NFL week 15 predictions

Week 15 predictions

Who'll go through?

Thursday, 15-Dec-2011:-

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Atlanta Falcons  ----> Falcons

Saturday, 17-Dec-2011:-

Dallas Cowboys @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers ----> Cowboys

Sunday, 18-Dec-2011:-

Miami Dolphins @ Buffalo Bills ----> Dolphins

Seattle Seahawks @ Chicago Bears ----> Bears

Carolina Panthers @ Houston Texans ----> Texans

Tennessee Titans @ Indianapolis Colts ----> Titans

Green Bay Packers @ Kansas City Chiefs ----> Packers

New Orleans Saints @ Minnesota Vikings ----> Saints

Washington Redskins @ New York Giants ----> Giants

Cincinnati Bengals @ St. Louis Rams ----> Bengals

Detroit Lions @ Oakland Raiders ----> Raiders

Cleveland Browns @ Arizona Cardinals ----> Cardinals

New England Patriots @ Denver Broncos ----> Broncos

New York Jets @ Philadelphia Eagles ----> Jets

Baltimore Ravens @ San Diego Chargers ----> Ravens

Monday, 19-Dec-2011:-

Pittsburgh Steelers @ San Francisco 49ers ----> 49ers

Analysis:-

Jaguars @ Falcons

Although the Jaguars nailed the Buccaneers last week (41-14), but this week it's way too complicated to win! The Falcons are strong when playing home (4-2), also they have the opportunity to reach the playoffs; as a win against the Jags will increase their tally to (9-5-0). Moreover, Matt Ryan is the Falcons' "upper hand" in this encounter; as the Boston College graduate is on fire lately.

Cowboys @ Buccaneers

Week 13 and 14 weren't lucky for the Cowboys, as they lost two consecutive game and the lead in the NFC East. But, Tampa Bay also weren't impressive; as they were thrashed by the "struggling" Jaguars last week (41-14). Hence, I know it is a close call and the Cowboys are under a lot of pressure, the Cowboys will prevail in this clash. The big question is, though, will DeMarco Murray's injury have a negative effect on the Cowboys?

Patriots @ Broncos

Both teams deserve to reach the playoffs, both teams have outstanding QBs, and both teams want to prove a point to NFL fans that they're still in the game. Tom Brady (Patriots) screwed up last week against the Redskins, but he also claimed top passer that game. Tim Tebow (Broncos) also claimed top passer against the Bears last week, and he also helped the Broncos clinch victory! I believe Denver's home field advantage will give them more determination as their situation, devision wise, is more critical than the Patriots'. Tebow... Man of the match!

Steelers @ 49ers

A classic "Monday Night Football" game, as two of the most outstanding teams in NFL history will collide! The Steelers didn't want this match to arrive while they are in this situation, as they could lose their joint top spot with Ravens; whilst the 49ers clinched the NFC West. It will be one of the most memorable NFL games in history... But, the 49ers will give the Ravens a little push to claim the AFC North!

Please have your say and share your thoughts in the comment box below.

Have a nice day, and happy holidays!

Serie A, Week 15

Serie A, Week 15

Sat: 10-Dec, Sun: 11-Dec, and Mon: 12-Dec

Saturday: 10-Dec-2011:-

Lecce vs Lazio ... Lazio

Siena vs Genoa ... Draw

Inter vs Fiorentina ... Inter

Palermo vs Cesena ... Palermo

Sunday: 11-Dec-2011:-

Atalanta vs Catania ... Atalanta

Bologna vs Milan ... Draw

Udinese vs Chievo ... Udinese

Cagliari vs Parma ... Draw

Novara vs Napoli ... Napoli

Monday: 12-dec-2011:-

Roma vs Juventus ... Juventus

Analysis:-

Inter vs Fiorentina

Although Fiorentina thrashed Roma 3-0 last week and Inter's performance hasn't been that impressive lately, and Inter's captain, Javier Zanetti, won't be available for this encounter (red carded against Udinese last week); I believe the Nerazzurri will win this match. Inter lost twice at home this past week to Udinese and CSKA Moscow respectively, but this week Ranieri will do whatever it takes to stop Delio Rossi's men. And if the Inter lost... I guess it's the last of the Grande Inter II.

Bologna vs Milan

Bologna competed against Juve this past Thursday in the Coppa Italia, and they fought until extra time. This indicates that the "Rossoblu" are capable of making life hard for the big teams; therefore, I believe this match will end in a draw even though Pato is back!

Roma vs Juventus

One of the most exciting matches in Italian football through history! Juventus, il bianconero, is back and wants to prove that they're on the right track by beating Roma at the Stadio Olimpico. This match, in particular, will be outstanding; yes, expect goals... A lot of goals! Even the Italian FA believe that too, as this match is at the same time as the Chelsea vs Man City game in the EPL. But, the big question is, will there be controversy in this epic battle? We'll find out Monday.

Please have your say and leave a comment bellow, share your thoughts and insights.

Have a pleasant FOOTBALL weekend.

Barclays English Premier League, Week 15

Barclays Premier League, Week 15

Games on Sat: 10-Dec, Sun: 11-Dec, and Mon: 12-Dec

Saturday: 10-Dec-2011:-

Arsenal vs Everton ... Arsenal

Bolton vs Aston Villa ... Draw

Liverpool vs QPR ... Liverpool

Manchester United vs Wolverhampton ... Man. United

WBA vs Wigan ... Wigan

Norwich vs Newcastle United ... Newcastle U.

Swansea vs Fulham ... Draw

Sunday: 11-Dec-2011:-

Sunderland vs Blackburn ... Sunderland

Stoke City vs Tottenham ... Draw

Monday: 12-Dec-2011:-

Chelsea vs Manchester City ... Man. City

Analysis:-

Arsenal vs Everton

Arsenal are unbeaten in the EPL since the loss in the North London Derby against Spurs on October 2nd, and their recent form is quite impressive in both domestic and Europe competitions. Regardless of their loss to Olympiacos in UCL, Arsenal will eventually ease past the "Toffees" in this showdown; and the recent visit of Arsenal legend Thierry Henry will give both players and fans the momentum to clinch victory.

Manchester United vs Wolverhampton

Knocked out of the big European competition, Nemanja Vidic's SERIOUS injury, lack of confidence in De Gea! Well, these are the top concerns that are itching the backs of the Red Devils' supporters. But, Wolverhampton won't be a concern as Man. United and Sir Alex will try their best to send a message to their fans that the recent elimination from Europe was just a miscalculation. In my opinion, the Red Devils will win it; even though, I see some back and forth action!

Chelsea vs Manchester City

Both teams were on the edge in midweek, as both were facing elimination from the UCL. Well, one team managed to go through (Chelsea, as first place); while the other won the match but its "rival" won also. Roberto Mancini promised the City faithful that he'll bring them back to the spotlight this season; but from the looks of it, that spotlight is missing. Yes they are first place in the EPL, and yes they can win the "domestic" treble this season; but, in my point of view, reaching, at least, the last eight in the UCL would satisfy the fans more. Villas-Boas shut his critics in the past week by the thrashing, both, Newcastle in the EPL and Valencia in the UCL with the same result (3-0). But that doesn't mean he'll be able to repeat it against a star studded side like the Citizens! From my experience in the Italian Calcio, Roberto Mancini ALWAYS won his matches when he gets eliminated from Europe. And this week he'll do the same!

Please have your say in the comment box below, and share your thoughts and predictions.

Have a nice FOTBALLING weekend!

El Clásico prediction (Saturday: 10-Dec-2011)

[Photo from Google]

Real Madrid CF vs FC Barcelona

Saturday: 10-Dec-2011

Estadio Santiago Bernabéu, Madrid

21:00 GMT (00:00 KSA)

My prediction:-

Winner: Real Madrid CF

Expected Result

Real Madrid CF (2-1) FC Barcelona

Please have your say in the comment box below, and share your predictions.

Have a nice day!

El Clásico

[Photo from Google]

Real Madrid CF vs FC Barcelona

Saturday: 10-Dec-2011

Estadio Santiago Bernabéu, Madrid

Week 16 of La Liga

Brief history (La Liga clashes):-

The two giants met 163 times in La Liga, were Real Madrid has the upper hand with 69 wins; on the other hand, Barcelona won 63 time. Whilst the matches that ended in a draw are 31. Real Madrid has a higher tally in goals, as they scored 267; whilst Barça are 15 goals far (252 goals).

Is the "Mou" factor working?:-

Florentino Perez, Real Madrid's president, lured Jose Mourinho (Mou) to the Bernabéu in order to win trophies. That happened instantly when Real Madrid actually beat Barça in the Copa de Rey final 1-0; but, when it comes to the other clashes... Mourinho failed. The first encounter was in La Liga at the Camp Nou (Barça's home field), and Pep Guardiola's men thrashed Real Madrid 5-0. The second encounter was in La Liga also, it was the second leg. of the league. The game ended 1-1 and it was just four days away from the Copa del Rey final which Real Madrid won 1-0. One week later, on April-27th-2011 to be exact, both teams met in the first leg. of the UEFA Champions League semi final. The 1st match was held at the Estadio Santiago Bernabéu, and Barça defeated Real Madrid 2-0. There was talk about conspiracy when Pepe was sent off, but UEFA kept its ruling and suspended Pepe for the 2nd leg. The 2nd leg. ended in a draw (1-1). during the month of August in 2011, the two giants clashed twice in the Spanish Super Cup. Barça won 5-4 on aggregate.

The question is: Is the Mourinho Factor Working? My answer is no! Unfortunately for Real Madrid fans, Jose Mourinho doesn't have a "magic stick". Also, acquiring superstars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Kaka, Benzema, Özil, and others doesn't mean winning trophies. Even with Mourinho as coach, we all saw the results against Barça (which, by the way, is the match that matters in La Liga; in my opinion). Mourinho faced Barcelona seven times (as Real Madrid coach), and he only won ONE. Does the "one" in Special One stand for this?

Please have your say in the comment box below, I'll be back with my prediction for Saturdays main event soon.

Have a nice day!

Juventus vs Bologna (Coppa Italia, Thursday: 8-Dec-2011)

Juventus vs Bologna

Round-of-16 of Coppa Italia

Thursday: 8-Dec-2011, Nouvo Stadio di Juventus

20:00 GMT (23:00 KSA)

Juve is back!:-

Juventus' great form lately caught the eye of many football supporters worldwide, I am not saying that "Il Bianconero" is an up-and-rising team; on the contrary, Juve are back. And when I say back, I mean "winning trophies" back.

Another controversy?:-

Lately in Italy, last Tuesday to be exact, there have been accusations that referees in Italy are favoring Juve. For example, the penalty kick that was awarded to "La Vecchia Signora" didn't exist; that's what the papers said. In my opinion, many teams around the world lately have been awarded a "hand" by match officials; I'm not saying it's match-fixing. No! What I mean is, in every league in the world some referees add a couple of seconds to the remaining time, give non-existing fouls/penalty kicks, or even rule the other team offside when the play is clearly "safe." Bottom line is, Juventus have made crucial changes and now they're "gaining profit from their investment."

Prediction:-

Juve will win by a comfortable margin, they have a good squad. With Del Piero's recent come back from injury; I believe "Il Bianconero" will ease past Bologna. Winner: Juventus.

Please have your say in the comment box below, what do YOU think will happen?

Have a nice day!

UEFA Champions League predictions (Match Day 6, Wed: 7-Dec-2011)

Wednesday: 7-Dec-2011, Match Day 6

Predictions:-

Villareal vs Napoli ... Draw

Manchester City vs Bayern Munchen ... Man. City

LOSC Lille vs Trabzonspor ... Lille

Inter vs CSKA Moscow ... Draw

Benfica vs O. Galati ... Benfica

D. Zagreb vs O. Lyonnais ... Lyon

Ajax vs Real Madrid ... R. Madrid

The main event...

FC Basel vs Manchester United

Sir Alex Ferguson's Manchester United haven't felt under pressure in a UCL group stage since the 2005-06 season, therefore the "Red Devils" need to handle this pressure since they are last season's finalists. On the other hand, let's not forget that FC Basel held Man. United in a thrilling 3-3 draw at Old Trafford (which I believe Basel should've won). Nevertheless, these type of matches shows us why some teams are simply "big"; and I believe Sir Alex won't take the risk and attack Basel from the beginning. Remember, a draw will see Man. United through to the next round; but as second place. Prediction: Draw.


Please have your say in the comment box below, and share your predictions.


Have a nice day!

UEFA Champions League predictions (Match Day 6, Tue: 6-Dec-2011)

Tuesday: 6-December-2011, Match Day 6


Genk vs Bayer Leverkusen ... Leverkusen
Olympiacos vs Arsenal ... Arsenal
Dortmund vs Marseille ... Draw
FC Porto vs Zenit ... FC Porto
APOEL vs Shakhtar ... Draw
FC Barcelona vs BATE ... FC Barcelona
Plzen vs AC Milan ... Draw


The main event:-

Chelsea FC vs Valencia CF

Chelsea needs this victory more than any other match in the season, specially if Leverkusen drew or lost against Genk; this means Chelsea FC will clinch top spot. On the other hand, Valencia has two ways to qualify for the second round (round-of-16); either win or draw 1-1 and above (i.e. 2-2, 3-3... etc.). Because if the match ended 0-0, Chelsea will qualify since they drew 1-1 at the Estadio Mestalla. My prediction is... Chelsea FC.

Please have your say and share your predictions in the comments box below.

Have a nice day!

With Robert Pires

Robert Pires and I at the Parc de Princes, Paris

Paris St. germain (2-1) OGC Nice

Wednesday: 21-Sep-2011

*NEW* NFL predictions

Hi everyone, this is an extra treat for you sports fans. Each week, I'll predict the results in NFL games.

I began predicting since week 11, and, I tell you, I'm actually good at this. For example, there were 14 games in week 11 and I got 9 right. Then, in week 12, I got 11 out of 16 correct. My ratio in week 13 dropped, but still I know the good teams from the "not good" teams.

My predictions come after long analysis to every team's situation and performance home and on the road, so let's take a look at my predictions for week 14...

- Browns @ Steelers: The Steelers' performance this season is outstanding, they are 9-3 in total (5-1 home). The Browns are suffering lately as they are 4-8 in total (1-4 road). Prediction: Steelers. (By far)

- Buccaneers @ Jaguars: Both teams lost on home turf in week 13. The Jags' total is 3-9 (2-4 home), and the Bucs' total is 4-8 (1-4 road). Prediction: Jaguars. (Close call/Slight edge)

- Chiefs @ Jets: With the Jets' performance on the road last week against the Redskins, and their outstanding 5-1 home record; I believe they're a tough side to handle. The Chiefs, on the other hand, defeated the Bears (who before their match had the same home record as the Jets 5-1); it's going to be an interesting encounter, but... Prediction: Jets. (close call/Slight edge)

- Texans @ Bengals: The Texans total is an outstanding 9-3 (4-2 road), and I've always underestimated them; but they always prove me wrong. Whilst the Bengals are suffering lately, they hold a good total of 7-5 (3-2 home). This is tough, but I'll go with... Prediction: Texans. (Close call)

- Patriots @ Redskins: A total of 9-3 (4-2 road) is held by the Patriots, and a total of 4 straight wins makes them favorites to clinch victory. But can the Redskins, who have a 4-8 total (2-4 home) surprise us this wee? I don't think so. Prediction: Patriots. (Comfortable edge)

- Falcons @ Panthers:  Although Atlanta Falcons' total of 7-5 (3-3 road) is way better than the Carolina Panthers' 4-8 total (2-4), I believe Carolina's outstanding performance last week against the Buccaneers will be witnessed again in week 14. Prediction: Panthers. (Close call/Slight edge)

- Eagles @ Dolphins: The game of the "equals", both teams share the same total of 4-8. Also, Miami's 3-3 home total is equal to Phliy's road total. But since this game is in Miami, I'll go with... Prediction: Dolphins. (Close call)

- Saints @ Titans: The Saints' performances have been outstanding lately, they hold a good 9-3 total (3-3 road) and they are on top of the NFC South. The Titans are also a tough force to compete with, with a 7-5 total (4-2 home) they can/will cause problems to Brees and Co. But, I would never scratch off the 2009 champions! Prediction: Saints. (Slight edge)

- Colts @ Ravens: Colts' total is 0-12, and the Ravens' total is 9-3 (6-0 home). Enough said! Prediction: Ravens. (By far)

- Vikings @ Lions: Vikings' total is disastrous 2-10 (1-5 road), and the Lions' total is good 7-5 (3-3 home). There are no surprises in this encounter since the Lions want to clinch second spot in the NFC North. Prediction: Lions. (Comfortable edge)

- Bears @ Broncos: Another encounter between "equals", but the Broncos have Tebow as an upper hand. Prediction: Broncos. (Comfortable edge)

- 49ers @ Cardinals: San Francisco 49ers are back in business, with their 10-2 total (4-1 road) they can compete against any team; including Green Bay Packers. Arizona Cardinals have a 5-7 total (3-2 home), and they defeated the Cowboys last week; but they don't have a chance this week! Prediction: 49ers. (Comfortable edge)

- Bills @ Chargers: With their thrashing to the Jaguars last week, the Chargers will be hard to defeat this week; especially with their 3-3 home record. The Bills are not doing good on the road (1-5), so this is obvious! Prediction: Chargers. (By far)

- Raiders @ Packers: 12-0 total, a perfect record! Enough said; even the rising Raiders can match the Packers. Prediction: Packers. (By far)

- Giants @ Cowboys: This is what it's all about, the winner of this encounter will clinch the NFC East (at least by 80%). The Cowboys have a good home record (5-1), and they have Tony Romo who's expected to be "the next big thing". The Giants are 3-3 on the road, and they caused problems to the "perfect" Packers. Prediction: Cowboys. (Slight edge)

- Rams @ Seahawks: The Seahawks ruined my predictions last week, they started the week by manhandling the Eagles on Thursday. And the Rams were "rammed" by the 49ers 26-0. Prediction: Seahawks. (Comfortable edge)

Please join me, and place your predictions in the commentary box below. Have a nice day!

Fulham 1-0 Liverpool (Monday: 5-Dec-2011, Craven Cottage)

[Clint Dempsey of Fulham FC (middle) celebrating his goal against Liverpool FC. Photo from kooora.com]

On Monday, Dec-5th-2011,  Fulham faced the "Reds" Liverpool in a mid-week match. Kenny Dalglish's Liverpool side wanted to continue their "London invasion" after defeating Chelsea FC on Tuesday: Nov-29th; but they were pulled down to earth by the "American Dream" Clint Dempsey.

Analysis and point of view:

Spearing's dismissal from the match was the turning point, also Andy Carroll's lack of goal scoring lately have put his boss under pressure since Liverpool's style-of-play is the "old school English" type (run the flank, and cross the ball to the striker). Martin Jol's side were very determined, in my opinion, with players like Dembele and Dempsey in his squad; they can achieve more. Although Duff's injured, but what I witnessed last Monday was a determined Fulham side that have a good goal keeper (Mark Schwarzer) and powerful center backs (Hangeland and Senderos).

What I liked about Fulham's goal is the positioning of Dempsey, as he perfectly broke the offside trap and caught Reina "silly" after fumbling the ball. After Fulham's loss to Spurs, they managed to away draws (against Sunderland and Arsenal) respectively; and on Monday, they defeated the "mighty" Liverpool.

Is this the "wake up call" for Jol's side? What will Dalglish do in order to stay in the top 4 zone?

Tune in next time for analysis of other matches. Have a nice day!

Inter 0-1 Udinese (Sat: 3-Dec-2011, Stadio G. Meazza)

[Mehdi Beatia (left) tackles Diego Milito (right). Photo from Google] 

On Saturday, December 3rd-2011, Inter faced a tough Udinese side who were willing to join AC Milan in top spot in the Serie A. Here is the starting lineup of both teams:-

Inter (4-4-2): Julio Cesar; J. Zanetti (c), W. Samuel, A. Ranocchia, C. Chivu; R. Alvarez, T. Motta, E. Cambiasso, M. Faraoni; G. Pazzini, D. Milito. Coach: C. Ranieri.

Udinese (4-2-3-1): S. Handanovic; M. isla, M. Benatia, D. Ferronetti, Danilo; D. Basta, K. Asamoah; G. Torje, P. Armero, G. Pinzi; A. Di Natale. Coach: F. Guidolin.

Point of view and analysis...

As we all know, Inter's form lately hasn't been that amazing. Since Jose Mourinho left the nerazzurri helm after clinching the treble in late May-2010, Massimo Moratti wanted reduce the amount of money he pays to, both, players and managers. Hence, Inter couldn't find its way back to the top as if someone blew their torch in the middle of a cave. Although Inter is facing too many problems in the field, let's not forget that there are many key players whom are injured (i.e. Sneijder, Maicon, and Forlan).

That brings me to this match, Udinese's form this season is incredible and Francesco Guidolin found a way to "pump up" his team even with the departure of Alexis Sanchez. Antonio (Toto) Di Natale proved to the world that he's a world class striker that deserves recognition from UEFA and FIFA to earn individual awards. During the course of the match, Toto and his teammates caused problems to Inter's defense. Isla, who is wanted by many big teams in Europe, also made an impact by scoring the only goal in the match. Javier Zanetti's dismissal summarizes the bad form that Inter are in; "Il Capitano" was only sent off one time (before this match) during a Coppa Italia match against Parma in the late 90's. 

All in all, Udinese truly deserves to win on Saturday; and they proved that they're worthy of being on top of the Serie A mountain. But can they compete against the mighty forces that are Juventus and AC Milan?

On the other hand, Inter are in deep trouble with only 14 points in 12 matches; and they still have matches against AC Milan and Lazio. Let's not forget there's a whole round (il ritorno) left!

That's all regarding the Inter-Udinese match, stay tuned for analysis of other matches. Have a nice day!  

Welcome to my blog :D

Hi all,

Mohammed here, and this is my official blog. In here, you'll find every analysis of the most important football (soccer) games. I'll provide my own analysis and point of view every Monday or Tuesday regarding the EPL, La Liga, and Serie A. Also, I'll be sharing my point of view regarding the top 3 teams in the German Bundes Liga and Ligue 1, along with pre-game analysis to the UEFA Champions League.

Welcome to my world :D