Nishant Joshi's Sporting Saturday

By Nishant Joshi

Netherlands vs Japan



19th June 12:30 GMT
ITV1 (12:00-14:35), ITV HD (12:00-14:35), STV HD (12:00-14:35), RTE Two (12:00-14:30)

So, England are on the precipice of an early exit from the World Cup, as things certainly livened up during an interesting end to the first week of World Cup 2010.

Today, Netherlands take on Japan in an encounter which should be a regulation Dutch win on paper. Japan pulled off an upset by beating Cameroon 1-0 in their first match, but plenty more will be needed to take apart an efficient side.

The bookies make the Netherlands strong 1.4 favourites and it's hard to disagree. After beating Denmark 2-0 in their first game, we will once again back them on the Asian Handicap. They have enough attacking flair to convert a tight win into a comfortable one, and the -1.25 handicap certainly offers great value too.

NJ's Bet:

Holland -1.25 Asian Handicap - 4pts @ 2.12 Ladbrokes


Guillermo Garcia Lopez vs Michael Llodra



ATP Eastbourne Final, 19th June 14:00 GMT
British Eurosport HD (14:00-14:30, 14:45-16:00)

Frenchman Michael Llodra has demolished the field this week, only dropping one set on his favourite grass surface. Garcia Lopez is known more for his clay prowess but has proven that he is no mug in this warm-up for Wimbledon. Llodra tends to shine once a year and he knows that this will be his best chance for a title this season.

Garcia Lopez has a poor record vs left-handers and I expect the net-rushing Llodra to give him all sorts of problems. Once again we will bet on Llodra to win 2-0 with confidence.

NJ's Bet:

Llodra to win 2-0 - 3.25pts @ 2.1 @ Ladbrokes

Nishant Joshi