The Sports Bookie Blog

UEFA Champions League – Arsenal v Porto

English and Portuguese clubs also face each other at the Emirates Stadium, as Arsenal take on Porto looking to cement their position at the top of Group G.

Arsenal scored an opening victory in Hamburg. The 2-1 win in Germany could prove the launch pad for the Gunners season, being swiftly followed by victories at Old Trafford and at home to Sheffield United.

Arsene Wenger feels his youthful, new-look side, is coming of age and this game will certainly be another test of their development.

PinnacleSports have the Londoners as favourites (-1) 1.84.

Arsenal reached last season’s Champions League final, whereas the visitors went one better by winning the event in 2004.

However, Porto is a much changed side since that win, with the departure of coach Jose Mourinho beginning an exodus of players.

Though the Dragoes still dominate Portuguese football, winning last season’s Primera, they have only been successful on the road once in seven European games since lifting the trophy.

Jesualdo Ferreira’s side were disappointing in a goalless draw at home to CSKA Moscow, and Porto are (+1) 2.09 underdogs.

OUR PICK :
Arsenal 2-0

RELATED PRICES at PINNACLE SPORTS :
Arsenal  —– handicap (-1) @ 1.84
Porto —-— handicap (+1) @ 2.09

Add comment September 26th, 2006

UEFA Champions League – Benfica v Man United

Manchester United return to the Estadio da Luz, hoping to avenge the 2-1 defeat that ended their European dreams there last season.

Benfica went on to knock-out the defending champions in the fourth round, with victories at Anfield and “the Cathedral” , as their home stadium is more commonly known. With an intimidating atmosphere, it is a tough venue for any visiting side.

The Portuguese Champions of 2005 won the European Cup twice in the 60’s but their fans firmly believe they still belong among Europe’s elite

Manchester United’s 100% Premiership record was recently ended at home by Arsenal, who exploited the Red Devil’s over-confidence, and sloppiness in midfield.

Alex Ferguson will be desperate to regain momentum by laying the ghost of last season’s European failure to rest with a much tighter performance in Portugal.

Though United currently top Group F, with three points from a gripping Battle of Britain victory against Celtic, some of their defending against the Scots left a great deal to be desired, while Wayne Rooney has been anonymous since returning from suspension.

OUR PICK :
Draw 0-0 – take Benfica on handicap.

RELATED PRICES at PINNACLE SPORTS :
Benfica  —– handicap (0 & +0.5) @ 2.07
Man United — handicap (0 & -0.5) @ 1.86

Add comment September 26th, 2006