Tom Macrina

Today’s Free Picks

The PLAY: REGULATION AS Roma -0.25 (-112)

This Monday night clash at the Stadio Olimpico promises to be a tightly contested affair between two sides firmly in the hunt for European qualification spots. AS Roma, sitting 4th in the Serie A standings, host surprise package Como in 6th, with just three points separating the teams after 14 matchdays.
Defensive Strengths Set the Tone
Roma have established themselves as the league's premier defensive unit this season, conceding the fewest goals in Serie A. Their rock-solid backline has been the foundation of an impressive campaign under Gian Piero Gasperini, helping them briefly top the table earlier in the autumn.
Como, meanwhile, boast the second-best defensive record, having shipped just 11 goals. Cesc Fàbregas' side have punched well above their weight as a newly promoted team, blending disciplined organization with a potent attack that has caught many opponents off guard. Their overachievement this term is undeniable, but a heavy 4-0 defeat to Inter Milan last weekend snapped an 11-match unbeaten run and exposed vulnerabilities against top-tier sides.
Recent Form and Momentum
Roma arrive needing a response after back-to-back narrow 1-0 league defeats to Napoli and Cagliari, which saw them slip from the summit. However, a midweek 3-0 Europa League thrashing of Celtic provided a timely boost, showcasing their ability to dominate when clinical in attack.
Como's form before the Inter loss was outstanding, but they've struggled for consistency on the road and in matches against teams above them in the table—often failing to score in those tougher away fixtures.
Head-to-Head Dominance
Roma hold a strong historical edge, particularly at the Olimpico. Como's only victory there dates back to a 1-0 win in April 1950, with the Giallorossi winning 11 of 16 home meetings overall (plus 4 draws). More recently, encounters have been competitive, but Roma edged a 2-1 win in their last meeting at this venue.
One intriguing stat: Roma have not drawn a single match in their last 20+ Serie A games this season, embodying an "all or nothing" approach.
Match Outlook
With both teams prioritizing defensive solidity, this has all the makings of a low-scoring, cagey encounter where a single goal could prove decisive. While the under looks tempting given the elite defenses on show, Roma's home advantage, superior squad depth, and need to rebound from recent domestic setbacks tilt the balance in their favor.
Betting Recommendation: Roma -0.25 Asian Handicap (-122)
A narrow home win—or at least avoiding defeat—offers solid value in what should be a hard-fought battle.

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The PLAY: REGULATION Betis 0.0 (-120)

Rayo Vallecano host Real Betis at Estadio de Vallecas in a mid-table La Liga clash, with the visitors arriving in stronger form and boasting an impressive unbeaten record on the road this season.
Rayo Vallecano's Form
Rayo have shown resilience but lack cutting edge in attack. They are winless in their last five La Liga matches, often settling for draws thanks to a solid defensive structure. However, they secured a morale-boosting 2-1 victory away at Jagiellonia Białystok in the UEFA Conference League just days ago, marking their second win in the last three across all competitions. At home in Vallecas, Rayo remain tough to beat, staying unbeaten in their last five league outings there, though victories have been scarce.
Real Betis' Form
Betis have been one of the season's standout performers, particularly away from home. They sit comfortably in the European spots and are unbeaten in all away games this campaign, collecting points consistently on their travels. Overall, they've won seven of their last ten matches across all competitions, including four of their last five. Their La Liga results have been mixed at times, but their attacking flair—scoring freely in recent outings—has compensated for occasional defensive lapses.
Head-to-Head
Historically, Betis hold the edge in this fixture, but Rayo have proven difficult opponents lately, remaining unbeaten in their last three meetings (including draws and a win). Matches between these sides often feature goals, with both teams finding the net in several recent encounters.
Betting Angle
Despite Rayo's stubborn home form, Betis' exceptional away record and superior overall quality make them the value play. The books are offering attractive odds on the visitors with a safety net.
Recommended Bet: Real Betis Draw No Bet @ -107

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The PLAY: REGULATION Manchester United -125

Manchester United welcome Bournemouth to Old Trafford in a Premier League clash on Monday, December 15, 2025, looking to build on recent positive momentum.

Manchester United Form

The Red Devils are unbeaten in their last three league matches, highlighted by an impressive 4-1 victory away at Wolverhampton Wanderers in their most recent outing. At home, they have secured wins in four of their last six Premier League games across recent seasons, showing resilience at Old Trafford. However, defensive vulnerabilities remain a concern, with United conceding in 14 of their previous 15 league fixtures and managing just one clean sheet all season.

Bournemouth Form

In contrast, Bournemouth arrive on a six-game winless run in the league (four losses, two draws), including back-to-back scoreless outings. Their away record is particularly worrying, with only one victory in their last seven road games. That said, six of those seven away matches have featured over 3.5 goals, underscoring their involvement in high-scoring encounters despite struggles for points.

Head-to-Head

Historically, Bournemouth have held the upper hand in recent meetings, remaining unbeaten in the last four encounters against United (two wins, two draws). Notably, they claimed 3-0 victories in their previous two visits to Old Trafford. Overall, United lead the all-time series 10-4 with three draws, but the Cherries' recent dominance in this fixture cannot be ignored.

Analysis and Recommendation

While Bournemouth's historical edge and potential for goals make them a tricky opponent, Manchester United's improved home form, current unbeaten streak, and Bournemouth's prolonged dip in results—coupled with poor away performances—tilt the balance in favor of the hosts. Ruben Amorim's side should capitalize on these factors to secure the win.

Betting Pick: Manchester United Moneyline (-124)

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