Match of the Week: Time for revenge?

Real Madrid only needed 41 minutes to beat Liverpool at Anfield - Can Liverpool bite back at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu?

Real Madrid v Liverpool

Champions League Group B

Estadio Santiago Bernabeu

4-11-2014 @ 19.45 GMT

How are the two sides current form?

Real Madrid are unbeaten in their last seven matches in the La Liga, as well as they are unbeaten in the Champions League Group B, so far. Cristiano Ronaldo is here, there and everywhere at the moment scoring 17 goals in ten La Liga matches and will be a mouthful for Liverpool.

Liverpool are struggling in the Premier League this season and seems to be unable to follow up on last seasons impressing play. They are currently third in the Champions League group with three points for three matches.

What are the probable line-ups?

Real Madrid are struggling with injuries as Jesé, Sami Khedira, Illarramendi, and Daniel Carvajal are all out with injuries. Fabio Coentrao is back from injury but is doubtful for the match. Liverpools injury list is long as well with Jose Enrique, Daniel Sturridge, Mamdou Sakho, John Flanagan and Suso sidelined.

Casillas

Marcelo - Pepe - Varane - Arbeloa

Modric - Kroos

James

Ronaldo - Benzema - Bale

____________________________________

Balotelli

Coutinho - Sterling

Can - Henderson

Gerrard

Moreno - Lovren - Skrtel - Manquillo

Mignolet

Worth keeping an eye on

Real Madrid: Cristiano Ronaldo - Cristiano Ronaldo is here, there and everywhere these days. The Portuguese has played well the last many seasons, but this season he has been incredible. He alone can send Liverpool out in the dark.

Liverpool: Simon Mignolet - The Belgian goalkeeper has to play his best against Real Madrid, if Liverpool is to have any chance.

What to expect from this match?

Real Madrid seems unstoppable this season and Liverpool is just another bump in the way towards the Champions League title. Liverpool needs a miracle if they are to get points on Santiago Bernabeu. There is no doubt that Real Madrid will play their usual quick attacking play, and the Liverpool defend will have to play a match above the standards shown in the Premier League this season. I have no doubt; Real Madrid will win this match.

What are the odds?

Real Madrid: 1/4 (Coral)

Draw: 33/5 (Matchbook)

Liverpool: 12 (Boylesport)

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We are going to Europe!

By Harbo on 03:31

Six Premier League sides have qualified for the European competitions this season; four in the Champions League and two in the Europa League. But, what are their chances in Europe??

This year's Champions League will have Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester City representing England while Everton and Tottenham will play in the Europa League. Great Dane Football Blog takes a look on the teams chances in their respective groups.

Champions League

Group B

FC Basel 1893, Liverpool FC, PFC Ludogorets Razgrad, Real Madrid CF

FC Basel was one of the big surprises in European football last season, beating Chelsea twice in the Champions League, and are underdogs in this group. There is no doubt that Liverpool and Real Madrid are favorites as group winners. On paper, Real Madrid is a better side than Liverpool, and they should win both matches. Ludogorets are, without a doubt, the weakest team in the group, but can cause problems from Liverpool with their typical East European work rage. Liverpool should advance from group B.

Liverpool fixtures: September 16th - Liverpool v Ludogorets, October 1st - FC Basel v Liverpool, October 22nd - Liverpool v Real Madrid, November 4th - Real Madrid v Liverpool, November 26th - Ludogorets v Liverpool, December 9th - Liverpool v FC Basel.

Group D

Arsenal, Borrussia Dortmund, Galatasaray AS, RSC Anderlecht

Once again Arsenal and Dortmund are facing each other in the Champions League, and they will be the favorites for the win. Galatasaray can come from the back and surprise, especially as Dortmund doesn't look as strong as they have done the last couple of seasons. Furthermore, Arsenal has a history of failing in the Champions League, but the side seems stronger this season. Belgian football is not what is was many years ago, that said, Anderlecht have a lot of European experience, and can cause trouble for all the sides in this group. Arsenal will end as runners up or third in this group.

Arsenal fixtures: September 16th - Dortmund v Arsenal, October 1st - Arsenal v Galatasaray, October 22nd - Anderlecht v Arsenal, November 4th - Arsenal v Anderlecht, November 26th - Arsenal v Dortmund, December 9th - Galatasary v Arsenal.

Group E

AS Roma, FC Bayern München, Manchester City FC, PFC CSKA Moskva

Two giants meet Bayern München and Manchester City clash in Group E, and there is no doubt they will battle for the win in this group. No doubt Roma are a great side, but Italian teams and the Italian Serie A is not what it used to be. CSKA Moskva shouldn't be a hurdle for City at all, but time and time again we see the Russian sides surprise. Manchester City will end as winners of Group E.

Manchester City fixtures: September 17th - Bayern München v Manchester City, September 30th - Manchester City v AS Roma, October 21st - CSKA Moskva v Manchester City, November 5th - Manchester City v CSKA Moskva, November 25th - Manchester City v Bayern München, December 10th - AS Roma v Manchester City.

Group G

Chelsea FC, FC Schalke 04, NK Maribor, Sporting Clube de Portugal

Of all the Premier League sides competing in the Champions League, Chelsea are in the easiest group. No doubt Schalke 04 is a good side, but Chelsea should not fear the Germans nor Maribor and Sporting. Chelsea should win this group without any problems.

Chelsea FC fixtures: September 17th - Chelsea v Schalke 04, September 30th - Sporting v Chelsea, October 21st - Chelsea v Maribor, November 5th - Maribor v Chelsea, November 25th - Schalke 04 v Chelsea, December 10th - Chelsea v Sporting.

Europa League

Group C

Asteras Tripolis FC, Besiktas JK, FK Partizan, Tottenham Hotspur

Spurs did well in the Europa League last season, and are one of the favorites this season as well. Asteras Tripolis and Partizan should not be a problem for Tottenham, while Besiktas is the hardest opponent in the group. That said, Tottenham will be the winners of this group.

Tottenham Hotspur fixtures: September 18th - FK Partizan v Tottenham Hotspur, October 2nd - Tottenham Hotspur v Besiktas, October 23rd - Tottenham Hotspur v Asteras, November 6th - Asteras v Tottenham Hotspur, November 27th - Tottenham Hotspur v FK Partizan, December 11th - Besiktas v Tottenham Hotspur.

Group H

Everton, Krasnodar, Lille LOSC, Wolfsburg

Everton are in a much harder group than Tottenham, facing Lille and Wolfsburg. While Krasnodar should be a walkover, Lille and Wolfsburg are both sides able to cause problems for Everton. However, the Toffees have gone through a major development the last couple of seasons, and they can go far in this years Europa League.

Everton fixtures: September 18th - Everton v Wolfsburg, October 2nd - Krasnodar v Everton, October 23nd - Lille v Everton, November 6th - Everton v Lille, November 27th - Wolfsburg v Everton, December 11th - Everton v Krasnodar.

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Friday Five

By Harbo on 07:47

It's Friday and time to take a look back at the week that past.

Friday 25th April - Hillsborough Wikipedia posts

It was revealed Friday that a number of changes made to the Wikipedia site about Hillsborough were posted from computers on Whitehall's intranet. One of the changes was the Liverpool anthem You'll Never Walk Alone rewritten to You'll Never Walk Again, as well as offensive comments were posted about the people dying in the tragedy. The Cabinet Office has now launched an investigation to find the persons behind the posts.

Saturday 26th April - Giggs first match as manager

He is already a Manchester United legend, and on Saturday he added to his history at the club as he was in charge of his first match as a manager. After a miserable season, David Moyes was sacked last week and Ryan Giggs took over as interim manager and started with great success as Norwich was sent home from Old Trafford with a 0-4 loss in the baggage. There was a glimpse of the old Manchester United in Saturdays match, and the fans will certainly hope that this can keep on in the remaining matches of the season.

Sunday 27th April - Did Gerrard just cost Liverpool the trophy?

It was one of the first 'finals' of the season for Liverpool; a win would add distance to Chelsea and Manchester City and almost secure the trophy. However, Mourinho's reserves surprised against Liverpool and grabbed a 2-0 victory at Anfield Road. The first goal came after a mistake from Steven Gerrard, and if that mistake means that Liverpool will not grab the gold this season, it will haunt him the rest of his life. The second goal came after another Liverpool mistake lead to Willian scoring to 2-0.

Wednesday 30th April - Chelsea's Champions League dream ended

They might have taken a big step in the Premier League, but on Wednesday the luck was gone for Mourinho. In a match where both teams looked afraid to take the initiative, Fernando Torres punished his former club scoring to 1-0. However, it should be the only goal the Chelsea fans could celebrate during the match. Shortly before the break Adrian Lopez equalised to 1-1 which also was the result after 45 minutes. After an hour, Samuel Eto'o committed a penalty on Diego Costa, who executed to 1-2 to Atletico. 10 minutes later Arda Turan closed the match with his scoring to 1-3. Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid are now meeting each other in the Champions League final.

Wednesday 30th April - Corinthians tribute to Senna

Yesterday it was 20 years since Formula One driver Ayrton Senna died after a chras at Imola. The racing-driver was a fan of Corinthians, his home-town club in São Paulo, and on Wednesday they paid an unusual tribute to the fan. The entire side was wearing replicas of Senna's distinctive yellow and green racing helmet as they lined up before the game against Nacional.

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Is Football about winning or entertaining?

By Harbo on 07:14

Jose Mourinho has got a lot of critic for the way Chelsea have been playing in the Premier League and the Champions League this season. Now, Andre Schürrle defends his manager.

Last week Chelsea got a draw against Atletico Madrid and won against Liverpool, but after both matches the club have been criticised for the defensive play style. Now, Andre Schürrle have had enough:

"We wanted to win but we knew we needed to play with a compact defence and that then we'd have a few little chances to score, which is exactly what happened. Winning is the most important thing.

"You can play perfect football, lots of one-touch stuff, and you lose. But that's not what you want - you want to win," the German said according to Soccerway.

Chelsea fans will unarguably agree with their German winger, but seen from the outside Chelsea are playing some rather boring football to watch. However, Barcelona have for years played offensive football where it has been more about passing the ball than hitting the target - that too is boring to watch over a longer period. Is football supposed to be about winning or entertaining? Winning is needed to keep the fans, but at the same time, the clubs have an obligation to perform some football worth watching, don't they?

What do you think?

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Match of the week: Chelsea v Atletico Madrid

By Harbo on 05:37

The first match between the two sides was not something to write about, but the winner needs to be found on Tuesday when they meet again at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea v Atletico Madrid

Champions League Semi-finals Leg 2

Stamford Bridge

30-04-2014 @ 19.45 UK

How are the two teams form?

Chelsea's reserves won against Liverpool yesterday and brought them only two points behind the league leaders. The fact that Mourinho saved some of his players for Wednesday match is promising and we can hope we won't park the bus as he did in Madrid.

Atletico Madrid took another win the weekend and are now six points ahead of Real Madrid, and looks like the Champions of Spain.

Not much have changed in the history of the two sides, but each side now has a win each while two matches have ended in a draw.

What are the probable line-ups?

Petr Cech and John Terry are definitely out for Chelsea. Javier Manquillo is injured for Atletico Madrid while Gabi is out with a suspension.

Schwarzer

Ivanovic - Cahill - Luiz - Azpilicueta

Ramires - Lampard

Willian - Oscar - Schurrle

_________________________

Costa - Diego

Koke - Suarez - Sosa - Garcia

Filipe - Miranda - Godin - Juanfran

Courtois

What to expect from this match?

Jose Mourinho will probably park the bus at Stamford Bridge and hope to beat Atletico on the contras. However, Atletico's offensive will get in Chelsea defends in trouble, especially as the experienced Terry is out with an injury. On paper Atletico are the favorites and they should be the team with most possession throughout the match. I expect Atletico to show that they are one of the European top clubs to keep an eye on for the future.

What are the odds?

Chelsea to win: 13/10 (Bet365)

Atletico Madrid to win: 13/5 (BetVictor)

Draw: 23/10 (SkyBet)

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Match of the week. Atletico Madrid v Chelsea

By Harbo on 01:37

It is two title contestants from two of the best leagues in the world, clashing in the UEFA Champions League semi-final on Tuesday.

Atletico Madrid v Chelsea

Vincente Calderón Stadium

UEFA Champions League Semi-finals

22-04-2014 @ 19.45 UK

How are the two teams current form?

Atletico Madrid are unbeaten in all of their home matches this season of the La Liga. The same matters for their Champions League campaign where the Madrilenes haven't lost a single match so far.

Chelsea are currently second in the Premier League after losing against Sunderland in the weekend. The Londoners won their Champions League group, but unlike Atletico they lost two of their matches. Furthermore, Chelsea lost the first leg of the quarter-finals against PSG, but managed to make an incredible comeback at Stamford Bridge.

The two sides have met three times before, latest in the UEFA Super Cup in 2012, where Atletico won 4-1.

What are the probable line-ups?

The home side is without Arda Turan and Javier Manquillo while Chelsea more or less should have an injury free squad for the match, but will be missing Eden Hazard.

Courtois

Juanfran - Godín - Miranda - Filipe

Garcia - Tiago - Gabi - Koke

Adrián

Costa

_______________________________

Eto'o

Schürrle - Willian - Oscar

Ramires - Matic

Azpilicueta - Cahill - Terry - Ivanovic

Cech

What to expect from this match?

Atletico was without Diego Costa, but Koke took over against Barcelona in the Quarter finals and with Costa back, they look even stronger. Comparing the two sides season, Atletico are the favorites and looks to have the best squad, especially given Chelsea's striker problems. However, Chelsea are unbeaten in their 15 last clashes with Spanish sides in the Champions League. The three competitive encounters between Atletico Madrid and Chelsea have produced 13 goals, so there should be a good chance we will see the ball in the back of the net on Tuesday.

What are the odds?

Ladbrokes offer odds 1 on a Atletico victory while a Chelsea triumph gives 7/2 at 888Sport. Betvictor offers a 12/5 odds on a draw. Furthermore, Eto'o as first goalscorer gives back odds 8 at SkyBet.

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Wednesday Predict

By Harbo on 13:54

Another round of the Premier League is coming up, and it is tight in both ends of the table! Great Dane Football Blog gives our predictions on the weekends matches.

Tottenham v Fulham

White Hart Lane

19-04-2014 @ 12.45 UK

Tottenham Hotspur (4-4-2): Lloris; Naughton, Chiriches, Kaboul, Rose; Lennon, Paulinho, Chadli, Eriksen; Kane, Adebayor.

Injuries: Etienne Capoue (Ankle), Michael Dawson (Hamstring), Erik Lamela (Thigh), Roberto Soldado (Hamstring), Jan Vertonghen (Calf), Kyle Walker (Groin) Doubts: Moussa Dembélé (Hip), Sandro (Calf) Bans: None.

Fulham (4-4-1-1): Stockdale; Riether, Hangeland, Haitinga, Amorebieta; Kasami, Sidwell, Diarra, Richardson; Dejagah; Rodallega.

Injuries: Matthew Briggs (Hernia), Damien Duff (Knee), Kostas Mitroglou (Knee) Doubts: Cauley Woodrow (Knock) Bans: None*

*Lewis Holtby cannot face parent club Tottenham as part of loan deal agreement.

Tottenham came behind with three in just 31 minutes against West Brom in the weekend but managed to comeback and play a draw. Spurs are now sixth in the league, six points behind Everton fifth. Fulham is eyeing survival in the Premier League after their victory against Norwich now means they are only two points under the relegation line. The Cottagers have now won their last two matches before visiting White Hart Lane. The last ten meetings between the two sides have ended with seven victories to Tottenham. Tottenham are the favorites and should, on paper, be able to take a win against Fulham.

Newcastle v Swansea

St James Park

19-04-2014 @ 15.00

Newcastle United (3-4-1-2): Krul; Taylor, Coloccini, Williamson; Anita, Gosling, Tioté, Dummett; Gouffran; Ameobi, Cissé.

Injuries: Mathieu Debuchy (Groin), Gabriel Obertan (Knee), Ryan Taylor (Knee), Loïc Remy (Calf), Sam Ameobi (Ankle), Moussa Sissoko (Hamstring) Doubts: Davide Santon (Knock) Bans: None.

Swansea City (4-2-3-1): Vorm; Rangel, Williams, Amat, Davies; Shelvey, Britton; Dyer, Michu, Routledge; Bony.

Injuries: None Doubts: Michu (Ankle), Dwight Tiendalli (Illness) Bans: None.

Just as we thought Newcastle had found their form they lost four consecutive matches in the Premier League, latest against Stoke last weekend. Swansea have lost their last two matches. Furthermore, the Swans have lost their last five away matches, so it is two teams in a miserable form meeting at St James Park. Swansea have won the last three meetings with Newcastle and despite their problems on the training pitch they are favorites against the Toons.

West Ham v Crystal Palace

Upton Park

19-04-2014 @ 15.00 UK

West Ham United (4-2-3-1): Adrián; Demel, Tomkins, Reid, Armero; Noble, Diamé; Jarvis, Nolan, Downing; Carroll.

Injuries: Marco Boriello (Hamstring), Joey O'Brien (Shoulder dislocation) Doubts: James Collins (Calf), Kevin Nolan (Hamstring) Bans: None.

Crystal Palace (4-4-1-1): Speroni; Mariappa, Dann, Delaney, Parr; Puncheon, Jedinak, Ward, Bolasie; Ledley; Jerome.

Injuries: None Doubts: Yannick Bolasie (Knock), Kagisho Dikgacoi (Knock) Bans: None.

Crystal Palace have turned away from the relegation zone with three consecutive wins and are heading towards top ten in the league. The next opponent is West Ham at Upton Park, and the two sides are currently side by side with 37 points before this match. After beating Hull and Sunderland, The Hammers have got their hands full against Liverpool and Arsenal, and are hoping to get back in form against Crystal Palace. The Hammers are favorites at home, but given The Glazers current form, this could go both ways.

Cardiff v Stoke

Cardiff City Stadium

19-04-2014 @ 15.00 UK

Cardiff City (4-1-4-1): Marshall; Théophile-Catherine, Caulker, Cala, Fabio; Medel; Kim Bo-Kyung, Mutch, Whittingham, Daehli; Campbell.

Injuries: Mark Hudson (Hamstring), Graig Noone (Abdominal injury) Doubts: John Declan (Knock), Kenwyne Jones (Knock), Ben Turner (Knock) Bans: None.

Stoke (4-2-3-1): Begovic; Cameron, Shawcross, Wilson, Pieters; N'Zonzi, Whelan; Odemwingie, Ireland, Arnautovic; Crouch.

Injuries: Oussama Assaidi (Knee), Matthew Etherington (Back), Robert Huth (Knee) Doubts: None Bans: None.

The battle for survival in the bottom of the Premier League is tight, and Cardiff can with a win take themselves over the relegation line. However, Stoke have only lost one of their five last matches and are moving up the table. The last meeting between the sides ended in a goalless draw, and this match could well end the same way. Cardiff will be standing tight in the defends and it will be hard for Stoke to break through the wall.

Aston Villa v Southampton

Villa Park

19-04-2014 @ 15.00 UK

Aston Villa (5-2-1-2): Guzan; Bacuna, Clark, Baker, Vlaar, Bertrand; El Ahmadi, Westwood; Delph; Holt, Agbonlahor.

Injuries: Christian Benteke (Achilles), Gary Gardner (Foot), Chris Herd (Personal reasons), Libor Kozák (Broken leg), Charles N'Zogbia (Achilles), Jores Okore (Knee) Doubts: Leandro Bacuna (Hamstring) Bans: None.

Southampton (4-2-3-1): Boruc; Chambers, Fonte, Lovren, Shaw; Schneiderlin, Cork; Davis, Ramírez, Lallana; Lambert.

Injuries: Kelvin Davis (Knock), Jay Rodriguez (Knee), Maya Yoshida (Knee) Doubts: Artur Boruc (Back) Bans: None.

Aston Villa are on a de route with four losses in a row before The Saints comes on a visit. Southampton have outplayed their role in the top and are settling for a sub-top position, but have lost their last two matches in the league. Aston Villa usually have a good take on Southampton, as they have won five of the last 10 meetings.

Chelsea v Sunderland

Stamford Bridge

19-04-2014 @ 17.30 UK

Chelsea (4-2-3-1): Cech; Ivanovic, Terry, Cahill, Azpilicueta; Ramires, Matic; Salah, Willian, Schürrle; Eto'o.

Injuries: None Doubts: Eden Hazard (Calf) Bans: None.

Sunderland (4-1-4-1): Mannone; Celustka, O'Shea, Brown, Alonso; Cattermole; Johnson, Colback, Ki, Borini; Wickham.

Injuries: Steven Fletcher (Ankle), Kieren Westwood (Shoulder) Doubts: Carlos Cuéllar (Hamstring), Liam Bridcutt (Personal reasons) Bans: Phillip Bardsley.

As tight as the battle for relegation is so is the battle for the trophy, and Chelsea are in the fight. The Pensioners are currently second after Liverpool. Sunderland are hopelessly lost in the bottom of the league and should be an easy task for Chelsea. In fact, Sunderland have only won two of the last ten meetings with Chelsea and this is very unlikely to change on Saturday.

Norwich v Liverpool

Carrow Road

20-04-2014 @ 12.00 UK

Norwich City (4-1-2-1-2): Ruddy; Martin, Turner, Bassong, Olsson; Johnson; Fer, Howson; Snodgrass; van Wolfswinkel, Redmond.

Injuries: None Doubts: Sébastien Bassong (Knock) Bans: None.

Liverpool (4-1-2-1-2): Mignolet; Johnson, Skrtel, Sakho, Flanagan; Gerrard; Allen, Coutinho; Sterling; Sturridge, Suárez.

Injuries: Sebastián Coates (Knee), Enrique (Knee) Doubts: Daniel Sturridge (Hamstring) Bans: Jordan Henderson.

Changing the manager didn't help Norwich and they are facing a hard time against Liverpool this week. After winning against Manchester City in the weekend, Liverpool looks most likely to win the Premier League this season, and Norwich is just a step towards the trophy. The Canaries are in desperate need of three points, but they won't get them against Liverpool.

Hull v Arsenal

KC Stadium

20-04-2014 @ 14.05 UK

Hull City (3-4-1-2): Harper; Bruce, Davies, Chester; Elmohamady, Livermore, Huddlestone, Rosenior; Meyler; Jelavic, Long.

Injuries: Robert Brady (Groin), Allan McGregor (Knock), Paul McShane (Ankle) Doubts: Joe Dudgeon (Lack of match fitness) Bans: None.

Arsenal (4-2-3-1): Szczesny; Sagna, Mertesacker, Koscielny, Monreal; Ramsey, Arteta; Rosicky, Cazorla, Podolski; Giroud.

Injuries: Abou Diaby (Knee), Ryo Miyaichi (Hamstring), Theo Walcott (Knee), Jack Wilshere (Foot) Doubts: Serge Gnabry (Knee), Nacho Monreal (Knock), Mesut Ozil (Hamstring) Bans: None.

The two FA Cup finalist are clashing in a 'pre final' on Sunday when Hull takes on Arsenal at KC Stadium. Arsenal got a win against West Ham last night and are fighting for one of the Champions League spots. Meanwhile, Hull is six points from relegation but can not feel safe just yet. Even though Arsenal are the favorites Hull could well take a win at home.

Everton v Manchester United

Goodison Park

20-04-2014 @ 16.10 UK

Everton (4-2-3-1): Howard; Coleman, Stones, Distin, Baines; Barry, McCarthy; Mirallas, Barkley, Osman; Lukaku.

Injuries: Darron Gibson (Knee), Phil Jagielka (Hamstring), Arouna Koné (Knee), Lacina Traoré (Hamstring), Bryan Oviedo (Broken leg), Steven Pienaar (Knee) Doubts: None Bans: None.

Manchester United (4-2-3-1): De Gea; Smalling, Vidic, Jones, Evra; Carrick, Fellaini; Januzaj, Mata, Kagawa; Hernández.

Injuries: Robin van Persie (Knee) Doubts: Rafael (Knock), Wayne Rooney (Toe) Bans: None.

Everton can take Arsenal's Champions League spot with a win against Manchester United on Sunday, and there is a good chance they will do just that. The last meeting between the two sided ended with an Everton victory and the home side are the favorites. That said, United is beginning to find their form in the Premier League aiming to qualify for the Europe League next season.

Manchester City v West Bromwich

City of Manchester Stadium

21-04-2014 @ 20.00 UK

Manchester City (4-2-2-2): Hart; Zabaleta, Demichelis, Kompany, Kolarov; Fernandinho, Javi García; Nasri, Silva; Dzeko, Aguero.

Injuries: Matija Nastasic (Knee), Yaya Touré (Groin) Doubts: None Bans: None.

West Bromwich Albion (4-2-3-1): Foster; Reid, McAuley, Olsson, Ridgewell; Mulumbu, Brunt; Amalfitano, Sessegnon, Dorrans; Vydra.

Injuries: Zoltán Gera (Hamstring) Bans: James Morrison (Muscle), Jonas Olsson (Achilles) Bans: None.

The last match of the round is between the leagues number three and 16. Manchester City are clear favorites against West Brom and the visitors will have little chance of getting a result at the City of Manchester Stadium. The visitors have not won against City since 2010, and given their current form they are going to work hard even to get a draw on Monday.

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Friday Five

By Harbo on 02:27

It is Friday and nearly weekend, and that means it is time to look back on this week's football events and highlights.

Tuesday April 8th - Demba Ba sends Chelsea on in the Champions League

They were behind 1-3 before the match, and most experts had already put Chelsea in the grave. However, Chelsea wanted it different and especially Demba Ba tried to convince Mourinho that he is still worth keeping in the squad. However, it was Schürrle who scored the first goal after an assist from David Luiz, and PSG didn't seem to be able to answer back. If it was Zlatan Ibrahimovic missing due to an injury, or the players just thought they could walk the victory home is hard to say. However, with just three minutes to go Ba paid back Mourinho's trust sending Chelsea on to the semifinals.

Wednesday April 9th - Hull name change

He wants it so badly, Assem Allam, to change Hull City to Hull Tigers, despite strong opposition from fans. However, the FA has now - for the second time - decided to decline his proposal meaning that Allam can not protest against the decision. The Egyptian has earlier this year threatened to leave the club if he failed to be granted permission for his name switch. Will the fans finally get rid of their number one target?

Wednesday April 9th - Manchester United are out

After 1-1 at Old Trafford, Manchester United fans were hoping their team could surprise once again at Allianz Arena and send Bayern Munich out in the cold. After a rather boring first half where none of the teams looked as they were there to win - Munich could settle with 0-0 result - things started taking speed in the second half. First Patrice Evra scored a goal of a lifetime giving the fans hopes and believe in a semifinal, but less than two minutes after Mandzukic killed the hope. Manchester kept trying and that opened for first Müller and then Robben to finish off Manchester United's Champions League adventure.

Wednesday April 9th - Barca are also out!

Atletico Madrid's win against Barcelona ended the Catalan's unprecedented run of reaching the semi-finals of the Champions League for six consecutive seasons. However, the Barcelona players were outplayed by an Atletico side in great form who deserved the win more than the Catalans did. A player as Lionel Messi was very disappointing and only ran about 6km - the same as José Manuel Pinto in the goal. Koke gave Atletico the lead after just five minutes, and the Madrilenes kept the lead till the end of the match. Could Atletico win the Champions League this season?

Friday April 11th - Cardiff accuse Crystal Palace of spying

Controversial Cardiff City owner Vincent Tan have written to the Premier League accusing former Head of Recruitment Iain Moody, who is not Sporting Director at Palace of spying. According to Tan, Moody should have used contacts at the club to ascertain the starting line-up before the sides met on Saturday. After the 0-3 loss to the Eagles, Tan wrote to Premier League chief Richard Scudamore demanding an investigation, but the Premier League have told Cardiff to make a formal complaint if they wish to take things further.

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Match of the Week: Bayern Munich v Manchester United

By Harbo on 02:21

Manchester United surprised most of the football world when they played a draw against Bayern Munich; Wednesday they can save their season in the second leg of the Champions League quarter finals.

Bayern Munich v Manchester United

Champions League Quarter finals 2. Leg

Allianz Arena

09-04-2014 @ 19.45 UK

How are the two teams form?

Bayern Munich have already won the German 1. Bundesliga, but lost against Augsburg in the weekend; the first defeat of the season. Manchester United, on the other hand, took an impressive 4-0 win against Newcastle on Saturday and are currently sixth in the Premier League.

What are the probable lineups?

Munich's Bastian Schweinsteiger and Javi Martínez are both out with a ban while not less than seven players are out with injuries. United are without Robin van Persie while Wayne Rooney, Ashley Young and Ryan Giggs are doubtful.

Neuer

Rafinha - Dante - Boateng - Rafinha

Lahm - Götze

Robben - Kroos - Ribéry

Müller

______________________________

Welbeck

Young - Rooney - Valencia

Giggs - Fletcher

Evra - Ferdinand - Vidic - Jones

De Gea

What to expect from this match?

Manchester United visits Allianz Arena with the hope of another Champions League miracle as the one we saw in 1999 in the final - against Bayern Munich. However, Bayern have drawn the first leg of a European knockout tie 1-1 away from home 11 times in the past, and have progressed to the next round in all 11 of those ties. In the last 10 meetings (inclusive friendlies) between the two sides, Manchester United have only won on one occasion. The Red Devils is going into a hard match, and Bayern Munich are the favorites on Wednesday.

What are the odds?

The bookmakers doesn't have much faith in Manchester United with a odds as high as 14 from BETVICTOR. A draw gives the odds 57/10 with youwin while Betway gives 1/4 for a Bayern Munich victory.

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Match of the Week: Paris St Germain v Chelsea

By Harbo on 03:41

Two financial strong teams meets in the Champions League, but which one can go on to the next round? The Match of the Week is the first leg between Paris St Germain and Chelsea.

Paris St Germain v Chelsea

Parc de Princes

Champions League Quarter-finals

02-04-2014 @ 19.45 UK

How are the two teams form?

The hosts from Paris are unbeaten in their last 15 Ligue 1 matches, and have only lost one of their matches in Champions League. Their opponents, Chelsea, lost against Crystal Palace in the weekend and have lost their last two away matches, and have lost two of their Champions League matches this season.

Chelsea won the last meeting between the two sides, back in 2012 when they met in the World Cup for club teams.

How are the probable lineups?

While Paris Saint Germain are injury free according to Transfermarkt, Chelsea will be without Ashley Cole, Samuel Eto'o and Marco van Ginkel.

Sirigu

van der Wiel - Alex - Thiago - Maxwell

Motta

Matuidi - Verratti

Lucas - Ibrahimovic - Lavezzi

__________________________________________

Torres

Hazard - Oscar - Willian

Matic - Luiz

Azpilicueta - Cahill - Terry - Ivanovic

Cech

What to expect from this match?

It's Zlatan against Hazard when PSG and Chelsea clashes at Parc de Princes, and we are looking to get a treat from the two sides. This is Paris Saint Germains opportunity to show Europe that French football is back in the top, and the side have the squad to cause problems for Chelsea. That said, the Brits have the experience and especially their defence should be able to keep Zlatan away from the goal. However, in the other end of the pitch they look less dangerous with Fernando Torres as the only striker available at the moment. Chelsea have played PSG twice in Europe before this season, and have kept a clean sheet in both matches and they can do it again on Wednesday, but at the same time PSG have scored in 16 successive ChL matches, netting at least twice in 12 of these games. The Chelsea defence will be crucial in the match, and I believe it can end in a 1-1 draw.

What are the odds?

PSG are the favorites according to oddschecker.com, with Boylesport having a 11/10 odds on the French. On the other hand, BETVICTOR has a 31/10 bet on a Chelsea victory while a draw gives 5/2 at bet365.

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Friday Five

By Harbo on 03:06

It's Friday and time for our weekly look back at what have happened the last seven days.

Friday 21st March - Champions League draw

We can look forward to some killer games in this years Champions League Quarter-finals. Manchester United will get their hands full against Bayern Munich while Chelsea will meet PSG in a battle between two giants. Furthermore, Dortmund, once again, meets Real Madrid in a replay of last season. In the last match we can look forward to a Spanish battle between Atletico Madrid and Barcelona. The Champions League is treating us well this year!

Tuesday 25th March - The Manchester Derby

Manchester City took the third win of three at Old Trafford with a 3-0 win in the Derby. Edin Dzeko brought his total goals for City to 40 when he scored in the first minute and again in the 56th before Touré finished the humiliation with a goal in the last minute. The Manchester City win was not even close to the result from the last match at Etihad, but the Sky Blues dominated the Red Devils throughout the match.

Wednesday 26th March - #Moyesout

The morning after Manchester United's derby defeat saw #Moyesout trending on Twitter for the second time. The manager came under fire already during the match where stewards were sent to guard the famous banner supporting David Moyes at Old Trafford. However, Wednesday morning hundreds of tweets from furios fans and comical memes were tweeted under the hashtag #moyesout. Whether Manchester United will listen to their fans only time can show.

Wednesday 26th March - Kasper Schmeichel scores! or did he?

Did Kasper Schmeichel scorer his first goal for Leicester or was it Chris Wood? We will let you decide:

Thursday 27th March - UEFA launches new European league

The Nations League is as the name implies a new international tournament with the European national teams playing against each other instead of the friendlies. The concept of the tournament hasn't been confirmed yet, but the leagues (four levels) will start in autumn 2018, and four Euro places will be in play. The 54 member associations will be divided into four groups after their world ranking, and the nations will play either four or six matches during autumn 2018. During 2019, the nations will play for promotion or relegation depending on their position in the league. The Nations League is thought to run along with the Euro- and World Cup-qualifications.

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Friday Five

By Harbo on 04:40

Another week has gone by, and a lot have happened in the world of football; Great Dane Football Blog have picked five highlights, in a week where records have been broken.

Friday March 14 - Anelka sacked by West Bromwich

Nicolas Anelka's West Bromwich Albion career ended Friday night when the French nomad was sacked for "gross misconduct." The striker was given a five-match ban and a £80,000 fine by the FA for the quenelle gesture he mad at Upton Park in December. Just hours before he was sacked, he Anelka announced that he was terminating his playing contract with the club, but it turned out he was sacked. His hunt for a new club might turn out to be a hard one as FIFA is considering a global ban for the 'quenelle.'

Sunday March 15 - Mourinho

Aston Villa won against Chelsea on Sunday, but it was Willian, Ramires and Mourinho who stole the picture. First, Willian was sent off after two yellow cards, then Ramires, rightful, was sent off before Mourinho was asked to leave the bench for arguing with the ref. William only had himself to blame after receiving a second yellow card for a cynical challenge to stop a Delph run. Ramires challenge was not much better, and finally Mourinho felt the referee was against him. Mourinho was yesterday charged for improper misconduct.

Sunday March 15 - Zlatan breaks PSG record

The Swede took his season tally to a club-record with 40 goals in the 2-0 win against St Etienne. Ibrahimovic surpassed Carlos Bianchi's record from the 1977-78 season where the Argentine scored 39 goals. Zlatan surely is one of the best strikers in the world, but credits have to be given to the team behind him and the league he is playing in. Many still believes that Zlatan could be playing in a much better league than the French. However, the Swede can now add another record to his long cv.

Monday March 16 - Lionel Messi breaks Barcelona record

He is only 26 but have already made his 25th hat-trick for Barcelona on Sunday. As it wasn't enough, the hattrick helped the Argentinian to become Barcelona's all-time leading scorer when he helped his side to a 7-0 win over Osasuna. Messi have now scored 371 goals and eclipsed the record set by Paulino Alcantara who scored 369 goals in 356 appearances between 1912-1927. This is the sixth consecutive season in which the Argentinian has scored 30 goals, and currently on 18 goals this season.

Tuesday March 17 - Ronaldo is set to break record

After Real Madrid's Champions League win against Schalke on Wednesday, where Ronaldo scored twice the Portuguese is only 2 goals away from breaking the Champions League goalscoring record. The record holder at the moment is Ronaldo's rival from Barcelona with 14 goals. However, with 13 goals on the account Ronaldo is more than likely to take the Champions League goalscoring record this season.

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