Expert football betting recommendations for Saturday, 2nd August – check out the top picks and advice from talkSPORT's professionals
Football Betting Tips for Saturday, August 9th, 2025
Football fans are in for an exciting weekend as the EFL and Scottish competitions kick off. Here are some betting tips to help you make the most of the action.
Managerial Changes
The Scottish Premiership will see a new manager at Kilmarnock, with Derek McInnes moving to Hearts, and Michael McIndoe taking over at Edinburgh City. Meanwhile, in the EFL, the League One and League Two seasons will begin, with Livingston starting their Premiership campaign following their promotion.
Bet of the Day
In the EFL Championship, an AI-based tip suggests betting on "Under 2.5 goals" at odds around 1/2 for the game involving Wrexham playing away at Southampton. The prediction is that Wrexham will adopt a defensive setup, making fewer goals likely.
Longshot of the Day
In the Scottish League Cup, Montrose presents a valuable underdog in a treble bet against Alloa. Given Alloa's recent struggles and fitness issues, a £10 stake on this treble could yield a return of about £145 if successful, indicating a higher-risk, higher-reward bet.
Special of the Day
The Scottish League Cup offers a special focus on the Montrose versus Alloa match, which stands out due to the fitness and recent form disparities between the teams. This game is a tactical special and is recommended as part of the treble but also suitable for a special individual focus.
Accumulator Bet
An accumulator bet is suggested for Montrose draw no bet against Hamilton, Blackpool to beat Stevenage, and Bradford to beat Wycombe, at odds of 11/1. Blackpool were strong at home last season and have strengthened this summer, while Bradford earned automatic promotion from League Two last term and boasted the best home record.
League One and League Two Matches
In League One, Blackpool aim for a positive start against Stevenage at Bloomfield Road. Bradford can start off League One in style with a home victory over Wycombe. Edinburgh City will start the Scottish League Two season with a match against Sterling, with the Bantams winning 17 times and collecting 55 points at Valley Parade last season. However, Sterling lost all four of their Scottish League Cup group stage games before the new league campaign.
Responsible Gambling
Remember to gamble responsibly. Establish time and monetary limits, gamble only with money you can afford to lose, never chase your losses, don't gamble if you're upset, angry, or depressed, and seek help if needed from GamCare or Gamble Aware. Enjoy the football and the betting!
The new manager at Kilmarnock, Michael McIndoe, might have a different approach in his debut match compared to his predecessor, which could impact the football games' flow.
In the EFL Championship, the managerial changes in the EFL, such as Michael McIndoe's appointment at Kilmarnock, could significantly affect the betting odds for various games, including those involving Wrexham and Southampton.
