Joseph Yobo was a guest of honour as his former club Everton took on Bournemouth in a Barclays Premier League game on Saturday. The former Nigeria captain was presented to the fans at half time and received a stadium wide ovation from all present. Fans chanting Yobo, Yobo, Yobo as I came on against Bournemouth […]
Arsenal title challenge received another major blow this time due the injury of goalkeeper Petr Cech. Cech as been ruled out by a calf injury for about a month during their last home game loss to Swansea.
The Arsenal keeper was racing back towards his goal from the Swansea side of the pitch where he had gone to see if he could help his club pull one back via a corner kick in the closing minutes of the Arsenal vs Swansea game that ended 1-2 in favour of the Swans.
This news was confirmed by Arsenal Manager Arsene Wenger during his weekly press conference ahead of the North London Derby between second placed Tottenham and third placed Arsenal on Saturday
John Obi Mikel of Chelsea today hit a milestone after replacing Spanish Midfielder Cesc Fabregas in the Boxing day tie against Watford at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea’s Nigerian midfielder made his 350th appearance for the blues today when returnee interim manager Guus Hiddink gave him a chance to replace Cesc Fabregas in the 2-2 home draw against Watford.
Mikel Joined Chelsea in 2006 from Lyn Oslo amidst some controversy but as since gone on to establish himself as one of the longest serving Chelsea players in recent history.
Mikel Obi has not been as busy as most players in the current squad but he must be doing something right in training as Manager after manager as kept him in the squad.
The midfielder as won The Europa Cup, The Champions League, two League Cups, two Premier League titles, and four FA Cup trophies.
Happy Days are here again for Liga BBVA Clubs as the League announced a new domestic Tv deal worth 2.65 billion euros for 3 seasons.
The English Premiership still remains the league with the biggest Tv deal in the world with a deal worth approximately 6.9 Billion Euros. But this new Spanish League deal is a welcome development, following a law that was passed earlier on in the year that makes it mandatory for all the clubs to collectively bargain for this type of deals.
The two top teams in the Liga BBVA used to get the largest chunk of such deals before leaving whatever was left to the other clubs, but this new arrangement will see more money get to the other clubs in the top flight of the Liga, while performance in the last five season will also influence how much each club will eventually get.
The Segunda Division will also get ten percent of the Tv deal money a development that will see many more spanish clubs empowered to do more in the transfer market and this can only augur well for the Spanish game.
Sticking with the 4-3-3 attacking formation again this week the lads of @Newfanzone have chosen the Barclays Premier League team of the week, what do you think? have you got yours? would like to have it published here? if yes please send it to fanzone.fans@gmail.com, you can also post it on our Newfanzone page on Facebook. Please remember to follow @Newfanzone on twitter @El_Pauleta, @tobipreety, @demydemo and @solarogers and we will follow you right back.
Formation: 4-3-3
Goalkeeper: Adrian (West Ham United)
Adrian had an outstanding performance at the Etihad on Saturday. He made seven saves in the match,if not for him Manchester City would have won against West Ham.
Right back: Simon Francis (Bournemouth)
Francis had an impressive game against Sunderland on Saturday, he provided defensive solidity to his team and was always a treat going forward.
Centre back: Winston Reid (West Ham United)
The New Zealand centre-back was at his best against League leaders Manchester City on Saturday,making 21 clearances at the Etihad.
Centre back: Kurt Zouma (Chelsea)
The young French defender had an impressive game against Arsenal on Saturday. He performance in the heart of the Blues defence was brilliant throughout the match and he capped it off with a fine header to give Chelsea the lead.
Left Back: Cesar Azpilicueta (Chelsea)
The Spanish defender had an excellent performance against Arsenal. He “bossed” is side of the pitch making sure the Gunners couldn’t penetrate Chelsea’s defense through the left wing.
Midfielder: Etienne Capoue (Watford)
Capoue had a brilliant performance providing steel to the Hornets’ midfield against Newcastle on Saturday. He started most of Watford’s attacking build up and he set up one of Quique Flores’ men two goals.
Midfielder: Matt Ritchie (Bournemouth)
Matt Ritchie was at his best against Sunderland, his creativity and work rate in the midfield was a delight to watch. He capped off his eye catching performance on Saturday with a magnificent goal.
Midfielder : Riyad Mahrez (Leicester City)
The Algeria midfielder continues to impress for the Foxes. He sparked Leicester’s second half fightback scoring a penalty in the 51st minute in a 2-2 draw at Stoke.
Forward: Callum Wilson (Bournemouth)
The Cherries striker continued his good goal scoring form when he turned veteran defender Younes Kaboul on the edge of the box to score a beautiful goal against Sunderland on Saturday.
Forward: Odion Ighalo (Watford)
The Nigerian striker was at his best on Saturday against Newcastle scoring two well-taken goals.
Forward : Anthony Martial (Manchester United)
The teenage French striker continued his spectacular start to his Manchester United career scoring two well taken goals against Southampton at St. Mary’s stadium on Sunday. Anthony Martial has scored with all three of his shots on target in the premier League.
Our pick of the weekend has returned after the mid-week games in Europe and some teams have turned their fortunes around and will hope to transfer the form into their league matches. Players who have been rested will also make a return after a deserved rest and also look to make immediate impact for their club.
Tobi Olubiyi’s (@tobipreety) predictions:
SPANISH LA LIGA
Sevilla Vs Celta – Both teams to score (BTTS): Sevilla had a fantastic game in the Champions League at home against German club Borussia Monchengladbach scoring 3 goals. Unai Emery’s men have not won a league game this season but I believe they will score at least a goal against high flying Celta Vigo who are yet to loose this season and have scored 8 goals. I expect both teams to get a get at least a goal each in this game.
Real Madrid Vs Granada – Real Madrid win: Real Madrid have been in fine form this season scoring goals without remorse. They scored 4 against Ukraine giants Shaktar Donesk with Attacker Cristiano Ronaldo scoring 8 goals in his last 2 games and is close to setting a new goal scoring record in Real Madrid. Granada have lost twice this season conceding 7 goals. Los Blancos would be too strong for Granada especially at the Bernabau.
ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE
Chelsea Vs Arsenal – Arsenal win/draw : Chelsea and Jose Mourinho are having their worst possible start to a League campaign in decades and they are currently in 17th place , winning just once in 5 league games but the Blues had an emphatic 4-nil victory mid week against a poor Maccabi Tel Aviv at Stamford Bridge. Arsenal rested a few players in their Champions league game and lost to Dynamo Zagreb who have not tasted defeat in their last 47 matches.
Arsenal have been the in-form team compared to Chelsea so far this season and I believe arsenal will do enough to get at least a point from Chelsea.
Swansea Vs Everton – Both teams to score (BTTS): Ayew and Gomis have made Swansea an overly attacking team this season contributing to the lot of the teams’s goals so far this campaign. Swansea have scored in 4 of the 5 games they have played this season. Roberto Martinez got a well deserved victory against Chelsea last match day scoring 3 goals against the defending Champions.
I expect both teams to go all out for maximum points, this will be an interesting game with both teams getting on the score sheet.
ITALIAN SERIE A
Roma Vs Sassuolo – Roma win : Stadio Olympico is a fortress for Roma and their form this season has seen them undefeated so far including a victory against defending champions Juventus. Sassuolo will have to show something special to get anything in this game.
Chievo Vs Inter milan – Under 2.5: Second placed Chievo have had a dream start to the season so far winning 2 games and conceding just 2 goals and are having a uphill task against Inter Milan who have an 100% record this season. Inter have not scored much and the also do not give away a lot of goals, this will be a cagey game and both teams would want to avoid a defeat and concede few or none. I see this as a tight game between the top 2 teams and there will be less than 3 goals scored by both teams.
GERMAN BUNDESLIGA
Wolfsburg Vs Hertha BSC – Wolfsburg win : Wolfsburg have invested wisely in the summer after the departure of star player De Bruyne. They have started life without him positively by remaining unbeaten in 4 league games. Dardai’s Hertha have also been impressive with just 1 defeat in 4 league matches, but the firepower of Schurlle, Verinha, Draxler behind Bas Dost will be too ferocious for the Hertha defense line lead by Plattenhardt. Wolfsburg will do enough to get the victory at the Volkswagen arena
Borussia Dortmund Vs Bayern Leverkusen – Both teams to Score (BTTS) : Dortmund are one of only 2 teams in Bundesliga with a 100% record this season and a tie against Leverkusen could be tricky especially after the visitors scored 4 goals against BATE Borisov in the Champions League. Both teams would get goals in this game as they are both good attacking sides.
FRENCH LIGUE 1
Monaco Vs Lorient – Monaco win : Leandro Jardim’s men have started the season slowly with 2 wins from 5 games. They lost their last home match against high flying Champions PSG in a 3 nil white-wash. I see them returning the smiles to the grim faces of the Stade Louis Faithfull with a victory against Lorient who have won just once this season.
Marseille Vs Lyon – Over 2.5 goals : This is the biggest fixture in the French Ligue Un this weekend and I expect it to live up to expectations with both teams giving us an exciting match with lots of goals. Marseille have scored 10 goals which is the highest in the league so far this season while Lyon have scored 6 goals.
Ademola Adejuwon’s (@demydemo) predictions:
English Premier League
Chelsea vs Arsenal- Double Chance on Chelsea: Chelsea are not in good form in the league at the moment where they have lost 3 games in 5. The defending Champions got back to winning ways against Maccabi Tel Aviv in the UCL on Wednesday and they would hope they can bring that sort of form to the table when they play against their London neighbours Arsenal who are not in Scintillating form themselves. Jose Mourinho has never lost to Arsene Wenger in the league and I think this will continue this weekend when the Gunners visit the Bridge.
Liverpool vs Norwich- Liverpool win:
Liverpool would want to put the woes of their last two games behind them when they welcome the Canaries. Norwich would be happy that Suarez no longer plays for Liverpool. Coutinho is back for this one after serving his suspension and in him they have someone that could lead the team going forward. Benteke has two goals so far this season with a wonder against Manchester united and if he wants to get plenty of goals for Liverpool he needs to start scoring against smaller teams like Norwich.
Manchester City vs WestHam- Over 1.5goals:
Giant killing West-Ham United visit league leaders Manchester City. The Citizens have yet to concede a goal in the league this season with a sturdy defence made up of Kompany, Kolarov,Sagna and Mangala. West Ham have defeated Arsenal and Liverpool away from home this season and they won’t be scared facing City at the Etihad. An over 1.5 is a safe bet knowing both sides are capable of getting a goal or two in this fixture.
Spanish La Liga
Real Madrid vs Granada- Real Madrid win and over 2.5 goals: Real Madrid are in red hot form at the moment especially their talismanic winger Cristiano Ronaldo who has banged in 8 goals in two games. Rafael Benitez side have yet to concede a goal which means they have found a way to balance attack and defence. Trust Ronaldo to get a goal or two in this one at the Bernabeu.
German Bundesliga
Borussia Dortmund vs Bayer Leverkusen- Both teams to score(BTTS):
Dortmund have been doing fine in the league this season with an 100% record so far. This weekend they welcome a very tricky side in Leverkusen who are basking in the euphoria of their 4-1 victory in the Champions league. Dortmund have scored a lot of goals this season but they’ve also manage to ship in a little which means Leverkusen will have joy going forward especially with the kind of quality they possess offensively in Chicharito, Bellarabi, Hakan and Kiessling. Both team to score will be a safe bet here and trust this game not to disappoint.
Wolfsburg vs Hertha Berlin- Wolfsburg win:
Wolfsburg are in good form at the moment which sees them sit in 3rd position in the Bundesliga at the moment. They lost De Bruyne to Manchester City but in Draxler they have found a perfect replacement for the young Belgian. Hertha has not been bad themselves losing just one games so far but I don’t think they have the squad to push Wolfsburg all the way.
Darmstadt vs Bayern Munich- over 1.5 goals:
Unbeaten Darmstadt welcome defending Champions Bayern to their home. Bayern thus season have found goals easy to come by with Muller,Lewandowski and Costa doing the damage upfront for the Bavarians. Darmstadt have scored 4 and Conceded 3 goals this season which means they might not be given Guardiola’s men too many chances.
French Ligue 1
Monaco vs Lorient (Monaco double chance)
Monaco are in good form in the league at the moment and this weekend they welcome 17th place Lorient who win their first game last week at home to newly promoted Angers. Monaco’s team play has helped them a lot so far this season after losing key players like Abdennour,Kondogbia Carassco and Martial. They may suffer from fatigue due to their Europa league engagement on Thursday but trust them to at least get a point from this game.
Reims vs PSG- double chance(Win or draw) on PSG:
League leaders PSG travel to 3rd place Reims. PSG form is good at the moment with Di Maria and Cavani doing the needful for them. Reims are no pushovers themselves being in third place but trust the Paris Landlords to get something from this game . It’s going to be tough but with the quality PSG possess they should at least get a draw in the encounter.
Italian Serie A
Roma vs Sassuolo- Roma win:
Roma hosts Unbeaten Sassuolo who were held to a draw last time out against Atalanta. Roma held Barcelona to a draw in Rome during the week and their attack of Dzeko, Salah Gervinho is strong enough to defeat any Italian team especially when they play at home.
Paul Ayorinde’s (@El_pauleta) predictions
French Ligue 1
Reims V PSG- PSG win: Paris Saint-Germain will be looking to bounce back from last weekend’s draw against Bordeaux. Reims are a very compact and disciplined side, PSG have won once in the last three meetings at the Stade Auguste Delaune II. I tip PSG to dig deep and get a slim away win.
Rennes V Lille- Double chance(Win or draw) on Rennes: Rennes are in top form in the Ligue 1 this season losing just one game while Lille has been struggling in the league with just one win in the last 5 matches. I expect Lille to be defensive and Rennes might find it hard to break them down. I am predicting a win or draw for Rennes on Friday night.
Italian Serie A
Chievo V Inter Milan- Double chance(win or draw) on Inter: Chievo were denied a 100% start to their season because of a number of poor refereeing decisions at the Juventus arena. Inter maintained their winning run with an important win over city rivals AC Milan. Chievo and Inter are in good form, so i expect the match to be tight. I tip Inter Milan to get a least a draw away from home.
Napoli V Lazio- Both teams to score(BTTS): Napoli continue to struggle in the league while Lazio got their second win of the season last weekend. Both teams are blessed with attacking talents,so i expect a great game of football. I tip both teams to score at Stadio San Paolo on Sunday.
German Bundesliga
Darmstadt 98 V Bayern Munich- Bayern Munich win with over 2.5 goals: Darmstadt have been impressive this season getting good results away from home but I expect Bayern Munich “fire power” to be too much for them. I tip Bayern to win with lots of goals.
Cologne V Borussia Monchengladbach- Double chance(Win or draw) on Cologne: Monchengladbach can’t seem to get a good result this season and i don’t expect them to get a win at the RheinEnergie stadion on Saturday. I am tipping Cologne to get at least a draw at home.
Borussia Dortmund V Bayer Leverkusen- Dortmund win with over 2.5 goals: Dortmund are in top form while Leverkusen are yet to hit top-gear in the league. I expect Dortmund to dominate the match and get a win in an high-scoring game.
Spanish BBVA Liga
Real Madrid V Granada- Real Madrid win with over 3.5 goals: Real Madrid and 2014 Ballon d’Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo are scoring goals with ease. I expect the game at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu to be a goal fest. I tip Real Madrid to win with over 3.5 goals.
Barcelona V Levante- Barcelona win with over 2.5 goals: Barcelona got an important win away from home last weekend and i expect them to continue their La Liga winning run against Levante on Sunday. I tip Barcelona to win convincingly at the Camp Nou.
English Premier League
Manchester City V West Ham: Man City win: Manchester City have got off to a perfect start to the season winning all 5 of their opening fixtures without conceding a single goal. I expect them to defeat an high-flying West Ham United in a tight match at the Etihad on Saturday.
Finally the International break is over and football lovers can get back to enjoy the exciting club football that we love so much. Some key players have returned to their clubs with injuries, some with a low morale from their country’s poor performance or bad treatment from the coach during the series of fixtures. Some players have ended their goal droughts and some have traveled thousands of kilometers to represent their various countries which could result in fatigue. We have to be mindful of these factors as it could affect them and their teams either positively or negatively which will influence the matches. As usual we have picked from the top 5 Leagues in Europe i.e England, Spain, Germany, Italy and France.
Tobi Olubiyi’s (@tobipretty) predictions:
English Premier League
Everton Vs Chelsea – Both teams score (BTTS) : Everton played out a bore goalless draw last time against Tottenham in a game with very few chances for both teams. I see both teams scoring in this game as this is a wounded Chelsea who are coming off a home defeat against Crystal Palace in the London Derby. Chelsea look vulnerable especially at the back and Mourinho has responded by signing 2 defenders on transfer deadline day. Chelsea have conceded 9 goals already this season and old boy Lukaku would want to pile up the misery.
Manchester United Vs Liverpool (English Classico) – Draw : Both teams are going into this fixture at the back of a defeat. Manchester United lost at Swansea while Liverpool had a shocker at home losing by 3 goals to a rampant West Ham. These two teams would seek to avoid back to back defeats and they would most likely be content with a sharing a point and I see this as a draw.
Spanish La Liga
Atletico Madrid Vs Barcelona – Under 2.5 : In recent years Diego Simeoni’s Atletico Madrid have been a very good match for the Catalans. Simeone’s high pressing and high work rate is usually evident against Barcelona who like to pass and keep the ball a lot, this strategy if used perfectly would help them hold off Barcelona and ultimately reduce the amount of goals they concede if they concede at all. I see Atletico Madrid stopping Barcelona’s 100% record in the league and there will be less than 3 goals in this match.
Celta Vigo Vs Las Palmas – Celta win/draw : Celta have started the Campaign really well with 2 wins from 2 and Eduardo Berizzo will be glad to keep the run going or at least avoid defeat away at newly Promoted Las Palmas who haven’t won this season getting 1 point from 2 games. I see Celta avoiding defeat here.
Italian Serie A
Inter Milan Vs AC Milan (Milan Derby)– Under 2.5 : Roberto Mancini’s Inter Milan have started the season well with two wins and a 100% record with their new signings particularly impressive. AC Milan have struggled this season winning one and losing the other. This is a huge derby in Italy and I see both teams going for it as a lot of pride is at stake, I believe there will be less than 3 goals scored in this game.
Palermo Vs Carpi – Palermo win: Palermo is the only team in Italy not to have conceded in both fixtures so far. They have won both games albeit by lone goals. Carpi are bottom of the Log and have conceded 7 goals in 2 games, I see Palermo getting a win.
German Bundesliga
Bayern Munich Vs Augsburg – Bayern Munich win : Bayern Munich have won all 3 games this season scoring 10 goals and conceding just one goal. Pep’s Bavarians look to continue their dominance from last season and retaining the Bundesliga title with another win at home against Augsburg who are yet to win this season. Bayern will be unstopable and will score a couple of goals.
Frankfurt Vs Cologne – Both score : Both teams have done reasonably well so far this season with Cologne particular taking 7 points from an available 9 points and scoring 6 goals in the process. Frankfurt how ever have also scored 6 goals. I see both teams getting on the score sheet in this game.
French Ligue Un
Lyon Vs Lille – Lyon win or draw: Lyon have been hot and cold this season losing one and drawing another in 4 games played. Lille have been the draw specialists this season with 2 goalless draws from 4 games and scoring just one goal conceding once. Herve Renard’s boys haven’t scored a lot and they also don’t give away goals especially with Enyeama in goal. This would be dicey but I will give Olympique Lyon a double chance to either win or draw.
Rennes Vs Nantes – Rennes Win : Rennes have been the surprise package in Ligue Un this season with their signings and also match performances getting 9 points from a possible 12.
I will stick out my neck for a Rennes win away from home.
Ademola Adejuwon’s (@demydemo) predictions:
English Premier League
Everton vs Chelsea- BTTS (Both team to score):
Everton are in relatively good form which sees them a point ahead of the Champions. It is going to be a feisty game as usual and this fixture last season saw Chelsea outscore the Toffees at home. Am going to go for both team to score due to Chelsea’s lack of defensive solidity at the back.
Leicester City vs Aston Villa – Leicester win:
Leicester have been in amazing form this season whilst their opponents this weekend are still trying to gel with the number of player they’ve acquired. Trust Leicester with Mahrez and co to put Aston Villa to the sword.
Italian Serie A
Inter vs AC Milan -Inter win:
Inter Milan have found form easy to come buy and new kid on the block Stefan Jovetic has already announced his return to the Serie A with goals. I expect a win from Inter .
Frosinone vs AS Roma – Roma Win:
Roma are Unbeaten in two games while newcomers Frosinone have not won a game in two. The fire power of Dzeko,Salah and Gervinho might be too hot for the newcomers to handle.
Spanish La Liga
Espanyol vs Real Madrid- Real Madrid win:
It is going to be tricky going to Espanyol but with the form Madrid showed in their last fixture they might just manage to nick a win in a very tricky place.
Celta Vigo vs Las Palmas – Celta win and over 2.5:
Celta are top of the La liga and with new boys Las Palmas coming around trust Nolito and co to get plenty of goals.
Atletico Madrid vs Barcelona- Over 1.5goals :
Atletico Madrid host Champions Barcelona. The winner might be hard to pick but one sure fact is that there will be goals due to the attacking prowess of both teams.
German Bundesliga
Bayern vs Augsburg – Bayern win and over 2.5:
Bayern are in blistering form at the moment while their opponent have just one point in as many games. Trust Muller,Lewandowski and Costa to shine for the Bavarians at the Allainz Arena.
Hannover vs Dortmund – over 1.5goals:
Dortmund are in superb form at the moment but the loss of Reus due to injury might affect them a bit but this fixture guarantee goals.
French Ligue 1
GFC Ajaccio vs Monaco – Monaco Double Chance (Win or draw):
Monaco are away to bottom side Ajaccio. They lost striker Anthony Martial in the transfer window but they still have what it takes to get at least a draw from the bottom place side.
There were some shocking results last match day across Europe, most notably was Juventus home loss for the first time in 48 matches, a streak that was ended unexpectedly by a resolute Udinese side. It must have been a happy weekend for the bookmakers as it didn’t go according to script.
Tobi Olubiyi’s ( @tobipreety) predictions:
ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE
1. Man City Vs Watford – Man city win by handicap: Manchester city are in their element already this season tearing apart West brom and Jose Mourinho’s Chelsea scoring three unreplied goals in both games. They got a well-deserved victory at Goodison Park last match day against Everton, and they are still yet to concede a goal scoring 8 goals in the process. Newly promoted Watford have drawn all three games so far scoring just two goals. I see Man city continuing their barrage and striker Sergio Aguero also settling into the season with a couple of goals. Man city will win with over 2 goal margin.
2. Tottenham Vs Everton – Both teams to score: This has always been an interesting fixture over the years as both teams habitually try to break into the top four. Everton scored three goals mid-week in the League cup against Barnsely, and there has been 12 goals in the last 6 games between these two sides so we can be sure there will be goals. Both teams have conceded 4 goals each in their 3 games so far this season.
SPANISH LA LIGA
3. Celta Vs Rayo Vallecano – Under 2.5 goals : These two teams traditionally don’t score a lot of goals with both teams scoring less than 48 league goals in 38 games last season. This season Celta scored 2 goals on the last match day which they won while Rayo Vallecano played out a goalless draw. This will be a cagey game that can go either way, but I expect very few goals.
4. Sevilla Vs Atletico Madrid – Sevilla win: For me, Europa league winners Sevilla are the team to watch for the race of the UEFA league spots. Athletico Madrid finished 3rd last season while Sevilla finished 5th . Both teams have brought in top players to their squad but I believe Sevilla playing at home will win and have more confidence especially with Athletico Madrid’s unconvincing one-nil win against minnows Las Palmas last time out.
GERMAN BUNDESLIGA
5. Stuttgart Vs Frankfurt – both teams to score : These two teams have struggled in their opening two games of the season and they will both go for the jugular as this game is there for the taking. They are yet to win this season and have both conceded total of 9 goals in 2 games with Stuttgart conceding 6 of those.
6. Wolfsburg Vs Schalke 04 – Wolfsburg win : Both teams are unbeaten this season winning one and drawing one of their 2 games so far, and André Breitenreiter of Schalke will be looking to keep that record even at the Volkswagen arena but the attacking style of Wolfsburg will be tough for Schalke’s defence line led by Cameroon international Joel Matip. I believe Wolfsburg will win though it could be very difficult.
ITALIAN SERIE A
7. Roma Vs Juventus – Draw: the Old Lady of Juventus lost at home for the first time in 48 matches and a lot will be asked of their response to the defeat in this game against Roma. It is always difficult to travel to Stadio Olimpico and it is even more difficult coming from a defeat. Roma also drew away at Hellas Verona but I see them avoiding defeat at home to Juventus.
8. Napoli Vs Sampdoria – both team to score: Sampdoria are high flying this season scoring five goals on match day one against newly promoted Carpi. Napoli failed to get a point from Sassuolo but they got a goal. Napoli have Higuain and Insigne while Sampdoria have Muriel and Eder who both scored in the first game to lead their various attack line.
FRENCH LIGUE UN
9. Guingamp Vs Marseille – Marseille win: Marseille struggled in the first two games of the season loosing both games by one-nil after 5 key players were sold in the transfer window. Former head coach Bielsa resigned after loosing on match day 1 but life under new coach Michel has been delightful as they won six nil on match day 3. It is safe to say the “new manager syndrome “ will still be effective as the players will put in their shifts to impress the new gaffer so as to have a guaranteed shirt in the team. I see Marseille getting the win over Guingamp who have not scored this season and have lost all three games conceding five goals
10. Monaco Vs PSG – Under 2.5 goals : The French Classico as it is called has not lived to the hype in recent times as Monaco are no longer the super powers they used to be, they have not had the financial muscle they had in previous years which made them compete with Qatar backed PSG. Laurent Blanc’s men have a 100% record so far this season and they are obvious favourites going into any game in Ligue Un, they have scored 4 goals in 3 league games and have conceded none. Monaco have been very sluggish this season drawing 2 games and winning one. Monaco will be glad to get a point out of this game so I see them playing with a lot of discipline at the back not to give away goals, also PSG have not been too impressive away from home scoring just 2 goals in their last 2 away games. This game will have very few goals.
Paul Ayorinde’s (@El_pauleta) predictions:
Italian Serie A
1. Carpi V Inter Milan- Inter Milan Win: Serie A newcomers received a trumping away from home last week and I don’t see them stopping Mancini’s men from getting their 2nd win of the season. I am backing an away win for Inter Milan.
2. AC Milan V Empoli- AC Milan Win: Sinisa Mihajlovic started his reign as Milan coach on a bad note when his side lost 2-0 to Fiorentina. Empoli had a poor start to the season as well losing 1-3 at home to Chievo. I tip AC Milan to get a win at home on Saturday.
Spanish BBVA Liga
3. Barcelona V Malaga- Barcelona Win with over 1.5 goals: The La Liga champions will be playing their first home game of the season against Malaga and I expect them to dominate the game and win convincingly. I tip Barcelona to win with a wide goal margin.
4. Sevilla V Atletico Madrid- Both team to score(BTTS): Sevilla played out a bore draw on Matchday 1 while Atletico won narrowly at home against BBVA Liga newcomers Las Palmas. I expect the match at the Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjaun to be the star fixture of Matchday 2. I am backing both teams to score in an entertaining match.
German Bundesliga
5. Borussia Dortmund V Hertha Berlin- Dortmund Win: Thomas Tuchel’s team are in top form scoring goals with ease while Hertha Berlin could only get a draw at home against Werder Bremen last weekend. I tip Borussia Dortmund to win at home on Sunday.
6. Bayern Munich V Bayer Leverkusen- Bayern Win: This is the star match of the weekend in the Bundesliga, Both teams have an 100% record in the leagues thus far. The last time Bayer Leverkusen won at the Allianz Arena was in 2012, i don’t expect that to happen on Saturday so i am backing Bayern Munich to win at home.
French Ligue 1
7. Lille V Ajaccio- Under 2.5 goals: Herve Renard’s team has played two goalless draws this season and Ligue 1 newcomers Ajaccio lost their two games without scoring a goal. I expect the match between these two teams to be a low-scoring affair. I am backing an under 2.5 goals at the Grand stade Lille Metropole on Saturday.
8. Monaco V PSG- Double chance(Win or draw) on PSG: Monaco are a very strong and compact team at home, so I believe it will be difficult for PSG to get a win on Sunday. The last three matches between these teams at the Stade Louis II have all ended in a draw, so i am predicting a Win or Draw for Paris Saint-Germain.
English Premier League
9. Manchester City V Watford- Man City Win with over 2.5 goals: Manchester City are off to a perfect start with three wins from three matches. Watford have picked up three consecutive draws but i don’t see Quique Sanchez Flores’ team posing a threat to the Sky Blues. I am backing Manchester City to win with a wide goal margin.
10. Liverpool V West Ham- Liverpool Win: The reds are unbeaten this season and will look to get back to winning ways against West Ham. Slaven Bilic’s men were beaten last week by BPL newcomers Bournemouth. I tip Liverpool to get an home win on Saturday.
Two of our in-house analyst Tobi Olubiyi and Paul Ayorinde have picked out a couple of interesting games that football lovers would like to watch and possibly wager on you can follow Tobi on twitter @tobipreety and Paul @El_pauleta you can also follow @NewFanzone and we will follow you right back.
Tobi Olubiyi’s (@tobipreety) predictions:
The top 5 European leagues have all kicked off the 2015/2016 season, so my 10-game accumulator this week will be 2 games each from Spain, France, Germany, England and Italy
SPANISH LA LIGA
1. Atletico Madrid Vs Las Palmas – Atletico Madrid win : it’s the first game of the season in Spain and it is a tough start for the newly promoted home team as they are up against an Athletico Madrid team who finished 3rd in La Liga last season and have also strengthened their team significantly during the transfer window. I see this as a victory for the away team maybe not easy but they will squeeze out the win.
2. Sporting Gijon Vs Real Madrid – Over 2.5 goals : Real Madrid playing in front of the bernabau faithful could be sometimes unplayable. Especially with the attacking trio of Ronaldo Benzema and Bale who have a lot to prove to new manager Rafa Benitez. Gijon would have to be outstanding defensively not to concede at least 2 goals in this game. I expect a barrage of goals and I see a total of at least 3 goals in the game from both sides.
GERMAN BUNDESLIGA:
3. Schalke 04 Vs Darmstadt – Schalke win : Home team Schalke 04 won convincingly away at Bremen on match day 1 scoring 3 unreplied goals. The attacking trio of Choupo Moting , Draxler and Huntelaar were superior class and newly promoted Darmstadt will not be able to stop them. Schalke 04 will have a comfortable win in this game.
4. Hannover Vs Bayern Leverkusen – Both team to score(BTTS) : I find it difficult to pick a winner in this one and I would rather play safe by going for both teams scoring. Hannover played a draw in week one away at newly promoted Darmstadt 98 while Bayern Leverkusen had a hard fought victory at home against Hoffenheim. Both teams would get at least a goal in this game.
FRENCH LIGUE UN
5. Lyon Vs Rennes – Lyon win – Lyon got a scrappy one-nil win in week 2 at Guingamp. I see them playing better and more comfortably in front of their home fans. A couple of goals and maybe a goal for striker Alexandre Lacazette who looks set to stay at Stade de gerland this season despite rumours of offers from abroad. Rennes won at home last time out but travelling to Lyon to get a result would be a huge ask.
6. Lille Vs Bordeaux – Under 2.5 : Lille haven’t gotten into their stride yet this season with a point from their opening 2 games , and they played out a drab goalless draw at Monaco on match day 2. Sangol’s Bordeaux on the other side are a tough opponent as well. I see Lille playing to avoid a defeat here rather than going Gung-Ho. We might not see a lot of goals in this game, so I say Less than 3 goals will be scored by both teams.
ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE
7. Man Utd Vs Newcastle – Man utd win : LVG’s Army have won both games so far this campaign albeit both by lone-goal. They also kept clean sheets in both despite not listing star goalkeeper David De Gea in the squad for both matches. Old Trafford is a fortress for Man Utd and a Newcastle team that Struggled to snatch a draw at home on match day 1 against Southampton and also lost woefully on match day 2 in wales against a flamboyant and brave Swansea will not pose much threat to the Red devils. Although Newcastle have got exciting winger Thauvin from Marseille, he would add some bite to their attack.
8.Arsenal vs Liverpool – Draw : If this fixture was towards the end of the season, we could easily say it is the battle for a place in the top 4. Nonetheless it is an important fixture at this stage, Liverpool look really different from last season after bringing in 7 new players and their attack looks dangerous. They have won both games of the season and Arsenal lost on opening day at home to West ham but won away in their second London derby of the campaign at Crystal palace. Both teams will not want to loose such a huge fixture and Liverpool’s impressive defence who haven’t conceded in 2 games would be tested by Arsenal’s patient exquisite passing side. I see a cagey game where both teams will settle for a draw.
ITALIAN SERIE A
9. Hellas Verona Vs Roma – Roma win : first match day of the season in Italy and its an opportunity for players to stake a claim in the team. Roma have brought in decent players during the transfer window with the likes of Dzeko, Salah and Szczesny all coming in from England. They have also held on to Iturbe and Ljajic, Roma are favourites to challenge Champions Juventus for the Scudetto this season.
10. Juventus Vs Udinese – Juventus win : Defending champions Juventus are undoubtedly favourites going into any match in the Serie A especially at home at the Juventus stadium. They lost star playes Tevez and Vidal in the summer but have also strengthened the team from last season by signing Mandzukic, Dyabala and Khedira to bolster the squad. Hellas Verona have also got experience up front with Italian Icons Pazinni and Luca Toni available in the attack to cause problems for Juventus. I see this as a straight and comfortable win for the home team.
Paul Ayorinde’s (@El_pauleta) predictions:
The top 5 European leagues have all kicked off the 2015/2016 season , so my 10-game accumulator this week will be 2 games each from Spain, France, Germany, England and Italy
German Bundesliga
1. FC Ingolstadt V Borussia Dortmund- Dortmund win: The newly-promoted side won away from home against Mainz last week but playing a rejuvenated Dortmund side will be a tough home match for them,so I tip Dortmund to get a slim win on Sunday.
2. Hoffenheim V Bayern Munich- Bayern Munich win with over 2.5 goals: The German champions are back in form scoring lots of goals, so i tip them to win at Hoffenheim with a wide goal margin.
Spanish La Liga
3. Atletico Madrid V Las Palmas- Atletico Win: Diego Simeone’s men had a lovely pre-season prepartion scoring lots of goals. I believe on Saturday the Rojiblancos will be too strong for La Liga newcomers Las Palmas, i tip Atletico Madrid to win at the Estadio Vincente Calderon.
4. Sporting Gijon V Real Madrid- Real Madrid Win with over 1.5 goals: Real Madrid will be travelling to El-Molinon on Sunday with injury worries as Karim Benzema and Pepe are expected to miss the game but they could be a return for Ballon d’or winner Ronaldo. The La Liga newcomers are strong at home but I expect the visitors to show much class and win the match with a couple of goals.
Italian Serie A
5. Juventus V Udinese – Juventus win with Under 4.5 goals: Despite the summer departure of star men Tevez, Pirlo and Vidal, Juventus are still a strong attacking side and will still be odds-on favourites to win the Serie A title. I am backing the reigning champions to kick off their campaign with a low-scoring home win.
6. Fiorentina V AC Milan- Both team to score (BTTS): Both side have an attacking depth, so I expect this particular match to be the highlight of the opening round of Serie A 2015/2016 season. It will be an entertaining game with lots of goals, so I predict both team to score in Florence on Sunday.
French Ligue 1
7. Montpellier V PSG- PSG Win:
Montpellier have had a poor start to the season and will need something special to upset the French champions. Laurent Blanc’s men are unbeaten on their last six visits to Montpellier, so I expect PSG to secure an easy win on Friday night.
8. Toulouse V Monaco- Double chance on Monaco (win or draw): Toulouse are a very defensive and compact side at home, so it will be a tough match for Monaco but I expect the Principality club to show class and a least secure a point away on Saturday.
English Premier League
9. Manchester Utd V Newcastle: Man Utd Win: Manchester United are gradually hitting top form winning their last 3 matches while Newcastle are struggling under new coach Steve McLaren. I expect Manchester United to secure a low scoring home win on Saturday.
10. West Brom V Chelsea- Chelsea Win: After a week 1 thrashing by Manchester City, West Brom were able to play out a 0-0 stalemate at Watford. The Baggies host a Chelsea side yet who are out of sorts and seem to be struggling with
the pressure of being defending Champions. The Blues are already 5
points off the pace and will not want to see rival Clubs gain further ground on them. Courtois returns from suspension and will likely replace the impressive Begovic between the Chelsea sticks. I expect Chelsea to get a slim away win at the Hawthorns on Sunday.
Though the English, French and German leagues will all be in action this weekend. The other 2 leagues in the top 5 European leagues are yet to kick off the 2015/2016 season so in my 10- game accumulator series this week i have included the Russian and Dutch leagues.
English Premier League
1. Swansea vs Newcastle –Swansea win: after watching Swansea against Chelsea in week 1 where they made Chelsea labor to a 2-2 draw at the Stamford bridge, one can safely say this Swansea team sure know how to score goals and hold their own against the top sides. Newcastle on the other hand struggled to draw at home against Southampton. there will be goals in this match but i see the home team winning.
2. Manchester city vs Chelsea – Manchester City win : i’m sticking my neck out on this for Man city after watching a majestic display in their first game against West Brom, also with the fact that Chelsea are win less in their last 6 games including pre season friendlies.
German Bundesliga
3. Wolfsburg vs Entracht Frankfurt- Wolfsburg win : Wolfsburg are a brilliant attacking side who have some dangerous and lightening quick players in their infantry. their win in the German Super cup on penalties against league winners Bayern Munich further proves their strength not to ship in a lot of goals and their mentality after equalizing very late into the game. they also scored 4 goals away from home in their DFB pokal cup win last weekend.
4. Borussia Dortmund Vs Borussia Munchengladcbach – Dortmund win : playing in front of their home fans at the Signal Iduna Park , Dortmund are always a different and dangerous team. though Munchengladbach were more impressive in the league last season, i believe Dortmund have what it takes to get all points.
French Ligue 1
5. Guimgamp vs Lyon – Lyon win : Lyon had a good run last season finishing 2nd and the transfer window was even better as they kept a core of their best players from last season most notably Alexandre Lacazette who was the league top scorer and their best player, they have also brought in former Olympique marsaille midfielder Mathieu Valbuena from Dinamo Moscow
6. PSG vs Ajaccio – PSG Over 2.5 : defending champions PSG won away at Lille on week 1 and playing in front of their home fans should even be easier especially against lowly rated Ajaccio who didnt score in week 1. i see an easy win with a lot of goals for PSG led by the trio of Ibrahimovic,Cavani and Lucas Moura.
Dutch Eredivisie
7. Ajax vs Willem II – Ajax win : Ajax were knocked out of the UEFA Champion league qualifiers last week and the team have a lot of rage at the moment scoring 3 goals and tearing apart poor AZ Alkmar away from home in week 1. i don’t think Willem II have what it takes to stop Ajax from winning when they were only able to dfraw at home against Vitesse in their first game
8. PSV vs Groningen – PSV win : PSV were unfortunate to drop 2 points on week 1 against Ado Den Haag when the host’s goal keeper scored a spectacular scorpion flick very late into the game to rescue a point for his team. the defending champions playing at home would be too strong for Groningen who drew at home in week 1.
Russian Premier league
9. Spartak Moscow vs CSKA Moscow (Main Moscow derby) : Both teams score: these 2 teams are bitter city rivals and this game promises to be ferocious giving the history between these 2 sides . both teams have scored 6 goals in 4 games so far this season with CSKA yet to concede and Spartak conceding just 2. i expect both teams to get at least a goal each in this game.
10. Zenith st Petersburg vs Krasnodar FC – Zenith win: defending champions Zenith coached by Andres villas Boas are arguably the best team in the Russian league and go into any game as favourites. they have continued their success last season already by winning all 4 games so far this season scoring 10 goals in the process. Krasnodar Fc have a mountain to climb in this one.
The battle of the nouveau riche or as twittersphere likes to refer to it “el cashico” sees Manuel Pellegrini’s wobbling team face what many describe as the most formidable team in England.
The stakes are high, the managers poised, old rivals from the Spanish peninsula who had so much to say to and about each other in the press last season.
City face the acrimony of losing 3 of their last 4 games if they should bow to Chelsea while Jose Mourinho’s team will be keen to justify the hype that has followed their brilliant start to the season (maximum points in four matches) while moving 8 points ahead of their arch rivals for the BPL crown.
Chelsea have few injury concerns, Diego Costa who is not fully fit is likely going to start, City on the other hand have been rocked by injuries to Stefan Jovetic and Fernando who has looked like a huge upgrade on the departed Javi Garcia, the Brazilian’s absence has forced Manuel Pellegrini into playing Yaya Toure as a holding midfielder where he didn’t excel in the match against Bayern and in the corresponding tie last season where he was outclassed by Nemanja Matic.
Pellegrini has absolved the Ivorian Powerhouse of blame and spread it out on the team while also reminding all that care to listen that Yaya is still grieving from bereavement.
He’ll get a lot of help from Fernandinho who was quite solid against Bayern on Wednesday and has said all the right things in the press as had David Silva and other members of the squad. We might yet be served up with a spectacle.
Expected City line up (4-2-3-1)
Hart, Zabaleta, Kompany, Demichelis, Clichy, Toure, Fernandinho, Silva, Nasri, Navas, Aguero.
Expected Chelsea line up (4-3-3)
Courtois, Ivanovic, Cahill, Terry, Azpilicueta, Ramires, Fabregas, Matic, Hazard, Schurrle, Costa.
Joel Musa
The Lads at the Newfanzone have collectively selected this week’s Barclays Premier League team of the week (Week 3).
We have chosen to line up in a classic 4-4-2 attacking formation and this are the stand out players for us.
This week’s team is dominated by Chelsea and Stoke City with three players each, followed by Liverpool and Swansea with two players each while Southampton have one player in our team of the week.
What do you think? Do you agree or have you got your own BPL Team of the week? tweet @NewFanzone and also follow us for an us instant follow back
Newfanzone Team of the Week
GK- Asmir Begovic (stoke)
RB- Branislav Ivanovic (chelsea)
LB- Alberto Moreno (liverpool)
CB-Ryan Shawcross (stoke)
CB- Angel Rangel (swansea)
MF- Morgan Schneiderlin (southampton)
MF- Nemanja Matic (Chelsea)
LMF- Raheem Sterling (liverpool)
RMF- Nathan Dyer (Swansea)
Striker- Mame Biram Diouf (stoke)
Striker- Diego Costa (Chelsea)
newfanzone 