Despite all the pundits writing them off early, Fulham have gone from strength to strength in the Europa Cup competition and now find themselves competing for the major prize – the cup itself. Tonight they go head to head with Atletico Madrid, another side that many thought would not go the distance.

The match is to be played in Hamburg so neither team has a home advantage. For Fulham, their small advantage is that they played here a couple of weeks ago in the first leg of their semi-final against Hamburg – and did themselves proud holding the home team scoreless. Can they repeat the effort tonight? Bookmakers have quoted Fulham as outsiders in the final with odds ranging from 5/2 to 3/1. Atletico Madrid have been fairly firm at 6/5 although there are a few online bookmakers offering evens.

The ninety minute draw is being quoted at 5/2. Interestingly, in outright betting (no draws), Atletico Madrid is at 8/13 with Fulham at 8/5.  The question then is whether or not you think Fulham can go that one extra step and take the title? In theory, Atletico deserves their favouritsm, however, you can’t help but feel that since Fulham have managed to continue to scramble to victory throughout the series, that this may well be their year.

At 3/1 in ninety minute betting, they are well worth a wager or two. I would even add the draw at 5/2 – bet wisely and you will still profit from either result. If there is one thing that can be learned from their campaign to date – it’s their ability to defend the goal square. They have been one of the meanest teams in the competition and that speaks volumes compared to those they have played against. Can Fulham pull off their biggest win ever? Online bookmakers may not think so, but I do and I think it could be good for club football in the UK – a small club making it in the big-time.