tadley

This looks a tough one to call. Czech Republic are in fine form, getting past the Republic of Ireland and Denmark in the play-offs. They are very adept at set pieces, so it will be tough for South Korea to contain them. South Korea, though, are traditionally a fit team that never give up and will be running till the final minute. Even if trailing at half time, I could see them come back, as 72% of their goals come in the second half.

Wolves player Ladislav Krejci isn't always encouraged to get forward for corners but still got two goals from 28 games. Two doesn't sound like many, but it was only one off Wolves' top scorer. He has five from his last 23 internationals for the Czech Republic and is likely to get forward when the chance arrives tonight.

The Czech Republic racked up the corners in qualifying, and as they have some tall players they will be looking at set pieces to unlock the South Korea defence. South Korea are also a capable corner-winning side and won 11 against Japan in their last competitive game, so over 8.5 looks achievable.

After losing two on the trot, the Roosters got back to winning ways with a 26-0 win over the Raiders. However, beating the Raiders is a far easier task than the Dolphins. The Dolphins are on a five-game winning streak, with them hardly being pushed in any of the games. They look like a side full of confidence and are attacking with flair, so I see them winning again.

England clearly have the best players, with the two Lukes occupying the top two places in the rankings. It didn't do them any good last year when they were dumped out by Germany 9-4. Netherlands have the world number three and four in the form of Van Veen and Van Gerwen. They make a formidable team and look far better value at 8.00

It may be tree-lined, but the fairways are wide, meaning powerful driving is a plus. Michael Brennan is up there with the best for driving distance and enters this in good form. He was a solid sixth, two off the lead last time at the Charles Schwab, where he produced four solid rounds. I think he can go well at a good price.

Fleetwood didn't play last year but was a fine 2nd in 2023. He comes in in decent form after a solid 4th last time at the Memorial Tournament where he finished two off the lead. His chances were wrecked by a 73 on Friday, which may well have cost him the win. He should go well on this course and looks a potential winner.

Wyndham Clark comes into this in great form after winning the CJ Cup two starts ago. He shot four impressive rounds of 66, 63, 65, and 60. He followed that up with a solid 3rd at the Memorial, one shot off the lead despite a poor Friday when he shot 75. If he had had a solid Friday he may well have had back-to-back wins. In this form he could easily win again.

Clare won in 2024, but last year it didn't go well. Severe injury problems probably took their toll. They look in better shape this time and can certainly mix it with the best.

Lancashire underperformed, finishing 5th despite having a strong squad. They've really impressed with signings over the winter, enrolling quality players at this level, so I see them doing a lot better than 5th.

Warwickshire finished down in 5th last season but were hampered by drawing nine games, the most in the league. They've strengthened their squad and look capable of a better performance this season.

Verstappen kept himself in the title race last season despite clearly not having the best car. That speaks volumes about his skill, which should see him once again go well this season. Despite him slamming the new regulation, it should be to his benefit as he has the skills to master the new designs. The Red Bull has looked very promising in practice, so I rate him as the most likely winner.