Burnley qualified for European play for the first time in over 50 years after finishing last season in seventh place. The Clarets made it through the first couple rounds, but they lost to Olympiakos with a spot in the Europa League Group Stage on the line. That was disappointing, but while the club was trying to advance in European play, their form in the Premier League took a nosedive. Now, Burnley are looking to move out from the bottom of the table. The Clarets have a good chance to get some needed points this week when they face Cardiff City.
Don't miss the English Premier League action from Cardiff City Stadium in Cardiff, Wales at 11 a.m. ET on Sunday, September 30, 2018. Catch every moment of the match live on NBCSN.
English Premier League Betting at BookMaker.eu
Burnley +205
Cardiff City +156
Draw +202
Over/Under 2
Odds Analysis
Cardiff City have yet to pick up a win this year. The Bluebirds were one of the favorites per the EPL betting odds to be relegated at the start of the season, but they got off to a promising beginning. After a loss to Bournemouth, they secured scoreless draws against Newcastle United and Huddersfield Town. Since then, they have played the bluebloods of the Premier League though, and that has not gone well.
Through the first five games of the season, Burnley were sitting on just one point. The Clarets were clearly fatigued from the rigors of midweek Europa League play, and it showed with their lackluster performances. They finally got in the win column last week, hammering Bournemouth 4-0 to move out of the relegation zone.
Key Injuries
It will be a while before Nick Pope returns to the lineup for Burnley. He just underwent surgery for a shoulder injury and isn’t expected back until December. The Clarets will be without Ben Gibson for this match too due to a groin injury, and Robbie Brady is doubtful to see action.
The Bluebirds will be without three of their players for this game. Captain Aron Gunnarsson is sidelined with a knee knock, and Nathaniel Mendez-Laing will be out for a while with a long-term injury. Lee Peltier has been ruled out too with a dislocated shoulder.
Player to Watch
Joe Hart has looked to be a solid signing for the side of Burnley so far. The former Manchester City keeper would rather forget the last two years as he was benched and shipped from place to place, but he seems to have found a place with the Clarets.
Hart has acquitted himself well, and Sean Dyche has even gone on record to say that his goalkeeper’s play warrants a call-up from the national team. His play has helped Burnley start to turn things around.
Prop Bet of the Game – Game to finish 0-0 at +468
This is the lowest total we have seen in the Premier League so far this season. I could roll the dice and play the over, but I would rather steer into this game being low-scoring and bet on no goals to be scored. Neither side has a proven scorer, and both teams have relied on their defense as of late. Each team needs three points, but a point apiece wouldn’t hurt too badly at this point of the season.
Free Soccer Betting Pick
Interestingly enough, Cardiff City have had Burnley’s number in their most recent meetings. The Bluebirds have two wins and four draws in their last six head-to-head matches, and that might have the home side optimistic they can pick up a win.
However, Burnley are the better team, and if either side were to get three points, I would back the Clarets. Their recent play is reminiscent of what we saw from them last year, and that’s promising.
English Premier League Odds: Burnley 0, Cardiff City 0
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