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Racing Tips Today - Monday 20th July 2026

2026-07-20T09:26:40+01:00

Monday’s racing brings a steady start to the new week, with racing tips today covering Ayr, Cartmel, Windsor, Beverley and Ballinrobe. There is afternoon action on the Flat and over jumps, before a strong evening focus at Windsor, Beverley and Ballinrobe, while the NAPs table has Farringdon still setting the pace at the top.

Today’s NAPs Table - Top 3

The top of the NAPs table has a strong Beverley feel on Monday, with Farringdon leading the way courtesy of Kentucky Rain in the 18:30. Newmarket sits second with Castlemont at Windsor, while Jeffrey Ross completes the leading trio with Isca Bay, who lines up against the table leader in the same Beverley maiden.

Tipster	NAP	Race/Time	Odds	P&L £
Farringdon	Kentucky Rain	18:30 Beverley	8/11	+£46.34
Newmarket	Castlemont	18:50 Windsor	4/1	+£40.50
Jeffrey Ross	Isca Bay	18:30 Beverley	9/2	+£37.01

NAPs Table

Templegate & Other Big-Name NAPs

There are also a few familiar newspaper names worth noting away from the top three. Templegate heads to Windsor with Lady Rosalind, Robin Goodfellow puts up Litmus Test in the Curragh opener, and Newsboy is focused on Ayr with Brash in the 17:00.

Templegate: Lady Rosalind, 18:20 Windsor, 13/8
Robin Goodfellow: Litmus Test, 13:40 Curragh, 4/1
Newsboy: Brash, 17:00 Ayr, 3/1

Racing News Round-Up

Johanna Walsh lands the Irish Oaks: The weekend’s big Group 1 story came at the Curragh, where Johanna Walsh won the Juddmonte Irish Oaks for Joseph O’Brien and Dylan Browne McMonagle. The 7/2 winner came home clear in the fillies’ Classic, with Inis Mor and Sparan Nua filling the places.
Goodwood Festival build-up continues: Attention is already starting to turn towards the Qatar Goodwood Festival, which begins later this month. The Sussex Stakes remains one of the headline races of the meeting and is shaping up to be a major midsummer mile target, with a strong entry list already in place for the Group 1 contest.

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How Long Is a Length in Horse Racing?

2026-07-17T17:32:19+01:00

A length is the length of a horse from nose to tail — roughly 8 to 9 feet. Horse racing results use lengths to give the distances between participants, but for this purpose, in British racing a length is treated as a measurement of time, not a fixed ruler distance.

A Length Is Really a Measurement of Time

When you look for the gaps between horses finishing a race the measurement is not physical lengths. British racing margins are converted from elapsed time using the Lengths per Second (LPS) scale, not measured physically.

The BHA (British Horseracing Authority) itself describes a length as "a measurement of elapsed time" that varies with the horse's size and stride.

The Lengths per Second Scale

The LPS (Lengths Per Second) scale is a method used by handicappers and race analysts to convert beaten distances ("lengths") into time. Rather than assuming one length always equals a fixed time, the LPS approach varies with the horses' speed at the finish.

The going used is the going in the straight. The judge may adjust computer-generated margins slightly where they don't reflect what happened. Faster ground = more lengths covered per second. Flat racing uses a higher figure than National Hunt as horses are typically moving at greater speeds.

British handicappers often simplify this by using a fixed LPS scale based on race distance rather than calculating speed for every race. A guide is below but the British Horseracing Authority does not publish an official universal LPS table for race analysis.

Flat Racing

Distance	Approx. LPS	Seconds per length
5f	6.5–6.7	0.15 s
6f	6.3–6.5	0.16 s
7f	6.2	0.16 s
1m	6.0	0.17 s
1m2f	5.8	0.17–0.18 s
1m4f	5.6	0.18 s
2m	5.3	0.19 s
2m+	5.0	0.20 s

National Hunt racing

Distance	Approx. LPS	Seconds per length
Hurdles	4.8–5.2	0.19–0.21 s
Chases	4.5–5.0	0.20–0.22 s

Using the above scales, beaten distances can be calculated as below.

If a horse is beaten 3 lengths in a 6f race:

LPS ≈ 6.4
Time = 3 ÷ 6.4 = 0.47 seconds

If beaten 3 lengths in a 2-mile race:

LPS ≈ 5.2
Time = 3 ÷ 5.2 = 0.58 seconds

The Margins Below a Length

When less than a length is the margin between finishing horses, they are displayed and referenced as below, with a nose as the smallest possible winning margin – note that the tip of the nose; tongue or ears don't count under the rules.

A dead heat is used for inseparable finishes, even when using photo finish in horse racing, and dead-heat rules then reduce winning bets accordingly.

Margin	Shorthand	Roughly
Dead Heat	DH	Indistinguishable
Nose	Nse	The smallest winning margin, where only the winner's nose is in front at the finish.
Short head	Sh	Slightly larger than a nose but less than a full head.
Head	Hd	Approximately the length of a horse's head.
Neck	Nk	Approximately the distance from the back of the horse's head to the base of its neck,
Half-length	½l	Half a horse length
Three-quarters-of-a-length	¾l	Three-quarters of a horse length

From a Nose to a Distance: The Extremes

There are various ways of measuring larger distances, with big margins mostly quoted in whole lengths. One of the most famous examples in Flat racing is Secretariat's 31 lengths winning margin in the 1973 Belmont Stakes.

In Ireland a margin of more than 30 lengths is simply called “a distance”, while in British racing the maximum recognised figure is 99 lengths, with anything beyond shown as 99+.

Why the Length System Matters

A standard, repeatable system keeps the assessment of beaten distances fair across thousands of races ensuring the margin of victory in horse racing is consistent when considering beaten lengths. The racecourse judge calculates distances for official purposes and handicappers use beaten lengths to assess each horse and assign the official ratings. These figures are used for handicap ratings. There are differing methods used in calculating Flat vs National Hunt lengths due to the differing speeds horses travel at in these races.

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What Does CD Mean in Horse Racing?

2026-07-17T17:19:23+01:00

Seeing the letters CD on a racecard signifies that a horse has already won over "course and distance" – precisely over the race in question’s exact track and over the exact distance. The C stands for course and the D stands for distance and when combined, they are used to identify a course and distance winner, which is sometimes written as C&D in form lines or racing copy.

C, D and CD: What Each One Tells You

The official BHA racecard uses standard practice and most racecards in major publications follow suit. Understanding the letters written beside a horses' name on the racecard is vital to helping punters read the form.

Symbol	Stands For	Meaning
C	Course	Won at this racecourse before (any distance)
D	Distance	Won over this distance before (at any course)
CD (or C&D)	Course and Distance	Won at this course AND over this distance (to within half a furlong, or 55 yards for Flat races under a mile)

Why a CD Winner Catches the Eye

Reading a racecard requires certain knowledge. The symbols, numbers and letters can be confusing to the uninitiated but, in reality, the racecard abbreviations are quite simple and straightforward once you have a clear understanding.

CD winners are eye-catching when assessing form. Essentially it means the horse has "been there and done that" and past performance in horse racing is often the best guide to future efforts.

British racecourses differ wildly, with places like Chester noted as tight and turning, Newmarket stiff galloping and York flat and galloping. A CD winner has already proven it handles this specific track shape AND sees out this specific trip, removing two big unknowns for punters. Many UK tracks are open to repeat successes from a course specialist horse.

The Catch: CD Doesn't Mean Value

A horse with course and distance winning form is typically to be viewed as a positive when reading a racecard but punters must then assess the value in backing those horses as the market often prices accordingly. Studies of UK turf Flat form show returns to starting price on CD winners are broadly similar to non-CD runners.

Proven handling of the specific track shape and trip is one of the more reliable positive signals, especially in handicap form reading, and must be treated as such.

It's also true that horses with four or more course-and-distance wins can be poor value in the market because they are over-bet, and that an old CD win on different ground may be irrelevant to today's race. Experienced punters know that CD is one of the racecard symbols in the UK taken as a green flag to investigate further, not a reason to back blindly.

Other symbols punters pay attention to include BF – which stands for Beaten Favourite on its previous start. Understanding potential mitigating factors for a previously beaten favourite – poor draw, bad luck in running, unsuitable ground, distance suitability for example – can be key in deciding whether or not to back that horse on its next start.

CD and BF are typically neighbouring symbols on the racecard, with form figures close by. The numeric form figures show 1 (first), 2 (second), 3 (third) etc. as well as 0 signifying an unplaced run (outside the first nine in big fields).

Using CD When You Read a Card

CD form is a positive for any horse but punters need to delve deeper to verify its relevance. Other factors to consider are recency, ground conditions, class (quality) of race and most recent form available. Weighing those factors up while also considering current race angles like pace, ground, weight and price is all part of the punters' puzzle. While CD form is notable, it is never a standalone selection method of form study.

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ITV Racing Tips: A Trio of Selections from Newbury, Market Rasen and Ripon

2026-07-17T16:08:19+01:00

With another sunny Saturday of racing ahead, ITV Racing brings together an excellent mix of Flat and summer jumps action. The feature race is the Summer Plate at Market Rasen, while Newbury and Ripon stage competitive Flat cards, including the Weatherbys Super Sprint at 3:37pm. I've picked out three selections for the afternoon, with one tip from each of these featured meetings.

So without further ado let's get onto the selections... good luck if you decide to follow.

1:55 Newbury: BetVictor Steventon Stakes (Listed Race)

Persica was beaten 1 and 3/4 lengths into second in a similar Listed event at Sandown a couple of weeks ago and looks a worthy favourite to go one better here. However with conditions riding a bit quicker today and with his best form having been shown with a bit more cut in the ground, I'm keen to look for something with a bit more juice in the price than the 7/4 currently on offer. Ocean's Four is the obvious alternative having finished fourth in a fast ground Group 3 over this distance at Royal Ascot last time. He won a French Group 3 on his final appearance last season so certainly has the class to take this at around 7/2.

However, it's SILAWI that I like here who is trading at around the 13/2 mark which looks big considering he is a Group 1 winner in Canada and a Group 3 winner at Windsor the time before that. He's joint top rated on RPR's with Persica and has twice won on Good To Firm ground. His fitness has to be taken on trust given he hasn't raced since finishing 6th in the Group 1 Neom Turf Cup in Riyadh in February but if he's ready to roll, he looks cracking value to land this Listed prize.

2:45 Market Rasen: Betway Summer Plate Handicap Chase (Premier Handicap)

As usual, the highlight of the Summer Jumps calendar looks a competitive affair with plenty in with chances. Kingston Narcissus will surely start as favourite for the Skelton team with plenty in his favour including recent form, trainer form and the possibility of some improvement from first time cheekpieces. He certainly looks the most likely winner but with 13 runners and four places being paid by most bookmakers, I'm keen to look for something at a bigger price that I think can hit the frame and NICKELFORCE fits the bill.

The Ben Case trained seven year old hasn't finished out of the first four in his last 12 runs, has form on a faster surface and arrives here in decent form having won a Fakenham Handicap by 9 lengths on his penultimate start and then following that up with a respectable second placed finish at Stratford. At 20/1 he is worth backing each-way to secure another top four finish.

3:15 Ripon: Ripon Bell-Ringer Handicap

With three wins in the last eight runnings of this race, Tim Easterby is certainly a trainer to look out for in this 1 mile 4 furlong Class 3 handicap and I'm going to keep things simple by siding with his runner PER CONTRA at around 8/1. The five year old certainly isn't a prolific winner so if all eight go to post he may be worth siding with each way, but he has been slipping down the weights and could be weighted now to strike.

He's joint top rated in the field on RPR's and clear top rated by Topspeed and is pretty adaptable in terms of ground conditions. With David Allan on board, he looks to have plenty in his favour to run well at a decent price.

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Racing Tips Today - Friday 17th July 2026

2026-07-17T09:37:26+01:00

A blockbuster nine-meeting Friday card with 61 races. Newbury's Listed Rose Bowl Stakes headlines the afternoon action alongside Haydock, Nottingham and Wolverhampton, before Hamilton's Scottish Stewards' Cup and Glasgow Stakes (Listed) light up the evening. Newmarket, Pontefract, Down Royal and Killarney complete the offering. Plenty for the tipsters to work through as Farringdon remains top of the naps leaderboard.

Read on to find out more about today's tips, naps table selections and latest racing round up.

Today’s NAPs Table - Top 3

The Morning Star's Farringdon remains in top spot in the season-long competition with +£47.34 to level stakes, going in today on Regally Blonde in the Nottingham 15:27. The Racing Post's Newmarket man sits second on +£41.06 thanks to a fine 40-33 record and a season-best seven-NAP winning streak, siding with Tawakal in Nottingham's EBF Maiden Stakes. Ian Gaughran of the Irish Herald rounds out the top three on +£36.87, opposing the panel with Masego at Down Royal.

Tipster	NAP	Race/Time	Odds	P&L £
Farringdon (Morning Star)	Regally Blonde	15:27 Nottingham	5/1	+£47.34
Newmarket (Racing Post)	Tawakal	14:52 Nottingham	8/13	+£41.06
Ian Gaughran (Irish Herald)	Masego	19:24 Down Royal	2/1	+£36.87

NAPs Table

Templegate & Other Big-Name NAPs

The big-name tipsters cluster around Newbury's Listed Rose Bowl Stakes at 16:10 and Hamilton's Scottish Stewards' Cup at 19:15 — both races have drawn multi-way splits with no clear consensus. Templegate goes north for Hamilton, while Newsboy heads late on to Newmarket.

Templegate (The Sun) NAP: Manila Scouse, Hamilton 19:15
Newsboy (Daily Mirror) NAP: Rose Of Honour, Newmarket 20:08
Robin Goodfellow (Daily Mail) NAP: Nabati, Newbury 16:10

Racing News Round-Up

Cheltenham have created a plan to deal with the problemtaic starts at the Cheltenham Festival.
Trainer George Scott states Bay City Roller as "highly unlikely" to contest the King george at Ascot a week tomorrow due to the likely fast ground.
Tributes continue to pour in for Joe Fanning who announced his decision to retire from race riding this week.

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What is the Triple Crown in Horse Racing?

2026-07-16T15:57:11+01:00

In British horse racing, the Triple Crown is the incredibly rare achievement where a three-year-old wins three Classics during the season. The colts’ Triple Crown consists of the 2000 Guineas at Newmarket, the Derby at Epsom and Doncaster’s St Leger.

Fillies can technically compete in the colts races but they have the option of winning the fillies’ only 1000 Guineas, Oaks and the St Leger instead.

The term originates from 1853 in Britain after West Australia landed the big race treble.

Leg	Race	Course	Distance	Time of year
1st	2000 Guineas	Newmarket (Rowley Mile)	1 mile	May
2nd	Derby	Epsom	1m4f	June
3rd	St Leger	Doncaster	1m61/2f	September

The programme is specifically cultivated to increase in distance throughout the season as three-year-olds are still relatively young horses and they will improve and strengthen as the year develops, so the Triple Crown culminates in the longest race in September.

Leg 1 - 2000 Guineas

It takes a significant amount of ability and speed in order to win the 2000 Guineas at Newmarket and the first leg is definitely the fastest. Run over a mile on Newmarket’s Rowley Mile course in May, it’s a key early season target for the previous year’s best juveniles.

Leg 2 - Derby

In many ways, the Derby at Epsom is the ultimate test of a racehorse, as you need the speed required in order to not fall behind early on but the stamina to stay 1m4f too. The track does its very best to unbalance horses, which adds a significant dimension to the challenge.

Leg 3 - St Leger

This is one for the stayers and it tends to be won by horses who go on to compete over two miles or further. Doncaster’s biggest race is actually the oldest of the Triple Crown legs and the extended 1m6f trip provides a severe test of a horse’s stamina.

Why the Triple Crown is so rarely won

The main reason that a colt hasn’t won the Triple Crown is because of how meticulously racehorses are bred. Breeding a horse to have the speed required to win a Group 1 over a mile and the stamina to stay 1m6f is borderline impossible and luck plays a big factor.

Every trainer wants to win the 2000 Guineas and the precocious, speedier three-year-olds tend to come to the fore, which means it can be hard for the 1m4f-1m6f type horses to compete.

A lot of Guineas winners don’t run in the Derby and even fewer in the St Leger.

Recent big race trends suggest that Derby trials over 1m2f or 1m4f are better at producing Derby winners than the 2000 Guineas and even those who managed to win the first two legs were mostly campaigned over trips between a mile and 1m4f.

The short answer is that most horses are so unsuited by trying to win Group 1s over all three distances that most owners and trainers don’t even attempt to win all three.

Aidan O’Brien’s Camelot was the last horse to give it a good go and he won the Guineas and the Derby, before falling agonisingly short in the St Leger at Doncaster. Nashwan and Sea The Stars did the Guinea/Derby double but didn’t line up in the Doncaster Classic.

Fillies’ Triple Crown

Fillies are eligible to run in the 2000 Guineas and the Derby but there are fillies-only alternatives which represent an easier route for them to complete a Triple Crown.

The 1000 Guineas at Newmarket and the Oaks at Epsom are the first two legs but they still need to beat the boys in the St Leger at Doncaster. Henry Cecil’s Oh So Sharp managed to pull it off in 1985 and her legendary status has led to a race being named after her.

British Triple Crown vs American Triple Crown

There’s also a Triple Crown in American racing but that version differs quite a bit to the British one and is significantly easier to achieve. The hardest part of winning the US Triple Crown is that all three legs take place within a relatively short period of time.

Feature	British Triple Crown	US Triple Crown
Races	2000 Guineas, Derby and St Leger	Kentucky Derby, Belmont Stakes and Preakness Stakes
Timespan	May-September	May-June
Surface	Turf	Dirt
Distance range	1m-1m6f	1m1f-1m4f
Core Test	Complete test	Hardiness
Last winner	Nijinsky (1970)	Justify (2018)

Conclusion: The Ultimate test of a racehorse?

Britain’s Triple Crown is a completely different animal to the US equivalent and there’s a reason that horses don’t even attempt to pull it off. The Classics are so important from a breeding point of view, which is why geldings can’t run and stud value is such a priority.

The likes of Nijinsky and Oh So Sharp really were the ultimate equine performers and any horse that has the speed to win a Guineas but the stamina to win the St Leger truly deserves his or her place in the pantheon of all-time greats.

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What Does Yielding Mean in Horse Racing?

2026-07-16T15:48:00+01:00

The term Yielding in relation to the going in horse racing describes ground with a degree of give in it - softer than Good, firmer than Soft. British racegoers would commonly equate Yielding ground to being Good to Soft.

Ground conditions in horse racing are a key factor for punters to consider as they weigh up which horses will be suited and yielding is the main differential in the Irish going scale when comparing UK vs Irish going terms.

Yielding on the Going Scale

In horse racing the Going Scale is used to describe ground conditions at every race meeting. The scale runs from the hardest to softest levels of turf surface.

This is vital information for jockeys, trainers and punters alike. Below are the various readings on the Going Scale used in both Britain and Ireland.

British term	Irish term	Type of Ground
Firm	Firm	Dry, fast ground. Suits horses that like speed.
Good to Firm	Good to Firm	Mostly firm with a little give.
Good	Good	Balanced conditions - not too hard or too soft. Often considered "ideal" for racing.
Good to Soft	Good to Yielding	Slightly softer, typically after some rain.
Soft	Yielding	Soft or wet ground that slows horses down.
Heavy	Heavy	Very testing and physically demanding.

Why Irish and British Ground Don't Always Match

Yielding ground in Ireland is viewed as equivalent to a British racecourse being Good to Soft. They are placed alongside each other on the Going Scale but perhaps are not completely like for like. The climate in Ireland means turf can retain more moisture, so Yielding ground in Ireland can ride slightly slower than Good to Soft ground would in Britain. Assuming like for like conditions isn't certain and punters should not compare horses' performances as such.

How the Going Is Decided

The official going description for every race meeting must be declared by the Clerk of the Course. To do this, the clerk walks the track to assess the moisture content and also uses an electronic device known as a GoingStick that objectively measures the firmness or softness of the turf by giving a numerical reading and assists the Clerk in making a decision.

Racecourses are vast expanses and therefore the turf condition is not always uniform in all areas, hence the going description sometimes includes "in places" to describe isolated areas that may differ from the overall description, for example ground could be "Good to Soft, Soft in places" noting the prospect of slightly different underfoot conditions in some parts of the track.

During a race meeting, the Clerk of the Course is responsible for monitoring the official going. This can be altered if weather conditions dictate, such as going from soft ground horse racing to heavy ground horse racing on a day with persistent rain after racing starts.

What Yielding Ground Means for Your Bet

Assessing ground conditions should be a key factor for punters before they bet, as certain horses perform better on their preferred going or close to it. On Yielding ground the surface has some give, so it slows horses down a touch and places more emphasis on stamina. Some horses need cut or give in the ground, others are inconvenienced by it. Always consider the going when studying form and, when looking at Irish racing, know how to identify the characteristics of yielding ground.

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England Betting Offers Today: 66/1 England Win The World Cup, Free Bets, Boosts & More for Argentina Semi Final

2026-07-15T10:16:00+01:00

England take on Argentina for a place in the World Cup final tonight with kick off scheduled for 8pm UK time. If you want to place a bet on the match and get maximum value by way of a free bet or promotion, you're in the right place. We've rounded up the best enhanced odds specials, free bets and odds boosts in this article.

Whilst some of these offers are aimed at new sign-ups, there are a number of betting offers available to existing customers too. Read on for details.

Ladbrokes: 66/1 England to Win the World Cup

Ladbrokes are continuing to give new customers the chance to back England to win the 2026 World Cup at enhanced odds of 66/1. Just register and place a £1 qualifying bet to take part and if the Three Lions lift the trophy, the standard return will be paid in cash, with 13 x £5 Free Bets added to bring the total payout up to 66/1.

Sky Bet: £30 in Free Bets + EVS Bellingham To Have A Shot On Target inc. Extra Time (was 4/9)

Tonight's Sky Bet Super Boost allows you to back Jude Bellingham to have at least one shot on target tonight, including extra time, at even money instead of 4/9. If you've not got an account, you can take up their £30 welcome offer that requires a qualifying stake of just 5p.

Betfred: £50 in Free Bets + EVS Kane & Messi Each Have 1+ Shots On Target inc. Extra Time (was 1/2)

Betfred are combining Kane and Messi into their Turbo Boost for tonight's game with evens available for each of them to have a shot on target tonight, including extra time. There's a really generous sign up offer available too. Join and place a £10 qualifying bet to get £50 in free bets.

Midnite: £30 in Free Bets + 2/1 Kane, Bellingham & Messi Each Have 1+ Shots on Target in 90 Mins (was EVS)

Midnite offer daily super boosts on the top football, racing and sport action so it's well worth opening an account with them if you haven't done so already. Tonight's focuses on the high profile trio of Kane, Bellingham and Messi each having a shot on target in normal time. If you sign up to Midnite today, you'll get £30 in free bets when you join and bet £10.

Paddy Power: £30 in Free Bets + EVS Kane & Bellingham Each Have 1+ Shots On Target

Paddy Power have combined England's two start players into their boost for tonight's game with even money available for Kane and Bellingham to each have a shot on target. Not got an account? Sign up today and get £30 in free bets when you place a £5 qualifying bet.

BOYLE Sports: £40 in Free Bets + EVS Kane & Messi Each Have A Shot On Target In 90 Mins (was 2/5)

BOYLE Sports are another operator focusing on a shots on target double for their Super Boost on tonight's game. Not got a BOYLE Sports account? Join today and claim £40 in free bets when you bet just £10.

William Hill: £30 in Free Bets + EVS England Lead At Anytime in 90 Mins (was 4/6)

New customers at William Hill can claim £30 in free bets when signing up and betting £10 plus new and existing players can take evens for England to lead at any point in 90 minutes tonight. There's a 25% Bet Builder boost promotion running too!

More World Cup Free Bet Offers

There are loads more free bet promotions available for tonight's England vs Argentina World Cup semi finals. Here are a few more of our current favourites.

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England vs Argentina Prediction: Betting Tips for the second World Cup semi final

2026-07-15T09:52:00+01:00

England face Argentina in a blockbuster World Cup semi-final at the Atlanta Stadium on Wednesday night, with a place against Spain in Sunday’s final awaiting the winners. Thomas Tuchel’s side have had to battle through successive knockout matches against Mexico and Norway, while defending champions Argentina have also been pushed hard by Cape Verde, Egypt and Switzerland. Harry Kane has been England’s leading attacking threat throughout the tournament and features in two of our three England vs Argentina betting tips.

England vs Argentina Betting Tips

Tip	Selection	Odds
NAP	Harry Kane To Score Anytime	17/10
Next Best	Over 3.5 Cards	1/1
Longshot	Harry Kane To Score And Assist	18/1

Best Bet - Harry Kane To Score Anytime

Harry Kane to score anytime is our best bet for England’s World Cup semi-final against Argentina.

The England captain has scored six goals at the tournament, equalling the record for the most goals scored by an England player at a single major tournament. Kane struck twice against Croatia, added another against Panama, scored a brace against DR Congo and was also on target during England’s dramatic last-16 victory over Mexico.

Kane may have failed to find the net against Norway in the quarter-finals, but that should not be viewed as a major concern. He remains the focal point of England’s attack, is expected to play the full match if required and will take any penalty England are awarded.

Argentina have reached the semi-finals without producing a particularly convincing defensive performance during the knockout rounds. Lionel Scaloni’s team conceded twice against Cape Verde, twice against Egypt and again during their 3-1 extra-time victory over Switzerland.

England should therefore create opportunities, particularly with Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka and Anthony Gordon operating around Kane. The Bayern Munich striker remains one of the best finishers in world football and rarely needs more than one clear opening.

With Kane chasing an outright England major-tournament scoring record and looking to lead his country into a first World Cup final since 1966, HARRY KANE TO SCORE ANYTIME is the standout selection.

Next Best - Over 3.5 Cards

Over 3.5 cards is our next best bet for what promises to be an intense and emotionally charged semi-final.

England and Argentina have one of the most famous rivalries in international football, but the importance of Wednesday’s match is more relevant than anything that happened during their previous World Cup meetings. One mistimed challenge or confrontation could end either nation’s hopes of reaching the final.

England have collected seven yellow cards and one red during the tournament, with Jarell Quansah suspended for this match following his dismissal against Mexico. Argentina have received six yellow cards of their own and have been involved in several physical knockout contests.

Argentina’s midfield is packed with players who are willing to disrupt attacks and contest every loose ball. Rodrigo De Paul, Leandro Paredes, Alexis Mac Allister and Enzo Fernandez could all be required to stop England’s runners breaking forward, while Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez are naturally aggressive central defenders.

England may also be forced into tactical fouls when Lionel Messi, Julian Alvarez and Fernandez find space between the lines. Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson will have significant defensive responsibilities, while England’s full-backs could be exposed whenever Argentina transition quickly.

American referee Ismail Elfath will take charge of the contest. Elfath showed three yellow cards during the Netherlands versus Japan group game and later dismissed Agustin Canobbio during Uruguay’s defeat to Spain.

Four cards is not an especially demanding total for a World Cup semi-final involving two physical teams, making OVER 3.5 CARDS our next best selection.

Longshot: Harry Kane To Score And Assist

Harry Kane to score and assist is our longshot selection for England versus Argentina.

Kane is primarily judged by his goals, but his ability to drop into midfield and create opportunities for England’s other attackers remains an important part of his game. The 32-year-old regularly moves away from the opposing centre-backs before playing passes into the space created behind them.

That movement could be particularly effective against an aggressive Argentina defence. Romero and Lisandro Martinez will want to follow Kane and prevent him from receiving possession, but doing so could create room for Bellingham, Saka or Gordon to attack the penalty area.

Kane has already registered an assist during this World Cup alongside his six goals. He has the passing range to release England’s wide players, while his hold-up play provides Bellingham with opportunities to run beyond him from the number ten position.

There should also be opportunities for Kane to create a goal from a second ball or cutback if England are forced to chase the match. Argentina have conceded five times across their three knockout games and have looked vulnerable whenever opponents have attacked them with numbers.

The scoring element is naturally the more likely half of this selection, with Kane in outstanding form and responsible for penalties. Adding an assist significantly increases the difficulty, but it also produces the bigger price required from a genuine longshot.

For those searching for a higher-priced Kane angle, HARRY KANE TO SCORE AND ASSIST is the pick at a huge 18/1 with William Hill.

England Team News

Declan Rice is expected to be available after overcoming the sickness bug that limited him to 45 minutes against Norway. The Arsenal midfielder has also been managing hamstring, back and calf discomfort, but returned to training ahead of the semi-final.

Jordan Henderson will miss the remainder of the tournament after undergoing surgery on the arm injury he suffered following England’s victory over Mexico. Jarell Quansah is suspended as he serves the second match of his extended two-game ban.

Reece James made his return from injury as a substitute against Norway and is competing with Ezri Konsa for the right-back position. Bukayo Saka is also pushing to replace Noni Madueke after making a positive impact from the bench in the quarter-finals.

Predicted England XI: Pickford; James, Konsa, Guehi, O’Reilly; Anderson, Rice; Saka, Bellingham, Gordon; Kane.

Argentina Team News

Lionel Messi is expected to start despite receiving treatment for a facial injury during Argentina’s quarter-final victory over Switzerland. The Argentina captain completed the full 120 minutes and has been passed fit for the semi-final.

Cristian Romero appeared exhausted before being replaced during extra-time against Switzerland, meaning Facundo Medina could be considered alongside Lisandro Martinez in central defence.

Julian Alvarez is expected to continue alongside Messi in attack, with Lautaro Martinez providing an alternative from the bench. De Paul, Mac Allister, Paredes and Fernandez are competing for places in a narrow midfield.

Predicted Argentina XI: E. Martinez; Molina, Medina, Lisandro Martinez, Tagliafico; Paredes; De Paul, Mac Allister; Fernandez; Alvarez, Messi.

England vs Argentina FAQs

When is England vs Argentina?

England versus Argentina takes place on Wednesday, July 15, 2026.

What time does England vs Argentina kick off?

The World Cup semi-final kicks off at 8pm BST.

Where is England vs Argentina being played?

The match is being played at the Atlanta Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia.

What TV channel is England vs Argentina on?

England versus Argentina will be shown live in the United Kingdom on BBC One. The match will also be available to stream through BBC iPlayer.

Who will the winner of England vs Argentina play in the final?

The winner will face Spain in the World Cup final on Sunday, July 19. Spain secured their place by defeating France 2-0 in the first semi-final.

Who is the referee for England vs Argentina?

American official Ismail Elfath has been appointed as the referee.

Will England vs Argentina go to extra-time?

Extra-time will be played if the scores are level after 90 minutes. A penalty shootout will decide the winner if the match remains level after extra-time.

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Racing Tips Today - Wednesday 15 July 2026

2026-07-15T08:35:00+01:00

Wednesday’s racing brings a busy midweek programme, with racing tips today covering Catterick, Bath, Uttoxeter, Killarney, Lingfield and Yarmouth. There is afternoon Flat action at Catterick and Bath, summer jumps at Uttoxeter and a strong evening spread across Britain and Ireland, while the NAPs table has Farringdon still leading the way.

Today’s NAPs Table - Top 3

The top of the NAPs table has a strong Bath feel on Wednesday, with Farringdon leading the way courtesy of Safari Dream in the 14:31. Newmarket sits second with short-priced Bath runner Campeona, while Jeffrey Ross completes the leading trio with Redbarn in the Uttoxeter bumper.

Tipster	NAP	Race/Time	Odds	P&L £
Farringdon	Safari Dream	14:31 Bath	4/1	+£46.47
Newmarket	Campeona	16:01 Bath	4/9	+£41.81
Jeffrey Ross	Redbarn	17:25 Uttoxeter	6/4	+£37.56

NAPs Table

Templegate & Other Big Name NAPs

There are also a few familiar newspaper names worth noting away from the top three. Templegate heads to Catterick with South Shore, who is chasing a hat-trick after a strong start for Robert Cowell, while Robin Goodfellow goes to Yarmouth with Dark Side Thunder. Newsboy is also focused on Catterick and puts up Naval Light in the 16:10.

Templegate: South Shore, 16:40 Catterick, 2/1
Robin Goodfellow: Dark Side Thunder, 19:40 Yarmouth, 7/2
Newsboy: Naval Light, 16:10 Catterick, 7/2

Racing News Round-Up

Irish Oaks field takes shape: Saturday’s Juddmonte Irish Oaks is now firmly on the horizon at the Curragh, with 11 fillies in the mix for the Group 1 Classic. The race has become the main Flat focus of the week, with Ribblesdale Stakes winner Earth among the key names and the final shape of the field now starting to come together.
Goodwood Festival build-up continues: Attention is also beginning to turn towards the Qatar Goodwood Festival later this month. The five-day meeting runs from Tuesday 28 July to Saturday 1 August and includes 13 Group contests, with the Sussex Stakes one of the headline Group 1 races of the week.

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France vs Spain Prediction: Betting Tips for the first World Cup semi final

2026-07-14T13:45:00+01:00

France and Spain meet in Dallas tonight for a place in the 2026 World Cup final, with the two European heavyweights taking contrasting routes into the last four.

France have been the tournament’s most devastating attacking team, scoring 16 goals and winning all six of their matches. Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise have supplied the quality in the final third, while Didier Deschamps’ side have also kept three consecutive clean sheets during the knockout rounds.

Spain have built their challenge around control and defensive organisation. Luis de la Fuente’s men conceded their first goal of the tournament against Belgium in the quarter-finals, having previously gone five successive matches without being breached. However, late winners from Mikel Merino were required to eliminate both Portugal and Belgium.

Here we preview the huge matchup and give our best bets...

France vs Spain Betting Tips

Selection	Tip	Odds
Best Bet	France to Win	7/5
Next Best	Kylian Mbappé First Goalscorer	4/1
Longshot	France to Win 1-0	19/2

France vs Spain Prediction

Spain should see more of the ball, but France appear better equipped to exploit the defining moments of a tight semi-final. Les Bleus can defend in a compact shape before attacking quickly through Mbappé, Dembélé and Olise, forcing Spain’s full-backs to be cautious about pushing forward. La Roja have the technical quality to control the tempo, although their patient approach may struggle to create clear openings against Saliba and Upamecano. With both teams likely to prioritise avoiding an early mistake, the contest could remain level deep into the second half. France’s superior pace in transition and greater range of attacking options from the bench may eventually produce the decisive breakthrough.

Prediction: France 1-0 Spain

Best Bet - Match Result - France

France have looked like the most complete team at the 2026 World Cup and are backed to secure a third consecutive appearance in the final.

Didier Deschamps’ side have won all six of their matches inside normal time, scoring 16 goals and conceding only twice. Their attacking statistics are particularly impressive, with France registering 47 shots on target and creating more expected goals than any other nation at the tournament.

There has also been a notable improvement defensively since the knockout stages began. France beat Sweden 3-0, Paraguay 1-0 and Morocco 2-0, demonstrating that they can control tighter matches rather than simply attempting to overwhelm opponents.

Spain will present their toughest test. La Roja are unbeaten in 36 matches and have won seven of their previous ten meetings with France, including the Euro 2024 semi-final and the 2025 Nations League final.

Nevertheless, Spain have not been as fluent going forward as France. They required late Merino goals to overcome Portugal and Belgium, while Lamine Yamal has yet to reproduce his best form consistently.

France’s greater attacking variety could ultimately decide the contest. Mbappé, Dembélé and Olise can all create something from nothing, while Bradley Barcola, Désiré Doué and Rayan Cherki provide Deschamps with game-changing options from the bench.

At 13/10, France are the selection to win within 90 minutes.

Next Best - Mbappe First Goalscorer

Kylian Mbappé is a clear candidate to open the scoring after producing another exceptional World Cup campaign.

The France captain has scored eight goals from 30 attempts, placing 19 of those shots on target. He is also the team’s penalty taker and has scored the opening goal in each of France’s three knockout matches.

Mbappé converted the decisive penalty against Paraguay before breaking Morocco’s resistance with a brilliant finish from outside the penalty area. His combination of speed, movement and finishing ability makes him capable of deciding a match even when clear chances are limited.

Spain’s defensive record demands respect. They have allowed only seven shots on target across six matches and conceded for the first time in the quarter-final victory over Belgium. Pau Cubarsí and Aymeric Laporte have formed a settled partnership, protected by Rodri in midfield.

However, this will be the first time Spain’s high defensive line has faced an attack containing this level of pace. Mbappé will look to move into the space behind Pedro Porro or between the right-back and Cubarsí whenever France regain possession.

France may not create their usual volume of opportunities, but the best of those chances are likely to fall to their number ten. Mbappé has already opened the scoring five times during the tournament and can do so again at 4/1.

Longshot - 1-0 France Correct Score

A 1-0 France victory combines the strength of Spain’s defence with the increased control Les Bleus have shown during the knockout rounds.

Spain have conceded just once at the tournament and have restricted their opponents to an average of little more than one shot on target per match. France are unlikely to enjoy the same freedom they experienced during the group stage, particularly with Rodri shielding a compact Spanish defence.

France have also become increasingly difficult to break down. William Saliba and Dayot Upamecano have helped Les Bleus record three successive knockout clean sheets, while Adrien Rabiot and either Manu Koné or Aurélien Tchouaméni provide protection in front of the back four.

Spain should dominate stretches of possession, but keeping the ball will not necessarily translate into clear opportunities. De la Fuente’s side have relied on late interventions from Merino in their previous two matches, while Yamal, Dani Olmo and Mikel Oyarzabal have not consistently carved open organised defences.

A cautious opening would be no surprise, with neither side wanting to allow the opposition’s dangerous attackers room to counter. France may need to remain patient before Mbappé or another member of their outstanding forward line produces the decisive moment.

The 19/2 available about France winning 1-0 therefore appeals as the longshot selection.

France Team News

Kylian Mbappé picked up a minor ankle problem against Morocco but has played down any concerns and is expected to start.

There is more uncertainty surrounding France’s midfield. Aurélien Tchouaméni has returned to training following a thigh injury, while Manu Koné sustained a minor knee problem during the quarter-final. Koné is expected to recover, although Deschamps must decide which player partners Adrien Rabiot.

William Saliba and Dayot Upamecano are also expected to be available after following individual training programmes. Désiré Doué could retain his place on the left following an impressive performance against Morocco.

Predicted France XI: Maignan; Koundé, Upamecano, Saliba, Digne; Koné, Rabiot; Dembélé, Olise, Doué; Mbappé

Spain Team News

Spain have an almost fully fit squad, with winger Victor Muñoz their only significant doubt.

Pedri is pushing to return in midfield after Fabián Ruiz started the quarter-final, while Merino’s two late winning goals have presented De la Fuente with another selection decision. However, the Arsenal midfielder may continue in his role as an influential substitute.

Nico Williams and Yeremy Pino are available again but are likely to begin on the bench. Álex Baena should retain his place on the left, with Yamal starting from the opposite flank and Oyarzabal leading the attack.

Predicted Spain XI: Simón; Porro, Cubarsí, Laporte, Cucurella; Rodri, Pedri; Yamal, Olmo, Baena; Oyarzabal

France vs Spain Frequently Asked Questions

When does France vs Spain kick off?

France vs Spain kicks off at 8pm BST on Tuesday, 14 July 2026.

Where is France vs Spain being played?

The World Cup semi-final is being played at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

What TV channel is France vs Spain on?

The match will be shown live in the UK on ITV1, with online streaming available through ITVX.

Who will France or Spain play in the World Cup final?

The winner will face either England or Argentina in the World Cup final on Sunday, 19 July.

What are the France vs Spain match odds?

France are approximately 13/10 favourites to win in normal time. The draw is available at around 9/4, with Spain also priced at approximately 9/4. Odds are subject to change.

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France v Spain World Cup Betting Offers: Odds Boosts, Free Bets & More for the 1st Semi Final

2026-07-14T10:21:00+01:00

France face Spain in the first semi final of the 2026 World Cup tonight with a place in the final up for grabs to face either England or Argentina. If you want to place a bet on the match and get maximum value by way of a free bet or promotion, you're in the right place. We've pulled together the best free bets, odds boosts and other World Cup betting offers in this article.

Whilst a number of these offers are aimed at new sign-ups, there are plenty available to existing customers too. Read on for more details.

Betfred: £50 in Free Bets + EVS Mbappe To Score Or Assist (was 8/13)

Betfred have a fantastic Turbo Boost on tonight's game focused on Kylian Mbappe. They've enhanced the French superstar from 8/13 to evens to score or assist. There's a very generous "bet £10 get £50 in free bets" available to new customers too.

Midnite: £30 in Free Bets + 2/1 Mbappe, Yamal & Olise Each 1+ Shots On Target (was 6/5)

Midnite have pulled together this very attractive looking treble for Mbappe, Yamal and Olise each to have a shot on target in tonight's match. Midnite offer daily boosts like this so its well worth signing up if you haven't already. You can claim £30 in free bets when you stake £10.

William Hill: £30 in Free Bets + EVS France to Lead At Anytime (was 4/7)

France are the favourites to overcome Spain in tonight's World Cup semi final but for this William Hill boost to pay out, you only need them to lead at any point in the match not at the final whistle. Not got an account? Join today and get £30 in free bets when you place a £10 qualifying bet.

BOYLE Sports: £40 in Free Bets + 50% Bet Builder Boost

Place a Bet Builder on France v Spain tonight at BOYLE Sports and you'll get a 50% winnings boost of your selection wins. There's a fantastic welcome offer too with £40 in free bets available when you join and place a £10 qualifying bet.

Sky Bet: £30 in Free Bets + 25% Boost on Your BuildABet

Existing Sky Bet customers can opt-in today to get a 25% boost on a France v Spain BuildABet. If you've not got an account, you can sign up and get £30 in free bets when ypu place any qualifying bet of just 5p or more.

Paddy Power: £30 in Free Bets + 6/4 Mbappe, Dembele & Yamal 1+ Shots On Target Each

Paddy Power have loads of odds boosts available on tongiht's match including this one focusing on the three headline names across the French and Spanish attacks. If you don't have an account, you can join today and get £30 in free bets when you bet £5.

England Free Bet Offers

With England facing Argentina in the second semi final on Wednesday, don't miss out on these fantatsic offers from Ladbrokes and Coral. Be quick though, the Coral offer expires at kick off of the France v Spain game.

Coral: 66/1 England Reach The Final

Coral are channeling the spirit of 1966 with their 66/1 welcome offer of England reaching the final. Sign up before kick off in the France v Spain match and place a £1 bet to qualify. The winnings will be paid in cash at the standard odds and topped up to the boosted price via 13x £5 free bets.

Ladbrokes: 66/1 England to Lift the World Cup

Ladbrokes is giving new customers the chance to back England to lift the World Cup at 66/1. Register and place a £1 qualifying bet to take part and if the Three Lions lift the trophy, the standard return will be paid in cash, with 13 x £5 Free Bets added to bring the total payout up to the boosted price.

More World Cup Free Bet Offers

There are loads of free bets available to be redeemed for the remainder of the World Cup. Here are some of our favourites.

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Racing Tips Today - Tuesday 14 July 2026

2026-07-14T09:40:00+01:00

Tuesday’s racing brings another busy summer programme, with racing tips today covering Downpatrick, Beverley, Leicester, Ffos Las, Killarney and Wolverhampton. There is jumps action in Ireland, afternoon Flat cards across Britain and a busy evening spread, while the NAPs table has Farringdon still setting the pace at the top.

Today’s NAPs Table - Top 3

The top of the NAPs table has a strong evening feel on Tuesday, with Farringdon leading the way courtesy of Educate in the 19:55 at Wolverhampton. Newmarket sits second with Melting Snow at Beverley, while Jeffrey Ross completes the leading trio with Sugar Sugar earlier on the Wolverhampton card.

Tipster	NAP	Race/Time	Odds	P&L £
Farringdon	Educate	19:55 Wolverhampton	9/1	+£47.47
Newmarket	Melting Snow	15:48 Beverley	3/1	+£42.81
Jeffrey Ross	Sugar Sugar	17:25 Wolverhampton	9/2	+£38.56

NAPs Table

Templegate & Other Big Name NAPs

There are also a few familiar newspaper names worth noting away from the top three. Templegate heads to Wolverhampton with Classy Clarets, who is chasing a hat-trick in the 19:25, while Robin Goodfellow and Newsboy both focus on the Beverley finale with The Sweet Escape and Thornaby Annie.

Templegate: Classy Clarets, 19:25 Wolverhampton, 7/4
Robin Goodfellow: The Sweet Escape, 16:58 Beverley, 6/5
Newsboy: Thornaby Annie, 16:58 Beverley, 10/3

Racing News Round-Up

Goodwood Festival build-up continues: Attention is already starting to turn towards the Qatar Goodwood Festival later this month, with the five-day meeting set to provide the next major midsummer Flat racing highlight. The Sussex Stakes is the headline Group 1 of the week, while the meeting also includes a strong mix of Group races and competitive handicaps.
Wolverhampton takes evening focus: Wolverhampton has a busy seven-race all-weather card on Tuesday evening and it features two of the top three NAPs table selections. Jeffrey Ross puts up Sugar Sugar in the 17:25, while table leader Farringdon relies on Educate in the 19:55, giving the Tapeta card extra betting interest later in the day.

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Racing Tips Today - Monday 13 July 2026

2026-07-13T09:16:02+01:00

Monday’s racing brings a steady start to the week, with racing tips today covering Ayr, Newton Abbot, Killarney, Windsor and Lingfield. There is afternoon Flat action in Scotland, jumps racing at Newton Abbot, and a busy evening spread across Britain and Ireland, while the NAPs table has Farringdon still setting the pace after another profitable spell.

Today’s NAPs Table - Top 3

The top of the NAPs table has a strong Windsor feel on Monday, with Farringdon leading the way courtesy of Silent City in the 20:20. Newmarket is close behind with Levens Hall earlier on the same card, while Jeffrey Ross completes the leading trio with Ocean Rose in the Newton Abbot finale.

Tipster	NAP	Race/Time	Odds	P&L £
Farringdon	Silent City	20:20 Windsor	10/11	+£48.47
Newmarket	Levens Hall	17:50 Windsor	10/11	+£41.56
Jeffrey Ross	Ocean Rose	17:15 Newton Abbot	14/1	+£39.56

NAPs Table

Templegate & Other Big Name NAPs

There are also a few familiar newspaper names worth noting away from the top three. Templegate heads to Ayr with Spiritoftheblues, Robin Goodfellow is also focused on the Scottish card with Woohoo, and Newsboy goes to Windsor with Papa Cocktail in the 19:20.

Templegate: Spiritoftheblues, 16:30 Ayr, 11/4
Robin Goodfellow: Woohoo, 14:30 Ayr, 15/8
Newsboy: Papa Cocktail, 19:20 Windsor, 9/2

Racing News Round-Up

Comanche Brave lands July Cup: The big weekend story came at Newmarket, where Comanche Brave won the July Cup for Donnacha O’Brien and Billy Loughnane. The 11/1 winner got the better of Venetian Sun and Japanese sprinter Satono Reve, giving both trainer and jockey a major Group 1 moment on the July Course.
Newmarket form takes centre stage: The July Festival is now in the rear-view mirror, but the results from the meeting are likely to shape the second half of the Flat season. Comanche Brave’s July Cup win has shaken up the sprinting picture, while strong performances across the Superlative Stakes, Bunbury Cup and supporting races have given punters plenty to digest heading into the next major summer targets.

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Norway vs England Prediction: Betting Tips, Team News & Odds

2026-07-10T17:15:00+01:00

Norway take on England in the Nordic nation's first ever World Cup quarter final, and this match has been billed as a battle of the heavyweight strikers. Erling Haaland has been the driving force behind Norway's extended run, including a brilliant brace against Brazil last time out, while England's talismanic captain has just one goal less than the hulking Norwegian as he hunts a second World Cup Golden Boot.

Both marksmen will be crucial to their sides' chances of advancing to the final four and, unsurprisingly, both feature prominently in our predictions and betting tips for the epic Saturday night shootout between Norway and England.

Norway vs England Betting Tips

Market	Selection	Best Odds
Best Bet	Both Teams To Score - Yes	8/11
Next Best	Erling Haaland Anytime Goalscorer	13/10
Longshot	England To Win From Behind	9/1

Norway and England meet in a fascinating World Cup quarter-final which could develop into one of the most open games of the round. Norway possess an obvious cutting edge through Erling Haaland, while England have enough attacking quality of their own to punish any spaces left at the other end. Neither defence looks completely trustworthy when placed under sustained pressure, so goals for both teams are firmly on the cards.

England may ultimately have the greater depth and variety in the final third, but Norway are more than capable of striking first and forcing the Three Lions to respond. That makes Haaland the standout goalscorer selection, while England coming from behind offers an appealing bigger-priced angle.

Our Norway vs England predictions can be found below.

Norway vs England Prediction

England arrive at this World Cup quarter-final as favourites to progress, but Norway have already shown that reputation counts for very little in this tournament. The Three Lions possess the deeper squad and greater variety in attack, yet this has the feel of a contest in which they may have to survive some uncomfortable moments before their quality eventually tells.

The obvious danger is Erling Haaland. England cannot afford to control possession without controlling the spaces behind their defence, because Norway have the players to release their captain quickly and punish even a minor positional mistake. Martin Odegaard’s passing gives them a route through the first press, while Haaland needs only one clear sight of goal to change the direction of the tie.

England should still create enough opportunities of their own. Their attacking depth allows them to threaten in different ways, whether through direct running from wide areas, combinations around the penalty box or the presence of Harry Kane between the lines. If Norway retreat too deeply, England have the technical quality to sustain pressure and force openings. If Norway push higher, the Three Lions should find room to attack in transition.

That balance makes England the more likely winners, but a clean sheet is difficult to trust against a Norway side playing with confidence and carrying one of the most ruthless forwards in world football. Haaland can give Norway real hope, potentially even putting them ahead, but England’s greater depth and range of attacking options should help them respond and edge a tense quarter-final.

Prediction: England 2-1 Norway

Best Bet - Both Teams To Score

England are the stronger side on paper, but both teams to score looks the most appealing bet in a quarter-final featuring two attacks that are considerably more convincing than the defences behind them. England should enjoy more possession and create the greater volume of chances, yet Norway possess the kind of direct threat that makes a clean sheet very difficult to trust.

Erling Haaland is the obvious danger. He needs very little service to influence a game, while Martin Odegaard has the vision to release him quickly whenever England lose their shape. Norway have already shown they are comfortable attacking space rather than dominating the ball, and that could suit them against an England side expected to push higher up the pitch.

England should also have enough quality to score. Harry Kane remains the focal point, while the pace and creativity around him should cause problems for a Norway defence that may struggle if forced to defend deep for long periods. England can create through sustained pressure, wide combinations and transitions, giving them several routes to goal.

With Norway carrying a world-class finisher and England possessing the deeper, more varied attack, both teams to score looks a stronger play than backing either side to keep a clean sheet.

Next Best - Erling Haaland Anytime Goalscorer

Erling Haaland has been amongst the standout goalscorers at this World Cup and looks worth backing to add to his tally against England at 11/8. The Norway striker has already scored seven times during the tournament, only behind Mbappe in the hunt for the Golden Boot which underlines both his form and his importance to everything his side do in the final third.

Norway are unlikely to dominate possession, but that should not reduce Haaland’s threat. He is at his most dangerous when attacking space, and England may leave opportunities behind their defence as they push forward in search of control. Even if Norway spend long periods without the ball, one accurate pass or quick transition could be enough to put their main striker through on goal.

Haaland also carries the physical profile to trouble England’s centre-backs. His movement across the defensive line, strength inside the penalty area and ability to finish with very little preparation mean he does not require a large number of chances to make an impact. Norway will naturally look for him whenever they win possession in dangerous areas.

At 13/10, the price looks fair for a forward who has already scored seven goals and remains Norway’s clearest route to the semi-finals. Haaland to score at any time is therefore one of the strongest player bets available.

Longshot - England To Win From Behind

England to win from behind looks an interesting longshot at 9/1 in a quarter-final where Norway have every chance of striking first. Erling Haaland has already scored seven goals at this World Cup and gives his side a constant threat on the counter, particularly if England commit numbers forward and leave space behind their defence.

Norway do not need to control possession to create clear chances. Martin Odegaard has the passing range to release Haaland quickly, while England have already shown during this tournament that they can be vulnerable before settling into games. An early Norway goal would not necessarily mean the end of England’s hopes, especially given the depth and attacking quality available to the Three Lions.

England have already produced this exact outcome against DR Congo in the round of 32, recovering from behind to secure victory. That comeback showed their ability to remain patient, increase the pressure and use their superior options from the bench when the match begins to open up.

The likely pattern makes the bet appealing. Norway have the firepower to land the first blow, but England should see more of the ball and possess more ways to change the contest if they fall behind. At 9/1, England to concede first and still win offers an attractive bigger-priced angle.

Norway Team News

Norway appear to have overcome the illness issues which affected members of their camp earlier in the week, with Stale Solbakken expected to have close to a full squad available. David Moller Wolfe has returned to training after being forced off against Brazil, while Andreas Schjelderup is pushing to replace Antonio Nusa after coming from the bench to create both of Erling Haaland’s goals in the round of 16. Haaland will lead the attack, with Martin Odegaard and Sander Berge continuing in midfield.

Predicted Norway XI: Nyland; Ryerson, Ajer, Heggem, Moller Wolfe; Berg, Berge, Odegaard; Sorloth, Haaland, Schjelderup

England Team News

Marc Guehi is a serious doubt after missing England’s final training session with a hamstring problem, which could hand Dan Burn a place alongside Ezri Konsa in central defence. Declan Rice has missed training because of illness but is expected to recover, while Reece James remains a fitness concern following his hamstring injury, so Djed Spence could continue at right-back. Jarell Quansah is suspended following his red card against Mexico, while Jordan Henderson will miss the remainder of the tournament after undergoing surgery on an arm injury.

Predicted England XI: Pickford; Spence, Konsa, Burn, O’Reilly; Rice, Anderson; Saka, Bellingham, Gordon; Kane

Norway vs England Frequently Asked Questions

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ITV Racing Tips: Best Saturday Bets For Newmarket, Ascot & York

2026-07-10T15:02:00+01:00

The UK heatwave is back with a bang, and the action on track is just as hot as one of the best Saturdays of the summer takes place, live on ITV Racing. Newmarket's July Festival concludes, Ascot hosts a fun looking card and the John Smiths sponsored slate at York also takes centre stage. Billy Grimshaw has a best bet at each track.

14:27 Ascot - Summer Mile

The weather will be exactly as you'd expect for a race named the Summer Mile at Ascot - scorching! A fantastic field has also assembled which is a bonus for a race which can sometimes lack a bit of star power, and although he let me down at Royal Ascot and kicked things off in the worst possible way with his Queen Anne flop, I am willing to chance DOCKLANDS once more at the track he is synonymous with.

He does have to beat the horse who finished second that day, More Thunder, who only found 50/1 shock winner Ten Bob Tony too good. I am taking a strong opinion to form my bets, as we so often have to do in this game, and that strong opinion is that the Queen Anne of 2026 was a piece of form worth very little indeed. Ten Bob Tony got his day in the sun, but almost everything in behind disappointed so I am not willing to take it as gospel that More Thunder is the second best older miler - especially at Ascot - this season. Docklands' win in the Queen Anne of 2025 is still the best bit of form in here and while we do have to forgive him this year's race, everyone has off days and 6/1 is a massive each-way price.

Karl Burke has forgotten more about racing than I'll ever know, but I am surprised to see his Queen Anne third Zeus Olympios attempting to tackle a mile once more, on even faster ground too, given h looked a horse crying out for further last time out. I really like this lad and will be backing him when and if he takes up a ten furlong assignment, but think he'll once again be done for speed by More Thunder here and (hopefully) a back to form Docklands.

I may have a few forecasts and tricasts involving Docklands and some of the outsiders, as I am happy to forgive Jonquil his Lockinge flop at the prices given his Ascot form and also just love Seagulls Eleven as a horse; a proper model of consistency. Even Holloway Boy could bounce back given he has Ascot form, albeit he stank the place out last time out and does need to bag the lead.

15:45 York - John Smiths Cup

This is a phenomenal weekend of action for those who love racing, but I must confess I think it's one of the trickiest for punters of the whole year. It's great to see such big fields on the flat - wouldn't the jumps boys love such a luxury - but with the maximum of 22 in here, I am advising you tread lightly regardless of if you back my fancy or have one of your own. There is a case to be made for all the market principles, with Warrant Holder probably the right favourite as his C&D win here two months back was blatantly a strong piece of form and he did his claims no harm in running a stormer for second at Royal Ascot.

He beat Thunder Run that day in May here, who subsequently flopped at Ascot and needs to bounce back but certainly has the ability to do so, but a few lengths further back in fifth was HAVE SECRET for the Fahey team and is a huge price for this contest. In similar fashion to Thunder Run, he bombed out next time - with his assignment at Epsom not Ascot - however, any horse can be forgiven a bad run at Epsom and I do not think he should be five times or bigger the price of the aforementioned duo who were ahead of him last time the trio collided here. He gets a weight swing with both here, has a high draw which I actually think will be advantageous looking at the pace map for this race (all the speedballs are drawn high) and put in almost a career best earlier this season at Pontefract to win by two lengths.

He is more exposed than most in here and was stuffed in this race last year off a one pound lower mark, albeit he was switched all over the track which won't have helped his cause, but we are getting a huge price about him to counteract those negatives and with six places available for each-way backers, he'll be carrying a small amount of my cash.

16:35 Newmarket - July Cup

Venetian Sun was many people's Royal Ascot NAP and duly obliged, albeit she was perhaps not as impressive as many had expected. She is a horse I've always been sweet on and is availablle to back at a much bigger price here than she was in the Commonwealth Cup, however I am ditching her for now as I want to see a real wow performance from her to convince me she has not hit her ceiling. It feels silly to be putting a lid on a three year old filly in mid July, and I am by no means discounting her from the reckoning here, but others make more appeal at bigger odds.

Japanese raider Satono Reve was a hearbreaking second for the second year in succession in the King Charles at the Royal Meeting and probably does set the standard in here, but is stepping into the unknown having a second run overseas and for all he could blow this field away, I am not keen on taking 4/1 to find out if he'll bounce or not. The horse in here that made the biggest impression on me at Royal Ascot was actually MISSION CENTRAL for team Ballydoyle and he'll be the one carrying my cash under Ryan Moore. He was doing all his best work late over five and now faces up to a fair six furlongs, a trip which should suit him down to the ground. Speaking of ground, he'll handle this quick surface no bother which is not something you can say about the favourite.

Double Rush has been a revelation since joining Andrew Balding and could make his mark stepping up from handicaps to this top table, particularly with bundles of fast ground form, so he was on the shortlist along with Division, who finished behind Venetian Sun in the Commonwealth but was caught out a bit when the pace quickened and stayed on powerfully once the penny dropped. He may well reverse that form.

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Argentina vs Switzerland Prediction: Betting Tips for the last World Cup Quarter Final

2026-07-10T09:44:40+01:00

The FIFA World Cup is almost one month old, as we reach the crucial stage of the competition. The quarter finals begin on Thursday, with the final one between Argentina and Switzerland kicking off in the early hours of Sunday morning UK time.

Argentina have been forced to battle to reach this stage, but with the knowledge that Lionel Messi can still pop up with a moment of brilliance, they are armed against any possibility. They now face a resilient Swiss side who will be determined to make this as difficult as possible. A war of attrition may ensue.

Argentina vs Switzerland Betting Tips

Market	Selection	Best Odds
Best Bet	Under 1.5 Goals	2/1
Next Best	Enzo Fernandez Over 0.5 Shots On Target	31/20
Longshot	Argentina 0-0 Switzerland	9/1

Argentina have been involved in two thrillers so far in the knockout rounds. However, but for a few minutes inspiration from their talismanic captain, Argentina were toothless in their last 16 clash and Switzerland will be even more compact than Egypt, offering less on the break. Do not expect many goals.

Find the latest odds for our Argentina vs Switzerland predictions below.

Argentina vs Switzerland Prediction

It has been a little overblown how fortunate Argentina were with refereeing decisions in their win over Egypt. The close calls did land in their favour, but they were not deeply controversial. Even if you believe the referees were with them, their performance was certainly against.

Kylian Mbappe may be the only player other than Lionel Messi capable of the five-minute burst Messi produced as the clock was ticking against Egypt. He is still capable of magic beyond means, which always gives the Albiceleste a chance. However, he has faded gradually as the rounds have gone on.

It is possible that this match may really stretch his fitness and Argentina’s limitations could be exposed by a Switzerland team who know how to dig in. They did so effectively to completely nullify Colombia, and while that came at the expense of their own output, that will not trouble them against Argentina, especially as they have been far leakier than their South American counterparts from the previous round.

Johan Manzambi’s fitness will be crucial to whether the Swiss can offer more going forward. If not, this is likely to be an exercise in patience for both Argentina and the viewers. They should still pass it once again, but it is unlikely to be clear cut, with shots from distance resorted to. It could go all the way to extra time.

Prediction: Argentina 0-0 Switzerland (Argentina win in extra time)

Argentina vs Switzerland Match Odds

Argentina Team News

There are no fresh concerns for Argentina from an injury perspective. Neither Julian Alvarez or Lautaro Martinez have shone up front for Lionel Scaloni’s side and the manager may switch the two once more with Martinez making an impact off the bench against Egypt.

Predicted Argentina XI: Martinez; Molina, Romero, Martinez, Tagliafico; De Paul, Paredes; Messi, Mac Allister, Fernandez; Martinez

Switzerland Team News

Switzerland manager Murat yakin will be hopeful Johan Manzambi is fit to return in time, but the extent of his knee injury remains unknown. It kept him out of the Colombia game and it seems unlikely he will start here. Ruben Vargas should return to the starting XI though, likely in the place of Ardon Jashari.

Predicted Switzerland XI: Kobel; Zakaria, Elvedi, Akanji, Rodriguez; Xhaka, Freuler; Ndoye, Rieder, Vargas; Embolo

Argentina vs Switzerland Head-To-Head

This will be the third World Cup meeting between Argnetina and Switzerland. The first saw the South American nation win 2-0 in 1966, while they secured a 1-0 win after extra time in the last 16 of the 2014 tournament, en route to the final. In seven meetings in total, Argentina are yet to lose.

Who is the Referee for Argentina vs Switzerland?

Portuguese referee Joao Pinheiro will referee the match. He has already taken charge of Switzerland, when they beat Bosnia 4-1, while he also officiated the first knockout match between South Africa and Canada.

Where will Argentina vs Switzerland take place?

The Kansas City Stadium, home of the Chiefs in the NFL, will host this quarter final. It boasts a capacity of over 76,000, with temperatures still as high as 27 degrees Celcius as late as the 8pm kick off time.

Argentina vs Switzerland Frequently Asked Questions

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Spain vs Belgium Prediction: Betting Tips for the Second World Cup Quarter Final

2026-07-09T20:00:01+01:00

The FIFA World Cup quarter finals continue on Friday with two of Europe's big boys, Spain and Belgium, colliding at the Los Angeles Stadium in California. Spain have been an immovable object so far, yet to concede in the tournament, while Belgium started slowly but have come to the boil in the knockouts and blew away host nation USA last time out. We have three betting tips for the mammoth clash.

Spain vs Belgium Betting Tips

Market	Selection	Best Odds
Best Bet	Match Result - Draw	3/1
Next Best	Lamine Yamal Over 4.5 Shots	5/2
Longshot	1-1 Correct Score	15/2

Although both nations started slowly at the 2026 World Cup, there can be no doubt after their differently executed domination of their last sixteen opponents that both are legitimate World Cup contenders. Expect this to be one of the more entertaining clashes in this round, with chances aplenty for both sides and potentially an extra thirty minutes of action.

Our Spain vs Belgium predictions can be found below.

Spain vs Belgium Prediction

Spain arrive at this World Cup quarter final as one of the most polished sides left in the tournament, but this has the feel of a tie that could become far more uncomfortable than the market suggests. Luis de la Fuente’s side have the control, structure and technical security to dominate long spells, yet Belgium have enough quality in transition to make this a proper test.

The obvious difference between the two sides is Spain’s rhythm. With Rodri and Pedri setting the tempo, Lamine Yamal stretching the pitch and Mikel Oyarzabal offering a more natural penalty-box presence, they should be able to pin Belgium back for periods. Spain do not need to play at full throttle to squeeze opponents. They can win territory, recycle possession and slowly turn the pressure into chances.

Belgium, though, are not the ageing side they were accused of being at previous tournaments. There is still experience through Thibaut Courtois, Kevin De Bruyne and Youri Tielemans, but there is also more energy around them now. Charles De Ketelaere has given them a different attacking profile, while Jeremy Doku and Leandro Trossard are both capable of turning a controlled Spain spell into a dangerous counter within seconds.

That is where this game feels awkward for Spain. They should have more of the ball and they should look the cleaner team, but Belgium have enough individual threat to punish one loose pass or one moment of overcommitment. Spain may well go on to progress, but Belgium can make this a long night and force them deeper into the contest than expected.

Best Bet - Match Result - Draw

Spain are the more polished side on paper, but the draw looks the value play in a quarter final that could easily tighten into a tactical arm wrestle. Luis de la Fuente’s team should control large spells through Rodri, Pedri and Dani Olmo, and their ability to dominate possession naturally makes them difficult to beat. However, that does not necessarily make them easy to back at short odds in a knockout tie.

Belgium have enough experience and individual quality to frustrate Spain’s rhythm. Thibaut Courtois gives them a world-class last line of defence, Kevin De Bruyne can still produce the pass that changes a game, and the pace around him gives Belgium a clear counter-attacking route if Spain push too many bodies forward.

Spain may create the cleaner patterns, but Belgium are capable of surviving pressure and landing a punch of their own. With both teams likely to respect the danger on the other side, this could become a cagey contest decided by fine margins rather than sustained dominance.

A draw appeals as the most realistic outcome, with extra time potentially needed to separate two well-balanced European heavyweights.

Next Best - Lamine Yamal Over 4.5 Shots

Lamine Yamal over 4.5 shots looks a bold line at first glance, but there is enough in his role to make it appealing. Spain should dominate possession for long periods, and so much of their attacking play naturally funnels towards Yamal on the right. He is not just a touchline winger asked to create for others. He constantly comes inside onto his left foot, attacks the edge of the box and is encouraged to shoot when defenders back off.

Belgium’s defensive shape could also suit this bet. They are likely to spend spells without the ball, protecting the middle and trying to force Spain wide. That should give Yamal plenty of opportunities to receive possession in one-v-one situations against a retreating back line, where his first instinct is often to shift the ball and get an effort away.

There is also the game-state angle. If this becomes as tight as expected, Spain may need patience rather than clear-cut chances, which increases the appeal of a high-volume shooter from distance and half-spaces. Yamal has already shown at this tournament that he is willing to take responsibility in the final third, and in a match Spain should control, five shots is well within reach.

Longshot - 1-1 Correct Score

The 1-1 correct score looks a lively longshot in a quarter final that has all the ingredients for a tight, high-quality draw. Spain should see more of the ball and dictate the rhythm, but Belgium are not a side that need sustained pressure to score. With Kevin De Bruyne’s passing range, Charles De Ketelaere’s movement and pace in the wide areas, they have the tools to hurt Spain if the favourites leave space behind.

Spain’s possession game makes them strong favourites to create chances, especially through Lamine Yamal and Dani Olmo between the lines. However, Belgium have enough defensive experience to avoid being completely overrun. Thibaut Courtois remains a major factor in games like this, and if Belgium can keep their shape, Spain may have to work hard for every clear opening.

A 1-1 scoreline also fits the likely flow of the match. Spain can control territory without necessarily turning that dominance into a comfortable win, while Belgium’s counter-attacking threat gives them a realistic route to one goal. In a knockout game where neither side will want to make the fatal mistake, a tense 1-1 draw feels a very plausible outcome.

Spain Team News

Nico Williams remains a doubt for Spain and is still short of full fitness, so Alex Baena could continue on the left, with Lamine Yamal starting from the right. Mikel Merino scored the winner off the bench against Portugal, but Luis de la Fuente is likely to keep faith with his settled midfield, meaning Pedri, Rodri and Dani Olmo should all start.

Predicted Spain XI: Simon; Porro, Cubarsi, Laporte, Cucurella; Rodri, Pedri; Yamal, Olmo, Baena; Oyarzabal

Belgium Team News

Amadou Onana has been ruled out after suffering an ACL injury against the USA, leaving Rudi Garcia with a midfield decision to make. Kevin De Bruyne could return to the starting line-up after being left on the bench last time out, while Charles De Ketelaere is expected to continue as the false nine after scoring twice against the USA. Romelu Lukaku may again be used from the bench.

Predicted Belgium XI: Courtois; Castagne, Ngoy, Mechele, De Cuyper; Vanaken, Tielemans; Lukebakio, De Bruyne, Trossard; De Ketelaere

Spain vs Belgium Frequently Asked Questions

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ITV Racing Tips: Friday Best Bets For Day 2 Of Newmarket July Festival

2026-07-09T16:00:00+01:00

The July Festival at Newmarket continues on Friday as we build up to July Cup day - a wonderful appetiser in the sporting world for the huge England World Cup quarter final with Norway - and Billy Grimshaw once again has found two worthy of support at the home of flat racing.

13:50 Newmarket - Oddschecker Handicap

He is a touch shorter than I'd like to be backing him at, but I did think PRINCLING was the right favourite in here and will be supporting him to give William Haggas the perfect start to Friday at flat racing HQ with a winner. He was last seen running a mighty race in the Golden Gates Handicap at Royal Ascot, finishing fifth but doing remarkably well to secure that position given how keenly he raced in the early part of the race.

Although he did not win the Bahrain Trophy on Thursday, Nil Bua Gan Dua ran well enough to give encouragement that the Ascot race was a strong formline - he finished a place ahead of Princling - and with this Haggas horse having the typical profile of a gradual improver for the handler I expect a much more polished effort here on the July course.

He is drawn next to the expected pace angle Evanesco, who was behind him in the Golden Gates, which should be tremendously beneficial given Princling's keenness was perhaps a consequence of dawdling at the start of the race. The stiff finish will hold no issue for him given how well he finished off his race at Ascot and I think he is simply the best horse in this race. I couldn't have third favourite Laureate Crown in a month of Sundays over this trip, but I am fearful of second in the market Heraldry for the Gosdens.

He was behind the reopposing Decade Of Time at Windsor last time out but looked the horse with more scope that day and now has a huge 10lbs pull in the weights. He looks best of the rest, but I am quite sweet on Princling's chacnes so for all my moaning at the start of this section, maybe the price at around 9/4 isn't too bad after all.

15:00 Newmarket - Betway Trophy

If something looks like a duck, swims like a duck, and quacks like a duck, then it probably is a duck. That phrase can of course be applied to any number of possibilities in the betting and sporting world, and it certainly applies to the comically impressive 13 (yes, THIRTEEN) length Carlisle handicap winner WINE DARK SEA. If a horse runs like a group horse in a handicap and wins by thirteen lengths, don't try and be clever, just take the even money about it next time out and quietly go about your day. Be even quicker about taking the even money when you realise said horse is effectively 11lbs well in!

It is rare you see a flat race blown apart in the manner this lad did it for Harry Charlton up in the North East and it is little surprise to see they have rolled him out quickly, penalised, to run off 89 rather than his revised mark of 100 which will apply moving forward. Should he repeat that run, he will saunter to victory here, but I know some worry when they see a flash in the pan and want more evidence. Luckily, there is just that when it comes to this lad. His penultimate start saw him win what looked a good Ascot handicap off 78 and the horse he beat into third that day, Opportunity, subsequently came out and won at the Royal Meeting.

The big question mark is the distance, with two more furlongs than he faced at Carlisle on the menu here, however I am not worried in the slightest about his stamina given that he has won over just a furlong shorter at Ascot, notoriously one of the toughest tests in the land. NAP of the day, NAP of the week, NAP of July, call it what you like. This lad wins, and if he doesn't it's beans on toast with supermarket own branded lager for me for the England game come Saturday night!

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ITV Racing Tips: Day 1 Best Bets As Newmarket July Festival Begins

2026-07-08T17:34:29+01:00

The July Festival at Newmarket begins on Thursday, and ITV Racing are in town to broadcast the action while also throwing in a few races from Doncaster for good measure. Billy Grimshaw has scoured the cards and likes the look of a couple at flat racing HQ...

13:50 Newmarket - Bahrain Trophy

A Group 3 kicks things off on ITV and at Newmarket on what is expected to be a red hot afternoon, and there are plenty in here who could sizzle and announce themselves as future stars. It is only a five runner race, but there could be a case made for all five and that is evident given the outsider of the field is still single figures. Nil Bua Gan Dua is the aforementioned outsider and is the most exposed horse in this field for Joseph O'Brien, but given the superb season his handler is having he wouldn't be one to easily dismiss. Ryan Moore takes the ride after he bagged fourth in a Royal Ascot handicap last time out under Dylan Browne McMonagle and given he was outpaced in that race before running on well and now has four furlongs further to run at, he could spring a bit of a surprise.

Another race at Royal Ascot, the Queen's Vase, is the one I want to focus on however and for all Galiyan's third was a fine effort, DEL MARO was a place in front of him that day for Godolphin and given Charlie Appleby has won this race three of the last five years, I am backing his runner here to confirm those placings. There is no doubting he got a better run of the race at Ascot than Andrew Balding's charge, however given how close Del Maro got to the well regarded winner, I am quite confident he will get a well deserved victory here.

Point Of Law was fourth in that crucial form line, the Queen's Vase, and for all he was caught out wide I do not think he has what it takes to reel in either the third or second from Ascot. That just leaves Derby fifth Alderman for Richard Hannon, who ran a screamer at Epsom but has perhaps seen that form let down a touch more than the other three from Ascot. One suspects he will be aimed at the Leger given how strongly he finished at Epsom, and I can see him plugging on again here but just being done for speed by the favourite.

15:00 Newmarket - Betway Handicap

Calico Blue massively tempted me here, given how well he ran at Royal Ascot but only finishing fourth due to his low draw, however I was very impressed with THUNDER CALL at York last time out and was determined to keep him onside next time out, wherever he ran. William Haggas's charge only just saw off the re-opposing Red Spells Danger on the Knavesmire, but the bare result does not tell the full story. Running in his handicap debut, Zac Lloyd gave Thunder Call a tender enough ride and was remarkably cool in the plate with Red Spells Danger and another fast finisher eating up his lead in the closing stages.

The manner in which Haggas's horse held on despite not being asked for everything indicated to me this was a horse still very much learning the game and, were that race his World Cup final, I've no doubt he could've eked out a bit more. Should that be required here, I'm sure Tom Marquand will push the button and for all I do respect Red Spells Danger and the Royal Ascot form Calico Blue brings to the table, Thunder Call looks the one with the highest ceiling in here.

The stiff finish here on the July Course means I do not discount Ten Carat Harry either, for all he clearly needs a stiff six or seven to be seen at his best. The pace doesn't look overly strong in here but perhaps Saffie Osborne will take the bull by the horns on him and attempt to use his stamina and make all. I would fear him more than the odds compilers offering 10/1 and bigger do, but not enough to ditch Thunder Call.

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France vs Morocco Prediction: Betting Tips for the First World Cup Quarter Final

2026-07-08T16:05:58+01:00

The FIFA World Cup quarter finals begin on Thursday evening, as eight nations remain in with a chance of glory. France and Morocco kick things off in Boston, the match being a repeat of the semi final from Qatar in 2022. Both teams have come a long way since.

France have at least reached the semi finals of every major tournament bar one since 2016. However, African champions Morocco are swiftly establishing themselves among the elite. This game can live up to the billing, with the winners placing themselves in a superb position for potential glory.

France vs Morocco Betting Tips

Market	Selection	Best Odds
Best Bet	France Over 6.5 Shots On Target	17/10
Next Best	Michael Olise to Score Any Time	14/5
Longshot	France 3-1 Morocco	14/1

France and Morocco have both impressed neutrals so far in this World Cup and there is little reason why that should stop in this quarter final. The president of the Moroccan FA promoted Mohamed Ouahbi to play attractive football in matches like this. That could play into France' hands though, and the value is with an Olise goal, with his price to score any time the same as substitute Rayan Cherki despite him surely having more minutes to do so here.

Our France vs Morocco predictions can be found below, with the latest odds for each.

France vs Morocco Prediction

A repeat of the 2022 World Cup semi final in which the gulf in class appears the same, but only because both nations have improved. Despite reaching the final that year, France always felt a shade undercooked, though were naturally seen as a class above a Morocco team which had made history as the first African nation to reach a World Cup semi final.

Morocco had caused upsets against Spain and Portugal along the way, but with gritty, defensive displays. In 2026, it has been their attacking quality, particularly on the counter, which has paved the way to this quarter final. Their goal against Brazil, as well as their second and third against Canada, was a breakaway dismantling of the opposition.

France had been doing that all tournament until faced with a dark arts performance of the ages by Paraguay in Philadelphia. Despite the set up of the game preventing them from showing anything near their best, they ground out victory.

Let us hope Morocco do not take lessons from Paraguay for a method of defeating Didier Deschamps’ runaway train. Arch African rivals Senegal showed that France can be unsettled, particularly in the first halves of matches. Get off to a fast start and they can make a good fight of this, though Mbappe, Dembele and Olise will be thrilled at the opportunity to attack a more open rival.

Prediction: France 3-1 Morocco

France vs Morocco Match Odds

France Team News

Manu Kone will continue in midfield if Aurelien Tchouameni is again ruled out through injury. It will be touch and go for the Real Madrid man. Up front, Desire Doue made a match-winning impact off the bench against Paraguay, winning the decisive penalty, but club teammate Bradley Barcola may retain his position in the starting line-up.

Predicted France XI: Maignan; Kounde, Upamecano, Saliba, Digne; Kone, Rabiot, Dembele, Olise, Barcola; Mbappe

Morocco Team News

New Bayern Munich signing Ismael Sabiabri has not trained after going off against Canada. He will be a big loss, though Soufiane Rahimi has made an impact off the bench at times. He should come in, with Chadi Riad also expected to come in, returning in place of Redouane Halhal.

Predicted Morocco XI: Bono; Hakimi, Diop, Riad, Mazraoui; El Aynaoui, Bouaddi; Diaz, Ounahi, El Khannouss; Rahimi

France vs Morocco Head-To-Head

France are yet to lose against Morocco in 90 minutes of an international game. They have won four of the six meetings, including the one that mattered most, a 2-0 victory in the 2022 World Cup semi final in Qatar.

Who is the Referee for France vs Morocco?

There has been plenty of uproar about the referee assigned to this match. Argentine Facundo Tello will officiate, with the entire refereeing team in-person, and on VAR, hailing from Argentina. This has caused controversy with Argentina remaining in the tournament on the other side of the draw.

Where will France vs Morocco take place?

The Boston Stadium will host this World Cup quarter final. It can hold more than 71,000 people at its maximum capacity.

France vs Morocco Frequently Asked Questions

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Racing Tips Today - Wednesday 8 July 2026

2026-07-08T09:27:25+01:00

Wednesday’s racing brings a busy midweek programme, with racing tips today covering Catterick, Yarmouth, Fairyhouse, Kempton and Chepstow. There is afternoon Flat action in Britain, a strong evening spread across Ireland and the all-weather, and the build-up to Newmarket’s July Festival is now starting to dominate the racing news agenda.

Today’s NAPs Table - Top 3

The top of the NAPs table has a strong evening feel on Wednesday, with Farringdon leading the way courtesy of Spirit Lead Me in the 20:55 at Kempton. Jeffrey Ross sits second with Waterford Castle at Yarmouth, while Ian Gaughran completes the leading trio with Zitkala Sa in the Fairyhouse opener.

Tipster	NAP	Race/Time	Odds	P&L £
Farringdon	Spirit Lead Me	20:55 Kempton	5/1	+£48.47
Jeffrey Ross	Waterford Castle	15:45 Yarmouth	5/2	+£42.76
Ian Gaughran	Zitkala Sa	16:38 Fairyhouse	11/4	+£39.29

NAPs Table

Templegate & Other Big Name NAPs

There are also a few familiar newspaper names worth noting away from the top three. Templegate heads to Chepstow with Just Typical, Robin Goodfellow puts up Caprelo at Kempton, and Newsboy is also focused on the Kempton card with Sarangpur in the opener.

Templegate: Just Typical, 20:11 Chepstow, 13/8
Robin Goodfellow: Caprelo, 19:13 Kempton, 3/1
Newsboy: Sarangpur, 17:28 Kempton, 8/15

Racing News Round-Up

Newmarket July Festival starts tomorrow: The next major Flat racing festival is now almost here, with Newmarket’s July Festival taking place from Thursday to Saturday. The three-day meeting builds towards Saturday’s July Cup, which is the headline Group 1 sprint of the week on the July Course.
July Cup market takes shape: Saturday’s July Cup is already attracting plenty of ante-post attention, with Venetian Sun prominent in the market after Royal Ascot. Mission Central, Satono Reve, Almeraq, Division and Double Rush are among the other key names in the sprint picture.

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Racing Tips Today - Tuesday 7 July 2026

2026-07-07T09:01:00+01:00

Tuesday’s racing brings a solid midweek programme, with racing tips today covering Pontefract, Uttoxeter, Tramore, Wolverhampton and Brighton. There is Listed action at Pontefract, jumps racing at Uttoxeter, an evening card in Ireland and two later Flat fixtures, while the NAPs table has a familiar trio at the top heading into the day.

Today’s NAPs Table - Top 3

The top of the NAPs table has a strong evening feel on Tuesday, with Farringdon leading the way courtesy of Rainbow Sorbet in the 19:20 at Brighton. Jeffrey Ross is close behind with Templegate’s NAP Reds And Wolves at Wolverhampton, while Ian Gaughran completes the top three with Rory Rocket in the Brighton finale.

Tipster	NAP	Race/Time	Odds	P&L £
Farringdon	Rainbow Sorbet	19:20 Brighton	33/1	+£48.47
Jeffrey Ross	Reds And Wolves	18:10 Wolverhampton	15/8	+£41.39
Ian Gaughran	Rory Rocket	20:50 Brighton	15/8	+£39.29

NAPs Table

Templegate & Other Big Name NAPs

There are also a few familiar names worth noting away from the top three. Templegate also sides with Reds And Wolves at Wolverhampton, Newsboy heads to Uttoxeter with Ice Jet, and Robin Goodfellow focuses on the feature Listed race at Pontefract with Bellarchi.

Templegate: Reds And Wolves, 18:10 Wolverhampton, 15/8
Robin Goodfellow: Bellarchi, 14:48 Pontefract, 11/4
Newsboy: Ice Jet, 14:00 Uttoxeter, 10/11

Racing News Round-Up

Newmarket July Festival build-up gathers pace: The next major Flat racing festival is now firmly on the horizon, with Newmarket’s July Festival taking place from Thursday to Saturday. The three-day meeting includes some of the key midsummer Flat prizes, with the July Cup the headline race on Saturday.
Kempton future back under scrutiny: Kempton Park is back in the spotlight, with MPs set to discuss the future of the racecourse and the wider British racing industry. The track has long been linked with potential housing development, and the debate is expected to bring fresh attention to one of the most sensitive issues in British racing.

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Mexico vs England Betting Tips: World Cup Predictions, Team News & Odds

2026-07-05T10:02:49+01:00

England face Mexico in the World Cup 2026 Round of 16 tonight, with Thomas Tuchel’s side heading into a hostile atmosphere in Mexico City. The match kicks off at 1am BST on Monday morning at the Estadio Azteca, and our Mexico vs England betting tips focus on whether the Three Lions can handle the occasion and keep their World Cup campaign alive.

Mexico vs England - Key Match Details

Detail	Information
Fixture	Mexico vs England
Competition	World Cup 2026
Round	Round of 16
Date	Monday 6 July 2026
Kick-Off Time	1am BST
Venue	Estadio Azteca, Mexico City
TV Channel	BBC One
Live Stream	BBC iPlayer

Mexico vs England Betting Tips

Betting Tip	Selection	Odds
Best Bet	Draw	9/4
Next Best	Harry Kane Anytime Goalscorer	13/8
Longshot	FT Result Draw, Harry Kane To Score, O’Reilly & Jimenez Over 1.5 Fouls Each Bet Builder	22/1

Best Bet - Draw @ 9/4

The draw makes plenty of appeal in what could be a tense and tactical knockout tie at the Estadio Azteca. England have the greater individual quality and Harry Kane gives them a clear route to goal, but Mexico should be extremely difficult to shake off in front of a fierce home crowd. The altitude, atmosphere and knockout setting all point towards a match where England may have to stay patient rather than blow their opponents away. Mexico have enough discipline and threat to make this awkward, while England may be more concerned with control than taking unnecessary risks. At 9/4, the draw looks the value play in a game that could easily need extra-time to separate the sides.

Next Best - Harry Kane Anytime Goalscorer @ 13/8

Harry Kane is the obvious England player to side with if expecting the Three Lions to find a way through Mexico at some stage. This may not be a match where England create chance after chance, but Kane remains their main penalty-box presence, their most reliable finisher and the player most likely to be involved if Thomas Tuchel’s side do land a decisive blow. Mexico should make this awkward and physical, which could actually suit Kane if England are forced to play for set-pieces, crosses and second balls around the box. With penalties also in his favour, 13/8 looks fair enough in a tight knockout game where England may only need one moment of quality from their captain.

Longshot - Draw, Kane To Score, O’Reilly & Jimenez Over 1.5 Fouls Each Bet Builder @ 22/1

The Longshot Bet Builder is the bigger-priced play for those expecting a tight, physical knockout tie in Mexico City. The draw is the foundation of the bet, with England likely to have long spells of control but Mexico capable of making this awkward in front of a fierce home crowd. Harry Kane remains the obvious route to an England goal, whether from open play, a set-piece or the penalty spot, while O’Reilly and Jimenez both appeal in the fouls market if the game becomes scrappy and stretched.

It is clearly more speculative than the first two selections, but at 22/1, the combination makes sense for a match that could be tense, combative and decided by fine margins.

Mexico vs England Prediction

England have the stronger squad on paper, but this looks a much tougher assignment than the outright match odds suggest. Mexico have home advantage at the Estadio Azteca, the backing of a huge crowd and a defensive record that makes them difficult to ignore. They are yet to concede at this World Cup and should be set up to make England work for every clear opening.

Thomas Tuchel’s side still have the quality to hurt Mexico, especially through Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham and the wide players, but the altitude, atmosphere and knockout setting all point towards a tight game rather than a comfortable England win. Mexico have enough discipline and experience to frustrate England, while Raul Jimenez gives them a focal point at the other end. A draw looks a very live runner.

Prediction: Mexico 1-1 England

Mexico vs England Team News

England have been sweating over their right-back situation, but Jarell Quansah has returned to full training and is available again after missing the DR Congo game. Reece James remains a doubt with a hamstring issue and may only be considered for the bench if he passes a late medical assessment, so Quansah could come straight back into the side. Nico O’Reilly is expected to continue at left-back, with Jordan Pickford, Ezri Konsa and Marc Guehi also set to remain in the back line.

Further forward, Declan Rice should continue in midfield alongside Elliot Anderson, with Jude Bellingham operating in the advanced central role behind Harry Kane. Bukayo Saka and Anthony Gordon are both pushing to start after making a strong impact from the bench against DR Congo, which could leave Noni Madueke and Marcus Rashford vulnerable in the wide areas.

Mexico are expected to stick close to the side that has served them well throughout the tournament. Raul Rangel should continue in goal behind a back four of Jorge Sanchez, Cesar Montes, Johan Vasquez and Jesus Gallardo. Javier Aguirre is likely to rely on the midfield balance of Gilberto Mora, Erik Lira and Luis Romo, while Roberto Alvarado and Julian Quinones should support Raul Jimenez in attack. Aguirre has also made clear that stopping Kane will need to be a collective job rather than something left solely to his centre-backs.

Mexico vs England Predicted Lineups

Team	Predicted Lineup
Mexico	Rangel; Sanchez, Montes, Vasquez, Gallardo; Mora, Lira, Romo; Alvarado, Jimenez, Quinones
England	Pickford; Quansah, Konsa, Guehi, O’Reilly; Anderson, Rice; Saka, Bellingham, Gordon; Kane

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Coral-Eclipse Betting Tips: Billy Grimshaw’s Big Race Preview & Best Bet

2026-07-03T12:55:02+01:00

The Coral Eclipse is always one of the great midsummer races, but this year’s Sandown showpiece has a proper tactical edge to it. Constitution River is the obvious starting point after winning the Prix du Jockey Club, and Aidan O’Brien has a strong hand with Hawk Mountain and Flushing Meadows also in the field. Gethin and Saddadd give the older horses a serious domestic challenge, while A Boy Named Susie adds further depth to the three-year-old form. I can see why the favourite is short, but I am not convinced this is a race to be taking odds-on in. The Chantilly form is strong, but the gap between the front two in France was not huge, and Sandown may give the runner-up a real chance to get closer.

Constitution River is clearly the most likely winner on paper and there is no great mystery about why he heads the market. He was impressive at Chester, then proved himself at the highest level when landing the Prix du Jockey Club at Chantilly. He travels strongly, he has a turn of foot, and he gets the three-year-old weight allowance in a race that has been very kind to the Classic generation in recent years. If he improves again, he may simply be too good and could be the fourth three year old Ballydoyle colt to taste success here in as many years.

Even so, I would not want to be steaming into him at a cramped price. He had to work in France and Hawk Mountain was only three-quarters of a length behind him at the line. That does not scream odds-on shot against 5/1 shot to me, especially when the runner-up is also trained by O’Brien and arrives with fewer questions than most. I also think the pace scenario matters. Flushing Meadows should go forward and make sure this is not a messy crawl, while Hawk Mountain has the draw and tactical speed to sit in the right place. At Sandown, that can be half the battle.

Gethin is the one I fear most from the older brigade. His second to Ombudsman in the Brigadier Gerard over course and distance reads very well now, and he has done little wrong in his career. The concern is that he could need things to fall perfectly from stall one, particularly if the Ballydoyle runners get control of the race. Saddadd is another solid contender with course-and-distance form, but this is a deeper race than the one he won here earlier in the season.

The more I look at this race, the more I think HAWK MOUNTAIN has to be the bet at the prices. He is not some exposed outsider trying to nick a place. He is a high-class three-year-old who got very close to the favourite in a French Classic and now gets another crack at him over the same sort of trip. Constitution River may confirm the form, of course, but the market has treated that Chantilly result as though there was a much bigger gap between them than there really was. Perhaps the Ryan Moore tax is in play, too, but I don't mind taking him on when the time is right.

I also like the fact Hawk Mountain should be straightforward tactically. With Flushing Meadows likely to ensure a proper gallop, Wayne Lordan should be able to get him into a sensible rhythm rather than having to ride a waiting race from too far back. That matters at Sandown, where you do not want to be caught flat-footed turning in. If Constitution River is as good as the market says, then fair enough, but Hawk Mountain has enough class to make him work and enough value in his price to make him the better betting proposition.

A Boy Named Susie is interesting for those looking for something at a bigger price, as his French Derby fourth was not a bad effort at all, but I am not convinced he has the tactical pace to reverse the form with both Ballydoyle colts. Gethin and Saddadd are very likeable, but this may come down to whether the three-year-old Classic form is as strong as it looked. I think it is, but I do not think the favourite is the only way to play it. The one I want to be with is HAWK MOUNTAIN.

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