Wednesday, 30 November 2016
Monday, 28 November 2016
INJURY UPDATES
>> Gareth Bale out with ankle injury for up to 3 months: The Welsh star limped out of their Champions League clash in midweek with Sporting Lisbon. He faces an extended period on the side lines, although he is optimistic of making a speedy recovery.
>> Balotelli set to miss 3 games for Nice: Mario Balotelli has been rejuvenated since his move to Nice in France but they will have to make do without him in their 3 next matches after Balotelli sustained injury in shooting Practice.
>> John Terry out for 2-3 weeks: He suffered a muscle injury and this is the latest setback in an injury ravaged season thus far.
>> Coutinho suffers ankle ligament damage: The Liverpool star man is facing a lengthy spell out injured. He is set to miss about 6 weeks. This comes as a huge blow to Liverpool as he has been their best performer and one of the best players in England so far this season.
>> Daniel Alves suffers broken leg: The Juventus Right back suffered an injury in their shock 3-1 loss to Genoa. Alves is expected to be out for the duration of about 3 months.
>> Bonucci out for 2 months with thigh problem : Juventus have gone into full blown injury crisis mode. Bonucci adds to the growing list of absentees for Juventus. They now have to make do without arguably their best Center Back.
>> Jordi Alba out of El clasico: The diminutive Left Back sustained bruising to his right knee and distention to his left ankle in the match against Real Sociedad
TRANSFER NEWS
>> Jose Mourinho wants willian reunion: Willian has been on the fringes of 1st team football since Conte took over at Stamford Bridge. Mourinho could definitely do with Willian's pace at Manchester United.
>> Barcelona monitoring Ivanovic situation: It is no secret that Barcelona are in the market for a Right Back to plug the gap created by the departure of Daniel Alves. Barcelona have been operating with 1 Right Back all season (Sergi Roberto), with Aleix Vidal failing to impress and hence frozen out. Ivanovic represents a viable option, a veteran, relatively cheap and not cup tied (due to Chelsea's absense in Europe).
>> Barcelona scouts Victor Moses: The Nigerian's good performances for Chelsea this season as a Right Wing Back has not gone unnoticed. He is yet another name added to the ever growing list of potential Right Back options for Barcelona.
>> Manchester City eye Virgil Van Dijk: The Southampton Netherlands international has reportedly caught the eye of Pep Guardiola. Pep views him as a long term replacement for the injury prone Vincent Kompany. Arsenal amd Manchester United are also rumoured to be monitoring.
>> Fenerbahce keeping tabs on Ben Arfa: The Turkish club are reported to be monitoring Hatem Ben Arfa's situation at PSG. Th French winger has seen little game time under Unai Emery and as a result he could soon be on the move yet again.
>>
Sunday, 27 November 2016
Friday, 25 November 2016
UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE RECAP
Europe's top tier competition provided us with scintillating clashes this past midweek. The Champions League group stage never ceases to produce enthralling encounters and a bit of shock every now and then. As the group stage draws to a close, we have a clearer picture of the standings as some teams have confirmed their progress to the next round, some drop to the lower competition (Europa League), a few others have already been eliminated entirely.
CSKA Moscow and Bayer Leverkusen played out a 1-1 draw, a result which was good enough for Leverkusen to progress to the knockout stage. Kevin Volland gave the Germans the lead, Bibras Natcho converted from 12 yards to draw the game level. Leverkusen are through to the next round as runners-up due to Tottenham's loss at Monaco later in the day.
The Monaco Tottenham match eneded in disappointment for spurs, losing 2-1 and subsequently eliminated from the Champions League. It was yet another lackluster display from Tottenham, deservedly beaten by Monaco on the night. Sidibe headed Monaco in front, Kane equalized, Lemar had the final say with an emphatic finish. Tottenham's capitulation in the group stage can be attributed to several factors such as Mauricio Pochettino's bewildering decision to rest players, decision to play home games at Wembley or simply maybe they were not good enough when it mattered most.
Leicester city are through to the next round as group winners after defeating Club Brugge 2-1 at the King power stadium. Okazaki opened the scoring, Mahrez doubled Leicester's lead from the spot before Izquierdo pulled one back for the visitors to ensure a tense finale to the game. The fairy-tale continues for Leicester.
Ronaldo returned to his old stomping ground in the Sporting Lisbon vs Real Madrid clash. Raphael Varane had earlier given Madrid the lead before Adrien Silva drew Sporting level by converting from the spot. Benzema had the final say, expertly heading in from a Ramos cross 5 minutes from time. Sporting did a good job of keeping Ronaldo fairly quiet on the night. With the result, battle for top spot is still up for grabs between Madrid and Dortmund.
It was an intense encounter at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan stadium between Sevilla and Juventus. Juventus triumphed 3-1 but it was not all smooth sailing. Sevilla took the lead through Nico Pareja and Sampaoli's men where on top in the early exchange thanks to their intensity. Then things turned sour as Franco Vazquez picked up 2 yellow cards to earn his matching orders. Bonucci equalized from the spot on the stroke of half time. In the 2nd period, Juve pressed on and eventually won it late on through strikes from Bonucci and Mandzukic.
The most thrilling encounter of match day 5 played out at the Signal Iduna Park in the match between Borussia Dortmund and Legia Warzsawa. A scarcely believable scoreline of 8-4 ensued. The match was definitely fun for the neutrals but not one Tuchel would have been too pleased with. Conceding 4 goals is never a good thing, the defence would have to tighten up if Dortmund are to make it into the deep end of the competition. Records were shattered left right and center such as Most goals scored in a single Champions League match, first time an away team scored 4 goals and still lost, quickest double in Champions League history by Kagawa etc. This was as open and end to end as a football match can be.
The Besiktas and Benfica clash was definitely not low on entertainment. Besiktas found themselves 3-0 down after just 31 minutes. Few could have foreseen what came next. Reminiscent of the great clash at Istanbul between Ac Milan and Liverpool, a great turn around was in store. A resurgent Besiktas emerged for the 2nd period and successfully turned it around and they did it in quite some style. Tosun started the comeback with an acrobatic volley, Queresma converted a spotkick and produced a rabona cross for Aboubakar to net the 3rd and equalizing goal a minute from time. 3-3 it ended.
Rostov provided us with the biggest shock of the round. The Russians edging a five goal thriller. Douglas Costa opened the scoring for Bayern, his loose ball led to Azmoun leveling for Rostov, Poloz turned the game on it head by converting a penalty kick, Bernat responded for the Bavarians but it would be Noboa that would ultimately have the final say. Winning it in style by curling a spectacular freekick. As a result, Bayern will finish in 2nd place, behind Atletico Madrid. Back to the drawing board for Ancelotti and Bayern.
Arsenal and Psg's match ended in a 2-2 draw. Cavani deservedly opened the scoring for Psg, Giroud drew Arsenal level from the spot just before the half time break. An own goal from Marco Verratti put Arsenal infront. Lucas struck the bar with a wonderful freekick, he eventually leveled matters for Psg via a deflection from Iwobi. Cavani spurned 2 glorious opportunities to seal victory. Consequently Psg top the pool due to a superior head to head. A point was the least Psg deserved, clearly superior to the Gunners on the night.
Atletico Madrid seal top spot with a 2-0 victory over Psv. They are the only team with a 100% record in the champions league this season.Kevin Gameiro produced an emphatic finish, and Griezmann doubled the lead to give Atletico Madrid a deserved win and a moral booster after the defeat in the derby to Real Madrid.
Manchester city were held at Borussia Monchengladbach. Pep Guardiola tinkered with his tactics, deploying an interesting looking 3-2-4-1 formation. Nevertheless it did not have the desired effect with Monchengladbach taking the lead through Raffael. David Silva slid home for the equaliser. This result sees Manchester City through to the next round but as runners up behind Barcelona.
Messi at the double, as Barcelona see off Celtic 2-0. The Argentine international made his comeback from illness and immediately made his presence felt with his 8th and 9th goal in the group stage. He opened the scoring with a volley courtesy of Neymar's perfectly weighted lobbed pass. In the 2nd period he put the game to bed, converting a penalty kick won by Suarez. As a result, Barcelona advance as group winners.
Thursday, 24 November 2016
Tuesday, 22 November 2016
Monday, 21 November 2016
TRANSFER NEWS
>> Bernardeschi to Chelsea? The Fiorentina winger is on the wishlist of Antonio Conte. Reports claim he is willing to force through the move by handing in a transfer request. The 22 year old will definitely bolster Chelsea's option on the wings.
>> Tottenham weighing up move for Sandro: Spurs consider January bid for Malaga's Sandro. The Ex-Barcelona man is viewed as a quality backup for Harry Kane.
>> Psg, Juventus, Manchester United and Chelsea all vying for Thiago Maia: The highly rated Santos Midfielder is on the radar of several European giants after a string of impressive performances in his homeland and at the Olympic games where Brazil won gold.
SIMPLY EXHILARATING WEEKEND OF SOCCER ACROSS THE GLOBE!!
One of those weekends when everything seemed to fall in place. In the world of football over the last few days has been high-octane non-stop action.
From the direct style of play of the English Premier League to the defensive tactical rigours of the Italian Seria A, to the aesthetic intricate play and control of the Spanish La Liga, there simply was something for every football enthusiast whatever tickles your fancy. To spice it all up, it kept coming to us at breathtaking pace.
We had the ever titanic Manchester United vs Arsenal clash, Mourinho vs Wenger showdown, the biggest shocker of the day from the Crystal Palace vs Manchester City game, the frustration of the Reds at St Mary's, goal-laden affair at White Heart Lane, the shock at the Camp Nou, the Madrid derby with Ronaldo obliterating the Rojiblancos, Der Klassiker in Germany, the continued rise of the underdogs: Leipzig in Germany and Nice in France, Chelsea's rise to the summit, Derby di Milano in Italy etc. Weekends do not get much better than this in footballing sense.
The weekend kicked off in quite stunning fashion with the clash between Mourinho and Wenger. The match lineup brought with it an interesting surprise. Carl Jenkinson started at Right Back for the Gunners (due to Bellerin's injury absence), his first start in about 2 years now, Wayne Rooney was dropped even in the absence of the suspended Zlatan Ibrahimovic. The match ended in a stalemate. The jinx Mourinho has on Wenger does not seem likely to end anytime soon but this time it was Wenger who would be thanking his stars, emerging from the clash with a barely deserved draw. He had Giroud the super sub to thank for that. As always we had the ever eccentric Mourinho to let it sink in with his post match remark of Arsene Wenger finally winning him after the draw because it felt more like a defeat. Well Mourinho is still undefeated against Arsene Wenger in 12 meetings between the two in English Premier League, 8 defeats for Wenger, the jinx continues!!
Then came the greatest shock wave of the weekend, Yaya Toure started a game under Pep Guardiola. The frenzy across the globe on social media was almost akin to the stock market skyrocketing. It was truly very pleasing and yet totally shocking to see Yaya Toure on the field in Manchester City colours. He apologized for comments made by his agent and that seemed to have done the trick. Toure did not miss a beat on his comeback and true to the scripts, he was decisive, 2 match winning goals, 3 points in the bag, well and truly Yaya Toure is back. Well then Vincent Kompany had to go off injured for the umpteenth time.
Liverpool failed to push clear at the summit, playing out a goaless draw with Southampton, and Leicester city continue to struggle after their surprise title win last season, they lost on the road to Watford.
Over to Spain where Barcelona squared off to Malaga. Messi had to be replaced just before kickoff, the club cited illness (stomach bug) as the reason for the absence. Suarez had accumulated his share of the cards and was suspended for the clash. Suddenly the Malaga match looked a lot trickier than they had envisaged. Paco Alcacer, Luis Suarez replacement on the day, looked totally lost and bereft of any form of confidence, he did not even record a touch of the ball between the 10th and 41st minute of the 1st half, it does not get worse than that. In the end, a goaless draw ensued, disallowed goals, penalty claims, and Carlos Kameni heroics all meant Barcelona recorded a blank at Camp Nou for the first time since February 2015, the man responsible back then Carlos Kameni yet again. He always comes with his A game to the Camp Nou.
Up next, Germany's Der Klassiker. It does not get much bigger than Borrussia Dortmund vs Bayern Munich in the German top flight. This particular episode was settled by a Pierre Emerick Aubameyang strike. Sweeping move from Dortmund led to Gotze feeding it into the area for Aubameyang and he duly slid in to score. Bayern tried to claw their way back into the contest but it was not to be. End to end thrilling encounter and as a result of Dortmund's victory, the title race has been blown open in Germany.
Back in England, Tottenham vs Westham served up lots of goals and a new hero to the White Heart Lane faithful, his name Harry Winks. It was his first Premier League start and one he will always remember, scoring on his debut start. Harry Kane still emerged with the headlines though as his double ensured Tottenham battled hard and emerged with maximum points from the clash.
The biggest clash of the day: The Madrid Derby, derby matches do not come much bigger than this in Europe. It had the usual intensity, aggressiveness, quality and poise on display, but one man was out to make a statement, Cristiano Ronaldo. Prior to the clash, a lot had been said about Real Madrid's less than desirable results in La Liga clashes against their neighbour. Also Ronaldo's recent stats (2 goals in his last 11 matches) against Atletico came to the fore. In the end only one man had his name on the Newspaper front pages, Cristiano Ronaldo. He totally dominated the game with a Hattrick (freeekick, penalty, far post finish off a Gareth Bale run). It was the total performance from all Real Madrid players not lacking one bit in intensity. As a result, Madrid pull away at the top of the standings, 4 points clear of Barcelona, and 9 points clear of Atletico. Atletico Madrid have some catching up to do now.
Chelsea back to the summit of English top flight courtesy of Diego Costa. Costa reacted quickest to a loose ball in the area after a corner kick putting Chelsea in front, Valdes was in top form against the Blues, repelling attack after attack but was powerless to Costas finish. As a result, Costa is the most prolific player in EPL, involved in the most goals+assists so far this season.
To crown the weekend was the Milan Derby, AC Milan vs Inter Milan might not be the force it used to be due to the dearth of quality in the league but they still served up a scintillating match for the football community. Suso grabbed a double, Perisic equalised right at the end, the spoils were shared and the Milan Derby lived up to its billing. Suso had promised to walk back home if he scored a double in the Derby, he did just that but luckily for him we wont hold him by his words. It would have been quite a journey for him.
It has been a captivating weekend of football across the globe, entertainment emanating from Leagues world wide, records shattered, shock waves sent, goals galore, gripping and spell binding all round action.....MORE OF THE SAME PLEASE!!!
Sunday, 20 November 2016
Saturday, 19 November 2016
TRANSFER NEWS
>> Liverpool keeping an eye on Herrera: Porto's Mexico International has reportedly caught the eye of Liverpool. He is regarded as one of the best box to box midfielders. Due to a supposed falling out of favour with Porto, the Reds are looking to land him at a cut price deal next summer.
>> Both Milan giants keen on Sakho: Mamdou Sakho is set to exit Liverpool by January. Jurgen Klopp has frozen him out of first team action due to his off-field issue. Both Ac Milan an Inter Milan have been credited with interest.
>> Inter Milan turn their attention to Angel Di-Maria: Having been previously rebuffed by James Rodriguez, Inter Milan are seeking alternatives and Angel Di Maria tops the wishlist. One thing is certain, Inter are on the look out for a mega signing.
>> Manchester city keeping tabs on Grimaldo: Benfica's Spain u-21 international Alex Grimaldo has reportedly caught the eye of Pep Guardiola. The former Barca youth team player fits the mould of a Pep full back but City might be put off by his hefty price tag.
>> Kondogbia on Chelsea radar: With Inter Milan in turmoil and no guaranteed spot in the starting lineup, Geoffrey Kondogbia could be on the move with the right type of offer on the table.
>> Calhanoglu close to agreeing move to Chelsea: According to reports emanating from Turkey, the Bayer Leverkusen Turkish International, Hakan Calhanoglu is close to agreeing a move to Chelsea. He has been touted as a potential replacement for Oscar.
Friday, 18 November 2016
NEYMAR: A MODERN-DAY FOOTBALLING GREAT?
NEYMAR: A MODERN-DAY FOOTBALLING GREAT?
By Jude Ogbonna
In the wake of Neymar scoring his 50th International goal for Brazil, Soccer In-depth's Ifeanyi Onyejegbu is of the opinion that Neymar has now become a footballing great. Outlined below are arguments against this notion, explaining why it is both hasty and inaccurate.
The title of this article presents an ambiguity in that the term 'modern' is a relative one. While this ambiguity might have posed a problem for other topics of discussion, it will not do so in this case. This is because no matter the period in time that one chooses to take into consideration, Neymar is not a footballing great. Due to the opinion of this writer that comparing players playing in different positions on the field is a futile exercise, only offensive players will be mentioned whenever the need to do so arises for purpose of analyses.
To qualify as a great from a footballing point of view, one must have achieved great feats, and must have done so for a substantial amount of time. Neymar has not yet managed to do both. Neymar began his professional career at Santos, one of the most prominent football clubs in Brazil, whose rich history has had a tremendous relevance in world football. Domestic football in Brazil however has significantly weakened since the late 1980's, when the country's best players began to ply their trade in Europe. Whereas in the past, players like Garrincha, Pele, Didi, Socrates, Zico built their careers and attained legendary status on home soil, the league is now in part a feeder of young talented players to Europe, and on the other hand a home to players who could either not cut it in Europe, or who are spending the twilight of their careers there, after spells in Europe or elsewhere. Hence, while Neymar was successful at Santos, including winning a Copa Libertadores title and the South American footballer of the year twice, we may not take his time at Santos significantly into account in this debate.
Neymar arrived in Barcelona in the summer of 2013 in his first stint in Europe. It took Neymar time to adjust to the rigours of football in Spain, and it was not until his second season that he found his footing. After a first season that was average at best, he found the back of the net 39 times in all competitions in his second season and ended the year with a third-place finish in the Balon d'Or award (the award lost a lot of its prestige since its partnership with FIFA in 2010--which changed the rules to include national team captains and coaches as part of the voters, a result that introduced a great deal of bias into the voting process--culminating in a decision for the award to part ways with the world governing body this year). Neymar also had a strong third season, helping Barcelona to a league and domestic cup double. A point to note from Neymar's performances at Barcelona is that he plays in an attacking three with two of the best attackers of the decade in Messi and Suarez. The Catalan side's successes are mainly due to the collective brilliance of the trio, and while he looks every bit his part as a member of the trident, he is being outscored by Suarez, while Messi is the undoubted star of the show.
Some of Neymar's most recent compatriots at Barcelona, namely Ronaldo, Ronaldinho and Rivaldo, all made superior impacts during their times at the club, and nearly singlehandedly at that. Ronaldo immediately took the entire league by storm on arrival, and set a club record in his first and only season at the club for most goals scored in a single season, a record which stood for 14 years until it was eventually broken by Messi. Ronaldinho meanwhile inspired a team that had not won a single tittle for 6 years to back to back league titles and a Champions league glory. Rivaldo did not only settle for a spot on the podium, but also went on to win the Balon d'Or--as did Ronaldo and Ronaldinho during his time at the club, when the award had not lost its prestige, and was also a lot more competitive than it has been in recent years, as he beat out players like Zidane and Ronaldo to the gong. Kaka another Brazilian great in recent memory, was one of the finest midfielders in the world throughout the best part of the 2000s, his peak arriving in 2007 when his virtuoso displays that led to AC Milan winning that years Champions League title remains arguably the greatest individual performance in the competitions history. He also won the Balon d'Or award that year.
Proponents of the notion that Neymar is a modern-day great often point to his record with the national team to drive home their point. Neymar recently scored his 50th goal for the national team, and while that is a remarkable achievement for a 24 year old, looking beyond the numbers tells a different story. A majority of his goals for Brazil came in non-competitive fixtures, and he has only managed 11 strikes in competitive games, about a fifth of his goal total. Neymar hopefully still has a lot of games left to play to score more competitive goals, but this further buttresses the fact that the argument of him being a great is still very much a premature one. Another argument in favour of Neymar is the fact that he led Brazil to her maiden Olympics victory in the men's football event this summer. One needs to understand that this feat is great only in the context of Brazil having never won the title previously, and nothing more. The Olympic event is afterall, an age-grade competition and not a priority for many countries. Germany, who was Brazil's opponents in the final, did not even go to the tournament with her best eligible players, as players within the required age limit such as Julian Draxler, Joshua Kimmich, and Leroy Sane all played for the senior side at the European Championships. The Olympic event lacks the competitiveness and the significance of the senior-level international tournaments. Brazil is regarded as a powerhouse in football by virtue of the five World Cup titles that she won, and the Olympic victory in the summer did not change that status.
The tendency to hype Neymar is perhaps being brought about due to the dearth in quality of Brazilian players in recent years. For several decades, Brazil continuously churned out numerous offensive players of genuine world class quality such as the players mentioned earlier, Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, Rivaldo and Kaka, who all met the twofold conditions of performing great feats for a substantial period of time. Neymar might be the best among the present crop, but calling him a great for this reason may merely be to make up for the psychological void of being used to having a great Brazilian player in every generation. Greatness is not relative to time, and to lower the standards and regard Neymar as a great would be both patronizing to the player himself, and a great disservice to football in general. Neymar may not be a footballing great at the moment, but he could yet become one some day, and luckily for him, time is still very much on his side.
By Jude Ogbonna
In the wake of Neymar scoring his 50th International goal for Brazil, Soccer In-depth's Ifeanyi Onyejegbu is of the opinion that Neymar has now become a footballing great. Outlined below are arguments against this notion, explaining why it is both hasty and inaccurate.
The title of this article presents an ambiguity in that the term 'modern' is a relative one. While this ambiguity might have posed a problem for other topics of discussion, it will not do so in this case. This is because no matter the period in time that one chooses to take into consideration, Neymar is not a footballing great. Due to the opinion of this writer that comparing players playing in different positions on the field is a futile exercise, only offensive players will be mentioned whenever the need to do so arises for purpose of analyses.
To qualify as a great from a footballing point of view, one must have achieved great feats, and must have done so for a substantial amount of time. Neymar has not yet managed to do both. Neymar began his professional career at Santos, one of the most prominent football clubs in Brazil, whose rich history has had a tremendous relevance in world football. Domestic football in Brazil however has significantly weakened since the late 1980's, when the country's best players began to ply their trade in Europe. Whereas in the past, players like Garrincha, Pele, Didi, Socrates, Zico built their careers and attained legendary status on home soil, the league is now in part a feeder of young talented players to Europe, and on the other hand a home to players who could either not cut it in Europe, or who are spending the twilight of their careers there, after spells in Europe or elsewhere. Hence, while Neymar was successful at Santos, including winning a Copa Libertadores title and the South American footballer of the year twice, we may not take his time at Santos significantly into account in this debate.
Neymar arrived in Barcelona in the summer of 2013 in his first stint in Europe. It took Neymar time to adjust to the rigours of football in Spain, and it was not until his second season that he found his footing. After a first season that was average at best, he found the back of the net 39 times in all competitions in his second season and ended the year with a third-place finish in the Balon d'Or award (the award lost a lot of its prestige since its partnership with FIFA in 2010--which changed the rules to include national team captains and coaches as part of the voters, a result that introduced a great deal of bias into the voting process--culminating in a decision for the award to part ways with the world governing body this year). Neymar also had a strong third season, helping Barcelona to a league and domestic cup double. A point to note from Neymar's performances at Barcelona is that he plays in an attacking three with two of the best attackers of the decade in Messi and Suarez. The Catalan side's successes are mainly due to the collective brilliance of the trio, and while he looks every bit his part as a member of the trident, he is being outscored by Suarez, while Messi is the undoubted star of the show.
Some of Neymar's most recent compatriots at Barcelona, namely Ronaldo, Ronaldinho and Rivaldo, all made superior impacts during their times at the club, and nearly singlehandedly at that. Ronaldo immediately took the entire league by storm on arrival, and set a club record in his first and only season at the club for most goals scored in a single season, a record which stood for 14 years until it was eventually broken by Messi. Ronaldinho meanwhile inspired a team that had not won a single tittle for 6 years to back to back league titles and a Champions league glory. Rivaldo did not only settle for a spot on the podium, but also went on to win the Balon d'Or--as did Ronaldo and Ronaldinho during his time at the club, when the award had not lost its prestige, and was also a lot more competitive than it has been in recent years, as he beat out players like Zidane and Ronaldo to the gong. Kaka another Brazilian great in recent memory, was one of the finest midfielders in the world throughout the best part of the 2000s, his peak arriving in 2007 when his virtuoso displays that led to AC Milan winning that years Champions League title remains arguably the greatest individual performance in the competitions history. He also won the Balon d'Or award that year.
Proponents of the notion that Neymar is a modern-day great often point to his record with the national team to drive home their point. Neymar recently scored his 50th goal for the national team, and while that is a remarkable achievement for a 24 year old, looking beyond the numbers tells a different story. A majority of his goals for Brazil came in non-competitive fixtures, and he has only managed 11 strikes in competitive games, about a fifth of his goal total. Neymar hopefully still has a lot of games left to play to score more competitive goals, but this further buttresses the fact that the argument of him being a great is still very much a premature one. Another argument in favour of Neymar is the fact that he led Brazil to her maiden Olympics victory in the men's football event this summer. One needs to understand that this feat is great only in the context of Brazil having never won the title previously, and nothing more. The Olympic event is afterall, an age-grade competition and not a priority for many countries. Germany, who was Brazil's opponents in the final, did not even go to the tournament with her best eligible players, as players within the required age limit such as Julian Draxler, Joshua Kimmich, and Leroy Sane all played for the senior side at the European Championships. The Olympic event lacks the competitiveness and the significance of the senior-level international tournaments. Brazil is regarded as a powerhouse in football by virtue of the five World Cup titles that she won, and the Olympic victory in the summer did not change that status.
The tendency to hype Neymar is perhaps being brought about due to the dearth in quality of Brazilian players in recent years. For several decades, Brazil continuously churned out numerous offensive players of genuine world class quality such as the players mentioned earlier, Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, Rivaldo and Kaka, who all met the twofold conditions of performing great feats for a substantial period of time. Neymar might be the best among the present crop, but calling him a great for this reason may merely be to make up for the psychological void of being used to having a great Brazilian player in every generation. Greatness is not relative to time, and to lower the standards and regard Neymar as a great would be both patronizing to the player himself, and a great disservice to football in general. Neymar may not be a footballing great at the moment, but he could yet become one some day, and luckily for him, time is still very much on his side.
Wednesday, 16 November 2016
Tuesday, 15 November 2016
INJURY UPDATES
>> Tim Howard out for 4 months: The United States Goalkeeper suffered an injury in the World Cup qualifiers against Mexico. He now has to undergo a surgery for groin injury and that will see him miss four months of action. This will come as a big blow for his side Colorado Rapids and also the United States National team.
>> Alexis Sanchez, Arturo Vidal, Claudio Bravo back from injury: Chile coach Juan Antonio Pizza has confirmed that both Alexis Sanchez and Arturo Vidal are set to lineup for Chile in their World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay on Tuesday. Alexis is said to have recovered speedily from a calf problem sustained in training. For the good of the game, lets hope they are not being rushed back and hopefully nobody suffers a relapse.
>> Per Mertesacker set for return: The German is seemingly ready to make his comeback from a serious knee injury he sustained in pre-season. He provided a positive update on his twitter handle about a successful rehabilitation. He will have a big battle for first team place with Mustafi and Koscielny the preferred options in the center of defense so far this season.
>> Arjen Robben fit for Dortmund clash: The Dutch man suffered muscular problem in Netherlands win over Luxembourg. Bayern Munich have since allayed fear of a serious injury and declared him fit for their massive weekend clash against Borussia Dortmund.
>> Wayne Rooney out injured: The England International is set to miss England's friendly match against Spain after being withdrawn from the squad due to injury, he suffered a knee injury in training.
>> Griezmann in race to be fit for the Madrid derby: Antoine Griezmann picked up an injury while on duty for France against Sweden. Test results from Atletico Madrid do not point to any serious injury but he now has to prove his fitness in the coming days with the clash against Real Madrid looming.
TRANSFER NEWS
>> Juventus look to wrap up Bentancur deal: Juventus have their eyes set on the highly rated 19 year old Boca Juniors Midfielder. The Bianconeri's want to exercise an option in the deal which took Carlos Tevez from Juventus to Boca Juniors. Juventus plan to exercise the clause to sign him for 9.4 million Euros in January and loan him back to Boca Juniors for the rest of the season.
>> Lionel Messi refuses Barcelona new deal? Earlier in the day, Marca (Madrid based newspaper) reported that Messi had chosen not to renew Barcelona contract and would decide his future when his contract expires in 2018, citing his on-going tax issues in Spain as a major reason. Messi's camp have swiftly moved to squash the rumour saying everything is going as planned with regards to contract extension but negotiations are still at an early stage and is expected to carry on until 2017. Currently President Josep Bartomeu is working on new deals for key squad members such as Luis Suarez, Ivan Rakitic and Marc Andre Ter Stegan. Messi's father, Jorge and his Lawyers are expected to fly into Barcelona over Christmas and New Year to conduct negotiations.
NEWS FROM THE AFRICAN CONTINENT
>> South African head coach suspended: The South African Football Association (SAFA) has suspended Shakes Mashaba for disciplinary reasons. As a result of this development, assistant head coach Owen da Gama will take charge of the team against Mozambique in Maputo on Tuesday. Dennis Mumble, the SAFA CEO said Mashaba had to be disciplined after 'unpleasant events'after Saturdays game with Senegal. He refused to divulge further details. Mashaba has been placed on suspension with immediate effect pending a full disciplinary hearing. Coach Mashaba has since sent his sincerest apologies and asked for forgiveness for his indiscretion.
Monday, 14 November 2016
Sunday, 13 November 2016
TRANSFER NEWS
>> Manchester city, Chelsea, Real Madrid and Barcelona all keeping tabs on Donarumma: The milan goalkeeper has been putting up inspired displays, week in week out in Seria A. You know you are something special when you debut for AC Milan and the Italian national team at the tender age of 16 and 17 respectively.
>> The two Milan giants have eyes set on Ricardo Rodriguez: Both AC Milan and Inter Milan are set to do battle for the Wolfsburg Switzerland International. He has been one of the most impressive left backs in the world for years now.
>> Manchester United line up move for Bruma: The Galatasaray winger has been in exciting form this season. The young winger is known for his pace and dribbling. He would be a good addition to help revitalize a sluggish looking Manchester United.
>> Liverpool lining up a move for Jonathan Tah: The Bayer Leverkusen Center Half is very imposing, strong in the tackle and able to play out from the back. Jurgen Klopp will be hoping to shore up the Reds defense with his capture.
>> Juventus keen on Franck Kessie: The young Atalanta Midfielder who has been likened to country man 'Yaya Toure' has lit up Seria A this season with 4 goals from deep. Hence the interest from a plethora of European giants (Juventus, Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal, Napoli)
MATCH BETTING PREVIEW
Hungary vs Andorra >> over 2.5 goals
Sc Olhanense vs Fc Vizela >> 1st Half Vizela win or draw
Portugal vs Latvia >> over 2.5 goals
Fc Cartegena vs Atletico Sanluqueno >> 1DNB
Belgium vs Estonia >> Belgium to score over 2.5 goals
Switzerland vs Faroe Islands >> Switzerland win Handicap 0:1
Luxembourg vs Netherlands >> 2nd Half most scoring
Cardiff Met Uni vs Airbus Uk >> 1DNB
Egypt vs Ghana >> 1st Half Draw
Velez Sarsfield vs Defensa y Justicia >> Draw
Sc Olhanense vs Fc Vizela >> 1st Half Vizela win or draw
Portugal vs Latvia >> over 2.5 goals
Fc Cartegena vs Atletico Sanluqueno >> 1DNB
Belgium vs Estonia >> Belgium to score over 2.5 goals
Switzerland vs Faroe Islands >> Switzerland win Handicap 0:1
Luxembourg vs Netherlands >> 2nd Half most scoring
Cardiff Met Uni vs Airbus Uk >> 1DNB
Egypt vs Ghana >> 1st Half Draw
Velez Sarsfield vs Defensa y Justicia >> Draw
Saturday, 12 November 2016
MATCH PREVIEW: NIGERIA VS ALGERIA
The Super Eagles of Nigeria face a stern test in a crunch world cup qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo. The new head coach of Nigeria, Gernot Rohr has been off to a flier with a 100 percent record in charge but the encounter with the Dessert Warriors of Algeria will test his mettle. Nigeria currently sit top of Group B with 3 points after 1 game, having defeated Zambia in the opener. While Algeria sit on a point having been held to a draw by Cameroon.
Both sides have squared off 18 times, with the Super Eagles boasting the upper hand with 8 victories, the North Africans have won 6 times and the other 4 matches ended in stalemates.
The Algerians will look to great attacking talents like Riyad Mahrez, Sofiane Feghouli, Slimani, Yacine Brahimi, Nabil Bentaleb to punish any lapses on the part of the Super Eagles. Nigeria will be pinning its hopes on the young talents of Kelechi Iheanacho, Alex Iwobi, and the experience of Victor Moses and John Obi Mikel to emerge victorious.
It promises to be an enthralling encounter.
ARGENTINA'S COLLAPSE: HOW TO GET ARGENTINA BACK ON TRACK
A squad brimming with talented heavy weights like Messi, Aguero, Higuain, Di-Maria, Mascherano etc should not be associated with such abject displays but they have been so poor that Argentina are in danger of missing out on the 2018 World Cup in Russia. To put that into perspective, last time Argentina failed to make it to a World Cup was way back in 1970.
Quite frankly a lot is just not right with the National team, there is the Failure at the Institutional level (The AFA), tactically inept Coach, constantly under-performing players etc.
1) The AFA (The Argentine football association) have to put their house in order: Their troubles have been well documented in recent time. In 2015, a presidential election to elect a new president for the body was organised. 75 presidents of different Argentine clubs voted, final count resulted in a draw of 38 to 38 (76 votes in total). The explanation was that one of the electors put a double vote and that the mistake was not reported. The elections were postponed and due to hold in June 2016. In June 2016, the AFA president Luis Segura was charged with aggravated administrative fraud. Segura has since been replaced on an interim basis by the AFA's executive secretary, Damien Dupiellet. The AFA is currently without a president and in total disarray.
2) The need for a tactically astute coach: Edgardo Bauza has inspired little confidence in his short reign so far. Not only have Argentina been unable to garner points, but their displays have been insipid and purposeless. The Albiceleste are a footballing power house and are definitely not lacking world class coaches. Coaches like Diego Simeone, Mauricio Pochettino, Jorge Sampaoli, Marcelo Biesla spring to mind. It is about time a world class manager is put in charge under a stable working environment, then the required results will follow.
3) A tactical set-up and identity: In the Super-Clasico, Bauza set his team up in a rigid 4-4-2 formation. Romero, Zabaleta, Otamendi, Funes Mori, Mas, Mascherano, Biglia, Enzo Perez, Di Maria, Messi, Higuain. The plan was obviously to contain the Brazilians, induce mistakes and hit on the break when Dani Alves and Marcelo had pushed forward. It was an overly cautious and timid approach but on another day could have paid off. The problem was after Brazil took the lead, Argentina looked totally bereft of ideas. Bauza was shown up, no tactical reshuffle, no plan B, no inspired substitutions, absolutely nothing was forthcoming. An identity has to be created for example a possession based high pressing all action approach, or defensive astuteness and ruthless counter
attacking football etc. Also they have to work on their passing combination and movements. It made for painful watching seeing superstars like Messi, Aguero, Higuain, Di-Maria unable to string 3-4 passes together.
4) Blood in new players to challange or phase out the old players: It is clear to see that the team is in dire need of a revolution, a shake up of some sorts. How Genorimo Rulli, the 1st choice goalkeeper of Real Sociedad does not make the squad is baffling, Mateo Mussachio, the Villarreal Center Back has to be given a chance to stake a claim for a spot in the lineup, Matias Kranevitter of Atletico Madrid should be given a fair shot at making the team, Ever Banega, Leandro Parades, Erik Lamela, Javier Pastore, can provide much needed creativity from the midfield, Dybala, Icardi and Angel Correa, Vietto, Lanzini should battle strikers like Higuain and Aguero for a starting berth. Players like Romero, Zabaleta, seem to make the squad based on reputation and Lavezzi (way past his best) being called up shows how much Argentina have lost their bearing.
Also there has to be a change in the mentality, build a mental fortitude and march on from the disappointment of losing 3 consecutive finals in 3 years.
Only then can Argentina pick themselves up, salvage what is left of a lackluster qualification campaign, look ahead and build towards the future.
Friday, 11 November 2016
Thursday, 10 November 2016
Wednesday, 9 November 2016
AFRICAN TITBITS
>> Peter Utaka, the brother to John Utaka, has won the top scorer in J-League. The Nigerian becomes the 2nd African after Patrick Mboma to win the top-scorer gong in the Japanese top flight.
>> The World Cup Qualifiers are here and Africa is not left out. There are some intriguing Match-ups this weekend. Algeria vs Nigeria, Egypt vs Ghana, Senegal vs South Africa just to name a few. So be sure to tune-in to behold the best of African football.
TRANSFER UPDATES
>> Chelsea's Van Ginkel set to go out on loan. Seemingly not in the immediate plans of Chelsea FC, a loan deal might be his best shot at resurrecting his career.
>> Cedric to Barcelona. The Sunderland Right Back has supposedly leeped to the top of Barcelona wish list. Since the news of Hector Bellerin's imminent contract renewal, Cancelo's hefty price tag, and Srna and Leichsteiner aging, Cedric has become an interesting option. Well one thing is sure, Barcelona want a Right Back with the only RB at the club not a specialist.
>> Griezmann to Manchester United? This is emanating from Griezmann's comment of wanting to play with French teammate Paul Pogba. As it stands it is just a crazy transfer news chunked out from the rumour mill.
INJURY UPDATES
>> Hector Bellerin is set to face a spell on the sidelines, not having fully recovered from the rigours of the North London derby. He is set to miss the Spanish U-21 upcoming European qualifiers, has been replaced in the squad by Sunderlands Manquillo.
>> Alexis Sanchez got injured in training with Chile National team, initial reports stated a low grade muscle tear but Alexis himself refutes claims that he will be out for a long period of time. He is hoping to return as soon as next week. So Arsenal fans calm your nerves!
>> Zouma set to return for Chelsea after the international break. He has already featured for the Chelsea reserves and came through unscathed. Already training in a 3 man defense. Good way to endear yourself to the new coach.
>> Samuel Umtiti has pulled a hamstring in France training session during the International break. He is to be replaced by Valencia's Mangala. Will definitely miss the game against Sweden. Fc Barcelona will be most worried though, with Mascherano currently the only fit Centre Back available.
Tuesday, 8 November 2016
30 YEARS ON: SIR ALEX FERGUSON ALTERS THE COURSE OF HISTORY
Sir Alexander Chapman 'Alex' Ferguson born 31st December 1941 was appointed manager of Manchester United, led them for the first time on the 8th day of November 1986 and remained at the helm till 2013. In those 26 years with Manchester United, he won an unprecedented 38 trophies, which included 13 Premier League titles, 5 FA Cups and 2 UEFA Champions League titles amongst a host of other trophies but his magnificent trophy haul does not even start to do him justice.
It was not smooth sailing, fair to say United were in dark times, rooted in the bottom three and in all sorts of problems. Over the course of the season results and performances improved and Manchester United eventually finished in a respectable 11th place. The next season he made a few signings and his team was beginning to take shape. Manchester United finished in 2nd place behind Liverpool. The next 2 seasons were low points with United finishing Mid-table and just outside the relegation zone respectively. There were calls for him to be sacked and Sir Alex Ferguson later described it as the darkest period he had ever suffered in the game.
In the years that followed, League titles, FA Cups, the Champions League etc were all amassed. Sir Alex Ferguson had successfully reorganized the club's coaching and scouting system from top to bottom. Arguably the high point of his Manchester United career came in the treble triumph of the 1998/1999 season. The manner in which it was attained was what made it all the more pleasing, the players never gave in and history was made. He would later go on to be knighted in the 1999 Queen's Birthday Honours list for his services to the game. But beyond the obvious allure of trophies won, what made Sir Alex Ferguson's reign standout was the professionalism instilled, mentality of the collective over the individual and the ultimate never say die attitude. The youth academy and scouting system were such a great success under him and who can forget the great class of 92.
He just had the knack of transforming 'Good' into 'Great'. To fully appreciate his impact, one only has to look to the state of things at Old Trafford since he retired in 2013. Since then we have gone from David Moyes, Louis Van Gaal, Ryan Giggs somewhere in between as interim coach and now Jose Mourinho. Fair to say they have all relatively struggled to fill the void, but then again who wouldn't. To put the struggles in perspective, Manchester United never finished outside the top 3 in his 21 seasons in charge (Premier League was founded in 1992), since his departure United have not risen above a 4th place finish.
He really was consistency and longevity personified. The greatest manager Manchester United ever had and undoubtedly an all time great of this sport. Legend!
 |
| United could do with 'Fergie Time' nw! |
Monday, 7 November 2016
TRANSFER NEWS
It's that time of the year, winter is upon us, the January transfer window looms and the rumour mills cannot help but go gaga.
>> Axel Witsel to Juventus? The Zenit St Petersburg player has been linked with a move to Juventus yet again. News emanating says he will join Juventus but does not know when. We sure will keep an eye on that one.
>> Steven N'Zonzi on the radar of Chelsea? Well safe to say N'Zonzi is a wanted man. Barcelona, Arsenal, Juventus have all been credited with interest. His displays for Sevilla this term have clearly not gone unnoticed.
>> Axel Witsel to Juventus? The Zenit St Petersburg player has been linked with a move to Juventus yet again. News emanating says he will join Juventus but does not know when. We sure will keep an eye on that one.
>> Steven N'Zonzi on the radar of Chelsea? Well safe to say N'Zonzi is a wanted man. Barcelona, Arsenal, Juventus have all been credited with interest. His displays for Sevilla this term have clearly not gone unnoticed.
JUDGE SAYS NEYMAR'S FRAUD TRIAL SHOULD GO AHEAD
Well the never ending case of irregularities in Neymar jr's transfer from Santos to Barcelona has reared its ugly head once again. Months ago the case was seemingly dismissed but today (Monday) a Spanish judge has said the Barcelona and Brazil forward should face trial for fraud. The investment fund DIS was entitled to 40% of Neymar's transfer from Santos but instead claims to have received a smaller amount than it should have because some part of the transfer was supposedly hidden. So Neymar jr, his father, Barcelona former president (Sandro Rossell), present president (Josep Maria Bartomeu), Barcelona as a club are to stand trial. Barcelona had already been told to pay a sum to the tune of 5.5m Euros because of tax fraud in Neymar's transfer.
Neymar who recently penned a new 5 year contract with Barcelon in October has enjoyed a fruitful career till date with the Catalan giants, winning 2 La Liga titles, 1 Champions League trophy, 2 Copa Del Rey, the Club World Cup and both the Spanish and European Super Cups.
Neymar who recently penned a new 5 year contract with Barcelon in October has enjoyed a fruitful career till date with the Catalan giants, winning 2 La Liga titles, 1 Champions League trophy, 2 Copa Del Rey, the Club World Cup and both the Spanish and European Super Cups.
Sunday, 6 November 2016
ARSENAL VS TOTTENHAM MATCH PREVIEW
ARSENAL VS TOTTENHAM MATCH PREVIEW
KICK OFF: 1:00PM
VENUE: EMIRATE STADIUM
REFEREE: MARK CLATTENBURG
Considering the sensational form of The Gunners, one
would be forgiven for thinking that the opening day defeat to Liverpool came a
long time ago. Such has been their imperious form, that they have gone 15 games
unbeaten in all competitions (12 wins and 3 draws).
Over the years, the month of November has been known
to hold countless nightmares in terms of form and fitness for the Gunners. But
they couldn’t have started the month in any better style than showing grit and
the mentality of a top team, by coming from behind to claim a 3-2 victory,
after going down 2-0 to Ludogorets just after 15mins.
Arsene Wenger seems to have produced a masterclass by
deploying Sanchez through the middle, because the Chilean has flourished in
that position, and Mesut Ozil has been the greatest beneficiary of the
intelligent movement and runs of the Chilean, because he has put on his scoring
boots. Although it remains to be seen if Olivier Giroud, who is fit and scoring
again, would be deployed through the middle against their North London rivals.
The reverse has been the case for Tottenham, they come
into this game on the back of a 1-0 defeat to Bayer Leverkusen at the Wembley
stadium in the Champions league, in their worst display of the season so far.
They are also without a win in six games in all competition, their last win
coming against Manchester City.
With Janssen still taking time to find his feet in the
Premier league, it remains to be seen if Pochettino would thrust a fit-again
Kane straight into the game, after spending time on the sidelines, or if he’ll
be more cautious and start Kane on the bench.
STAT:
Arsenal have won 5/6 of their home matches this season
Of the last 6 North London derbies, Arsenal have won
2, drawn 3, and lost 1
INJURY AND
SUSPENSION
ARSENAL: Lucas Perez, Chuba Akpom, Per Mertesacker and Danny
Welbeck are all out, Kieran Gibbs and Santi Carzorla both need to pass a late
fitness test
TOTTENHAM: Erik
Lamela and Toby Alderweireld are both out, while Moussa Dembele
is a doubt after twisting his ankle.
Saturday, 5 November 2016
ATLETICO MADRID COME UP SHORT AT THE ANOETA
There is something about Real Sociedad and their home ground the Anoeta. Quite frankly, to emerge unscathed from the trip you definitely have to bring your A game. Atletico Madrid never really looked at the height of their powers, culminating in Kevin Gameiro missing a guilt edged opportunity in the first half. Going into the break and both teams had drawn a blank.
The 2nd interval commenced with both teams slugging it out in what was proving so far to be a balanced encounter. Then came the decisive moment, penalty kick to Real Sociedad and up stepped Carlos Vela nonchalantly rolling to the bottom corner: cool as you like. In all honesty, Atletico Madrid never really seemed like clawing their way back into the contest, and a subsequent 2nd goal followed for Real Sociedad, yet another penalty kick converted by Willian Jose this time. That is how it stayed, a loss for Atletico Madrid and the hosts were full value for their win.
Diego Simeone rightly said in his post match conference, "we were 2nd best for most of the game and can have no complaints on the officiating". So back to the drawing board El Cholo as the international break beckons.
The 2nd interval commenced with both teams slugging it out in what was proving so far to be a balanced encounter. Then came the decisive moment, penalty kick to Real Sociedad and up stepped Carlos Vela nonchalantly rolling to the bottom corner: cool as you like. In all honesty, Atletico Madrid never really seemed like clawing their way back into the contest, and a subsequent 2nd goal followed for Real Sociedad, yet another penalty kick converted by Willian Jose this time. That is how it stayed, a loss for Atletico Madrid and the hosts were full value for their win.
Diego Simeone rightly said in his post match conference, "we were 2nd best for most of the game and can have no complaints on the officiating". So back to the drawing board El Cholo as the international break beckons.
MANCHESTER CITY STUMBLE YET AGAIN....AT THE ETIHAD
Manchester city dominated today at the Etihad but a combination of some inspired defensive resistance from Calum Chambers, Ben Gibson, Victor Valdes etc and some lackluster finishing on the part of the Citizens ensured that the spoils were shared. In typical fashion, the talisman Sergio Aguero opened the scoring, his 150th goal for the club. There was always the ever present threat from Boro on the counter. Then came a big moment in the 1st half, Jesus Navas hit the post just before the interval, and that meant Boro still had a fighting chance in the 2nd period. So it proved in the dying moments of the match from an unlikely source (De Roon) Middlesbrough drew level.
Guardiola must be pondering where it went wrong after 3 straight home draws, and the latest coming after a midweek masterclass against Barcelona, in the process relinquishing top spot. In truth it is a performance which on another day could have yielded maximum points.
This should not set the alarm bells ringing at the Etihad yet, 3 consecutive 1-1 draws at home can be quite demoralizing but the performance in itself has been quite scintillating atimes. Guardiola and City can remain upbeat knowing that a more clinical edge and a bit of luck when it matters should be enough to turn their fortunes around.
Guardiola must be pondering where it went wrong after 3 straight home draws, and the latest coming after a midweek masterclass against Barcelona, in the process relinquishing top spot. In truth it is a performance which on another day could have yielded maximum points.
This should not set the alarm bells ringing at the Etihad yet, 3 consecutive 1-1 draws at home can be quite demoralizing but the performance in itself has been quite scintillating atimes. Guardiola and City can remain upbeat knowing that a more clinical edge and a bit of luck when it matters should be enough to turn their fortunes around.
MATCH BETTING PREVIEWS
MANCHESTER CITY VS MIDDLESBROUGH
Form Guide : Manchester city : WDDLW
Middlesbrough : WDLDL
History : In the last 4 encounters between both teams, there have been 2 draws and 1 win apiece.
Prediction : Manchester City to win.
REAL SOCIEDAD VS ATLETICO MADRID
Form Guide : Real Sociedad : WWLWL
Atletico Madrid : WLWWW
History : Both teams have met 13 times in the last 6 years. Atletico Madrid have won 10 of the games, Real Sociedad have won 2 games and 1 game ended all square.
Prediction : Atletico Madrid to win.
BAYERN MUNICH VS HOFFENHEIM
Form Guide : Bayern Munich : WWDDW
Hoffenheim : WWWWW
History : Both teams have met 15 times in the past 7 years. Bayern Munich have won 11 times, the remaining 4 matches ended in stalemates.
Prediction : Bayern Munich win and over 2.5 goals in the match.
BASEL VS LAUSANNE
Form Guide : Basel : WDWDW
Lausanne : LLLWW
History : Since the year 1999 till date there have been 29 matches between both teams. Basel won 17, Lausanne won 5 and 6 matches ended in draws.
Prediction : Basel to win and over 2.5 goals in the match.
CELTIC VS INVERNESS
Form Guide : Celtic : WWWWW
Inverness : DWDLD
History : There has been 30 matches between both teams since the year 2000 to date. Of which Celtic have won 21, Inverness won 5 and 4 matches ended all square.
Prediction : Celtic to win and over 2.5 goals in the match.
PSV VS TWENTE
Form Guide : Psv : WWDDW
Twente : DWDDW
History : Both teams have met 19 times since 1999. Psv lead the way with 9 wins, Twente 5 wins and 5 matches drawn. Current league position, Psv sit on 3rd place while Twente sit on 6th position.
Prediction : over 2.5 goals in the match.
BANGOR CITY VS TNS
Form Guide : Bangor City : WWDWD
Tns : WWWWW
History : 24 meetings since 2009. TNS won 19, Bangor won 4 and 1 match ended in a draw.
Prediction : TNS to win and over 2.5 goals in the match.
Form Guide : Manchester city : WDDLW
Middlesbrough : WDLDL
History : In the last 4 encounters between both teams, there have been 2 draws and 1 win apiece.
Prediction : Manchester City to win.
REAL SOCIEDAD VS ATLETICO MADRID
Form Guide : Real Sociedad : WWLWL
Atletico Madrid : WLWWW
History : Both teams have met 13 times in the last 6 years. Atletico Madrid have won 10 of the games, Real Sociedad have won 2 games and 1 game ended all square.
Prediction : Atletico Madrid to win.
BAYERN MUNICH VS HOFFENHEIM
Form Guide : Bayern Munich : WWDDW
Hoffenheim : WWWWW
History : Both teams have met 15 times in the past 7 years. Bayern Munich have won 11 times, the remaining 4 matches ended in stalemates.
Prediction : Bayern Munich win and over 2.5 goals in the match.
BASEL VS LAUSANNE
Form Guide : Basel : WDWDW
Lausanne : LLLWW
History : Since the year 1999 till date there have been 29 matches between both teams. Basel won 17, Lausanne won 5 and 6 matches ended in draws.
Prediction : Basel to win and over 2.5 goals in the match.
CELTIC VS INVERNESS
Form Guide : Celtic : WWWWW
Inverness : DWDLD
History : There has been 30 matches between both teams since the year 2000 to date. Of which Celtic have won 21, Inverness won 5 and 4 matches ended all square.
Prediction : Celtic to win and over 2.5 goals in the match.
PSV VS TWENTE
Form Guide : Psv : WWDDW
Twente : DWDDW
History : Both teams have met 19 times since 1999. Psv lead the way with 9 wins, Twente 5 wins and 5 matches drawn. Current league position, Psv sit on 3rd place while Twente sit on 6th position.
Prediction : over 2.5 goals in the match.
BANGOR CITY VS TNS
Form Guide : Bangor City : WWDWD
Tns : WWWWW
History : 24 meetings since 2009. TNS won 19, Bangor won 4 and 1 match ended in a draw.
Prediction : TNS to win and over 2.5 goals in the match.
MANCHESTER CITY VS MIDDLESBROUGH MATCH PREVIEW
MANCHESTER CITY VS MIDDLESBROUGH MATCH PREVIEW
KICK-OFF:
4pm.
VENUE:
Etihad Stadium.
REFEREE:
Kevin Friend.
The blue
team of Manchester come into today’s game on the back of an emphatic and morale-boosting
victory against European giants, Barcelona. Before that, they ended their
six-match winless streak with a 4- 0 win against West Ham at the Hawthorns.
Sergio
Aguero did not get on the score sheet against Barcelona, but proved to be
turning into the striker that Guardiola had been crying out to see, with his
diligent pressing of the Catalan defenders, and his movement and positioning
when City were without possession. Ilkay
Gundogan seems to be flourishing in an advanced position after scoring his
second brace of the season against the Catalans (his first was against West
Brom).
Middlesbrough,
like their opponents, enjoyed a successful weekend last time out, when they
beat Bournemouth 2-0 at home to end an eight-match winless streak across all
competition, but it is doubtful they will be feeling more confident than their hosts.
Of their 8
home matches, Manchester City have won 6 (75%), and drawn the remaining 2,
leaving them unbeaten at the Etihad so far this season.
Middlesbrough
can take confidence from the fact that out of their 5 away matches, they have
lost just once, drawn 3 (that includes an in-form Arsenal team), won 1, scored
4 goals and conceded just 5, which is a pretty decent statistics for a team
just returning from the Championship.
INJURY CONCERN and SUSPENSION
MANCHESTER
CITY: Fabian Delph is a long term absentee, Sagna remains sidelined with a
hamstring injury, while Fernandinho needs to
pass a late fitness test after picking up a knock against Barcelona. There are
no suspension worries.
MIDDLESBROUGH:
Marten De Roon, Christian Stuani and David Ayala are all doubtful with knocks,
while Gaston Ramirez is suspended.
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