English Championship action here on Saturday has Millwall taking on Charlton. Charlton has been very good since the restart, with six points. The Addicks haven't lost and haven't allowed a goal since they returned. They are coming off a draw with Cardiff City, 0-0. Millwall has not looked good since coming back from their break. They have just three points and have yet to win a game. The Lions have only lost once though, that coming to Derby County. They also have draws to Barnsley 0-0 and to Swansea City 1-1. Charlton will look to do something here they haven't done since 1996 and that's beat Millwall. In their 11 meetings since, Millwall has six wins and five matches have ended in a draw. Not too often I play teams to draw, but this looks like the matchup to do just that. Play DRAW.

Italy Series A matchup here on Thursday as Udinese takes on Roma. Roma was all pumped up following their big win over Sampdoria, but that was short lived as they then lost to Milan, 0-2. That loss ended a three-game win streak by the Giallorossi. Now their chances of a Championship league bid has been hurt. Udinese is also coming off a loss at home to Zebrette, 2-3. Roma's defense has not been good since returning, allowing both opponents three goals. Home has been good to Roma in this matchup, winning 10 of the previous 11 matchups with Udinese. Home is big in this matchup and with that being said I look for Roma to take tis game. Play Roma here on the goal line. 

Big day in the German Bundesliga league here as the first leg of the relegation playoff. Bermen will have to play this match without their key defender in Kevin Vogt, who has been suspended for this match. These teams met earlier in the season and it was Bremen that came out on top, 4-1. Both these teams have an important match here and both can score and have suspect defenses. For me, that's an equation for a good OVER. Play OVER. 

Italian Series A action here on Thursday has Napoli taking on Atalanta. Atalanta hosts this game and has been tough at home, going unbeaten in their last eight matches in Series A. In addition, they have scored at least two goals in each of their last eight league matches. No team has more goals this season than Atalanta. Napoli is holding onto the last European qualifying spot in Series A. In their last contest they beat SPAL, 3-1. It was the fourth game in a row that Napoli has recorded at least two goals. Both these teams have been scoring and I look for that here on Thursday. Take the OVER.

This game has utmost importance to both teams this week. No, not for first place, but to stay above the relegation line. Both these teams are straddling that line right now with the loser coming out on the possible relegation end of the stick. Both these defenses are poor and therefore this one could be a shootout. That is even more evident when you consider 10 of the last 11 meetings have had at least three goals scored. Sampdoria has the edge thought for me as they have won 12 of the last 15 matches with Lecce. In addition, they have won four straight matches at this stadium. I heavily favor Sampdoria in this one.

This game has utmost importance to both teams this week. No, not for first place, but to stay above the relegation line. Both these teams are straddling that line right now with the loser coming out on the possible relegation end of the stick. Both these defenses are poor and therefore this one could be a shootout. That is even more evident when you consider 10 of the last 11 meetings have had at least three goals scored. Sampdoria has the edge thought for me as they have won 12 of the last 15 matches with Lecce. In addition, they have won four straight matches at this stadium. With a posted total of 2.75 or 3, that seems like a bargain over play for me. Take OVER.

Italian series A league action here on Wednesday has Brescia taking on Inter Milan. Inter Milan has not lost in its last four games and now faces one of the worst teams in Series A. Since returning from their break, Inter Milan has won two and one draw, coming off a win over Parma 2-1. Brescia is at the bottom of the table and facing relegation. Brescia has a pair of draws since returning to action. Inter Milan has lost just once in their last 11 Series A matches vs Brescia. With Brescia fighting for survival I expect a better effort here today. With that in mind I expect at least three goals in this contest. I'm taking the OVER.

Norwich is the bottom team in the league and face relegation if they don't start putting some points on the board. Arsenal sure didn't look good after returning from the virus break with two consecutive losses. In one contest, vs Manchester City, they failed to even put a shot on goal. Things have turned around thought for Arsenal lately as they have beaten Southhampton and Sheffield United. Now they take on the bottom team in the league in Norwich City. Norwich has lost 20 of 31 and have the league's worst defense. They have allowed 56 goals and also average a league worst, 25 goals. I look for an easy Arsenal win here today as they score at least 3-goals. If we can get just one out of Norwich then we get an over. However, I won't be surprised if Arsenal takes this one over by themselves. Price to steep to lay with Arsenal, so take the OVER.

Italian Series A play here on Tuesday has Juventus taking on Genoa. Jeventus leads the league right now, now 7 points ahead of second place Lazio. They are also coming off a win over Lecce, 4-0. Genoa is coming off a loss to Parma, 1-4. Last time these teams met Jeventus won 2-1 at Turin. Jeventus has a big advantage in this matchup, having 18 wins in their last 28 meetings with six draws. Low total here at 2 1/2 and I look for Jeventus to get this one over by themselves. They are far and above the better team and while Genoa might not light the scoreboard, I believe we should get three or more out of Jeventus. Take the OVER. 

Leeds United looks poised to return to the Premier League as they continue to push forward as they are tops in the table by three-points. They are coming off a home win over Fulham, 3-0. Not such good news for Luton, who has been at the bottom of the table for some time now. They have the league's worst defense with 72 goals allowed. This should be an easy win for Leeds today, but of course at these prices we can't play them. We can play the total though and I expect Leeds to get plenty in this one. Take Leads on the Spread line at -1 1/2 goals and -105. 

Both of these teams are much improved. Reading is very consistent and Brentford has been on a upgrade since last season. Brentford has moved from 21st last year to third this year. They have also gone a four game unbeaten streak. Brentford also the highest scoring team this season. The Bees are also very good defensive team. I'm pretty high on Brenford. With their very good offense and defense are one of the best rounded teams and no wonder they have moved up so far this year. Take Brentford.

Turkey League action here on Monday in Soccer. Kasimpasa brings a four game winning streak into this contest. The Apaches might be the best team in the league right now. They are also unbeaten in their last six games with one draw. Meanwhile, Genclerbirligi is coming off a 0-2 loss. They are 1 win, 3 losses and one draw int heir last five games. The Genclerbirligi Youth are just that, a young team moving up in class. I look for Kasimpasa to handle them quite easily. I'm taking both Kasimpasa in this one.

Turkey League action here on Monday in Soccer. Kasimpasa brings a four game winning streak into this contest. The Apaches might be the best team in the league right now. They are also unbeaten in their last six games with one draw. Meanwhile, Genclerbirligi is coming off a 0-2 loss. They are 1 win, 3 losses and one draw int heir last five games. The Genclerbirligi Youth are just that, a young team moving up in class. I look for Kasimpasa to handle them quite easily. I expect Kasimpasa to score in this one, but on the road they could get some pushback and therefore I'm taking the over.

Portugal Primiera Liga action here on Monday. Desportivo Aves coming off a 0-3 defeat at Gil Vicente. Before that, they had a draw at home vs Porto. The club has had trouble putting the ball in the back of the net. They have just 11 goals in 14 home games. Meanwhile, they have conceded 21 goals. Moreirense has 13 points in their 14 away games. They have 2 wins, 5 losses and 7 draws. They are coming off a 1-1 draw at home vs Famalicao. In 14 away games they have 16 goals and 18 allowed. Niether team is great, but Desportivo Aves not playing well at home. I'm taking Moreirense here in this one.

Napoli has been a high streak, not only winning the Coppa Italia but starting with a win over Hellas Verona in their first game back. If we look at Napoli's last six Series A matches, they have five wins against just one loss. Not such good news for SPAL, who has just one win to go with five losses in their last six Series A matches. The last seven matches between these teams has resulted in five wins for Napoli and two draws. While I can't lay the price here with Napoli, I do expect them to get their share of goals and don't be surprised if they get over the total by themselves in this one. Play OVER.

FA Cup action here on Sunday has Arsenal vs Sheffield United. Arsenal snapped a 2-game losing streak with a win last time out over Southhampton, 2-0-. Sheffield United hasn't done well since the league restart, losing both its games 3-0 to go with a 0-0 draw to Aston Villa. United has really not looked good at all since the restart, failing to score a goal in all three matches. The Arsenal Gunners look to have all the edges in this one here on Sunday and that's who I will be on. Play Arsenal.

One thing that has been evident as the Premier League has returned to action after a 3-month virus break is that there is player fatigue. We've seen a lot of this already as substitutions has been more frequent as players seem to be losing their legs earlier. That's understandable though. It will take some games to get those "game legs" back under them.  That being said, we have two excellent teams here on Thursday as Manchester City takes on Chelsea. Both teams are solid and in these early games I'm looking for action that will be played closer to the vest and more defensively. Therefore, I'm taking the UNDER here on Thursday. 

Liverpool is close to something that haven't done in over 30 years, that is sealing a Premier League Title.  The Reds are just five points away from doing just that as they host Crystal Palace here on Wednesday. The Crystal Palace Eagles are looking at their best Premeier season ever also here this season. The Eagles are coming off a 2-0 win over Bournemouth last time out. This will be the first Liverpool hosted Premier league game at Anfield since 2017. Liverpool looked very rusty in their 0-0 draw last game and in a return to league play. The Reds also had a few players that needed to be withdrawn early due to fatigue. I'm usually a big fan of Liverpool scoring and overs, but since they are still looking to get their game legs and Crystal Palace will be no pushover here, I'm going to play UNDER in this one. 

Tottenham Spurs plays host today to West Ham. Lucas Moura and Dele Alli will be back in the lineup today for Tottenham. West Ham will have to continue play without Sebastien Haller and Robert Snodgrass. West Ham has won just one of the last 10 league games with two draws on the road. That makes them second from the last in fewer away points this year. Should be a lower scoring game, but the troubles that West Ham has had on the road are too much for me to get past. I'll take a shot here with the Spurs. Play Tottenham. 

English Premier league action is back and with that Jim Feist's favorite soccer league. Here on Saturday Jim will look at Leicester City against Watford. These teams last met back on December 4 with Leicester coming out on top, 2-0. In fact, of the last nine times these teams have met, none have resulted in a draw. Watford does has something to hang their hat on, a 3-0 home win before the virus break over Liverpool. The Hornets now take on Leicester City. Leicester City can still make the Champions League and that's important to this club. As for the Hornets, they face being relegated as the season moves on. With Leicester taking seven of the previous 10 games vs Watford and a Champions League spot on the line, I'll take them as a small dog here on Saturday.

 Real Madrid fighting it out with Barcelona for the Spain La Liga title. This race looks to come down to the wire. Madrid has lost two of their last five matches in the Spain La Liga, with both those losses coming on the road. Madrid should have no problems here today on their home turf, a site they have not lost at this year in the La Liga. Meanwhile, Valencia has jus tone win in their last five matches and are coming off a 1-1 contest at home vs Levante. Madrid has won four of the last five in this matchup. The last meeting between these clubs was a 3-1 Madrid win. Both teams should score in this game. I'm looking for the host to pave the way and if we can get one goal out of the visitor, this game should go over. Play the OVER.

Bayer Leverkusen looks to try and get a top 4 finish in the league. Bayer is coming off a 1-1 draw vs Schalke. They have won 10 of their last 17 games. Bayer has been a much better 2nd half team, averaging 1.987 goals per game at home this season. Their totals have averaged right around 3.27 goals per game. Cologne is coming off a 1-2 loss at Union Berlin. They have won just four of their 19 road games this year. The club averages 1.40 goals per game and their totals have come in at 3.6 goals per games. I like this game to go over today. I'm looking at a four game finish here and the total is at 3.25 or 3.5 for this contest. The value for me on the German board today is OVER.

Portuguese Primeira Liga action here on Thursday has SL Benfica vs CD Tondela. The Primeira Liga returns after almost a 3 month layoff. Benfica and Porto will vy once again for the league title. Porto has 60 points and Benfica right behind them with 59 points. As for Tondela, they are in survival mode right now, hoping to be in the Primeira Liga again next season. They are in 14th place with just 25 points. This will be the first game for both teams after a lengthy 3-month layoff. I learned from the German league that the legs aren't necessarily there in this first game. Still there is a huge difference in the quality of these teams. While we might see rust here in their first games back, I'm going to take the bettter team still in the hunt for that title. Play Benfica -2 goals (+1.05).

Leipzig has been a bit on the inconsistent side, but still having a good season and a chance at No 2 in the Bundesliga league. They are coming off a 2-2 draw with Hertha Berlin last Wednesday. Cologne has been slumping but has lost at home just one time in their last nine tries, that game beting to the best team in Bayern Muchinch 1-4. Leipzig has missed some golden opportunities to move up in league play with their inconsistency. Despite being unbeaten in their last nine, six of those nine have been draws.  Considering both teams playing less than stellar, the goal line here today ont the dog of +1.5 goals looks too good to pass on at home. Play Cologne +1.5 goals (-120). 

Not much you can say other than this Bayern Munich team can really light up the scoreboard. In their first game back they looked very rusty and un-motivated. However, they have turned that back around since and the scoring has commenced. Bayern looks to add another Bundesliga title to their seven titles already. Fortuna Dusseldorf has been good too, unbeaten in their last six games. We have a high total here at 4, but that should be little trouble for Bayern to get over almost by themselves. Play the OVER.

The last time these clubs met it was a Mainz blowout win, taking down Hoffenheim 5-1 on November 24, 2019. Hoffenheim is coming off a win last time out over Koln and a draw vs Union Berlin. Home teams have not been doing well this year in the German league and with that I am taking a long look here at the visitor, Hoffenheim. Hoffenheim is a good defensive team while Mainz is more a risk taking aggressive team. I'm going to stick with the road team trends thus far and take the money line dog price with Hoffenheim.

Last meeting between these clubs back on Nov 24, 2019 was a 4-0 win by Augsburg. Hertha not playing all that well but has improved of late. Hertha not a good come-from-behind team so they will look to get on the scoreboard first here on Saturday. Augsburg has allowed more than two goals per game on the road. They area also looking for that first road win. For me, I don't favor either team in this one and won't be surprised by a draw. I'm taking the over as both teams should score in this one.

Bayer Leverkusen has looked very good since returning from its two-month Covid-19 layoff. They have a pair of away wins over Werder Bremen and Borussia Monchengladbach, scoring seven goals in the process. They are in fourth place with 53 points. Wolfsburg is 6th place with 39 points. Wolfsburg lost their last game at home to Dortmund, but no shame in that against one of the best teams in the league. They did open however with a road win at Augsburg. The home team should score quickly and often in this one. I'm taking the OVER here on Tuesday.

Bayer Leverkusen has looked very good since returning from its two-month Covid-19 layoff. They have a pair of away wins over Werder Bremen and Borussia Monchengladbach, scoring seven goals in the process. They are in fourth place with 53 points. Wolfsburg is 6th place with 39 points. Wolfsburg lost their last game at home to Dortmund, but no shame in that against one of the best teams in the league. They did open however with a road win at Augsburg. The home team should score quickly and often in this one. Take the home team her in Bayern Leverkusen.

Two rivals meetup here on Tuesday as Dortmund hosts Bayern Munich. Dortmund returned from their layoff with a 4-0 win over Schalke and followed with a win over Wolfsburg, 2-0. That makes six straight winners for the home team here on Tuesday. The club has also not lost a home game since April 2019. Dortmund is one of the favorites to win the Bundesliga title. teeing the German top division up for a fascinating conclusion. A win here on Tuesday could put them within one point of the top spot. Meanwhile, Bayern Munich beat Union Berlin 2-0 and followed that with a 5-2 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt. Bayern is also a contender for the crown, sitting just four points out of the top spot. Injuries could be an issue here for Bayern on Tuesday with Thiago Alcantara is yet to make his return to training from a groin injury, Corentin Tolisso and Phillipe Coutinho out and defender Niklas Sule doubtful. Both these teams can attack and this game looks to be the top game of the day. Both teams should light the scoreboard in this one. While I don't like a side, I'll take the OVER.

Leipzig hits the road this week after opening play after the mandatory break with a 1-1 draw with Freiburg last week. That dropped Leipzig into fourth place with 51 points. There's a connection between these clubs as former Leipzig manager Achim Beielorzer now is the head coach of Mainz. It hasn't been an easy road for Mainz, having lost nine of their 16 defeats by two goals or more. Moreover, they lost 0-8 at Leipzig. I expect Mainz to give up quite a few goals here today, plus this game means more to Leipzig. I'm taking the over in what should be a shootout here today.

The rust was pretty evident as German soccer returned last week from a virus-hiatus. Now that the players have a game under their respective belts, I look for a bit closer to form play here today. Bayern Munich had little trouble last week with Union Berlin, but the intensity just wasn't there. Look for that to change here today. Meanwhile, Eintracht struggled in their return in a game to Borussia Monchengladbach. I look for Bayern to return to their high scoring ways here today. I liked them over last week, but the layoff was evident. I expect much more from there here today. Play OVER.

Two very evenly matched teams meet here on Friday in a German Bundesliga league game. Hertha Berlin is coming off a win over Hoffenheim, 3-0. Union Berlin lost in their return to Bayern Munich, 0-2. This is a rematch of a Nov 2 meeting in which Hertha Berlin won, 1-0. Only one point separates these teams and just two goals in differential. I'm going to take the host in this one. Take Hertha Berlin.

The defending champion Bayern Munich plays at An der Alten Forsterei stadium on Sunday. The host, FC Union Berlin will look to see if they can upend the champions. Union Berlin games have been high scoring, as they allowed three goals in their last match at Freidburg and were knocked out of the German Cup quarterfinals by allowing three goals to Bayer Leverkusen. It won't be easy today against Bayern Muchich. Bayern has won 14 of their last 15 matches in all leagues. That icnludes a 3-0 win at Chelsea in the UEFA Champions league and a blowout win at Hoffenehim, 6-0. In addition, Bayern has been amazing on the road, scoring three goals or more in their last five away league games. Expect this one to be a high scoring affair as Bayern Munich should light the score board. Play the OVER.

Host Schalke looks to get off the bad ride they were on prior to the break in Bundeslia play. Schalke hadn't won in their last six competions since January 17. The last five meetings between these teams have resulted in three goals or more scored in three of those games.  With both teams being well rested coming off this mandatory break and injured players now healed, I like this game to go over the total here today. Play OVER.

Leipzig can close the gap in the title challenge with Bayern Munich to just two points with a win here today. Feiburg are 2-2-1 their last five games and are eighth in the standings. Leipzig playing at home is a big edge for this club, having gone unbeaten in their last nine on the home turf. Meanwhile, Freiburg has not been good on the road, winning just once in their last 10.  Take the host here in what should be a lopsided win on the goal line. Leipzig -1.5 goals.

The Finals of the Women's World Cup has the Netherlands taking on the USA. The USA women's team making their third straight World Cup finals appearance and looking to defend their 2015 World Cup title. The USA got here by beating England 2-1 and the Netherlands by defeating Sweden. Basically I've been backing the USA in every game thus far and as such I've won every game expect their 2nd match against Chile where they failed to cover the large line. Still, this USA team is the best by far among the field. Rapinoe missed the semifinal game with what was called a hamstring issue. But her absence showed the depth of this USA team as they didn't miss a beat. The one knock against this team is that they are arrogant and lets face it, really good teams usually are. They know they are good and should win this title. The line is a bit high at -230'ish, but you could lay a 1/2 goal and get that lower. I'm going to lay the price. I don't lay these big number usually, but why go against what has worked for me all tournament long. Play the USA.

Team USA one step closer to their 2nd straight World Cup Championship after defeating the host nation last week, 2-1. It was the team's second straight 2-1 victory. Now they play England in the World Cup Semifinals. Both these clubs are 5-0 in World Cup play. England finished 3rd in the 2015 FIFA World Cup, defeating Germany in the consolation game. USA is the favorite and should be here. Though we have seen the line on them steadily get smaller to today's line of just -1.20 or there abouts. Now that is the line to win outright and not go into penalty kicks. England is a +330 dog and the DRAW is a +269 dog. I'm going to stick with what I have this entire tournament and that's on the USA team.

 Arguably the biggest game thus far for the USA here on Friday. They play the host nation, France. That means the crowds will be behind the host team here. The USA just did get by a tough Spain squad in their first knockout game 2-1. The USA scoring both goals on penalty kicks from Rapinoe. They will face a France team that defeated Brazil, 2-1 after extra time. No more ties at this point. If they are tied at the end of 90 minutes then they will play two, 15-minute periods. If they are still tied, then penalty kicks will decide this one. One area of concern is that of star player Alex Morgan. Morgan has taken a beating in this World Cup and has missed some time. How healthy she will be is of big concern today. Is this USA team as good as the World Cup Champions of 2015? I don't think they are quite as good, but should be good enough to win another Cup this year. I expect a win today over France, though it will be close. Take the USA

 The knockout stages of the Women's World cup has begun, that means you lose and your done. The USA has the most pressure on them as defending World Cup Champions. However, they are also by far the best team in this tournament. Their defense has been perfect so far, shutting out Thailand, Chile and Sweden. Today they face a Spanish team that played to a 0-0 draw with China in the their stage of their group. In addition, Spain was shutout 0-1 by Germany and beat South Africa 3-1. I don't expect to see Spain score here and if they do it will likely be just one goal. I don't usually advocate laying 2.00+ on a team, but to me, this is easy money today on the USA team. Play the USA.

The defending Women's World Cup USA team didn't disappoint in their opening match vs Thailand. They sent a message to the rest of the World that they are again the team to beat this year with a 13-1 blowout of Thailand. Some analysts say that was unsportman-like to run up the score. I say it isn't in a sport where goals can count in the end. So today, the USA once again plays a very inferior team in Chile. They are laying 4 1/2 goals today and I could easily see a 8-0 or thereabouts score. The USA will cruise through this game, just like they did Thailand. Lay the goals and enjoy the show. Play the USA -4.5 goals.

Croatia would get my award for the scrapiest team in this year's World Cup. For such a small country to pull off such a big feat is simply amazing. France, among favorites to win this cup, had an easy route through group C play with Denmark, Peru and Australia. They beat Argentina 4-3 in the round of 16 and then Uruguay in the semifinals, 2-0. They advanced to today's final with a win over Belgium, 1-0. Croatia won their group over Argentina, a big shock to many. They swept group play by outscoring opponents 7-1. They had to go to penalty kicks to defeat Denmark in the round of 16. They needed penalty kicks to then beat Russia in the quarterfinals. They beat England in the semifinals, 2-1, despite falling behind 0-1 early in the match. I look at Croatia as the Cinderella team, if this was a NCAA basketball tournament. Croatia has been able to pull through no matter what and I'm taking them as a dog here today. Play Croatia.

Russia is the host nation to this World Cup and they have advanced to the final eight after their improbable win over Spain in a penalty kick phase. What Russia did during regulation was basically play defense, as Spain controlled the time of possession and passing. However, they couldn't get quality shots against the Russians who packed in their defense. It really seemed as though Russia was playing for the penalty kick phase and that's just what happened. Now they face Croatia. Croatia beat Denmark in penalty kicks too. So both clubs advanced having to go through regulation, two 15 minute extra times and then penalty kicks. The Russians are the lowest ranked team left (ranked 70th in the world). They don't have world class players and really should never have beaten Spain. I don't expect more than a 1-0 or 1-1 regulation final here. Don't expect Russia to change what worked against a superior Spanish club. They will pack in the defense and see what happens. Play UNDER 2.5 goals.

Colombia finished tops in their Group H division with a clean-sheet, finishing up with a win over Senegal, 1-0. England didn't need their last group game, therefore they rested several players in their loss to Belguim. Harry Kane rested for England and is the leading candidate for the Golden Book with five goals in his two group stage games. Colombia opened group stage play with a lackluster contest against Japan that resulted in a 1-2 loss. Then they rebounded with decisive wins over Poland Senegal. With their big three players returning, including Kane, I like England to advance after beating Colombia here today. Play England.

 Belgium enters the knockout round as the leading scoring team in the World Cup. Belgium can make the last eight for the third time with a win today over Japan. In addition, the Red Devils are unbeaten in their last 22 matches. Japan has never won a final 16 match, so unlike Belgium, they are in unfamiliar territory. With the leading scoring team in the Cup, Belgium here today, I look for a good over play in this match. Play OVER.

Croatia has now lost just one time in their last 11 matches after finishing atop their group with a perfect 3-0 record. They cruised past Nigeria, 2-0 in their opening game, then shocked Argentina with a 3-0 upset in their second and finally beat a determined Iceland 2-1 in their third. Denmark can also boast an nice unbeaten string of 18 games now dating back to October 2016. The Danes beat Peru in their opener 1-0 and then competed to a draw with Australia, 1-1 in their second game. Finally they also had a draw with France in game three, 0-0. Despite scoring just two goals in three games, they still did not lose a match. However, Croatia seems to be the team to beat here today and I feel that Denmark's luck will run out. Play Croatia.

Argentina has to be one of the big disappointments in this World Cup. The 2014 finalist is coming off a dishearting 0-3 loss to Croatia last week and will need a 2-0 scored to keep their Cup hopes alive. Meanwhile, Nigeria is in second place in Group D and can secure their spot in the elimination round of 16 with a win or tie today. Many expect Argentina to bounce back today. But I believe the Super Eagles will continue their offensive style of play and we'll see a frustrated Argentina squad going home. Play Nigeria.

Argentina has to be one of the big disappointments in this World Cup. The 2014 finalist is coming off a dishearting 0-3 loss to Croatia last week and will need a 2-0 scored to keep their Cup hopes alive. Meanwhile, Nigeria is in second place in Group D and can secure their spot in the elimination round of 16 with a win or tie today. Many expect Argentina to bounce back today. But I believe the Super Eagles will continue their offensive style of play that has gotten this far. Argentina will have to open up their game if they are to try and win 2-0 and that will mean counter attacks for the Super Eagles. I like this game to go OVER.

Iceland might as well have gotten a win in their opening round game vs Argentina as they tied the South American powerhouse, 1-1. Messi missed a penalty kick that would have been the game winner for Argentina. Now Iceland faces the very young Nigerian team. Nigeria lost 0-2 in their opener to Croatia. This Nigerian team is young, they have a goalie that is 19 years old and they were very passive in their game vs Croatia. Maybe nerves? Nigeria is very vulnerable to the corner kicks and it showed vs Croatia. The Croates got both goals via the corner kicks, one when Nigeria committed a penalty in the box and Croatia got a penalty kick off the play. I am going to stick with Iceland here on Friday!

 France -1. France will guarantee a spot in the final 16 with a win today over Peru. France got pushed a bit in their group C opening game by the Aussie's in a 2-1 France win. Peru, who is back in the World Cup for the first time in 36 years, showed well in their opening loss to Denmark. Peru knows they are not as the same level of experience as their opponents. This one really is a mismatch as France has all the weapons and Peru is just happy to be here. Lay the goal or goal and a half here with France.

Spain started group play with a 3-3 tie vs their long time rivals, Portugal. A lot of heat has come upon goalie David de Gea. de Gea made a big error on the second goal to Reynaldo. He also gifted Switzerland with an equalizing goal in their qualifier. de Gea has lost the confidence of the Spanish fans who want backup Kepa Arrizabalaga to start. However, coach Fernando Hierro has not lost confidence in his goalie who will start again today. Spain connected on an amazing 92% of their passes vs Portugal and had nearly a 2 to 1 advantage in time of possession. Still, they could come away with just a tie. Iran won their group opener over Morocco. While Iran is a big dog here today, I do think they will get at least one goal. Spain should also get their share of goals. I look for this game to go OVER.

Poland has not had the most stellar World Cup performances. Poland record in World Cup is 2-6 in their last eight and in all six of those losses they failed to score a goal. Senegal has only lost once in their last five matches, but only one of these was a win and the others were draws. Senegal makes its first World Cup appearance since 2002. Poland's last Cup appearance was 2006, however they boast one of the best players in the world in forward Robert Lewandowski. Senegal brings a lot of talent to this year's tournament, with Liverpool's Sadio Mane the star of the team. Despite some impressive talents on both sides, the lack of experience at this level will likely mean a low scoring game. Play the UNDER.

Opening match for Group G here between Panama and Belguim. Panama made their trip to Russia despite having a negative goal differential as they won only three of their 10 games in qualifying. Meanwhile, Belguim brings a nice resume to the Cup, having won nine of their 10 World Cup qualifying games and scoring 43 goals. Belgium is loaded with offensive and they get a softball here as they play World Cup newcomer Panama. The price is a bit steep, but play Belguim.

Opening match for Group G here between Panama and Belguim. Panama made their trip to Russia despite having a negative goal differential as they won only three of their 10 games in qualifying. Meanwhile, Belguim brings a nice resume to the Cup, having won nine of their 10 World Cup qualifying games and scoring 43 goals. Belgium is loaded with offensive and they get a softball here as they play World Cup newcomer Panama. Not sure if Panama will score, but I expect plenty to go over from just Belgium.

Croatia one of the better teams in this field of World Cup clubs. They boast excellent mid fielders and play excellent defense. Nigeria will look to take Africa's first win after a pair of other African nations lost 0-1 already. The problem with Nigeria is that they concede a lot of corner kicks and that has proved to be a problem for them defending them. Nigeria has not won any of their last four friendlies as they head into the Cup play here today. Argentina tied Iceland earlier today and that opens up this group for anything to happen. One thing I don't see happening is Nigeria pulling out a win here today against a better Croatia club. I'm taking Croatia. 

Australia takes on perinial World Cup Powerhouse France early on Saturday. The Australians haven't made the knockout stages since 2006. They have Denmark and Peru on tap after today's contest against France. Australia relies on a physical game and their speed as the only hopes against a better France team. Has this France team reached its potential yet? Some say no. They have great forwards and on paper look to be one of the teams to beat this year. I personally expect this to be one of the higher scoring games today. I like France to get their chances and goals and Australia could shock them with their physicality. I'm playing the OVER today.

 Expect a tough battle here between these Rivals, Spain and Portugal. This should be the game of the day. Fernando Hierro took over the helm for Spain asfter a dramatic late firing of Julen Lopetiequi. This could throw some disaray into the contest for Spain. Portugal has what is arguably the best player or scorer in Critiano Ronaldo. This could be a huge advantage for Portugal here today as Spain may have trouble in the coaching area and the players have to take over a bit more control in that area. Never a good thing for coaching changes late in the game, especially as we head into the World Cup. I'm going to take the UNDER here as Spain finds their footing in this World Cup. Play the UNDER.

Take the UNDER between Iran and Morocco

Take the UNDER between Uruguay and Egypt

The defending Gold Medal team, Mexico, opens defense of their title with the team a bit off kilter. Mexico wasn't even assured of making the trip to Brazil. During the summer, Mexico suffered it's worst ever defeat at the hands of Chile, 7-0. The good news for Mexico is that they return ample amount of talent that has played together. In addition, they should be in good shape with their own Liga MX already having gone through three stages. As for Germany, they won the world cup two years ago and returns to the Olympics for the first time since 1988. This Germany squad won't be as strong, with Emre Can and Leroy Sane not on the roster this time. Still, Germany will have lots of talent in these games and come in as a dog here. This game will be close, but there is value with the dog here. Take Germany.

The Republic of Ireland (RI) is in a "must-win" spot here against Italy on Wednesday if they hope to have any chance of advancing to the final 16. However, that isn't the big news. The news is about the field conditions. The surface at Lille's Stade Pierre Mauroy is damaged from recent bad weather and players have been having footing issues. The question becomes, why didn't they close the retractable roof and save the field? Still, the damage is done and the pitch won't be repaired until Friday. That means RI and Italy will have to endure harsh field conditions here on Wednesday. I expect both clubs to play this one close to the vest and defensively, looking not to make those footing mistakes. I'm taking the UNDER in what could easily be a 0-0 draw.

4/12 11:45 AM SOC (26117) PARIS ST GERMAIN VS (26118) MANCHESTER CITY.
Take: over the total.
Reason: Manchester City can't win the Premier League Championship, but they can add to their trophy total with a coveted Champions League victory. But first they have to get past Paris St Germain (PSG). The biggest problem I see with Manchester City is that the defense has been an issue. MC has only one clean sheet in their last nine Champion's League contests. Offensively, the club will look to Sergio Aguero. Aguero has 16 goals in his last 19 Champions League games. Meanwhile, PSG looks to do something they haven't done well lately, win on the road. PSG has just one win in their last seven away games vs the English squads. The good news is that the club has been scoring goals at a regular pace. PSG has at least two goals in their last five games. I'm going to stick with the OVER here on Tuesday.

Nottingham Forest changed from a very good defensive team to a more attacking team, something that didn't result in more wins. You can expect Nottingham to return to its defensive ways, much to the dismay of the home crowd. These clubs met last August at the Amex Stadium, where Nottingham won the low scoring affair, 1-0. Nottingham has gone five games without a win and lost eight of 10 Championship games. New HC Paul Williams will attempt to win his first game here today since taking over the reigns. Meanwhile, Brighton has lost just once in the last 14 games. The issue with Brighton is that on the road they have drawn in 11 of 20. Brighton is also one of the highest scoring clubs in the division with 56 goals. With Nottingham in flux, this game looks ripe to score three or four goals. Play over the 2 goal total here on Monday.

The USA will try to win another Women's World Cup here on Sunday against the defending champion Japan team. Japan is really fortunate to even be here. They were tied 1-1 with England late in their semi-final match when England's own defensive player kicked the ball in their own goal while trying to clear the ball. It was unfortunate, because England was outplaying the favored Japanese team with their strength and height. Meanwhile, the USA beat the top ranked team in the World in Germany, 2-0. They totally outplayed the Germans and have now allowed just one goal in the entire World Cup. And that goal came in their opening game against Australia. The Japanese team has great discipline and they are very technical in their passes. The USA has just dominated everyone and has the best goalkeeper in the world in Hope Solo. I'm taking the USA here. You have two options. You can take them to win in regulation at -1.30. Or, you can take them to win outright (includes OT and PK) at about -250. I am going to take both here. If the USA wins in regulation, you win both bets. My play is on the USA here on Sunday, a fitting Independence day-after celebration.