The Scout: Champions League Semi-Finals

Posted on April 29, 2019May 2, 2019 | Posted by The Scout

Tottenham vs Ajax
1^st May, 3am WST

They’re the tournament surprise packets, but neither Tottenham or Ajax has been gifted their pathway to this point of the tournament.

Tottenham overcame English rivals Manchester City without striker Harry Kane, scoring three goals away from home in the second leg. Kane misses again here, as does Son Heung-Min, a huge blow despite their decent coverage of attacking options.

Dark horse, giant killers – call them what you want, Ajax have been nothing short of incredible, accounting for Real Madrid and Juventus en route the Semi-Finals. This side loves to attack. They have scored 111 goals from 32 matches in their domestic league and have scored in every Champions League fixture to date – a feat shared by Tottenham.

It’s always difficult for foreign sides to come to England and win, but the assignment will hold no fears for Ajax. Tottenham will be looking to take advantage of home ground advantage, while there has been nothing to suggest the visitors will shy away from their attacking ways.

Look for Dušan Tadić to be busy for Ajax – he has been their catalyst to date with six goals and three assists, and as a former Premier League player, he knows how to win in England.

Suggested Bet: Over +2.5 Goals @ $1.87*

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Barcelona vs Liverpool
2^nd May, 3am WST

Two of the best teams in Europe, 10 Champions League titles between them and favouritism in the Final awaiting the eventual winner.

Hosts Barcelona officially secured the La Liga title over the weekend, and will now turn 100 per cent of their focus and energy to the Champions League – a scary thought! The Catalan Giants are tournament favourites and unbeaten in their last 19 matches across all competitions.

Runners up in last year’s Champions League, Liverpool are in a heated battle for top spot in the Premier League. Their focus and energy here will be a fascinating watch, but they must be on their game as any minor mistake will be punished by arguably the toughest opponent in world football.

Liverpool have won 10 matches in a row (all competitions) and have a brilliant, well-rounded squad with one of the best defenses in Europe anchored by Dutch fullback Virgil van Dijk, who was just named the PFA Player of the Year.

Barcelona are rightfully favourites in this leg. They haven’t lost at home in 18 games and have been clinical to date in this tournament. As always, all eyes will be on Lionel Messi who might well be in career best form – which is saying something! The Argentine is leading the Golden Boot in the Champions League with 10 goals from eight appearances and looks the difference maker at home.

Suggested Bet: Match Result Barcelona @ $1.76*

*Odds correct as at 10.30am WST 29th April 2019.

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