Weekend Football Tips – 17-18 August
Barcelona begin the defence of their La Liga title this weekend at home to Levante, whilst Real Madrid face Real Betis.
Sportingly Better picks out the best weekend football tips from European football, as Hamburg host Hoffenheim.
Weekend Football Tips
Hamburg (2.05) v Hoffenheim (3.50); Draw (3.50)
A late Rene Adler error gifted Schalke a share of the points last weekend, but Hamburg did manage to put themselves in front twice on Sunday, despite having fallen behind after the second minute.
Die Rothosen carried a real threat going forward last weekend, with Rafael van der Vaart often central to the club’s attacking ideas.
Deep-lying midfielder Milan Badelj expressed himself on the game, with summer signings Lasse Sobiech and Jacques Zoua looking good additions.
Thorsten Fink’s defence looks very questionable at the back, with die Rothosen especially vulnerable from set-pieces; something the visitors may look to capitalise on.
Opponents Hoffenheim will be looking to pick themselves up after letting a two goal lead slip last weekend, as Nurnberg scored twice in three minutes.
Coach Markus Gisdol has shifted the emphasis onto youth, with Sebastian Rudy, Kevin Volland, Roberto Firmino, Jannick Vestegaard and Koen Casteels all charged with taking the club forward.
Hoffenheim came through a relegation play-off to maintain their position in the Bundesliga last year, but Dietmar Hopp’s bankrolled club should perform slightly better than that this time around.
Hamburg have won five out of their last six matches against Hoffenheim in all competitions and the hosts should be buoyed by their display against Schalke last weekend to record all three points on Saturday.
Recommended Bets
Hamburg to win @2.05
Author Credit: Jonathan Day
Image Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/hazelwoodgirl/7734753684/