Steaua 0:1 Dinamo

Portsmouth 0:1 Manchester City

Steaua vs Dinamo
Romanian Liga I, 19h45
This is the Derby in Romania. It brings up all the passion, all the excitement of football. It will be a feast as the two teams are in very good spirit. They've just qualified for the groups of Europa League. Dinamo did it in some spectacular fashion. They've ousted Slovan Liberec after losing 3-0 at home (the match was abandoned due to crowd invasion on the pitch), winning 3-0 away and then going through on penalties.
It will be also a Italian affair as the two coaches are both from the Peninsula. Dario Bonetti (Dinamo) played for Roma, Juventus and Milan (appearing in two Champions Cup Finals), while Cristiano Bergodi was captain at Lazio.
Both teams possess great attacking forces and questionable defensive options. That's why I think it will be an even more entertaining game of football.
I predict that Dinamo will not lose, which is valued at 6/11.

Barcelona 1:0 Shakhtar

Portsmouth vs Manchester City
English Premier League, 14h30
Portsmouth have started this campaign in a dreadful manner. They managed to score just once, conceding six as they won none and lost three in the process. They were bought by a sheik this week, but nevertheless I do not think they have time to steady themselves just yet.
City have made big spendings in the transfer market. They caught the imagination of their fans by bringing in Gareth Barry, Roque Santa Cruz, Carlos Tevez, Kolo Toure and Emanuel Adebayor. They won both matches they've played this season, scoring three and conceding none in the process. I think the Sky Blues will have too much for the hosts today.
I predict a win for City, valued at 3/5.

Barcelona vs Shakhtar
European Super Cup, Monte Carlo
Tonight it's the Uefa Champions League Winners against the Uefa Cup holders. Pep Guardiola has won all competition he entered with Barca last season, while Mircea Lucescu has already won this fixture once, with Galatasaray ten years ago.
The Spaniard said that his players should be aware that Uefa Cup winners have won this fixture seven times, as Champions League winners won it just four times.
Lucescu will have all his Brazilian attacking players as his disposal. They will come up against the most feared attacking force in Europe last season, Messi, Henry & Co.
I am expecting a surprise tonight, but my bet will be a safe one.
I tip Shakhtar to score at least once. The value is 7/11.

Liverpool 1:3 Aston Villa

Liverpool vs Aston Villa
English Premier League, 21h00
Liverpool are tipped alongside Chelsea with a good change of claiming the Premier League honours come the end of the season. They didn't do well at all in the transfer market as they lost Arbeloa and Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid. This was one of the arguments of the loss at Tottenham in the opening day of the season. Since then, the Reds managed a 4-0 thumping of Stoke at Anfield and seem back on track. Aston Villa had a poor transfer market also. They've lost captain Gareth Barry to Manchester City, while they captured still injured Stewart Downing. The Villans lost 0-2 at home to Wigan and then 0-1 at Rapid Vienna in the Europa League play-off. They'll play the return leg of that one on Thursday at Villa Park.
Liverpool are unbeaten in 16 top-flight games against Aston Villa. The Reds have won more points against the Villans than any other club (62). The corresponding fixture last season finished 5-0, with Steven Gerrard netting a hat-trick. The Liverpool captain managed to score 10 times against Villa in his career, his biggest tally against any one club.
I tip Liverpool to nick this one. The value is decent at 5/11.

Sunderland 1:3 Chelsea

Sunderland vs Chelsea
English Premier League, 20h45
Sunderland has a new boss Steve Bruce and two good signings in Bent and Cana. They managed to win away at Bolton 1-0 at the weekend.
Chelsea didn't spend much in the summer but appointed Italian Carlo Ancelotti as manager. He won Uefa Champions League twice as coach of Milan and the Champions Cup as player of the same team. The Blues will rely on the power of Drogba, Terry and Essien and the magic provided by Lampard & Co.
I tip Chelsea to win at 1/2.

Ceahlaul 0:2 Steaua

Ceahlaul vs Steaua
Romanian Liga I, 19h45
The hosts are a promoted team to the Romanian top-flight. Still, they do have some experience as they have been in the 2nd Division only for one year after 10+ years in Liga I. Ceahlaul has the home advantage, but Steaua had a great start of the season.
It's early days in the league, this being the first game for the two sides, but the guests have already played three games this season in the preliminary rounds of the Uefa Europa League. Steaua managed to score 7 without conceding and played fairly well in the process. The credit has to be given to new coach Cristiano Bergodi who inspires passion for the game and a positive approach to the tactical side.
I tip Steaua to win this one, with values around 1/2.

I have to brag about an extraordinary success rate of 70,63%

(303 successful tips out of 429 made) .

Chelsea 2:1 Everton

Chelsea vs Everton
English FA Cup, 16h00
This is the Final of the world's oldest competition. This is Everton's chance to get a trophy after 14 years. They have won the same competition in 1995 beating Man Utd. David Moyes is a very good manager, having finished fifth in the league this season, just outside the UCL spots.
Chelsea has finished third in the league, has been eliminated by Barcelona in the Semifinals of the UCL in the most dramatic way. They have to win this. Frank Lampard said after being defeated in the last second of the game against Barcelona just by the away goal "We must carry on".
This is Guus Hiddink's last game at Chelsea. Terry said he gave up asking the manager to stay at Chelsea only at the 20th time they talked about it.
I tip Chelsea to win the Cup, at 1/2.

Shakhtar 2:1 Werder

Shakhtar Donetk vs Werder Bremen
Uefa Cup Final, 20h45
I picked this game because it will be an entertaining one. Think of the venue, the Sukru Saracioglu Stadium in Istanbul. That's the home stadium of Fenerbahce. The passion for football in Turkey is bigger than in any other part of the world and you cannot get a more passionate atmosphere than at this venue.
Both outfits overcame opponents from their respective countries in the Semifinals. And all 4 matches for full of drama. That's probably why there are some suspended players in the two squads: Hubschmann for the Ukranian side; Diego and Hugo Almeida for the Germans. Also German international Per Mertesacker is out injured for Werder Bremen.
I think Werder will be more affected by the absence of their Brazilian playmaker, while Mertesacker will be a huge loss from the defence. Captain Franck Baumann is also doubtful.
The Germans will put their faith in the Peruvian goalscorer Pizzarro, who is on loan from Chelsea. The Ukranians will try to get the ball to the Brazilians up-front: Ilsinho, Fernandinho, Jadson and Luiz Adriano.
Both managers have won European trophies. Thomas Schaaf won the Cup Winner's Cup as a player with the same side in 1992, while Mircea Lucescu won the European Supercup against Real Madrid in 1999.
I tip Shakhtar to win this trophy, with a price that is around 9/11.

Dinamo 3:1 Timisoara

Dinamo Bucuresti vs Poli Timisoara
Romanian Liga I, Sunday 19h30
Timisoara had a good season and find themselves in the title fight, a feat that they could not dream of. The guests have a balanced team, that managed to beat a weakened Dinamo side in the Romanian Cup Semifinal by 4-1. This time it should be different. Dinamo has a great record over Poli, having not lost against them for a decade, until this April in the match I mentioned earlier.
Dinamo has the chance to win the league and get to that incredible competition, the Uefa Champions League. Coach Mircea Rednic will field a very experienced side that will give everything to be sure they will find themselves at the top of the standings come the end of the season.
I tip Dinamo to win. The value is at around 9/11.

Chelsea 1:1 Barcelona

Poli Iasi 4:0 FC Arges

Chelsea vs Barcelona
Uefa Champions League Semifinal 2nd leg, 20h45
This game will settle the team that will face Manchester United in the Final. These are two of the best teams in the world. Chelsea are for sure the best when you judge in terms of strength while Barca are the most attractive team, having score 146 goals to date in all competitions. Still in the first leg, it was 0-0 thanks to a realistic approach by the Blues.
Hiddink welcomes back Ashley Cole from suspension, while Guardiola will be without his two first choice center-backs, Marquez and Puyol.
It will be so tight as Ballack, Lampard and Essien take on Iniesta and Xavi; Ashley Cole and Florent Malouda will make Dani Alves and Messi suffer; Eto'o and Henry will try to test Cech, Alex and Terry. But I think Drogba will make the difference tonight, with one of his best performances.
I think Chelsea has the minor advantage as they play at home.
I tip Chelsea to qualify, priced at 5/4.

Poli Iasi vs FC Arges
Romanian Liga I, 14h00
Arges is a team that has no immediate goals. Today's guests are placed in the middle of the table with no chance to enter the European Cups and also safe from relegation. They have a young and talented squad, play good football, win mostly at home. They haven't won away since October.
Poli Iasi has to escape the relegation squad. The entertainers are coached by ex-Lazio footballer Cristiano Bergodi. They are very good at home.
I expect Iasi to win, with prices set at evens.

Real Madrid 2:6 Barcelona

Dinamo 1:0 cfr

Dinamo vs cfr
Romanian Liga I, 19h45
Dinamo are leaders in the league and aim to play Champions League football come autumn. They are very powerful at home and just thrived when they played against attacking formations, like today. The visiting team are without their captain.
They beat Rapid 3-0 and one can expect quite a show is on the cards tonight.
I tip Dinamo to win, with a price set at 9/11.

Real Madrid vs Barcelona
Spanish Primera Division, 20h00
This is one of the most awaited matches on the planet. El Clasico. This year it will be so special, as Real Madrid managed to put a wonderful run and find themselves just 4 points behind leaders Barcelona.
Robben recovered from injury faster than expected and Los Merengues will welcome his presence. Raul & Co defeated Sevilla away last week 4-2 and had a whole week to prepare this game.
Barcelona are in the midst of a Semifinal clash with Chelsea. They also lost Rafa Marquez for the whole season. The Blaugrana can lose it all in just a matter of days. On Wednesday they play Chelsea away.
Real Madrid has got just this one aim. La Liga. This will be one hell of a footballing spectacle.
I predict more than 2,5 goals, valued at 8/11.

Barcelona 0:0 Chelsea

Barcelona vs Chelsea
Uefa Champions League, 20h45
This is about pride, about rivalry, about success. Tonight footballing history will be written.
Barcelona are tipped as favourites to win the most coveted competition of all. They have a very talented squad, a dream team as most pundits will tell you. They scored 130 goals this season alone, with 90 of them coming from the trio playing up-front Messi, Eto'o and Henry. The midfield is also spectacular with talents like Iniesta and Xavi, who provide the avantgarde with assists. Theire real weakness seems to be the defence, where goalkeeper Valdes and centre backs Pique and Marquez are not world class.
Pep Guardiola has managed to control the team's drive for success and keep low the hype surrounding the Blaugrana, who are facing a daunting task this week. On Saturday they play Real Madrid away, whilst next Wednesday is the return leg of this Semifinal at Stamford Bridge.
These teams met several times in Europe in the last seasons. In two cases Barcelona progressed, while Chelsea defeated the Blaugrana under Mourinho, after a thrilling 4-2 show at the Bridge four seasons ago. There has always been balance between these two. Chelsea have scored 9 while Barca scored 7 in the last meetings.
Chelsea have recovered so well under caretaker manager Guus Hiddink. The Blues won 3-1 at Anfield in a scintilating display of power and control against Liverpool, after being one goal down. The way Lampard & Co played that game was extraordinary and must have put Guardiola on guard.
Didier Drogba looks rejuvenated; he has regained his joy, his morale. He knows he plays for the team. He is the spearhead of the Blues. His presence is so overwhelming for the opposite defence. Puyol and Marquez know that, as the Ivorian powerhouse has scored in the last 5 matches against them.
The fact that three of four teams remaining in this competition are English based is enough evidence for everyone to understand that Chelsea are no underdogs tonight. The sheer strength of Terry, Lampard and Drogba will blow Barcelona away.
I tip Chelsea to score away, valued at 6/11.

Hull 1:3 Liverpool

Hull vs Liverpool
English Premier League, 16h00
Although Hull was 6th in the tables on Boxing Day, they went all the way down having big troubles to retain their place in the top flight for next season. The Tigers really look dreadful in 2008.
Liverpool are hoping to win the title, which is only Manchester United's to lose. The Reds will miss Gerrard, but they had a good season and Fernando Torres will prove his worth today.
I tip Liverpool to win; at 5/11.

Farul 1:4 Dinamo

Farul vs Dinamo
Romanian Liga I, 17h00
These two teams are in opposite situations. Farul are in the relegation zone with little chances of surviving, whilst Dinamo are top of the league day-dreaming of Uefa Champions League football come September.
The fixtures between these two have always been tight, but Farul are awful these days. They have also a very bad pitch that will not suit Dinamo; still I expect the leaders to win even by only one goal and put pressure on the chasers.
I tip Dinamo to win, at 6/11.

Barcelona 4:0 Sevilla

Barcelona vs Sevilla
Spanish Primera Division, 22h00
Barcelona are top of the league standings, 3 points ahead of Real Madrid. But they'll take next on 4 best teams in Spain: Sevilla, Valencia, Real Madrid, Villarreal. And also the UCL Semifinal clash against Chelsea. Of course they are close to full strength, as their only absentee is Abidal.
Sevilla are third in the league and trying to stay there as that place takes them to the UCL groups. They have lost 2 in a row at home to Getafe and at Valencia, but both were in the dying minutes of the games. With Jesus Navas fit, as well as Luis Fabiano and Kanoute, the Andalusians are always a heavy proposition for any opponent, including the Blaugrana.
I expect Barca to win, but it could turn into a big surprise.
I tip Sevilla to score, valued at 6/11.

Vaslui 4:3 Timisoara

Vaslui vs Timisoara
Romanian Liga I, tomorrow 17h30
The hosts are playing good physical football. They have a young coach and a very solid midfield. They use a 4-4-2 formation with very skillful and quick wings that opens up their game so much. The strikers are powerful and very good in aerial combat.
Vaslui fight for a European spot for the second year in a row and have a very good chance to get it, but they need to win every point to be sure of that.
Timisoara are second in the standings with a chance to win the title. They lost just twice in the league, but the schedule looks to get to them, as this is the 5th game in two weeks and a number of players admitted after Wednesday's Cup game that they are tired.
Last season's corresponding fixture finished 3-0 for the hosts. Don't expect that margin again, but go for Vaslui to clinch it and tighten up things at the top of the table.
I tip Vaslui to win, with a value at about 3/2.

Porto 0:1 Manchester United

Porto vs Manchester United
Uefa Champions League Quarter Final 2nd Leg, 20h45
After the draw everyone tipped United to progress from this tie. And even now, after the 1st leg most people go with the defending champions. Still, there are some stats that make Porto favourites. The most important are the ones that shows their brilliance in stopping United's attack at Old Trafford a week ago. In doing so, they were very offensive also, managing more shots on goal and more corners than the hosts did. The Portuguese team lead for most of the match, and when they were eventually trailling, they had the strength to pull themselves together and equalise in the final minutes.
So the momentum is really with Porto now. There are also more feats to be taken seriously. Porto are undefeated at home to English clubs in the European Cups. And that means eleven matches. They also managed to defeat United in 2004, when they went to win the most coveted European trophy guided by Jose Mourinho. Also, in the last years, the UCL reigning champions haven't made it to the Semifinal stage the next season.
Rio Ferdinand and Berbatov are back in the squad after injuries, but United players seem to have lost momentum. And if a couple of months ago there were voices that told us of a possible quintuple, now the Red Devils should be scared because they risk losing not only the UCL, but also the domestic title to a Liverpool side that is in-form and seeks the crown for almost 20 years now.
I tip Porto to go through, which is valued at about 10/11.

Univ Craiova 4:1 cfr

Liverpool 5:0 Aston Villa

Univ Craiova vs cfr
Romanian Liga I, 19h45
Craiova have a very young and talented team, that made very good progress under Italian coach Nicolo Napoli. They are very powerful at home.
The visitors are looking to keep in touch with the leading pack, but are faltering and seem to have internal problems also. The Portuguese players are accusing the Argentines that they don't give everything for the team. Their game isn't impressive at all and I cannot see them winning tonight in a full packed stadium.
I tip Craiova not to lose tonight, with a value as high as 6/11.

Liverpool vs Aston Villa
English Premier League, 17h00
Aston Villa are in a slump right now, having not won in six successive games. Still they were joint fourth with Arsenal coming into the week-end. They have a small squad and fatigue is getting the better of them.
Liverpool won 4-1 at Old Trafford last week to regain their title hopes. Torres and Gerrard will turn on the show again today. They started only 7 games together this season, but did very well by scoring 11 goals between them. The Reds can come just won point behind United if they win.
Liverpool is unbeaten against the first five in the league.
I tip Liverpool to win, at 1/2.

FC Arges 2:2 Steaua

FC Arges vs Steaua

Romanian Liga I, 19h45

Today I am betting again against Steaua. They are bad away from home, but the bookies keep making them favourites. That is because they have the most titles in Romanian football.

Steaua managed only 2 wins away all season and has a low quality squad.

FC Arges are good at home, winning 5 drawing 4 and losing none. They have very good young talents and I tip them to have a good game tonight.

I tip FC Arges not to lose, valued at 7/11.

Athletic 2:5 Real Madrid

Athletic Bilbao vs Real Madrid
Spanish Primera Division, 22h00
Real Madrid were trounced 4-0 at Anfield. They need to bounce back and that is not good news for the hosts.
Los Merengues have won their last 5 against today's opponents. Real Madrid trail leaders Barca by 6 points. The domestic league is the only chance for them to get any silverware this season.
Cannavaro, gago and Guti are out for the guests.
I tip Raul & Co to win, at 11/10.

Dynamo 1:0 Metalist

Dynamo Kyiv vs Metalist
Uefa Cup, 18h00
Metalist have been brilliant in reaching this stage of the competition. They ousted Sampdoria in the last round, 3-0 on aggregate. Also, they have not conceded in their previous six. But they face familiar opposition now.
It's the most successful team in Ukraine, Dynamo Kyiv. A team that has produced great talent, like Andriy Shevchenko. They qualified after winning on away goals against Valencia. Artem Kravets is the danger man up-front, scoring 4 times in 3 matches, including once in a 2-0 win at Metalist in the domestic league.
I tip Dynamo to win, at 4/5.

Barcelona 5:2 Lyon

Barcelona vs Lyon
Champions League, 20h45
In the first leg it finished 1-1. Barcelona are in search of glory, while Lyon has a good UCL record, reaching the Quarterfinals three years in a row.
Barcelona will be without Pujol, but Guardiola stated that the Blaugrana must go in search of the goal, even though a goalless draw would see them through. The talent is so high across the squad, with Messi, Henry, Eto'o, Iniesta and Xavi. Daniel Alves will always push forward on the right-hand side.
With the very large pitch at the Nou Camp, I think Lyon does not stand a chance in front of the hosts' technical superiority.
I tip Barca to win, at 5/11.

Liverpool 4:0 Real Madrid

Liverpool vs Realmadrid
Uefa Champions League 1st knock-out round 2nd leg, 20h45
This is such an interesting game to watch. It will be so tight. But still, I have made up my mind on the outcome.
Liverpool have a one goal cushion from the first leg played at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium. Benitez is known for his tactical approach to the game and the manner in which his troops grind out results. Benayoun is injured for the Reds, while Fernando Torres will play a part in this game only if his presence is needed, as he is recovering from an ankle injury. Daniel Agger is also out. Gerrard will be the best man for the hosts once again.
Realmadrid are trying to get something from this one. Raul has called this match the game of the season, marking that they have to score twice. Juande Ramos will field his best eleven tonight, as he welcomes back defender Pepe from suspension. Robben is fully recovered from injury.
This will be a very entertaining match, with the Spanish giants attacking and Liverpool pushing forward all the time. We will witness outstanding goalkeeping from two of the best keepers in the world, Pepe Reina and Iker Casillas.
I reckon Liverpool are strong favourites for this clash. Still,
I tip this match to finish with under 2.5 goals. The price is 3/5.

FC Brasov 1:0 Steaua

FC Brasov vs Steaua
Romanian Liga I, 14h00
Brasov is one of the best home sides in the Romanian Liga I, being undefeated. In addition to that I can state they are one of the best defensive teams. Razvan Lucescu is a hard-working coach, with good performances also in European football. He took Rapid to the QUarterfinals of the Uefa Cup, two years ago.
Steaua are not that good away for some time now, even though every year they challenge for the title. Captain Radoi, the spirit of the team was sold to Al Hilal. They also have some missing players with coach Marius Lacatus suspended.
I predict Brasov will not lose, with prices as high as 1/2.

Realmadrid 1:1 Atletico

Realmadrid vs Atletico Madrid

Spanish Primera Division, 20h00

Tonight, the Spanish capital will split for the match between bitter rivals, Realmadrid and Atletico. It is not so much about the standings, but as in other derbies is about passion. 

The stats say that Real are favourites, as they won for the last 3 times against Atletico, with the previous two being draws. The hosts are second to Barca in the standings four points behind and have put together a great run of 10 consecutive League wins. 

Both teams will play the return leg away next week in the first knock-out round of the Champions League, but with difficult tasks as Real are travelling to Liverpool with a goal deficit, while Atletico are equal with Porto, 2-2.

Atletico has beaten Barca 4-3 last week, but Real Madrid have a tighter defence which does not suit Aguero or Forlan. Raul has a very good scoring record against today's rivals.

Robben and Gago are out for Realmadrid.

I predict a win for Realmadrid, priced at 7/10.

Portsmouth 0:1 Chelsea

Portsmouth vs Chelsea
English Premier League, 20h45
Portsmouth have somehow got their morale back under caretaker manager Hart. Pompey managed 4 points out of their last 2 games. But now they are facing Chelsea.
A revived Chelsea side under Hiddink which looks very very strong at the moment. It is good to see Drogba running so much. Of course, the Blues got a big scare when they were equalized by Wigan at Stamford Bridge ten minutes from time, but they showed a lot of confidence as they managed to win that game. That puts them 7 points adrift of Manchester United with 3 wins out of 3. Ricardo Carvalho is still out, while Essien is very close to full fitness.
I tip Chelsea to win tonight, with a price about 3/5.

My stats read an impressive prediction rate of 70.44%

(286 successful tips out of 406).

Espanyol 0:2 Real Madrid

Middlesbrough 2:0 Liverpool

Espanyol vs Real Madrid

Spanish Primera Division, 22h00

Espanyol made a great match, winning 2-1 at the Camp Nou last Saturday. But they will have to take another approach tonight as Realmadrid are coming to town.

Los Merengues lost to Liverpool, but they are second in La Liga and have it all to fight. With three points tonight, they can come within 4 points off Barcelona, who play at Atletico on Sunday.

Gago was left out of the squad, as Robben will most probably start this match, alongside Raul and Higuain.

I tip Realmadrid to win, at 9/10.

Middlesbrough vs Liverpool
English Premier League, 16h00
Liverpool have managed a great result on Wednesday, winning 1-0 at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium in Madrid in the 1st leg of the first knock-out round of the Champions League. But it came at a great cost as goalscorer Fernando Torres was injured and hasn't made the trip to Boro. Steven Gerrard only played the last ten minutes, as he is recovering from an injury.
The hosts are on a woeful run, as they have not won in 14 top-flight games. But they managed a win in midweek in the FA Cup. And that should have boosted their morale. Striker Aliadiere is in contention for his first start in 2009.
These two teams have drawn the last two times they've met at Riverside.
I tip Boro to get at least a point of this one, with values around 9/11.

Internazionale 0:0 Manchester United

Internazionale vs Manchester United
Uefa Champions League 1st Knock-out Round, 20h45
The best club competition in the world is back with its knock-out first round. And what a match-up do we have tonight. It's Mourinho's Nerrazzurri against Sir Alex Ferguson's troops at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium in Milan.
Jose Mourinho knows Manchester United so well, as he met them 12 times in the past three years. The Red Devils have got no secret for the Special One as he tries to oust the reigning champions from this early round. Inter will probably have to do without Walter Samuel, but besides that it is a full squad from which the Portuguese will pick his first eleven from. The most probable line-up will be: Julio Cesar; Maicon, Cordoba, Chivu, Santon; Vieira, Cambiasso, Zanetti; Stankovic; Adriano, Ibrahimovic.
The Nerrazzurri sit 9 points clear at the top of the Serie A standings, while Manchester United are 7 points clear at the top of the Premier League.
Sir Alex Ferguson will have big selection problems mostly in defence, where he has just four available players: Fabio, Ferdinand, Eckersley and Evra. Vidic is suspended, while Evans hasn't trained because of an injury he got on Saturday and O'Shea is very doubtful.
It'll be a great match to watch, as a hostful of top-class footballers lock horns in the world's best club competition, the Uefa Champions League.
I think Inter will get the edge tonight. I tip them to win, with prices as high as 7/5.

Fulham 2:0 WBA

Fulham vs West Bromwich Albion

English Premier League, 14h30

Fulham has been very good at home, managing 7 wins in 11 games. Arsenal lost at Craven Cottage , while Chelsea were held to a draw. They are on 30 points, following the mid-week's 3-0 loss at Old Trafford. Roy Hodgson said this is a very important game for the hosts. 

WBA are last but still with great chances to stay up as there is a big battle between some 6-8 teams which are separated by no more than 5 points. They are dreadful away, I have to say. They managed only 1 win.

That being stated, I go for a Fulham win. The price is 4/5.

Betis 2:2 Barcelona

Watford 1:3 Chelsea

Betis vs Barcelona

Spanish Primera Division, 20h00

Betis has problems at the back, while Barca are without Puyol, Messi and Henry.

Betis have won the last two games here against Barcelona.

I tip Betis not to lose, at 7/4.

Watford vs Chelsea
FA Cup, 18h30
There was a big week at Chelsea. Guus Hiddink was appointed manager after a lot of dismal results. The Dutch manager said that the team will go for all three trophies they can still win, even the Premier League title. This Cup fixture is the greatest chance for the Blues to gain a bit of momentum. Terry and Carvalho are out, while Essien started to train again after a lengthy set-back.
Watford are managed by Brendan Rodgers, who was in charge of the Chelsea Reserve team in the last few seasons. He will feel very motivated. Still the Blues have managed to score nine and concede none in the last three matches against Watford, as all three were Chelsea wins.
I tip Chelsea to win, at 4/11.

Tottenham 0:0 Arsenal

Tottenham vs Arsenal

English Premier League, 14h30

This is the derby of London. These two teams have great tradition and beyond that, this fixture produces a great show every time. For example, last season it finished 4-4 at White Hart Lane.

Also, it'll be the first game for both new-signings Andrey Arshavin and Robbie Keane, who was named captain. 

Arsenal are unbeaten in 8 at Tottenham, winning 2 and drawing 6. But they are outside of the top 4 and are missing key players as Cesc Fabregas and Theo Walcott. Tottenham are battling relegation, but since Harry Redknapp took charge they look much more solid, mostly at home.

I favour Tottenham to get something out of this one, with prices at above 1/2.

Real Madrid 1:0 Racing Santander

Real Madrid vs Santander
Spanish Primera Division, 20h00
Preview to follow...
I tip Real Madrid to win, at 5/11.

My prediction rate is over the top again, climbing to 70,1%
(279 successful tips out of 398).

Manchester City 2:1 Newcastle

Cagliari 1:0 Siena

Manchester City vs Newcastle
English Premier League, 21h00
Manchester City is trying to attract world star players to the team, but while Kaka turned them down, they managed to sign the likes of Craig Bellamy and Nigel de Jong. Those two will probably go straight into the starting line-up along with the Brazilian star Robinho who doesn't enjoy his best period of his life if we speak about personal matters. Richard Dunne is suspended for this one. City hasn't drawn a match all season, while they are running on a three-match unbeaten run.
Newcastle is not the most dangerous team around. They will be without Obafemi Martins through injury. In 23 top-flight matches without the Nigerian striker, Newcastle has only won 2. Shay Given is also a big doubt, as he is preparing to swap clubs, with City awaiting. Skipper Nicky Butt is out through suspension. England star Michael Owen will try to win it for his team, even though he is in his last 6 months at the club and plans to leave.
I expect Manchester City to win, with values at around 7/10.

Cagliari vs Siena
Italian Serie A, 20h30
Cagliari are simply unbeatable at home recently. In addition, the Sicilians took their home form to their away matches, having recently drawn at Inter, 1-1 and won at Lazio, 4-1. The man to watch is Acquafresca, who is on loan from the Nerazzurri.
Siena has a poor away form and in addition they miss several first team players, like Codrea.
I tip Cagliari to win, at a price around 4/5.

Tottenham 3:1 Stoke

Tottenham vs Stoke
English Premier League, 21h00
Stoke are a typical English side, that plays physical football. They have nothing special about the way they play. Tony Pullis' men are strong at home, but awful away. Ricardo Fuller is available after serving a 3 match ban. He slapped a team-mate.
Tottenham are underachieving this season. They started with Juande Ramos, but now Harry Redknapp is in charge and he should bring the Spurs to safety.
As for team news, Cudicini will start his first game from Chelsea, after making the switch from Chelsea yesterday. Aaron Lennon, Luka Modric and Jonathan Woodgate may shake their respective knocks in time to feature in this very important game for both teams.
I tip Tottenham to nick this one, at 7/10.

Valencia 3:3 Villarreal

Arsenal 1:0 Bolton

Arsenal vs Bolton

English Premier League, 16h00

Bolton are a decent side, coasting somewhere in the middle of the tables. They've put together a great run in November, but since then the Trotters have struggled. Kevin Nolan is out for the visitors today.

Arsenal have put up a great run of 6 without losing, their longest since last March. They've also won the last five against Bolton, having beaten them away 3-1 this season in a one sided game.

Still, the Gunners are without Fabregas, Gallas, Walcott, Silvestre. Kolo Toure is their new captain, after withdrawing his transfer request. Adebayor and van Persie will lead the front line for Arsene Wenger's troops.

I tip Arsenal to win, at 2/5.

Valencia vs Villarreal

Spanish Primera Division, 22h00

Villarreal have now lost 4 in a row, 3 in La Liga; against Sevilla, Barcelona and Real Madrid. And from title contenders they slipped up to 7th place. After being undefetead in the first seven away matches of the season, they've lost 2 in a row. Nihat is expected to miss tonight's game, which means Llorente will get a start alongside Rossi. The Yellow Submarine will try to get a win at Mestalla, where they come up against a blisterring attack. We'll see magical football tonight.

Valencia are second in the tables, 11 points behind Barca. They do have a good record at home, winning 7 and losing twice. Miguel is the only absentee from the home side. Coach Unai Emery will once again put a string of technically gifted players up-front: Joaquin, David Silva, Mata and David Villa. The midfielders Baraja and Albelda have lots of experience also, having played two Uefa Champions League Finals. In their last game, Valencia defeated Atletico Madrid, 3-1.

I tip Valencia to nick this, at a huge value (evens).

Real Madrid 1:0 Villarreal

Real Madrid vs Villarreal

Spanish Primera Division, 17h00

Real Madrid are trying to find some momentum so they can charge for another title. Of course, they are fifth, 12 points behind leaders Barcelona, but some important players will be back from injuries and suspensions. The likes of Sergio Ramos, Pepe, Heinze, Sneijder and Huntelaar are close to full fitness and are all touted for starts tonight against Villarreal. Raul will lead the Merengues attack as always.

The Yellow Submarine has an awful record against Real Madrid. In their 10-year Primera Division history, they managed only one win over the most coveted team in football history. They will try to overdue that handicap and with Giuseppe Rossi and Nihat in front, the guests will try to produce the shock at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium in Madrid.

I tip Real Madrid to win it, at 3/4.

I have to brag about a formidable rate of succes.

69.9% (274 correct tips out of 392).

Aston Villa 2:2 Arsenal

Aston Villa vs Arsenal

English Premier League, 17h15

Arsenal have had a bad season so far. They are fifth in the standings. Although they haven't lost against the big guns beating United and Chelsea whilst drawing with Liverpool, they managed to lose 5 times. In addition to that, they have to face a lot of injuries and suspensions. Cesc Fabregas is the latest of the casulties. He joins Walcott and Rosicky on the sidelines. Adebayor will be suspended for tonight's clash.

Villa is 3rd and aims to finish in the top four. They are in great form at the moment. Also, they won at the Emirates 2-0 about a month ago. Their pacey attacking men, Agbonlahor and Ashley Young have done a lot of damage and one can expect that with Arsenal's gung-ho style, they will do it again.

I tip Aston Villa not to lose. The value of the bet is 1/2.

West Ham 0:1 Aston Villa

West Ham vs Aston Villa

English Premier League

West Ham managed a great game last Sunday at Stamford Bridge against Chelsea, drawing 1-1. The Hammers blocked 17 shots then, more than any other team this season. But manager Gianfranco Zola hasn't had the best start in the Premier League. His team scored 5 goals in the first two matches, but then did the same in the following 11 !!! They haven't won a game against the top eight teams. With Dean Ashton and Gabbidon still injured the situation is still bad. Meanwhile the Icelandic owner is lining up ofers to seel the club.

Aston Villa are sitting fourth, above Arsenal and that is a great achievement for Martin O'Neill. They are great away from home, having great speed on the wings with Agbonlahor and Ashley Young. Their last away game was a 3-2 win at Everton, after they managed a 2-0 win at the Emirates.

Although seven of the last eight games of this fixtures finished in draws, I believe Villa will win this.

I tip Aston Villa not to lose, with prices as high as 2/5.

Sevilla 1:0 Villarreal

Hoffenheim 1:1 Schalke

Fiorentina 2:0 Catania

Sevilla vs Villarreal

Spanish Primera Division, 19h00

Villarreal and Sevilla are in the UCL zone, 2nd and 4th respectively. Villarreal has almost kept up with Barca's pace, as the Yellow Submarine managed to lose only once this season, at home to Valladolid. Away they are very good, having won 4 and drawn 3. Also they managed a good UCL campaign, drawing twice against Manchester United and finishing second in their group. On Wednesday they've lost 2-0 at Celtic. 

The guests are without right back Javi Venta and also with three of their most important front-men: Cani, Nihat and Rossi. Let's say they have a scarce record at Sevilla, where they haven't managed to score more than once in a game and haven't won to date.

Sevilla come to this match after beating Real Madrid 4-3 at the Bernabeu. Their morale couldn't be higher. Also, Luis Fabiano, their most important goalscorer comes back after a one match suspension. Manolo Jimenez has a great pair at the back in the two Frenchmen, Squillaci and Escude. The fact that Jesus Navas is available will be the main factor in today's outcome. The right wing man will come the crosses for the likes of Luis Fabiano and Kanoute.

I tip Sevilla to win tonight. The value is at about 11/10.

Hoffenheim vs Schalke 04

German Bundesliga, 17h00

I usualy don't analyze German domestic fixtures, because they are so unpredictable. But this one has a great value, so I will plunge right in it. Schalke is a title contender each year. They play in the European competitions each year, they have a strong owner and last but not least a state of the art venue. Hoffenheim are newcomers in the German top-flight. They have a very ambitios owner who brought them up from the 7th league in about 15 years.

Now, Schalke are struggling to keep up with the front pack as the have a mediocre season. They are not at all consistent at the moment. Some info about the players: captain Bordon comes back after an injury, while goalscorer Kevin Kuranyi is sidelined and won't be on the field tonight.

Hoffenheim is second at the moment and has a great chance of finishing top of the tables come winter, as they are just one point behind FC Bayern.

Their coach Ralf Ragnick, also the coach that won the most points with Schalke (he was fired in 2006), has don wonders with a very young team. He has two Brazilians in the midfield, with the man to watch being Carlos Alberto. In attack there are three goalscoring machines: Ibisevic(24), Obasi and Demba Ba, with the last two being also very physical in their approach of the game. That is the main advantage of the home side in my eyes.

I back Hoffenheim to win, at 6/5.

Fiorentina vs Catania

Italian Serie A, 15h00

Coach Zenga  managed a good run with relegation favourites Catania, picking almost all the points at home in the process. Away they were pretty good too, managing to lose by only one goal at Milan and Inter and drawing at Juve. They will have to do without Mascara in Florence though, who is their most versatile player. Of course their defence is strong, but the men from Sicily will have the most prolific attacking pair in Serie A, Mutu and Gilardino. These two have 17 goals between them.

Fiorentina are qualified for the Uefa Cup knock-out stage after they managed to finish 3rd in the UCL group. La Viola are fighting for the top four places in the Serie A, so they can qualify again for the European top-flight competition next season. The absentees for Prandelli will be Felipe Melo, Jorgensen and Dainelli, but the sheer attacking prowess will lead the host side to victory.

I back Fiorentina for a win, which is priced at 1/2.