Graham Ruthven | Something for the Weekend International Special: Olise too slick as the Lions roar in Spain

Player to score – Michael Olise (Ukraine v France)

Michael Olise has picked up where he left off last season, scoring three goals in his first two Bundesliga games of the new campaign for Bayern Munich. The 23-year-old is expected to start for France against Ukraine and will be a goal threat in the final third with his dribbling and shooting around the area.

Ousmane Dembele, Kylian Mbappe and Marcus Thuram are in line to make up the rest of France’s forward line. All of the front four will be a danger against Ukraine, but Olise looks to have started the season in the sharpest form. He is a good price to find the back of the net on Friday.

 

Under 2.5 total goals – Denmark v Scotland

Denmark and Scotland kick off their 2026 World Cup qualification campaign on Friday night, and with only four teams in Group C, it’s crucial for both teams that they start on the front foot. The high stakes, however, could make this a cagey encounter in Copenhagen.

Steve Clarke’s team have scored more than one goal in just one game over their last seven competitive matches. While Scott McTominay is a goal threat from midfield, Scotland lack a consistent goalscorer in attack, with Denmark reliant on Rasmus Hojlund to lead the line when he is struggling for form.

 

Match to be a draw – Slovenia v Sweden

Slovenia and Sweden both enter this weekend’s World Cup qualifier in strong form, having won each of their last three games in all competitions. While Sweden boast a formidable attack that includes Alexander Isak, Viktor Gyokeres, and Anthony Elanga, Slovenia have lost just one of their last 18 games at home.

It helps that Slovenia have one of the best goalkeepers in the world in the shape of Jan Oblak to call on. Isak has been included in Jon Dahl Tomasson’s squad, but the Liverpool striker hasn’t had much of a pre-season and hasn’t played yet this season. He might start the match on the bench.

 

Both teams to score – Turkey v Spain

Turkey edged a thrilling World Cup qualifier against Georgia on Thursday, claiming a 3-2 win away from home. Vincenzo Montella’s team will follow this up by hosting Spain in a match that could go some way to determining who finishes top of Group E and punches their ticket to next summer’s tournament.

Spain were comfortable winners over Bulgaria on Thursday, with the European champions already looking strong in their efforts to reach another World Cup. This promises to be one of the most compelling matches in UEFA World Cup qualifying. Even if Spain finish on top, Turkey could hurt them.

---

Graham’s Fourfold

Like the sound of Graham’s picks? Why not roll this continental collection into an acca? £10 on all four hitting potentially returns £290!

---

Andorra vs England Bet Builder

England will aim to take another step towards the 2026 World Cup against Andorra this weekend, although most observers will be paying more attention to the manner of the Three Lions’ performance over the result itself. Indeed, Thomas Tuchel could use a statement result to set the tone for his tenure.

The Three Lions are under pressure to show they can make the most of their attacking and creative quality. Andorra are minnows and will struggle to keep the scoreline respectable with Tuchel and his players preparing for the 2026 World Cup, when England will be among the favourites.

---

Please remember to gamble responsibly. Visit our Safer Gambling section for more information, help, and advice.