce something very special to reverse that kind of a beating.

 

Cracksman

His participation at the weekend is still up in the air with some rain now forecast by some agencies for Paris on Saturday evening and Sunday morning.

The four-year-old’s best performances have all been on rain-softened ground and he is undefeated in three starts on soft ground, including his demolition of the field in the Champion Stakes last October.

If the rain comes to his rescue and he runs on Sunday afternoon then the 14/1 quoted about him won’t last very long.

 

Enable

Enable was a smart winner of last year’s Arc at Chantilly but she been plagued with issues with her knees since.

Her return to action this season was belated but she readily beat the high-class Crystal Ocean in the September Stakes at Kempton.

The million pound question is will she bounce? It is certainly a conundrum for punters who like taking a short price.

 

Neufbosc

Hails from a trainer in form and could be somewhat of a dark horse.

He was just worn down by Kew Gardens in the Grand Prix De Paris and ran creditably in the Prix Niel.

 

Patascoy

Finished second in the Prix Guillaume d’Ornano Haras du Logis Saint Germain to Study Of Man but really does not look up to troubling the big boys and girls in this.

 

Kew Gardens

This year’s St Leger winner is more than worthy of taking his place in this field. The problem is however that Leger winners tend to run like duds in the Arc as Doncaster appears to leave its mark on them.

The O’Brien runner has a very difficult trend to buck.

 

Study Of Man

Winner of the French Derby but has suffered heavy defeats and Deauville and in the Irish Champion Stakes.

The three-year-old appears to be regressing at the moment and is hard to fancy.

 

Louis D'Or

Ran third at massive odds in the French Derby but appeared not to stay in the Prix Niel. He is almost impossible to make a case for.

 

Hunting Horn

Ran well behind Brundtland in the Prix Niel but looks to be playing a supporting role here in the Aidan O’Brien squad.

 

Nelson

Chief pacemaker for Ballydoyle this season and there will be no change here.

 

Magical

Aidan O'Brien has kept the filly Magical entered here forsaking the alternative option of running in the Prix de L'Opera for which she had a much better chance.

It remains to be seen whether she will stay this distance.

 

Sea Of Class

The Irish and Yorkshire Oaks heroine was added to the field at the last supplementation stage on Wednesday at a cost of 120,000 euros.

The daughter of 2009 Arc winner Sea The Stars is second-favourite at around 7/2 behind Enable, the 11/10 market leader, in the ante-post betting.

 

CONCLUSION

With a chance that the favourite Enable might just bounce and some questions over what exactly Sea Of Class has beaten this season, it may be worth approaching the race from a completely different angle and opposing the front two in the market.

Andre Fabre has trained the Arc seven times and is well overdue another win. Waldgeist looks a really useful sort and his Godolphin-owned pair will also be at peak fitness on Sunday.

Suggestion: Waldgeist (win) Talismanic and Cloth Of Stars (e/w).

 

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

It’s a rare occurrence that there’s no Premier League match on a Saturday lunchtime.

This is one such weekend (partly because of European action) so we have paired up the Friday night game with the Saturday evening match for our weekly televised double.

Brighton & Hove Albion vs WEST HAM UNITED

It has been a difficult start to the season for Brighton, who have won just once in seven league matches.

Chris Hughton’s side have had a tough run of fixtures, and the performances have been okay, but they are under a bit of pressure now. Home form was so key for Brighton last season, and it will be again this time around.

West Ham are flying high. It’s not often we’ve been able to say that in recent seasons. Two victories in their last three sandwiched a draw at home to Chelsea to pull Manuel Pellegrini’s side away from a dire start to the season.

The former Manchester City manager has struck a balance with his team that was lacking in the first few matches.

The front three has been the key for the Hammers. Marko Arnautovic was at his best against Manchester United weekend, while Felipe Anderson and Andriy Yarmolenko are showing their class.

Arnautovic is the focal point, and the Austrian, despite his accomplices playing well, is the man to stop. He’s 2/1 to score anytime.

Marko Arnautovic has either scored or assisted 11 of West Ham's last 15 league goals ⚽

Class act ?? pic.twitter.com/L9pMkhrYsU

— 888sport (@888sport) September 16, 2018

Brighton’s are a hard side to beat at the Amex. Hughton’s team are resilient defensively and have attacking threat through the intelligent movement of Glenn Murray.

West Ham are one of the league’s form teams, though, and are worth backing to get a result.

TIP: West Ham to win or draw @ 13/25

PREDICTED SCORE: Brighton 1-1 West Ham (Priced at 5/1 with 888sport)

 

MANCHESTER UNITED vs NEWCASTLE UNITED

Jose Mourinho and Rafa Benitez meet at Old Trafford on Saturday evening, and both are in desperate need of a result.

Mourinho’s side have not won in four matches, while Newcastle remain in the bottom three after a poor performance and defeat at home to Leicester last weekend.

Manchester United’s form carried over into the Champions League. Another drab performance at home to Valencia was met with boos from the home crowd.

Former players are being increasingly vocal in the media. It’s a matter of when, not if, Mourinho loses his job. Failure to win here might be the final straw for the club hierarchy.

Benitez did well to guide Newcastle to safety last season. A difficult fixture list and indifferent summer window, though, have left the Magpies in trouble already.

The Spaniard is short of quality attacking options, which has seen Newcastle score just four goals in seven league matches. Even against a poor defence, the evens price on the visitors to fail to score is solid.

Newcastle, unlike Mourinho’s men, look like a team with a plan. Execution is more of an issue, and Benitez is bound by a distinct lack of quality.

This is what happens when you don't spend any money, Mr Ashley.#NUFC pic.twitter.com/PmOqwPiCwo

— 888sport (@888sport) September 29, 2018

Manchester United, however, are playing like a team without direction, much like a team who do not discuss how they will attack, like they are just sent out there and told to win.

It is dysfunctional, and the players are unhappy. The issues are not getting resolved. It’s hard to see how they get a positive result.

This match might just be a case of who is least bad on the day. Plenty will be made of the rivalry in the dugout, but this is really about two teams in a mess.

It is likely, similar to many of Mourinho and Benitez’s previous encounters, to be a turgid affair. There’s so much on the line, this will be tense, even if it’s not a thriller.

TIP: Under 2.5 goals @ 23/25

PREDICTED SCORE: Man United 1-1 Newcastle (Priced at 7/1 with 888sport)

 

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

The Premier League season is seven matches old. Narratives have been built – some have already crumbled – and teams are getting to that point in the campaign where they re-evaluate their preseason goals.

Some might be considering a title push, others are preparing for 31 more matches battling for their Premier League lives.  This weekend was not littered with drama like some, but it taught us plenty...

Mourinho Meltdown Continues

West Ham made light work of Manchester United on Saturday lunchtime. After a week including humiliation to Derby and a public spat between Paul Pogba and Jose Mourinho, such a result was hardly surprising.

Mourinho’s post-match comments were as curious as ever. Anthony Martial’s lack of impact defensively was questioned and the Portuguese tried to maintain his ‘everything is fine, nothing to see here’ approach.

2013/14 under Moyes: 7 games, 10 points
2018/19 under Mourinho: 7 games, 10 points

You can see where this is going. pic.twitter.com/uqGni98yeW

— 888sport (@888sport) October 1, 2018

With Valencia in midweek, it feels like Mourinho is only a poor result or two away from the sack.

He might survive a little longer, of course, but Manchester United are best off cutting their losses and moving on to whatever bizarre appointment they make next.

 

Salah Isn't The Same

Mohamed Salah was a sensation last term. He had a reasonable claim at World Player of the Year honours. This season, though, everything is different.

He is missing chances and his decision-making is suspect, as we saw on a couple of occasions in the first half at Stamford Bridge.

Crucially, he is still getting the chances. His goal scoring record will improve from here, but we are not going to see the ludicrous overachievement of last season. The 2017/18 tally was a career year rather than a breakout.

Liverpool are a better side than they were last season. Seeing Salah substituted might not be such a shock this season, particularly if Daniel Sturridge and Xherdan Shaqiri continue to perform.

 

Cheap Ashley Condemns Newcastle (Again)

There was talk this week that former Manchester United and Chelsea chief executive, Peter Kenyon, is leading a takeover bid of Newcastle United.

The news came at a fitting time, as the Magpies lost 2-0 at home to Leicester to leave them on just two points from seven matches. Rafa Benitez's side were limp in defeat. They offered very little going forward, and the crowd did not react well to Benitez’s substitutions.

Newcastle in 2018/19:

1-2 vs Tottenham ❌
1-2 vs Chelsea ❌
1-2 vs Arsenal ❌
0-2(?) vs Leicester ❌

For the first time EVER, it looks like #NUFC are going to lose their first four home games of the season. pic.twitter.com/WoGCfm9vXN

— 888sport (@888sport) September 29, 2018

Newcastle might have had a difficult fixture list so far, but that does not change their situation. The north east club needs points and they need them fast.

Benitez’s options, though, are very limited. Ashley’s refusal to back his manager in the market has cost the club in the past. It’s quite possible it costs them again.

 

Ambitious Fulham Are Some Way From The Finished Article

Fulham’s summer transfer business was impressive. From Jean Seri to Alfie Mawson, they added quality and did it in a balanced manner.

A top half finish is not out of the question, but they have five points from seven matches and were thumped 3-0 this weekend. Despite additions, Fulham have the joint-worst defence in the league on goals conceded and non-penalty expected goals against.

Unless their attack starts to produce at Liverpool levels, the back line is going to force them into a relegation scrap. It is far from a crisis at Craven Cottage. There’s more than enough time to turn things around, but this is the sort of slow start that can descend into chaos.

Fulham have to find a blend between their individual quality and defensive organisation if they are to have the sort of comfortable campaign it looked like they would have.

 

Wolves ARE The Real Deal

Okay, beating a poor Southampton side at home wasn’t the first sign of this. Wolves are a good football team. They are three points off the Champions League places at the moment.

While that may not remain the case for long, the 10-point cushion to the bottom three is hugely significant for any promoted side.

Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2018/19:

Played - 7
Won - 3
Drawn - 3
Lost - 1

Position - 8th

Not a bad start to life back in the Premier League. ?#WWFC pic.twitter.com/34QIkaSMuP

— 888sport (@888sport) October 1, 2018

This is no fluke either. The west Midlands club cruised to promotion last term and added more international quality footballers in the summer. Their results have hardly been smash-and-grab, they are – by any metric – performing like a top eight side.

Wolves are looking like a genuine best of the rest contender. That would be an astonishing achievement and might just set them up for a European spot next season.

The second round of Champions League group stage fixtures are here – and football fans across Europe will be settling down for a festival of football on Wednesday evening.

It all kicks off with two early games before six later fixtures; giving viewers the chance to watch more of Europe’s elite club competition. That can’t be a bad thing, can it?

Tuesday’s top tips can be found here but I am going to focus on Wednesday’s action in this piece.

Tottenham Hotspur are involved in what is arguably THE clash of the gameweek and English football fans will be hoping for an exciting night of football. Here are my thoughts and tips on the latest round of games.

 

ATLETICO MADRID vs Club Brugge

It has taken Atletico a while to get going in 2018/19 but Diego Simeone’s men head into this clash after avoiding defeat in five successive matches.

Atletico claimed a well-earned point away at city rivals Real Madrid on Saturday night and it would take a brave man to back against the hosts here. 49/50 for Atletico to win to nil is worth backing considering their defensive prowess.

Club Brugge had just 35% of the ball against Borussia Dortmund in their previous European encounter but the Belgian side gave a decent account of themselves in that 1-0 defeat.

The visitors will work hard but that might not be enough to secure a positive result here. It could get ugly for Club Brugge if Atletico make an early breakthrough.

TIP: Atletico Madrid to win to nil @ 49/50

PREDICTED SCORE: Atletico 2-0 Club Brugge (Priced at 5/1 with 888sport)

 

BORUSSIA DORTMUND vs AS Monaco

Dortmund are back to their brilliant best – Monaco will be wary of an absolute thrashing on Wednesday night. You won’t find many punters backing against the hosts in this one…

The German giants, currently top of the Bundesliga table, have scored 19 goals in six league games in 2018/19 and it wouldn’t be a huge surprise to see Dortmund run riot. 6/5 for over 2.5 home goals is worth considering.

Jadon Sancho has contributed to a league-leading six Bundesliga goals this season. 

He is just 18 years old. ? pic.twitter.com/1JVha1S3xG

— 888sport (@888sport) September 30, 2018

On the other hand, Monaco have struggled to get going this season. The French outfit are in the Ligue 1 relegation zone after winning just one of their opening eight fixtures.

Monaco fell short on home soil against Atletico in their Group A opener and another difficult clash awaits. 7/4 for a home win with both teams scoring looks a decent bet.

TIP: Dortmund to win and both teams to score (Priced at 7/4 with 888sport)

PREDICTED SCORE: Dortmund 3-1 Monaco (Priced at 9/1 with 888sport)

 

Napoli vs LIVERPOOL

Napoli were the better side for most of the first half against Juventus but beating the Old Lady in Turin was always going to be a tough ask.

However, the hosts will be looking to bounce back after that defeat at the weekend and this could be one of the matches of the week. Both teams to score is backable at 1/2 – punters will be expecting an exciting contest.

Jurgen Klopp’s side left it late against Chelsea to preserve their unbeaten start to the season – Daniel Sturridge scoring with a sensational effort from outside the box with just minutes remaining.

Another stern test awaits the Reds here; Napoli are no slouches and Carlo Ancelotti’s men are solid on home soil. However, the 8/25 for Liverpool to avoid defeat once again is the way to go.

TIP: Liverpool to win OR draw @ 8/25

PREDICTED SCORE: Napoli 1-2 Liverpool (Priced at 7/1 with 888sport)

 

TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR vs FC BARCELONA

It is a case of one step forward, two steps backward for Tottenham right now. Mauricio Pochettino’s men were comfortable against Huddersfield Town last time out and Spurs fans will be hoping for a similar performance here.

Tottenham can profit if they play Barcelona at their own game. This Barca defence is not what it once was and the 4/9 for both teams to score looks exceptional value.

Eat. Sleep. Score. Repeat. ⚽️ 

Just another weekend in the life of Harry Kane.#THFC pic.twitter.com/KjFYVf507i

— 888sport (@888sport) September 29, 2018

Barcelona have had troubles of their own in recent weeks and Ernesto Valverde is a man under pressure. The Spanish champions are winless in their last three competitive fixtures – not good enough for a club of Barcelona’s calibre.

The visitors have the quality to put Spurs to the sword but this will not be straightforward by any means. EVS isn’t the best price in the world for an away win in this clash.

TIP: Both teams to score @ 4/9

PREDICTED SCORE: Tottenham 2-2 Barcelona (Priced at 19/2 with 888sport)

 

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