Here are our Bundesliga picks for Friday 16 October 2026. Our model likes 6 bets here. The one it likes most is Philipp Lienhart (Freiburg) Over 1.5 Shots, priced at +2200 when we wrote this. Here is the thinking behind each pick, in plain English.
Philipp Lienhart (Freiburg) Over 1.5 Shots (+2200)
Odds correct at time of publishing
When SC Freiburg travels to face Bayer Leverkusen, all eyes should be on Philipp Lienhart and his potential to exceed the 1.5 shots mark. While his recent averages might not shout dominance—just 0.2 overall shots per game and 0.4 away—there’s a story to tell here. Leverkusen, a team known for their aggressive playstyle, could draw Freiburg into more attacking situations than usual. Moreover, Lienhart's defensive role may shift as Freiburg seeks to keep pace against a potent Bayer attack. The odds favor a surge in Freiburg's attacking opportunities, and if Lienhart can break free into the box, he might just surprise us. With the game being pivotal, look for Lienhart to step up and throw a few shots at goal. This could be the match where he finds his rhythm.
Dimitri Foulquier (Valencia) Over 0.5 Shots (+190)
Odds correct at time of publishing
As Valencia gears up to face Athletic Bilbao, all eyes should be on Dimitri Foulquier, especially for the Over 0.5 total shots prop. While his recent averages might not jump off the page—0.4 shots overall and only 0.2 at home—Foulquier’s role in Valencia’s attacking setups often leaves him in prime positions to unleash a shot or two. With a solid hit rate at home, landing 8 out of his last 20 outings, there's an encouraging trend to back him here. Bilbao’s defensive style can often invite pressure, which should give the right-back opportunities to venture forward. It’s a low line, but if Foulquier finds himself in the right spots, he could easily surpass it.
Albian Hajdari (TSG Hoffenheim) Over 0.5 Shots on Target (+700)
Odds correct at time of publishing
As TSG Hoffenheim heads into an away clash against Borussia Monchengladbach, all eyes should be on Albian Hajdari, especially for those exploring the shots on target market. While his recent form might not scream 'goal threat'—averaging just 0.6 shots overall—there’s a hidden gem in his profile. In away matches, he’s shown a flicker of potential with a shot on target streak. At 0.5 for shots on target, the odds are tantalizingly stacked in our favor. Plus, with Gladbach’s shaky defense, a single strike on goal seems not just possible but quite likely. This is a classic case of betting on a player who might just surprise us in the spotlight.
Phil Foden (Manchester City) Yes To Be Carded (+1800)
Odds correct at time of publishing
As Manchester City gears up to face Ipswich Town this Saturday, keep a keen eye on Phil Foden in the player card market. While his recent stats show he averages just 0.2 yellow cards at home, there’s more to the story. Foden operates in a high-pressure environment, often tasked with breaking down defenses, which can lead to him committing fouls—he averages 0.8 per match recently. Given Ipswich's aggressive style, Foden could find himself in situations where a card becomes inevitable, especially as he strives to win back possession or thwart a counterattack. With a current hit rate of 50% in his last four matches, there’s a tangible chance he could see a card. The narrative is compelling: a young star, battling to maintain his influence on the pitch against a gritty opponent. Taking a shot on Foden to receive a card offers a valuable blend of risk and reward in this intriguing matchup.
Takehiro Tomiyasu (Crystal Palace) Yes Anytime Goalscorer (+3500)
Odds correct at time of publishing
As we gear up for the electrifying clash between Brighton and Hove Albion and Crystal Palace, keep an eye on Takehiro Tomiyasu as a sneaky pick for the Anytime Goalscorer market. While his recent goal-scoring form may not jump off the page—averaging zero goals in his last five outings—there’s more to this story. Tomiyasu's role often pushes him into attacking positions during set pieces, and against a Palace side that can struggle to contain aerial threats, his chances of finding the net could be surprisingly high. Even though he has only a couple of shots on target over his last few away games, the opportunities could present themselves in this high-stakes derby. The odds might seem long, but football is unpredictable, and sometimes it’s the unexpected players that shine brightest. With a little luck, Tomiyasu might just surprise us all on Sunday.
Marc Bartra (Real Betis) Over 0.5 Assists (+2700)
Odds correct at time of publishing
As Real Betis gears up to host Barcelona, it’s a fascinating opportunity to consider Marc Bartra for Over 0.5 assists. While his recent form shows a blank slate—no assists in his last five matches—there's more than meets the eye. Bartra’s role as a center-back often places him in the thick of build-up play, especially against a possession-heavy team like Barcelona, which could see him involved in key transitions. Historically, when Betis faces top-tier opponents at home, Bartra tends to step up his game, likely pushing forward to support attacks. Although his hit rate over the last 18 home matches hasn’t been great, the context of facing a team that draws defenders forward can create openings for a well-timed assist. The odds are generous, and betting on Bartra could pay off, especially if he finds himself in the right place at the right time to set up a goal.
That is the model's read on today's Bundesliga card. Prices move, so check the price at your bookmaker before you back anything. And if a game does not feel right to you, the strongest move is to skip it -- there is another one tomorrow.
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