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| Cristiano Ronaldo |
Showing posts with label soccer news. Show all posts
Showing posts with label soccer news. Show all posts
Thursday, March 6, 2014
Ronaldo becomes Portugal’s all-time leading goalscorer
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Puyol to leave Barcelona at the end of the season
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| Carles Puyol |
Barcelona to make Messi world’s highest paid player
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| Lionel Messi |
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Champions League Prediction 11/20/2012
Juventus - Chelsea 2.00 - 4.50
Without their main man Pirlo Juventus failed to break down a stubborn Lazio defence at the weekend. Pirlo will of course return for this crucial encounter. Vucinic is their only injury doubt.
Di Matteo, as expected, rested several of his usual starters against WBA. It back fired, but Mata, Oscar, A Cole, Ivanovic and Ramires will all be back tomorrow. J Terry is out injured. Quite possible that Di Matteo will keep F Torres on the bench. Chelsea could do with a strong striker, but also Juventus could use a powerful front man. Giovinco, Matri, Quagliarella, Vucinic and Bendtner are their options and one must say that they are better equipped offensively than Chelsea. 1X game.
Di Matteo, as expected, rested several of his usual starters against WBA. It back fired, but Mata, Oscar, A Cole, Ivanovic and Ramires will all be back tomorrow. J Terry is out injured. Quite possible that Di Matteo will keep F Torres on the bench. Chelsea could do with a strong striker, but also Juventus could use a powerful front man. Giovinco, Matri, Quagliarella, Vucinic and Bendtner are their options and one must say that they are better equipped offensively than Chelsea. 1X game.
Spartak Moscow - Barcelona 11.00 - 1.40
I noticed that Emenike was playing upfront for Spartak in their last league game together with Ari. Tomorrow they will be without the suspended Pareja and the injured Biyaletdinov, McGeady, Welliton and Parshivlyuk. Spartak have on going keeper problems. K Källström, the Swedish international midfielder, sat on the bench at the weekend, but I expect him back for this game.
The young Barcelona defender Bartra joins Alexis Sanchez on their injury list. We will finally see their two central defenders Pique and Puyol playing together again. Barcelona missed a lot of scoring opportunities away to Celtic, or the Celtic keeper played an outstanding game. You choose! Barcelona were in trouble at home to Spartak and I expect the Catalans to be 100% focused on tomorrow’s match, especially after their negative result vs. Celtic. I am not at all impressed by Spartak and Barca should win this fixture.
The young Barcelona defender Bartra joins Alexis Sanchez on their injury list. We will finally see their two central defenders Pique and Puyol playing together again. Barcelona missed a lot of scoring opportunities away to Celtic, or the Celtic keeper played an outstanding game. You choose! Barcelona were in trouble at home to Spartak and I expect the Catalans to be 100% focused on tomorrow’s match, especially after their negative result vs. Celtic. I am not at all impressed by Spartak and Barca should win this fixture.
Galatasaray - Manchester Utd 2.20 - 3.60
Should be an easy task for the home side. Unfortunately nothing is easy and straightforward for this Galatasaray side, but if they fail to defeat a bunch of United reserves then they will be famous for the very wrong reasons. Galatasaray could not win at home to ten man Cluj, they lost last week at home to a Turkish mid table side 1-3, but in between they played a strong game away to Cluj. J Elmander was back on the bench last week. The United coach will use fringe players , rest assured of that. You never know with this Gala side, but you just have to back them this time.
Nordsjälland - Shaktar Donetsk 10.65 - 1.38
Although Shaktar rather comfortably won their home fixture against this Danish side 2-0 I recall that Nordsjälland dominated the ball possession. This does not necessarily mean anything, but so far Nordsjälland have never been outplayed and certainly not in Copenhagen. This I state although they lost 0-4 vs. Chelsea. The last three Chelsea goals came very late in the game with Nordsjälland hitting the wood work before that. M Parkhurst, Mtiliga and M Bekkmann will all be part of the home squad tomorrow and they only miss the injured winger A Laudrup.
Shaktar were better than Chelsea and it was harsh for the Ukrainians losing the match 2-3. They were also the better side in their other away game at Juventus (1-1) They are in truth a great side, but worth backing as 1.38 winners? Not for me.
Shaktar were better than Chelsea and it was harsh for the Ukrainians losing the match 2-3. They were also the better side in their other away game at Juventus (1-1) They are in truth a great side, but worth backing as 1.38 winners? Not for me.
Bate Borisov - Lille 2.20 - 4.00
The Belo Russian league champions could still reach a place in the play offs, but they are almost secured a place in the Europa League. For Lille it is practically a dead rubber situation, as they are pointless in this group.
I watched Lille against Lorient last Friday. I had backed Lille, but I stopped watching the game after the first half. I was embarrassed. That is how unbelievably bad Lille were in the first half. They lost the match 0-2 and I believe their coach was more upset than I was.
How will Lille treat this match? The Lille coach will demand an instant reaction, or they will leave this game alone focusing on their match with Marseille this coming weekend? Well Lille have travelled with a strong squad. I only missed Balmont, Debuchy, Chedjou and De Melo.
This match will take place in Minsk and the pitch is supposed to be in very poor condition.
Bate will fight for prize money and for their chance of qualifying. Betting on the home win is the only sound choice, but I do not feel quite comfortable backing Bate. You know how it is. I backed Lille last Friday, they lost, then I go the other way, opposing them tomorrow. I do not want to double my losses
I watched Lille against Lorient last Friday. I had backed Lille, but I stopped watching the game after the first half. I was embarrassed. That is how unbelievably bad Lille were in the first half. They lost the match 0-2 and I believe their coach was more upset than I was.
How will Lille treat this match? The Lille coach will demand an instant reaction, or they will leave this game alone focusing on their match with Marseille this coming weekend? Well Lille have travelled with a strong squad. I only missed Balmont, Debuchy, Chedjou and De Melo.
This match will take place in Minsk and the pitch is supposed to be in very poor condition.
Bate will fight for prize money and for their chance of qualifying. Betting on the home win is the only sound choice, but I do not feel quite comfortable backing Bate. You know how it is. I backed Lille last Friday, they lost, then I go the other way, opposing them tomorrow. I do not want to double my losses
Valencia - Bayern Munich 3.72 - 2.20
I like this Valencia side. I know, they are often underperforming, but I like the way they change the pace of the game. It is done in an instant and they have the offensive players capable of threatening this Bayern side. Soldado, Jonas, Feghouli, to name a few. Gago and J Pereira will not play for Valencia tomorrow, but Cissokho will be available again.
Without both Ribery and Robben Bayern could only draw their away game at the weekend at Nurnberg. Robben remains sidelined, but Ribery will play tomorrow and fit again M Gomez is back, starting on the bench. I have no choice. The odds on the home win has to be backed. Over game? I think so.
Without both Ribery and Robben Bayern could only draw their away game at the weekend at Nurnberg. Robben remains sidelined, but Ribery will play tomorrow and fit again M Gomez is back, starting on the bench. I have no choice. The odds on the home win has to be backed. Over game? I think so.
Benfica - Celtic 1.52 - 8.20
When Cardozo entered the game in the second half Benfica became much more of an offensive force against Spartak. He scored, he missed a penalty and he made the difference. No guarantee, however, that he will be included in their starting line up tomorrow. The Benfica skipper Luisao will be back tomorrow, back from his suspension. Matic is considered a major injury doubt.
Celtic rested several of their Barcelona heroes at the weekend. Tomorrow S Brown, K Commons, J Ledley, G Hooper, Miku and G Samaras will all be in contention.
Benfica do not lose often in their European home fixtures and they are motivated favourites. Saying that I think the odds on the home win are way too short.
Celtic rested several of their Barcelona heroes at the weekend. Tomorrow S Brown, K Commons, J Ledley, G Hooper, Miku and G Samaras will all be in contention.
Benfica do not lose often in their European home fixtures and they are motivated favourites. Saying that I think the odds on the home win are way too short.
Cluj - Braga 3.06 - 2.50
I am at a loss here. Outstanding odds on the home win, but maybe the Cluj form is too poor. I was not happy with Braga two weeks ago. They just fell apart late on against Man United. My only explanation is their fear of Van Persie. He came on in the second half and turned the game in favour of United. It is just that Braga were 1-0 up and they should have done better.
According to reports Cluj were really poor last week going down to Astra in a home fixture. New match, new circumstances and if nothing else will help me, I will back the better odds.
According to reports Cluj were really poor last week going down to Astra in a home fixture. New match, new circumstances and if nothing else will help me, I will back the better odds.
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
EUROPE : Champions League - Group Stage
Chelsea - Shaktar Donetsk 2.06 - 4.00
Both J Mata and D Luiz are expected back for Chelsea and then we will see if J Terry will play or not. I think he will play. Last season Chelsea found themselves in a similar situation like this one. They had lost down in Naples 1-3, but could defeat Napoli 4-1 in the return leg. This game against Shaktar is of course just a group game, but you sense that Chelsea have to win this match, or they can probably forget about advancing to the play offs.
Can they match the Shaktar speed? Not really and there is the big problem, in my opinion.
This fixture can turn out to be one the classical games in Europe. To stop Shaktar from scoring is close to impossible and Chelsea have to score two goals, maybe three, to be the winners here? Will they do it? I have my doubts.
Can they match the Shaktar speed? Not really and there is the big problem, in my opinion.
This fixture can turn out to be one the classical games in Europe. To stop Shaktar from scoring is close to impossible and Chelsea have to score two goals, maybe three, to be the winners here? Will they do it? I have my doubts.
Celtic - Barcelona 11.30 - 1.35
Will the Celtic players be able to play the same kind of disciplined, defensive game at the Celtic Park as they managed at the Camp Nou Stadium? Well, they have to, or they will be punished severely. Barca will miss Adriano and Busquets tomorrow, but G Pique is back in their squad. Dani Alves is also available again.
Celtic hope to have both G Samaras and G Hooper back tomorrow, but their Norwegian T Rogne, Izaguirre and J Forrest are in grave danger of missing this game.
Barcelona are definitely not desperate for points at the moment, but playing a friendly game or not, they usually are scoring their three-four customary goals. So this game will probably end the same way as it usually does, with Barcelona winning it.
Celtic hope to have both G Samaras and G Hooper back tomorrow, but their Norwegian T Rogne, Izaguirre and J Forrest are in grave danger of missing this game.
Barcelona are definitely not desperate for points at the moment, but playing a friendly game or not, they usually are scoring their three-four customary goals. So this game will probably end the same way as it usually does, with Barcelona winning it.
Braga - Manchester Utd 3.50 - 2.31
United have not been in convincing form in Europe this far but facts remain, they are on maximum nine points after three rounds of group football. Coach Ferguson would want to make their qualifying safe as soon as possible, looking for a positive result in Portugal. To win away to Braga Ferguson has to send out his best players, or that is what I think anyway.
Braga were 2-0 up at Old Trafford and they will face this match with a decent amount of confidence. Braga are pretty close to the class of Benfica these days, maybe even Porto.
It looks like the United coach Ferguson may shuffle the pack tomorrow and will we see too many Giggs and Scholes, you know what I mean, then I am prepared to back this Braga side, a Braga side in very good form and with all their best players available. Home win for now.
Braga were 2-0 up at Old Trafford and they will face this match with a decent amount of confidence. Braga are pretty close to the class of Benfica these days, maybe even Porto.
It looks like the United coach Ferguson may shuffle the pack tomorrow and will we see too many Giggs and Scholes, you know what I mean, then I am prepared to back this Braga side, a Braga side in very good form and with all their best players available. Home win for now.
Juventus - Nordsjälland 1.16 - 23.00
The home side will most certainly be able to create enough of scoring chances to grab the three points, but it is not always the easy part for Juventus, to find the net, I mean. They did enough to win the match in Copenhagen, but they were too wasteful on the day.
Vucinic will be rested for Juventus, probably also Giovinco and then it is between Matri, Quagliarella and Bendtner for two starting roles upfront. Pogba will most likely start tomorrow. Nordsjälland will probably be unchanged, or N Stockholm will not be ready. Home winner.
Vucinic will be rested for Juventus, probably also Giovinco and then it is between Matri, Quagliarella and Bendtner for two starting roles upfront. Pogba will most likely start tomorrow. Nordsjälland will probably be unchanged, or N Stockholm will not be ready. Home winner.
Valencia - Bate Borisov 1.29 - 16.01
I waited for Bate to take the lead in the first leg two weeks ago. They were the better side in the first half, but then Valencia were rewarded a late penalty, scored and the match changed for the worse for Bate. They had to chase the game and they too often lost the ball in the middle of the pitch with Valencia deadly dangerous on their speed counter attacks.
I have to say, I love the way that Valencia change the pace of the game. It is done in an instant, very effective and that is modern football, in my opinion. Quite fit Valencia squad only missing J Mathieu. They defeated Atletico Madrid at the weekend and I cannot really see Valencia dropping any points against this Belo Russian side. Bate will miss the suspended Pavlov. Once again, home win, but quite worthless odds.
I have to say, I love the way that Valencia change the pace of the game. It is done in an instant, very effective and that is modern football, in my opinion. Quite fit Valencia squad only missing J Mathieu. They defeated Atletico Madrid at the weekend and I cannot really see Valencia dropping any points against this Belo Russian side. Bate will miss the suspended Pavlov. Once again, home win, but quite worthless odds.
Bayern Munich - Lille 1.20 - 19.40
A good side like Lille on zero points after three rounds in this group. They got off to the worst possible start losing at home to Bate Borisov in their first game. Talk about damage done. Basa, Beria and Debuchy, all early injury doubts, have been cleared to play and Mavuba could start.
Robben was on the bench for Bayern at the weekend when his side defeated Hamburg, with ease one must say. I missed no one in particular in the Bayern squad, M Gomes aside, and you always expect a full strength Bayern side to win their home games in Europe. Robben will start tomorrow and maybe we will see Javi Martinez as well. Home win, but the odds are of course quite useless.
Robben was on the bench for Bayern at the weekend when his side defeated Hamburg, with ease one must say. I missed no one in particular in the Bayern squad, M Gomes aside, and you always expect a full strength Bayern side to win their home games in Europe. Robben will start tomorrow and maybe we will see Javi Martinez as well. Home win, but the odds are of course quite useless.
Benfica - Spartak Moscow 1.65 - 6.40
So far nothing great from Benfica, but they usually are very strong in their European home fixtures. Losing their only home game against Barcelona does not change my opinion.
An own goal from Jardel gifted Spartak the win in Moscow, but at the end of the day Spartak deserved the win. It was cold in Moscow and it was a difficult night for Benfica. Gaitan and Cardozo, will they start this time for Benfica? They were benched in Moscow. Matic will not play due to a suspension.
At least two Spartak players, missing two weeks ago, will return for this match. I am referring to Insaurralde and and De Zeeuw. Mc Geady, Emenike, Welliton and Romulo are among their many injury victims. Advantage Benfica, but what about the odds? Probably OK.
An own goal from Jardel gifted Spartak the win in Moscow, but at the end of the day Spartak deserved the win. It was cold in Moscow and it was a difficult night for Benfica. Gaitan and Cardozo, will they start this time for Benfica? They were benched in Moscow. Matic will not play due to a suspension.
At least two Spartak players, missing two weeks ago, will return for this match. I am referring to Insaurralde and and De Zeeuw. Mc Geady, Emenike, Welliton and Romulo are among their many injury victims. Advantage Benfica, but what about the odds? Probably OK.
Cluj - Galatasaray 2.70 - 2.88
It was a must win game for Galatasaray two weeks ago. The rain poured down when the Turks failed to defeat Cluj (1-1), although Cluj were down the ten men in the second half. F Melo missed a penalty for Galatasaray. J Elmander will not play for Gala, no F Melo either, while the Romanians will be without their suspended midfielder Aguirregaray. I cannot really back up this bet, but I end up supporting the away win.
Monday, November 5, 2012
Manchester City - Ajax Champions League
Manchester City still in search for their first win in European football this season.
Although unbeaten domestically this season – Roberto Mancini's men have failed to register a win in the UEFA Champions League this season. With one point to their name and progression looking progressivly unlikely – Mancini has a few problems prior to the game.
City are last in group D having collecting one point from a possible nine. City will feel they deserved a point at Madrid – whilst a hard fought draw against Dortmund will be seen as a point gained for Mancini rather than two lost. However a 3-1 defeat to Ajax has ensured Man City face severe difficulties
Ajax are third now in Group D having failed to win either of their first two games. Although a win against Manchester City has ensured that qualifaction is a minor possibility. However, with Borussia Dortmund and Real Madrid in the Group - qualification looks unlikely for the four time European Champions – who have failed to live up to their past in recent European competitions.
AC Milan - Malaga Champions League
PROBABLE LINEUPS
AC MILANAmelia,Mexes, Bonera, Zapata,Abate, Montolivo, Ambrosini, Emanuelson,Bojan, Pazzini, El Shaarawy
MALAGA
Caballero,Gamez, Weligton, Demichelis, Eliseu,Camacho,Joaquin, Isco, Portillo, Duda,Saviola
Malaga face the toughest test of their inaugural Champions League campaign as they travel to the San Siro to face the seven-time winners AC Milan.
The Rossoneri will be eager to recover some pride against the Andalusians following their 1-0 defeat at La Rosaleda, and look in good form to do so after the 5-1 thumping of Chievo.
Premier League Prediction 6/11/12
W B A - Southampton 1.75 - 5.06
I talk about luck every now and then, but do not take it too literally. WBA deserved more from their visit to St James last week and they probably also deserved something from their home game against Man City the week before. So it has not been going the WBA way lately, although they have played some decent football. This they have done from day one this season.
Southampton as expected fielded reserves against Leeds in the cup and we will see a well rested and well prepared Saints squad for this match. Home win, I guess.
Southampton as expected fielded reserves against Leeds in the cup and we will see a well rested and well prepared Saints squad for this match. Home win, I guess.
Friday, November 2, 2012
Football Betting Prediction
Ajaccio - Marseille 3.81 - 2.20
I am not trusting Marseille at all at the moment and this price on the home win is well worth backing. Ajaccio remain unbeaten at Corsica and they have yet to concede a single goal in their home fixtures. They were 4-1 up away to Lorient last week in a crazy game with the match ending in a 4-4 draw. Ajaccio really should have scored more goals. They missed several great scoring opportunities. Mutu scored his first goal for the club playing alongside Eduardo in their front line.
Marseille have lost their last three away games, vs. Troyes in the league, vs. Borussia M. in Europe and in midweek against PSG in the domestic cup. They have looked too predictable, too slow lately. Both their strikers Gignac and A Ayew will miss this game. Fanni, defender, will be suspended and fit again Diawara could replace him, or L Mendez will. Backing the outsider.
Marseille have lost their last three away games, vs. Troyes in the league, vs. Borussia M. in Europe and in midweek against PSG in the domestic cup. They have looked too predictable, too slow lately. Both their strikers Gignac and A Ayew will miss this game. Fanni, defender, will be suspended and fit again Diawara could replace him, or L Mendez will. Backing the outsider.
Brest - Lorient 2.94 - 2.66
Derby game tonight and I like the odds on the home win. Brest are 3-1-0 in their home fixtures and for this match they will be able to call on their striker Ben Basat again along with defender I Traore. No Chafni.
Defender Le Lan will be available again for Lorient, but Emeghara is suspended also this week. L Kone is new on their injury list joining among others Ecuele Mange. Lorient have struggled a bit of late and away from home they are 1-3-1. The home win is over priced in my opinion and Brest will get my vote.
Defender Le Lan will be available again for Lorient, but Emeghara is suspended also this week. L Kone is new on their injury list joining among others Ecuele Mange. Lorient have struggled a bit of late and away from home they are 1-3-1. The home win is over priced in my opinion and Brest will get my vote.
Fulham - Everton 2.78 - 2.67
Who is missing Clint Dempsey these days? I for one thought that Fulham would struggle without the American, but so far, no problems. Jol’s Fulham have become one of the most entertaining sides in the Premiership. I missed the new Swedish star Kacaniklic last week when Fulham drew 3-3 at Reading, but he should be back for this match.
Everton will be able to call on S Pienaar again. D Gibson will be missing and probably K Mirallas as well. D Berbatov is a case of concern for Fulham and I need him playing to actually back the home win. In that case, decent odds on the Fulham home win.
Everton will be able to call on S Pienaar again. D Gibson will be missing and probably K Mirallas as well. D Berbatov is a case of concern for Fulham and I need him playing to actually back the home win. In that case, decent odds on the Fulham home win.
Liverpool - Newcastle 1.61 - 6.90
One thing you can always rely upon. Liverpool continue to be underpriced in their home fixtures. It has always been like that and the odds on display this time certainly prove my thesis. Liverpool are heading in the right direction, no doubt about that, but so far they have not played any cracking home games.
Newcastle are certainly no pushovers, although they were plain lucky last week winning against WBA after a below par display. There has been some great games between these two sides and I will never forget when Keegan’s Newcastle were beaten 3-4 at Anfield and losing the title to Man United. No bet game for this writer, or something on the away win.
Newcastle are certainly no pushovers, although they were plain lucky last week winning against WBA after a below par display. There has been some great games between these two sides and I will never forget when Keegan’s Newcastle were beaten 3-4 at Anfield and losing the title to Man United. No bet game for this writer, or something on the away win.
Manchester Utd - Arsenal 1.73 - 5.50
I would love to back my team Arsenal in this match. United on the other side and the juicy price on the outsider, but I cannot do it. Gervinho has joined Diaby, Gibbs and Szczesny on the sidelines. Wilshere, Sagna and Walcott could all feature tomorrow and Oxlade-Chamberlain will have a late fitness test.
It seems like the United coach Ferguson has at last found his team. With A Young and Valencia on the two flanks United have a very effective midfield again and you cannot better their offensive duo, can you?
Arsenal got their all important win against QPR, but they are not playing like a top side for the time being. Hopefully they will relish this moment, facing United as big outsiders, and produce a classical Arsenal display with the emphasis on speedy counter attacks. That is what I hope, but at the end of the day I expect United to be the winners. The odds on the home win, however, are the worst for a long time.
It seems like the United coach Ferguson has at last found his team. With A Young and Valencia on the two flanks United have a very effective midfield again and you cannot better their offensive duo, can you?
Arsenal got their all important win against QPR, but they are not playing like a top side for the time being. Hopefully they will relish this moment, facing United as big outsiders, and produce a classical Arsenal display with the emphasis on speedy counter attacks. That is what I hope, but at the end of the day I expect United to be the winners. The odds on the home win, however, are the worst for a long time.
Norwich - Stoke 2.76 - 2.82
Better looking Norwich side these last two weeks. They just look more confident, more likely to score goals and G Holt is slowly finding his form again. R Snodgrass is fit again and he played most of the second half against Aston Villa.
I will not start criticizing Stoke after their 0-0 game against Sunderland. You know what to expect from Stoke and everything pointed to a drab non football affair vs. a Sunderland team lacking constructive ideas. Stoke lost M Wilson to an injury and he will be missing for a while. G Whelan could return for tomorrow’s game. Norwich need fresh legs to defeat Stoke and they may suffer a bit after their midweek cup game against Tottenham.
I will not start criticizing Stoke after their 0-0 game against Sunderland. You know what to expect from Stoke and everything pointed to a drab non football affair vs. a Sunderland team lacking constructive ideas. Stoke lost M Wilson to an injury and he will be missing for a while. G Whelan could return for tomorrow’s game. Norwich need fresh legs to defeat Stoke and they may suffer a bit after their midweek cup game against Tottenham.
Q P R - Reading 1.95 - 4.65
Too many QPR players are sent off and their poor discipline has become costly. The one to blame must be their coach. It started with J Barton and D Cisse and last week it was M’Bia who was shown the red card and his stupidity cost QPR a valuable point. QPR were 2-1 up at home to Reading in a cup game earlier this season, but they ended up losing the match 2-3.
What will be the Reading confidence and self esteem be like on Sunday after their extraordinary topsy turvy game against the Arsenal reserves. They were 4-0 up playing some great stuff, but ended up losing the match 5-7. I will back QPR to win their first league game of the season.
What will be the Reading confidence and self esteem be like on Sunday after their extraordinary topsy turvy game against the Arsenal reserves. They were 4-0 up playing some great stuff, but ended up losing the match 5-7. I will back QPR to win their first league game of the season.
Sunderland - Aston Villa 2.12 - 4.00
Six goals in their eight league games and five of them scored by S Fletcher, that is Sunderland(1-6-1 this far) Why they have become such a low scoring team I cannot say, but could be that their wing play is not working like before. Yes and Sessegnon has not been close to his best form from last season. Sunderland fired blanks again in midweek at home to Middlesbrough in the cup (0-1 loss) and then you should know that they started with practically their strongest side, only missing Seb Larsson.
Villa have similar problems having scored one more goal than Sunderland, but they have played one game more in the league. Villa, at least, found the net against Swindon in the cup, scoring three goals. J Bennett will be back from his suspension for this game, but they lose their midfielder El Ahmadi to a suspension. Will we have another sleeping pill at the Stadium of Light?
Villa have similar problems having scored one more goal than Sunderland, but they have played one game more in the league. Villa, at least, found the net against Swindon in the cup, scoring three goals. J Bennett will be back from his suspension for this game, but they lose their midfielder El Ahmadi to a suspension. Will we have another sleeping pill at the Stadium of Light?
Swansea - Chelsea 5.01 - 1.80
This Swansea side holds their own against any side, at least in Wales, and I smell difficulties for Chelsea. It is about efficiency in the final third for Swansea. Passing the ball, getting in good positions, that is usually no problems for Swansea, but they lack a real number nine, if you know what I mean. Their great keeper Vorm is sidelined at the moment. Chico, defender, will be assessed ahead of this game.
Both Ivanovic and Torres will be back for Chelsea, but they will miss J Terry and F Lampard again this week. Ashley Cole is also in danger of missing this game. Chelsea had to use quite a few regulars against Man United in the cup (5-4 win) and this game may prove more than awkward or Chelsea. Their squad is a bit stretched at the moment and they will play the all important match against Shaktar in just a few days. The odds on the away win are way too short, unbackable in my opinion.
Both Ivanovic and Torres will be back for Chelsea, but they will miss J Terry and F Lampard again this week. Ashley Cole is also in danger of missing this game. Chelsea had to use quite a few regulars against Man United in the cup (5-4 win) and this game may prove more than awkward or Chelsea. Their squad is a bit stretched at the moment and they will play the all important match against Shaktar in just a few days. The odds on the away win are way too short, unbackable in my opinion.
Tottenham - Wigan 1.51 - 7.50
Typical Tottenham against Southampton. Quite superior in the first half they lost their ways in the second half and could barely hold on to their 2-1 lead. What about playing with passion for the whole of 90 minutes! They were also cruising against Norwich in the cup, but conceded two late goals, missed a penalty and ended up losing the match. That is Tottenham this season, strong in patches, but too unstable. Dembele will not be fit to play, but maybe Adebayor will.
Wigan played a good game at home to West Ham absolutely deserving their three points. A committed Tottenham side will win this game, but should they offer a half hearted display there is every risk that they will be punished. You do what you like with this 1.51 on the home win, but it’s not for me.
Wigan played a good game at home to West Ham absolutely deserving their three points. A committed Tottenham side will win this game, but should they offer a half hearted display there is every risk that they will be punished. You do what you like with this 1.51 on the home win, but it’s not for me.
W B A - Southampton 1.75 - 5.06
I talk about luck every now and then, but do not take it too literally. WBA deserved more from their visit to St James last week and they probably also deserved something from their home game against Man City the week before. So it has not been going the WBA way lately, although they have played some decent football. This they have done from day one this season.
Southampton as expected fielded reserves against Leeds in the cup and we will see a well rested and well prepared Saints squad for this match. Home win, I guess.
Southampton as expected fielded reserves against Leeds in the cup and we will see a well rested and well prepared Saints squad for this match. Home win, I guess.
West Ham - Manchester City 5.25 - 1.74
There are almost always two versions after a match and the West Ham coach had the opinion that his side under performed against Wigan and that is why his side lost the match. You know the coaches, one is more one sided than the other, but the Leeds coach Warnock can never be beaten. West Ham have so far looked good in their home fixtures and this I state although they went down to Arsenal 1-3.
Man City hope to include Javi Garcia for this game, but definitely out is the injured M Richards. Fit again Zabaleta will cover for Richards. D Silva? Not ready, or I have not heard anything else. I do not know what to think really, but I cannot accept this 1.74 on the away win.
Man City hope to include Javi Garcia for this game, but definitely out is the injured M Richards. Fit again Zabaleta will cover for Richards. D Silva? Not ready, or I have not heard anything else. I do not know what to think really, but I cannot accept this 1.74 on the away win.
Bolton - Cardiff 2.38 - 3.15
I will back Bolton against the league leaders. It will be the first game for the new Bolton manager D Freedman and I suggest he will make an instant impact. Bolton have one of the strongest side in this division, but so far they have not lived up to expectations, far from that. OK, they have been relatively strong in their home games (3-2-1 this far).
Lee is back playing for Bolton and he scored their goal against Middlesbrough last week.
Cardiff are topping the table thanks to their 100% home record. Away from home they are more human with 2-1-3 this far. S McPhail is fit again and he should be in contention for this match. C Bellamy is always touch and go. You never really know if he will play or not.
I expect a great game from Freedman’s Bolton and I will back the home win.
Lee is back playing for Bolton and he scored their goal against Middlesbrough last week.
Cardiff are topping the table thanks to their 100% home record. Away from home they are more human with 2-1-3 this far. S McPhail is fit again and he should be in contention for this match. C Bellamy is always touch and go. You never really know if he will play or not.
I expect a great game from Freedman’s Bolton and I will back the home win.
Brighton - Leeds 2.05 - 4.02
Tonight Leeds will play again and I think they will suffer at Brighton.
Plenty of action lately for Leeds. After two disappointing home games in the league they expectedly defeated the Southampton reserves in midweek. Leeds basically fielded their first strings again and the way I see it the Leeds squad has been a bit overworked these last two weeks. Not many options either for coach Warnock and he has to go around with the same group of players. Becchio will start tomorrow and P Kenny will stand between the sticks.
Brighton are winless in six games and their previously hot striker Mackail-Smith, recently back from injury, has yet to find his early season scoring form. Brighton picked up a valuable, morale boosting point away to Blackpool last week and I predict that they will start winning matches again, starting with this one. Brighton are a quality side. Backing Brighton.
Plenty of action lately for Leeds. After two disappointing home games in the league they expectedly defeated the Southampton reserves in midweek. Leeds basically fielded their first strings again and the way I see it the Leeds squad has been a bit overworked these last two weeks. Not many options either for coach Warnock and he has to go around with the same group of players. Becchio will start tomorrow and P Kenny will stand between the sticks.
Brighton are winless in six games and their previously hot striker Mackail-Smith, recently back from injury, has yet to find his early season scoring form. Brighton picked up a valuable, morale boosting point away to Blackpool last week and I predict that they will start winning matches again, starting with this one. Brighton are a quality side. Backing Brighton.
Bologna - Udinese 2.50 - 3.23
It is getting tough for Bologna. Pogba’s last minute goal for Juventus in midweek resulted in their fourth loss on the bounce. Three of those losses have been by the odd goal and Bologna are rarely outplayed in their matches.
Important Diamanti will return for this game and their midfielder Perez will also be back.
Di Natale scored twice for his Udinese at home to Catania once again saving his side (2-2). It looks like Di Natale will miss this match. He will have a late fitness test. Defence man Danilo will sit out a suspension. I am prepared to back a highly motivated home side in this game.
Important Diamanti will return for this game and their midfielder Perez will also be back.
Di Natale scored twice for his Udinese at home to Catania once again saving his side (2-2). It looks like Di Natale will miss this match. He will have a late fitness test. Defence man Danilo will sit out a suspension. I am prepared to back a highly motivated home side in this game.
Catania - Lazio 2.63 - 3.20
My choice will be the home win. Both Marchese and Legrottaglie will be back for the home side. Barrientos will most likely be back to play in their front line.
Lazio will have important Hernanes available again, Ledesma as well, but they lose their front man Klose to a suspension. Marchetti, their first choice keeper, remains sidelined. Maybe T Rocchi will start upfront. It is almost always a natural choice for this writer backing Catania in their home games. So be it.
Lazio will have important Hernanes available again, Ledesma as well, but they lose their front man Klose to a suspension. Marchetti, their first choice keeper, remains sidelined. Maybe T Rocchi will start upfront. It is almost always a natural choice for this writer backing Catania in their home games. So be it.
Fiorentina - Cagliari 1.65 - 7.24
Four straight wins for Cagliari. When did this happen before? OK, they have not played against any of the top sides, but it is still a fantastic achievement and I guess their new coach will be declared a saint any of these days.
Conti and Nainggolan will be suspended for Cagliari and A Ekdal will probably start again. Both Cossu and Pinilla are playing again, but Nene and Sau did a great job in midweek and there is healthy competition in their offensive line at the moment.
Aquilani made his come back last night, coming on as a second half substitute, when Fiorentina won their first away game of the season, 1-0 vs. Genoa. At home Fiorentina are 4-1-0 and they are motivated favourites in this match, but they have become too big favourites.
Conti and Nainggolan will be suspended for Cagliari and A Ekdal will probably start again. Both Cossu and Pinilla are playing again, but Nene and Sau did a great job in midweek and there is healthy competition in their offensive line at the moment.
Aquilani made his come back last night, coming on as a second half substitute, when Fiorentina won their first away game of the season, 1-0 vs. Genoa. At home Fiorentina are 4-1-0 and they are motivated favourites in this match, but they have become too big favourites.
Juventus - Inter 1.73 - 5.55
The bookmakers obviously want us to back Inter in this match. I mean, backing Juventus as 1.73 favourites in this top of the table clash is close to impossible. It is not like Inter are in poor form, no, they have won their last seven league games.
I have to say something about the new Juventus star Pogba. He is reminding of Balotelli, but I assure you, Pogba is already better than him. Pogba was man of the match in mid week.
Chiellini, Lichtsteiner, Asamoah, Vidal and Vucinic will all be back for this match. None of these Juventus profiles played against Bologna.
Juan Jesus will be available again for Inter. Cambiasso from the start this time, I guess.
Inter have won all their away games this far and if I choose to be involved in this match I will back the outsider. It is only about the odds, you know.
I have to say something about the new Juventus star Pogba. He is reminding of Balotelli, but I assure you, Pogba is already better than him. Pogba was man of the match in mid week.
Chiellini, Lichtsteiner, Asamoah, Vidal and Vucinic will all be back for this match. None of these Juventus profiles played against Bologna.
Juan Jesus will be available again for Inter. Cambiasso from the start this time, I guess.
Inter have won all their away games this far and if I choose to be involved in this match I will back the outsider. It is only about the odds, you know.
Milan - Chievo 1.50 - 8.20
Down 0-2 away to Palermo the Milan coach went for broke and it paid off. A very offensive Milan side managed to draw the match and there for once was a positive feeling in the Milan camp after the game. For this match Milan have to manage without their suspended defender Bonera. Milan will have a very offensive line up tomorrow.
Chievo won their all important home game against Pescara 2-0. They did not have an easy ride, but with Pescara down to ten men in the second half, the Chievo goals had to come. Their injury list remains the same. Di Michele could be involved tomorrow. Chievo are 0-0-4 in their away games and this looks like loss number five. Home winner.
Chievo won their all important home game against Pescara 2-0. They did not have an easy ride, but with Pescara down to ten men in the second half, the Chievo goals had to come. Their injury list remains the same. Di Michele could be involved tomorrow. Chievo are 0-0-4 in their away games and this looks like loss number five. Home winner.
Napoli - Torino 1.56 - 7.50
Saying that Napoli are Cavani dependant is certainly not saying too much.
He will probably be missing again.
Drawing rather deservedly with Lazio meant that Torino remain unbeaten on their travels (1-4-0). Obviously they play some clever football away from home, hard to break down, not necessarily the most entertaining stuff. They will be able to call on Sansone again and Ogbonna could also be ready for this fixture.
No bet on the Napoli win as long as Cavani is missing.
He will probably be missing again.
Drawing rather deservedly with Lazio meant that Torino remain unbeaten on their travels (1-4-0). Obviously they play some clever football away from home, hard to break down, not necessarily the most entertaining stuff. They will be able to call on Sansone again and Ogbonna could also be ready for this fixture.
No bet on the Napoli win as long as Cavani is missing.
Pescara - Parma 3.38 - 2.40
Backing the away win. The Pescara coach is hanging on the ropes, but what about their players? What to do with a very limited squad? Defence man Romagnoli and Colucci will be suspended for the home side and still no Terlizzi. Last chance saloon for the Pescara coach this weekend.
Parma will be without their suspended striker Belfodil, who scored one of their goals against Roma. Hopefully Amauri will be fit to play, but this I doubt. We may see Pabon and Biabiany in the Parma front line. Not ideal, I have to say, but I will go opposing Pescara.
Parma will be without their suspended striker Belfodil, who scored one of their goals against Roma. Hopefully Amauri will be fit to play, but this I doubt. We may see Pabon and Biabiany in the Parma front line. Not ideal, I have to say, but I will go opposing Pescara.
Roma - Palermo 1.57 - 6.48
Too bad that I did not follow my own suggestion. Roma went down 2-3 away to Parma, but I completely forgot about it. I was happy to see Parma winning the match. Balzaretti, the Roma defender, former Palermo man, is expected back for this game and also Taddei will be available again. Tachtsidis will return from his suspension. Their keeper Stekelenburg risks missing this game.
Who wants this 1.57 on the home win? There is every chance that Palermo’s only dangerous weapon, Miccoli will score a brace in this game. Who will stop him? Forget about the Roma defenders, because they are nowhere to be found.
No Donati for Palermo. As I said earlier this week Roma have to score three goals to win any match these days. Another 3-2 home win.
Who wants this 1.57 on the home win? There is every chance that Palermo’s only dangerous weapon, Miccoli will score a brace in this game. Who will stop him? Forget about the Roma defenders, because they are nowhere to be found.
No Donati for Palermo. As I said earlier this week Roma have to score three goals to win any match these days. Another 3-2 home win.
Sampdoria - Atalanta 2.35 - 3.62
As long as Sampdoria had eleven players on the pitch they matched Inter on a rainy evening and the Costa dismissal proved costly. Anyway Sampdoria made a good impression on this writer and it is difficult to understand that they have lost their last five games. No Costa tomorrow, no Munari, and both Obiang and Maresca are serious injury doubts again. I should think that Maxi Lopez will play from the start upfront this time.
The Atalanta keeper Consigli was man of the match when his side win 1-0 at home to Napoli. Both Cigarini and Peluso will return for this game, but Cazzola will sit out a suspension. Raimondi will replace Bellini as right back. I would have hoped for a fitter home squad, but my vote still goes to the home win alternative.
The Atalanta keeper Consigli was man of the match when his side win 1-0 at home to Napoli. Both Cigarini and Peluso will return for this game, but Cazzola will sit out a suspension. Raimondi will replace Bellini as right back. I would have hoped for a fitter home squad, but my vote still goes to the home win alternative.
Siena - Genoa 2.26 - 3.70
Important game for Siena in midweek, away to Cagliari, but it did not show. They were 0-3 down after half an hour. Bogdani started instead of Ze Eduardo. Why I do not know. Both their defenders Neto and Felipe will be suspended for this game. The Siena president has called a meeting. Something has to be done to stop the rot and he is right of course.
Genoa are toothless at the moment. They did not create much at home to Fiorentina (0-1 loss). Nothing wrong with their attitude, but like Siena they lack quality players. Jankovic was not fit to play against Fiorentina and I doubt that he will be ready for this fixture. Still no Borriello and Rossi. Two big time strugglers but I do not think that the home side will be on the losing side.
Genoa are toothless at the moment. They did not create much at home to Fiorentina (0-1 loss). Nothing wrong with their attitude, but like Siena they lack quality players. Jankovic was not fit to play against Fiorentina and I doubt that he will be ready for this fixture. Still no Borriello and Rossi. Two big time strugglers but I do not think that the home side will be on the losing side.
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Giaccherini says Juventus are the best team in Italy
Juve remained unbeaten in Serie A throughout the 2011/12 campaign, and they have yet to lose a league game this term too, much to the delight of Giaccherini.
"We're the team that plays the best football in Italy and it's also a winning formula," Giaccherini was told the Juventus website.
"We've won nine and drawn one out of 10 Serie A games. It's a great run and I really enjoy playing here."
Ligue 1:PSG look to build on lead
Carlo Ancelotti's PSG opened up a three-point gap at the top of the table last week courtesy of a 1-0 win away to Nancy.
PSG's chief rivals Marseille and Lyon lost ground after their match at the Stade Velodrome was postponed due to bad weather.
Serie A Betting Prediction 1/11/12
Genoa - Fiorentina 3.46 - 2.40
Fiorentina, winless away from home, as the favourites? It does not look right. Pizarro will be back in the Fiorentina midfield for this game and Roncaglia will also return.
Genoa are still missing among others Borriello and Rossi, but defender Canini will be back for this match and Jankovic should be fit to play.
Delneri suffered a defeat in his first game as the Genoa coach and his offensive options are a bit limited with Borriello out of action. Immobile possibly backed up by Jorquera in their front line.
Fiorentina have not been too enterprising in their away games this far and in my mind there are three possible results on Thursday. 0-0, 0-1 or 1-1.
Genoa are still missing among others Borriello and Rossi, but defender Canini will be back for this match and Jankovic should be fit to play.
Delneri suffered a defeat in his first game as the Genoa coach and his offensive options are a bit limited with Borriello out of action. Immobile possibly backed up by Jorquera in their front line.
Fiorentina have not been too enterprising in their away games this far and in my mind there are three possible results on Thursday. 0-0, 0-1 or 1-1.
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Serie A Prediction
Palermo - Milan 3.15 - 2.50
Two straight 0-0 draws for Palermo. I watched their game away to Siena at the weekend and it was an utterly boring affair, but saying that I must add that Palermo were clearly the better side. Says a lot about Siena, does it not? Miccoli should have scored for Palermo, but it was not to be. Bertolo and Munoz are slight injury doubts, but they will probably be OK.
Milan defeated a weakened Genoa side 1-0, with their winning goal arrived late in the game. Milan deserved the three points and El Sharaawy scored their goal. Abbiati could be back in the Milan goal, Muntari is recalled to their squad, but Boateng and Antonini will be missing this time. These days Milan are playing with a three man defence. Pato or Pazzini upfront. I prefer the away win alternative.
Milan defeated a weakened Genoa side 1-0, with their winning goal arrived late in the game. Milan deserved the three points and El Sharaawy scored their goal. Abbiati could be back in the Milan goal, Muntari is recalled to their squad, but Boateng and Antonini will be missing this time. These days Milan are playing with a three man defence. Pato or Pazzini upfront. I prefer the away win alternative.
Friday, October 26, 2012
Maxwell: Barca was a ´'masterclass´'
Paris Saint-Germain defender Maxwell has fond memories of his spell at Barcelona, and feels he learned plenty at Camp Nou.
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