Tips of the day

FriendliesVoid2:1

PortugalNigeria

Why this pick: Portugal finish preparations for the World Cup against Nigeria in a match that may not produce many goals. Portugal have superior squad quality and recently destroyed Armenia 9:1, but their friendlies have been far more cautious. Nigeria remain dangerous in attack despite missing the World Cup and arrive unbeaten in five friendly matches. Both teams are likely to avoid unnecessary risks before the tournament period, making a slower and more tactical game highly possible.

Segunda DivisiónWon1:1

MalagaLas Palmas

Why this pick: Málaga CF have suffered just two home defeats all season, the best record in the Segunda División. There is little doubt that the team will place major emphasis on this home fixture. The same applies to UD Las Palmas, but the key question is whether either side will be willing to take significant risks. Toward the end of the season, both teams became more attack-minded and started scoring more frequently, largely because every dropped point could have been decisive in the standings. Now, however, they face only one direct opponent, which could lead to a much more cautious and tactical approach. That is why the under on total goals looks like the most reasonable option here.

FriendliesWon3:0

ArgentinaIceland

Why this pick: Argentina continue preparations for the World Cup with a friendly against Iceland, focusing more on fitness and tactical balance than on chasing a huge scoreline. The world champions remain extremely strong across all areas of the pitch, but squad rotation is expected as the coaching staff avoid unnecessary injury risks before the tournament. Iceland arrive with several key absences and are likely to spend most of the match defending due to Argentina’s dominance in possession. While the Icelandic side can still be dangerous in transition, creating consistent attacking chances against such a disciplined opponent will be very difficult. Argentina should control the match comfortably in a relatively low-scoring game.