Solitary Derbies Keep the Heat up in the Major European Leagues
Published January 25, 2020 by Florin P
Bayern Munich gears up for what looks like an easy win over Schalke, but Barcelona braces for a difficult derby against Valencia.
There are not many high profile matches scheduled for Saturday, as the best European teams play against mediocre opponents. The good news is that there are just enough exciting games to keep football fans interested, while providing multiple betting opportunities to savvy punters.
Bayern and Schalke Chase a Podium Placement
The German first division hasn’t been this competitive in years and Bayern Munich are still chasing the leaders. Schalke sit in fifth place, but a victory on Saturday at 5:30 PM UK time can lift them all the way to second place. The odds of securing such a win are remote, with bet365 Sports pricing this event at 14/1, which reflects the difference between the two teams. By comparison, the hosts get odds of 1/5, which can be surprising since the two teams are separated by only three points in the standings.
Reeling Torino and Atalanta meet in Must-Win Match
Torino and Atalanta have both suffered narrow margin defeats last round against teams they were expected to defeat with relative ease. Now they play against each other and both are hard-pressed to secure victory, with the draw not being an option. Torino are simply trying to end the slide but the odds of 7/2 to win suggests that they will have a hard time picking up three points. Atalanta have higher expectations and dream of a Champions League berth and 888 Sport prices their win at 3/4.
Valencia and Barcelona Reignite Old Rivalry
Valencia were unable to capitalize on their direct competitors’ failures last weekend, after suffering a humiliating defeat at the hands of Mallorca. They now play against a much more difficult opponent, as Barcelona comes to town, but home pitch advantage has been huge throughout the season. Valencia is the only undefeated home team besides Barcelona and Real Madrid, still they get odds of 4/1. Winner Sports is firmly behind Barcelona in this fixture, as indicated by the 7/10 odds awarded on the Catalans to win.
Something has to Give when Heerenveen Meets AZ Alkmaar
Heerenveen and AZ Alkmaar are separated by 13 points and they have different goals for this season. Both lost last weekend by 1-3 and in order to keep their objectives alive, they must steady the ship and secure at least a point. What makes this game particularly interesting is the fact that Heerenveen lost a single match at home, while AZ Alkmaar are one of the best traveling teams. The odds of 4/5 indicate the fact that they are favorites to win again, while the hosts are priced at 7/2 to prevail.
