Tuesday, September 18, 2012

UEFA Europa League - Group stage, Match day 1


UEFA Europa League

Group stage - Match day 1

Thursday: 20-Sep



[UEFA.COM]

This is the first time since the 2002-03 season Inter doesn't the UEFA Champions League group stages, a competition most Inter fans believe they are accustomed to. After winning the UCL in the 2009-10 season, Inter have suffered in adapting to the competition. Neither Rafa Benitez, Leonardo, Gasperini, Ranieri, nor Stramaccioni were able to, either, win, reach the semis, or even reach the group stage. Since I mentioned the 09-10 UCL, it is good to notice that Inter and Rubin Kazan faced each other during that season in the group stages. Inter faced lots of problems when they traveled to Russia in match day 2 that season, and they collected a difficult point. And Inter won at the Meazza in match day 6 (with Balotelli's stunning strike) to secure a spot in the round-of-16. This year though it's different, Inter aren't showing good indicators while playing at the Meazza. They conceded 7 goals, and scored 3 goals only (in EL and Serie A). It's going to be a tough one for Stramaccioni's side, and Rubin are always there to ruin what seems to be an "easy catch."
Prediction: Inter 1-1 Rubin Kazan


[UEFA.COM]

Tottenham won their first match in the EPL in week #4 against new-boys Reading, with Gareth Bale and Defoe putting a show. While their opponents on Thursday (Lazio) have a 100% record in Serie A (3 wins in 3 games); and that's also a historical record for Rome's eagles. Now, let's see why Lazio can create lots of problems for Spurs and their defence: Hernanes and Klose, those two are becoming a dynamic duo; they scored 8 of Lazio's 12 goals (official matches) in the 2012-13 season. Second, Lazio's unbeaten (no loss no draw) record until now in, both, Serie A and EL. Finally, the Petković factor; this coach is impressing football fans around Italy today. He is not backing down from any challenge, and he made history with Lazio (as I mentioned) when he won the opening 3 games in Serie A... Even the 1999-2000 Lazio didn't do it!
Prediction: Tottenham 1-3 Lazio


[UEFA.COM]

Fenerbahce, one of the most interesting, yet controversial, squads in Europe today. A team that almost reached the UCL group stages this season, if it wasn't for Spartak Moscow's heroics. Fenerbahce have signed with many excellent players, like: Kuyt, Krasic, Sow, and Meireles. This team can reach far in this season's El, and Marseille better watch out. Marseille, who won all of their 5 matches in Ligue 1 this season, are going to give all the effort to defeat Fenerbahce on Thursday. It's going to be an interesting game, game of the week!
Prediction: Fenerbahce 3-2 Marseille


Other results:-

Udinese vs Anzhi
Prediction: Anzhi

Napoli vs AIK
Prediction: Napoli

Maritimo vs Newcastle
Prediction: Newcastle

Hapoel Tel Aviv vs Atletico Madrid
Prediction: A. Madrid

Sporting Lisboa vs Basel
Prediction: Draw

O. Lyonnais vs S. Prague
Prediction: O. Lyonnais



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Monday, September 17, 2012

UEFA Champions League - Match day 1


UEFA Champions League

Match day 1

Tue: 18-Sep and Wed: 19-Sep




Tuesday: 18-Sep @ 18:45 (GMT)


Borussia Dortmund vs Ajax Amsterdam
Prediction: B. Dortmund

D. Zagreb vs FC Porto
Prediction: FC Porto

Montpellier vs Arsenal FC
Prediction: Arsenal

AC Milan vs Anderlecht
Prediction: Draw

Malaga vs Zenit
Prediction: Zenit

Olympiacos vs Schalke 04
Prediction: Draw


Wednesday: 19-Sep @ 18:45 (GMT)


Celtic FC vs SL Benfica
Prediction: SL Benfica

S. Braga vs Cluj
Prediction: Draw

FC Barcelona vs Spartak Moscow
Prediction: FC Barcelona

Manchester United vs Galatasaray
Prediction: Man. United

Bayern Munchën vs Valencia CF
Prediction: B. Munchën

Shakhtar vs Nordsjælland
Prediction: Draw

LOSC Lille vs BATE Borisov
Prediction: LOSC Lille



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Chelsea FC vs Juventus FC, UEFA Champions League - Match day 1

[UEFA.COM]

UEFA Champions League

Match day 1

Stamford Bridge, Wednesday: 19-Sep


Unbeaten Serie A champions visit UCL title holders:-
Juventus, the reigning Italian champions. Unbeaten in Serie A since May-2011, a team that regained it's power, dignity, and pride thanks to great management and players. Juve is one of only 2 Italian teams in this season's UCL (along with AC Milan), and they'll do what it takes to reach far in this competition! In the other corner, we have the reigning UCL champions; Chelsea!!! A team that surprised everyone, even their own spectators last season. A good squad that just got better this season, with the addition of Hazard, Marín, and Oscar... Chelsea are stronger than ever.


Di Matteo vs Conte ... Young Italian history makers:-
Di Matteo, the interim coach who shocked the world last season. Winning to major trophies in months; but most importantly (of these trophies) is the Champions League title. An accomplishment Mourinho, Grant, Scolari, Hiddink, Ancelotti, and Villas-Boas couldn't manage while at Chelsea. This guy is young and talented, and in the future he may be named as Italy's coach.
Antonio Conte, or as Mourinho calls him "the Italian Special One." A coach that resurrected Juve, and lead to their 28th league title unbeaten. What makes this guy interesting is the way he handles every match, the way he transforms his playing style. And he's going to "bedazzle" us once again this Wednesday, and he's gonna do it perfectly!


Prediction:-
Conte can't be on the bench during UCL games also, well that's a bit unsatisfying for Juve! But, as I said before, since this guy is coaching Juve on the training ground and his assistant does what he (Conte) says... Then there's nothing to worry about Juve fans.
Chelsea FC 1-2 Juventus FC



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Real Madrid CF vs Manchester City FC, UEFA Champions League - Match day 1

[UEFA.COM]

UEFA Champions League

Match day 1

Estadio Santiago Bernabéu, Tuesday: 18-Sep


1st match in the "Group of Death":-
The "Group of Death" indeed! And match day 1 couldn't be more "deadly" for, both, Real Madrid and Man City. This group is so "deadly" even both teams couldn't win their league games on the weekend, and they all have great squads. Mourinho and Mancini have one thing in common, they once coached Inter. And I know how both managed in these crucial times! Mourinho is somewhat a "give me a second round spot, and I'll be happy coach", and does what he does best in the knockout phase... And that's winning! While Mancini can collect the whole 18 points in the group stage and gets knocked out in the round-of-16. But that wasn't they case last season, Mourinho did a splendid job in collecting the whole 18 points, and got knocked out in the semis against Bayern (PKs). In the other hand, Mancini was knocked out from the group stages; and then knocked out by Sporting in the EL! Well, both managers ended up winning their domestic titles, though.


Awful weekend for both... Who will rise?:-
Let's begin with the hosts, Real Madrid. They lost Sevilla in a match were, personally, I thought they were gonna prevail easily. Some of Mourinho's men shown lack of interest in playing during that match, and others just didn't know how to score (get it, Gonzalo?). I just read that Sevilla's coach (Michel) told Marca radio that "Real Madrid will bounce back and beat Man City 3-0." Well, that's you're opinion Mr. Michel, but 3-0 against the EPL champions isn't that easy. Moving on to the guests, Man City. Mancini claims that Crouch "must join the NBA" after his goal in the 1-1 draw; but I have a question for you Mr. Mancini: why criticise while not being able to win? I mean Crouch's goal wasn't a last minute equaliser, or even a winner. You have a squad that can win any league title in the world; heck, even Man City's subs can win the Serie A! 
To answer the question "who will rise?", I believe Real Madrid can win... But not as easy as Michel claims!


Prediction:-
It's gonna be a great match, take my word! Only if Mancini didn't play the old Italian "Catenaccio" style to earn a point at the Bernabéu. Mourinho MUST do what Sir Alex Ferguson did in the past against stubborn English sides, play CR7 as a CF! That way you'll win.
Real Madrid CF 2-1 Manchester City FC



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PSG vs D. Kiev, UEFA Champions League - Match day 1

[UEFA.COM]

UEFA Champions League

Match day 1

Parc des Princes, Tuesday: 18-Sep 


Welcome back PSG:-
This is the first time PSG reaches the UCL group phase since the 2004-05 season, but this time with a star-studded squad. Last time PSG were in the UCL they didn't manage to reach the knock-out stages, while this time, in my opinion, they'll do so. The UCL competition needs more teams like PSG, teams who are willing to create more competition; even though it's tough to win it all, but competing against teams like Barcelona, Real Madrid, Manchester United, and others (with PSG's squad) is good for the spectators.


D. Kiev's experience in the competition... Watch out Carlo!:-
Although Ukrainian legend Shevchenko decided to hang his boots after the UEFA EURO 2012 tournament, still, D. Kiev are well experienced in this competition. Also, D. Kiev acquired many good players (i.e. Taiwo and Veloso); this will make Kiev examine whether Carlo Ancelotti's side are capable of handling this prestigious competition's pressure!


Ibra and UCL taboo:-
Zlatan Ibrahimovic, arguably the best versatile attacker in football today. A player with great body-balance, powerful right foot, and flexible body movement. But, this guy is "oh so unlucky" in this competition. We all know how he tried to win it with Juve, Inter, Barça, and Milan... But he couldn't!
I believe in awkward football moments/situations. Let me give you an example: since the 2004-05 season, Chelsea FC were always candidates to win the UCL. Until the day they decided a new project when sacking Carlo Ancelotti and hiring Villas-Boas; if you told anyone that Chelsea FC were candidates to win the UCL in February, that person would think that "you're out of your mind." What happened in May? Chelsea FC defeated B. Munich at the Allianz Arena and claimed the title!
Will this scenario happen to Ibra at PSG? Who knows!!!


Prediction:-
PSG will face lots of problems due to pressure, and if they wanted Ibra to do everything... Then their gonna be upset. I'm not saying Ibra can't shine, but putting all the pressure on his shoulders early in the competition won't do you any favours. All-in-all, I believe will somehow manage a victory!
PSG 2-1 D. Kiev



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Sunday, September 16, 2012

NFL, week 2 ... Great games, but no surprises!


Week #2

Sunday: Sep-16th and Monday: Sep-17th



Sunday: Sep-16th:-

Buccaneers @ NY Giants
Disappointing start to the regular season for the reigning SB champions after their loss in the season opener against the Cowboys, but this doesn't mean Eli Manning and his crew will suffer another loss in Jersey. I believe this is the week were Eli regains his playoff strength and demolishes the Bucs.
Prediction: NY Giants (comfortable win)

Raiders @ Dolphins
The Raiders lost to a well organised Chargers team last Monday is Oakland, but let's keep in mind how Palmer tried his best to make a comeback. This determination from Palmer will payoff this week against a "wounded" Miami Dolphins side, the Dolphins haven't shown a lot of resiliency in the past couple of years... And they won't this season too!
Prediction: Raiders (Slight, but somewhat comfortable)

Texans @ Jaguars
Let me compare the two QBs' performances from last week, Gabbert (Jags) threw for 260 yards, and 2 TDs; while Shaub (Texans) had 6 more yards than Gabbert and 1 TD. It's a close one folks!
BUT, since the Jags lost to the Vikings in OT in Minneapolis; and the Texans beat the "wounded" Dolphins in Houston... I believe the Jags will make their fans go home happy after their season opener at home!
Prediction: Jaguars (A close call, intresting game)

Browns @ Bengals
As I like to call it: Ohio's Derby. The Browns gave the Falcons a hard fought battle last week, but still... They lost! And the Bengals!!! Oh my God. They were dominated by Flacco and the Ravens last Monday. So, we come to the conclusion that both teams have defensive issues. Also, I want to see if the Bengals' coach realised that Dalton's decision during 3rd down is awful. Weeden, since getting under the American flag last week; I believe your going to the ground more often this week.
Prediction: Bengals (Slight difference, maybe OT)

Chiefs @ Bills
I don't know about this one, in one hand we have a QB who threw 258 yards and 1 TD (Cassel/Chiefs) and in the other we have a QB who threw 195 yards and 3 TDs (Fitzpatrick/Bills). It really confuses me, but I would go with more yardage; I know more TDs are better... But more yardage means accuracy, and I love accurate!
Prediction: Chiefs (Back and forth, slight difference)

Ravens @ Eagles
I was watching ESPN today, and I saw the Vick "not getting hurt issue." I agree with Skip Bayless about being pummelled during big games, and this is a HUGE game. I mean facing a no-huddle, accurate QB and a D-line that'll sack you in every play! Mr. Vick, in my opinion, man up! Because it's a long ride, sir.
Prediction: Ravens (Comfortable win)

Saints @ Panthers
RGIII did what no one can do last season, beat the Saints in New Orleans. Then what will Cam do to the Saints in Charlotte? Make the Saints' season 0-2, that's what's he's gonna do!
Cam Newton suffered last week from what I call: the beginning of the season laziness. But in week #2, and in front of a huge crowd in the season opener (in Charlotte)... He'll prevail.
Prediction: Panthers (Huge win)

Cardinals @ Patriots
Nothing much to say here! Brady's still got it, and he wants an unbeaten season in my opinion... And he can do it!
Prediction: Patriots (They won't lets the Cards score much)

Vikings @ Colts
Andrew Luck is a promising QB, and being the #1 pick in the draft supports my point. But, the Colts have a defensive line that isn't capable of winning a high-school trophy! This team reminds of certain soccer teams who acquire great attacking players, but have horrible defenders. The Vikings will take advantage of this, definitely!
Prediction: Vikings (Slight difference)

Redskins @ Rams
RB S. Jackson is in great ship nowadays, as I heard from an interview during the pre-season that he only has 5% body fat. This will definitely rock the Redskins D, but even though; the Redskins have RGIII. Can the Rams D-line handle RGIII's passes, running, or even fakes? No they can't.
Prediction: Redskins (Interesting game)

Cowboys @ Seahawks
Romo did this, Romo did that, Romo was outstanding against the Giants!!! Complimenting anyone that much after any game will absolutely have a negative effect next time. In my opinion, Tony Romo is not in the top 10 QBs today. If he was, he would at least helped the Cowboys reach 1 SB game. But, let's give him time... Not that much of time, we'll see what can he do this season!
Prediction: Cowboys (Slight difference... 1 or 2 points)

Jets @ Steelers
Sanchez, bringing Tim Tebow had it's impact... On you! The guy is playing every game as if it was the Super Bowl, and that's good for the Jets. Beating the Bills by a 20 point deficit; wow! Passing 266 yards and 3 TDs; wow! Great calls on every down; wow!
Next-up, the Steelers; WHOA!!! Look out Sanchez, this team's D want to prove a point after what Peyton did to them last week. And I believe Polamalu is ready, and he wants to sack QBs.
Big Ben, will throw a lot of TD passes in the game.
Prediction: Steelers (Easy win... Expect sack by the Steelers D)

Titans @ Chargers
Some teams in the NFL seem happy about their status, positively or negatively! And the Titans is one of the negative-status teams. Chargers, they will charge alright!
Predictions: Chargers (Comfortable win)

Lions @ 49ers
One of the most interesting games this week! We have Alex Smith against Matt Stafford, and Megatron against Crabtree. Most NFL analysts believe that the 49ers are Sb bound, I won't totally disagree; but there are many contenders... In the NFC East to be exact! Hence, the 49ers will cruise past the Lions!
Prediction: 49ers (Easy win)


Monday: Sep-17th:-

Broncos @ Falcons
I believe the Georgia dome hasn't witnessed a regular season game as this one in a long time, the first game for Peyton manning on the road since returning form injury. Last week, Peyton Manning just kept playing mind games with the Steelers' D... I mean he was CRAZY (In a good way)! Also, let's keep in mind that "Matty-Ice" gave us an excellent show last week when manhandled the Chiefs; as he almost completed 300 yards passing with 3 TDs. It's gonna be a good one!
Prediction: Broncos (Game of the week)


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Saturday, September 15, 2012

Getafe CF vs FC Barcelona ... La Liga week 4

Getafe CF vs FC Barcelona

La Liga, week #4

Saturday: 15-Sep-'12

Coliseum Alfonso Pérez @ 18:00 (GMT)


Barcelona always dominated, but slip-ups against Getafe cost a lot:-
Barcelona, the best football team in world today! I believe when Getafe's players, fans, and management read this statement they know they don't have a chance to win. But, last season Getafe were one of the reasons Barça didn't win the league; in my opinion. I know that Madrid deserved the title last season, and proved it by defeating Barça at the Camp Nou. BUT, Getafe was 1 of 3 teams (along with Osasuna and Real Madrid) to defeat Barça last season. My point is, a Barça slip-up against Getafe is always interesting for La Liga.


No pressure on Barça before and after this match:-
Barça will play against Spartak Moscow next Wednesday in the UCL, and they'll play this match against Getafe prior to Real Madrid's game against Sevilla FC. With all due respect to Spartak Moscow, they can't and won't do what Rubin Kazan did in the 2009-10 season when they defeated Barça at the Camp Nou. So, Vilanova won't be under pressure during the Getafe game. Plus, he has a full squad... Excluding Sanchez.


Getafe, the team that beat Madrid in week #2:-
I have a belief in football, if team X defeats team Y and team Z defeats team X; this doesn't mean team Z will beat team Y. Real Madrid and Barcelona are always title contenders, and every team wants to be on the cover of tomorrow's papers. As I mentioned above, maybe Real Madrid are the "victims" this season.


Call-ups:-
Getafe CF... Moya, Codina; Alexis, Mane, M. Torres, Lopo Garcia, D. Abraham, Valera; Lacen, Sarabia, Gavilan, P. Leon, D. Castro, Barrada, Michel, Xavi Torres; Alvaro, Colunga, Paco Alcacer.

FC Barcelona... Valdes, Alves, Pique, Puyol, Macherano, Song, Cesc, Xavi, Villa, Messi, Thiago, Pinto, Bartra, Sergio B, Pedro, Montoya, Adriano, Tello, Deulofeu.

Prediction:-
Barça will win it, surely. But the question is that can Barça score lots of goals? Maybe, but a 3 goal deficit is reasonable!
Getafe Cf 1-4 FC Barcelona


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