Best Football Bets and Expert Advice for 15 February
Europa League and Conference League Return with Exciting Play-Off Matches
After two nights of thrilling Champions League and Championship action, football fans can look forward to the return of the Europa League and Europa Conference League on Thursday. The first legs of the play-off round matches will feature teams that dropped out of either the Champions League or Europa League, taking on the sides that finished second in their respective groups.
Entertaining Evening of Football Expected as Teams Return from Winter Breaks
While some clubs are returning from their winter breaks feeling refreshed and rejuvenated, others may be feeling weary after a busy few months. This combination could lead to an entertaining evening of football, with teams giving it their all on the pitch.
Bet of the Day: Galatasaray to Beat Sparta Prague and Both Teams to Score
Galatasaray, who finished third in a strong Champions League group behind Bayern Munich and Copenhagen, are a team to watch in the Europa League. They edged out Manchester United to secure their spot in the competition. However, they first have to overcome a play-off against Sparta Prague, who finished ahead of Real Betis in Group C. Sparta Prague returned to domestic action with a 3-0 win at Karvina but lost away matches against both Betis and Rangers in the pool stages before securing a win at Limassol. Despite Galatasaray’s disappointing home form in the Champions League, they have a star-studded squad that should be able to grab a first-leg lead in what could be a high-scoring affair in Istanbul.
Special of the Day: Treble with Goals in Lens v Freiburg, AC Milan v Rennes, and Union SG v Eintracht Frankfurt
The Europa League and Conference League often provide more excitement than the Champions League, with plenty of goals on the cards. Lens, who have conceded in all three of their home games in 2024, will face Freiburg, who will see this match as an opportunity to find form after three straight domestic defeats. Rennes and AC Milan, both known for their attacking prowess, have had both teams scoring in their recent games. Finally, Union SG and Eintracht Frankfurt have been involved in high-scoring matches, making this treble a promising option.
Long Shot of the Day: Shakhtar Donetsk to Beat Marseille
Shakhtar Donetsk could be a great underdog bet in the first leg of their Europa League play-off against Marseille. Due to the political situation in their country, Shakhtar Donetsk has been playing their “home” matches at a neutral stadium. After losing their opening pool match at ‘home’ to Porto, they beat both Barcelona and Antwerp at Hamburg’s Volksparkstadion. Marseille, on the other hand, has failed to win their last five matches and is seemingly unsettled under their ever-volatile boss Gennaro Gattuso. Rust might be an issue for Shakhtar Donetsk due to the Ukrainian Premier League’s mid-season break, but they have a good chance of securing a victory.
Remember to Gamble Responsibly
Before engaging in any gambling activities, it is important to gamble responsibly. A responsible gambler establishes time and monetary limits before playing, only gambles with money they can afford to lose, never chases losses, and refrains from gambling if they are upset, angry, or depressed. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, there are resources available such as GamCare and Gamble Aware.
Commercial Content Notice
Please note that taking advantage of any bookmaker offers mentioned in this article may result in a payment to talkSPORT. It is important to read and understand the terms and conditions associated with these offers. Remember, 18+ only. T&Cs apply. BeGambleAware.org.