Off the field controversies spice up North London derby

It’s not as if it needed it, but it looks like we have one hell of a derby on our hands tonight. Aside from the usual chest thumping and football bets being placed, both managers have been side-tracked by their own agendas ahead of what is a pretty important night for both sets of players.

Both teams still need to fight for their lives if they are to leave their mark on the Premier League this season.  Arsenal’s draw against Liverpool was labelled as disastrous, but placed in the context of Manchester United’s stalemate against Newcastle; ground has neither been lost or gained.

Tottenham, following a poor run of form which saw them become the only team to lose to Blackpool in 13 games as the Seasiders plummeted towards the relegation zone, while draws against fellow relegation strugglers West Ham and Wigan, and Wolves is hardly the form of a Champions League side, yet somewhat inexplicably, they still have a chance of overhauling Manchester city for fourth once more, and are just three points behind Roberto Mancini’s side with a game in hand – which just so happens to be a North London derby.

Not that Harry Redknapp or Arsene Wenger seems to be aware of what is at stake tonight.

It is perhaps the Arsenal manager who is trying to douse the most amount of fires before tonight’s game. The Frenchman was indignant following the decision to award Liverpool a very late penalty, an attitude that has drawn a wave of criticism as Wenger has the accusation that his side are over-protected and soft when it comes to the big games levelled at him.

Comments from his club captain will have done little to improve his mood. Cesc Febrages has seemingly admitted what most believed but had yet to hear vocalised – that their trophy-less run that stretches back to 2005 is a weight that hangs heavy around their necks.

“From 2007 I had already started saying we're not winning, but we're playing well. And then you realise that's no use.” The Spanish midfielder said.

"The problem is that the team needs to win something and that's why it was so important to win the Carling Cup (they lost 2-1 to Birmingham in the final).

"You have to make a decision: either go and win, or develop players." He added.

The Gunner’s captain has targeted not only his side’s inability to win trophies affecting their approach to the game as they grown in desperation to be freed from the shackles of their barren run, but also the philosophy that under-pins the ethos of the club. After all what has Wenger worked so hard to build in his time at Arsenal? And if he cannot win trophies then he has always been able to fall back on their style of play – that isn’t good enough anymore according to the captain.

Meanwhile Harry Redknapp has found himself confronting the FA over the fixture list. After the game between Stoke and Manchester City was shifted because of their FA Cup commitments last weekend, a tenuous set of circumstances mean that it could well benefit Stoke if they were to lose the re-arranged fixture.

Why Redknapp has decided to become embroiled in an argument of which he has little control over is a little confusing, and could be a distracting tactic from the pressure placed on his own side to replicate their performances last season, and regain entry to the Champions League once more, a competition they excelled in this time round.

If not already, the game between the two fierce rivals tonight is loaded with potency as the implications of the result are wide reaching, and stretch even beyond the three points on offer. A win for either side would do little harm to both their on the pitch ambitions or their off-field arguments. After a series of dramatic results in recent meetings between the two, and with football betting unable to separate the two - this could well be the best of the lot.

El Clásico - Video Preview

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Spanish Primera - Athletic Bilbao vs Real Madrid - Preview

Following a 4-0 thumping of Tottenham Hotspur in the Champions League midweek, Real Madrid will face a feisty Athletic Bilbao side this weekend. The Spanish Primera title race may be all but over, with Los Blancos now 8 points adrift of Barcelona, but Jose Mourinho has urged his players to end the season strongly. Efforts in the Spanish capital are now surely concentrated on the Champions League, especially with a potential semi-final encounter with Barcelona looming. On the other hand, Athletic Bilbao will continue to target a Europa League finish as their realistic objective this season.

Real Madrid Team News: Karim Benzema, the in-form striker, picked up a thigh injury during international duty with France against Croatia nearly two weeks ago, and has thus far missed Madrid’s agonising 1-0 loss to Sporting Gijon last week, as well as their midweek victory over Tottenham Hotspur. While Benzema was expected to return to action against Athletic on Saturday, Mourinho has allowed him more time to recover. Also in the injury spotlight are midfielders Fernando Gago, Pedro Leon and Sami Khedira, while Los Blancos’ fans can revel in the fact that Kaka and Gonzalo Higuain have been included in the squad. Real Madrid are also involved in several transfer rumours, with highly-rated Internacional youngster Leandro Damiao a possible alternative to Emmanuel Adebayor, who is expected to return to Manchester City in the summer.

The probable Real Madrid starting lineup consists of:
Casillas; Ramos, Pepe, Carvalho, Arbeloa; Khedira, Alonso; Ronaldo, Oezil, Di Maria; Adebayor



Athletic Bilbao Team News: With a place in the Europa League nearly sealed, Atheltic Bilbao’s season thus far has been successful. While they are unlikely to catch fourth placed Villareal who are nine points clear of them, they will surely play an attacking game from the whistle in tonight’s encounter. Fernando Llorente, the fifth highest scorer in La Liga this season, is set to be a key player in Bilbao’s squad, with the striker a potential game-changer.

The probable Athletic Bilbao starting lineup consists of:
Iraizoz; Iraola, San Jose, Ekiza, Castillo; Lopez, Martinez, Orbaiz, Gabilondo; Llorente, Toquero

Previous Encounter: Real Madrid 5-1 Atheltic Bilbao (November 20, 2010)

By Alexander Novo

A-League 2010/2011 Finals Series - Wellington Pheonix FC preview

Perhaps the luckiest of the final six, the Wellington Phoenix FC had to wait until their final game against the luckless North Queensland Fury FC to book their place in the finals series. In what has been a very indifferent season for the boys from across the Tasman, the Phoenix will be out to prove that they aren’t just there to make up the numbers. A strong preseason (six wins from seven games) had all signs pointing to a tremendous season, but football can be a funny thing sometimes. Only mustering 12 wins from a possible 30, the Phoenix will have it all to do when the take on a rampant Adelaide United FC.

The key behind the Phoenix progressing lies in the hands of four people: New Zealand international Tim Brown, youngster Marcos Rojas, a fit and fighting Paul Ifill and the heroics of former Olyroos keeper Danny Vukovic. Tim Brown has been absolutely resolute in the midfield, setting up crucial goals as well as scoring them in times when the Pheonix really need it. Firebrand Marcos Rojas has been a real revelation for the Phoenix, as his skill, pace, accuracy and finesse has really helped set up goals for the Phoenix as his blistering pace has been hard to contain. Ifill finished joint top goal scorer for the club on seven, despite being out since January but there is speculation that he may return to give Wellington some much needed fire power alongside Englishman Chris Greenacre. Brought in as injury cover for regular Mark Paston, the Perth Glory FC bound Danny Vukovic has been absolutely crucial for the boys across the ditch, pulling off some crucial saves, firing up and organising his defence and even scoring a penalty (albeit in the final minute of the final game of the season regular for Wellington).


For all their determination and spirit, it seems that Ricki Herbert’s men will find it very hard to get past a raging and very fired up Adeliade United, with the defence having trouble containing the three pronged attack of Sergio van Dijke, Argentine Marcos Flores and Matthew Leckie. But football is a funny game and weirder things have certainly happened.

By Marcel Abboud

A-League 2010/2011 Finals Series - Gold Coast United FC preview

Watching Gold Coast United FC 2010/11 A-League season has been like being on a see-saw: it’s either up or down, with a rare moment of an in-between. The second season for the boys from the Glitter Strip have seen them ditch the hype that owner Clive Palmer heaved unto them last season and has seen a team with flashes of brilliance at one time or another. Their final position on the season regular table doesn’t accurately describe their form for the season, at times they were struggling for wins and at other times fighting for second place. Their final position sees them finishing in fourth place, with a home semi-final against Melbourne Victory.

While losing want away captain Jason Culina to a knee injury whilst on Socceroos duty, Miron Bleiberg’s recruitment policy during the season saw the return of two time A-League golden boot winner Shane Smeltz from Turkey, the introduction of former Adelaide United striker Bruce Djite, as well as Peter Perchtold from 1. FC Nuremberg II and South Korean Kim Sung-Kil from Busan Kyotong. While their football hasn’t been flashy unlike last season, it has been enough to get them through to the finals series.

Without a doubt, Shane Smeltz will be once again Gold Coast United’s go to man to bag in the goals. Since his return from Turkish club Gençlerbirliği, he has been on the scoresheet in every game. Service from the midfield will be the key to his firing up, as departing midfield dynamo Zenon Caravella will be relied upon to help supply the attacking front.

A cagey and tight affair will be had against Melbourne Victory, with a goal to separate the two sides. Even though the ledger falls in Melbourne Victory’s way, PTA favours a Gold Coast United progression over the two legs with Smeltz playing a key roll. Should Adelaide United win their semi-final tie, it will be hard to see a Culina-less Gold Coast United make it to the Grand Final.

By Marcel Abboud

A-League 2010/2011 Finals Series - Central Coast Mariners FC preview

Perhaps the darkhorses for the entire 2010/11 A-League season, Central Coast Mariners FC have been a revolution both on and off the field. Everyone has been talking about the coaching and player changes at the rampant Brisbane Roar FC, but it seems that the Mariners have flown under the radar (to their advantage it seems). The replacing of Lawrie McKinna with former Socceroos coach Graham Arnold has reaped dividends, as he has managed to transform a team who were playing ugly, dire football last season to this season’s runners up in the reason proper.

While getting off to a slow start at the beginning of the season with two draws and two losses in the opening four games, the boys from up the Coast managed to string in some great attacking performances, no less thanks to mini midfield Argentinean maestro Patricio Perez feeding the likes of hometown hero Matt Simon, Adam Kwasnik and Daniel McBreen to bag in a considerable amount of goals each. Brought in from Gold Coast United FC to replaced departed goalkeeper Danny Vukovic, Jess Vanstrattan suffered a season ending ACL injury. Taking a gamble, Arnold placed his faith in 18 year old Matthew Ryan who has shined this season while taking the A-League record of most clean sheets in a season with 12 (breaking Clint Bolton’s record while at Sydney FC).


Pipping out Adeliade United FC for second spot, Central Coast Mariners booked their double chance spot in the finals on the back of a wonderful season and if they can keep up their form, they may just meet Brisbane Roar FC in the Grand Final.

Defensive stalwart and captain Alex Wilkinson along with Dutch import Patrick Zwaanswijk will hold key to stop any form of attack on the Mariner’s goal, but it’s the midfield that holds the key for the Central Coast. Patricio Perez will be crucial but if along with young Mustafa Amini can fire up and deliver the supply to the attacking front, there may as well be no stopping the Coast on the march to the Grand Final.

It will be hard to see them loose in the finals series, so a Brisbane Roar FC and Central Coast Mariners FC final looks like it's on the cards.

By Marcel Abboud

A-League 2010/2011 Finals Series - Melbourne Victory - Preview

Arguably the most successful club in the history of the A-League, Melbourne Victory have experienced a season resurgence in 2011, just making the top six. A season marred by controversy especially surrounding their captain Kevin Muscat, who, made one of the most vicious tackles in the history of the game.
Melbourne's season was always going to be one of catchup, after their opening round draw against rivals Sydney - where they came back from 2 goals down.

Melbourne relied on in form striker Robbie Kruse for much of the season. The young gun eventually earning an Australian call-up as a result of his stunning performances. Marquee player Ricardinho found his feet slowly at the club, but once he was up and running, Melbourne took creativity to a new level, breaking down even the best of the defences in the A-League. Carlos Hernandez meanwhile, was having that season, where inconsistancy was a regular part of his game.


With the absence of Muscat due to a lengthy suspension, Melbourne wll have to rely on their up and coming stars to pull through, to help the team mount a challenge against their rampant opposition. A loss on the last matchday of the season(Adelaide 2-1) will certainly do harm to the morale. The season certainly has not shaped up for Melbourne. Finishing 5th in the league will add an extra level of difficulty to the final, if they make it.

The five other teams who will contest the knockout round, may have produced a better brand of football this 2010/2011 season. However Melbourne have experience over the field. It may just be the advantage that is needed to carry Melbourne to the summit of the A-League yet again!

A-League 2010/2011 Finals Series - Adelaide United - Preview

Adelaide adopted a different coaching approach in the 2010/2011 A-League season. Coming through the hardest time in clubs history which involved the club going under financial administration, crowd numbers dramatically falling and a disasterous run of performances on the field.

Under new ownership Adelaide began the season by making a host of new signings, including the much hyped move of Sergio van Dijk to the club. But it wasn't van Dijk who would prove to be the instrumental start to the season. Argentinian import Marcos Flores, brought creative flair to the midfield going forward. United's season looked to be in good stead when Flores scored one of the greatest goals in A-League history against the Jets.

This form continued with van Dijk going top scorer of the league. His head proved to be the difference in many games, as well as his physical domination upfront. They took the A-League to a new level comprehensively accounting for the North Queensland Fury 8-0 on their way to the top of the table. Adelaide were on a collision course with the Roar. However Brisbane steamed past Adelaide 4-0, beginning their form slump which was evident for the remainder of the season - they went on to lose 10 of their last 19 games. They finished 3rd in the league after a win against the Victory on the final matchday.

Adelaide have a genuine chance of winning the A-League title this year. However to do so they will need to replicate the form which took them straight to the summit of the A-League. Marcos Flores and Sergio van Dijk will have to lead the team through the knockout phase. With instrumental attacker Matthew Leckie out probably for the rest of season, United will have to push their squad to the limit.

A-League 2010/2011 Finals Series - Brisbane Roar - Preview

After a below average season in the 2009/2010 installment, which resulted in them finishing second last, expectations for the 2010/2011 were simple, qualify for the finals! With the loss of Sergio Van Dijk early in the season to rivals Adelaide it was predicted that the Roar would finish last.



However a host of signings (Broich and Solorzano just a few) brought new talent to the club as well as an entertaining brand of football. The unredictability of the Roar quickly pushed them towards the top of the table. The Roar were rampant against anyone they faced, scoring in nearly every encounter. They ended Wellington's 24 game unbeaten streak at home.

After comprehensively accounting for Adelaide 4-0 who are their closest rivals on the table, the Roar went on to break an A-League record 14 matches undefeated. This was a record in the A-League but not in football leagues across Australia. This soon to be no challenge as Brisbane broke South Melbourne's long standing record of 16 games unbeaten, stretching out the record to 23 games. They were announced premiers a remarkable two games before the conclusion of the regular season.

Lead by Solorzano and Barbarouses upfront the Roar have put a total of 58 goals behind opposition in the A-League. Matched by a solid defence who have considered less than half the amount, it would seem that Bribane is the most well rounded team in the A-League.



As is rightly deserved Brisbane will go into the finals favourites to take out the title. After taking claiming a first league title, the Roar will be confident that they can replicate their stunning for and claim a first A-League Premiership, marking the end of a remarkable turn around after a 2009/2010 season which put the club under alot of pressure from fans and sponsors alike.

Italian Serie A Round 25 - Juventus vs Inter - Preview

The two most successful teams in the history of the Serie A will face each other yet again in round 27 of the Serie A. The rivalry between the Bianconeri and the Neazzurri is one of the most intense in the world. It stretches far beyond the pitch into the ranks of management and with the fans. Recently Inter have asserted their dominance over the Turin giants, however a desperate Juventus side will look to go go one up this season after drawing their first match with the Milan side.

Last season the Derby D'Italia finished one game a piece with both games proving to be absolute crackers. Both teams have had mixed seasons. Juventus on one hand starting brilliantly, but fading off into obscurity, whilst Inter have just started to pick up the pace under new coach Leonardo. Both teams have made a host of new signings in the winter, with Pazzini and Matri about to get their first taste of the historic fixture.

Inter come into the game on a four game winning streak. After a stunning performance in a high scoring affair against Roma, a more defensive lineup is expected. They will also come into the match knowing that a Champions League clash against Bayern Munich is coming up.

Juventus' season is in shambles. With the chances of winning the Scudetto all but lost the Bianconeri will be hoping that they qualify in the top four positions, to ensure not only a Champions League spot but extra funding. Del Neri will also be under pressure, with a loss surely calling for his job to be put under review. Juve will hope that new signings Matri and Barzagli add a new dimension of play to the Turin side.

Juventus Team News: Quagliarella and Iaquinta will be missing upfront yet again, with Traore, Rinaudo and De Ceglie also missing from the squad. Alessandro Matri is expected to partner either Del Piero or Luca Toni upfront. After a good performance last week, Sissoko is expected to start along with Felipe Melo and Alberto Aquilani. Chiellini will be used a left back again after his stellar performances continue to make the flank a less vunerable part of Juventus' defence

Inter Milan Team News: Samuel and Lucio are two massive blows in defence for th Neazzurri. With Milito missing in attack it will be left to Pazzini to find the back of the net. Sneijder will control the midfield in the absence of Stankovic. Chivu is suspended after his terrible conduct against Bari. Rannochia and Zanetti are expected to be the Centre Back pairing for Inter.

As is similar to the Manchester Derby, a host of players will be missing from action. Nevertheless the game will prove crucial to both sides. Juventus will be looking to keep in contact with the top four, and Inter will want to break dow Milan's lead at the top. It is a game not to be missed and home advantage may just play a part.

Prediction - Juventus 2 - Inter 1

English Premier League Round 27 - Manchester United vs Manchester City - Preview

The Manchester Derby is one of the most anticipated matches of the 2010/2011 around the world. Over the last few years the tie has turned into a real unpredictable one, with the sudden influx of money into City allowing them to build a team which would compete with any team in Europe. With both teams separated by 5 points on the table, the match could prove to be a crucial one in the overall scheme of things.

Last week United's stunning 29 match unbeaten streak came to an end, after a less than convincing performance against Wolves. The loss brought the Red Devils back to reality after such a long run which included a number of lucky comebacks as well as some solid performances. Manchester City have been performing more consistantly this year. Although consitantly grinding out wins will not prove to be a successful tactic against the big four.

Sir Alex was quoted as saying that Rio Ferdinand's injury was much more of a worry than United's record unbeaten streak going out the window. United will be gambling with Evans or Smalling to partner Vidic. City also have their own worries in defence to deal with.

Manchester United Team News: With Rio Ferdinand out United will look vunerable at the back which may prove to be costly against Tevez who has been in such great form lately. Smalling or Evans will come into the squad as well as Rafael back in at right back. The recent news that Darren Fletcher may be out of the squad with an ankle injury will leave a massive gap in the midfield. With Valencia still out the Devils will be going into the squad very under strenghted.

Manchester City Team News: Right Back Micah Richards looks to be out after going into concussion, De Jong and Baotelli look to be out, both are close to coming back from their respective injuries, but may not be 100% by the time the game against United arrives. Adam Johnson is ruled out, Boateng will star in place of Richards and Milner in place of Johnson.

With so many players out injured the derby will prove to be a "watered down" version of previous installments of the rivalry. Nevertheless the game should be a high scoring contest with the two top scorers Berbatov and Tevez both starting for their respective squads.

Prediction - Manchester United 2 - Manchester City 3

Asian Cup 2011 - Australia vs South Korea - Preview

In what should prove to be an exciting encounter for both fans on opposite ends (and the spectating neutral), Australia will come up against what is probably their hardest test thus yet in the group stages when they take on two time former Asian Cup champions South Korea. There’s a lot at stake for both teams as a win will secure either team’s passage into the knockout stages of the tournament, while the looser will have to see how results come to fruition with the group’s remaining  games.

Coming from a convincing 4 – 0 win over India in Group C’s, the Socceroos will have it all to do when the face a strong South Korean side who, with a win over the Socceroos, can secure their passage into the knockout stages of the Asian Cup. Although India showed a lot of courage, they were in reality a few classes below the “new found attack prowess” of the men in the Green and Gold. The combination of Harry Kewell and Tim Cahill leading the attack reaped great dividends, as the Australian midfield fed and supplied the back of the Indian net with an abundance of goals. While the Australian defence had next to nothing to do during their encounter with the Bhangra Boys, it can be said that they were found wanting when India did manage to produce a few counter attacking opportunities. This will be severely tested against the speed and agility of South Korea, who are known for the high work rate and their speed within the midfield. Though Australia possess the physical strength and height (thanks to players such as Sasa Ognenovski  and Tim Cahill) to out muscle their opponents, this proved to be the opposite as the last time these two sides met, South Korea came out as convincing 3 – 1 victors.

Although defeating fellow knockout stage hopefuls Bahrain 2 - 1, the Taeguek Warriors were given a run for their money as it turned out that the men from the Gulf were no easy beats. The South Koreans tasks will be made just that much harder as starting centre-back Kwak Tae-Hwi was shown a straight red and given his marching orders after conceding a late penalty. Many Manchester United fans and football enthusiasts will recognise a familiar face as inspirational leader and team captain Park Ji-Sung looks to further galvanise a strong midfield, all the while using fellow English Premier League player Lee Chung-Yong of Bolton Wanderers fame on the right wing. Known to be lightning quick on the break, Lee will be hard to shut down along with the rest of the Korean attack with the Socceroos needing to sure up their defences if they are to withstand the quick feet of the men from the East.

 

A great, attacking game should ensue with not only both sides having a lot riding on the outcome of this game, but the makeup of the entire Group C. A win will see the victor progress, while the looser will be sweating results elsewhere.


By Marcel Abboud - (Facebook Follower) - Football Correspondant

A-League Round 23 - Sydney FC vs Melbourne Victory - Preview

This Saturday (15/1/2011) sees another exciting chapter in the interstate rivalry between Sydney FC and Melbourne Victory. While Sydney FC are experiencing a “mini-revival” of sorts after notching two straight wins against Newcastle Jets and Gold Coast United, Melbourne Victory will be trying to restore some pride after being humiliated 4 – 1 at the hands of a ruthless Adelaide United.

The Sydney Football Stadium will prove to be the defining place for both these teams’ seasons. Anything but a win for the Sky Blues against their nemesis will see their “mathematical” chances of making the finals vanish, as will (perhaps) Vitezslav Lavicka’s position as coach. If Melbourne succumbs to a second loss in a row, Ernie Merrick and his team will be biting their nails as the likes Melbourne Heart and Wellington Phoenix will be breathing down their necks for the top sixth berth.

Entering the heat of the battle, nothing but best from each of these two team’s key players will be expected. Sydney’s creative force of sometimes Socceroo Nicky Carle will be crucial for the team’s chances as he provided the much needed creative spark that the Sky Blues so severely needed this season. While injury has hampered his chances of showing his true potential this season, a fully fit and fighting Carle could just be the remedy that the defending champions need to add some lustre in what is otherwise an immensely disappointing season for both club and fans.

Finnish import Juho Mäkelä will also look to add some firepower into a very limp Sydney attack. His extra time goal against the Gold Coast catapulted “the Surgeon” (as he is affectionately known by The Cove) into fan folklore and into the memories of fans alike, sealing a much needed win scoring the club’s 200^th goal. Combined with Brazilian import Bruno Cazarine, perhaps this partnership is just what the Sky Blues need to save themselves from what is arguably the A-League’s worst title defence.

With charismatic leader and hardman Kevin Muscat suspended for this crucial meeting, defender Adrian Leijer out with a suspected groin injury and with Robbie Kruse out on Socceroos duty, the Victory will need to dig deep and muster a win to cement their position in the top six for the finals.

The Victory will once again turn to creative maestro Carlos Hernandez to launch the platform of a Melbourne assault at Moore Park. When the Costa Rican is at his best, everyone knows about it (particularly the score line). A mainstay to the Victory, “El Zorro” will need to dazzle his way through what has become a “stern” and “desperate” Sydney defence.

The return of Melbourne Victory’s favourite son Danny Allsopp has come at just the right time as an attacking front is exactly what the Victory are missing right now. If fed properly through the midfield, Allsopp can inflict great damage on any opponent and wouldn’t it be great to mark his return to the A-League with a goal in the Big City Derby?

So what will the next instalment of the Big City Derby bring? Who knows. Both teams are at a crucial stage in their seasons with a great importance riding on this game.

Nothing but a win for both sides will suffice.

By Marcel Abboud (Facebook Follower) A-League Correspondant

Asian Cup 2011 - Australia vs India - Preview

After a disappointing 2010 Australian Football will look to recover by producing a successful Asian Cup campiagn. However little known footballing nation India will look to stand in their way. With the momentum of a nation behind them India may just prove to be a tough obstacle for the Socceroos.

Australian football has had a turbulent year, with a disappointing performance in the World Cup as well as a dismal bid for the 2022 World Cup bid, however a new coach in the form of Holger Osieck has seen major change in the Socceroos squad including the introduction of a new generation of Roos who will look to spark and inspired and agile performance.



Ranked 142nd in the FIFA International rankings India are not known for their footballing prowess, the euphoria surrounding the Asian Cup has boosted support for their footballing nation. Their participation in the Cup will certainly boost the support for football in their country.

Australian Team News: Australian come into the match at full strength. All their European stars are avaliable including Tim Cahill, Harry Kewell and Mark Schwazer. Captain Lucas Neil will also be avaliable to sure up defence, however his partners in the backline are still not known. Youngsters Tommy Oar and Robbie Kruse may get a chance to prove their worth for the national team.

India Team News: Indian sport headlines have been dominated by the news that their star footballer Bhaichung Bhutia may be out injured. But after a recovery during the week it is expected that he will start at least from the bench.

Australia's first match in the Asian Cup will prove to be little challenge for a side desperate to reign supreme in Asia

Prediction: Australia 4 - India 0 

Italian Serie A Round 19 - Napoli vs Juventus - Preview

Napoli and Juventus are both coming off losses in the last round, to Inter and Parma respectively. Both teams however have performed fairly well in the Serie A this season both sitting the in the top five on the League table. Having not yet faced each other this season the clash is expected to be one of the best this week in Italy.

Juventus were comprehensively decimated against Parma midweek. Lead by a Giovinco double Parma recorded four goals agains the Bianconeri, something which has not been done this season. During the week Juventus managed to sign Luca Toni who has been included in the squad to play Napoli.

After the midweek loss to Inter Napoli will want to rebound. Leonardo revitalised Inter with his arrival and Napoli were to bear the full force of his arrival. Napoli will want to prove why they are sitting in third place on the Serie A and will hope to do so infront of their home fans

Napoli Team News: Napoli will go into the clash without any injury concerns. Juventus' defence will have to be weary of their three pronged attack lead by prolific goalscorer Cavani, who is backed up by Lavezzi and Hamsik.

Juventus Team News: Juventus have once again a season marred by injuries, including the most recent to star striker Quagliarella, who is now out for the season. Along with this Felipe Melo is banned for three games as a result of kicing a player in the face midweek. Luca Toni however joins the squad after his free transfer deal. Juventus will also be without Buffon, Rinaudo, Martinez and De Ceglie.

The game will prove to be a key match in terms of deciding the top four going into the second half of the season. Napoli will come out wanting to win and cement their position, and may just be too strong for a decimated Juventus side.

Match Prediction: Napoli 1 - Juventus 0

English Premier League Round - Chelsea vs Aston Villa - Preview

As the Premier League gets back into full swing Chelsea take on Aston Villa. After a very unconsistant run of form Chelsea will want to put back to back wins together. Something they have not done in a long time in the League. Facing similar league form Aston Villa sit far down the table, they have failed to show quality upfront, where last season they dominated, lead by Abonglahor.
Chelsea are slowly losing contact with United, City and Arsenal as all three of the big guns have recorded wins this round. Villa have been contending with many injuries, as well as a number of signing who have failed to make an impact on the club.

Chelsea Team News: As has been the case fore a long time now, Chelsea will be without Brazillian Alex at the back. Ivanovic is suspended, while horrid performances from many Chelsea defenders has given Ancelotti a reason to consider playing Jeffrey Bruma. The 19 year old will see the game as a debut as he has not experienced any Premier League action before.

Aston Villa: A long list of injuries once again depletes the Villa line up. However fans will be pleased that Heskey and Young will return, although it is likely that they may make a start on the bench. The other Young in the squad, Luke, is out through injury and will not feature.

Chelsea will be under pressure to perform, especially as all the teams sitting above them on the table have recorded weekend victories. A string of injuries to both teams will see unusual lineups, although Chelsea may just hold off a late Villa charge.

Match Prediction: Chelsea 2   -     Aston Villa 1

English Premier League Round 19 - Arsenal vs Chelsea - Preview

After a short break the Premier League returns and with it some blockbuster matches. Arsenal an Chelsea, high fliers on the table both looking to catch the elusive Manchester United.

Arsenal come into the match with a very poor home form, currently the gunners have lost three consecutive games at the Emirates Stadium. Arsene Wenger has been criticized of recent as his team has not put up a fight against the big guns of the Premier League including their recent losses against Tottenham and Manchester United. The return of Fabregas in recent weeks has brought back some leadership upfront helping the Gunners get back to their scoring ways.




Chelsea will want to return to their winning form found at the start of the season. The blues have been out of form and will hope that the return of their captain to the starting team will boost morale. Both teams have had little to no match time over the past few weeks - mainly due to the weather.


Arsenal Team News: The Gunners still have a list of injuries including Vermaleen, Gibbs and Almunia. Arsenal will be boosted by the likely return of Diaby and the return of Fabregas from their respective injuries. Fabianski's return from injury will see him once again take over the reigns in goal, over youngster Sczcesny who had a brilliant match against United, making a number of stunning saves.

Chelsea Team News: The fact that Drogba and Lampard will both start this match together will be a massive boost to Chelsea, who have offered little upfront in the recent weeks. Both players were instrumental in sparking Chelsea's rampant run at the start of the season. Alex, Zhirkov and Benayoun are out through long term injury. Bonsingwa will be given till kickoff to prove his fitness after sustaining an injury after the Tottenham match.

The game is the most anticipated match of the week and it should live up to it's expectations of a tight affair. Chelsea will play aggresively with the return of Lampard and Drogba, but Arsenal will be more desperate to ensure they do not break their record of four losses in a row at home.

Match Prediction: Arsenal 2 - Chelsea 1

English Premier League Round 18 - Manchester City vs Everton - Preview

The last game of the Premier League before the Christmas break proves to be one of the only games in the league this week as snow has postponed all but two of the games so far. Manchester City are flying high towards the top of the league and a win against Everton will see them move to the top of the Premier League over the Christmas break, although with Manchester and Arsenal sitting just behind both with games in hand.
Everton on the other hand will be trying to move clear of relegation, this year experiencing a less than satisfying season which has put pressure on players and staff alike.

During the week City has experienced much unwanted media attention after Carlos Tevez announced his desire to leave Eastlands. Mancini has called City fans not to boo the captain on the pitch as they still reatain hope of keeping the star strker.
Everton will be hoping that their good record of recent against City will continue. The toffee's have won their lost three visits to Eastlands although injury concerns and poor form will make their job all the more difficult.

Manchester City Team News: Adebayor is in serious doubt with a calf injury, while Nigel de Jong is once again suspended for City. Admist much the controversy of the past week Tevez is likely to get the start upfront, with Yaya Toure, Silva and Milner in behind the Argentinian.

Everton Team News: Everton officials will be sweating on the fitness of Pienaar who has a serious ankle injury, midfielder has been key to many of Everton's wins this year and he will be given until kickoff to prove his fitness, although unlikely. Hetinga is also in doubt but a return of Hibbert may be and option to replace the defender.

The cold weather will most likely see a less physical encounter and many ball controlling errors. City will be desperate to take top spot, which will surely give them a morale boost and maybe help them hold on to their captain. Everton will put up a worthy fight but in the end City should comfortably defeat the Toffees.

Match Prediction: Manchester City 3   -   Everton 1


What do you think? Comment with your prediction, those with correct predictions will have their chance to feature in the English blog next week.

Spanish Premiera Round 16 - Real Madrid vs Sevilla

It's a match pitting the over achievers in the Premiera this year (Real Madrid) against the dismal underachievers (Sevilla) in round 16 of the Spanish Premiera. It is fair to say that Sevilla has been one of the major disappointments this year, especially domestically. Although they will have some confidence going into the game knowing that they qualified to the second round of the Europa League at the expense of  German league leaders Borussia Dortmund.
Still trying to push their title claims after their loss to Barcelona a few rounds back, Real Madrid will be fielding a squad with many bench players as they have a list of injuries and suspensions which may make the task of beating Sevilla that bit more difficult than will initially be expected.

After Barcelona's 5-1 demolition of Espanyol, Madrid will be under a great deal of pressure to keep up with the league leaders. Whilst Sevilla will look to stay in some kind of contact with the elusive top four clubs in the Premiera.



Real Madrid Team News: A string of injuries affects the Real camp this week. The suspensions don't help either, with both Xabi Alonso and Marcelo suspended, mourinho will have to find replacements defensively. Ramos is also out, while Madrids attack will be at a loss with Higuain out again with Kaka still injured. Although the Brazillian playmaker returned to training this week which is surely a good sign for Madrid fans out there.

Sevilla Team News: Kanoute is out injured, while Pedretti is definitely out for at least two games. Also in doubt it star winge Jesus Navas, who will be key to Sevilla's build up play, he will be given until kick off to prove his fitness. Alexis has been suspended, and it was against Madrid of all teams Sevilla would've needed him as he is their key man when it comes to suring up the defence.

Match Prediction - Real Madrid 3  -  Sevilla 1

What do you think? Comment with your prediction, those with correct predictions will have their chance to feature in the Spanish blog next week.

English Premier League Round 18 - Chelsea vs Manchester United - Preview

Once again the English Premier League produces a mouthwatering tie for fans around the world. Chelsea and Manchester United two of the best teams in England this year go head to head in round 18. The game will see the return of Frank Lampard to the starting 1, while it looks as if Berbatov will make a return to continue his socring campaign. United do not have history on their side going into the clash, not winning at Stamford Bridge for eight years. Although Chelsea have been in very poor form of late and will be down on morale heading into the clash. The match promises to be an intense game of football.

Chelsea Team News: The biggest team news to come out of Chelsea this year. the return of Frank Lampard to the starting 11 of the squad will surely give a boost to the team and Carlo Ancelotti. The inspirational midfielder will look to lead the attack against Vidic and crew. Alex is still out as well as Benayoun but Drogba will also reutrn to the starting squad. Chelsea will have full firepower heading into the clash.

Manchester United Team News: The return of Paul Scholes was delayed until January. The experienced midfielder was expected to return before the break, but will not be sufficiently fit for the match. Michael Owen will also be out and the former Newcastle man has really struggled to get matchtime under his belt. Fast paced winger Valencia is still out through injury and will be sorely missed in the creativity department upfront.

Chelsea and Manchester United have produced some amazing passages of football. Both teams consist of World Class players capable of prodcuing moments of brilliance.  A return to action for some of Chelsea's big guns, the blues will look to be in better shape than in previous weeks. United will do into the match knowing that a win will see them go six points clear with a game in hand, which will surely be a nice Christmas present for Sir Alex. With form the only thing to separate the two teams it looks as if this one will go right down to the wire.

Match Prediction - Chelsea 1   -   Manchester United 2

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