Eurovision 2024 semi-final 2 winner 'sealed' as new data hints at clear favourite

Eurovision 2024 semi-final 2 winner 'sealed' as new data hints at clear favourite
Eurovision audience boo and shout 'free Palestine' during Israel performance.mp4
Lauren Williams

By Lauren Williams


Published: 09/05/2024

- 08:45

Updated: 09/05/2024

- 08:51

The second round of semi-finals takes place tonight with 16 countries battling it out for a place in the final


Eurovision fans are eagerly waiting for the final of the contest to take place on Saturday, May 11 to see who'll be crowned this year's winner - but bookmakers think they have already identified the 2024 victor.

Joost Klein for the Netherlands, Nemo for Switzerland and Eden Golan for Israel will take to the stage tonight to show off their singing and performance skills for the second round of the semi-finals.


However, without performing, it seems that the Netherlands already has this year's win in the bag according to some bookmakers.

Gambling.com has priced the Netherlands at 4/9 to win the second round of semi-finals, alongside odds of 11/10 to finish in the Top 5 in Saturday's showpiece.

Switzerland has 4/1 odds with most bookmakers in the UK, and whilst some feel they won't get enough votes to win the round, some are confident that Nemo will knock off overall favourite Croatia.

Despite the controversy surrounding its involvement, Israel is the third favourite to win semi-final two at 8/1 on special betting sites - with the catchy tune bound to attract plenty of TV votes.

Bambie Thug

Bambie Thug made Ireland history after making it through to the final since 2018

BBC

However, its chances of winning the entire contest don't sit well as they are priced up at 35/1.

Israel's participation in this year's contest has caused some controversy and protest, with calls for them to be axed due to the conflict in Gaza.

This could have an impact on the outcome of the second semi-final, meaning Greece could capitalise and come out on top, considering they are priced at 4/7 to finish in the overall Top 10.

Israel's participation has come with some backlash which transpired last night after representative Eden Golan was booed and drowned out of the arena by angry attendees.

Eric Saade

Eric was spoken to by Eurovision officials after wearing a pro-Palestine scarf during his performance

BBC

In footage posted on social media, Golan tried her best to put on a good show, but became overwhelmed by audience members chanting "Free Palestine".

It is clearly stated on Eurovision's website that peaceful protest is allowed and reads: "The EBU is a firm advocate for freedom of speech and the right for people to express their deeply held views and opinions.

"We understand that people may wish to make their voices heard and support the right of those who wish to demonstrate peacefully."

The Israel-Hamas conflict has dominated this year's contest after two singers were spoken to by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) for their pro-Palestine symbols and song lyrics.

Eurovision

The second set of semi-finals kick off tonight

REUTERS

Swedish singer Eric Saade - who opened the first semis - caused the EBU "regret" after he wore a scarf with the keffiyeh symbol around his arm during his performance.

Ireland's act Bambie Thug was also impacted by their choice to support pro-Palestine after being told to change some of their costume choices and lyrics to the song which landed them a place in the final after 18 years.

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