With the break upon us, it can be tempting to try a little flutter, but here are 5 reasons to AVOID betting on the internationals.
- Form is temporary.
As most of us do, it’s easy to think your onto a winner when looking at international head to head results. However, squads at this time of a season are often experimental, with some of the old guard left behind, especially if its a friendly. The Argentina team that play Chile tonight will look a lot different than the one that beat them in the Semi Finals of the Copa America in July. - Dark Horses.
Think Iceland 2016 or Greece 2004, the international game can throw up a few surprises due to the quick turnaround of games after squads meet up. A decent tactical manager can set up a team to steal a win from a big side. The international stage often allows lesser known players a chance to shine, and show they can compete against world class opposition. - Poor Odds
As there are so many unknown factors around an international break, especially the first of the season, the bookies are often reluctant to offer big prices. For Example, Ireland will take on Switzerland tonight, at home and the visitors are favourites at 2.15. When the odds are 2.15 the expected chance of winning is 47%, but Switzerland actually win 30% matches with these odds. Meaning this is a bad value bet. - Debutants
The England squad this time features Tyrone Mings, James Maddison and Mason Mount as debutants, with Calum Wilson who has just 52′ of International Football under his belt. This is common across the world, as managers reward players who have started well. How will they gel? How will they settle? With so many new players in the frame, it can lead to some surprising results. - Tough Places To Go
It can be tempting to gamble on the bigger side out of two, for example Italy to beat Armenia as they are a much better side, but with the travel and tough crowd to contend with, it leaves the chance for Armenia to try and get something, they will try slow the far technically superior Italy down, so this is one to avoid.
