All my Soccer picks are researched and analysed fully, each one carries my full confidence with a focus on picks that offer value for money.

It is quite a big handicap for an away side to overcome, however, I am very confident that Odd will do just that today.

Start are woeful, they are bottom of the table for a reason, they have just seven points from a possible 54 and that alone should show you how poor they are.

Odd are second in the table and the gulf between these two sides is immense, I would be very surprised if Odd do not win this one and win it by at least a couple of goals.

All my MLB picks are researched and analysed fully, each one carries my full confidence with a focus on picks that offer value for money.

I take the Tigers to win his one and to win it by a couple of runs at least, I do not trust the Mets pitcher Syndergaard, he is very inconsistent and vulnerable and I fully expect the Tigers batters to take him to task early on.

All my MLB picks are researched and analysed fully, each one carries my full confidence with a focus on picks that offer value for money.

I fully expect the LA Dodgers to defeat Arizona today and to beat them by at least two runs.

All my MLB picks are researched and analysed fully, each one carries my full confidence with a focus on picks that offer value for money.

I am taking the Twins to beat the White Sox by at least a couple of runs today.

All my Soccer picks are researched and analysed fully, each one carries my full confidence with a focus on picks that offer value for money.

Stromgodset all day long for me in this one, not only do I expect them to win , but I expect them to win by at least two goals and cover the spread.

All my Soccer picks are researched and analysed fully, each one carries my full confidence with a focus on picks that offer value for money.

On paper Sporting KC should win this one, but Portland have been improving, yes they lost last week against NYC and Sporting KC are formidable at home, but Portland have drawn their last four away matches and Sporting KC are not unbeatable at home.

Take Portland on the spread and get both the draw and away win on your side

All my MLB picks are researched and analysed fully, each one carries my full confidence with a focus on picks that offer value for money.

I am confident that the Phillies will win this one over the Braves and to beat them by at least a couple of runs.

All my MLB picks are researched and analysed fully, each one carries my full confidence with a focus on picks that offer value for money.

I am confident that Houston will win this one and win it by at least two runs.

All my MLB picks are researched and analysed fully, each one carries my full confidence with a focus on picks that offer value for money.

I am taking the Blue Jays to win this one and to win it by at least a couple of runs.

All my MLB picks are researched and analysed fully, each one carries my full confidence with a focus on picks that offer value for money.

Texas are the pick in this one, I fully expect them to beat the Royals and beat them with a bit in hand.

All my MLB picks are researched and analysed fully, each one carries my full confidence with a focus on picks that offer value for money.

I am taking the Reds to beat the Padres this evening and to win by a couple of runs at least.

All my MLB picks are researched and analysed fully, each one carries my full confidence with a focus on picks that offer value for money.

I take the Braves to emerge the winners in this match up with the Phillies this evening and to win the game by a couple of runs.

All my MLB picks are researched and analysed fully, each one carries my full confidence with a focus on picks that offer value for money.

Detroit are the value in this one, I am confident they will beat the Astros and cover the spread.

All my MLB picks are researched and analysed fully, each one carries my full confidence with a focus on picks that offer value for money.

I am taking the San Francisco Giants to cover the spread and beat the Nationals by at least a couple of runs.

All my MLB picks are researched and analysed fully, each one carries my full confidence with a focus on picks that offer value for money.

I fancy the Rangers to bounce back from their loss to Oakland last night and claim a win over the Royals. The Royals done well for us last night, but I do not see them repeating the trick against Texas.

I am taking Texas to win and win by a couple.

All my MLB picks are researched and analysed fully, each one carries my full confidence with a focus on picks that offer value for money.

I am confident that the Brewers will win this one today and win it by at least a couple of runs.

All my MLB picks are researched and analysed fully, each one carries my full confidence with a focus on picks that offer value for money.

I am confident that the Royals will beat the Angels by at least a couple of runs tonight. 

All my MLB picks are researched and analysed fully, each one carries my full confidence with a focus on picks that offer value for money.

Houston are deserved favourites for this one and I am backing them to beat the Yankees this evening and not just to beat them but to beat them by two or more runs.

All my MLB picks are researched and analysed fully, each one carries my full confidence with a focus on picks that offer value for money.

Boston are favourites to win this one and I fully agree with the odds makers on that, in fact I am very confident that the Red Sox will win this one by at least a couple of runs.

Flamengo v América Mineiro

As soccer games go, this one is a bit of a mismatch and I fully expect the home side to win and to win easy.

This is not so much about Flamengo but about America Mineiro, they are utterly woeful, they have got just eight points from 15 games and are already seven points adrift at the bottom, they have lost six road games from seven and drawn the other, basically that is one point from a possible 21, like I say woeful.

Flamengo are not world beaters, however they are seventh, they have a 4-3-3 record at home and a win today will take them up to fifth, they have won their last two home games and have some momentum.

One last factor, in five out of their six away losses, America Mineiro have lost by two goals or more.

Therefore I am going for a home win and for Flamengo to cover the 1.5 goal spread.

Elfsborg v Östersunds FK

I am taking Elfsborg to get the better of promoted outfit Ostersunds today in the Swedish Allsvenskan.

Ostersunds have done ok so far for a promoted side, however, they are a mediocre outfit and while their away record is not so bad on the face of it, just two losses from seven, they are still very vulnerable and with just the one win on the road, very limited.

Ostersunds have drawn four times away from home, but when they get beat, they get beat in style, 3-0 and 5-0 losses confirm that, they are very defensive, though in all fairness their most recent away draw against Norkopping did buck that trend with a 3-3 result.

Elfsborg are only two points ahead of Ostersunds and their home record is average with three wins, two draws and a loss, but recently they have shown signs of building momentum with three wins and three draws in their last six games home and away.

Basically, Elfsborg will set out to attack and put Ostersunds down early on, the away side will defend vigorously like they have done in nearly every game this season, but I cannot see them holding out for the full 90 minutes and I do expect Elfsborg to emerge the victors and cover the spread.

Unfortunately due to time constraints I am unable to provide full written analysis of this pick, however, this pick has been fully analysed and researched and carries my full confidence.

I am taking the Dodgers to win this game and cover the spread.

Unfortunately due to time constraints I am unable to provide full written analysis of this pick, however, this pick has been fully analysed and researched and carries my full confidence.

I take the Rays to defeat Oakland this evening and to win by a couple of runs at least.

Unfortunately due to time constraints I am unable to provide full written analysis of this pick, however, this pick has been fully analysed and researched and carries my full confidence.

I am taking the Kansas City Royals to overcome a 1.5 run spread and win against Texas.

Unfortunately due to time constraints I am unable to provide full written analysis of this pick, however, this pick has been fully analysed and researched and carries my full confidence.

I like the look of the Cubs in this one, I am positive they will ease to victory over the Brewers and avenge last nights defeat.

Unfortunately due to time constraints I am unable to provide full written analysis of this pick, however, this pick has been fully analysed and researched and carries my full confidence.

The Nationals look good for the win against San Diego and I fully expect them to emerge the winners by at least a couple of runs.

Unfortunately due to time constraints I am unable to provide full written analysis of this pick, however, this pick has been fully analysed and researched and carries my full confidence.

I am confident that the Yankees will avenge last nights loss and get the win against the Yankees today and to win by at least two runs.

Unfortunately due to time constraints I am unable to provide full written analysis of this pick, however, this pick has been fully analysed and researched and carries my full confidence.

I am very confident that Toronto will win this one against Seattle and to win it with a bit in hand.

Rays @ Athletics

I am taking the A'S to win this one and to win it with a bit in hand.

The Rays starting pitcher Drew Smyly is hardly in good form, he is 2-11 for the season, has given up four on more runs in eight of his last nine starts and has a 8.03 ERA over that period, whatever way you dress it up, he is not in good form.

Oakland's Kendall Graveman is in far better form, his last seven starts have seen him return a ERA of 2.64 and in comparison to Smyly, he is in brilliant shape.

I see the A's getting off to a strong start and maintaining it throughout.

Take the A's to win by at least two runs.

Phillies @ Pittsburgh

The Phillies were a big winner for me yesterday, however, I will be opposing them tonight and take the Pirates to beat them and beat them well.

Phillies pitcher may have had a good game last time out, but it will take more than one game to erase his appalling form before that and I am far from convinced that he is back to his best yet.

Pirates pitcher Tyler Glasnow will be making his home debut and of course he has a lot to prove, but I am confident he will do just fine this evening and will be able to contain the Phillies batters, he will have come on from his loss against the Cardinals.

I am confident that the Pirates batters will do better than they did last night and there are just as many question marks over the Phillies pitcher as there is over the Pirates pitcher.

It is the Pirates for me this evening by at least 2 runs.

Dodgers @ Cardinals

I am backing the Dodgers to not only break the Cardinals four game winning streak but to do it by at least two runs.

The Cardinals are in form, they have won four on the bounce and are 7-3 over their last ten games, they have to be respected, but there are a good few reasons why they should be opposed this evening.

For starters they are not as effective at home as they are on the road, their losing record at home shows that, secondly the Dodgers are no walkovers, they have a decent record, they sit a clear second in the National league West and got back to winning ways yesterday against the Nationals.

Then we have the starting pitchers, the Dodgers Brandon McCarthy is in excellent form since his surgery and I expect him to maintain his momentum.

The same cannot be said about the Cardinals pitcher Michael Wacha who matched his shortest outing this season against the Marlins on Sunday.

All things considered I am taking the Dodgers to win and win by at least two runs.

Tigers @ White Sox

I take the White Sox to do themselves justice this evening and if not beat the Tigers, stay very close to them.

The White Sox pitcher Jacob Turner has a huge question mark over his head that is for sure, however, if he performs well, which is very possible, then the odds on the White Sox would tumble.

Turner did have a nightmare debut but he will come on for that experience and I fully expect a better innings tonight.

Tigers Michael Fulmer is clearly in white hot form, he has a 0.83 ERA over his last ten starts, he has a win record of 7-1 and so it is no surprise that the Tigers are the favourites when you compare the pitchers, but as stated above, I expect more from Turner and Fulmer is unlikely to maintain his current form.

I am not saying that the White Sox will win this one, what I am saying is that I do not expect the Tigers to better them by 2 runs or more, if indeed the Tigers win.

Diamondbacks @ Reds

Two sides that are propping up their respective divisions, but it is the Reds that I see coming out on top against the Diamondbacks.

Arizona are on a two game losing streak, they have won just three times in their last ten outings and even though their starting pitcher Archie Bradley is in half decent form at the moment I see very little evidence that a turnaround in fortunes is on the cards.

The Reds are not doing much better but they are 5-5 in their last ten outings and their pitcher Dan Straily is in very good form at this moment in time.

All things considered I am taking the Reds to win this one and to win it comfortably.

Mariners @ Blue Jays

I am taking the Blue Jays to win this one and to win it by at least a couple of runs.

Blue Rays pitcher Marco Estrada is back from a 15 day DL and as long as he is fine then expect a big innings from him, he has been in good form this year and I expect that form to be on show tonight.

Mariners James Paxton is not in good form, he has a ERA of 5.54 over his last six starts and I can see the Blue Jays hitters having a right go at him today.

The Blue Jays are in good shape at the moment, they are on a three game winning streak and I see them extending that to four tonight.

Brann v Aalesund

A little bit of a mismatch here when you look at the respective home and away records of these two.

In league games Brann have won their last six straight home games, they have conceded just one goal in those six games and scored ten.

Aalesund have lost four of their last six away games, drawn one and won one, they have conceded eleven and scored five, in their last two away games they have allowed four goals in each game.

In better words, at home Brann are formidable, away from home Aalesund are vulnerable to a thrashing.

I am taking Brann to win this one and to cover the spread, I really cannot see Aalesund getting anything at all from this match.

Miami Marlins @ Philadelphia Phillies

I am going for a Phillies win this evening and expect them to win by a couple of runs.

Miami pitcher Tom Koehler is not having the best of times, his last four starts have seen an ERA of 7.88 and I am not convinced that he is set to turn the corner.

Phillies pitcher Jerad Eickhoff by comparison is in good form, his last nine outings have him on an ERA of 3.42 and last Saturday he only allowed 2 runs off six innings against the Mets.

Basically a tale of two pitchers, one in form, one not and I am backing the pitcher on form to drive his side to a win.

Phillies to win and to win by at least two runs.

Hearts v Birkirkara

I was slightly surprised by the 0-0 scoreline in the first leg between these two teams, Hearts should have won and I fully expect them to put that right this evening.

I have watched the Maltese side live in Malta, I know Maltese football and their level is far lower than the Scottish Premiership.

Scottish club football is not good I accept that, but it is of a higher standard than Maltese football, this is not guesswork, this opinion is based on me spending 3 years in Malta and watching their football week in week out.

If Hearts play to their level then they will win this one, of course shocks happen, we have seen so many recently, but it would be a huge shock to me if Hearts do not win this one comfortably.

I am taking Hearts to win this and to cover the spread.

Odd v PAS Giannina

Norwegian outfit Odd host Greek side PAS Giannina in the second leg of the Europa league qualifier with PAS taking a 3-0 advantage with them to Norway.

Odd are much better than the 3-0 loss suggests, they also lost at the weekend in their domestic league 2-1 away to Bodo/Glimt and that was another bad defeat for them, they are second in the Norwegian league and they are in that position for a reason, but their last two results have betrayed their true level.

PAS will be looking to sit on their lead, that you can be certain of, they are not going to risk their lead by attacking and leaving themselves exposed at the back, so I see a game with one team attacking and the other defending.

I fully expect Odd to win this one, I doubt they will overcome the three goal deficit, that will take some doing, but I expect them to give it a real go.

I am backing Odd to win this one and to get close to PAS goal supremacy and therefore will take the Norwegian outfit to win and cover the spread.

Odd -1

LA Dodgers @ Washington Nationals

I like the look of the Nationals for this one and will be taking them to get the win and cover the spread.

Dodgers pitcher Julio Urias is not in the best of form and is inconsistent at best, I feel there is more chance of him giving up runs today than containing the Nationals hitters.

Washington pitcher Stephen Strasburg is in great form, he is 13-0 this year and there is no reason to think that this will be the game that he finally loses.

All things considered I am going for the Nats to win this one and win it by at least a couple of runs.

Rangers @ Angels

I am taking the Angels to win this one and to win it by at least two runs.

This one is basically about one pitcher in form and one pitcher not in form.

The Rangers pitcher Martin Perez has given up 17 runs in his last two starts, whatever way you slice it, that is not good.

The Angels Hector Santiago is in good form at present, he has been inconsistent this season, but it seems that he has found his momentum and I expect that to continue this evening.

Take the Angels to win by at least two runs.

Dodgers @ Nationals

I like the look of Washington in this one and am going with them to beat the Dodgers and to beat them with a bit in hand.

The Nationals Gio Gonzalez has a very good record against the Dodgers, over four games he has a 1.73 ERA and I am confident he will maintain that run this evening.

The Dodgers Bud Norris has been pushed up for this one and while he has been consistent since he arrived from Atlanta in a trade he still seems to struggle when up against the Nationals. In April Norris, then with Atlanta, gave up eight runs over 12 innings in two starts, when you compare that with Gonzalez record against the Dodgers you can see the difference.

Bottom line for me is that I take the Nationals to better the Dodgers by at least two runs.

Padres @ Cardinals

I am looking for the Cardinals to deliver for me for the second game running and not only beat the Padres, but to beat the by at least two runs.

This one for me is all about the Cardinals pitcher Carlos Martinez, I fully expect him to be the dominant pitcher today and to put in yet another stellar performance, he is in great form and with the hitters backing him up against the Padres pitcher Colin Rea, I am really confident that the Cardinals will win this one with a bit in hand.

Rea is capable of putting in a good innings but it would be a surprise for me if tonight is the night that he puts in a top performance.

All things considered I am going with the Cardinals to win by 1.5 runs.

Astros @ Athletics

I am backing the Astros to get the better of the A's this evening at the Coliseum.

The Astros pitcher Dallas Keuchel is in great form at the moment, he was gathering momentum going into the break and I see no reason why that will not continue now.

The Athletic pitcher Dillion Overton took a hiding in his last game and he is very vulnerable at this moment in time, he needs to get some solid innings under his belt before I can have any confidence in him.

This one is about the pitchers for me, I see Keuchel getting the better of Overton and my confidence in both of them are at the very opposite, I am very confident in Keuchel and have almost no confidence in Overton.

All things considered I am going for the Astros to win this one and win it comfortably.

Rays @ Rockies

I am taking the Rockies to win this one with something to spare.

The Rockies pitcher Tyler Anderson has not given up more than 3 runs in any of his starts this season, a very good return.

Compare that with Drew Smyly who has a ERA of 5.47, with his recent form being poor and we have a case of one in form pitcher against an out of form pitcher.

All things considered I see the Rockies batters getting the better of Smyly while Anderson will contain the Rays Hitters.

Take the Rockies -1.5

Padres @ Cardinals 

I see the Cardinals winning this one and winning it well.

The Padres Christian Friedrich is in bad form posting a 7.20 ERA over his last three starts and he will have to improve significantly to get the better of the Cardinal batters this evening.

The Cardinals Mike Leake is in far better form than Friedrich, he had a great outing last time out and I do see him maintaining that form.

We have one pitcher in bad form against one pitcher in great form and that has lead me to believe that the Cardinals will win this one and win it in a convincing manner.

Take the Cardinals -1.5

Mets @ Cubs 

I am taking the Cubs to take care of the Mets this evening and grab the win.

Not only do I believe that the Cubs will win but I am fairly confident they will cover the spread as well.

The Cubs Jon Lester does well at home, yes he had a bad game against the Mets last time out, but for me that was a blip unlikely to be repeated today, he has a 2.32 ERA at home and I fully expect him to put in a good game.

Steven Matz is very capable, but he is also vulnerable and I simply do not have the confidence in him to withstand the Cubs batters, I have more confidence in Lester than I do Matz and that is the deciding factor for me.

All things considered I am going for the Cubs to win by at least 2 runs.

Blue Jays @ Athletics

I like the look of the A's in this one and am going for them to get the win, sweep the Blue Jays and cover the spread.

Two good pitchers on display today and an entertaining battle awaits us, however I feel that the Oakland pitcher Rich Hill has the edge on Blue Jays pitcher J.A Happ, and I also feel that the Oakland batters are in better current form.

Hill will be looking to showcase his skills as he is soon to become a free agent and a big game is expected from him, Happ is also very capable of putting in a stellar performance, but I just do not see him having the same motivation in comparison to Hill

Prior to this series all the stats pointed to a Blue Jays dominance, but the A's are showing that they intend to push harder in the second half then the first half of the season and will hope that if they can sweep the Blue Jays that it will start the momentum they have been lacking this season.

I am going for an Oakland win and for them to win by a couple.

Rockies @ Braves

This pick may seem a strange one considering the odds but this is all about the pitchers for me and I am fairly confident that Atlanta will not only win but win by a couple of runs at least.

I accept that Atlanta are woeful at home, there is no getting away from that, but in Julio Teheran they have a fantastic pitcher and I am expecting a top innings from him today, he is over his thigh infection which was the cause for his recent poor outings.

The Rockies turn to Jon Gray and the truth is that he is not in the same bracket as Teheran, he is doing better, but his record this season has not been good, he may have broken his streak of giving up home runs but there is every chance that was just a blip, lets see.

It may be a stretch going for the Braves to give up 1.5 runs and the odds show that to be the case, but I feel good about this one. 

All things considered I am going for Atlanta -1.5 runs

Orioles @ Rays

I am taking Baltimore to win this one and win it comfortably by at least a couple of runs.

The stats speak for themselves, The Rays are on a seven game losing streak while the Orioles are on a 3 game winning streak.

I have also come round to liking Chris Tillman a little more recently and have more confidence in him pitching a good game than I do in the Rays Matt Moore.

Considering the difference in their present form and the pitchers on display I really do fancy Baltimore to win this one and cover the spread and that will be my pick.

Baltimore -1.5

Arizona @ San Francisco

I like the look of the Giants in this one and will be backing them to get the win this evening.

I really like the Giants pitcher Madison Bumgarner and I can see him putting in a stellar performance this evening.

Arizona's Archie Bradley is not in good form, he has a 5.73 ERA against San Francisco and I can see the Giants batters taking him on big time.

All things considered I see the Giants batters putting on the runs and Bumgarner containing the Arizona hitters and all this points to a convincing San Francisco win.

All things considered the Giants to win by at least two runs.

New York RB v Portland Timbers

A few weeks ago it would have been easy to pick the Red Bulls to come out on top in this match up, that is no longer the case.

The Red Bulls form is dipping while Portland are finally starting to find some momentum.

The Red Bulls have not won in their last three MLS fixtures, albeit they were on the road each time, but not winning can become a habit just as winning can.

The Timbers are on a six match unbeaten run in MLS, they have won their last three home games and drawn their last three road games, they are in good form and will be confident they will be able to come away from this game with at least a point.

I share that confidence and will be backing Portland to cover the spread.

Lillestrøm v Stabæk

A match up between two fairly poor teams and for me this was a case of which team was the poorest and most likely to lose and that without doubt is Stabaek.

Stabaek have won just once on the road all season and have lost on five occasions, they are not what one would describe as formidable on the road.

Lillestrom are not the greatest team at home either, however they have only lost twice at their own stadium in seven games, which is not too bad for a mediocre outfit.

Neither team is in good form either, but the home form of Lillextrom is simply better than the away form of Stabaek and there is nothing to indicate that will change in this particular game, therefore I am going to confidently back Lillestrom to get the better of Stabaek today

Odd v Aalesund

Very hard to see anything other than a clear home win today

Odd are second in the table, have lost just once at their home ground all season and are in very good form at the moment, collecting 10 points from 12 in their last four league games.

Aalesund are fourth from bottom, have won just once away all season and are in very poor form, winning just once in their last seven league games.

The spread has been set quite high, but I am confident that Odd can cover it, I fully expect them to win this game and it is more probable for me that they will win by at least 2 goals than not.

Kalmar v AIK

An interesting match up between two decent sides and it is the away side that I can see collecting all three points.

AIK have played on the road six times this season wining on four occasions, that is a 66% win rate, a decent return for any team in almost any league.

Kalmar have a 2-2-2 record at home, as mixed a record as you can get, but it must be said, winning just twice at home is nothing to write home about.

AIK are the team in far better form, in fact, over the last six games only Malmo have a better league record than AIK.

Kalmar will not be walkovers, but I am more confident in this game either being a draw or a win for AIK than a win for Kalmar and will be taking AIK to cover the spread.

Tigers @ Blue Jays

It is really hard to go against Toronto tonight and I am not going to try.

Toronto are smashing it at the moment, they have won their last six games and five of those games have been by at least 2 runs, that is a statistic that is hard to ignore.

Detroit lost to Toronto last night, but it was just by the single run, making the Tigers the only side in Toronto's six game winning streak to not lose by 2 runs or more, but they still lost and just because they were within one run last night does not mean they will be tonight.

Detroit will have to play out of their skin to stop the Blue Rays tonight but unfortunately for them I do not feel that their pitcher Mike Pelfrey is the man to do that, he is in half decent form I agree, but against this Toronto outfit I see him struggling.

All things considered I am going for the Blue Rays to win this by at least 2 runs.

Start v Bodo/Glimt

A tricky game involving the bottom side against the 4th from bottom side in the Norwegian Eliteserien today.

Start have not won at home this season, they have drawn three time and lost four at their own stadium, they are on just six points out of a possible 42, in better words they are one poor team.

Bodo/Glimt are not that much better, they have massed just six points more than Start, they have managed one win and one draw on the road but lost their other four games.

However, there are clues that can help us determine the most probable winner of this game.

The Norwegian league has just returned from a five week break and on these occasions some teams return from a break a completely different side and even though they have only played one game a piece since the resumption one can already see a difference in one of the sides but not the other.

Start came back and lost, they basically carried on where they left off, it was an away game and it was against one of the top 6 sides, but it was a loss nonetheless.

Bodo/Glimt resumed their season with a home draw, but that home draw was against the league leaders Rosenborg, a very good result.

That tells me that Bodo/Glimt have come back in a positive state of mind, they can kick on from that result against Norway's top team, whereas Start are basically the same side they were before the break, they cannot have much confidence and it is hard to see them grabbing their first home win of the season.

All things considered I am going for Bodo/Glimt to cover the spread

Colarado Rapids v Portland Timbers

On paper you would have to go for a Colarado win, but I am not so sure and fancy Portland to cover the spread on this one.

I was disappointed with Portland this season, they are better than their early season results have shown, but the signs are that they are finally starting to turn the corner.

In the MLS Portland are now unbeaten in their last five games, that comes after an appalling start to the season and I do now expect them to carry on with their upturn in form, they certainly have momentum.

Colorado are formidable at home, that I accept, they have won 7 from 8 and are unbeaten in their last 11 MLS games home and away, they really are in good form, there is no getting away from that and if they were playing the Portland team from early on in the season then this would be an easy win, thing is this though, they are not playing that Portland, they are playing a Portland that has bounced back to form and that changes everything.

A Portland on form is well capable of matching Colorado and their head to heads prove that, in fact last time these two teams met Portland won 4-1.

I am taking Portland to cover the spread on this one with a 0.5 goal start.

France v Iceland

Iceland have been costly for me so far but I am very confident that their luck will finally run out and that their fantastic run will come to a glorious end.

Iceland have been lucky, they beat a terrible England side, an England side that performed well below their abilities and I just cannot see France performing anywhere near as bad as what England did.

As long as France play to form they will win this game, it is just a matter of how many goals they win by and I am confident that it will be by at least two.

Iceland have done well to get this far, but they are not Wales, they do not have a sprinkling of world class players and I simply cannot see them getting anything from this game.

France -1

Angels @ Red Sox

I am taking the Red Sox to win this one by at least two runs this evening.

The reasoning is that the Angels pitcher Hector Santiago is very unreliable and can easily give up a bag full of runs.

The Red Sox starter Clay Buchholz is far more reliable as long as he can put in a decent first innings, if he does that then I expect the Red Sox to win this one fairly easily.

Even if Buchholz gives up runs in the first innings I am still confident that the Boston batters will feast on Santiago.

Boston -1.5 runs

England v Iceland

England and Iceland play for the right to face France in the quarter finals and it is England that I expect to see win and line up against the host nation.

England have been impotent in front of goal, however, they have top scorers in their squad and it really is only a matter of time before they make that breakthrough and put a team to the sword and there is a good chance it will be Iceland.

Iceland have done well to get to this stage, but they really are not on the same level as England, they will spend most of the game defending and being on the back foot, I really do not see them getting anything from this game, they simply are not good enough.

Not only do I expect England to win, I expect them to win by at least 2 goals.

For me, this is a mismatch and I will be backing England to cover the spread.

Hungary v Belgium

The Hungarians have done well to date but I feel they have gone as far as they can go, they were lucky against a very poor Portuguese team scoring deflected goals and I simply do not see them getting that lucky today.

Belgium are a top top team, certainly a lot better than Portugal and they will not make the same mistakes that the Portuguese did against the Hungarians.

Belgium are getting better, they are now starting to operate more like a team than individuals and they really can win this tournament outright.

Hungary have been entertaining, but their time is up

Belgium to win and cover spread.

Germany v Slovakia

Another tricky game but the Germans should really come out on top and I am confident that is exactly what will happen.

The spread has been set at one goal and the Germans have the team to overcome that, The Slovaks are an OK side but they showed against England that they offer very little other 11 men behind the ball when up against a top team.

The difference this time is that while England did not know how to break the Slovak down, the Germans do and once they do the Slovaks will have to come out and attack, which leaves them open to more German attacks.

I see nothing but a German win and by more than one goal.

France v Republic of Ireland

Very tricky one, but I fear that the Republic of Ireland will lose this one.

It is easy to get carried away with their win over Italy, but that was a weakened Italian team and even their A team is not much better, I backed Ireland in that game for those specific reasons, this game is very different.

France are at home, they have some great players and they still have yet to click together, if they do today then they will beat Ireland fairly easy, if they do not click today they will beat them narrowly, but win they will.

Ireland have heart and passion but the French have home advantage and better players.

France to win and cover the spread

Vitoria @ Gremio

The spread has been set quite high for this one but I am confident that Gremio have enough about then to both beat Vitoria and to cover the spread.

Gremio have won all their home games so far this season in Serie A, they have won by two goals twice, they sit third in the table, have form and momentum, now lets look at Vitoria.

They sit fifth from bottom in Serie A, they have collected just two points from a possible 15 on the road and have lost two of their three away losses by two goals or more.

Basically what we have here is a formidable home side against a weak away side, the gulf in class between these two is very evident and while the spread of 1.5 goals is quite high, this is one game were I am confident that it will be covered.

I take Gemio -1.5 goals

Hungary v Portugal

Portugal simply have to win this and despite their weak performances so far I do expect them to emerge the winners.

Portugal are a one man team, there is no way of avoiding that fact, they are a bunch of average players all focused on supplying one man, that has been their undoing for years now and I do not expect them to get anywhere near the final, but they are good enough to beat the Hungarians, who themselves have defied expectations.

But the truth is that the Hungarians are a poor team, they have done well to date, there is no denying that but even an unbalanced mentally weak Portugal side reliant on one man is enough to inflict a defeat on the Magyars.

All things considered I am taking Portugal to win this one, to cover the spread and qualify.

Ukraine v Poland

Poland should really emerge the victors in this Group C game at the Stade Velodrome in Marseille later today.

Ukraine were hopeless against Northern Ireland and surely cannot play worse, but even if they manage to improve on that dismal performance I do not see it being enough against a very well organised Poland.

Poland showed against Germany what they are capable of and if they put in that sort of performance again today they will win.

Ukraine would have to win and hope Northern Ireland get thrashed against Germany to claim third and hold an outside chance of making the next round, in better words they are almost certainly out and I can see their heads dropping if the Poles grab the first goal.

Poland have momentum and in Robert Lewandowski they have one of the best strikers in the world and I am very confident that once the dust settles Poland will have won this game.

Northern Ireland v Germany

Northern Ireland have done really well so far, their win over Ukraine was brilliant and they are full of confidence, but I am sad to say that I believe they have reached their limits and will find Germany one step too far.

The Germans took some stick from the German media and fans for drawing against Poland and they will be looking to get back to winning ways today, they have to really, otherwise a rot could set in that the world champions will find difficult to get out of.

The truth is that Germany are world champions and Northern Ireland are very limited, they may be organised and have a gritty determination, but they are up against one of the best football teams on the planet and they will find that out the hard way later today.

Whatever way I look at this, I see a convincing German win and fully expect them to cover the spread.

Argentina v Venezuela

This game looks a bit of a mismatch and come the final whistle I expect the result to bare that out.

Argentina are a genuine world class team, Venezuela are not, the Argentine's cruised into this round while Venezuela were rather fortunate.

Whatever way I look at this game I cannot see anything other than a convincing Argentine win, they simply have far too many world class players for the Venezuelans to cope with.

The spread has been set quite high but I expect the Argentine's to cover it and probably easily.

Take Argentina -1.5 goals

White Sox @ Indians

I like the look of the Indians in this match up to cover the spread and beat the White Sox by at least a couple of runs.

This game is a tale of two pitchers, one in red hot form and one not and that is what has swung it for me.

Cleveland start with Danny Salazar, who has an impressive record and a ERA of just 2.19, while Chicago start with James Shields who has an ERA of 5.45, the difference is clear to see, but it is not just bare stats that make this an easy pick for me, Salazar hardly ever gives up runs while Shields is hardly economical and that is being polite.

All things considered I am going for the Indians to win this by at least 2 runs and cover the spread.

Angels @ Athletics

It is hard to see Oakland getting anything out of this game and I take the Angels to not only win but to win by at least a couple of runs and cover the spread.

The Angels have dominated the A's for a while now at the Coliseum winning 5 straight and that should extend to 6 on the bounce with Matt Shoemaker pitching for the Angels this evening, he is in great form at the moment and shows no sign of a dip, he has given up just 8 runs in his last 38 1/3 innings and whatever way you look at it, that is some run.

The A's start with Kendall Graveman and his form is simply not comparable, over his last 39 innings he has given up 26 runs, the difference with Shoemaker is there for all to see.

All things considered I am taking the Angels -1.5 runs

Peru v Colombia

I take Colombia to win this game, I simply do not rate Peru and do not think they are good enough to be competitive.

I have seen all the Copa America games and I saw Peru beat Brazil, they were very very lucky, they scored with a handball, it was a disgraceful decision to award them the goal and were lucky to be playing a Brazilian side that lacked leadership and vision.

The Peruvians only managed to beat Haiti 1-0 and that result alone tells you the level of their game, Haiti are not a good team by any stretch of the imagination, they did do well against Ecuador it must be said, however, that was their high point, do not be fooled by the win over Brazil, play that game another 10 times and they would lose every time.

Colombia are far better than Peru, that is the reality, they had already qualified when they lost to Costa Rica and they showed against the USA in the opening game how clinical they can be, they do their jobs efficiently and I expect that to be the case this evening.

I am very confident that Colombia will win this game and that they will cover the spread.

Spain v Turkey

I cannot see anything other than a Spain win today and I will be backing the Spanish to win this game convincingly.

Turkey were outplayed against Croatia and their limitations at this level were exposed for all to see, the fact that they struggled against the Croatians does not bode well for them today against Spain.

Spain should have won by more against the Czech Republic, they really made hard work of the task, the Czechs did defend in numbers but for a team of Spain's abilities it was a performance that could only be considered sub standard, yet they still won.

The spread has been set high, but I am very confident that the Spanish have enough about them to win this game by at least a couple of goals.

USA V Ecuador

This is a huge game for USA, win and they will be the semi final of Copa America and I believe that is exactly what will happen.

Ecuador are a good side, it would be foolish to think that this game will be easy for USA, it will not, the Ecuadorians deserve their place in the quarter finals, but I think they have gone as far as they can now.

The USA have one huge advantage and that is home advantage, that makes a difference and with the crowd behind them I do expect Jurgen Klinsmann's men to deliver at CenturyLink field this evening.

I take the USA to win on the spreads.

Ukraine v Northern Ireland

It really would be nice to see Northern Ireland claim the win today, but I really cannot see that happening and take Ukraine to come out on top.

Northern Ireland are probably the worst team in the competition, they did very well to make this tournament and they are definitely a plucky outfit, but they are very limited and despite being very organised, they are handicapped by their limitations.

Ukraine are not exactly world beaters I admit and it would not be the greatest shock in the world if Northern Ireland did get a result against them, but I simply do not see that happening, they did well against Germany despite losing 2-0 and I really cannot see anything other than a Ukraine win today.

The spread is set quite high but I am confident that Ukraine will overcome it.

Take Ukraine -1

Dodgers @ Diamondbacks

I like the look of Arizona on the spread here, I do not see the LA Dodgers winning this one by 2 runs or more, there is just too many variables that cannot be ignored.

For starters the difference in the pitchers is not as big as it first appears, especially at Chase Field where Clayton Kershaw, the Dodgers pitcher, has a poor record.

Arizona's Patrick Corbin has a fairly decent record against LA and is capable of putting in another decent performance against them tonight.

All things considered I am happy to go with Arizona +1.5 runs

Romania v Switzerland

I like the look of the Romanians in this game and take them to get the better of the Swiss.

I thought the Swiss were very lucky against 10 man Albania in their opening game and they did not convince me that they are anything special, in fact my opinion of them fell somewhat, they were simply not as good as I thought they were.

Romania I thought did themselves proud against the French, that was a hell of a tough assignment and even though they lost I felt they did quite well.

The Swiss would probably be happy with a draw in this game and the truth is I do not see them doing any better than that at best.

I am taking Romania on the spreads.

Russia v Slovakia

Russia and Slovakia go head to head in the second game of group B for these two sides, both are desperate for the win and both will see this game as their best chance to register a win.

The Russians did not convince me at all when they salvaged a draw against England, they were outplayed throughout the game and showed that they are a very average side.

Slovakia were unfortunate against Wales and while they are not any sort of world beaters, they are not as inferior to the Russians as the odds would have you believe.

I see the Slovakian's putting up a good show and matching the Russians and I take them to cover the spread today.

Chile v Panama

I cannot see anything but a Chile win here and a convincing one at that.

Chile were both very lucky and very unlucky in their 2-1 win over Bolivia, they were very unlucky because they should have won the game easily, they had more than enough chances and on any other day would have racked up a loadl of goals, they were very lucky being awarded a dubious penalty in the last seconds of the game to grab the win.

Panama are simply not in the same class as Chile, they were thumped by Argentina and were lucky to beat Bolivia and if Chile play to form then Panama will spend the evening in their own half defending.

Chile are due a comprehensive win, they owe their fans one and they deserve a change in luck, I am very confident that will happen tonight, they may only need a draw but having watched what happened to Brazil I cannot see them being complacent and fully expect them to go all out for the win.

I see Chile winning this one easily and will be taking them to cover the spread.

Austria v Hungary

The odds suggest that this is close to being a walkover for the Austrians, but I am not convinced of that.

The Austrians did qualify in style but their qualification group was hardly the strongest and since then their pre tournament games have not been overwhelming, they are not what can be considered a top class side.

The Hungarians are definitely not a top class side, but neither are they minnows like San Marino or some other tiny footballing nation, they qualified the hard way via the play offs and their qualification group was arguably no easier than the Austrians.

I will not go as far as taking the Hungarians on the money line, but I do believe they are very good value on the spreads and that will be my pick.

Take Hungary +0.5

Germany vs Ukraine

Germany and Ukraine go head-to-head in their opening game of the European Championships, with the reigning world champions Germany expected to win by at least 2 goals.

Germany ended a turbulent qualification period top of their group, above close rivals Poland, but have been inconsistent during recent friendlies, losing three of their five matches. However, Die Mannschaft faced strong opponents in each, and will be boosted after a comprehensive 4-1 win over Italy. The Germans have always had poor results in preparation for competitions, and after their dominating performance in Brazil two years ago, most would suggest the country are among favourites to lift the European trophy in France.  Although Thomas Muller has yet to score in the European Championships, the Bayern Munich striker scored nine times in qualifying and will be certainly be a considerable threat to their opponents.

Ukraine were less convincing in the preliminary stages, having to qualify for the tournament by winning their play-off fixture against Slovenia. The country has only previously featured in the Euros as hosts, and lack high-level experience compared to their German counterparts. Head coach Mykhaylo Fomenko is expected to field an attacking side, including Andriy Yarmolenko and Viktor Kovalenko, though their defence will not be strong enough and mainly consists of Ukrainian league players. Ukraine recently conceded 3 times against Romania, and Germany will certainly be able to take advantage of any frailties in the back-line.

With a strong attacking setup and significant tournament experience, I predict that Germany will beat Ukraine by at least 2 goals at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy this evening.

Wales vs Slovakia

Wales and Slovakia travel to the Stade Matmut-Atlantique in Bordeaux for the opening Group B match of the Euros, with the Welsh predicted to do well in their opening game.

Wales are featuring in their second-ever major tournament, previously appearing in the 1958 World Cup, and will be eager to provide an excellent showing for their supporters. The Dragons lost just once during qualifying, a 2-0 away defeat to Bosnia-Herzegovina, and conceded only four goals throughout. Wales will be boosted by fitness reports, with key players Gareth Bale, Joe Allen, Joe Ledley and Hal Robson-Kanu all returning from injury. At near-full strength, Chris Coleman’s side should possess more than enough talent to beat their opponents.

Slovakia are also playing in the Euros for the first time, though their squad appears less than convincing on paper. The country’s all-time top goalscorer Robert Vittek is absent from the team due to injury, while captain Martin Skrtel has endured a poor individual season at Liverpool. Jan Kozak’s team rely heavily on Napoli’s Marek Hamsik for their attacking play, with the Napoli midfielder scoring 5 goals in qualifying, but lack any threat elsewhere. If Hamsik is kept in check by Wales, it’s difficult to see Slovakia producing anything of note.

Overall, I predict that Wales will make a return to tournament football with a victory over Slovakia this afternoon, however, I will not be taking them on the money line.

Because this is their first game in a major tournament in over 50 years there is a chance they may succumb to the occasion, so may Slovakia for that matter, but it is an element I cannot ignore.

Therefore I am taking Wales on the spread and in the event they draw then at least the stake is returned, it is a safety net that I feel is best taken for this game because of the circumstances surrounding it.

Chile vs Bolivia

Chile and Bolivia face one another at the Gillette Stadium for their second Group D fixture, and while the Chileans should win, I cannot see Bolivia losing heavily as the spread suggests.

Despite being the current Copa America champions, Chile have been in poor form over recent months. La Roja’s results have included losses to Jamaica and Mexico, as well as defeat in their opening match of the competition against Argentina. However, the Chileans did demonstrate some excellent football on Monday, and will be hoping to restore confidence with a victory over minnows Bolivia. Juan Antonio Pizzi’s team have only lost 1 of their 11 encounters with Bolivia, and know that they will need all the points to retain a chance of progressing from the group.

Although Bolivia are considered one of the lowest-ranked teams in this year’s competition, the national team are unlikely to suffer a heavy loss this evening. As with their opponents, La Verde have also lost 5 of their previous 6 matches, and are almost certainly going to lose once more to Chile. It’s difficult to predict a significant goal margin between the two sides though, with the majority of Bolivia’s losses by no more than a couple of goals. Julio Cesar Baldivieso’s squad may not have much threat up front, but have improved their defensive discipline of late.

Overall, we expect that Chile will probably claim the victory today, but Bolivia will have a 2 goal start on the spread and that for me is just too high, therefore I am taking Bolivia to cover the spread..

France vs Romania

France will open the European Championships with their Group A match against Romania this evening, and although Les Bleus may win, we predict that Romania will not lose by 2 goals or more.

As the tournament hosts, France automatically qualified without the need to play any competitive fixtures. However, the country played friendly matches against countries in Group I, including the likes of Portugal and Denmark, and would have topped the standings based on their results. Les Bleus have been on an impressive run of form, winning 9 of their previous 10 games, with their only loss coming from England shortly after the Paris terror attacks. However, Didier Deschamps’ squad have encountered some difficulties recently, labouring in their victories over the Netherlands, Russia and Cameroon, and winning each by just a single goal margin.

Relative minnows Romania qualified for a major tournament for the first time in 8 years, having previously featured in Euro 2008 where they finished bottom of the group. The Tricolorii went undefeated in qualification stages, earning 5 wins and 5 draws, suggesting they won’t be pushovers this time around. Romania conceded the fewest number of goals of any team during that period, just 2 goals conceded in the 10 fixtures, and could frustrate a French attack that includes inconsistent striker Olivier Giroud. Despite being underdogs for the match, Anghel Iordănescu’s side were able to draw in recent friendlies against Italy and Spain, and even in defeat are unlikely to be humiliated tonight.

In summary, my prediction is that while France could take the victory and all three points, Romania will not lose by 2 goals or more and will therefore cover the spread.

Uruguay v Venezuela

It is hard to see this game ending in anything other than a Uruguay win.

Both these teams first games involved red cards and it was very interesting to see how the games evolved once the red cards had been issued.

Venezuela beat 10 man Jamaica, but they made such hard work of it, when I was watching the game it was hard to know who was really down to ten men, Jamaica were very unlucky to lose that game and Venezuela were very lucky to claim the three points.

Uruguay were down to ten men for large parts of their game against Mexico and managed to claw themselves back into the game a minute after Mexico themselves were reduced to ten men, Mexico won the game with two late goals in the 85th minute and injury time, but the Uruguayans showed a great deal of character in their loss, certainly a lot more than what today's opponents Venezuela showed in their win over Jamaica.

Uruguay will be without Luis Suarez and that is a hit, seems he may end up missing the entire tournament, but they have enough talent up front in Cavani to be able to cope without the Barcelona maestro.

Bottom line is this, Uruguay showed far more in defeat than Venezuela did in victory in their respective opening games and I do not see the Venezuelans improving, whereas I do see Uruguay putting in another good performance.

I see Uruguay winning this game and winning it comfortably, I am very confident they can cover the fairly high spread of one goal and win this game by at least a couple.

Colombia vs Paraguay

Colombia and Paraguay travel to the Rose Bowl this evening for their second Group A fixture in the Copa America, with the Colombians considered favourites to claim the win.

Colombia entered the tournament strongly on the back of three consecutive wins, including their friendly preparation match against Haiti. The team continued by beating the hosts of the Copa America Centenario, the United States, in a convincing 2-0 victory to almost certainly guarantee their chances of reaching the group stages. Colombia’s star player James Rodriguez was able to begin his tournament with confidence, registering on the score sheet in the opening game and expected to carry his team to the latter stages. Currently ranked 3rd in the world by FIFA rankings, Jose Pekerman’s squad should have more than enough quality to easily overcome their opponents. 

Paraguay cannot be deemed a threat to the Colombians after a particularly poor showing against Costa Rica at the weekend. La Albirroja managed just a single shot on target in the ninety minutes, despite relatively decent attacking talent, such as AS Roma striker Juan Iturbe. Paraguay lost their last encounter against the Colombians, and all the signs indicate that they will be defeated once again.

In summary, Group A leaders Colombia will be expected to claim all three points over Paraguay this evening, ensuring their place in the knock out stages.

Argentina vs Chile

Argentina clash with Chile in the one of the highest-profile matches of the group stage of the Copa America, with Argentina predicted to claim the victory.

Argentina have enjoyed excellent international results of late, reaching two consecutive tournament finals. La Albiceleste are currently unbeaten in their past six games, crucially including a 2-1 victory over Chile in World Cup qualifiers during March. Although the team will not start with talismanic forward Lionel Messi, who is carrying a back injury, there is plenty of world class talent in the squad. Napoli's Gonzalo Higuain may have been unimpressive in past appearances for his country, but has enjoyed a record-breaking Serie A campaign with Napoli, and should be able to take over goalscoring responsibilities. Tata Martino’s side will also be incentivised to earn a win as revenge for last year’s Copa America final, missing out on the trophy after penalties.

While Chile are the reigning Copa America champions, the team enter the Centenario edition of the competition in poor form. La Roja have lost four of their past five games, notably including a humiliating defeat to Jamaica last month. The Chilean squad features a number of young and inexperienced defensive options, while attacking stars, particularly Arsenal’s Alexis Sanchez, have been inconsistent recently. It appears highly unlikely that Juan Antonio Pizzi’s side will be able to overcome Argentina again, and will certainly be defeated in their opening game.

Overall, I expect Argentina to be too strong for their opponents to handle, beating Chile at the Levi’s Stadium this evening.

Internacional @ Vitoria

Vitoria welcome Internacional to the Barradão in their Brazilian Serie A fixture, with the visitors predicted to not lose the fixture this afternoon.

Vitoria have had mixed fortunes in their start to the season, currently down at 16th in the league standings. Although their travels leave much to be desired, the newly-promoted team are unbeaten at home, including an important 3-2 victory against league leaders Corinthians; their only win so far in the campaign. However, Vágner Mancini’s squad have been struggling since then, and were beaten 1-0 by Flamengo on Friday. Vitoria have the potential to grind out a draw, but the club appear unlikely to have enough to secure another three points against high-flying Internacional.

Visitors Internacional enter the fixture with plenty of confidence and unbeaten in their first five matches of the season. Inter are currently 2nd in the league, behind Corinthians on goal difference with a game to spare, and a positive result at the Barradão would place them in pole position. Argel Fucks’ side have won each match by a one goal margin, offering Vitoria the possibility of defending for a draw, though there is no chance of Inter losing. The team have conceded just a single goal so far this season, and are unlikely to slip to defeat.

Overall, I predict that Internacional’s impressive record and defence will be enough to avoid defeat today, most probably winning and with a draw the worst scenario.

Haiti vs Peru

Haiti clash with Peru at the CenturyLink Field for the opening Group B match of the Copa America, with the Peruvians expected to comfortably claim victory by at least two goals.

Ahead of the game, Peru are considered the favourites based upon their recent progress in tournaments, achieving 3rd ahead of Paraguay in last year’s Copa America. Los Incas put their World Cup qualifying struggled behind them with excellent friendly victories over Trinidad and Tobago and El Salvador, and will be confident of repeating the results against the competition’s lowest-ranked country. Ricardo Gareco has decided to field a young squad that will be eager to prove themselves, knowing that a victory will be required if they are to have a chance to qualify in a group containing both Brazil and Ecuador.

The Haitian national team enter the fixture with little experience in competitions, aside from the local Caribbean Cup. Les Grenadiers have a poor record against higher-ranked opponents, losing three of their past five games, including last weekend’s friendly against Colombia. The highest goal-scorer in the current Haiti squad is Kervens Belfort with just 11 international goals, and Patrice Neveu are unlikely to pose much of a threat to teams in their Copa America debut.

I predict that Peru will easily win their opening match against minnows Haiti by a margin of at least two goals.

Paraguay vs Costa Rica

The Copa America Group A fixtures continue this afternoon, with Costa Rica expected to not lose against Paraguay at the Orlando Citrus Bowl Stadium.

Costa Rica have emerged as an impressive side in global football over recent years, including reaching the quarter-final stage of the 2014 World Cup. The team have lost just two of their past ten international fixtures, capping off preparation for the tournament with a 2-1 victory over Venezuela. While both countries are considered underdogs to progress, Oscar Ramirez’s side are arguably stronger than their opponents, and will be keen to capitalise on the USA’s defeat yesterday.

Although Paraguay are boosted by the absence of Costa Rica’s star goalkeeper Keylor Navas due to injury, Los Albirroja have suffered their own problems. The Paraguayan team have regularly struggled in attack, averaging less than one goal in their past ten games, and will sorely miss record goal-scorer Roque Santa Cruz. Replacement Nelson Valdez has scored just 13 times in 75 international appearances, and will be unlikely to take advantage of the Costa Rican injury crisis. Ramon Diaz's side have won only two of their games since crashing out of the Copa America last year, and it's difficult to see an improvement happening today.

Based on their recent form and expected line-ups, I do not see Costa Rica losing this match, and I predict that Costa Rica will cover the spread.

AFC Wimbledon vs Plymouth Argyle

AFC Wimbledon and Plymouth Argyle travel to Wembley Stadium for the League Two play-off final this afternoon, and I predict that Wimbledon will not be in a losing position after 90 minutes.

Despite finishing 7th place in the League Two table, Wimbledon enter the fixture on an excellent run of form. The Dons have lost just one of their last 10 matches, including a narrow 3-2 aggregate victory over rated Accrington Stanley. Neal Ardley’s squad won 2-1 in the previous fixture against Plymouth at Home Park, proving they’re capable of surpassing their opponents away from home. Wimbledon have never played a competitive fixture at Wembley before, and will be aiming to give the supporters plenty to cheer about as they continue their remarkable rise through the leagues.

Although Plymouth Argyle have beaten Wimbledon twice in all competitions this season, it’s difficult to see them finishing off the game within 90 minutes. The Pilgrims have faltered slightly in recent weeks, with an unconvincing win over Portsmouth earning their place in the play-off final. Derek Adams’ side have struggled to pick up points against teams in the top half of the table this season, and will most likely encounter difficulties against the Dons.

In summary, I expect Wimbledon to either win the match outright or take it to extra time, and cannot see the Dons losing after 90 minutes.

Portland Timbers @ Chicago Fire

Eastern Conference hosts the Western Conference as Chicago Fire welcome Portland Timbers this afternoon, with the visitors predicted to either win or draw the match.

Chicago Fire have been disappointing throughout the season so far, currently bottom of the MLS Eastern Conference standings. Veljko Paunovic’s squad have won just 2 matches of the current campaign, only narrowly edging out fellow strugglers Houston Dynamo last weekend. The Fire have scored just 9 goals in 11 games, the lowest in either division, and cannot be considered to pose too much of a threat to their opponents today.

Visitors Portland Timbers also recently ended a 3 match losing streak, emphatically beating rivals Vancouver Whitecaps 4-2 on Sunday. The Timbers have encountered difficulties on the road, but have already faced some of the strongest teams over the past month, and can take some confidence from their positive attacking performances. Caleb Porter’s side have never lost against Chicago, winning 4 of their 6 matches since 2011, and are expected to take at least a share of the points at the Toyota Park once again. 

I cannot see Chicago Fire winning this match due to their disappointing showing this season, and predict that Portland Timbers will either draw or win the match.

Nurnburg V Eintracht Frankfurt

Second leg of the play off in Germany today between Bundesliga outfit Eintracht Frankfurt and Bundesliga 2 side Nurnburg.

These two are playing for the right to play in the top German league next season, Frankfurt finished third bottom in the top league, while Nurnburg finished third in the second division.

The first leg finished 1-1 in Frankfurt and this has set up an enticing second leg with all to play for.

Frankfurt blew the chance to leave their home ground with an advantage and face an uphill struggle to maintain their presence in the top division.

Nurnburg are quite formidable at home, they lost just the once all season on their home ground and will be confident that they can get the better of a very weak Frankfurt side.

Frankfurt lost 11 from 17 on the road and in their last ten games away they lost 8 times, they are not a team to be confident about when travelling.

Nurnburg have the exact opposite figures over their last 10 home games, winning on 8 occasions.

Now, it must be noted that Frankfurt were playing teams of a higher standard, but the first leg showed that Nurnburg have more about them, they certainly have the momentum, something that Frankfurt clearly lack.

For me this is a game that I cannot see Nurnburg losing and I will be taking them to cover the spread.

Atletico Tucuman  @ Newell’s Old Boys vs 

Newell’s Old Boys will host high-flying Atletico Tucuman at the Estadio Marcelo Bielsa this afternoon, with the home team predicted to avoid defeat in their important Argentine Primera Division match.

Newell’s started the season poorly, losing 4 of their first 6 league matches, but have been slowly gaining some consistency. The team have lost only 1 of their 7 home league fixtures at the Estadio Marcelo Bielsa so far, and will have gained some confidence after emphatically winning their last match 5-2 against Sansinema in the Argentina Cup. Supporters should be confident that they will manage to take at least a share of the spoils this afternoon, using the home advantage to prevent another loss.

Although visitors Atletico Tucuman are enjoying 3rd place in the league standings at the moment, Juan Manuel Azconzabal’s squad have encountered some difficulties on their travels, picking up just 2 wins in 7 attempts. Their most recent away match ended 1-1 against Temperley, a side just one position above today’s opponents Newell’s Old Boys, and it would appear doubtful that Atletico have enough to take all the points.

My prediction is that Newell’s Old Boys will not lose against Atletico Tucuman today, managing to either secure a win or at worst, a draw with their opponents.

Brann @ Molde

Molde welcome Brann this afternoon for an important Norwegian Tippeligaen fixture, with the hosts expected to comfortably win.

Hosts Molde enter the match as overwhelming favourites, undefeated at the Aker Stadion this season with 4 wins in their previous 5 home games. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side boast the most prolific attack in the Norwegian league, averaging 2 goals per match, and supporters should be confident of repeating the same result today against Brann. Molde are currently 3rd in the league standings, though a strong result could see them rise above 2nd-place Odd on goal difference, which will be a definite incentive after losing to them 2-0 earlier in the week.

Newly promoted Brann have been defying expectations during their first season returning to the top division, but cannot be considered winners for this fixture. The team have lost 3 of their last 4 matches on the road, and average less than 1 goal scored per game. Lars Arne Nilsen’s squad lack the attacking threat required to compete with the strong Molde side, and will most likely be easily overwhelmed once more.

We predict that the home side will be able to take all the points in style for this afternoon league fixture, with Molde winning by at least 2 goals.

River Plate @ Arsenal

Arsenal de Sarandi host River Plate for the evening’s Argentine Primera Division Group A match, with the hosts tipped to claim victory at the Estadio Julio H. Grondona.

The hosts enter the fixture having lost their previous league match 2-0 against Indepediente last weekend. However, Arsenal will still be expected to perform well for the game due to their impressive home record, losing just 1 of their last 7 matches in front of their supporters. Currently 4th in the Group A standings, Fernando de la Rosa’s men will be confident of continuing their run with a positive performance, taking all 3 points over their struggling opponents.

Last season’s Copa Libertadores winners have encountered several difficulties so far this campaign, languishing in 9th position. Los Millonarios have won just a single game on their travels in 7 attempts, with only 4 league victories in total. River Plate have scored just 3 times in their recent 5 games, and despite appearing to have fixed their early defensive problems, may still struggle in this fixture,

Arsenal fans should look forward a home win this evening over a lacklustre River Plate, taking all the points and pushing themselves above Indepediente into 3rd. 

Kalmar @ Djurgarden 

Djurgarden host Kalmar in the Swedish Allsvenskan at the Tele 2 Arena in Stockholm today.

The home side really should collect all three points today against a very weak Kalmar side who are currently sit third bottom in the league.

Djurgarden have won three of their four home games this season at home and apart from that one loss have knocked in a minimum of three goals in each of their home wins.

Kalmar on the other hand have yet to register a win on the road in their four road games losing two and drawing two, they have yet to score more than once in any game on their away trips and I see them struggling again today.

Djurgarden are not setting the world on fire, they are just three points ahead of Kalmar, but they are good at home and Kalmar are weak away.

Whatever way I look at this game, all I see is a home win.

Cincinnatti @ Cleveland

I am confident that the Reds will put up a good effort this evening, I am taking them on the run line, but I will also take them on the money line, that is how confident I am that they will put in a good performance.

It also helps that my confidence in the Indians has taken a dive in recent days, I thought they would sweep the Twins and yet they lost 2-1 against a team that has one of the worst records on the road, which also does apply to the Reds, but that seems to be no great barrier when taking on Cleveland these days.

I know that the Indians stuffed the Reds last night, but they beat the Twins in the first game of their recent three game series in Cleveland and they still lost the series.

This game is all about confidence for me, I have that confidence in the Reds to come back from last nights big loss and I have very little confidence that the Indians can repeat last nights efforts.

The Reds +1.5

Bournemouth @  Man Utd

The Premier League finally concludes this evening when Bournemouth once again travel to Old Trafford to face Manchester United, with the hosts expected to win by at least 2 goals.

Manchester United have struggled with some inconsistent form this season, most recently letting their hopes of Champions League qualification slip after defeat to West Ham. The Red Devils are tied on points with 5th placed Southampton, and would need just a single point to claim the automatic Europa League position, but will throw everything forward to ensure nothing is left to chance. Louis van Gaal’s team boast the second-best home record in the Premier League, and will be aiming to restore their confidence with a comprehensive victory at Old Trafford. The players know that a strong result would be needed before the crucial FA Cup final at Wembley this weekend, and a victory by at least 2 goals would achieve a much-needed morale boost.

Visitors Bournemouth have exceeded their expectations by avoiding relegation from the top division, but cannot be considered as potential winners this evening. The Cherries have been week in attack throughout the season, and will struggle to muster any sort of meaningful attack against the Premier League’s best defence. Eddie Howe’s men have already achieved their target for the campaign, and will likely be distracted with the prospect of the summer break.

In summary, Manchester United are predicted to comfortably see off Bournemouth tonight, winning by a margin of 2 goals or more.

Aalborg BK @ AGF Aarhus 

AGF Aarhus welcome Aalborg BK in a Danish Superliga fixture at the Ceres Park this evening, with the visitors considered favourites to claim victory.

Newly-promoted hosts Aarhus have been struggling in the top division of Danish football this season, and remain just three points above Esbjerg and the relegation zone. Last week, the Whites won their first game in 11 attempts, though it seems doubtful that Glen Riddersholm’s squad will be able to follow it up with a successive victory. AGF lost the season’s previous home fixture against Aalborg back in August, and will be vulnerable to another defeat with their poor defensive record.

Although visitors Aalborg lost to league leaders Copenhagen in their most recent league fixture, Lars Søndergaard’s team have been excellent over the past few weeks, winning 5 of their last 7 matches. One of their wins included a 3-0 home thrashing of 4th placed Brøndby, and another 3 points this evening would cause Aalborg to leapfrog them and claim the position. The AaB team will be motivated by the prospect of potential European qualification, and should be able to repeat their previous result at Ceres Park by brushing Aarhus aside.

Aalborg BK to cover the spread and win the evening’s match against AGF Aarhus and take all three points.

Haugesund @ Valerenga

Valerenga host high-flying Haugesund in the afternoon Norwegian Tippeligaen match, with the home team expected to claim all three points with a victory at the Ullevaal Stadion.

Valerenga had a dismal start to the season, losing their first four fixtures and dropping to the bottom of the league table. However, Kjetil Rekdal’s team have steadily improved in recent weeks, particularly with performances in front of their home support. Valerenga have comfortably won each of their past three games at the Ullevaal, and fans will be confident that their good run will continue against Haugesund. The Bohemians completed the double over their opponents last season, and will be aiming to do so once again this time round.

Haugesund are seven positions above Valerenga, currently enjoying 4th in the league standings. Although the Araberne have registered some strong results so far, Mark Dempsey’s squad have struggled on their travels this season, losing three of the last four away games. Combined with their historic difficulty against Valerenga, it’s hard to see Haugesund taking anything from today’s game.

Valerenga have put their awful start to the season firmly behind them, and maintain an excellent home record. Therefore, the hosts should be considered favourites for the match and beat Haugesund this afternoon.