Around the Betting Planet: Super Rugby is back in South Africa

US sports news

Dolphins take on Jaguars in NFL derby

The Jacksonville Jaguars will play host to the Miami Dolphins on Thursday in an all-Florida NFL battle. The home side has the advantage in this game, after finally hitting form. They’ve had a rough start but appear to be ironing out their wrinkles. The combination of an improved team and the home advantage put them as the favorites for NFL betting sites.

On the other hand, the Dolphins have a while to go still before they reach their peak, which is problematic since their confidence has been shaken. They also lack strength in defense, which will cost them more games if they don’t patch it up soon. If last season is anything to go by, they’re not winning this game. 

UK sports news

Can Crystal Palace maintain momentum in EPL?

After a brilliant performance against Manchester United in the Premier League last week, can Crystal Palace do it again when they face Everton? The odds are against them, but it’s looking to be a close game. 

Both sides boast recent signings who are living up to their fees. Top of that list is James Rodriguez, who is proving a handful for Premier League defenses. That’s a worry for Palace, who have a couple of injuries that could cost them dear at the back.

Africa sports news

Super Rugby returns in South Africa

South Africans have experienced one of the hardest COVID-19 lockdowns in the world. The sportsbooks and fans have been deprived for months of any activity, so the country’s eagerly awaiting the comeback of Super Rugby this Saturday.

Some big rivalries will reignite as the Bulls face the Sharks and the Stormers take on the Lions. It’s been a long time since any of these guys have set foot on the field of play, so what can we expect?

The Bulls are bringing in Duane Vermuelen, who adds immense value to his side. He was part of the Rugby World Cup-winning squad and could help his side take the match. 

However, the Sharks were in the best form of all sides before the country shut down. If they can maintain their strength and stamina, they stand a chance against the Bulls.

In the second game of the doubleheader, our money is on the Stormers. They are home to the Springbok captain, Siya Kolisi, and littered with World Cup players. The Lions play a thrilling game and never disappoint for entertainment, but they stumble too often when the pressure is on.

Europe sports news

Yoka to fight Duhaupas at La Defense Arena

In what could be one of the most exciting fights for a while, the La Defense Arena will host a heavyweight boxing match between French rivals Tony Yoka and Johann Duhaupas.

Online sportsbooks are in favor of Yoka, who’s a much younger and more agile fighter. He’s proven himself time and time again. Even after he was banned for a year, he returned, stopping his opponent in round three. Yoka followed that up in his next fight too. 

We’re backing Yoka, but that doesn’t mean Duhaupas will go down easy. He’s coming to the end of his career at age 39 and is a former heavyweight world champion. Duhaupas has experience on his side and will make Yoka work for the win. 

South America sports news

Can Bahia turn it around in Serie A?

Bahia have endured a horror start to the Brazilian Serie A season, conceding 18 goals in only 10 games to sit second last in the standings. They’ve had a lot of thinking to do, and they need to make changes fast to avoid relegation.

They have brought in some reinforcements with Gabriel Xavier and Anderson Martins, but will it be enough? Next they face Atletico Paranaense, who are in better form and have been outstanding when playing on home soil. They’re also fresh from back-to-back victories.

We’re standing with the Brazilian sportsbooks here. The reinforcements for Bahia are a start, but it won’t be enough against Atletico Paranaense.

Australia sports news

Roosters take on Rabbitohs in NRL

The old rivalry between the Sydney Roosters and the South Sydney Rabbitohs will be back this weekend as both sides jockey for ladder position heading into the NRL finals.

The Rabbitohs are currently seventh after a devastating defeat against the Bulldogs. To add to that confidence knock, they’re sitting with five injuries and Jaydn Su’A suspended for the game. Their spot in the top eight is secure, so it’s all about getting through the last round unscathed.

The Roosters are in top form and come into this clash on a five-game winning streak. James Tedesco and Boyd Cordner are among the four players that’ll return to the field after missing last week. Like most Australian bookmakers, we are siding with the Chooks in this one.

New Zealand sports news

RTS out for Warriors’ final game of 2020

The New Zealand Warriors are ready to face the Manly Sea Eagles in the NRL’s final round. The two sides are playing from near-identical footing, as they have accrued 14 points apiece and hold similar differentials.

The Warriors will play with captain Roger Tuivasa-Sheck watching from the sidelines after a recent injury. They’ll be in good spirits for the game, knowing he opted to stay with them instead of returning home to his family.

They’ve got the odds against them, as NRL betting sites are leaning towards the Sea Eagles. However, Manly are riddled with injuries and will battle to redeem themselves after their loss against the Titans.