Unirea Urziceni 1:0 Rapid Bucuresti
Inter 1:1 Roma
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Unirea Urziceni vs Rapid
Romanian Cup Quarterfinal, 1830 GMT
Romanian Cup Quarterfinal, 1830 GMT
The match will be played in Constanta. These are two very strong teams which are fighting
for European qualification come the end of the season. In the league, they've drawn twice
1-1. Urziceni comes from a 0-0 draw at home against Otelul, while Rapid lost 1-2
versus "U" Cluj-Napoca at their own stadium.
In the Rapid side their is a lot of turmoil as the players are accusing the coach, the owner
has his own problems with the fans and the new-signings have proven they are not quality
ones.
Squad striker Burdujan, has been thrown out of the squad as he hit at the coach for not
playing him, while new signing Joao Paulo got 60 minutes, while he has been with the club
for only 24h.
Unirea Urziceni has a very ambitious staff, led by manager Dan Petrescu, former Steaua and Chelsea player. He's regarded as an idol for the Blues.
I predict Urziceni to get at least a draw and qualify in the worst case scenario on penalties (6/11).
for European qualification come the end of the season. In the league, they've drawn twice
1-1. Urziceni comes from a 0-0 draw at home against Otelul, while Rapid lost 1-2
versus "U" Cluj-Napoca at their own stadium.
In the Rapid side their is a lot of turmoil as the players are accusing the coach, the owner
has his own problems with the fans and the new-signings have proven they are not quality
ones.
Squad striker Burdujan, has been thrown out of the squad as he hit at the coach for not
playing him, while new signing Joao Paulo got 60 minutes, while he has been with the club
for only 24h.
Unirea Urziceni has a very ambitious staff, led by manager Dan Petrescu, former Steaua and Chelsea player. He's regarded as an idol for the Blues.
I predict Urziceni to get at least a draw and qualify in the worst case scenario on penalties (6/11).
Inter vs Roma
Italian Serie A, 1930 GMT
This will be a match between the first two sides in the tables. Inter are first, and haven't lost to date in the Italian championship. Last week was a poor one for the Nerazzuri as they lost 0-2 at Liverpool and drew 1-1 away against Sampdoria. In addition to that mediocre set of results, coach Roberto Mancini cannot count on some very important players mostly through injuries: Ibrahimovic, Cruz, Cordoba, Samuel, Cesar and Dacourt. That means Inter will play with a lone striker, probably Suazo, with 17 year-old Balotelli coming in contention.
Having mentioned the home side status, I'll say that Roma are eager to win tonight, so that they can have a run at Il Scudeto. The Giallorossi do have a good background to climb upon, as the last time they were in Milan to play Internazionale, they've rocked the Giuseppe Meazza Stadium and won 3-1. As for the personel, Roma's coach Spaletti can count on fit again Juan and on fellow Brazilian international Mancini, who was suspended at the weekend. Panucci and Curci are injured, while Cicinho is suspended.
I predict a win or even a draw for Roma, double which is priced at 7/11.
Italian Serie A, 1930 GMT
This will be a match between the first two sides in the tables. Inter are first, and haven't lost to date in the Italian championship. Last week was a poor one for the Nerazzuri as they lost 0-2 at Liverpool and drew 1-1 away against Sampdoria. In addition to that mediocre set of results, coach Roberto Mancini cannot count on some very important players mostly through injuries: Ibrahimovic, Cruz, Cordoba, Samuel, Cesar and Dacourt. That means Inter will play with a lone striker, probably Suazo, with 17 year-old Balotelli coming in contention.
Having mentioned the home side status, I'll say that Roma are eager to win tonight, so that they can have a run at Il Scudeto. The Giallorossi do have a good background to climb upon, as the last time they were in Milan to play Internazionale, they've rocked the Giuseppe Meazza Stadium and won 3-1. As for the personel, Roma's coach Spaletti can count on fit again Juan and on fellow Brazilian international Mancini, who was suspended at the weekend. Panucci and Curci are injured, while Cicinho is suspended.
I predict a win or even a draw for Roma, double which is priced at 7/11.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Juventus vs Torino
Italian Serie A, 1930 GMT
Italian Serie A, 1930 GMT
Tonight fans from all over the world will watch the derby of Torino. It's a huge match. Juventus are third in the table, 4 points behind 2nd placed Roma. The bianconeri lost at Reggina 2-1, on Saturday. They will try to pounce right back. Coach Ranieri will have world class goalkeeper Buffon back between the sticks, while Trezeguet and Zanetti are out. Iaquinta is also available after an injury. Juve will start with Camoranesi and Nedved on the flanks. Del Piero will partner Iaquinta up front.
Torino are 12th and are fighting to avoid relegation. They have to cope with an injury also, as Bjelanovic is out. It'll be a physical approach, as the Granata midfield will most
probably be composed by hard-working players such as Diana, Grella and Barone.
Corini will sit on the bench, as will Recoba, the ex-Internazionale star.
This is a derby and with that been said it's very hard to predict, but with Torino
somewhat safe for the moment and Juve in avid need of three points, one could
only go for a most probable outcome.
I predict Juventus will clinch the Turin derby, with the Bianconeri's triumph priced at 7/11.
Torino are 12th and are fighting to avoid relegation. They have to cope with an injury also, as Bjelanovic is out. It'll be a physical approach, as the Granata midfield will most
probably be composed by hard-working players such as Diana, Grella and Barone.
Corini will sit on the bench, as will Recoba, the ex-Internazionale star.
This is a derby and with that been said it's very hard to predict, but with Torino
somewhat safe for the moment and Juve in avid need of three points, one could
only go for a most probable outcome.
Monday, February 25, 2008
Sunday, February 24, 2008
AS Roma vs Fiorentina
Italian Serie A, 1400 GMT
This are two of the hottest teams in Italian football at the moment. Roma has beaten Real Madrid this week, 2-1, in the first leg of the 1st Knockout stage. That was a huge win. But the Giallorossi are back to domestic business now. They'll face fourth placed FIorentina, without Brazilian star Mancini, but also without his fellow countryman centre back Juan. Roma are one point in front of Juve, who lost yesterday at Reggio Calabria.
Fiorentina are in a dogfight for the fourth spot, the last that guarantees qualification
for the Champions League, the highlight for every player.
La Viola do have a 3 point cushion over mighty AC Milan, and will try to extend that or at least
mantain it.
The guests will have to do without young star Gianpaolo Pazzini, but also Santana and Pasqual,
all through injuries. So, Vieri will partner Romanian superstar Adrian Mutu up front.
I predict Fiorentina will come away with something from this match (4/5).
Poli Iasi vs Steaua Bucuresti
Romanian Liga I, 1830 GMT
Steaua are big favourites to win the Romanian championship this season. cfr has an 8 point advantage though, and last season runners-up have to make sure they put the pressure on
them. Steaua made some good additions to their squad in January.
I predict a vital win for Steaua, priced at 3/5.
Italian Serie A, 1400 GMT
This are two of the hottest teams in Italian football at the moment. Roma has beaten Real Madrid this week, 2-1, in the first leg of the 1st Knockout stage. That was a huge win. But the Giallorossi are back to domestic business now. They'll face fourth placed FIorentina, without Brazilian star Mancini, but also without his fellow countryman centre back Juan. Roma are one point in front of Juve, who lost yesterday at Reggio Calabria.
Fiorentina are in a dogfight for the fourth spot, the last that guarantees qualification
for the Champions League, the highlight for every player.
La Viola do have a 3 point cushion over mighty AC Milan, and will try to extend that or at least
mantain it.
The guests will have to do without young star Gianpaolo Pazzini, but also Santana and Pasqual,
all through injuries. So, Vieri will partner Romanian superstar Adrian Mutu up front.
I predict Fiorentina will come away with something from this match (4/5).
Poli Iasi vs Steaua Bucuresti
Romanian Liga I, 1830 GMT
Steaua are big favourites to win the Romanian championship this season. cfr has an 8 point advantage though, and last season runners-up have to make sure they put the pressure on
them. Steaua made some good additions to their squad in January.
I predict a vital win for Steaua, priced at 3/5.
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Newcastle vs Manchester United
English Premiership, 1715 GMT
The match at Old Trafford finished a set to nil for Sir Alex Ferguson's team. I think this will be a tighter affair. Martins is out for Newcastle, a team which hasn't won a game since
Kevin Keegan is back in charge. First choice keeper Shay Given is doubtful.
Earlier today, Arsenal drew 2-2 at Birmingham, so Manchester United can close the gap to just 3 points with a win.
I predict an away win here, priced at 6/11.
English Premiership, 1715 GMT
The match at Old Trafford finished a set to nil for Sir Alex Ferguson's team. I think this will be a tighter affair. Martins is out for Newcastle, a team which hasn't won a game since
Kevin Keegan is back in charge. First choice keeper Shay Given is doubtful.
Earlier today, Arsenal drew 2-2 at Birmingham, so Manchester United can close the gap to just 3 points with a win.
I predict an away win here, priced at 6/11.
Vaslui vs Dacia Mioveni
Romanian Liga I
Vaslui are in a hunt for a European qualifying spot and maybe they'll get there, even if I can't see that happening. Nevertheless they are in with a chance. Today though, the home team will find it tough against a very disciplined football squad.
Dacia Mioveni has a very good coach, Sorin Cartu, who is an avid fan of the Italian football and tight game plans.
I predict Dacia will come away with at least a point, which is priced at 5/4.
Portsmouth vs Sunderland
English Premier League, 1500 GMT
Sunderland defeated Pompey in the reverse fixture 2-0, just a few weeks ago. But now Portsmouth are back to full strength, and in addition to that they've added England international Jermaine Defoe and Milan Baros to their teriffic attacking force.
I tip Portsmouth to win here, at 3/5.
Romanian Liga I
Vaslui are in a hunt for a European qualifying spot and maybe they'll get there, even if I can't see that happening. Nevertheless they are in with a chance. Today though, the home team will find it tough against a very disciplined football squad.
Dacia Mioveni has a very good coach, Sorin Cartu, who is an avid fan of the Italian football and tight game plans.
I predict Dacia will come away with at least a point, which is priced at 5/4.
Portsmouth vs Sunderland
English Premier League, 1500 GMT
Sunderland defeated Pompey in the reverse fixture 2-0, just a few weeks ago. But now Portsmouth are back to full strength, and in addition to that they've added England international Jermaine Defoe and Milan Baros to their teriffic attacking force.
I tip Portsmouth to win here, at 3/5.
Friday, February 22, 2008
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Fiorentina vs Rosenborg & Tottenham vs Slavia Praga
Uefa Cup, 1st Knockout stage 2nd leg
This is a combined bet. Both home teams from today (i Viola and the Spurs) won away a week a go by one goal difference.
The qualification is within their gasp, and I think it will be a stroll in the park for both today.
Cesare Prandelli told Italian media that Europe will watch the best of Fiorentina in all UEFA Cup matches, so do expect the likes of Montolivo, Mutu and Pazzini to step up and make some show tonight.
In London it'll be one way traffic as Juande Ramos is seeking a third consecutive UEFA Cup triumph. The first two came as coach of FC Sevilla. The Spurs are so aggresive at home and I fear for the Czechs, who were trumped some 2 months ago at Arsenal, 0-7.
I predict wins for the home sides, with a combined price at 7/11.
Uefa Cup, 1st Knockout stage 2nd leg
This is a combined bet. Both home teams from today (i Viola and the Spurs) won away a week a go by one goal difference.
The qualification is within their gasp, and I think it will be a stroll in the park for both today.
Cesare Prandelli told Italian media that Europe will watch the best of Fiorentina in all UEFA Cup matches, so do expect the likes of Montolivo, Mutu and Pazzini to step up and make some show tonight.
In London it'll be one way traffic as Juande Ramos is seeking a third consecutive UEFA Cup triumph. The first two came as coach of FC Sevilla. The Spurs are so aggresive at home and I fear for the Czechs, who were trumped some 2 months ago at Arsenal, 0-7.
I predict wins for the home sides, with a combined price at 7/11.
Leverkusen vs Galatasaray
UEFA Cup, 1st Knockout stage
In the first leg it was 0-0 in Istanbul. Galata were frustrated by some big chances which they wasted against a very resilient Bayer side. The Germans will be very sharp though at home, where
they will grab the qualification to the next round. The Turks will be left rueing the missed chance from the first leg.
I tip a Leverkusen win, priced at 7/10.
Getafe vs AEK
UEFA Cup, 1st Knockout stage 2nd leg
The match in Athens was very tight. It finished 1-1 with both goals coming in the last five minutes.
I do expect a nervy game tonight as well. Neither team will want to leave spaces at the back. I expect Getafe to go through probably on that away goal or after a win; maybe after extratime.
With these have been written.
I predict a draw at half time, priced at 7/5.
UEFA Cup, 1st Knockout stage
In the first leg it was 0-0 in Istanbul. Galata were frustrated by some big chances which they wasted against a very resilient Bayer side. The Germans will be very sharp though at home, where
they will grab the qualification to the next round. The Turks will be left rueing the missed chance from the first leg.
I tip a Leverkusen win, priced at 7/10.
Getafe vs AEK
UEFA Cup, 1st Knockout stage 2nd leg
The match in Athens was very tight. It finished 1-1 with both goals coming in the last five minutes.
I do expect a nervy game tonight as well. Neither team will want to leave spaces at the back. I expect Getafe to go through probably on that away goal or after a win; maybe after extratime.
With these have been written.
I predict a draw at half time, priced at 7/5.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
AS Roma vs Real Madrid
Uefa Champions League, 1st Knockout stage
This is the first leg of an intriguing match-up. Roma will have the second chance going into the game, but still they'll fancy that. With captain Totti back in the team, i Giallorossi will try to defeat the mighty Real at the Olimpico Stadium, on Tuesday evening. Juan should be back in time for
the clash, as will be Panucci.
Some major issues for Schuster, the guests' boss, who will have to do without Sneijder, Robinho, Marcelo and Pepe, all out through injuries. Real Madrid will try to go into the second leg with a positive result from this one. In the group stage, Real drew 2-2 with Lazio in Rome, after leading
2-0.
I predict a draw in tonight's game, priced at 13/6.
Uefa Champions League, 1st Knockout stage
This is the first leg of an intriguing match-up. Roma will have the second chance going into the game, but still they'll fancy that. With captain Totti back in the team, i Giallorossi will try to defeat the mighty Real at the Olimpico Stadium, on Tuesday evening. Juan should be back in time for
the clash, as will be Panucci.
Some major issues for Schuster, the guests' boss, who will have to do without Sneijder, Robinho, Marcelo and Pepe, all out through injuries. Real Madrid will try to go into the second leg with a positive result from this one. In the group stage, Real drew 2-2 with Lazio in Rome, after leading
2-0.
I predict a draw in tonight's game, priced at 13/6.
Saturday, February 09, 2008
Chelsea vs Liverpool
English Premier League, Sunday 1600 GMT
Liverpool and Chelsea have a big rivalry between them.
In the last couple of years Chelsea had big succes domestically, but were thrown out from the
semifinals of the Champions League twice by Liverpool. The Reds have one the UCL in 2005 and
were runners up in 2007.
Chelsea won consecutive titles in England in 2005 and 2006.
Chelsea are unbeaten at home for almost four years now. Liverpool will do without Torres, Agger,Arbeloa, Fabio Aurelio and Xabi Alonso.
Chelsea will have Frank Lampard back, as Mikel comes to the squad having played for Nigeria in the last few weeks.
I say Chelsea will win this one, outcome priced at 10/11.
English Premier League, Sunday 1600 GMT
Liverpool and Chelsea have a big rivalry between them.
In the last couple of years Chelsea had big succes domestically, but were thrown out from the
semifinals of the Champions League twice by Liverpool. The Reds have one the UCL in 2005 and
were runners up in 2007.
Chelsea won consecutive titles in England in 2005 and 2006.
Chelsea are unbeaten at home for almost four years now. Liverpool will do without Torres, Agger,Arbeloa, Fabio Aurelio and Xabi Alonso.
Chelsea will have Frank Lampard back, as Mikel comes to the squad having played for Nigeria in the last few weeks.
I say Chelsea will win this one, outcome priced at 10/11.
Sevilla vs Barcelona
Spanish Primera Division, 2100 GMT
Barcelona has struggled over the last seasons in Sevilla. The Catalans are weak for this match.
A lot of injuries has put coach Rijkard under enormous pressure. Puyol, Zambrotta, Deco, Edmilson, Eto'o are all out.
Marquez and Giovani dos Santos came from their national squad on Friday and will be in the squad,
even though they should be very tired.
Sevilla are buoyed by the come back of Kanoute from the African Nations Cup and the news that Dani Alves, their star player overcame an injury to be fit for this match.
I predict Sevilla not to lose this one, priced at 1/2.
Spanish Primera Division, 2100 GMT
Barcelona has struggled over the last seasons in Sevilla. The Catalans are weak for this match.
A lot of injuries has put coach Rijkard under enormous pressure. Puyol, Zambrotta, Deco, Edmilson, Eto'o are all out.
Marquez and Giovani dos Santos came from their national squad on Friday and will be in the squad,
even though they should be very tired.
Sevilla are buoyed by the come back of Kanoute from the African Nations Cup and the news that Dani Alves, their star player overcame an injury to be fit for this match.
I predict Sevilla not to lose this one, priced at 1/2.
Sunday, February 03, 2008
Cote D'Ivoire vs Guinea
African Cup of Nations, Quarterfinal
It is highly recomended to stay out of this; predicting a winner for a match of the ACN.
Mainly because of the bad temperament and the instability of the black race. But, we have a slight surprise with Guinea getting so far in the competition. Their biggest handicap is that they'll be without the star player, Feindouno (suspended).
Cote D'Ivoire are tipped as favourites for the competition. They have won all three games so far and have a devastating attacking force in Salomon Kalou, Aruna Dindane and Didier Drogba, with Zokora and Yaya Toure coming from behind.
I can only see one verdict here, and that's a win for the Ivory Coast, priced at 2/5.
African Cup of Nations, Quarterfinal
It is highly recomended to stay out of this; predicting a winner for a match of the ACN.
Mainly because of the bad temperament and the instability of the black race. But, we have a slight surprise with Guinea getting so far in the competition. Their biggest handicap is that they'll be without the star player, Feindouno (suspended).
Cote D'Ivoire are tipped as favourites for the competition. They have won all three games so far and have a devastating attacking force in Salomon Kalou, Aruna Dindane and Didier Drogba, with Zokora and Yaya Toure coming from behind.
I can only see one verdict here, and that's a win for the Ivory Coast, priced at 2/5.
Atletico Madrid vs Real Murcia
Spanish Primera Division, 1600 GMT
Real Murcia has lost three consecutive matches and comes to a ground where they've
never managed to win. Their task will be much more difficult because their best striker,
Baiano, is out. Atletico, has lost some momentum lately, but still find themselves in a Champions
League qualifying spot. They beat Valencia 3-2 in midweek, but Simao and Motta will come back for this one. It is a very important boost for the team from Madrid. A bunch of seven second string players are out of this one through injuries and suspensions, but the main men are there to secure a win tonight (Aguero, Forlan, Raul Garcia, Maxi Rodriguez, Abbiati).
I predict a home win, at 1/2
Spanish Primera Division, 1600 GMT
Real Murcia has lost three consecutive matches and comes to a ground where they've
never managed to win. Their task will be much more difficult because their best striker,
Baiano, is out. Atletico, has lost some momentum lately, but still find themselves in a Champions
League qualifying spot. They beat Valencia 3-2 in midweek, but Simao and Motta will come back for this one. It is a very important boost for the team from Madrid. A bunch of seven second string players are out of this one through injuries and suspensions, but the main men are there to secure a win tonight (Aguero, Forlan, Raul Garcia, Maxi Rodriguez, Abbiati).
I predict a home win, at 1/2
Saturday, February 02, 2008
Tottenham vs Manchester United
English Premier League, 1500 GMT
Tottenham have strengthened alot since Juande Ramos was appointed manager.
They beat Arsenal (5-1) to reach the Final of the Carling Cup. Ramos signed full-backs Gilberto (Hertha) and Hutton (Rangers), as well as centre back Jonathan Woodgate
from Boro. The Spurs will try to keep it tight at the back to ensure United's Ronaldo,
Rooney and Tevez won't have space to run into and then Berbatov, Keane and Jenas will have
a chance to beat van der Sar at the other end. United are at full throttle, but haven't been most convincing away from Old Trafford. They are level on points with Arsenal in first position.
Manchester defeated Tottenham 3-1, a week ago at Old Trafford, to throw them out of the
FA Cup.
I predict a positive result for the Spurs (1X), at 9/11.
English Premier League, 1500 GMT
Tottenham have strengthened alot since Juande Ramos was appointed manager.
They beat Arsenal (5-1) to reach the Final of the Carling Cup. Ramos signed full-backs Gilberto (Hertha) and Hutton (Rangers), as well as centre back Jonathan Woodgate
from Boro. The Spurs will try to keep it tight at the back to ensure United's Ronaldo,
Rooney and Tevez won't have space to run into and then Berbatov, Keane and Jenas will have
a chance to beat van der Sar at the other end. United are at full throttle, but haven't been most convincing away from Old Trafford. They are level on points with Arsenal in first position.
Manchester defeated Tottenham 3-1, a week ago at Old Trafford, to throw them out of the
FA Cup.
I predict a positive result for the Spurs (1X), at 9/11.
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