The first Merseyside vs Manchester match since the Hillsborough report was always going to be a passionate affair but there were other games as well! Especially when you add in 'Handshakegate' City entertained Arsenal while Chelsea tried to hold onto their lead.
Formation - 4-1-2-1-2
GK- Mark Schwarzer- Had Schwarzer not been in such imperious form then Fulham may not well have held on against a creative Wigan side that began tearing Fulham apart as the final whistle approached, but the Aussie Guardian stood firm and would not be beaten.
RB- Rafael- A constant threat down the Liverpool flank for Manchester United capped off with a realisation that this man is in fact, Brazillian after all. A fantastic curler with ample finesse rounded off a stunning display.
CB- Jan Vertonghen- The Belgian man has a lot to live up to after all the hype in the Dutch league. He showed these admirers were correct with some excellent surging runs and even showed off his well rounded capabilities to play anywhere on the back four when he switched to left back to free up Gareth Bale.
CB- James Perch- Yet another player who can ply his trade in multiple positions, Perch began in defence before advancing to midfield enforcer then back to centre half, without this man Newcastle may well have lost their clean sheet.
LB- Ashley Cole- Ever roaming and ever continuing to display that Ryan Bertrand has an almighty task to displace one of the best Left backs in world football. His runs were a constant threat to Stoke and eventually paid off with a cheeky goal.
CDM- Mohammad Diame- The first lynchpin in this weeks TOTW. Diame was the hum coming from the Hammers' engine room and made it difficult for their opponents to get any free time on the ball, a role not many people notice but without him the West Ham midfield would look undoubtedly shakier.
CDM- Marouane Fellaini- Yet again the Belgian was constantly over the backs of the Swansea defence and unbeatable in the air, the power of the 'fro provided a somewhat controversial assist and another goal for his tally.
LAM- Gaston Ramirez- Southampton came alight this weekend and it had a large dependance on this man. He was at the centre of everything for the South Coast side, with constant threat and pinpoint passing.
RAM- Kevin Mirallas- The third of 4 Belgians in this team of the week and one of many Evertonians, Mirallas' pace was worrying Swansea all afternoon and only the woodwork denied this young man 2 goals opposed to his one.
CF- Romelu Lukaku- The final Belgian and an increasing talent, fast, strong and as on show on saturday, a great shooter. Romelu Lukaku picked up many admirers at RSC Anderlecht but if he continues as he did against Reading then he'll pick up many English ones too.
ST- Rickie Lambert- The Veteran, God amongst men returns and in the Premier league, he is already showing he can score just as many goals as he did the previous two season for the Saints. If this man had some more pace he would be the ultimate striker, as it is he does incredibly well with what pace he has and has some incredible ball control and vision, holding up play like the experienced player he is. To round off his display he got 2 well struck goals to add to this GAM's tally.
Subs- Anichebe, Cazorla, Howard, Clyne, Mata, Nolan, Fletcher
Manager- Nigel Adkins
Monday, 24 September 2012
Tuesday, 18 September 2012
Champions League - Group Stage Preview
It seems not long since we saw Chelsea hoist the trophy over their heads as Champions but, here we are, another year, another season and that means the best Footballing competition in the world will return. This year will, yet again, see some of the best clashes in World Football. Ladies and Gentlemen, get ready... The Champions League is back!
Starting off in the group stages, we will preview and review each stage of the competition as it progresses.
So we begin with Group A-
1-FC Porto
2-Dynamo Kiev
3-Paris Saint Germain
4-Dinamo Zagreb
1- Porto, one of only a few Portugese sides worth their salt in Europe, have a fairly tough group. Especially now they have lost their main threat in Hulk to Zenit for 50 million Euros. Porto will have to rely on Varela, Jackson Martinez and Joao Moutinho to provide the attacking flair required now. The hardest challenge is likely to be both games against Parisians, Paris Saint Germain who have never had such potential to decimate opposition. Other than that I can see Porto holding their own at home and providing a tough side to beat away from home.
Expected Progression - Round of 16
Stadium - Estadio do Dragao (Cap. 50,399)
Manager - V.Pereira
Key Player - Joao Moutinho
2- Dynamo Kiev, they're becoming a rather frequent player in Europe nowadays, the problem they have is quality. They have a tough ground for opponents to play at given the temperatures in Kiev but away from home they will struggle. They have some good quality players; Taye Taiwo may be wanting to prove himself plus new signings Miguel Veloso and Niko Kranjcar will make up a talented midfield. They may be able to pick up a win against Porto in Kiev.
Expected Progression - Group Stage (Europa League)
Stadium - Olimpiyskiy National Sports Complex (Cap. 70,050)
Manager - Y.Semin
Key Player - Miguel Veloso
3- Paris Saint Germain... The new big boys in the transfer market, buying who they want no matter what the cost, these will be a tough side for most teams to beat now and have Zlatan Ibrahimovic leading the line up front. Lavezzi providing the width and Pastore the killer pass, will surely create a goal happy side this season. Add Gregory Van der Wiel to an already solid backline and you have a threatening side. The toughest challenge will be holding their own away from home in Zagreb and Kiev where challenges will be harsh and brutal but I predict PSG will come out on top of their group.
Expected Progression - Quarter Finals
Stadium - Parc des Princes (Cap. 48,712)
Manager - C.Ancelotti
Key Player - Javier Pastore
4- Dinamo Zagreb are the most successful side in Croatian Football ever. The Croatians are another side that will be difficult to go to and try and play football at. However the side is not particularly up to top flight European standards and will have troubles defending away from home. At home they will hope the home crowd becomes a twelfth man and become a major player. Unfortunately for such a prestigious side in Croatia I'm afraid I cant see them getting past the group stage.
Expected Progression - Group Stage
Stadium - Maksimir Stadion (Cap. 38,923)
Manager - A.Cacic
Key Player - Domagoj Vida
Fixtures and Predictions
18 Sep
Zagreb vs Porto --- PORTO WIN
PSG vs Kiev --- PSG WIN
3 Oct
Kiev vs Zagreb --- KIEV WIN
Porto vs PSG --- DRAW
24 Oct
Porto vs Kiev --- PORTO WIN
Zagreb vs PSG --- PSG WIN
6 Nov
PSG vs Zagreb --- PSG WIN
Kiev vs Porto --- DRAW
21 Nov
Porto vs Zagreb --- PORTO WIN
Kiev vs PSG --- PSG WIN
4 Dec
Zagreb vs Kiev --- KIEV WIN
PSG vs Porto --- PSG WIN
Predicted Table-
1- Paris-Saint-Germain
2- FC Porto
3- Dynamo Kiev
4- Dinamo Zagreb
Starting off in the group stages, we will preview and review each stage of the competition as it progresses.
So we begin with Group A-
1-FC Porto
2-Dynamo Kiev
3-Paris Saint Germain
4-Dinamo Zagreb
1- Porto, one of only a few Portugese sides worth their salt in Europe, have a fairly tough group. Especially now they have lost their main threat in Hulk to Zenit for 50 million Euros. Porto will have to rely on Varela, Jackson Martinez and Joao Moutinho to provide the attacking flair required now. The hardest challenge is likely to be both games against Parisians, Paris Saint Germain who have never had such potential to decimate opposition. Other than that I can see Porto holding their own at home and providing a tough side to beat away from home.
Expected Progression - Round of 16
Stadium - Estadio do Dragao (Cap. 50,399)
Manager - V.Pereira
Key Player - Joao Moutinho
Expected Progression - Group Stage (Europa League)
Stadium - Olimpiyskiy National Sports Complex (Cap. 70,050)
Manager - Y.Semin
Key Player - Miguel Veloso
Expected Progression - Quarter Finals
Stadium - Parc des Princes (Cap. 48,712)
Manager - C.Ancelotti
Key Player - Javier Pastore
Expected Progression - Group Stage
Stadium - Maksimir Stadion (Cap. 38,923)
Manager - A.Cacic
Key Player - Domagoj Vida
18 Sep
Zagreb vs Porto --- PORTO WIN
PSG vs Kiev --- PSG WIN
3 Oct
Kiev vs Zagreb --- KIEV WIN
Porto vs PSG --- DRAW
24 Oct
Porto vs Kiev --- PORTO WIN
Zagreb vs PSG --- PSG WIN
6 Nov
PSG vs Zagreb --- PSG WIN
Kiev vs Porto --- DRAW
21 Nov
Porto vs Zagreb --- PORTO WIN
Kiev vs PSG --- PSG WIN
4 Dec
Zagreb vs Kiev --- KIEV WIN
PSG vs Porto --- PSG WIN
Predicted Table-
1- Paris-Saint-Germain
2- FC Porto
3- Dynamo Kiev
4- Dinamo Zagreb
Final Whistle - This group will be a good watch, if only for the football you are likely to see from PSG and Porto. Kiev and Zagreb have potential to cause an upset but I dont expect anything major this time, expecially the Ukranians with some astute signings, but I won't be expecting any surprises from them.
Next up in this Champions League group stage is Group B. This one contains the first British team in these previews, Arsenal.
1-Arsenal
2-FC Schalke 04
3-Olympiacos
4-Montpellier Herault
1- Arsenal, the first British side in our previews. They haven't bought in many new players but the players they have bought have been good purchases especially Santi Cazorla. The Gunners have started off slowly in the Premier league but have been rock solid at the back due to the new assistant coach there. Arsenal should come out easy group winners with the only tough fixture the away leg to Schalke where Klaas Jan Huntelaar will punish any mistakes. A favourable draw in the Round of 16 may see them make the quarter finals but I see it being a step too far for the Gunners.
Expected Progression - Round of 16
Manager - A.Wenger
Stadium - Emirates Stadium (Cap. 60,361)
Key Player - Santi Cazorla
2- Schalke have a formidable team with proven talent and youngsters alike. Klaas Jan Huntelaar went quietly about his business last year with all hype pointed towards Mario Gomez. Huntelaar was the Bundesliga's top scorer and is going to be tough for any side to handle. Youngsters Draxler and Holtby are providing flair in attacking midfield positions and Papadopoulous holds the line at the back of a 4-2-3-1 formation. However I predict that Schalke will run into trouble away from home especially at the Emirates and in Greece. Therefore I predict they will finish 2nd to a resilient Arsenal side in this group.
Expected Progression - Round of 16
Manager - H.Stevens
Stadium - Veltins Arena (Cap. 61,673)
Key player - Klaas Jan Huntelaar
3- Olympiacos, the Greek champions, have lost their most valuable asset in Kevin Mirallas. Their secret weapon is likely to come at the feet of young Giannis Fetfatzidis who's pace and skill have drawn comparisons to Hazard and Messi. This Greek variant will bring plenty of service to Djebbour up front. Olympiacos will struggle away from home apart from potentially Montpellier, However Olympiacos traditionally take points off the Gunners at home. The Greeks will have a hard time cracking both the German and British sides and therefore I predict they will again falter at the Group stage and scrap to qualify for the Europa League at best.
Expected Progression - Group Stage (Europa League)
Manager - L.Jardim
Stadium - Kiraiskakis Stadium (Cap. 32,115)
Key player - Giannis Fetfatzidis
4- The unexpected champions of France, Montpellier were surprisingly successful due to a fantastic partnership between Belhanda and Giroud with the latter becoming the top scorer in France and a solid defence led by Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa, their young captain. However Montpellier sold Giroud to Arsenal, so expect an... unsavoury reception in France for Arsenal. Without Giroud, Belhanda has very few outlets and Montpellier have no proven goal scorer. Thanks to these reasons I can't see Montpellier being much of a threat to anyone this season as shown by their mid table position in Ligue 1 for the moment. Herault and Olympiacos will fight it out for the Europa League Qualification.
Expected Progression - Group Stage
Manager - R.Girard
Stadium - Stade de la Mosson (Cap. 32,900)
Key Player - Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa
Fixtures and Predictions
18 Sep
Montpellier vs Arsenal --- ARSENAL WIN
Olympiacos vs Schalke --- SCHALKE WIN
3 Oct
Schalke vs Montpellier --- SCHALKE WIN
Arsenal vs Olympiacos --- ARSENAL WIN
24 Oct
Arsenal vs Schalke --- ARSENAL WIN
Montpellier vs Olympiacos --- MONTPELLIER WIN
6 Nov
Schalke vs Arsenal --- SCHALKE WIN
Olympiacos vs Montpellier --- OLYMPIACOS WIN
21 Nov
Arsenal vs Montpellier --- ARSENAL WIN
Schalke vs Olympiacos --- SCHALKE WIN
4 Dec
Montpellier vs Schalke --- DRAW
Olympiacos vs Arsenal --- ARSENAL WIN
Predicted Finish
1- Arsenal
2- FC Schalke
3- Montpellier
4- Olympiacos
Final Whistle- With a British side in, this will be one of the groups that you can't see many upsets in. It will be worth a fair watch due to Schalke's lethality and some exciting youngsters getting a go. Watch to see if Olympiacos can pick up that home win against Arsenal.
Group C holds the minnow for which we will show undying support for throughout the competition- RSC ANDERLECHT!
1- AC Milan
2- RSC Anderlecht
3- Malaga
4- Zenit St Petersburg
1- AC Milan; once the undisputed champions of Italy, are nothing more of a shell of what they once were. No Ibra and no Thiago Silva. All hopes rely on Pato, El Sharaawy and Pazzini up front. The somewhat debatable temperament of Kevin Prince-Boateng only serves as another thorn in the side of the Rosoneri. With poor performances in the Serie A Milan will struggle in this seasons Champions League barring some magic. The San Siro will Milan's best bet for success this time and hoping that teams don't dismantle a weak back line that focuses on Mexes' fitness. However, Robinho will be awkward for most teams but can he carry Milan? I would think not.
Expected Progression - Round of 16
Stadium - San Siro (Cap. 80,018)
Manager - M.Allegri
Key Player - Phillippe Mexes
2- RSC Anderlecht, the blog's selected minnow for this Champions League. The Belgian Champions and a very diverse team. They have a rather large lad up front in the form of the prolific Dieumerci Mbokani! The 6ft 1inch striker hails from the Democratic Republic of Congo, impressive we must admit. Anderlecht hold a very creative and pacey midfield featuring Argentinian Matias Suarez, the constant creative front for Anderlecht and he tends to run the attacking portion of the field with quick feet and darting runs. A Serbian winger in Jovanovic the former Liverpool man, and the other winger, Sacha Kljestan, who is very quick, make up the wingmen. The lynch pin holding midfielder is Lucas Biglia, he is the key to a good Anderlecht performance. Anderlecht are quite obviously the team to beat in this years tournament and many teams will find it hard to get past the class keeper in the form of Proto!
We hope that our minnows will be able to advance to the knockout stages but realistically the Belgians may come up against some tough teams. It is entirely possible that the best they can hope for is a draw or two.
Expeted Progression - Group Stage (Europa League)
Stadium - Constant Vanden Stock Stadium (Cap. 28,763)
Manager - J.Van Den Brom
Key Player - Matias Suarez
3- Malaga are the unknown spenders of Europe, however this preseason they failed to buy any players and in fact sold their most dependable and dangerous player in Santi Cazorla to Arsenal in the midst of a financial dispute. Malaga are new to the Champions League and may be overwhelmed by the occasion. Malaga is a tough place to go but I can't see the new boys advancing past the group stage without their talismanic architect Cazorla. The frontline also looks a bit lightweight after the departure of Salomon Rondon to Russia so you'd be hard pushed to find a recognised scorer in this side. I will expect them to pick up some points at home and to give a good fight away but the lack of experience and few household names, I can't see them advancing far.
Expected Progression - Group Stage
Stadium - La Rosaleda (Cap. 29,500)
Manager - M.Pellegrini
Key Player - Isco
4- Zenit St Petersburg; the fourth seed of the group. This is usually meant to mean they are the worst side of the group, but in this case I have to say that Zenit is the best side of this group. The addition of Hulk and Axel Witsel will only seek to prove it. With creative prescence in the shape of Portugese Danny and now Axel Witsel; Aleksandr Kerzhakov will have plenty to feed off and with his ability will likely convert any chances that fall his way. The Russians have steel at the back with Bruno Alves always a formidable opponent in the air while Anyukov and Criscito will roam up the pitch providing support for attacking players. I predict Zenit to comfortably beat most of those in this group and the Russian champions should win it convincingly.
Expected Progression - Round of 16
Stadium - Petrovsky Stadium (Cap. 21,570)
Manager - L.Spaletti
Key Player - Hulk
Fixtures and Predictions
18 Sep
Milan vs Anderlecht --- DRAW
Malaga vs Zenit --- ZENIT WIN
3 Oct
Anderlecht vs Malaga --- ANDERLECHT WIN
Zenit vs Milan --- ZENIT WIN
24 Oct
Zenit vs Anderlecht --- ZENIT WIN
Malaga vs Milan --- MILAN WIN
6 Nov
Anderlecht vs Zenit ---DRAW
Milan vs Malaga --- MILAN WIN
21 Nov
Anderlecht vs Milan ---ANDERLECHT WIN
Zenit vs Malaga --- ZENIT WIN
4 Dec
Malaga vs Anderlecht --- ANDERLECHT WIN
Milan vs Zenit --- ZENIT WIN
Predicted Table-
1- Zenit St Petersburg
2- RSC Anderlecht
3- AC Milan
4- Malaga CF
Final Whistle- With our minnows in this group we will be watching this intently, cheering them on every step of the way, but with the major additions Zenit have made they will certainly be worth a watch as they attempt to decimate all opposition. This will also be a fun group to watch as we gaze at what is possibly the worst Milan side in many years. Up the Purple and Whites!
Welcome to Group D; the Group of Death! 4 Champions joined together in one group. Only 2 can proceed. Who will it be?
1- Real Madrid
2- Manchester City
3- Borussia Dortmund
4- Ajax
1- The Spanish champions may finally have found a group that will prove tricky to get out of for a change. When you add to this a very below par start to the La Liga campaign, they may find it tough. The experience and talent in the Madrid side should get them out on top and the Santiago Bernabeu is a tough place for even the mighty Barcelona. Expect Ronaldo to be raring to go to prove himself against the best of the best. The toughest test Madrid will face is probably an away tie at Manchester City. The English champions are unbeaten in League fixtures here since 2010. The other away clashes will prove tough as well with each side champions. However a vast amount of experience and The Special One at the helm will see Madrid top the group.
Expected Progression - Semi-Final
Stadium - Santiago Bernabeu (Cap. 85,454)
Manager - Jose Mourinho
Key Player - Cristiano Ronaldo
2- The Mighty Manchester City! My team, and champions of England and Wales. Unbeaten at home in the league for well over a year and a side matched by the best of the best. Its rather unfortunate therefore that Manchester City have drawn 3 champions in their group of death. With Roberto Mancini at the helm the blues gained their first ever Premier League Trophy. Carlos Tevez has returned triumphantly to the fold and been a huge influence in the past few games for City, chasing down otherwise lost causes to great effect. I predict that Manchester City will be formidable at home and incredibly hard to match. The hardest challenge will arise when my blues travel to the Bernabeu on the first day to an incredible Madrid side filled with talent. City haven't looked at their best so far and will need to improve on their league start. But I will also be expecting the Dortmund away game to be a tricky task. Unfortunately I can't see my beloved City pipping Madrid to top spot in this group but I expect them to advance to the next stage in the Champions league, assuming players like David Silva and Sergio Aguero can return to top form.
Expected Progression - Quarter-Finals
Stadium - Etihad Stadium (Cap. 47,726)
Manager - Roberto Mancini
Key Player - Sergio Aguero
3- Borussia Dortmund, conquerors of the terrors of Germany, Bayern Munich, and champions of the Bundesliga. Not a mean feat by any stretch. With talent such as Lewandowski and Gotze up front with Hummels and Subotic in defence, its no wonder why they won the Bundesliga. The Signal Iduna Park is a huge stadium and is incredibly noisy when full so expect a resilient and difficult side to match in an away clash. As talented as this team is I believe they would advance out of any other group with ease, but this is no ordinary group and, even with all of the talent involved in this side. Unfortunately I have to say the German Champions won't progress past the group stage this year. I expect them to qualify for the Europa League and to challenge for that particular title.
Expected Progression - Group Stage (Europa League)
Stadium - Westfalenstadion (Cap. 80,720)
Manager - J.Klopp
Key Player - Mario Gotze
4- Ajax, ever the champions of Holland and a trophy cabinet filled to the brim, will find it difficult this year, it won't be from the occasion though. Ajax have an incredible Champions League pedigree, it is just the talent of opponent that will see Ajax struggle to register even a few points this year. Last year they beat Manchester United at Old Trafford which isn't easy but the Bernabeu, Signal Iduna and Etihad stadiums will be fortresses this time round. Ajax do have class in their ranks even with the departure of Van Der Wiel to PSG in the summer. Ryan Babel can score screamers on his day and the Champions League is his regular place to do them, so the other champions will need to watch out.
Expected Progression - Group Stage
Stadium - Amsterdam Arena (Cap. 52,342)
Manager - F.De Boer
Key Player - Cristian Eriksen
Fixtures and Predictions
18 Sep
Madrid vs City --- MADRID WIN
Dortmund vs Ajax --- DORTMUND WIN
3 Oct
Ajax vs Madrid --- MADRID WIN
City vs Dortmund --- CITY WIN
24 Oct
Dortmund vs Madrid --- DRAW
Ajax vs City --- CITY WIN
6 Nov
Madrid vs Dortmund --- MADRID WIN
City vs Ajax --- CITY WIN
21 Nov
City vs Madrid --- DRAW
Ajax vs Dortmund --- DORTMUND WIN
4 Dec
Madrid vs Ajax --- MADRID WIN
Dortmund vs City --- DORTMUND WIN
Predicted Finish
1- Real Madrid
2- Manchester City
3- Borussia Dortmund
4- Ajax
Final Whistle- Definitely a group for everyone to watch, with 4 major players in European football all joined in one group. If Manchester City fail to qualify, it should be Dortmund that take the second spot. You shouldn't even think of missing such quality as Aguero, Tevez, Ronaldo, Ozil, Gotze, Hummels and Eriksen all put together on one field of battle, watch this space. I'd say City will just pip Dortmund.
Reigning Champions Chesea return to defend their title in Group E, joined by Ukranian side Shakhtar, Italian unbeaten Champions Juventus and Danish side Nordsjaelland. Can Roberto Di Matteo mastermind a successful campaign yet again?
1- Chelsea
2- Shakhtar Donetsk
3- Juventus
4- Nordsjaelland
1- Can Roberto Di Matteo and his strengthened Chelsea squad mount another challenge for the Cup? Summer spending to the tune of £90million suggests they mean business; The Hazard Bros, Marin, Oscar, Azpilicueta and Moses add to an already packed squad. Didier Drogba has left but will Fernando Torres 'hear the drums' and fire in the vital goals that the Ivorian has left behind? We think they can expect to top the group, but it'll be tough at times, Shakhtar and Juventus will be very trick places to go and they may only pick up a draw or two there, but expect them to win the rest of their matches.
Expected Progression - Quarter Final
Stadium - Stamford Bridge (Cap. 41,837)
Manager - R.Di Matteo
Key Player - Eden Hazard
2- A club policy that means the squad is made up nearly as many Brazilians as it is homegrown players. They kept hold of their key players during the transfer window, fending off interest from Tottenham for Willian. As a result, the skill levels are sky high and stubborn home form will challenge any visitors to Donetsk. We predict that it could come down to a battle between them and Juve for the 2nd Qualifying place. This time, they may just be beaten, but they will easily progress to the Europa League.
Expected Progression - Group Stage (Europa League)
Stadium - Donbass Arena (Cap. 52,187)
Manager - M.Lucescu
Key Player - Willian
3- Italian Giants Juventus are back with a bang. After an unbeaten season in Serie A and a march the title, the Old Lady have spent big over the Summer and will chalenge the top sides this year. Additions such as Kwadwo Asamoah, Mauricio Isla, Lucio, Nicklas Bendtner and Paul Pogba mean they have a strong side and good depth. The games against Chelsea could be tricky, but minnows Nordsjaelland should yield 6 points and a win and a draw against Donetsk should see them through.
Expected Progression - Quarter Finals
Stadium - Juventus Stadium (Cap. 41,000)
Manager - M.Carrera
Key Player - Andrea Pirlo
4- What do we know about the newcomers from Denmark? In all honesty, not very much. The Wild Tigers were founded in 1991 as a result of a merger between two clubs and won the Danish Super League for the first time in the 2011-12 season. Realistically, they have done well to qualify and can't hope for much, but they're likely to be spirited at home. Star player and Captain Nikolai Stockholm is an accomplished player and will provide possible chances for John, on loan from FC Twente, to finish off.
Expected Progression - Group Stage
Stadium - Farum Park (Cap. 10,100)
Manager - K.Hjulmand
Key Player - Nikolai Stockholm
Fixtures and Predictions
19 Sep
Chelsea vs Juventus --- CHELSEA WIN
Shakhtar vs Nordsjaelland --- SHAKHTAR WIN
2 Oct
Nordsjaelland vs Chelsea --- CHELSEA WIN
Juventus vs Shakhtar --- JUVE WIN
23 Oct
Shakhtar vs Chelsea --- DRAW
Juventus vs Nordsjaelland --- JUVE WIN
7 Nov
Chelsea vs Shakhtar --- CHELSEA WIN
Nordsjaelland vs Juventus --- JUVE WIN
20 Nov
Juventus vs Chelsea --- DRAW
Nordsjaelland vs Shakhtar --- SHAKHTAR WIN
5 Dec
Chelsea vs Nordsjaelland --- CHELSEA WIN
Shakhtar vs Juventus --- DRAW
Predicted Finish
1- Chelsea
2- Juventus
3- Shakhtar Donetsk
4- Nordsjaelland
Final Whistle - So, Di Matteo's men will win the Group but will face some challenges along the way. Juventus should overcome Shakhtar in the battle for second place and the Ukranians will have to settle for a Europa League place. The minnows from Denmark could, unfortunately, be on the end of a few heavy defeats, expecially away from home. But, this competition can be seen as experience for them.
German giants Bayern will be expected to rule this Group F, at home they could be unbeatable and away from home they're also strong. Valencia will provide test for any side and BATE will be a stubborn task when they play in Belarus. Lille have lost their star player in Eden Hazard and could struggle.
1- Bayern Munich
2- Valencia
3- Lille
4- BATE Borisov
1- After progressing all the way to the Final last year, only to lose to Chelsea, Bayern are back this season and they look a menacing side. Additions such as Xherdan Shaqiri, Javi Martinez and Mario Mandzukic mean they have even more quality in their side. Often in the last few years, if you could criticise Bayern, it would be because their starting lineup was world class, but their bench could be below par. Not this year, they have depth and that is a scary prospect. As a warning, they have started their Bundesliga campaign in fine form, easing past their first few challengers. Mario Gomez, their talisman striker, hasn't even started a game. He had ankle surgery in August and as yet, there is no date set for his return, he will be a miss for the side.
Expected Progression - Winners.
Stadium - Allianz Arena (Cap. 71,000)
Manager - J.Heynckes
Key Player - Toni Kroos
2- Valencia, forever the side that comes just behind the might of Real Madrid and Barcelona in La Liga, have yet again qualified for the Champions League campaign. A summer spending spree means they could cause some upsets to big sides, should they come up against them. Aly Cissokho will be a good addition to the defence from Lyon aswell as Joao Pereira from Sporting Lisbon. Roberto Soldado can be expected to finish off any chances that may arise upfront.
Expected Progression - Round of 16
Stadium - Mestalla (Cap. 55,000)
Manager - M.Pellegrino
Key Player - Roberto Soldado
3- Lille lost their star player in Eden Hazard over the Summer and have replaced him with Salomon Kalou from Chelsea. Realistically, they can't expect to challenge Bayern or Valencia but they may prove to be an awkward away tie on some occasions. Garcia's men and BATE Borisov can be expected to fight it out for the Europe League spot, with Lille expected to grab it.
Expected Progression - Group Stage (Europa League)
Stadium - Grand Stade Metropole (Cap. 50,816)
Manager - R.Garcia
Key Player - Salomon Kalou
4- BATE are almost certainly the minnows of this Group, their stadium capacity of 5000 suggests exactly that. However, they could be a tricky opponent at the City Stadium, as they have proven in the past. Unfortunately their away form can only really be described as dire, after rarely challenging the opposition at all away from home. Their captain is also their key player, Dzmitry Likhtarovich is an accomplished midfielder.
Expected Progression - Group Stage
Stadium - City Stadtum (Cap. 5,402)
Manager - V.Goncharenko
Key Player - Dzmitry Likhtarovic
Fixtures and Predictions
19 Sep
Bayern vs Valencia --- BAYERN WIN
Lille vs BATE --- LILLE WIN
2 Oct
BATE vs Bayern --- BAYERN WIN
Valencia vs Lille --- VALENCIA WIN
23 Oct
Lille vs Bayern --- BAYERN WIN
BATE vs Valencia --- VALENCIA WIN
7 Nov
Valencia vs BATE --- VALENCIA WIN
Bayern vs Lille --- BAYERN WIN
20 Nov
Valencia vs Bayern --- DRAW
BATE vs Lille --- DRAW
5 Dec
Bayern vs BATE --- BAYERN WIN
Valencia vs Lille --- VALENCIA WIN
Predicted Finish
1- Bayern Munich
2- Valencia
3- Lille
4- BATE Borisov
Final Whistle - You really can't see past Bayern for this group, the perennial nearlymen Valencia will again get close to the top spot and finish second. Nothing much canbe expected from Lille or BATE and it may well be a direct scrap between those two for a Europa League spot.
Spanish giants Barcelona are the biggest name in Group G, joined by Benfica, Spartak and SPL outfit Celtic. Can Tito Vilanova mastermind a title winning challenge?
1- Barcelona
2- Benfica
3- Spartak Moscow
4- Celtic
1- Barcelona, the giants of Spain. The have lost their companion in Pep Guardiola, the legendary coach, but nevertheless, they ooze quality and Tito Vilanova is no mug. The former assistant has taken over the reigns and looks right at home managing this side. Additions of Alex Song and Jordi Alba will only strengthen the already brimming side and we can see them easily making the semi-finals. Iniesta and Xavi are still there to form the three muscateers with Lionel Messi. These three score and assist a ridiculous amount of goals and I don't see this coming to an end. Infact, I predict they will make it all the way to the final, only to lose there to Bayern.
Expected Progression - Finalists
Stadium - Nou Camp (Cap. 96,636)
Manager - Tito Vilanova
Key Player - Lionel Messi
2- Benfica are here again, they appear to be the side most frequently able to spring surprises. After selling what was arguably their most valuable asset in Axel Witsel over the Summer, they will be slightly worse off. But, a side still full of talent such as Gaitan, Cardozo, Salvio, Aimar and Garay means they should qualfy for the next stage. Barcelona may prove a step too far, but points against Spartak and Celtic can be expected if not certain.
Expected Progression - Round of 16
Stadium - Estadio da Luz (Cap. 65,647)
Manager - J.Jesus
Key Player - Nicolas Gaitan
3- Spartak Moscow are a side we don't know too much about. Their huge stadium means there will be an intresting atmosphere for a side to face whenever they play in Moscow, however, it is rarely even half full. An accumulation of good players means they could prove a threat to the other sides in the Group. The likes of Romulo, Demy de Zeeuw, Kim Kallstrom, Jose Jurado and Aidan McGeady make up a very good midfield and with the Brazilian star striker Welliton upfront, they have a finisher. They should beat Celtic for the Europa eague spot but if Benfica don't perform, they will qualify for the next stage.
Expected Progression - Group Stage (Europa League)
Stadium - Luzhniki Stadium (Cap. 78,360)
Manager - S.Parshivkyuk
Key Player - Romulo
4- Celtic have found themselves in a tough Group for their return to the Champions League and realistically, their expectations cannot be high. Miku (on loan from Getafe) could prove to be a good goalscoring option aswell as their normal strikers Gary Hooper and Giorgios Samaras. Joe Ledley is likely to run the midfield for Lennon's side, however, you see them being dominated in posession by the better passing sides. This might be a year to gain some European experience for the Celtic men, but they will be a spirited side playing at Celtic Park.
Expected Progression - Group Stage
Stadium - Celtic Park (Cap. 60,832)
Manager - N.Lennon
Key Player - Gary Hooper
Fixtures and Predictions
19 Sep
Barcelona vs Spartak --- BARCA WIN
Celtic vs Benfica --- BENFICA WIN
2 Oct
Benfica vs Barcelona --- BARCA WIN
Spartak vs Celtic --- SPARTAK WIN
23 Oct
Barcelona vs Celtic ---BARCA WIN
Spartak vs Benfica --- DRAW
7 Nov
Celtic vs Barcelona --- BARCA WIN
Benfica vs Spartak --- BENFICA WIN
20 Nov
Spartak vs Barcelona --- BARCA WIN
Benfica vs Celtic --- BENFICA WIN
5 Dec
Barcelona vs Benfica --- BARCA WIN
Celtic vs Spartak --- SPARTAK WIN
Predicted Finish
1- Barcelona
2- Benfica
3- Spartak Moscow
4- Celtic
Final Whistle - Barcelona will win this group, quite easily, but the question is who will be second? We think Benfica have enough class and experience to get the second spot. As they have shown in previous campaigns, they are capable of springing an upset, but if they fail to gel, Spartak may nick the second place.
Group H, on paper, looks a good draw for Manchester United with Braga, Galatasaray and Romanian minnows Cluj. What is certain is that United will witness some of the most unique venues in Europe.
1- Manchester United
2- Braga
3- Galatasaray
4- CFR Cluj
1- United, the Champions of a few years back, will attempt to do it again this year and with a strong squad supplemented by a few world class arrivals, they look a threat. The Summer additions of Robin Van Persie and Shinji Kagawa provide a goalscorer and someone that can create the opportunities. Added to this, they have a fit and rejuvinated Nemanja Vidic to run their defence, which was the bane of the campaign last season. Away games at Galatasaray and Braga could be awkward ones but I see United having enough.
Expected Progression - Semi-Finals
Stadium - Old Trafford (Cap. 75,765)
Manager - A.Ferguson
Key Player - Nemanja Vidic
2- Galatasaray have built a squad with a few good quality players. Repatriating Hamit Altintop over the Summer was an excellent decision for them and now, they mave have enough to gain a second place spot for the Knockout round. Add to this the Brazilian Felipe Melo, Emmanuel Eboue, Johan Elmander and Albert Riera and they should beat Braga and Cluj to qualify. The Turk Telecom Arena will be a terrible away day for any side, a fiery atmosphere, sometimes intimidating will be a challenge.
Expected Progression - Round of 16
Stadium - Turk Telecom Arena (Cap. 52,652)
Manager - F.Terim
Key Player - Hamit Altintop
3- Braga play in a picturesque stadium built into the side of a rock face. It is a tough place to travel for a number of sides and it should be the again. An equally interesting squad is made up of 11 Brazilians, a feat that is tough to match. Their squad will therefore be adept passers and a lively bunch, but they may not have the experience or quality to close out games at this level. Their key player comes in the form of on loan Athletico Madrid player Ruben Micael, he and Ruben Amorim will be likely to run their midfield.
Expected Progression - Group Stage (Europa League)
Stadium - Estadio Municipal (Cap. 30,184)
Manager - J.Peseiro
Key Player - Ruben Micael
4- Cluj, the Romanian minnows from Vampire country in Transylvania, will be expected to be the whipping boys of this group. However, a unique home stadium and an equally odd atmosphere mean it may be a challenge for some sides. Their central defensive partner and Captain, Cadu is good, solid player. He will attempt to run their defence, something that will be vital if they are to stop conceding goals like they have in past Chmpions League campaigns.
Expected Progression - Group Stage
Stadium - Stadional Dr.Constantin Radulescu (Cap. 24,000)
Manager - I.Andone
Key Player - Cadu
Fixtures and Predictions
19 Sep
Man.United vs Galatasaray --- UNITED WIN
Braga vs Cluj --- BRAGA WIN
2 Oct
Cluj vs Man.United --- UNITED WIN
Galatasaray vs Braga --- GALATASARAY WIN
23 Oct
Man.United vs Braga --- UNITED WIN
Galatasaray vs Cluj --- GALATASARAY WIN
7 Nov
Braga vs Man.United --- UNITED WIN
Cluj vs Galatasaray --- DRAW
20 Nov
Galatasaray vs Man.United --- DRAW
Cluj vs Braga --- CLUJ WIN
5 Dec
Man.United vs Cluj ---UNITED WIN
Braga vs Galatasaray --- DRAW
Predicted Finish
1- Manchester United
2- Galatasaray
3- Braga
4- CFR Cluj
Final Whistle - Aslong as they aren't complacent, United should win this final Group G. Galatasaray have a few good players, that should be enough to see them pick up the second place. Braga is a tough place to go and so I expect them to scrape into the Europa League qualification spot. Cluj could cause an upset or two at home, but I don't see them challenging.
Next up in this Champions League group stage is Group B. This one contains the first British team in these previews, Arsenal.
1-Arsenal
2-FC Schalke 04
3-Olympiacos
4-Montpellier Herault
1- Arsenal, the first British side in our previews. They haven't bought in many new players but the players they have bought have been good purchases especially Santi Cazorla. The Gunners have started off slowly in the Premier league but have been rock solid at the back due to the new assistant coach there. Arsenal should come out easy group winners with the only tough fixture the away leg to Schalke where Klaas Jan Huntelaar will punish any mistakes. A favourable draw in the Round of 16 may see them make the quarter finals but I see it being a step too far for the Gunners.
Expected Progression - Round of 16
Manager - A.Wenger
Stadium - Emirates Stadium (Cap. 60,361)
Key Player - Santi Cazorla
2- Schalke have a formidable team with proven talent and youngsters alike. Klaas Jan Huntelaar went quietly about his business last year with all hype pointed towards Mario Gomez. Huntelaar was the Bundesliga's top scorer and is going to be tough for any side to handle. Youngsters Draxler and Holtby are providing flair in attacking midfield positions and Papadopoulous holds the line at the back of a 4-2-3-1 formation. However I predict that Schalke will run into trouble away from home especially at the Emirates and in Greece. Therefore I predict they will finish 2nd to a resilient Arsenal side in this group.
Expected Progression - Round of 16
Manager - H.Stevens
Stadium - Veltins Arena (Cap. 61,673)
Key player - Klaas Jan Huntelaar
3- Olympiacos, the Greek champions, have lost their most valuable asset in Kevin Mirallas. Their secret weapon is likely to come at the feet of young Giannis Fetfatzidis who's pace and skill have drawn comparisons to Hazard and Messi. This Greek variant will bring plenty of service to Djebbour up front. Olympiacos will struggle away from home apart from potentially Montpellier, However Olympiacos traditionally take points off the Gunners at home. The Greeks will have a hard time cracking both the German and British sides and therefore I predict they will again falter at the Group stage and scrap to qualify for the Europa League at best.
Expected Progression - Group Stage (Europa League)
Manager - L.Jardim
Stadium - Kiraiskakis Stadium (Cap. 32,115)
Key player - Giannis Fetfatzidis
4- The unexpected champions of France, Montpellier were surprisingly successful due to a fantastic partnership between Belhanda and Giroud with the latter becoming the top scorer in France and a solid defence led by Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa, their young captain. However Montpellier sold Giroud to Arsenal, so expect an... unsavoury reception in France for Arsenal. Without Giroud, Belhanda has very few outlets and Montpellier have no proven goal scorer. Thanks to these reasons I can't see Montpellier being much of a threat to anyone this season as shown by their mid table position in Ligue 1 for the moment. Herault and Olympiacos will fight it out for the Europa League Qualification.
Expected Progression - Group Stage
Manager - R.Girard
Stadium - Stade de la Mosson (Cap. 32,900)
Key Player - Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa
18 Sep
Montpellier vs Arsenal --- ARSENAL WIN
Olympiacos vs Schalke --- SCHALKE WIN
3 Oct
Schalke vs Montpellier --- SCHALKE WIN
Arsenal vs Olympiacos --- ARSENAL WIN
24 Oct
Arsenal vs Schalke --- ARSENAL WIN
Montpellier vs Olympiacos --- MONTPELLIER WIN
6 Nov
Schalke vs Arsenal --- SCHALKE WIN
Olympiacos vs Montpellier --- OLYMPIACOS WIN
21 Nov
Arsenal vs Montpellier --- ARSENAL WIN
Schalke vs Olympiacos --- SCHALKE WIN
4 Dec
Montpellier vs Schalke --- DRAW
Olympiacos vs Arsenal --- ARSENAL WIN
Predicted Finish
1- Arsenal
2- FC Schalke
3- Montpellier
4- Olympiacos
Final Whistle- With a British side in, this will be one of the groups that you can't see many upsets in. It will be worth a fair watch due to Schalke's lethality and some exciting youngsters getting a go. Watch to see if Olympiacos can pick up that home win against Arsenal.
Group C holds the minnow for which we will show undying support for throughout the competition- RSC ANDERLECHT!
1- AC Milan
2- RSC Anderlecht
3- Malaga
4- Zenit St Petersburg
1- AC Milan; once the undisputed champions of Italy, are nothing more of a shell of what they once were. No Ibra and no Thiago Silva. All hopes rely on Pato, El Sharaawy and Pazzini up front. The somewhat debatable temperament of Kevin Prince-Boateng only serves as another thorn in the side of the Rosoneri. With poor performances in the Serie A Milan will struggle in this seasons Champions League barring some magic. The San Siro will Milan's best bet for success this time and hoping that teams don't dismantle a weak back line that focuses on Mexes' fitness. However, Robinho will be awkward for most teams but can he carry Milan? I would think not.
Expected Progression - Round of 16
Stadium - San Siro (Cap. 80,018)
Manager - M.Allegri
Key Player - Phillippe Mexes
2- RSC Anderlecht, the blog's selected minnow for this Champions League. The Belgian Champions and a very diverse team. They have a rather large lad up front in the form of the prolific Dieumerci Mbokani! The 6ft 1inch striker hails from the Democratic Republic of Congo, impressive we must admit. Anderlecht hold a very creative and pacey midfield featuring Argentinian Matias Suarez, the constant creative front for Anderlecht and he tends to run the attacking portion of the field with quick feet and darting runs. A Serbian winger in Jovanovic the former Liverpool man, and the other winger, Sacha Kljestan, who is very quick, make up the wingmen. The lynch pin holding midfielder is Lucas Biglia, he is the key to a good Anderlecht performance. Anderlecht are quite obviously the team to beat in this years tournament and many teams will find it hard to get past the class keeper in the form of Proto!
We hope that our minnows will be able to advance to the knockout stages but realistically the Belgians may come up against some tough teams. It is entirely possible that the best they can hope for is a draw or two.
Expeted Progression - Group Stage (Europa League)
Stadium - Constant Vanden Stock Stadium (Cap. 28,763)
Manager - J.Van Den Brom
Key Player - Matias Suarez
3- Malaga are the unknown spenders of Europe, however this preseason they failed to buy any players and in fact sold their most dependable and dangerous player in Santi Cazorla to Arsenal in the midst of a financial dispute. Malaga are new to the Champions League and may be overwhelmed by the occasion. Malaga is a tough place to go but I can't see the new boys advancing past the group stage without their talismanic architect Cazorla. The frontline also looks a bit lightweight after the departure of Salomon Rondon to Russia so you'd be hard pushed to find a recognised scorer in this side. I will expect them to pick up some points at home and to give a good fight away but the lack of experience and few household names, I can't see them advancing far.
Expected Progression - Group Stage
Stadium - La Rosaleda (Cap. 29,500)
Manager - M.Pellegrini
Key Player - Isco
4- Zenit St Petersburg; the fourth seed of the group. This is usually meant to mean they are the worst side of the group, but in this case I have to say that Zenit is the best side of this group. The addition of Hulk and Axel Witsel will only seek to prove it. With creative prescence in the shape of Portugese Danny and now Axel Witsel; Aleksandr Kerzhakov will have plenty to feed off and with his ability will likely convert any chances that fall his way. The Russians have steel at the back with Bruno Alves always a formidable opponent in the air while Anyukov and Criscito will roam up the pitch providing support for attacking players. I predict Zenit to comfortably beat most of those in this group and the Russian champions should win it convincingly.
Expected Progression - Round of 16
Stadium - Petrovsky Stadium (Cap. 21,570)
Manager - L.Spaletti
Key Player - Hulk
Fixtures and Predictions
18 Sep
Milan vs Anderlecht --- DRAW
Malaga vs Zenit --- ZENIT WIN
3 Oct
Anderlecht vs Malaga --- ANDERLECHT WIN
Zenit vs Milan --- ZENIT WIN
24 Oct
Zenit vs Anderlecht --- ZENIT WIN
Malaga vs Milan --- MILAN WIN
6 Nov
Anderlecht vs Zenit ---DRAW
Milan vs Malaga --- MILAN WIN
21 Nov
Anderlecht vs Milan ---ANDERLECHT WIN
Zenit vs Malaga --- ZENIT WIN
4 Dec
Malaga vs Anderlecht --- ANDERLECHT WIN
Milan vs Zenit --- ZENIT WIN
Predicted Table-
1- Zenit St Petersburg
2- RSC Anderlecht
3- AC Milan
4- Malaga CF
Final Whistle- With our minnows in this group we will be watching this intently, cheering them on every step of the way, but with the major additions Zenit have made they will certainly be worth a watch as they attempt to decimate all opposition. This will also be a fun group to watch as we gaze at what is possibly the worst Milan side in many years. Up the Purple and Whites!
Welcome to Group D; the Group of Death! 4 Champions joined together in one group. Only 2 can proceed. Who will it be?
1- Real Madrid
2- Manchester City
3- Borussia Dortmund
4- Ajax
1- The Spanish champions may finally have found a group that will prove tricky to get out of for a change. When you add to this a very below par start to the La Liga campaign, they may find it tough. The experience and talent in the Madrid side should get them out on top and the Santiago Bernabeu is a tough place for even the mighty Barcelona. Expect Ronaldo to be raring to go to prove himself against the best of the best. The toughest test Madrid will face is probably an away tie at Manchester City. The English champions are unbeaten in League fixtures here since 2010. The other away clashes will prove tough as well with each side champions. However a vast amount of experience and The Special One at the helm will see Madrid top the group.
Expected Progression - Semi-Final
Stadium - Santiago Bernabeu (Cap. 85,454)
Manager - Jose Mourinho
Key Player - Cristiano Ronaldo
2- The Mighty Manchester City! My team, and champions of England and Wales. Unbeaten at home in the league for well over a year and a side matched by the best of the best. Its rather unfortunate therefore that Manchester City have drawn 3 champions in their group of death. With Roberto Mancini at the helm the blues gained their first ever Premier League Trophy. Carlos Tevez has returned triumphantly to the fold and been a huge influence in the past few games for City, chasing down otherwise lost causes to great effect. I predict that Manchester City will be formidable at home and incredibly hard to match. The hardest challenge will arise when my blues travel to the Bernabeu on the first day to an incredible Madrid side filled with talent. City haven't looked at their best so far and will need to improve on their league start. But I will also be expecting the Dortmund away game to be a tricky task. Unfortunately I can't see my beloved City pipping Madrid to top spot in this group but I expect them to advance to the next stage in the Champions league, assuming players like David Silva and Sergio Aguero can return to top form.
Expected Progression - Quarter-Finals
Stadium - Etihad Stadium (Cap. 47,726)
Manager - Roberto Mancini
Key Player - Sergio Aguero
3- Borussia Dortmund, conquerors of the terrors of Germany, Bayern Munich, and champions of the Bundesliga. Not a mean feat by any stretch. With talent such as Lewandowski and Gotze up front with Hummels and Subotic in defence, its no wonder why they won the Bundesliga. The Signal Iduna Park is a huge stadium and is incredibly noisy when full so expect a resilient and difficult side to match in an away clash. As talented as this team is I believe they would advance out of any other group with ease, but this is no ordinary group and, even with all of the talent involved in this side. Unfortunately I have to say the German Champions won't progress past the group stage this year. I expect them to qualify for the Europa League and to challenge for that particular title.
Expected Progression - Group Stage (Europa League)
Stadium - Westfalenstadion (Cap. 80,720)
Manager - J.Klopp
Key Player - Mario Gotze
4- Ajax, ever the champions of Holland and a trophy cabinet filled to the brim, will find it difficult this year, it won't be from the occasion though. Ajax have an incredible Champions League pedigree, it is just the talent of opponent that will see Ajax struggle to register even a few points this year. Last year they beat Manchester United at Old Trafford which isn't easy but the Bernabeu, Signal Iduna and Etihad stadiums will be fortresses this time round. Ajax do have class in their ranks even with the departure of Van Der Wiel to PSG in the summer. Ryan Babel can score screamers on his day and the Champions League is his regular place to do them, so the other champions will need to watch out.
Expected Progression - Group Stage
Stadium - Amsterdam Arena (Cap. 52,342)
Manager - F.De Boer
Key Player - Cristian Eriksen
18 Sep
Madrid vs City --- MADRID WIN
Dortmund vs Ajax --- DORTMUND WIN
3 Oct
Ajax vs Madrid --- MADRID WIN
City vs Dortmund --- CITY WIN
24 Oct
Dortmund vs Madrid --- DRAW
Ajax vs City --- CITY WIN
6 Nov
Madrid vs Dortmund --- MADRID WIN
City vs Ajax --- CITY WIN
21 Nov
City vs Madrid --- DRAW
Ajax vs Dortmund --- DORTMUND WIN
4 Dec
Madrid vs Ajax --- MADRID WIN
Dortmund vs City --- DORTMUND WIN
Predicted Finish
1- Real Madrid
2- Manchester City
3- Borussia Dortmund
4- Ajax
Final Whistle- Definitely a group for everyone to watch, with 4 major players in European football all joined in one group. If Manchester City fail to qualify, it should be Dortmund that take the second spot. You shouldn't even think of missing such quality as Aguero, Tevez, Ronaldo, Ozil, Gotze, Hummels and Eriksen all put together on one field of battle, watch this space. I'd say City will just pip Dortmund.
Reigning Champions Chesea return to defend their title in Group E, joined by Ukranian side Shakhtar, Italian unbeaten Champions Juventus and Danish side Nordsjaelland. Can Roberto Di Matteo mastermind a successful campaign yet again?
1- Chelsea
2- Shakhtar Donetsk
3- Juventus
4- Nordsjaelland
1- Can Roberto Di Matteo and his strengthened Chelsea squad mount another challenge for the Cup? Summer spending to the tune of £90million suggests they mean business; The Hazard Bros, Marin, Oscar, Azpilicueta and Moses add to an already packed squad. Didier Drogba has left but will Fernando Torres 'hear the drums' and fire in the vital goals that the Ivorian has left behind? We think they can expect to top the group, but it'll be tough at times, Shakhtar and Juventus will be very trick places to go and they may only pick up a draw or two there, but expect them to win the rest of their matches.
Expected Progression - Quarter Final
Stadium - Stamford Bridge (Cap. 41,837)
Manager - R.Di Matteo
Key Player - Eden Hazard
Expected Progression - Group Stage (Europa League)
Stadium - Donbass Arena (Cap. 52,187)
Manager - M.Lucescu
Key Player - Willian
Expected Progression - Quarter Finals
Stadium - Juventus Stadium (Cap. 41,000)
Manager - M.Carrera
Key Player - Andrea Pirlo
Expected Progression - Group Stage
Stadium - Farum Park (Cap. 10,100)
Manager - K.Hjulmand
Key Player - Nikolai Stockholm
19 Sep
Chelsea vs Juventus --- CHELSEA WIN
Shakhtar vs Nordsjaelland --- SHAKHTAR WIN
2 Oct
Nordsjaelland vs Chelsea --- CHELSEA WIN
Juventus vs Shakhtar --- JUVE WIN
23 Oct
Shakhtar vs Chelsea --- DRAW
Juventus vs Nordsjaelland --- JUVE WIN
7 Nov
Chelsea vs Shakhtar --- CHELSEA WIN
Nordsjaelland vs Juventus --- JUVE WIN
20 Nov
Juventus vs Chelsea --- DRAW
Nordsjaelland vs Shakhtar --- SHAKHTAR WIN
5 Dec
Chelsea vs Nordsjaelland --- CHELSEA WIN
Shakhtar vs Juventus --- DRAW
Predicted Finish
1- Chelsea
2- Juventus
3- Shakhtar Donetsk
4- Nordsjaelland
Final Whistle - So, Di Matteo's men will win the Group but will face some challenges along the way. Juventus should overcome Shakhtar in the battle for second place and the Ukranians will have to settle for a Europa League place. The minnows from Denmark could, unfortunately, be on the end of a few heavy defeats, expecially away from home. But, this competition can be seen as experience for them.
German giants Bayern will be expected to rule this Group F, at home they could be unbeatable and away from home they're also strong. Valencia will provide test for any side and BATE will be a stubborn task when they play in Belarus. Lille have lost their star player in Eden Hazard and could struggle.
1- Bayern Munich
2- Valencia
3- Lille
4- BATE Borisov
1- After progressing all the way to the Final last year, only to lose to Chelsea, Bayern are back this season and they look a menacing side. Additions such as Xherdan Shaqiri, Javi Martinez and Mario Mandzukic mean they have even more quality in their side. Often in the last few years, if you could criticise Bayern, it would be because their starting lineup was world class, but their bench could be below par. Not this year, they have depth and that is a scary prospect. As a warning, they have started their Bundesliga campaign in fine form, easing past their first few challengers. Mario Gomez, their talisman striker, hasn't even started a game. He had ankle surgery in August and as yet, there is no date set for his return, he will be a miss for the side.
Expected Progression - Winners.
Stadium - Allianz Arena (Cap. 71,000)
Manager - J.Heynckes
Key Player - Toni Kroos
Expected Progression - Round of 16
Stadium - Mestalla (Cap. 55,000)
Manager - M.Pellegrino
Key Player - Roberto Soldado
Expected Progression - Group Stage (Europa League)
Stadium - Grand Stade Metropole (Cap. 50,816)
Manager - R.Garcia
Key Player - Salomon Kalou
Expected Progression - Group Stage
Stadium - City Stadtum (Cap. 5,402)
Manager - V.Goncharenko
Key Player - Dzmitry Likhtarovic
19 Sep
Bayern vs Valencia --- BAYERN WIN
Lille vs BATE --- LILLE WIN
2 Oct
BATE vs Bayern --- BAYERN WIN
Valencia vs Lille --- VALENCIA WIN
23 Oct
Lille vs Bayern --- BAYERN WIN
BATE vs Valencia --- VALENCIA WIN
7 Nov
Valencia vs BATE --- VALENCIA WIN
Bayern vs Lille --- BAYERN WIN
20 Nov
Valencia vs Bayern --- DRAW
BATE vs Lille --- DRAW
5 Dec
Bayern vs BATE --- BAYERN WIN
Valencia vs Lille --- VALENCIA WIN
Predicted Finish
1- Bayern Munich
2- Valencia
3- Lille
4- BATE Borisov
Final Whistle - You really can't see past Bayern for this group, the perennial nearlymen Valencia will again get close to the top spot and finish second. Nothing much canbe expected from Lille or BATE and it may well be a direct scrap between those two for a Europa League spot.
Spanish giants Barcelona are the biggest name in Group G, joined by Benfica, Spartak and SPL outfit Celtic. Can Tito Vilanova mastermind a title winning challenge?
1- Barcelona
2- Benfica
3- Spartak Moscow
4- Celtic
1- Barcelona, the giants of Spain. The have lost their companion in Pep Guardiola, the legendary coach, but nevertheless, they ooze quality and Tito Vilanova is no mug. The former assistant has taken over the reigns and looks right at home managing this side. Additions of Alex Song and Jordi Alba will only strengthen the already brimming side and we can see them easily making the semi-finals. Iniesta and Xavi are still there to form the three muscateers with Lionel Messi. These three score and assist a ridiculous amount of goals and I don't see this coming to an end. Infact, I predict they will make it all the way to the final, only to lose there to Bayern.
Expected Progression - Finalists
Stadium - Nou Camp (Cap. 96,636)
Manager - Tito Vilanova
Key Player - Lionel Messi
Expected Progression - Round of 16
Stadium - Estadio da Luz (Cap. 65,647)
Manager - J.Jesus
Key Player - Nicolas Gaitan
Expected Progression - Group Stage (Europa League)
Stadium - Luzhniki Stadium (Cap. 78,360)
Manager - S.Parshivkyuk
Key Player - Romulo
Expected Progression - Group Stage
Stadium - Celtic Park (Cap. 60,832)
Manager - N.Lennon
Key Player - Gary Hooper
19 Sep
Barcelona vs Spartak --- BARCA WIN
Celtic vs Benfica --- BENFICA WIN
2 Oct
Benfica vs Barcelona --- BARCA WIN
Spartak vs Celtic --- SPARTAK WIN
23 Oct
Barcelona vs Celtic ---BARCA WIN
Spartak vs Benfica --- DRAW
7 Nov
Celtic vs Barcelona --- BARCA WIN
Benfica vs Spartak --- BENFICA WIN
20 Nov
Spartak vs Barcelona --- BARCA WIN
Benfica vs Celtic --- BENFICA WIN
5 Dec
Barcelona vs Benfica --- BARCA WIN
Celtic vs Spartak --- SPARTAK WIN
Predicted Finish
1- Barcelona
2- Benfica
3- Spartak Moscow
4- Celtic
Final Whistle - Barcelona will win this group, quite easily, but the question is who will be second? We think Benfica have enough class and experience to get the second spot. As they have shown in previous campaigns, they are capable of springing an upset, but if they fail to gel, Spartak may nick the second place.
Group H, on paper, looks a good draw for Manchester United with Braga, Galatasaray and Romanian minnows Cluj. What is certain is that United will witness some of the most unique venues in Europe.
1- Manchester United
2- Braga
3- Galatasaray
4- CFR Cluj
1- United, the Champions of a few years back, will attempt to do it again this year and with a strong squad supplemented by a few world class arrivals, they look a threat. The Summer additions of Robin Van Persie and Shinji Kagawa provide a goalscorer and someone that can create the opportunities. Added to this, they have a fit and rejuvinated Nemanja Vidic to run their defence, which was the bane of the campaign last season. Away games at Galatasaray and Braga could be awkward ones but I see United having enough.
Expected Progression - Semi-Finals
Stadium - Old Trafford (Cap. 75,765)
Manager - A.Ferguson
Key Player - Nemanja Vidic
2- Galatasaray have built a squad with a few good quality players. Repatriating Hamit Altintop over the Summer was an excellent decision for them and now, they mave have enough to gain a second place spot for the Knockout round. Add to this the Brazilian Felipe Melo, Emmanuel Eboue, Johan Elmander and Albert Riera and they should beat Braga and Cluj to qualify. The Turk Telecom Arena will be a terrible away day for any side, a fiery atmosphere, sometimes intimidating will be a challenge.
Expected Progression - Round of 16
Stadium - Turk Telecom Arena (Cap. 52,652)
Manager - F.Terim
Key Player - Hamit Altintop
Expected Progression - Group Stage (Europa League)
Stadium - Estadio Municipal (Cap. 30,184)
Manager - J.Peseiro
Key Player - Ruben Micael
4- Cluj, the Romanian minnows from Vampire country in Transylvania, will be expected to be the whipping boys of this group. However, a unique home stadium and an equally odd atmosphere mean it may be a challenge for some sides. Their central defensive partner and Captain, Cadu is good, solid player. He will attempt to run their defence, something that will be vital if they are to stop conceding goals like they have in past Chmpions League campaigns.
Expected Progression - Group Stage
Stadium - Stadional Dr.Constantin Radulescu (Cap. 24,000)
Manager - I.Andone
Key Player - Cadu
Fixtures and Predictions
19 Sep
Man.United vs Galatasaray --- UNITED WIN
Braga vs Cluj --- BRAGA WIN
2 Oct
Cluj vs Man.United --- UNITED WIN
Galatasaray vs Braga --- GALATASARAY WIN
23 Oct
Man.United vs Braga --- UNITED WIN
Galatasaray vs Cluj --- GALATASARAY WIN
7 Nov
Braga vs Man.United --- UNITED WIN
Cluj vs Galatasaray --- DRAW
20 Nov
Galatasaray vs Man.United --- DRAW
Cluj vs Braga --- CLUJ WIN
5 Dec
Man.United vs Cluj ---UNITED WIN
Braga vs Galatasaray --- DRAW
Predicted Finish
1- Manchester United
2- Galatasaray
3- Braga
4- CFR Cluj
Final Whistle - Aslong as they aren't complacent, United should win this final Group G. Galatasaray have a few good players, that should be enough to see them pick up the second place. Braga is a tough place to go and so I expect them to scrape into the Europa League qualification spot. Cluj could cause an upset or two at home, but I don't see them challenging.
Monday, 17 September 2012
Premier League TOTW - Week 4
The Premier League was goal heavy this week courtesy of two great games at Old Trafford and the Emirates, 11 goals in those alone but there's still a defence in our team of the week number 4. Because of the results, the side is heavily dominated by both the Gunners and United.
Formation: 4-2-3-1
GK- Brad Guzan- American Guzan had a fantastic week between the posts for Villa. Keeping Shay Given out of the starting side, he needs to perform, and he did this on Saturday, pulling off a number of good saves in a clean sheet for Villa.
RB- Leighton Baines- Everton's England left back Baines scored the opener in the Toffees' 2-2 draw with Newcastle. He is always a threat from set pieces and in attack while being good in defence holding the line well. We swap him over to Right-back to accommodate the new United star.
CB- Thomas Vermaelen- Arsenal's talisman in defence has formed a seemingly very solid partnership with Per Mertesacker and another good performance all round means he gains a spot in this side.
CB- Per Mertesacker- Gangly German Mertesacker had a troubled start to his Arsenal career, but this season he seems rejuvinated. A number of clean sheets have been the result and this weekend he got close to another. Southampton robbed him of another, but his solid partnership with Vermaelen is serving Arsenal well.
LB- Alexander Buttner- Up until this weekend, nobody had heard of this chap. Now, we think it's safe to eople do. An outstanding debut in which he not only scored, but showed a never say die attitude and fantastic workrate shows he should be a great addition to the United outfit.
CDM- Paul Scholes- 700 games, bu he still seems to not be showing signs of his performance level dropping. A goal on his landmark appearance and his controlling of the midfield an pce of the game earnt United an easy win.
CDM- Javi Garcia- He might look slightly like a beaver, but he can certainly play. A threat from seemingly every set play, it appears as if he is very good aerially aswell as with his feet. He regained posession a number of times and scored the goal that gave the Champions a tricky point.
RAM- Gervinho- Seemingly forgotten with the form of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain the man with the giant forehead scored twice at the weekend in a top quality performance that saw him possibly cement a more regular starting spot.
LAM- Alex Kacaniklic- Like many other Football fans, this lad was not well known to us until the start of this season. However, his performances so far have suggested he is more than capable. A lively attacking style supplemented by a good end product means he will score goals and create them, just as he did this weekend.
CF- Lukas Podolski- If he isn't in the side for any other reason, he would still be here just for his free-kick. A sublime piece of skill got him a goal but he was a general nuisance to the Southampton defence and as a result looks a real threat for the Gunners.
ST- Dimitar Berbatov- We see him scoring a hatfull of goals at Craven Cottage. From his debut, it looks as though we may be right. One world class finish and a coolly taken penalty in a performance with epitomised Berbatov's somewhat enviable style means he easily makes our side.
Subs- Begovic, Gallas, Lowton, Arteta, Nani, Ba, Defoe
Manager- Arsene Wenger
Chump of the week - Peter Odemwingie - What can only be dubbed as a foolish fly-hack at an opposition player essentially ended all chances of West Brom getting a result of Fulham. This possibly cost them the game or atleast a draw. A very naive act.
Formation: 4-2-3-1
GK- Brad Guzan- American Guzan had a fantastic week between the posts for Villa. Keeping Shay Given out of the starting side, he needs to perform, and he did this on Saturday, pulling off a number of good saves in a clean sheet for Villa.
RB- Leighton Baines- Everton's England left back Baines scored the opener in the Toffees' 2-2 draw with Newcastle. He is always a threat from set pieces and in attack while being good in defence holding the line well. We swap him over to Right-back to accommodate the new United star.
CB- Thomas Vermaelen- Arsenal's talisman in defence has formed a seemingly very solid partnership with Per Mertesacker and another good performance all round means he gains a spot in this side.
CB- Per Mertesacker- Gangly German Mertesacker had a troubled start to his Arsenal career, but this season he seems rejuvinated. A number of clean sheets have been the result and this weekend he got close to another. Southampton robbed him of another, but his solid partnership with Vermaelen is serving Arsenal well.
LB- Alexander Buttner- Up until this weekend, nobody had heard of this chap. Now, we think it's safe to eople do. An outstanding debut in which he not only scored, but showed a never say die attitude and fantastic workrate shows he should be a great addition to the United outfit.
CDM- Paul Scholes- 700 games, bu he still seems to not be showing signs of his performance level dropping. A goal on his landmark appearance and his controlling of the midfield an pce of the game earnt United an easy win.
CDM- Javi Garcia- He might look slightly like a beaver, but he can certainly play. A threat from seemingly every set play, it appears as if he is very good aerially aswell as with his feet. He regained posession a number of times and scored the goal that gave the Champions a tricky point.
RAM- Gervinho- Seemingly forgotten with the form of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain the man with the giant forehead scored twice at the weekend in a top quality performance that saw him possibly cement a more regular starting spot.
LAM- Alex Kacaniklic- Like many other Football fans, this lad was not well known to us until the start of this season. However, his performances so far have suggested he is more than capable. A lively attacking style supplemented by a good end product means he will score goals and create them, just as he did this weekend.
CF- Lukas Podolski- If he isn't in the side for any other reason, he would still be here just for his free-kick. A sublime piece of skill got him a goal but he was a general nuisance to the Southampton defence and as a result looks a real threat for the Gunners.
ST- Dimitar Berbatov- We see him scoring a hatfull of goals at Craven Cottage. From his debut, it looks as though we may be right. One world class finish and a coolly taken penalty in a performance with epitomised Berbatov's somewhat enviable style means he easily makes our side.
Subs- Begovic, Gallas, Lowton, Arteta, Nani, Ba, Defoe
Manager- Arsene Wenger
Chump of the week - Peter Odemwingie - What can only be dubbed as a foolish fly-hack at an opposition player essentially ended all chances of West Brom getting a result of Fulham. This possibly cost them the game or atleast a draw. A very naive act.
Sunday, 2 September 2012
Premier League TOTW - Week 3
Here's our Barclays Premier league Team of The Week for Gameweek 3!
An astonishing lack of defenders this week, the low number of standout defensive displays means we have plugged for an attacking side this time round.
Formation- 3-4-1-2
GK- Brad Friedel- He is 41, but he simply shows no signs of stopping performing at the highest level. Friedel made two outstanding saves among a raft of others as Norwich threatened to upset a shaky Spurs. In the end, they took a point, in part thanks to the efforts of the American stopper.
RCB- Ciaran Clark- Villa's young star Clark had a solid week. A goal that gave is side an unlikely lead meant he was already a candidate. However, an additional clean sheet was only denied by a stunning goal that no man could have stopped, therefore Clark makes it into our side.
CB- Winston Reid- West Ham capped a great win with a clean sheet and this man was a big part of that. Add this to his fine header for their second goal and Reid had an impressive day at the office.
LCB- Thomas Vermaelen- Arsenal haven't conceded a goal yet, and this is in no mall part down to their defensive rock and captain. Steve Bould has the defensive quartet very well drilled and Vermaelen holds it together.
CM- Kevin Nolan- A portfolio of pesky qualities means Nolan is a handful for any side, but he was too much for Fulham this weekend. He had a hand in one goal and scored another in a teriffic win for the Hammers. This sees him gain a place in our lineup.
CM- Abou Diaby- With a passing style drawing comparisons to that of Arsenal legend Patrick Vieira, Diaby controlled Arsenal's Anfield win with aplomb. His gangly running style seems to take him away from challenges with ease and this set up a great win for Wenger's side.
LM- Robert Snodgrass- Coming from Leeds and the Championship over the Summer, there was soe doubt as to whether Snodgrass would adapt, but a sublime performance that epitomised a battling Norwich display capped off with a well taken goal, meant that his critics are being rapidly answered.
RM- Hatem Ben Arfa- With Newcastle producing a below par performance, they needed a spark to ignite their game. This came from Ben Arfa who rifled a powerful shot into the top right corner to level the scores, in the process, rescuing a valuable point for his side.
CF- Robin Van Persie- 10 chances, 5 on target, 3 goals, 1 penalty won and the same penalty missed; An eventful game for the new United talisman but his trio of goals won Fergie's men a game that threatened to be a banana skin to their Title challenge.
CF- Andy Carroll- His West Ham debut was a shimmering one as Carroll made a general nuisance of himself throughout his time on the pitch, contributing to two goals. An injury curtailed his Hammers debut however, fans have a lot to shout about with their new frontman.
ST- Steven Fletcher- It looked this week as if Sunderland had spent £14million on a player that maybe wouldn't set the world alight. However, his first appearance in the Black Cat shirt was one out of the top draw as his two goals meant Sunderland got a point out of a tricky game against the well drilled Swansea side.
Subs- Al Habsi, Macauley, Diame, Dembele, Cazorla, Allen, Tevez, Lambert
Manager- Chris Hughton
We also give a mention to Neil Taylor. An unfortunate injury means he faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines. Having had a fantastic season for Swansea last year, this will be a big blow to the Welsh side and we wish him the best of luck in his recovery.
An astonishing lack of defenders this week, the low number of standout defensive displays means we have plugged for an attacking side this time round.
Formation- 3-4-1-2
GK- Brad Friedel- He is 41, but he simply shows no signs of stopping performing at the highest level. Friedel made two outstanding saves among a raft of others as Norwich threatened to upset a shaky Spurs. In the end, they took a point, in part thanks to the efforts of the American stopper.
RCB- Ciaran Clark- Villa's young star Clark had a solid week. A goal that gave is side an unlikely lead meant he was already a candidate. However, an additional clean sheet was only denied by a stunning goal that no man could have stopped, therefore Clark makes it into our side.
CB- Winston Reid- West Ham capped a great win with a clean sheet and this man was a big part of that. Add this to his fine header for their second goal and Reid had an impressive day at the office.
LCB- Thomas Vermaelen- Arsenal haven't conceded a goal yet, and this is in no mall part down to their defensive rock and captain. Steve Bould has the defensive quartet very well drilled and Vermaelen holds it together.
CM- Kevin Nolan- A portfolio of pesky qualities means Nolan is a handful for any side, but he was too much for Fulham this weekend. He had a hand in one goal and scored another in a teriffic win for the Hammers. This sees him gain a place in our lineup.
CM- Abou Diaby- With a passing style drawing comparisons to that of Arsenal legend Patrick Vieira, Diaby controlled Arsenal's Anfield win with aplomb. His gangly running style seems to take him away from challenges with ease and this set up a great win for Wenger's side.
LM- Robert Snodgrass- Coming from Leeds and the Championship over the Summer, there was soe doubt as to whether Snodgrass would adapt, but a sublime performance that epitomised a battling Norwich display capped off with a well taken goal, meant that his critics are being rapidly answered.
RM- Hatem Ben Arfa- With Newcastle producing a below par performance, they needed a spark to ignite their game. This came from Ben Arfa who rifled a powerful shot into the top right corner to level the scores, in the process, rescuing a valuable point for his side.
CF- Robin Van Persie- 10 chances, 5 on target, 3 goals, 1 penalty won and the same penalty missed; An eventful game for the new United talisman but his trio of goals won Fergie's men a game that threatened to be a banana skin to their Title challenge.
CF- Andy Carroll- His West Ham debut was a shimmering one as Carroll made a general nuisance of himself throughout his time on the pitch, contributing to two goals. An injury curtailed his Hammers debut however, fans have a lot to shout about with their new frontman.
ST- Steven Fletcher- It looked this week as if Sunderland had spent £14million on a player that maybe wouldn't set the world alight. However, his first appearance in the Black Cat shirt was one out of the top draw as his two goals meant Sunderland got a point out of a tricky game against the well drilled Swansea side.
Subs- Al Habsi, Macauley, Diame, Dembele, Cazorla, Allen, Tevez, Lambert
Manager- Chris Hughton
We also give a mention to Neil Taylor. An unfortunate injury means he faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines. Having had a fantastic season for Swansea last year, this will be a big blow to the Welsh side and we wish him the best of luck in his recovery.
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