Eurovision Song Contest – Ones To Watch

on May 9, 2017 at 3:37 pm

It’s Eurovision Song Contest week, so here is everything you need to know.

Where?
Kiev, after Ukraine won last year with Jamala’s 1944.

When?
Semi-final 1 takes place on Tuesday at 8pm-10.05pm, RTE2.
Semi-final 2 (when Ireland performs) takes place on Thursday at 8pm-10.05pm, RTE2.
Final 8pm-11.30pm, RTE One.

Semi-final 1
18 countries will perform on Tuesday of which only 10 will qualify for the final on Saturday.

Ones To Watch
Portugal jumped to the head of the betting on Tuesday following a burst of support which saw them cut into the new favourites to win the semi-final. They are also 5/1 second favourites to win outright. Their track ‘Amar Pelos Dois’ will be performed by Salvador Sobral whom the public absolutely adore. I just hope they find him a tailor before tonight’s performance.

7/4 to win the semi-final. 1/50 to qualify.

Australia have only been competing in the Eurovision since 2015, but last year they were semi-final 1 winners and overall runners-up, making them ones to watch. They have gone with a slow burner this year with ‘Don’t’ Come East’ by Isaiah.

33/1 to win the semi-final. 1/6 to qualify.

Poland have gone for the overly melodramatic vibe with Kasia Mos and Flashlight, but as we all know, this works and works very well. It’s dramatic, repetitive and catchy, all the elements needed to make a song a Eurovision success, however their odds suggest they will make it through by the skin of their teeth.

25/1 to win the semi-final. 4/6 to qualify.

Armenia’s song Fly With Me by Artsvik may not be as strong as the rest, but they have gone all out for their stage show which might just book them a place in the final. Armenia are current second favourites having lost out on the top spot in the betting to Portugal on Tuesday.

7/4 to win the semi-final. 1/50 to qualify.

2015 winners Sweden have gone very 90s with their performance which is sure to delight every Eurovision enthusiast. ‘I Can’t Go On’ performed by Robin Bengtsson is complete with dance moves that are reminiscent of Olly Murs.

10/3 to win the semi-final. 1/50 to qualify.