Founded in 1863, Stoke City Football Club is one of the oldest professional clubs in England. Playing mainly in the Championship, the second most important division in English football, the team from Stoke-on-Trent has repeatedly been the focus of attention in the world of sports betting.
Victory over Manchester United (1 February 2014)
One of the most memorable matches in Stoke City's history was their 2-1 victory over Manchester United in the 2013/14 English Premier League season. This match, played at the Britannia Stadium, was a real sensation, as Manchester United, led by David Moyes, were considered the clear favourites. The odds for Stoke City to win this match, according to 666 Gambit Casino, were 5.50–6.00, which made betting on their success very attractive for risk-taking players.
The game began with active attacks from United, but the defence, led by Ryan Shawcross, held firm. In the 38th minute, Charlie Adam opened the scoring with a free kick, beating David De Gea. In the second half, Manchester United equalised thanks to a goal from Robin van Persie, but Stoke City did not give up. In the 52nd minute, Adam scored his second goal with a powerful shot from outside the penalty area. This goal proved to be decisive. Despite pressure from the favourites in the final minutes, the Potters held on to secure their first Premier League win over United since 1984.
Success against Chelsea (7 December 2013)
Another match that could have brought big winnings was Stoke City's 3-2 victory over Chelsea in the 2013/14 Premier League season. Chelsea, led by José Mourinho, were considered one of the main contenders for the title, and the odds for a Stoke City win ranged from 7.00 to 8.00.
The game started with a quick goal from Chelsea: André Schürrle put the visitors ahead in the 9th minute. However, Stoke City responded in the 42nd minute when Craig Dawson equalised. In the second half, the teams exchanged goals: Stephen Ireland scored for Stoke City, and Schürrle completed his brace for Chelsea. The decisive moment came in the 90th minute when substitute Oussama Assaidi scored with a superb left-footed strike to give Stoke City the victory.
Cup triumph against Rochdale (26 January 2015)
In the 2014/15 FA Cup, Stoke City secured a confident 4-1 victory over League One side Rochdale. Although Stoke City were considered favourites, the odds for a big win (e.g. by a margin of three goals) reached 4.00-5.00, which attracted the attention of players betting on cup matches, where upsets are not uncommon.
The match took place at the Spotland Stadium. Stoke City dominated from the opening minutes, with Bojan Krkic scoring the first goal in the 4th minute, taking advantage of a defensive error. In the 35th minute, Stephen Ireland doubled the lead, and in the second half, Jonathan Walters and Victor Moses made it a rout. Rochdale managed to score only a consolation goal.
Victory over Manchester City (5 December 2015)
Another highlight in Stoke City's history is their 2-0 victory over Manchester City in the 2015/16 Premier League season. Manchester City, led by Manuel Pellegrini, was one of the leaders of the championship, and the odds for a Stoke City victory were 6.50–7.50.
The game at the Britannia Stadium began with a quick goal from Marko Arnautovic, who finished off a cross from Joselu in the 7th minute. In the 15th minute, Arnautovic scored his second goal, taking advantage of a pass from Xherdan Shaqiri. Stoke City completely controlled the game, not allowing City to create any dangerous moments. Goalkeeper Jack Butland had an outstanding match, saving several difficult shots. In the second half, the Potters confidently maintained their lead, and Manchester City was unable to find a response.