Tuesday’s Special Picks Across Europe: Accumulator Tip for January 09

Tuesday will feature some interesting games across Europe as Fiorentina play host to Bologna in the Coppa Italia quarter-final clash, Middlesbrough will slug it out with Chelsea, and Estoril will entertain FC Porto in Portugal. Below are expert picks and odds

Fiorentina vs Bologna

In an eagerly anticipated Coppa Italia quarter-final clash, Fiorentina and Bologna are poised for a showdown, each bringing unique aspirations and challenges to this pivotal encounter. Fiorentina enter the match with an impressive record, remaining undefeated in 8 of their last 9 matches. Their unbeaten streak in December included a notable 1-1 draw against Roma and a 1-0 victory over Torino, where Luca Ranieri's header secured the win in the 83rd minute.

Recent history in meetings with Bologna have been diverse, with Fiorentina claiming three victories, Bologna securing two triumphs, and one match ending in a draw in their last six encounters. In their most recent clash in November 2023, Fiorentina emerged victorious with a 2-1 scoreline, courtesy of goals from Bonifazi and Nicolas Gonzalez.

Fiorentina have displayed resilience at home this season, losing only twice, while Bologna have notched two wins in away games. With the advantage of playing on their home turf, the Florence-based hosts are favored to secure a narrow victory against Bologna in this crucial Coppa Italia quarter-final.

• W1

Middlesbrough vs Chelsea

As of 2024, Middlesbrough have faced setbacks in their two matches, scoring only once while conceding four goals. Their recent home performances have been lackluster, with just one win in five outings, scoring three goals and conceding eight. On the other hand, Chelsea are displaying their full strength, securing a convincing four-goal victory against a Championship opponent and marking their fifth win in the last six competitive matches. They aim to achieve a four-game winning streak for the first time since October 2022.

Considering the contrasting current form of the two teams and Chelsea's historical dominance in this fixture, the Premier League squad are favored to secure a comfortable victory. Chelsea boast an impressive streak of nine consecutive victories against Middlesbrough. The latest encounter occurred on March 19, 2022, resulting in Chelsea's comfortable 2-0 FA Cup triumph.

• W2

Estoril vs FC Porto

Os Canarinhos aim to bounce back from a significant 5-1 defeat to Sporting CP, but their task doesn't get any easier as they face another formidable challenge against Sergio Conceicao’s Porto. Porto are eager to return to the winning column swiftly, and considering Estoril's vulnerable defense, an away win should be taken into consideration.

Despite Estoril Praia's impressive five-game winning streak at home and maintaining a perfect record against the visitors this season, Porto possess the necessary qualities to secure a victory on the road.

• W2