The Republic of Ireland have missed out on another World Cup but tonight's friendly with Qatar gives them a chance to build towards Euro 2028.
Heimir Hallgrimsson's side took the fans on a rollercoaster ride in the World Cup qualifiers before eventually bowing out to the Czech Republic in the play-off semi-finals on penalties.
There was plenty for the Irish boss to take heart from and their summer friendlies give him the chance to experiment a little ahead of the Euros campaign.
Republic of Ireland vs Qatar top betting tips
Qatar have invested a lot of time and money into improving their footballing fortunes and have qualified for their second successive World Cup finals.
With Bosnia and Switzerland in their group this summer, this clash with the Irish will be useful preparation but the Qataris are 4/1 outsiders for a Dublin win.
The Republic of Ireland are favourites at 13/20 with most firms but a lot will depend on how strong a team each manager picks.
These friendlies are often non-events so it could pay to back under 2.5 goals, which is a decent 17/20 at Bet365.
For slightly better odds, try betting against a goal in each half at evens with Paddy Power.
Palmeiras vs Junior
The late night Copa Libertadores action continues in South America as Brazilian giants Palmeiras host Junior in Group F.
Unlike the last couple of nights, there's plenty at stake in this game as Palmeiras look to cement their place in the last 16 while the Colombians bid to sneak into the Copa Sudamericana by jumping above Sporting Cristal into third place.
A point might be enough for Palmeiras but they'll be going for a victory and Bet365 price the home win at just 1/4.
It's hard finding value with the Brazilians such heavy favourites but combining a Palmeiras win with under 3.5 goals looks decent at 20/21 with BOYLESports.
Cerro Porteno vs Sporting Cristal
The other Group F clash sees Cerro Porteno take on Sporting Cristal and the Paraguayans can relax with their slot in the last 16 already assured.
Sporting could join them in the last 16 if Palmeiras slip up against Junior but the Peruvians are 19/4 outsiders with Bet365 to get they win they need to stay in contention.
A lot will depend on how strong a team Cerro Poreteno pick but it might pay to back Sporting Cristal in the double chance at 13/10 with Betway.
Four of Cerro Porteno's games in this section have ended in 1-0 scorelines but this could be more open as Sporting need to go for a win to stand a chance of making the last 16.
So I'm going to take a punt on BTTS tonight as the odds are pretty good at 6/5 with Betfred.
Interested in why both teams scoring is such a strong angle? Check out our Masterclass on BTTS and sharpen your match-reading game.
Super singles
- Goal in each half in Ireland vs Qatar? No. Evens Paddy Power
- Palmeiras win and under 3.5 goals 20/21 BOYLESports
- BTTS in Cerro Porteno vs Sporting Cristal 6/5 Betfred
Upcoming match previews and betting tips
- Thu 19:45 Republic of Ireland vs Qatar
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Racing tips
Rizzel has picks for Ripon and Yarmouth today as he looks to find us some winners.
As always, post your own tips and comments below.
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