2018
Youth Cup Group Stage Final Round Matches
It’s the final round of group stage fixtures in the Youth Cup on Saturday, so what better time to have a quick preview and see what it means for qualification for the Knockout Stages of the Youth Cup and Youth Shield.
Remember:
- Top two in each Group qualify for the Youth Cup
- Everyone else goes into the Youth Shield
- Best 10 Group Winners get a bye into the 2nd Knockout Round of the Cup
- Best 10 third placed teams get a bye into the 2nd Knockout Round of the Shield
- Leaving the remaining 12 to play in Round 1
- 6 winners from R1, plus 10 byes leaves 16 in R2
- Losers are out - not entry into the Shield
- All Rounds will be over two legs, home and away
- Same format for Cup and Shield
Apologies if the formatting of the tables is a bit funny, not much I seem to be able to do about that.
Group A
| Team | W | D | L | SD | PTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Juventus | 3 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 10 |
| Benfica | 2 | 2 | 1 | 3 | 8 |
| Bayern Munich | 2 | 1 | 2 | -2 | 7 |
| Atletico Madrid | 0 | 2 | 3 | -4 | 2 |
Benfica host holders Juventus in their final group game, knowing that they need to win to guarantee qualification for the Cup knockout stage. Anything less, and they will be relying on Bayern failing to beat winless Atletico in Madrid. The German giants know that a draw won't be enough due to the Portuguese club's far superior goal difference.
Group B
| Team | W | D | L | SD | PTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Real Madrid | 4 | 1 | 0 | 4 | 13 |
| Manchester City | 1 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 5 |
| Manchester United | 1 | 2 | 2 | -1 | 5 |
| Barcelona | 0 | 3 | 2 | -3 | 3 |
Winless Barcelona host Manchester United knowing that they must win to have any hope of qualifying for the Cup knockout stage. Even a win might not be enough for Barca if Manchester City can take a point or more from Group B winners Real Madrid.
Group C
| Team | W | D | L | SD | PTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hamburger SV | 3 | 1 | 1 | 4 | 10 |
| Anderlecht | 2 | 3 | 0 | 4 | 9 |
| Aston Villa | 1 | 2 | 2 | -3 | 5 |
| Chelsea | 1 | 0 | 4 | -5 | 3 |
Hamburg and Anderlecht both qualified already, so their final games, at home to Villa and Chelsea, respectively, will decide if either will get a bye as one of the best 10 group winners.
Group D
| Team | W | D | L | SD | PTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Espanyol | 5 | 0 | 0 | 13 | 15 |
| Independiente | 3 | 0 | 2 | 3 | 9 |
| Club Brugge | 2 | 0 | 3 | -3 | 6 |
| Dinamo Zagreb II | 0 | 0 | 5 | -13 | 0 |
Group D winners Espanyol host second placed Independiente, for whom even a defeat could be good enough for qualification for the Cup knockout stage. That will depend on Club Brugge failing to beat a completely pointless Zagreb team, a result on which the bookies are refusing to accept bets.
Group E
| Team | W | D | L | SD | PTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Genoa | 2 | 3 | 0 | 2 | 9 |
| Hoffenheim | 2 | 1 | 2 | 4 | 7 |
| Napoli U21 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 7 |
| Sassuolo | 1 | 1 | 3 | -6 | 4 |
Hoffenheim host Sassuolo knowing they must win to almost certainly guarantee qualification for the Cup knockout stage. Anything less could let in Napoli, who must beat leaders Genoa at home to qualify. Genoa need to avoid defeat, while Sassuolo are realistically out of it with their -6 goal difference.
Group F
| Team | W | D | L | SD | PTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liverpool | 3 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 10 |
| Newcastle United | 3 | 0 | 2 | -1 | 9 |
| Levante | 2 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 6 |
| FC Bordeaux | 1 | 1 | 3 | -2 | 4 |
Levante travel to Bordeaux knowing only victory will offer them any hope of qualification. They would still need Newcastle to lose at home to leaders Liverpool.
Group G
| Team | W | D | L | SD | PTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sevilla | 3 | 1 | 1 | 6 | 10 |
| Borussia Monchengladbach | 3 | 1 | 1 | 5 | 10 |
| AC Milan | 2 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 7 |
| Roma | 0 | 1 | 4 | -12 | 1 |
Winless wonders Roma have nothing to play for as they host Monchengladbach in their final game. That leaves Milan praying for a three points and a miracle at home to leaders Sevilla.
Group H
| Team | W | D | L | SD | PTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SS Lazio | 3 | 0 | 2 | 5 | 9 |
| Villarreal | 3 | 0 | 2 | -2 | 9 |
| Celta Vigo | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 8 |
| Atalanta | 0 | 2 | 3 | -4 | 2 |
Villarreal could be home and dry if manager Bruin hadn't decided it was more important for him to go sun himself on a beach somewhere. As a consequence, they will need to avoid defeat at home against fellow Spaniards Celta Vigo, who must win. Leaders Lazio can win the group at winless Atalanta.
Group I
| Team | W | D | L | SD | PTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dynamo Kyiv | 2 | 2 | 1 | -1 | 8 |
| Inter Milan | 2 | 1 | 2 | 4 | 7 |
| Leverkusen | 1 | 3 | 1 | -1 | 6 |
| Malaga | 2 | 0 | 3 | -2 | 6 |
Group I has become this season's 'Group of Death' with just two points separating top from bottom. Leverkusen host Malaga with both teams need to win. If they fail, Inter know that a draw would be enough for them in their home tie with leaders Kyiv. Tight!
Group J
| Team | W | D | L | SD | PTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sporting | 4 | 1 | 0 | 6 | 13 |
| Sampdoria | 4 | 0 | 1 | 6 | 12 |
| Southampton | 0 | 2 | 3 | -6 | 2 |
| PSV | 0 | 1 | 4 | -6 | 1 |
Group J is completely the opposite to Group I, with Sporting and Sampdoria comfortably qualified already, and facing off in Italy to see who will be group winners and get a bye into the second round of the Cup knockout stage.
Group K
| Team | W | D | L | SD | PTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bremen | 3 | 1 | 1 | 4 | 10 |
| Torinio | 2 | 1 | 2 | -1 | 7 |
| FC Basel | 2 | 0 | 3 | -1 | 6 |
| AZ | 2 | 0 | 3 | -2 | 6 |
Leaders Bremen host Basel knowing that only a heavy defeat is likely to put their qualification at risk, and only then if Torino overcome AZ at home.
Season 8 Division 5 stats and facts
Division 5 stats and fact. Season 8.
Bremen and Dynamo defy the odds. Baggies and Santos favourites.
For obvious reasons there is a distinct tail off in ratings when you hit D5.
There is no through traffic, mainly down and then up again, at least in theory.
West Brom are lucky to have a 90 rated keeper in all respects , after his mega generous rise in the ratings. Except West Ham they need fear no attack. They lack any real depth so maybe no cup run, will fitness be an issue?
Santos have a great keeper and as good a midfield as West Brom and with more depth could hope for a late run.
Independiente could secure their future with a better keeper, considering there are 87 rated keepers at externals which is why they sit 12th at the moment.
Bruge are playing to form at the moment and with a well balanced squad they could well get into the playoffs this season.
To survive D4 you need 218 + points so we need to draw the line at Bruge unless we are looking at a return to sender promotee this season.
Bremen are skilfully using their strong midfield at the moment to thwart others but will they be a victim of their own success early doors.
At the wrong end , no relegation, just the sack race to avoid. Terrible start for River Plate and Malaga who should sit higher. They will move up so should Besitkas , Feyenord and Bordeaux find it tough as predicted it could be anyone of around 8 teams in the mix.
Having said that unlike the other divisions, the predicter works less well here.
| GK | DEF | MID | ATT | Top18 | Ave | ETOT | ||
| West Bromwich Albion | 90.0 | 88.3 | 88.5 | 88.0 | 82.0 | 87.4 | 219.24 | |
| Santos FC | 89.0 | 87.5 | 88.5 | 88.0 | 86.0 | 87.8 | 219.00 | |
| West Ham United | 87.0 | 86.8 | 88.0 | 89.5 | 86.0 | 87.5 | 218.74 | |
| Independiente | 85.0 | 88.3 | 87.5 | 88.5 | 85.0 | 86.9 | 218.53 | |
| Club Brugge KV | 87.0 | 87.3 | 88.3 | 88.0 | 86.0 | 87.3 | 218.36 | |
| River Plate | 88.0 | 88.5 | 87.8 | 87.0 | 85.0 | 87.3 | 218.31 | |
| Málaga CF | 88.0 | 87.5 | 88.0 | 87.5 | 86.0 | 87.4 | 218.16 | |
| Flamengo | 87.0 | 87.3 | 88.3 | 87.5 | 86.0 | 87.2 | 218.04 | |
| Udinese Calcio | 87.0 | 87.3 | 87.5 | 88.0 | 85.0 | 87.0 | 217.64 | |
| Montpellier HSC | 88.0 | 86.3 | 87.8 | 88.5 | 85.0 | 87.1 | 217.49 | |
| FC Twente | 87.0 | 87.0 | 87.8 | 87.5 | 85.0 | 86.9 | 217.32 | |
| Dynamo Moskva | 88.0 | 86.8 | 87.3 | 88.0 | 85.0 | 87.0 | 217.16 | |
| Rubin Kazan | 87.0 | 86.8 | 87.8 | 87.5 | 85.0 | 86.8 | 217.12 | |
| Lille OSC | 85.0 | 87.8 | 87.3 | 87.5 | 83.0 | 86.1 | 217.04 | |
| Bremen | 88.0 | 86.5 | 88.0 | 87.0 | 86.0 | 87.1 | 217.03 | |
| Augsburg | 87.0 | 86.8 | 87.5 | 88.0 | 83.0 | 86.5 | 217.00 | |
| Stuttgart | 87.0 | 86.5 | 87.3 | 88.0 | 84.0 | 86.6 | 216.72 | |
| Girondins Bordeaux | 87.0 | 86.8 | 86.5 | 88.5 | 84.0 | 86.6 | 216.65 | |
| Feyenoord | 87.0 | 87.0 | 87.3 | 87.0 | 85.0 | 86.7 | 216.59 | |
| Besiktas JK | 88.0 | 86.0 | 87.0 | 86.5 | 85.0 | 86.5 | 215.39 |
Season 8 division 4 stats and facts
Division 4 season 8 stats and facts.
Monaco to go up , should do! Espanyol should lead rest of pack.
Monaco are the best team in Division 4 and would also be equally highly ranked in Division 3. Anything other than a convincing title performance would be calculated by all as an abject failing by a team that for some reason stuggles to perform more often than not.
Espanyol also have a well balanced side with good depth , they would also fancy a top 3 finish in the division above so should finish 2nd.
Celta in 3rd are really the only top rated team performing well at the moment, perhaps lacking the depth of the other 2 and an older starting eleven perhaps will cost them in the end .
To survive in D3 you need around 218 rating points , so almost the entire D4 line up with the exception of the lowest 4 rated could survive , to be in with a chance of an additional promotion you would need around 220 points which bodes well for any team down to Partizan.
Partizan and Villa could well be strongest in the cup, although each has suffered one early exit.
Olympiacos are an interesting prospect a good keeper and attack. Long ball game perhaps as a midfield battle won't succeed.
Great starts by Basel and Levante who are rated in the top 10 but are rightly over performing at the moment.
At the wrong end it will be a struggle. Last year the same system got 3/4 relegated team and no team outside the lowest 6 was relegated.
So it looks bad for Cruziero and Zagreb although fair enough to Zagreb it looked that way last season and they were the only teams in the lowest 4 to make it.
Spartak also lack depth , Kiev on the other hand may have sufficient in the tank to pull clear in the 2nd half of the season.
| GK | DEF | MID | ATT | Top18 | Ave | ETOT | ||
| AS Monaco | 88.8 | 88.8 | 90.3 | 93.5 | 88.0 | 89.9 | 225.19 | |
| RCD Espanyol | 91.0 | 88.5 | 89.0 | 89.5 | 87.0 | 89.0 | 221.54 | |
| CELTA VIGO | 90.0 | 88.5 | 88.8 | 88.0 | 86.0 | 88.3 | 220.12 | |
| Atalanta BC | 89.0 | 88.0 | 87.8 | 90.0 | 85.0 | 88.0 | 219.98 | |
| FC Basel | 88.0 | 87.5 | 88.5 | 89.5 | 87.0 | 88.1 | 219.98 | |
| FK Partizan | 87.0 | 88.0 | 88.5 | 89.0 | 87.0 | 87.9 | 219.93 | |
| Aston Villa | 89.0 | 87.5 | 87.8 | 90.0 | 86.0 | 88.1 | 219.70 | |
| Levante UD | 87.0 | 88.0 | 88.8 | 88.5 | 86.0 | 87.7 | 219.69 | |
| Boca Juniors | 88.0 | 87.3 | 88.5 | 89.5 | 86.0 | 87.9 | 219.66 | |
| Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk | 88.0 | 87.8 | 87.8 | 88.5 | 86.0 | 87.6 | 218.81 | |
| Olympiacos | 89.0 | 87.5 | 87.5 | 89.0 | 85.0 | 87.6 | 218.73 | |
| Crystal Palace | 87.0 | 87.5 | 88.0 | 88.0 | 86.0 | 87.3 | 218.36 | |
| Cologne | 87.0 | 87.8 | 87.8 | 88.0 | 86.0 | 87.3 | 218.36 | |
| Torino | 89.0 | 87.3 | 88.0 | 87.5 | 86.0 | 87.6 | 218.08 | |
| Stoke City | 88.0 | 87.5 | 87.8 | 88.0 | 84.0 | 87.1 | 218.04 | |
| AZ Alkmaar | 88.0 | 88.0 | 86.5 | 88.5 | 86.0 | 87.4 | 218.01 | |
| Olympique Marseille | 87.0 | 87.3 | 87.8 | 88.0 | 86.0 | 87.2 | 217.96 | |
| Swansea City | 87.0 | 87.0 | 87.3 | 88.0 | 85.0 | 86.9 | 217.24 | |
| Dinamo Zagreb | 85.0 | 87.9 | 87.0 | 87.0 | 85.0 | 86.4 | 216.83 | |
| Cruzeiro | 87.0 | 87.3 | 86.5 | 87.5 | 83.0 | 86.3 | 216.28 |
Top 100 Top Game Predictions – Turn 8
So the second addition of predictions has arrived, eagerly anticipated by at least 2 people, so without further ado, lets start.
Division 1
Arsenal vs Spurs
Having looked at the games this week nothing stood out as special, other than a London derby.
On paper this looks like a tight affair, but the teams couldn’t be performing more differently. Arsenal sit 4th with Spurs way down in 17th. Bowes side have notched up 7 wins in their last 8 games all told and are performing well. It’s a very strong first team and with any amount of depth in there. With no first team injuries or suspensions, Bowes will be expecting to put out his strongest side for this.
Spurs by contrast have picked up just one win all season, and that was against the equally pants Internacional. Goals have been hard to come by for Foxy Piero’s side, but not as hard as clean sheets, with them so far keeping out the opposition on a massive no occasions. Its hard to see why the side are underperforming so badly, it’s a good team with plenty of good players, but perhaps bad tactics, poor motivation, bad luck, or just being hated by the gods of RNG have contributed to the current situation.
So as mentioned, a good match-up on paper, but an awful match-up on form. I’ll take Arsenal to carry on carrying on and win this by a couple.
Arsenal 2-0 Spurs
Division 2
Villarreal vs Genoa
This promised to be a tight affair as 6th play 7th.
Villarreal have looked a little patchy this season so far, some stonking good wins followed by some awful losses and the only thing they’ve been consistent about is being inconsistent. Gangster’s side look ok at this level, a decent starting 11, but a poorer aging second string. They’re not bad right through the side but lack any stand out quality, unlike their opponents.
Genoa looks a class above their opposition here, with at least 4 potential match winners in the side. They also recently picked up Andy Robertson from some mug (honestly, who’s stupid enough to sell him!) and have a lot of quality right through the side. They didn’t get off to the best of starts but have been playing well over the last few games and look like a tough opponent. The team also has some sort of Merseyside vibe to it I can’t quite put my finger on…
Villarreal aren’t bad, but I can’t see past Genoa here and fancy their firepower to be too much for Villarreal.
Villarreal 0-2 Liverpool Genoa.
Division 3
Hellas Verona vs Chievo Verona - Derby della Scala
Division 3 was another where nothing immediately jumped out, but this looks the most interesting game on paper. Or Word, more specifically.
Hellas have enjoyed a good start to the season and have just 1 league defeat so far. They’ve been scoring plenty and kept it fairly tight at the back at the same time. Despite this, they find themselves 5 points from top of the table Liege who have been steamrollering opposition, so will be hoping they can keep their momentum up to challenge at the top. It’s a fairly solid side for this division, especially across the middle where they have a glut of options. Its also a relatively young side and has fair scope to improve going forward. All in all a bright future looks on the horizon for Libras-Boas side.
Chievo made a fairly poor start to the season and dropped a lot of points. They’ve got back on the boil recently with 3 wins from 3 however and will also be hoping their momentum carries them forward. The side isn’t as strong as Hellas’s though, and they’re another team who are noticeably weaker at the back than other areas. They’ll be relying on their midfield to cover most of the work here, and while it’s a good midfield, its simply not as good as their opponents. Chievo have scored a fair amount this season though, so if they can get ahead they may be able to grind a result out.
Looking at the two sides its hard not to fancy Hellas for this, a strong side and better form, couple that with home advantage and I think Chievo’s mini revival will come to a halt here.
Hellas V 2-1 Chievo V
Division 4
Levante vs Celt Vigo
This was an easy game to pick as 2nd play 3rdwith just 1 point between them.
Levant have been excellent so far this season and might be forgiven for wondering just how they aren’t top (they should probably write to Dr. Martinez about this, but its unlikely they’ll be able to understand the Dr’s hand writing in any reply). It’s a strong side at this level and unlike every team I looked at last week, have decent defenders. They also look to have some younger legs than their opponents and I have to wonder if that’ll be telling come the end of the game.
Celta have also been performing very well so far and have lost just once all season. Like their opponents, they’re pretty well balanced right through with no obvious weak areas, but also no stand out players. They’ve also been scoring for fun (and well, because they also get paid for it) having bagged at least 1 goal in every game so far. Malcom’s side are a little older than Levante’s, and I have to wonder if that experience will be telling come the end of the game. Have I used that line already somewhere?
This looks to be very tight, and I wouldn’t like to pick a winner, so I won’t.
Levante 2-2 Celta Vigo
Division 5
Flamengo vs Malaga
This was another game that picked itself. A relegation dogfight that could turn out to be critical later in the season.
Flamengo started the season horribly and only got their first win on Sunday. Clearly the Brazilians are slow starters, but seem to have found a little form in the last few matches. Its certainly not a bad side on paper, so there’s no obvious reason for such a poor start. Their recent upward trend seems to have coincided with the manager being on holiday however, so read into that what you will.
Malaga seem to be the most black or white side in the leagues, they either win or they lose with nothing, so far, in between. They’ve lost more than won however and have shipped a fair amount of goals in the process. Again, its another side that isn’t bad at all, but it’s aging in some key areas and perhaps those old legs are starting to struggle.
These two sides are well matched with players, and neither has a clear advantage in any area of personnel or form. I can’t pick a winner here.
Flamengo 1-1 Malaga
That’s yer lot this week. Happy reading.
Division 4 round 7 Review
Division 4 Round 7 Review
Evening lads, What a start to the knockout stages in the WC eh? Don't cry 4-3 Argentina being the highlight for sure, Ronaldo then followed Messi home after Uruguay saw Portugal off, name me a better CB partnership at international level than Godin/Jimenez! Spain passed the world and themselves to death in losing to Russia on Pens and Croatia scraped through despite Kasper Schmeichal's best efforts. Brazil went through earlier with little trouble, whoever beats them wins for me they always capable of scoring but rarely look like conceding. This Belgium v Japan just finished and what a second half, Belgium showing real character to come from 2 down.
England V Columbia the big one tomorrow for a lot of you, Personally I think England will struggle and it could go the full distance. As mentioned in the T100 group chat this country could drown in its own tears tomorrow such is the belief that football is indeed coming home.
So to the review of Sundays games in Division 4..
ATALANTA 0 BASEL 2
Just where do i start....
Now I never expected a win for Atalanta and I was right in that belief, Basel had started the season like a team possessed whereas my sorry excuse for a team can't do a thing right. Basel took just 4 minutes to take the lead when Aspas lashed home a free kick from the edge of the box, on 18 minutes Atalanta made things a good deal harder when Giaccherini lunged in on Aspas with both feet off the ground and was shown a straight red, The Italian didn't help his cause by giving the two finger salute to the booing Atalanta fans and after the game Giaccherini was told to clear out his locker and he wouldn't be considered for the first team again.The rest of the half actually belonged to Atalanta who twice tested Sirigu. After Guerrero missed a golden opportunity early in the second half Atalanta were punished as Aspas grabbed his and Basel's 2nd, finishing well from Bardhi cross. Merino then finished the game as a contest by joining Giaccherini in having an early bath, again with a lunge on Aspas on 69 minutes and Atalanta were down to 9 men!! The game drifted towards the full time whistle with Basel not wanting to rub our noses in it. Big changes are needed here and transfers are already in the pipeline, Cech replaces Subasic with Diaz joining the u21 squad. Gebre Selassie swaps with Zuffi heading to Bremen to add some depth to FB positions.
SWANSEA 1 LEVANTE 3
Levante bounced back from defeat with a crushing defeat of Swansea who had Marchesin in goal to thank from a bigger defeat. Levante cruised this game and took just 15 minutes to take the lead, Fred's corner dropped deap to the edge of the box and Diego hit a sweet half volley which flew past Marchesin. Within 3 more minutes and it was 2-0, and Diego had his 2nd picking up Gignac's lay off to bury a shot home. It was 3-0 on 57 as Fred again provided an immaculate cross which left Musa with the simplest of tasks to slot home with the Swansea defence nowhere to be seen. On 64 the deficit was reduced as Swansea scored with their only shot on target, Adriano tapping home Jimenez delightful through ball. Marchesin then came to Swansea's rescue by pulling off 4 great saves to deny Milik and Musa adding to the score. A fine fine away win.
CELTA VIGO 2 DINAMO ZAGREB 0
Celta are 3rd after a highly entertaining 2-0 win over Zagreb in which Celta finished with 9 men. The home team got off to a great start just 17 seconds in when Ivanovic smashed a hopeful ball forward which caught a wicked bounce and lobbed Bizot who was stranded,unbelievable start to the game. Fofana thought he had Zagreb level on 13 minutes but his goal was ruled out for offside after a VAR review, Fofana had just went a fraction early. On the hour mark and Delph went two footed in on Olmo and had no complaints with the red. Despite the red card it was the 10 men who found themselves 2-0 when Sissoko mis hit his shot which wrong footed Bizot and rolled tamely into the bottom corner. Feghouli then lashed out at Fofana with a vicious right uppercut which would of been more at home in the boxing ring to join delph in getting a straight red. The 9 men were rarely threatened in the last 15 minutes though and will be delighted with the win.
CRUZEIRO 1 TORINO 2
Torino bounced back from their first defeat of the season to record a narrow win over Cruzeiro who slipped to their 4th defeat in 5. The game was lacking any quality before Negredo give the Italians the lead on 31 after Maia split the home defence and Negredo curled home a delightful finish.Cruzeiro battled well and deservedly levelled on 71 when Silva drove through the non existent Torino midfield and set Cigerci away just inside the box, he checked back inside Fuchs and finished well at the near post. Cruzeiro's delight was short lived as Negredo lashed home just 3 minutes later from close range after Mendes did all the hard work. A decent win for Tom Parfitt's outfit.
OLYMPIAKOS 0 PARTIZAN 1
The only unbeaten record remains intact after Partizan edged this tight affair in Greece.
The first half was low on action with Partizan just edging it, Kruse Bruma and Quagliarella all going close whilst Tevez missed Olympiakos's best chance to take the lead. Dale Bowers words of wisdom at HT seemed to gee up the Greeks as they started the second half well and Viviano had to save well twice from Vainqueur in quick succession as they stepped up their performance. Vela then missed a sitter after Tevez left him with just the keeper to beat from 10 yards but he blazed high and wide. That chance would still be playing on everyone's minds as Partizan moved straight down the pitch and won a penalty, Kruse was taken from behind by Gil and the ref had no hesitation to point to the spot. Kruse dusted himself down and lashed the penalty straight down the middle to give Partizan the lead. Bruma lost his head in the Greek sun and went in two footed on Vainqueur and was sent off to leave Partizan with 10 men for the last 8 minutes, but in truth they were rarely threatened after the goal and they saw the match out easily.
CRYSTAL PALACE 2 BOCA JUNIORS 0
Mark Deadman's Palace continue their good run of for with a convincing win over hapless Boca. It took just 4 minutes for Andros Townsend to get Palace up and running, receiving Cork's pass out on the right Townsend went on a mazy run beating 3 Boca defenders before calmly slotting past Moya. Boca did have a chance to level in the first half but the chance fell to Reine-Adelaide who again was deployed out of position and he snatched at his chance and Heaton had little trouble in collecting the shot. Boca were in deep trouble on 56 when Lima pulled Josh King's shirt when defending a corner and the ref spotted it and awarded Palace a penalty, up stepped Townsend who send Moya the wrong way from the spot. Boca's troubles got even worse 3 minutes after as Ilsanker, who had been given the run around all game, lost his rag and caught Defour with a shocking knee high challenge and was promptly sent off. Townsend was twice denied his hat trick after Moya saved well from him, Moya the difference between this being 2-0 and 5-0 today.
ESPANYOL 0 STOKE 2
Stoke made it 6 unbeaten with a terrific win over stuttering Espanyol. Stoke started brightly and Handanovic twice saved well from Miranchuk and Bou in the first 20 minutes. The sides then traded Yellow cards as both battled to take control of the game before Espanyol finally tested Zoet just before HT, Bruma's shot needing collecting at the 2nd attempt by Zoet. Bou had Stoke ahead on 56 with a truly great finish, Castillejo played a high pass to Bou who took a touch with his chest before calmly lobbing the ball over the stranded Handanovic. Kjaer, already on a yellow, then saw red for a lunge at the goalscorer on 69 minutes adding to Lee Reynold's problems. Stoke took full advantage as from the resulting free kick Castillejo again turned provider, sending a cross over which left Knoche unmarked to tap home. 3 defeats in 4 for the Spanish side as Stoke rise above Espanyol to 7th.
MARSEILLE 3 DNIPRO 2
Walter Gogh's Marseille got back to winning ways with a entertaining win over Dnipro. Marseille started well and it took just 5 minutes to send the Velodrome wild as Bolasie swung over a teasing corner which Bocchetti rose highest to power a header home. Their dominance was confirmed when Bolasie scored on 22, though we still don't know if he meant it. Valencia had knocked the ball down the line to Bolasie and he checked inside and lobbed a cross/shot right into the top corner, exquisit if he meant it or lucky if he didn't. Either way 2-0. Both sides traded chances as Dnipro battled back but in doing so left themselves open to the counter. It took 70 minutes but finally Dnipro had themselves back in the game, Falque with a lovely driven finish from Latza's lay off. 82 minutes and it was 2-2, Petros found Falque who knocked home his second despite looking like he fouled his man in the build up. Marseille however were not to be denied and Bolasie was the hero, beating 2 men before beating Grohe at his near post to seal the win with just 3 minutes remaining.
MONACO 0 ASTON VILLA 1
Aston Villa pulled off a great away victory at Monaco who continue their inconsistent start to the season. Nick Justice's Villa went head to head with Monaco in an even first half with Son twice denied by Reina when it seemed easier to score. Those chances were sandwiched in between Strakosha saving from Higuain and Zielinski as the first half drew to a close. Gray stunned Monaco on 53 with a low driven shot which flew into the bottom corner of Reina's near post to give Villa the lead. Son and Gray almost made it better for Villa but Reina was in good form to deny them. A great win for Villa and disappointment for Nathan Prince's pre season favourites, Nathan already claiming he may listen to offers for his misfiring strikeforce of Higuain and Benzema.
AZ ALKMAAR 1 COLOGNE 2
Cologne picked up their 2nd win of the season to condemn Alkmaar to back to back defeats. Cologne were ahead on 5 as Charlie Austin beat Navas in the air to head the ball back to the on rushing Loftus-Cheek to smash the ball home from 12 yards. Sels then preserved the lead by saving from Juanfran and Smolov. He could do nothing though to prevent Alkmaar equalising 6 minutes before the break, Gonzalez running on to Acuna's defense splitting ball to round the keeper and roll the ball into the empty net. 1-1 at HT. The second half Cologne stepped up a gear and forced Romero into smart saves from Austin(x2) and Grillitsch as they pushed for a winner. The winner came with just 11 minutes left and it was no surprise that Cologne grabbed the goal, their pressure finally counting when Loftus-Cheek stormed into the box and dropped the ball off to Van Ginkel who took a touch and found the top corner with a great finish.
Thanks for reading.
OLYMPIAKOS 0 PARTIZAN 1
The only unbeaten record remains intact after Partizan edged this tight affair in Greece.
The first half was low on action with Partizan just edging it, Kruse Bruma and Quagliarella all going close whilst Tevez missed Olympiakos's best chance to take the lead. Dale Bowers words of wisdom at HT seemed to gee up the Greeks as they started the second half well and Viviano had to save well twice from Vainqueur in quick succession as they stepped up their performance. Vela then missed a sitter after Tevez left him with just the keeper to beat from 10 yards but he blazed high and wide. That chance would still be playing on everyone's minds as Partizan moved straight down the pitch and won a penalty, Kruse was taken from behind by Gil and the ref had no hesitation to point to the spot. Kruse dusted himself down and lashed the penalty straight down the middle to give Partizan the lead. Bruma lost his head in the Greek sun and went in two footed on Vainqueur and was sent off to leave Partizan with 10 men for the last 8 minutes, but in truth they were rarely threatened after the goal and they saw the match out easily.
CRYSTAL PALACE 2 BOCA JUNIORS 0
Mark Deadman's Palace continue their good run of for with a convincing win over hapless Boca. It took just 4 minutes for Andros Townsend to get Palace up and running, receiving Cork's pass out on the right Townsend went on a mazy run beating 3 Boca defenders before calmly slotting past Moya. Boca did have a chance to level in the first half but the chance fell to Reine-Adelaide who again was deployed out of position and he snatched at his chance and Heaton had little trouble in collecting the shot. Boca were in deep trouble on 56 when Lima pulled Josh King's shirt when defending a corner and the ref spotted it and awarded Palace a penalty, up stepped Townsend who send Moya the wrong way from the spot. Boca's troubles got even worse 3 minutes after as Ilsanker, who had been given the run around all game, lost his rag and caught Defour with a shocking knee high challenge and was promptly sent off. Townsend was twice denied his hat trick after Moya saved well from him, Moya the difference between this being 2-0 and 5-0 today.
ESPANYOL 0 STOKE 2
Stoke made it 6 unbeaten with a terrific win over stuttering Espanyol. Stoke started brightly and Handanovic twice saved well from Miranchuk and Bou in the first 20 minutes. The sides then traded Yellow cards as both battled to take control of the game before Espanyol finally tested Zoet just before HT, Bruma's shot needing collecting at the 2nd attempt by Zoet. Bou had Stoke ahead on 56 with a truly great finish, Castillejo played a high pass to Bou who took a touch with his chest before calmly lobbing the ball over the stranded Handanovic. Kjaer, already on a yellow, then saw red for a lunge at the goalscorer on 69 minutes adding to Lee Reynold's problems. Stoke took full advantage as from the resulting free kick Castillejo again turned provider, sending a cross over which left Knoche unmarked to tap home. 3 defeats in 4 for the Spanish side as Stoke rise above Espanyol to 7th.
MARSEILLE 3 DNIPRO 2
Walter Gogh's Marseille got back to winning ways with a entertaining win over Dnipro. Marseille started well and it took just 5 minutes to send the Velodrome wild as Bolasie swung over a teasing corner which Bocchetti rose highest to power a header home. Their dominance was confirmed when Bolasie scored on 22, though we still don't know if he meant it. Valencia had knocked the ball down the line to Bolasie and he checked inside and lobbed a cross/shot right into the top corner, exquisit if he meant it or lucky if he didn't. Either way 2-0. Both sides traded chances as Dnipro battled back but in doing so left themselves open to the counter. It took 70 minutes but finally Dnipro had themselves back in the game, Falque with a lovely driven finish from Latza's lay off. 82 minutes and it was 2-2, Petros found Falque who knocked home his second despite looking like he fouled his man in the build up. Marseille however were not to be denied and Bolasie was the hero, beating 2 men before beating Grohe at his near post to seal the win with just 3 minutes remaining.
MONACO 0 ASTON VILLA 1
Aston Villa pulled off a great away victory at Monaco who continue their inconsistent start to the season. Nick Justice's Villa went head to head with Monaco in an even first half with Son twice denied by Reina when it seemed easier to score. Those chances were sandwiched in between Strakosha saving from Higuain and Zielinski as the first half drew to a close. Gray stunned Monaco on 53 with a low driven shot which flew into the bottom corner of Reina's near post to give Villa the lead. Son and Gray almost made it better for Villa but Reina was in good form to deny them. A great win for Villa and disappointment for Nathan Prince's pre season favourites, Nathan already claiming he may listen to offers for his misfiring strikeforce of Higuain and Benzema.
AZ ALKMAAR 1 COLOGNE 2
Cologne picked up their 2nd win of the season to condemn Alkmaar to back to back defeats. Cologne were ahead on 5 as Charlie Austin beat Navas in the air to head the ball back to the on rushing Loftus-Cheek to smash the ball home from 12 yards. Sels then preserved the lead by saving from Juanfran and Smolov. He could do nothing though to prevent Alkmaar equalising 6 minutes before the break, Gonzalez running on to Acuna's defense splitting ball to round the keeper and roll the ball into the empty net. 1-1 at HT. The second half Cologne stepped up a gear and forced Romero into smart saves from Austin(x2) and Grillitsch as they pushed for a winner. The winner came with just 11 minutes left and it was no surprise that Cologne grabbed the goal, their pressure finally counting when Loftus-Cheek stormed into the box and dropped the ball off to Van Ginkel who took a touch and found the top corner with a great finish.
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| The table after round 7 |
Top 100 Top Game Predictions – Turn 7
Welcome to the first ever edition of these editions covering. In future I’ll try and cover the best games from all 5 divisions, but for this one, due to them taking longer than I expected, you’ll have to make do with just 3, so there.
And how could we start with anything other than El Clasico….
Division 1
Real Madrid vs Barcelona
Beddow’s Madrid have been in solid form so far this season, unbeaten in 8 games and only 1 defeat all season sees them sitting in 6thplace. They’ve been scoring plenty but have shipped a few goals as well having failed to keep a league clean sheet all season. It’s a strong side on paper and an especially talented midfield. Unsurprisingly their defence looks the weak area of the side and some of the aging legs there no doubt contributing to the lack of clean sheets.
Barcelona are currently 2nd in the league and also unbeaten so far. However a friendly match against Madrid just yesterday went against them and Mckenzie will be hoping it was simply a blip. Barcelona boast an equally strong midfield and two of the best in the world up front. They also look a little more lively at the back than Madrid but have themselves only kept one clean sheet so far.
This looks a tough game for both sides, but Barcleona have more about them than Madrid, and I’m especially wondering how Madrid’s aging backline can contain the likes of Hazard, Messi and Neymar. Barca win this for me.
Real Madrid 1-3 Barcelona
Divison 2
Fiorentina vs Internazionale
A (near) bottom of the table clash sees Fiorentina take on Inter today in what promises to be a high pressure low quality game.
Fiorentina have just one win to their names so far this season, one draw, and plenty of losses. The squad is noticeably weak at the back, and that shows in the amount of goals conceded so far. It’s a testament to Saif that he’s got the squad as far as he has, but their lack of quality is being painfully found out at the moment and avoiding the drop looks a real struggle even this early in the season. Hussain Saif’s recent appointment could also be a contributing factor, he’s only just joined the team replacing previous manager Hussain Saif (no relation I’m reliably informed), so a bedding in period could be to blame.
Inter’s squad is in a remarkably similar situation, which is probably why they’re also at the bottom, an ok midfield but a weak backline. They have the same record as their opponents also, one win, one draw, many losses (anything above 3 is many, I only have 3 fingers you see).
Both sides desperately need a win, and a draw will only be of limited value, but I just can’t see a winner here and if I could, would pick them both to lose. A draw will have to do though.
Fiorentina 2-2 Inter
Division 3
St Etienne vs Standard Liege
Vitorino has only recently joined Etienne and is already looking like a manager of the season contender. He’s managed to get one of the weakest sides in the league up to fourth, and though the last two results have been heavy defeats, he’s worked miracles to get them up the table so far. Its an aging side though that will need major changes in the near future, but its especially weak at the back and liable to ship goals against the better sides.
Scallotti’s Liege are noticeably stronger, but they also aren’t perfect and are fairly poor themselves at the back, though to be honest by this point I’m starting to wonder if ‘weak at the back’ is the only feedback I can give, its week 1 and I’m already sick of saying it… Anyway, they have a strong midfield for this level. Scallotti has made wholesale changes to the side recently, including the tea lady and the window cleaner both being moved on as part of the deal for Hamsik coming in. They’re a strong prospect however, and will take some stopping on their charge to Division 2.
Liege look a better side than Etienne, both sides look weak at the back (ffs) but I fancy Liege to out score their opponents today and remain top.
St Etienne 1-3 Standard Liege
That’s it for this edition. If I’ve offended anyone, that was the intention so get lost. Also, no animals were harmed in the making of these predictions.
Inter youth cup side, turn 7
Here is the squad
In goal we have the highly thought of Swede
Pontus Dahlberg with an 80 rating.
[youtube=[www.youtube.com/watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XLWNAhK5EXE&w=320&h=266])
RB we have Atletico madrid's
Andres Solano who has a rating of 75.
At RCB we have one of the most experienced players in the youth team, 21 year old
Rivaldo Coetzee (78). Was highly thought of but has had some recent setbacks with injury's IRL and has signed a 1 year deal with our youth team.
[youtube=[www.youtube.com/watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rP8h3GibS-0&w=320&h=266])
At LCB we have FC Porto's 19 year old Oleg Reabciuk (75). He is also capable of playing in leftback/Left mid.
At Left back we have Japan's under 20 international Ryo Hatsuse (78). He can play both fullback positions and is playing well in the J1 League for Gamba Osaka.
Our Star Player In cdm we have 88 rated Amadou Diawara.
We are relying on him a lot in this seasons youth cup. He's already first choice in the first team so he will be playing a lot of football this season.
[youtube=[www.youtube.com/watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tUKqanQQpdM&w=320&h=266])
Next to Amadou Diawara we have Los Angeles midfielder , Eduard Atuesta (78). Who played very well against Borussia Dortmund 4 weeks ago in a frendly.
[youtube=[www.youtube.com/watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=brDUVmrOfgQ&w=320&h=266])
Ram we had quite a few options but we have gone for Yacine Adli. The youngest player in the team
at 17. Linked with arsenal recently highly thought of at PSG. He has a future in football for sure but for now he is only 73 rated on the game.
[youtube=[www.youtube.com/watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s2Ytwk5S9cI&w=320&h=266])
In CAM we have another player we are relying a lot on if we are to do well in this youth cup. Mason Mount. 19 years old and 84 rated and highly thought of at Chelsea. Has had a great season on loan at vitesse.
[youtube=[www.youtube.com/watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xo4DI52gzp8&w=320&h=266])
LAM we once again have many options but are going with Paulo Alves. Rumours he has been released by Liverpool in real life but hasn't been confirmed. He joined Liverpool from porto in 2016.
Seems to have potential.
[youtube=[www.youtube.com/watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RiAvtT6ouXs&w=320&h=266])
Upfront we are going for 1 striker and we have about 4 options but none of high rating.
We are going to start with Sporting CP's 20 year old Pedro Marques. Seems to have an eye for goal.
[youtube=[www.youtube.com/watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vSjr9TSBImI&w=320&h=266])
Subs
Ryan Ledson (78) was a highly thought of cm at Everton. He wanted first team football and joined Oxford United permanently and played brilliantly for 2 seasons He has now joined Championship side Preston North end in the summer. He is only 20 years old and could go on to good things.
[youtube=[www.youtube.com/watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LPJ-a5ZaaWw&w=320&h=266])
Gilbert Fuentes is the youngest player in the squad but most probably wont play. He will be on the bench learning and watching his fellow team mates. He has only just turned 16 and plays for San Jose Earthquakes. He decided to join Earthquakes over Borussia Dortmund and TopDrawerSoccer.com listed Fuentes as the fourth best player and top midfielder in the nation for the class of 2020.
[youtube=[www.youtube.com/watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fqX9GDV0qFo&w=320&h=266])
Next we have another sporting CP B striker Ronaldo Tavares(75).
In March 2018, he was called by first-team manager Jesus for a match against Plzen for the Europa league but didn't get on. Has played over 50 games for the youth side. and is a Portugal under 20 international.
[youtube=[www.youtube.com/watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zG15mmd1UP0&w=320&h=266])
Callum Styles can play CAM and ST. He came through Burnleys youth system. He signed for bury fc and came off the bench for them on the 18th may 2016. He was only 16 and has been linked with bpl clubs including Liverpool and Everton.
[youtube=[www.youtube.com/watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jbg6-KZjQB0&w=320&h=266])
Marcus Edwards in a cam/winger who plays for Tottenham Hotspur. He is 19 years old and was once nick named mini Messi. Recently Attitude and mentality problems have meant that spurs are looking to sell him but there is still a long way to go for this young man.
[youtube=[www.youtube.com/watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZX4zp6tCz9w&w=320&h=266])
Abdou Diakhate is a cm for fiorentina. I honestly cant find much on this lad. Bit of a punt i just know he was a wonderkid on football manager lol.
Finally we have Jose Luis Rodrigues (73) a winger I noticed while watching the 2018 World cup. He is already a first Teamer in the panama side which lets face it isn't hard. I thought he was there best player by far. Had an eye for a pass and is very good with the ball at his feet.
[youtube=[www.youtube.com/watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uVAIP_mTppI&w=320&h=266])
Thanks for watching and reading and good-luck to everyone in the youth cup and sorry for my terrible grammer.
Division 4 Round 6 Review
DIVISION 4 ROUND 6 REVIEW
Morning Guys, I assume we are all suffering withdrawal symptoms after that free day in the World Cup yesterday, I ended up talking to my family...strange bunch they are.
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Some great fixtures to come in last 16 Just looking at the games, Today's two matches jump out, France v Argentina is a match where both need improvement after poor starts, and Uruguay v Portugal promises to be full of shithousery which is fantastic.
So on to the review of round 6 of Division 4.
FC BASEL 2 CRUZEIRO 1
Fc Basel are the new leaders in Division 4 after seeing off Cruzeiro despite playing 80 minutes with 10 men. They took just 2 minutes to take the lead, Joe Allon playing a delightful ball over to Aspas who took a touch and drew the keeper out before deftly lobbing Marinato. The perfect start was ruined after 10 minutes when Kalou took leave of his senses and elbowed Stuani leaving the ref with no option but to send him off. Stuani must of been feeling the effects of the elbow as he missed 2 golden opportunities to draw Cruzeiro level and his was made to pay for his misses when Capa put Basel 2 up on 27, receiving Jorgensen's knock down to curl a shot past the keeper. Aspas had chances to extend the lead as Cruzeiro struggled with the extra man. Dom latouche got into his side and his HT team talk had an effect as on 53 as Lodeiro smashed a shot into the top corner giving Sirigu no chance. Stuani again missed chances to bring Cruzeiro level as Basel held out for a huge win which leaves them top of the pile.
LEVANTE 1 MONACO 2
Levante dropped off the top as they were victims of a smash and grab performance from Monaco who continued their rise up the table. Monaco enjoyed the best of the first half but were unable to test Koubek in the Levante goal. Fred put the Spanish side ahead on 54 with an unstoppable free kick leaving Reina helpless to grab his 2nd goal of the season. Reina then pulled off a great save to prevent Monaco going further behind from Milik. Monaco were level on 68 minutes when Mustafi struck a hopeful shot from distance which Koubek should really of done better with. Reina again kept Monaco level after 2 further saves from Diego and Gignac and Monaco took advantage on 76 minutes when Garcia grabbed what turned out to be the winner and again Koubek will not want to see this goal again, Garcia hit an early shot which caught the keeper flat footed and unable to reach the shot. Reina then earned his MOTM award with a fantastic save low down to deny Milik.
TORINO 0 ESPANYOL 1
Espanyol returned to winning ways ending Torino's unbeaten start in the process. The first half was a frustrating watch as Negredo left his shooting boots at home, 3 times in the first 20 minutes he fluffed his chance to give Torino the lead and 3 times he found Handanovic instead of the back of the net. The second half belonged to Espanyol as they sought to return to winning ways, Alcacer was denied by Zieler and then the crossbar as the game looked to be heading for a draw. Zieler also saving from Rebic and Kjaer before the deadlock was finally broken and Alcacer turned provider, he brought the ball down well and laid it off to Hubner who hit a low drive from just outside the box which creeped into the bottom corner to give Espanyol the 3 points.
COLOGNE 0 CELTA VIGO 2
Celta Vigo won their first match in 4 games to lift themselves to 4th in the table, taking advantage of Cologne who slumped to their 4th defeat in 5. Arnautovic tested Arrizabalaga 3 times in the first half as Vigo set their stall out to attack their out of form opponents. Loftus-Cheek tried to drive Cologne from midfield but let himself down with poor finishes when well positioned. Santini really should of put Cologne ahead on 58 after great work form Portillo who beat 2 defenders and sent Santini clear on goal, he scuffed his effort though and despite it beating Cech it clipped the outside of the post. It was to prove costly as just 6 minutes later Fonte let rip with a powerful drive from 30 yards to put Vigo ahead. Denilson wrapped up the win on 81 minutes with a sweet half volley from 15 yards which again give Arrizabalaga no chance. Neil Frankland obviously has seen enough to concern him with his start to the season and has already promised to shake things up, Keeper Arrizabalaga leaving to WBA in a multi player deal will hopefully give him the reaction he demands.
BOCA JUNIORS 0 PARTIZAN 3
Partizan now have the only unbeaten run in Division 4 after a convincing win over rock bottom Boca. It only took 9 minutes before Partizan had the lead as Baier drove powerfully past Moya. Both sides then traded fouls and yellow cards as the battle to take control heated up. Reine-Adelaide, playing in an unfamiliar cf position, hit the bar from a free kick as Boca at least tried to respond in the first half. Quagliarella got Partizan's 2nd on 26 as Kruse sent over a deep free kick, Quagliarella rose highest the thunder a header right into the top corner. That goal seemed to knock the stuffing out of Boca and it was 0-3 just after the break as Kruse again provided the assist, this time playing a defence splitting ball for Chiesa to slot past Moya. It could and should of been more but Moya turned in a determined performance to keep the score down.
DNIPRO 1 ATALANTA 0
Dnipro heaped the pressure on comedy club Atalanta with a straightforward win. Subasic was MOTM for Atalanta as he stopped the result being far worse. The only surprise here was that it took Dnipro 64 minutes to take the lead, Andre drilling home from Bebou's inch perfect ball. 4 defeats on the bounce for Atalanta with only 1 goal being scored in last 5 league games. I'd give a more in depth analysis of this game but it would only depress me more, so i wont!!
CRYSTAL PALACE 2 AZ ALKMAAR 0
Crystal Palace continued their rise up the table with a fine win here against AZ. The first half was short on real action with the only moment of quality bringing the goal on 24 minutes for Palace, Cresswell broke from defense and run 50 yards down the left, he cut inside and played a ball to Soldado who held off Conti before returning the ball to Cresswell who cracked a stunning curling effort from 25 yards into the corner of Romero's goal. The second half started with Tom Heaton protecting the lead with saves from both Masina and Smolov. Those saves were rewarded on 54 as a set piece straight off the training ground worked. Silva linked up with Townsend to provide a better crossing angle to deliver a fine ball into the box which Defour arriving from a designated deep run drove home. Chances came and went for both sides but Palace saw out without any real danger to record a hard fought win.
DINAMO ZAGREB 1 SWANSEA 0
Dinamo secured a narrow 1-0 win over Swansea to record their 3rd win in 4 games to move into the top 10. A poor first half lacked which lacked any urgency from either side which only shot of note came when Hozdic hit a shot which Marchesin somehow got his fingers to and tipped it onto the post. The 2nd half sprung to live on 66 minutes when VAR denied Adriano. Rico had played a lovely ball to Adriano who scuffed his shot in off the post, no flag from the officials but Protests from Zagreb encouraged the ref to check with VAR and he judged Adriano just offside much to Joe Jordan's disgust who took his big right boot to the VAR monitor and was dismissed for his reaction. The game was drifting after that controversy until Eysseric pounced with just 5 minutes left to steal the points, Dirar's shot was deflected into Eysseric's path and he fired in off the crossbar for the points.
STOKE 2 OLYMPIAKOS 1
Stoke made it 5 unbeaten with a narrow win over Olympiakos with all the goals came in an action packed first half. Stoke were ahead on 18 when Bou crossed for Goulart to kill and finish the ball in one movement, a great piece of skill by the Brazilian. Olympiakos were level just after the half hour as Tevez whipped in a great free kick which Selnaes tapped home at the near post. Knoche had the potteries jumping just before the break with what turned out to be the winner, Castillejo did all the hard work holding off a couple of despairing tackles before setting up Knoche for a easy finish. The second half was a more stop start affair with fouls from both sides in a fiesty atmosphere. Guedes had already been carded by the ref for a cynical challenge on Selnaes before he lunged into a wild challenge on Vela, the challenge sparked a melee between the benches as Anthony Maddison and Dale Bowers had to be seperated. Tevez missed a couple of chances to get Olympiakos back level as Stoke held on with their 10 men.
ASTON VILLA 1 MARSEILLE 1
Marseille finally ended their goal duck here at Villa Park but it wasn't enough to take home the points. Just 39 seconds on the clock when the goalless run ended, Babacar playing in Bolasie who went past Fosu-mensah's weak challenge to put the ball through Strakosha's legs. Relief at last for Walter Gogh who celebrated wildly on the touchline.Both sides went for it but lacked that killer touch in front of goal. The second half again was an even affair and Villa were level on 74 as Gray, back in the side after his red card against Atalanta, started making amends to his manager by finishing Karamoh's superb cross. Babacar thought he had secured Marseille the vital 3 points they wanted but his smart finish was ruled offside, TV replays showing the officials made the correct decision. A point apiece just about the right result but positives to take for both managers.
So another round completed, another round of defeats for Boca and Atalanta to deal with and the table has another new leader...
 Sunday's fixtures are below...
 A lot of teams playing against teams at the other end of the form table, I'm already praying ahead of Atalanta's home game against Basel.
Till next time thanks for reading
Norman
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Daily Hamburger: Minamino No, Merino No?
In today’s paper…
- HSV vs PSV preview
- Transfer News
- Transfer bans
- Youth Cup preview
Match Preview
Hamburg head to Holland for tonight's encounter with Lee Adam's PSV.
Seamus Coleman misses out as he is serving the final match of his three-game ban for attempting to emasculate Bafetembi Gomis with his studs.
Lass Diarra will continue to deputise at right-back, despite rumours linking him with a move to Atalanta.'That's all just rubbish,' said boss Marsden.
'Completely made up.
'You people need to go out and do some real journalism!'
Abel Hernandez looks set to keep his place in a three-man attack alongside Artiz Aduriz and Wahbi Khazri.
'Our front three are firing, we just need to get the rest playing to the same level,' intoned Marsden.
Transfer News
Former Sampdoria striker Takumi Minamino was caught in a frenzy of transfer activity when he suddenly became available.
After a tantalising wait, he decided to move to sunny Spain and be surplus even to bench-warming activities at Dario Saviano's exciting Levante project.
[youtube=[www.youtube.com/watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DCCuOLqwZv8&w=320&h=266]The) club also failed to attract two bright young talents this week.
Rodrigues Rodrigo also elected to sign for Levante, while shooting star Umaro Embalo (not to be confused with Shooting Stars' Eranu) controversially signed for John James' Sao Paulo.
That resulted in a one month Transfer Ban for John, who fell foul of the rule having 'forgotten' about his two loan players plus his own loaned out player, taking him one over the 50 player squad cap.
Hamburg will be hoping to have more success with their offer for young Mikel Merino of Atalanta.
La Dea boss Norman Little is said to be 'thinking about it', and will make a decision tonight when he's finished his day job, and has nothing else to do while watching Gareth Southgate's England win the World Cup against Roberto Martinez's Belgium.
Transfer Bans
'Speaking of transfer bans, and being a bit of an expert on receiving them...
'I can sympathise with John at Sao Paulo, having made a similar mistake and received a three month ban as a result, even though I immediately cancelled my loan player like John, and was then immediately back at 50 players.
'It's certainly harsh, when you consider that the same punishment is meted out as for someone who goes EIGHT players over.
'Or compared to NO PUNISHMENT WHATSOEVER for someone who cancels a deal SEVENTEEN MINUTES AFTER it was accepted!'
Chelsea Youngsters
James McKenzie's youngsters visit the Volkparkstadion on Sunday night for the first game in Group C of this season's Youth Cup.
Lots of exciting match-ups in the groups, but especially in Group B with a Manchester derby and an El Classico to look forward to.