By Luke Seychell
Your Ultimate Guide to Eurovision 2025 Semi-Final 1 Betting Tips
As the stage is set for the **2025 Eurovision Song Contest**, excitement is mounting for the first semi-final on Tuesday night at **8 PM**. Our betting expert has cut through the noise to bring you three key tips to consider before placing your bets. Read on for insights that could help you make informed decisions!
Top Betting Picks for Semi-Final 1
- Slovenia not to qualify for the final @ 4/6 with Paddy Power
- San Marino to qualify for the final @ 1/1 with Sky Bet
- Portugal to qualify for the final @ 6/1 with bet365
Sweden: The Team to Beat
This year’s Eurovision extravaganza is being hosted in **Switzerland**, thanks to last year’s win by **Sweden**, which holds a remarkable **seven victories**—a record they share with **Ireland**. Early odds place Sweden as even-money favorites to clinch another title, featuring a catchy tune, **”Bara Bad Basta,”** by the group **KAJ**. While the song is playful and engaging, it deviates from the typical polished pop that has charmed audiences in the past.
Despite being favorites to win the entire contest, the odds for Sweden to take home the first semi-final have reached **1/7 with Paddy Power**, making it a less enticing bet. Rather, focus should shift to which acts will advance to the finals, as the **top 10** from each semi-final will progress to join the **“big five”** and the host nation, culminating in a spectacular finale featuring **26 acts**.
Among the first semi-final contenders, nine nations boast odds of **1/4** or shorter for qualification. **Slovenia**, however, is a toss-up with odds of **10/11 to qualify** and **4/6 to miss out**, and this latter outcome is advised. Their song, **“How Much Time Do We Have Left,”** performed by **Klemen**, is a solemn piece regarding his wife’s cancer treatment. A less favorable running order position, starting third, could also hinder their chances of being remembered by voters.
- **Eurovision Tip 1**: Slovenia not to qualify for the final @ 4/6 with Paddy Power
San Marino: A Fresh Sound to Watch
Italy’s influence is palpable this year, showcased by the entry from **San Marino**. The upbeat track **“Tutta L’Italia”** by DJ **Gabry Ponte**, formerly of the famous eurodance band **Eiffel 65**, is captivating audiences and could potentially secure San Marino a spot in the finals after four years of attempting. With Ponte’s established reputation for catchy tunes, this entry stands a good chance to attract votes from neighboring Italy and beyond.
- **Eurovision Tip 2**: San Marino to qualify for the final @ 1/1 with Sky Bet
Portugal: The Dark Horse of the Semi-Final
As an intriguing **outsider**, consider placing a bet on **Portugal** at **6/1**. Their entry, **“Deslocado,”** provides a refreshing acoustic sound amidst a sea of power ballads. Remarkably, Portugal has successfully made it to the finals for the past four years, finishing in the **top 10** during both **2022** and **2024**. With their unique sound, they certainly shouldn’t be overlooked.
- **Eurovision Tip 3**: Portugal to qualify for the final @ 6/1 with bet365
As the night approaches, make sure to analyze these tips carefully and remember to bet responsibly. May the best tunes and performances shine through in this fabulous mishmash of culture, talent, and flair!
