MLB Game Preview for June 29, 2010: Seattle Mariners @ New York Yankees

The 2010 World Cup betting is reaching a fever pitch as the MLB season starts to wind its way to the All-Star break. The Seattle Mariners have hit on some pretty hard times this season as they sit at the bottom of the AL West. The New York Yankees are in first place by two games in the AL East, and few people would be betting that a game between these two teams would hold any excitement. This game will surprise a lot of people that bet on MLB. This game will be a pitcher’s duel between Cliff Lee of the Mariners and Phil Hughes of the Yankees.

Cliff Lee left the Cleveland Indians as their staff ace and former Cy Young winner for the Philadelphia Phillies after the 2008 season. Midway through the season, Lee was moved to the Indians. He started life in Cleveland as part of their bullpen, and then worked his way into the starting rotation this season. As he was in Cleveland in 2008, Lee is becoming a pitching gem on a terrible team. This season he has a current streak of 37 innings without giving up a walk to go along with his 6-3 record and a 2.39 ERA.

Phil Hughes is a pitching gem on a Yankee staff full of pitching gems. His 10-1 record with a 3.17 ERA puts him as one of the best pitchers in baseball. Hughes is 5-0 in his last five starts with an ERA in that period of 3.86 ERA. He has four starts against the Mariners in his career with a record of 1-0 and a 2.00 ERA. The Yankees have a tendency to rest Hughes and skip his turn in the rotation to try and save his arm for the playoff run after the All-Star game, and that is the situation he will be coming from when he enters this game. A rested Hughes could be problems for the Mariners.

Placing a wager in World Cup final betting can sometimes involve national pride. In the case of the Mariners, betting on them against the Yankees would require a leap of faith. There are reasons why the Mariners are 14 games out of first place in the AL West in June. Those reasons are; second to last in AL batting average, last in the AL in hits, last in the AL in home runs and last in the AL in doubles. Basically, the Mariners can’t hit the baseball. With the constant exception of Ichiro, the Mariners are the worst hitting team in the AL.

The contrast on the Mariner team is incredible. They are second in the AL in complete games and are third in team ERA. However, they rank in the bottom third of the AL in saves and wins. Their bullpen is inconsistent and has a tendency to let down the starting rotation in difficult circumstances.

Cliff Lee is going to try and extend his streak of not allowing a walk, but it won’t do the Mariners much good. Phil Hughes will handcuff and already offensively inept team and the Mariners will be out of this one early.

Pick: New York Yankees 6-1

World Cup 2010 Picks - Brazil v Portugal

Bukomir's
World Cup 2010 Predictions

25 June, 2010

We have a selection of 4 bets on all of the World Cup fixtures today, starting from North Korea vs Ivory Coast and featuring, of course, the clash of the titans - Brazil v Portugal.
Which team is going to make it to the next round?
You can purchase our 4 picks today for as low as 4.99 USD.

Just click the button below, proceed the payment before 14:00 BST (UK time) and you will get the picks for today right into your email. Please note that in case you proceed with the payment later than 14:00 BST you will get our picks for tomorrow and miss the picks for today.

MLB Game Preview for June 24, 2010: Atlanta Braves @ Chicago White Sox

When you make a World Cup bet there is not a lot of team momentum that gets figured into your strategy. The games are far enough apart where the best team will usually win. When you decide you are betting on MLB, a team’s momentum can play into how you place your bet.

The MLB betting lately on the Chicago White Sox has been very different than the beginning of the season. The White Sox have won nine of their last 10 games, they are on a seven game winning streak and they have pulled to within four and a half games of AL Central leader Minnesota.

The NL East leading Atlanta Braves have won seven of their last 10, but their last game was a loss in the opening game of this series to the White Sox. The NL East is arguably the toughest division in baseball with only nine and a half games separating first place Atlanta from the last place Washington Nationals. No other division is that close. The Braves are currently in a battle with the New York Mets who are only a game and a half out, and this series with the red-hot White Sox is not what the Braves needed.

The World Cup finals betting comes at a time when the White Sox have been able to put any pitcher on the mound and find a way to win. Hopefully he starting pitcher for the White Sox in this game, Gavin Floyd, can benefit from the streak the White Sox have been on. Floyd is 2-7 this season with an ERA of 5.10. However, Floyd’s last game was an eight inning masterpiece against the Nationals. He only allowed one run and had five strikeouts. His career ERA against Atlanta is 9.80.

The Braves will send Derek Lowe to the mound for this game. Lowe is one of the few sinkerball pitchers left in the league, and his 9-5 record along with an ERA of 4.77 is not indicative of his effect this season. In reality Lowe has had two very bad outings that inflated his ERA. For the remainder of the season he has been extremely effective and he still has some of the best control in the major leagues.

The Braves need to win in order to fend off the charging Mets. The Mets have won eight of their last 10, and are currently in a series with the Detroit Tigers that is no easy feat. The Mets could lose a couple of games in that series, and the Braves need to take advantage of their opportunity.

Derek Lowe could be just what the doctor ordered for the Braves. He is a change of pace, not unlike a knuckleball pitcher, that can catch the White Sox off guard. The White Sox are decent at hitting home runs, but they struggle with doubles and singles. When you play against a pitcher like Derek Lowe, you need to be able to hit for doubles and singles to have a chance at winning.

Pick: Atlanta Braves 4-2

World Cup 2010 Picks - South Africa v France

This month in the vast landscape that is sports betting, the biggest draw is surely 2010 World Cup betting, as the best soccer teams around the globe descend on South Africa for football’s greatest trophy. While sports enthusiasts can still bet on MLB every day, most people are following the tournament in Africa, and everyone can keep track of the events on the soccer blog.

As of Tuesday, every team will have played two matches in the group stage with one more to go. As tournament procedure follows, the last two games in each group are played at the same exact time to avoid any match throwing or potential malfeasance. With that, both Group A games are at 10:00 EST on Monday, and both are pivotal. Few groups have been determined, and Group A feature hosts South Africa, Uruguay, France, and Mexico is no exception.

South Africa takes on France in a must win for Bafana Bafana if they hope to avoid becoming the first host nation of the World Cup to not advance to the round of 16. In the opener over a week ago, they entered the match as underdogs but avoided both embarrassment and defeat as they earned a draw against Mexico. In fact, South Africa opened the scoring in dramatic fashion, and held one for the point.

That point, however, is the lone one they have after a second match loss to Uruguay. South Africa currently sits three points behind both Uruguay and Mexico, and need to beat France, and get some help in order to move on.

It is a game that months ago many would have thought that the South Africans have no shot, but the French play has been exceedingly poor. France has dropped both games, failed to score a goal, and earned the scorn of their fans, and former star Zinedane Zidane. There has been derision and decent in the locker room, and earlier in the week players protested and did not show up for practice.

France will not make it out of the group stage, a huge disappointment after being runners up in 2006, losing to Italy on penalties in a thrilling and memorable finish. Their level of play has been far worse than expected. They were not expected to make as strong a run as 2006, having qualified for the Finals during a playoff against Ireland, and subsequently failing to impress in several friendlies. Their run will be done tomorrow, but the South Africans still have hope.

Betting lines: France are heavily favoured and really shouldn’t be at all. They haven’t scored, the players are coaches are at each other’s throat, and they have nothing for which to play. Conversely, Bafana Bafana still have slight hope, and nonetheless, they are playing in front of their home fans, country, and continent and will continue to play with heart and passion, even if the talent is not there. Though they may not move on in the finals, they will play valiantly, and earn a surprise victory.

World Cup 2010 Picks - Germany v Serbia

Bukomir's
World Cup 2010 Predictions

18 June, 2010

We have a selection of 3 bets on all of the World Cup fixtures today, starting from Germany vs Serbia. Serbia is facing "win or die" scenario so it will be a cracker this one!
You can purchase our 3 picks today for as low as 4.99 USD.

Just click the button below, proceed the payment before 12:00 BST (UK time) and you will get the picks for today right into your email. Please note that in case you proceed with the payment later than 12:00 BST you will get our 3 picks for tomorrow and miss the picks for today.

World Cup 2010 Picks - Argentina v South Korea

Bukomir's
World Cup 2010 Predictions

17 June, 2010

We have won our first paid pick yesterday and doubled our bankroll right from the start. I want to thanks all that signed and for their trust in our skills!

We have a selection of 3 bets on all of the World Cup fixtures today - odds are 1/1 (2.00 in Decinmal) and above, each. Subscription for the whole package is unfortunately over but you can purchase our 3 picks today for as low as 4.99 USD.
Just click the button below, proceed the payment before 12:00 BST (UK time) and you will get the picks for today. Please note that in case you proceed with the payment later than 12:00 BST you will get our 3 picks for tomorrow and miss the picks for today.

World Cup 2010 Picks - South Africa v Uruguay

Bukomir's
World Cup 2010 Predictions

16 June, 2010

South Africa vs Uruguay

We have a thrilling encounter to kick off the secnd round in group matches as the home side are facing a severe win or die test against the solid looking Uruguay. Which one will be?
The inspired hosts supported by a massive crowd and deafening noise or the team with great history and steady defense?

Read our pick in the Premium Picks package. This is your last chance to grab it for as low as 8.99 USD one time fee and enjoy our winning picks till the very end of the tournament.
Read what you get.

NBA Basketball Betting – Boston-Los Angeles Lakers Game 6 Preview

The NBA betting world is wondering if the odds can be bucked. The online betting community is just as fascinated as the NBA Finals come back to Los Angeles, where the world championship will be handed out. Will the Celtics close down the Lakers in Game 6, or will this series move to a winner-take-all Game 7 on Thursday? Nothing about this wacky series is overly predictable. Who has the edge as the teams fly across the country one last time in the 2010 campaign?

2010 NBA Finals: Boston Celtics @ Los Angeles Lakers, Game 6

Tuesday, June 15

If NBA Finals betting experts want to know which way to go in Game 6, their choice isn’t easy. If you want to think of a long-term historical trend, consider Laker coach Phil Jackson’s mark in playoff series when his team wins Game 1 of a series. Jackson is 47-0 under those circumstances, so a Boston pick would fly in the face of a great coach’s remarkable track record.

Then again, there’s reason to think that the Lakers just might make that stat 47-1. Los Angeles played horribly in Boston, with Lamar Odom failing to play adequate defense and struggling in Games 4 and 5. Derek Fisher won Game 3 almost single-handedly for L.A., but he fell off the map in his next two games while Boston point guard Rajon Rondo seemed to be invigorated. Rondo owned the closing minutes of Boston’s 92-86 Game 5 victory, and if that Rondo shows up in Los Angeles, the Lakers will be in deep trouble.

The other thing to realize if you’re looking for a pro-Celtics betting angle is that Laker big man Andrew Bynum is just not moving very effectively. He did log 32 minutes in Game 5, but was not an imposing presence on the floor, and especially not in the second half. He grabbed only one rebound and is not the same man who makes the Lakers much more imposing near the rim, especially on defense. There are good reasons to think Boston can finish off the reigning champs and re-take the title it won in 2008.

Then again, the Lakers – at home – have a few things riding in their favor. For one thing, Nate Robinson – who sparked Boston over the past week of games in New England – is not an effective road player. The Lakers’ supporting cast – as is normally the case in the NBA – should fare better at home, and if that is indeed the case in Game 6, Boston will not be able to dictate the way it did at TD Garden. While Staples Center does not have rabid crowds, the simple fact that it is not an enemy lair will give the Lakers a comfort zone.

World Cup odds might have misjudged Germany. Basketball oddsmakers should not misjudge how much home court could mean for the Lakers in Game 6. They’ll force a Game 7.

Online basketball betting pick: Lakers

World Cup 2010 Picks - CIV v Portugal

Bukomir's
World Cup 2010 Predictions

15 June, 2010

LOST
Cote d'Ivoire v Portugal

kick off 15:00 BST

This is our last daily free pick for the World Cup as we launch our Premium Picks package on Wednesday morning. Starting from South Africa vs Uruguay you can have our winning picks right to the final for as low as 8.99 USD one time fee. The blog will still feature free daily previews but not picks included.

Thanks to all than signed already and I believe we will seriously boost your bankroll!

Back to the game it will be a thrilling encounter with two of the best attacking line ups of this tournament. The nerves are shaking as both teams clearly understand a win here can bring their campaign to a new level. Brazil is heavy favorite, no doubt, but which team will join the World Cup giants in phase 2?

You have probably read my betting preview where I had pointed Portugal as a likely dark horse of the tournament. They had some troubles in their qualifying campaign but it is all well behind now. Nani is out of the tournament early on but Portugal has a number of quality midfielders who can fill the gap. Deco, Tiago, Raul Meireles and Ronaldo are a dangerous company to face and I can smell goals are coming. On the other hand we have another massive attacking line up despite the fact Drogba is not fit enough. CIV has Kalou, Keita, Dindane and yeah, they can also score goals!

I will take “Both teams to score” here as the full time exit is not clear enough. Goals are guaranteed as both teams love to attack and often concede too many. My major concern is the number of low score affairs at this World Cup so far but still can’t see a single 0 stands for Portugal or CIV in that one.

Bet selection:
Both teams to score

Odds: 13/10 offered by bet365

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Bookmakers of choice:
I will use mainly the following bookies to bet on Fifa World Cup 2010 as I find them secure, trusted and user friendly:

Ladbrokes, bet365, bwin and Bet-at-home.


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Before the game starts & after the final whistle:
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World Cup 2010 Picks - Japan v Cameroon

Bukomir's
World Cup 2010 Predictions

14 June, 2010

Japan v Cameroon
kick off 15:00 BST
LOST
3 out of 3 for me so far this World Cup and a serious boost to my bankroll! I hope you are following closely – consider also my premium picks package for every game, starting from June 16 right to the final.

We have 3 tricky affairs on Monday and I will skip Holland and Italy due to low prices and unpredictable opponents. Denmark is solid in defense and Paraguay has great attackers who can make Italy suffer.

I will focus my attention on Japan playing against Cameroon for what should be a must win for both teams. Japan are passing the ball well, keeping the control and creating opportunities. The big problem here is scoring goals and against Cameroon this can be crucial. The Africans have Webo and Eto’O up front and goals look guaranteed. Japan have lost their last 3 friendly games, including 0:2 against CIV and this is a sign we should take in consideration. The team will close the game early on and hope to score one and defend it till the end. But I am afraid Cameroon will be too strong and their attacking pair will put Japan under tremendous pressure. In their last 2 friendly games the Africans scored 3 against Serbia (lost 3:4) and even broke Portugal’s defense once (1:3). I will bet on Cameroon power, physical advantages and better current form.

Bet selection:
Cameroon to win.

Odds: bet-at-home is pricing this option at tasty 2.05

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Bookmakers of choice:
I will use mainly the following bookies to bet on Fifa World Cup 2010 as I find them secure, trusted and user friendly:

Ladbrokes, bet365, bwin and Bet-at-home.


Subscribe for our World Cup 2010 Updates via RSS:

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Before the game starts & after the final whistle:
I found playing poker as an great alternative on sports betting and a way to increase my bankroll seriously. And it is more fun, that is for sure. You can find me on 1/2 PL Omaha at:

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World Cup 2010 Picks - Algeria v Slovenia

Bukomir's
World Cup 2010 Predictions

13 June, 2010

WON
Algeria v Slovenia
kick off 12:30 BST

2 out of 2 in my first picks for the World Cup! I hope the series continues today when I will try my first full time winner bet. Algeria vs Slovenia looks like the perfect game for that purpose as both teams clearly know a winning start is vital here. England and USA are heavy favorites in this group and 3 points in today's match will keep the spirit up and hopes alive.
Algeria have all sort of problems and my opinion is the team is not well preperaed for this World cup. The side has been seriously remodelled since qualification, which will impact the game for sure. Even captain Yazid Mansouri was dropped out by the coach due to lack of form.
I have watched Slovenia on a couple of occasions during their qualification campaign and I see one well balanced team capable of beating everyone on a good day. Matjaz Kek stuck with a settled starting line-up, captained by midfielder Robert Koren. Star striker Milivoje Novakovic proved his fitness and even scored twice in the friendly win against New Zealand.
Slovenia will dominate this one with their calm, organized approach to every game and will show their progress to the world at the best possibel scene.

Bet selection:
Slovenia to win.
Odds: bwin is offering 2.15


You want to browse all our picks? Read more and buy the premium pack.

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Bookmakers of choice:
I will use mainly the following bookies to bet on Fifa World Cup 2010 as I find them secure, trusted and user friendly:

Ladbrokes, bet365, bwin and Bet-at-home.


Subscribe for our World Cup 2010 Updates via RSS:

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Before the game starts & after the final whistle:
I found playing poker as an great alternative on sports betting and a way to increase my bankroll seriously. And it is more fun, that is for sure. You can find me on 1/2 PL Omaha at:

Full Tilt and PokerStars

World Cup 2010 Picks - England v USA

Bukomir's
World Cup 2010 Predictions

12 June, 2010

WON
England v USA
kick off 19:30 BST

After an excellent start to our World Cup 2010 betting campaign yesterday we have the big game in focus tonight as England are facing USA. Prices on England are a joke considering USA strong line up and team mentality. I want just to remind you that pretty much the same aquad was leading 2:0 against Brazil at last summer's Confederations Cup final. The same that broke Spain's amazing record of 15 consecutive victories! So 1.50 for England is not worthy shot and I will focus again on Goals market.
My selection for today will be "Both teams to score" at 2.00. I hope we will avoid another boring 0:0 draw here and have an open game with more opportunities. USA have gone 10 games without keeping a clean sheet and I expect the series to continue tonight. The team is capable of scoring too - the United States were top scorers in the World Cup qualifying campaign with 42 goals in 18 games. Altidore is fit and will start up front.
I have no doubts England will score here and kick off their campaign in style - just don't want to risk my money before seing the actula form of Capello's lads. Joe Cole is expected to replace the injured Gareth Barry in midfield, with Ledley King and Emile Heskey also in the side. One goal is the minimum England will produce tonight.

Bet selection:
Take both teams to score and get 2.00 offered by bet365

You want to browse all our picks? Read more and buy the premium pack.

---

Bookmakers of choice:
I will use mainly the following bookies to bet on Fifa World Cup 2010 as I find them secure, trusted and user friendly:

Ladbrokes, bet365, bwin and Bet-at-home.


Subscribe for our World Cup 2010 Updates via RSS:

↑ Grab this Headline Animator

Before the game starts & after the final whistle:
I found playing poker as an great alternative on sports betting and a way to increase my bankroll seriously. And it is more fun, that is for sure. You can find me on 1/2 PL Omaha at:

Full Tilt and PokerStars

World Cup 2010 Picks - Uruguay v France

Bukomir's
World Cup 2010 Predictions

11 June, 2010

WON
Uruguay v France

kick off 19:30 BST

I will keep the opening for fun (as South Africa vs Mexico can easily go either way) and get back to business with the evening fixture. It is important to kick off our betting campaign for the World Cup 2010 in style and that is why i picked a safety bet. Under 2.5 goals looks like money in the bank when we have these teams on line. Both are so focused on defense and recent results proove it. Considering also the fact it will be their opening game, a conservative approach is exected. Mexico and South Africa are better opponents for both, so I won't be surprised if the draw pop up here.
My major concern for taking that draw is that strikers Diego Forlan and Luis Suarez are paired together up front. It is a nighmare duo for every defence and call it madness, but Uruguay are capable of producing an upset here. France lost their last warm-up game to China and it seems the team has problems to fix.

Bet selection:
Take the Under 2.5 Goals option and get 1.65 offered by bet365

You want to browse all our picks? Read more and buy the premium pack.

---

Bookmakers of choice:
I will use mainly the following bookies to bet on Fifa World Cup 2010 as I find them secure, trusted and user friendly:

Ladbrokes, bet365, bwin and Bet-at-home.


Subscribe for our World Cup 2010 Updates via RSS:

↑ Grab this Headline Animator

Before the game starts & after the final whistle:
I found playing poker as an great alternative on sports betting and a way to increase my bankroll seriously. And it is more fun, that is for sure. You can find me on 1/2 PL Omaha at:

Full Tilt and PokerStars

NBA Betting – Celtics Aim to Avoid 3-1 Hole vs Lakers

World Cup betting players don’t have to worry about a series, but if Boston goes down three games to one against Los Angeles in the NBA Finals, it would be the soccer equivalent of losing their first two group stages, needing a win to advance. A win wouldn’t clinch the series for Boston, but the Celtics would stand a better chance of sending this back to Los Angeles, regardless of what Paul Pierce said after Game 2.


















Celtics Lakers Betting – Thursday, June 10, 9:00 PM ET

Derek Fisher put the Lakers on his back in the fourth quarter of a 91-84 win in Boston in Tuesday’s Game 4, scoring 11 of his 16 points in the final 12 minutes. Fisher has taken some heat from fans who say his defense hurts the Lakers. While it does at time, Fisher did a great job of harassing Ray Allen into an awful night, and he may be the poor man’s Robert Horry when it comes to making big shots. Remember, Fisher has been here for four championships with the Lakers, and he doesn’t get nervous. Kobe Bryant dropped a game-high 29 points for the Lakers, who outrebounded the Celtics 43-35 and held Boston to 43.8% from the floor.

Just two nights after setting an NBA Finals record with eight three-pointers, Allen was a miserable 0-of-13 from the field on Tuesday, and he missed all eight of his chances from beyond the arc. Allen managed a paltry two points in Game 3, which allowed the Lakers to stay in single coverage on him and the rest of the Celtics. Kevin Garnett dropped 25 points in his best offensive output of the playoffs, while Pierce added 15 points for the Celtics, who were down by 12 points at halftime.

NBA betting odds are favoring the Celtics by 3.5 points in this critical Game 4, and they can’t let Fisher run wild like he did in Game 3 or else the Celtics may not make it back to Tinseltown like Pierce said, except they would be on the losing end of a loss. The biggest key to the Celtics’ success is Allen, who has been inconsistent throughout the entire postseason, and seeing as how he laid an egg on Tuesday, expect him to come out with plenty of fire in Game 4 because quite frankly, Fisher can’t guard Allen one-on-one. The Celtics won the points-in-the-paint battle by a score of 50-38, but it still seems like the Lakers are out-toughing the Celtics, which would have been unheard of for anyone who watched the 2008 Finals. But still, this Boston team won’t go down without a fight as we’ve seen.

Betting pick: Boston -3.5

Top World Cup 2010 Fantasy Football Picks

Now I should admit I am totally hit by the World Cup 2010 fever - preparing my betting strategy for the outright winner and free picks for round 1, shaping the launch of the premium pick services for the World Cup (8,99 USD only for my loyal readers) - will be live tomorrow, building fanatsy football team, one after another! I know many of you love to extra spice the game with your own 11 fantasy players - let me share my top picks for the official World Cup 2010 fantasy game.















McDonald’s 2010 FIFA World Cup Fantasy Picks

1. My advice is to go with 4-4-2 scheme as it is perfectly balanced. Bringing 3 forwards may look a good choice for 4-3-3 but midfielders are better deal when it comes to scoring points. So, keep it classic and concentrate on your choice of players.

2. Don't pick a goalkeeper or defenders coming from weak teams. This is crucial for your long term result in any fantasy football game. What I did was to focus on expensive keeper and defenders from top teams which are expected to make it to the semis at least. Then look deeper - Argentina and Brazil will score many but probably concede too. The same with Spain. I will try Italy or France as 0:0 is so common result in their games.

3. For the midfield my choice is determined by the world cup winner prediction I've posted earlier. It means you should focus on Portugal and pick 2 of their attacking midfielders to secure a number of points throughtout the tournament. Cheaper option than Argentina, Brazil or Spain for sure.

4. Forwards - ok, it seemed we had spent almost the entire budget on our expensive keeper and defenders. So, be creative - Cameroon, Denmark, Cote d'Ivoire are offering plenty of quality attackers to complete your line up. Pick two and hope the team will make it after the group stage.

Of course, we have a Betting Picks private league as usual. Join us at McDonald's FIFA World Cup Fantasy game using the code 443944-102487 after entering the game. http://bit.ly/dbFkVW

You can jump directly on the real game and if so, be sure to check our World Cup 2010 betting offes first. And good luck!

World Cup 2010 Betting Preview – To Win Outright

I personally don’t like the market that much as you place your bets now and then wait for a whole month to complete and get your well deserved reward. However this World Cup is offering fantastic opportunities to maximize your winnings using such a long terms bets.

I agree the action is totally with the In-Play markets (and my advice is to keep a close eye on bet365 console as it is surely the best one available on line), but still the champion worth a shot. The competition is severe and you have the chance to grab a tasty price 3 days before the tournament starts and bookies reconsider their offerings.

Don’t bet on favorites

I agree it is so easy to point your finger on Spain or Brazil and no one can blame you for this. Both teams look solid enough and a price around 5 is just ok. But where is the betting thrill? And what about your instinct – is it dead? I have the feeling World Cup 2010 will produce a massive upset for the favorites. Spain is the top team on paper, yes – but browsing back their history, it is hard to believe that they can fight against their world cup destiny. Brazil changed the style under Dunga and nobody can tell if that is for good or bad. The team is under huge question mark while missing stars such as Ronaldinho and featuring so much not in Kaka.

My pick – Portugal

The team is somehow outside of the media focus. Spain, Brazil, Italy, England, Holland are occupying bookies top spots and experts’ predictions. But I dig a bit deeper and Portugal looks like a classic dark horse of the tournament. They have a well balanced squad of young stars and experienced players, brilliant coach and tactics. Just look at the forwards: the big star Ronaldo is next toAlmeida, Liedson, Simao! What is better – Deco in the midfield who will create opportunities and attack himself. They all are well gelled together which is a big plus when it comes to such a tournament.

Portugal play their opening game against Cote d'Ivoire in Nelson Mandela Bay/Port Elizabeth. They then switch to Cape Town to play against Korea DPR before facing Brazil for the final game of the group. Means Portugal can have their job done in the first two! Update from yesterday: Poland beat Mozambique 3:0, Nani is out of the tournament.

• Bet365 is offering today the huge price of 29.00 for Portugal to be crown and I will take this shot without any hesitation.

You can also check bet365 amazing offer (at the blog) for your “To Win Outright” bets.

NBA Playoff Preview – Los Angeles Lakers vs Boston Celtics

After a terrible Celtics’ effort led to the Los Angeles Lakers taking the opening game of their NBA Finals series 102-89, critics were questioning Boston’s ability to keep up with their opponent and make it a competitive series. Much can change in 72 hours however as the Celtics proved that observers put way too much stock in the loss, bouncing back to take Game Two, 103-94. Now, with the series shifting to Boston for Tuesday night’s game, the Celtics look to build on their win, and do everything in their power to avoid having to book a return trip to the west coast.













Los Angeles Lakers @ Boston Celtics

Tuesday June 9, 2010 – 9 PM ET

NBA Finals Betting Odds: Celtics – 120

After sub-par performances from their starters in Game One, four of which finished in double-digit minus figures in regards to plus/minus, the Celtics showed a lot more flare in Sunday night’s win. Led by Ray Allen, who had just 12 points and was 0-for-2 shooting from beyond the arc in Game One, Boston put on a shooting clinic, including Allen’s game-high 32, including an 8-for-11 mark from three, which set an NBA Finals record for most three-pointers. Rajon Rondo looked much more like the speed demon that dominated both the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Orlando Magic en route to the finals, scoring 19, while dishing out 10 assists and grabbing 12 boards for the triple-double. The play of Rondo and Allen masked the tough offensive nights of Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett, who combined for just 16 points in the win. Rasheed Wallace was a force again off the bench despite only scoring 7, as he finished with the best plus/minus of all Boston players with a plus-15 mark.

For Los Angeles, it was a case of too little, too late, as although they managed to come back from a double-digit deficit to tie the game late in the fourth quarter, eventually the team just ran out of gas. Pau Gasol, who played such a pivotal role of the Lakers in Game One, had the worst plus/minus on the team, and must be better in Game Three if Los Angeles is going to have any chance of winning on the road. Phil Jackson is one of the best adjustment making coaches in the game, and you can bet he’ll be going back to the drawing board after the loss.

NBA Betting Pick: Lakers + 110

Lakers Celtics Betting Lines: Over/Under 190

These teams have reached this mark in both games to open the series, and that’s with each struggling on opposing nights. Now, with the Celtics back on home court where they are a much better shooting team, expect these teams to combine for an over, as Bryant and the Lakers look to bounce back from a loss away from home, where Boston will be playing for an ecstatic home crowd.

Betting Pick: Over – 190

Hot World Cup 2010 Offers

It is time to sniff the best available offers at World Cup markets and use them efficiently. As usual, we will pick just 3 or 4 bookies and stick with them during the whole tournament using the best value we can get. Let’s look around about the best offer to kick off the World Cup betting madness.

Bet365 Refunds Your Bet

Place a bet on the Outright Market for the 2010 World Cup and if the team you back is eliminated on penalties, bet365 will refund your losing bet. This offer applies to both win and each-way bets. Don’t also forget that bet365 will be offering this market In-Play throughout the tournament, with this fantastic offer being available until the World Cup final kicks off on Sunday 11th July.
Whoever you fancy to lift the cup in South Africa, you can place your bet safe in the knowledge that you won’t be suffering any penalty heartache this summer.

Tomorrow we will post our Outright Market predictions which can help you make the right decision.

Bwin Offers 10k Massive Jackpot

Who will be crowned World Champions? Who will be the top goal-scorer? Get these two bets right and by the end of the World Cup, you’ll have netted the title of bwin Champion 2010 as well as the massive jackpot! 10.000 euro is the minimum you can get as the jackpot depends on the number of users attended (1 euro for each max to 1.000.000!).

A bet on the 2010 World Champions and the best goal-scorer is enough to take part. If both bets are successful, you will be the 2010 bwin Champion 2010 and win the jackpot!

The minimum stake is 4.5 Euro.

100 Euro from bet-at-home

It is a massive bonus available for existing and new customers of this bookmaker. Bet-at-home will simple double your next deposit with the site up to 100 Euro for a perfect start of the World Cup. You should not miss out on this fantastic opportunity – pay attention: this offer is valid only until June 16!

The World Cup bonus will be credited immediately after you log on to your betting account, so your bonus money will be available within minutes.

The bonus code is: B2010

World Cup 2010 Fantasy Football

As the World Cup is quickly approaching I am browsing some fantasy football offerings which will make the championship more spicy and thrilling. And even may bring some great prizes such as 12k pounds or a brand new KIA car. Sunday is a perfect day to browse through a sea of information on squads and line ups and choose your best men for the upcoming cup. I have chosen for me two alternatives to play fantasy football for this World Cup - one for free and one paid but backed up with solid returns. Let me share.

McDonald’s 2010 FIFA World Cup Fantasy

If you don't want to invest a single dollar in fantasy football the official game of the tournament suits your plans perfectly. Additionaly it can bring you a nice overall prize such as a brand new KIA car! All well known opitions are loaded - mini leagues, head to head and knockouts, transfers, etc. - read all you need to know about this game here.
Of course, we have a Betting Picks private league as usual. Join us at McDonald's FIFA World Cup Fantasy game using the code 443944-102487 after entering the game. http://bit.ly/dbFkVW

You The Manager World Cup

Yep, the Mirror Fantasy game is back for the biggest tournament and I will join it with pleasure after a thrilling Premier league season. Several new and exciting features are on, such as 6-Week Form Guide, updated Team History page, updated Message Boards on Mini Leagues, and '09/10 Pts' which gives you an idea of each players form coming into the tournament in South Africa.
More good news: as a special offer for all returning customers who have yet to enter, they have loaded a £3 credit. You can only use this credit against the cost of Pre-Pay Transfers on a team in our World Cup competition. Cool!
I will post my private league details on my Twitter stream as usual, so be sure to check it out and add some extra emotions.
I almost forgot the prizes - 12.000 Pounds is a massive first place reward! They have added 1.250 Pounds for the winner in every stage (5 of them available throughout the tournament).

NBA Finals Betting – Lakers, Celtics Tip Off Finals In Los Angeles

While World Cup betting players are waiting for the first kick of the ball on June 11, NBA betting fans are getting ready for the Finals to start on Thursday night at the Staples Center, and not only does it feature the last two winners of the NBA championship, but it also features the most storied franchises in NBA history, and they have 32 titles between them.

NBA Final Betting – Thursday, June 3, 9:00 PM ET

The 17-time champion Boston Celtics are aiming to continue their dominance over the Lakers in the NBA Finals: these two giants have met for the title 11 times, with the Celtics winning nine of those series, including the six-game win in 2008. In two games against the Lakers this season, the Celtics have won once, and it came at the Staples Center by a point. Rajon Rondo averaged 17.5 points and 11.5 assists to lead the Celtics in their two meetings with their rivals, while Ray Allen was next with 15.5 points.

Kobe Bryant played just one of those games against the Celtics, netting 19 points, while Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum averaged 16.5 points and 9.5 boards between them. However, Bynum has been held back by a torn ligament in his knee that happened during the first-round series against Oklahoma City, and he won’t be the same player in the middle for the Lakers. Also, the Lakers are a perfect 8-0 at the Staples Center during this playoff run, and that’s going to play a role in this series.

NBA betting odds have the Lakers as a 5.5-point favorite in Game 1 on Thursday night, and they’ve won six of their last 10 at home against the Celtics, including their loss this season. The Celtics are 5-3 in eight games away from the TD Banknorth Garden during the playoffs, and they know the Staples Center crowd is going to be on fire on Thursday. Both teams have injury worries, as Bynum’s knee is a constant, while Rondo and Rasheed Wallace were limited in practice. The biggest problem may be Kevin Garnett, who took a step back in the last series against Orlando, and his right knee that has been bothering him all season may be flaring up, which would make this the perfect time for Gasol to get his revenge for the 2008 Finals, when he was manhandled by Garnett. The Lakers also have Ron Artest, who will make life tough for Paul Pierce. The Celtics have veteran players who were around for the 2008 run, which will get them ready for the Staples Center, but you can expect the Lakers to come out with revenge on their minds. Place an online sports bet on the Lakers on Thursday night.

NBA Betting – Celtics, Lakers Meet Once Again For All The Marbles

For a World Cup betting matchup to equal the importance of the rivalry between the Los Angeles Lakers and Boston Celtics, you would have to look at Brazil against Italy, the two countries with the most World Cup, and like Brazil and Italy, the Lakers and Celtics have won the last two NBA champions. Here is a breakdown on the NBA Finals, which will kick off on Thursday night in Los Angeles.

Celtics Lakers Betting – Thursday, June 3, 9:00 PM ET

The Celtics have taken out the top two seeds in the Eastern Conference, defeating Cleveland and Orlando in six games each after beating Miami in five games. Paul Pierce leads the Celtics with 19.1 points, along with 6.2 rebounds, while Ray Allen is next with 16.8 points. Rajon Rondo has put up 16.7 points, 10.0 assists and 5.3 boards while doing an efficient job of running the Boston offense, but the Celtics have gotten back to the NBA Finals because of their defense: the Celtics have allowed their opponents to score 91.4 points, while holding them to 43.8% from the field.

The Lakers’ NBA championship betting odds have been low all season as the defending champions, and they have gotten rid of Oklahoma City and Phoenix in six games apiece, along with a second-round sweep of Utah. Of course, Kobe Bryant has been fuelling the Lakers’ postseason run with 29.4 points, 6.2 assists and 5.1 boards, while shooting 40.5% from three-point land. Pau Gasol has chipped in with 20.0 points and 10.9 boards while shooting 56.5% from the field for the Lakers, who have shot 47.7% as a team, while holding the opposition to 43.7%.

NBA betting odds have the Lakers as a -180 favorite in this series, and this will be the 12^th time that these two franchises who have combined for 32 championships (Boston with 17, Los Angeles with 15) have met in the Finals. The Celtics have dominated this rivalry, winning nine of the 11 previous meetings in the NBA Finals, including the six-game win in 2008 which was punctuated by a 131-92 rout at home in the clincher. The two have met twice this season, with the road team winning each time by a point. You know that the Game 6 loss in Boston two years ago wasn’t erased by winning the championship last year, and the Lakers would love nothing more than to return the favor, especially Bryant, who is looking for his fifth ring. The Celtics have to figure out a way to slow down Bryant, while the Lakers will probably go with Ron Artest on Pierce in what should be a physical matchup. This is a tougher Lakers team than the one the Celtics rolled over in 2008, and that will be the difference in this series.

Online sports betting pick: Los Angeles Lakers -180