D Pundit's EPL Correct Score Tips

Last weekend, I got five match outcomes correctly, including the score-line of the game involving Manchester United and Liverpool at Old Trafford. So, if you are missing out on these juicy tips, make a change now.

Which team looks good to come out on top this weekend? Read on to find out...

Southampton vs Manchester United

Manchester United got their first three points against Liverpool last weekend and to be sincere, it was easy to predict. Erik Ten Hag's men weren't going to display another lackluster performance after losing scandalously to Brentford 4-0 in the previous weekend. So, it was easy to predict that they were going to step up their performance against Jurgen Klopp's side. I am also going to predict another win for them here as I expect them to build on the momentum from the win against Liverpool.

Southampton also won last weekend at Leicester but they will struggle against an in-form Manchester United side. So I am backing the Red Devils for a win here.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Southampton 0-2 Manchester United

Liverpool vs Bournemouth

I think Liverpool will get their first win of the season here. Any result other than a win will be considered shocking looking at the quality of opponent they are facing. Bournemouth are no pushovers but they really lack the quality to excel in the topflight. I know Liverpool are also struggling at the moment, but if they really want to turn their season around, then they should be winning here.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Liverpool 2-0 Bournemouth

Manchester City vs Crystal Palace

I know many people will be predicting an easy ride for Manchester City here but I beg to differ. Crystal Palace are a very technical side under Patrick Vieira and I think they will cause Manchester City lots of trouble here. But Manchester City have got tremendous quality in their ranks so I expect them to find a way to come out on top here even though I expect it to be tough for Pep Guardiola's men.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Manchester City 2-1 Crystal Palace

Chelsea vs Leicester

Chelsea were really humbled at Leeds last weekend but I think their manager will be asking for a reaction here. I think they will struggle to beat Leicester but I still am confident they will prevail here. Leicester are really struggling this season and I expect them to lose again here on Saturday as I just can't see them getting anything from a Chelsea side that will be rejuvenated after losing horrendously last weekend.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Chelsea 2-1 Leicester City

Brentford vs Everton

Brentford lost at Fulham last weekend but they are really a very quality team under Thomas Frank. They showed everyone the stuff they are made of when they walloped Manchester United 4-0 the other day. I think they will win here against a very poor Everton side. Everton are really struggling and I think they will find it hard to get anything here against a very resolute Brentford side.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Brentford 1-0 Everton

Brighton vs Leeds United

In my opinion, this is the biggest match of the weekend because of the quality of these two sides. Both managers are quality coaches who love to see their team play on the front foot. I will really love to watch this game because it promises to be very entertaining. I really can't find a winner here as these two sides have been undeafed so far this season. So I am just going to back this game to end in a very entertaining draw.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Brighton 2-2 Leeds United

Arsenal vs Fulham

Arsenal have been flying this season but this game should really test their resolve.

Fulham have shown so far that they are a team to beat as they are currently undeafed. I expect Arsenal to really work hard for their win here because Fulham are going to push them hard. But I going to predict a slim win here for the Gunners as they are playing on their turf in front of their fans.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Arsenal 2-1 Fulham

Aston Villa vs West Ham

West Ham have lost all their games so far in this campaign but I think they will pick up their first point here. Aston Villa are also struggling this season and I really see this game ending in a draw.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Aston Villa 1-1 West Ham

Wolves vs Newcastle

I thought Newcastle were very impressive against Manchester City last weekend. They were on course to win that game if not for a moment of brilliance from Pep Guardiola's men. I think if they keep up that kind of performance here they will win. Wolves are no pushovers but they have been poor this season as they are still without a win. I think they will really struggle against Newcastle here, so I will just stick with a Newcastle win.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Wolves 0-1 Newcastle

Nottingham Forest vs Tottenham

Tottenham should win this game if they turn up and show their quality. But I think they have not been very convincing with their performance so far albeit they are winning. I think they will struggle to win here against a very resolute Nottingham Forest side. I really see this game ending in a draw. But if the game goes on to produce a winner then it should be Tottenham.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Nottingham Forest 0-0 Tottenham

NFF "saddened" by Falconets travel snafu, promises bonus payments

 

Falconets on arrival in Abuja and received by NFF officials led by General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi

After a grueling travel schedule, Nigeria's under 20 women's national team finally arrived home on Wednesday afternoon and were received at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport, Abuja by an NFF delegation led by General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi, who expressed sadnesss at the travel snafu experienced by the team.

The team spent 24 hours at Istanbul's Ataturk airport sleeping on the floor while waiting for their connecting flight to Nigeria after flight delays saw them miss their original connection

"We just want to let you know that Nigerians appreciated all you did," Sanusi told the players. "But we are saddened that on your way back, you had to sleep at the airport for reasons beyond our control. The arrangement was done by FIFA and you know what happened better than us."

Sanusi also promised the players that the NFF would pay them qualifying bonuses for the tournament 

"We want to assure you that the same time the Super Falcons are going to be paid, you are also going to be paid your bonuses."

Earlier on Wednesday, the federation released a statement explaining the embracing travel situation 

“The NFF did not book the team’s tickets from Costa Rica; FIFA did," Ssanusi said in the statement. "FIFA also did not envisage the hitches that saw the team delayed for more than three hours in Bogota, and another one hour in Panama. By the time the team got to Istanbul, the flight to Abuja had left.

 

“Our officials pleaded for compassionate transit visas so as to take the players and officials to a hotel inside the town, but this was not possible as they were informed that Nigeria had been removed from the list of countries whose citizens were issued visa-on-arrival in Turkey. 

"The airline then took the team to a sleeping area at the airport and gave them tickets to have meals every five hours. This situation has nothing to do with NFF, who had made arrangements to receive the team in Abuja before the complications in travel arrangements.”

 

The federation also explained that the players chose to wash their jerseys by hand on their own, but was quiet as to why they had to buy footwear with borrowed money

 “The players were handed three sets of green jerseys and two sets of white jerseys, several house-wear types and training jerseys. The players opted to wash only their jersey top (no other stuff) because when the first set of body-wear was sent to the laundry people at the hotel, it returned with some FIFA and NFF badges at the front and names at the back peeled by the machine.” 

Dejected Falconets sleep on Turkey airport floor

 

It is rare that a Nigerian national team travels to an international competition and returns sans drama, usually of the embarrassing and disgraceful variety.

And once again, that ugly devil strikes again, with the Under 20 women’s team stuck at the Istanbul airport on a 24 hour layover, sleeping on airport benches, and on the floor of the biting cold airport.

That is just the latest in a litany of troubles the team has faced while competing at the tournament.

Beneath their stirring performance at the 2022 FIFA Under 20 Women’s World Cup, the Falconets weathered and continue to weather head winds that not even adults should have to experience, let alone teenage kids.

Player sources say the team were provided very limited equipment, with just three sets of their green home kit and two sets of the white away kit. This meant the players had to wash their jersey by hand after every game, and were unable to exchange jerseys.

Worse, despite the NFF having an official kit supplier, the young ladies were not supplied official footwear and were asked instead to buy their own footwear.

And so the players - who are only getting paid $50 as daily match allowance and no bonuses - borrowed money to buy Nike sneakers and playing boots.

Worse was to come. 

After their elimination against the Netherlands, the players had barely three hours to sleep before heading off to the airport, expecting to arrive home within a day or two. They were sorely mistaken.

“We’ve been on a trip to Nigeria since 6:30am Monday. We are currently sleeping at the Istanbul Airport awaiting a 6pm Wednesday flight Istanbul time  to Abuja.”

How did that happen?

According to team officials, their tickets were booked for Tuesday evening on Avianca.

But the Colombian flag carrier rebooked the team on Turkish Air leading to a four-hour delay in Colombia. That, coupled with a stop in Panama meant the team missed their Tuesday connection flight.

NFF’s Leader of Delegation Ruth David tried in vain to ask the airline for accommodation, but without transit visas, the pleas accomplished nothing and the team were forced to spend 24 hours at the airport awaiting their connecting flight to Abuja

But their struggles will not end when they arrive in Abuja. The players have been given N40 000 each as local transport allowance.

Meaning that after three days of grueling travel, they would have to travel by road (or train) from Abuja to whatever state their final destination is.

To be a Nigerian. . .

SABASTINE'S FLOURISH AND OTHER OBSERVATIONS FROM FALCONETS 1-0 WIN OVER FRANCE

 

After the crushing disappointment of Randy Waldrum’s poorly-coached Super Falcons at the 2022 Women Africa Cup of Nations, football fans were looking up to the Falconets to restore some measure of respect back to the name at the FIFA Under 20 World Cup.

Hopes may be one thing, expectations are quite another. So, despite those hope, not many expected them to do too well against European champions France. 

Which would explain why not many Nigerians stayed up at the ungodly midnight hour that it was in Nigeria, to watch the next iteration of Super Falcons open their World Cup campaign.

But Christopher Danjuma’s girls were not to be discouraged, and completely dominated and outclassed the bigger, more physical French players in the opening 20 minutes under torrential rain.

The downpour forced the game to be suspended, and on resumption, they appeared to have lost some of their steam, the French looking marginally better in the second half of the first half.

Still, Flourish Sabastine’s well-placed goal late in the game sealed a well-earned win and three points for the Nigerian girls. More than that, their disciplined tactical play was a marked improvement from the dross Nigerians were served at WAFCON.

So what did we take away from their heartening win? Here goes

THIS IS HOW WE PLAY

Watching the Falconets play out with confidence from the back, passing the ball crisply, playing as a team, making good runs, using space and just generally making good decisions overall, reminded Nigerians exactly why they fell in love with the original Super Falcons in the first place.

Yess, the team made some basic errors and some of their decision-making, especially in the final third could have been better. But their foundations looked good, and it was clear that they were trying to play the right way. Always looking to find the open player, never ball hogging, quick, energetic and disciplined, esspecially in defence.

France, as good as they were, did not present any real threat in open play, Their most dangerous opportunities only came from corner kicks. Which takes us nicely into point 2

SET PIECE DEFENDING AND GOALKEEPING MUST IMPROVE

Almost everything the girls did was superb. The one area where they had issues was in defending set pieces, especially those lateral balls from cornerkicks. Goalkeeper Oyono Omini was having troubling dealing with crosses, flapping away at them with troubling regularity. That included one occasion when her misjudgement saw the ball bundled in by substitute Jade Nassi. Thankfully, that was chalked off - with the aid of VAR - for a foul on Omini, but the worries remain.

If the Falconets, two-time runners up, are to match and even exceed their previous results by winning the whole shebang, they will need improved showings from Omini. Or a replacement.

FLOURISH LEADS CAST OF IMPRESSIVE STARS

What a joy it was to watch Flourish Sabastine, and not just for her goal. All game long, her energy, positive attitude, fearless ability to take players on and skill on the ball marked her out as one to make a difference which she eventually did with a controlled precise finish.

But she was not alone. Skipper Oluwatosin Demehin showed why she earned an invitation to the senior squad, defending with composure, unyielding in her strength, quick to the ball and smart in making her reads of dangerous plays.

And in midfield, Esther Onyenezide showed she could be as smooth an operator as any.

Mercy Idoko’s vision to pick out Sabastine for that flourishing finish was just as worthy of commendation as any. And one needs to keep an eye on left back Rofiat Imuran

D Pundit's Super Betting tips for EPL Match Day 2

 

- By Godwin Odiko

Last weekend, we witnessed so many shocking results but I still got five match outcomes correctly including the score-line of the match involving Newcastle and Nottingham Forest. So, which team is on course to produce a shocking result this weekend in the Premier League? 

Read on to find out

Aston Villa vs Everton

I was very disappointed with Aston Villa last weekend as I expected them to at least get a point at newly-promoted Bournemouth. But they went on to lose the game 2-0.

I think they will struggle here again against Everton. Frank Lampard's men are not also convincing but they have got more quality and I think they will get something from this clash. 

So, I am going to go for a draw here. But if the game goes on to produce a winner then it will be Everton 

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Aston Villa 1-1 Everton

Manchester City vs Bournemouth

I am going to go for an Erling Haaland hat-trick here. This will be Manchester City's first home game and they will be looking to produce a spectacular performance and I expect the Norwegian striker to really flourish in this game.

I will be surprised if Bournemouth are still in this game at halftime. Therefore I am going for a 5-0 win for Pep Guardiola's men which should propel  them to the top of the table.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Manchester City 5-0 Bournemouth

Arsenal vs Leicester City

Arsenal have won the last three meetings between these two sides and I think they will win here again on Saturday.

Leicester have still not brought in any player to add quality to their squad and I think they will struggle this season if they end up not signing any player before the transfer window closes.

Having said that, I am back the Gunners to win here, albeit; a very slim victory.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Arsenal 2-1 Leicester City

Wolves vs Fulham

I thought Fulham were very impressive last weekend against Liverpool. If they can replicate the same performance here they will defeat Wolves.

If Aleksandar Mitrović's performance against Liverpool is anything to go by, then Wolves are in for some trouble in this one.

I am going to go for a draw here as I really fancy Fulham getting something out of this clash.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Wolves 1-1 Fulham

Southampton vs Leeds United

Southampton will really need to produce an extraordinary performance to win here as I see Leeds United as clear favorites.

Jesse Marsch's men will be looking to consolidate on their victory against Wolves last weekend and I really do not see this poor Southampton side stopping them. 

I am going to back Leeds United to win here but I think it's going to be a tough victory for them considering the fact that they are playing away from home.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Southampton 0-1 Leeds United

Brighton vs Newcastle

I am struggling to really separate these two clubs as I am really impressed with their performance last weekend. Brighton went to Manchester United last weekend and completely outclassed them. They will be looking to build on that performance here.

Newcastle were also very impressive against Nottingham Forest last weekend and they will be looking to continue in that vein of form.

I am really struggling to pick a winner here to be very sincere so I will just bank on this one to end in a draw.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Brighton 2-2 Newcastle

Brentford vs Manchester United

Manchester United will be looking to appease their fans for what was a very embarrassing defeat at home to Brighton last weekend. Anything other than a Manchester United win here is unacceptable to the fans.

However, Brentford are no pushovers and they will also be looking to cause Erik Ten Hag's men more trouble on their turf. But I think the Red Devils should be able to win this one. I just can't see Manchester United coming out of this clash with any result other than victory.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Brentford 1-2 Manchester United

Nottingham Forest vs West Ham

West Ham have got more quality than Nottingham Forest and I think if they really show their quality here they will win. Nottingham Forest are newbies and will need time to fully acclimatize to the rigours of the Premier League. I think Nottingham Forest will struggle here against David Moyes' men. So, I am backing the Hammers to take all three points from this encounter.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Nottingham Forest 0-2 West Ham

Chelsea vs Tottenham

This is unarguably the biggest fixture of the weekend. Tottenham have shown so far in the transfer window that they really mean business and they also put up a commanding display in their opening fixture against Southampton last weekend. They will be looking to build on that performance here and try to get something out of this clash.

Meanwhile, Chelsea weren't really convincing against Everton last weekend despite winning the game 1-0. So, if they are not careful in this game they might lose to Antonio Conte's men.

However, I think this one will end in a very entertaining draw as I see both teams finding the back of each other's net.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Chelsea 2-2 Tottenham

Liverpool vs Crystal Palace

If Liverpool really want to contend with Manchester City for the title this season then they should be winning this sort of match. They dropped two points against newly promoted promoted Fulham last weekend, they just can't afford to drop any point in this game.

Crystal Palace will try to make things difficult for Liverpool but I think the quality of Jurgen Klopp's men will be too much for the Eagles to handle.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Liverpool 2-0 Crystal Palace

D’Pundit Picks for EPL MatchDay 1

 

Football is back! The wait is finally over. I will be dishing out weekly predictions on all the matches to be played in the EPL this season. So, join me on the ride. 

Which teams will win their first EPL games this season? Read up my predictions to find out

Crystal Palace vs Arsenal

Crystal Palace took four points from this fixture over two legs last season and they will be raring to continue in that vein of form this season.

Crystal Palace under Patrick Vieira have been very impressive and I see them finishing well again this season. However, I expect Mikel Arteta's men to give us the viewers a real spectacle on Friday night. Judging from Arsenal's pre-season performance, they should impress this season but I still can't put my money on them finishing in the top four this season.

I will bank on the game to end in a draw as I am struggling to find a winner here.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Crystal Palace 1-1 Arsenal

Fulham vs Liverpool

Liverpool layed down a marker with their Community Shield triumph over Manchester City and I am going to back them to win the league this season.

Fulham on their part will struggle again playing topflight football and they will also struggle to withstand Jurgen Klopp's men on Saturday. So it's a comfortable Liverpool win for me. infact, I will be surprised if Fulham are still in the game at halftime.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Fulham 0-3 Liverpool

Tottenham vs Southampton

Tottenham have really done well on the transfer market so far, but it remains to be seen if they will replicate their impressive transfer dealings on the field of play.

Southampton were lucky not to be relegated last season and I think they will still struggle this season. 

I think Tottenham will have too much for Ralph Hasenhüttl's men.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Tottenham 2-0 Southampton

Leeds United vs Wolves

This two sides are at their very best a midtable team. But I think this game will be entertaining on Saturday with both teams looking to lay down a marker. However, I think Wolves should be able to get something here so I am going for a draw.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Leeds United 1-1 Wolves

Bournemouth vs Aston Villa

Aston Villa look very inspiring under Steven Gerrard and I think they will get something out of this clash.

Bournemouth will struggle in the league this season and I see them returning back to the Championship at the end of the season.

I am just going to back Aston Villa to win here, albeit very slim one.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Bournemouth 1-2 Aston Villa

Newcastle vs Nottingham Forest

I won't be surprised if Newcastle finish in the top six this season. They have a wealthy owner these days and they have looked very ambitious. They are chasing Leicester City's James Maddison. If they can get him, I think that will really improve their quality.

Nottingham Forest on their part were very impressive in the championship last season but it remains to be seen if they can also impress playing topflight football this season.

I am just going to stick with Newcastle to win on their turf with the backing of their fans.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Newcastle 2-0 Nottingham Forest

Everton vs Chelsea

I think Chelsea should be able to win this one. if the Blues want to finish in the top four this season, then they should be winning this sort of matches. However, I expect Frank Lampard's Everton side to trouble Chelsea but still Thomas Tuchel's men should be able to edge this encounter.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Everton 1-2 Chelsea

Manchester United vs Brighton

Just like I said about Chelsea, if Manchester United want to finish in the top four this season then they should be winning this sort of match. However, Brighton are no pushovers and should give Erik Ten Hag's men lot of problem on Sunday.

The Red Devils impressed in pre-season and I think if they replicate same form here they should be able to win this one. I am going for a Manchester United win here in front of their fans but it's going to be a very tight game.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Manchester United 2-1 Brighton

Leicester City vs Brentford

So far, Leicester City remains the only side to have not bring in any new face ahead of the new season. Do I think they can finish as high as eighth as they finished last season? No. They will need to reinforce their squad if they wish to finish anywhere close to where they finished last season.

Brentford really impressed last season and I am backing them to get something from this clash. Therefore, I am going for a draw.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Leicester City 1-1 Brentford

West Ham vs Manchester City

Pep Guardiola's men will be looking to retain the title this season. But they need to show their quality here if they desire a win in this clash. They were very unappealing against Liverpool in the Community Shield and will need to step up their performance here to get the maximum points.

West Ham can be very difficult to play against on their day and City will be hoping it's not West Ham's day on Sunday.

I am going for a Manchester City win here but it going to be a very slim one.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: West Ham 0-1 Manchester City

Vengeful Lionesses Tamed and Nigeria's 'La Decima' Quest Continues

It was meant to be a belle party experience but turned out a gritty, feisty feast of stop-starts in, perhaps, the most-anticipated clash of the Morocco 2022 CAF Women's African Cup of Nations.

A well-recycled ball by Gotham FC's Ifeoma Onumonu was plunged into the back of the Cameroonian net with Ange Bawou caught napping on her near side by a perfectly placed header from the blue-haired Rasheedat Ajibade, and that was all she wrote as the champions, Nigeria women's national team continued the defence of the title last won on Ghanaian soil four years ago.

The win takes the Super Falcons into the semis where they will play against a Moroccan side that has earned the right to be tagged a formidable opponent.

Before Monday's semifinal showdown with the host, let's check out some of the talking points from the 1-0 win of Nigeria over the Indomitable Lionesses.

Rasheedat Ajibade, a Contender for the MVP 

This is becoming her tournament, and oh my, she's wearing every game like a well-made dinner dress.

Her goal, from the team's only shot on target on the night, is why Nigeria will play Down Under next year when Australia and New Zealand host the FIFA Women's World Cup.

Called RASH, the Atletico de Madrid player has come through the ranks from the juvenile levels to becoming a mainstay in the best team on the continent. 

Although she's won the WAFCON, a 2018 feat, she's definitely hungry for more and that shows in every game she's played in in Morocco.

The 22-year-old gave a WOTM performance against Cameroon with her tenacious contributions across the forward line, and throughout this competition has been a tricky customer for her markers. 

With three goals and two assists, she's the lead scorer of this tourney alongside Morocco's captain, Ghizlane Chebbak, who has two WOTM awards to her name. Both will face off on Monday and their individual performances will surely be an exciting sub-plot of the battle ahead.

Super Falcons Must Make the Most of Set Plays

Times have changed. Big scorelines have thinned out. Women's football has grown and the days when the Falcons handed out heavy defeats to their opponents are long gone. But the team boasts of quality, grounded players that will always trouble oppositions. They'll always create chances and force teams to commit corners and free kicks in dangerous areas. So, they must readapt to taking advantage of these set pieces.

Aside from the penalty kick goal by Ajibade against Burundi and a Christy Ucheibe hearder off a corner, Nigeria has had a plethora of these opportunities but failed to turn a lot into goals.

Eight goals in four games make for an average of two per game. Not a bad return in these times but can be much better if set plays are harnessed. 

Who Won the Battle of the Midfield?

My post match tag for this game is Battle of the Midfield. And neither Cameroon nor Nigeria won. This rivalry historically dates back to when this championship started in 1991. It has metamorphosed into a tight and conservative contest. This particular one was hard sore, draining and left the players leaving their hearts on the field. Didn't expect less as there were so much at stake.

Cameroon's five-person midfield set-up and three for their West African foes made the encounter not pretty for viewing, had plenty of play disruptions, aerial and ground duels ended in fouls and cautions. No way this game could have produced more than a goal.

Matter of fact, it took a moment of sweet dribbling skill from Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene, out-of-position precise cross from Onumonu and a well-struck header by Ajibade for both teams to be separated by the odd margin. Other than that, this fixture was destined for a penalty shootout. 

#GoingFor10 Alive and Running

It's been an arduous journey so far for the African champions. They've played Africa's top teams - Ghana and Cote d'Ivore in the qualifiers, South Africa and Cameroon at the tournament. A few bumps here and there but 'La Decima' dream is still hale and hearty.

Nigeria went into Morocco 2022 on the back of a social media campaign #GoingFor10, asking for support as they bid to win a 10th WAFCON crown. 

As the final whistle blew and history repeated, Nigeria sealed a ninth consecutive ticket to the FIFA WWC. At the end of this championship, this might be the sweetest achievement for Nigeria considering the fact that they are Africa's best and have another chance to equalling their best outing at the World Cup - a quarterfinal in 1999 - or do better.

The team's third oldest player in Morocco at 34, Rita Chikwelu, winner of two African titles, couldn't hold back tears with the Nigerian flag on her shoulders after the win against Cameroon. Going to the World Cup next year could be her swan song to wrap up a decorated career that started in 2007. 

Kudos to Cameroon; WC Hope Still Alive

“We will do everything to win this match” was what Cameroon coach, Gabriel Zabo said before the game. And he did have a plan to make that happen - resolute defending, stiffle the Nigerians when in possession and hit them on the transition. 

Led by Estelle Johnson in the defence, the Lionesses limited the Falcons to just one shot on target (proved to be the difference though) and just four corners. Nigeria's frontline personnel were reduced to constantly changing positions due to Cameroon's great man-marking capacity.

The journey back home will be a long, reflective one but this effort in futility doesn't mean they're out of the chase for a world cup ticket. There's a glimmer of hope - a playoff match and a path to the FIFA WWC through the extended playoff process.

Once Again, Desiree Ellis Proves to be Super Falcons Kryptonite

South Africa forward Thembi Kgatlana flies over Nigeria goalkeeper Tochi Oluehi in their opening match of the CAF Africa Women Cup of Nations. South Africa won 2-1

- Kufre Ekpe

Desiree Ellis proved that she is the Super Falcons kryptonite when she masterminded a third win in four games against the reigning champions for the second consecutive opening game of the Africa Women Cup of Nations.

It was the same occurrence forty-four months ago at Ghana 2018. But this particular concept has a second part, and that would be a Morocco 2022 final match-up between Nigeria and Banyana Banyana, ending in a win for the former, just like it happened in Ghana.

But that is history that Ellis, a former player herself who suffered multiple defeats against Nigeria, is planning against. She says a lot has changed though for her girls since they last played the Super Falcons at the WAFCON four years ago. “We know what happened in 2018, but we have matured over the past four years and there are changes in our team,” Ellis said after the win.

Noone can agree more. These ladies are more developed, experiended, tactical, motivated and hungrier. With these, the scepticism of many who think it will not be easy-peasy for the nine-time African champions shouldn't be waved aside.

All of these come down to South Africa's investments in the beautiful game over the last few years. In the past, they have always played second fiddle to their Nigerian counterparts. The hope is that this is the year they conquer Africa. Ellis has handled the team since 2016, and her great knowledge of the women's game has developed South African football. The results are vastly seen in how Banyana Banyana have closed the gap on other power houses, in efforts, results and tactics.

The women's league in South Africa is one of the few best administered in Africa. The returns were seen in the inaugural CAF Women's Champions League title lifted by the Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies in 2021.

Regionally, they have won seven of the nine COSAFA Women's Championships. Continentally, the South African ladies have finished second on five occasions. Globally, they have been to two of the last three Olympics and played at the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup - their first and only participation, so far.

Just last year at the Aisha Buhari Cup in Lagos, they became the first African side to condemn the Falcons to their heaviest defeat, a 4-2 win.
 


PURPOSEFUL FROM KICKOFF

The South Africans started with all intent and purpose, putting the Falcons on the back foot from the start of the game. They served watchers a tip of the iceberg of what is to come when Nigeria conceded two corner kicks in three minutes and rendered them second best all through the first half. Overall, South Africa won the game from almost all fronts - successfully playing out from the back many times, sharply exchanging passes, quick and confident link ups between the defence and midfield, fast recoveries to deny the Nigerians time and space, GK Andile Dlamini's assured commanding of her box, and of course the two quick goals executed with aplomb and clinicality.

The margin of difference in the average ages of the teams should quickly extinguish any argument that a youthful South African side versus a set of Nigerian old legs is the cause of how dominant the match was for the winners. The average age of South Africa's starting line up was 27.5 years compared to 29 for Nigeria. So, what went wrong? Tactical superiority? Bad selection by Randy Waldrum?



TACTICAL SUPERIORITY

Coach Ellis perfected South Africa's dominance through her stand-in captain, Jane Refiloe, who plays for AC Milan in Italy and WOTM Linda Motlhalo, who plays in Sweden for Djurgardens IF. Both ran the show in the middle as defensive and offensive midfielders respectively, and took advantage of their ineffective and incohesive opposites, Halimatu Ayinde and Rita Chikwelu.

Refiloe and Motlhalo's intricate and subtle passes, mostly short, consistently took Chikwelu and Ayinde out of their game and cut them napping most times. This was evident in South Africa's second goal.

Joining the mix to knock the wind off the 2018 champions' sail were Nixolo Cesane and Hildah Magaia. They were breezy and purposeful in movement. They constantly stretched the Nigerian back-line. Cesane was a class act. Nifty and nimble. Leicester's Ashleigh Plumptre, with all her best efforts in the game, was hard done by the 21-year-old's skills. Cesane and Magaia combined beautifully to provide Jermaine  Seoposenwe the assist for the first goal

BIG WIN

Seoposenwe's goal sent Ellis on her knees in celebration. The ex-Spurs Ladies (SA) coach said in the post-match press conference that “This is a very big win for us as a team. We needed to get this result because it sets the tone for the rest of the tournament. We had a meeting before we started training to talk about our goals and ambitions. We want to qualify for the World Cup and win the title here.” Such is the magnitude of South Africa’s second win over Nigeria in the past 10 months.

This was an intentional win for South Africa. Could it be the beginning of the dominance of the Super Falcons in African women's football? Have the South Africans become potential champions? Will this win generate far-reaching consequences on the game in Africa? Will it inspire more development of the women's game on the continent?

Interesting days ahead for African women's football. 

Super Betting Tips: The Pundit Gives Expert Tips for EPL MatchDay 23

Godwin D' Pundit, who usually calls EPL games with unusual accuracy, makes his debut on ColinUdoh.com with his analysis and predictions for the weekend's match day 23 games in the Premier League. 

With Liverpool going head-to-head against Manchester United this weekend, what should punters expect? Read on to find out...

Watford vs Tottenham

Watford have completely turned a corner under Nigel Pearson, picking up three wins from their last three and are unbeaten in their last five games. Tottenham will only be doing themselves more damage here if they underrate this rejuvenated Watford side.

I am going to settle for a draw here valued at 3.50 odds with BestBet360. I say so because I see Tottenham going all out for the win here after last weekend's disappointing defeat against Liverpool, while Watford will look to ride on the back of their impressive showings these days.

D'Punditz correct score prediction: Watford  2-2 Tottenham (12.13 odds with BestBet360)

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Arsenal vs Sheffield United

I watch Arsenal these days and I see a team that's heading in the right direction under Mikel Arteta. They just need to give the young manager time and enough backing in the window to completely turn things around.

Having said that, I think the Gunners will come up against a really good side in Sheffield United, and if they can get a win here, it will be a massive boost for the team going forward. 

I am just going to go safe here and tip Arsenal to win or draw at 1.19 odds with BestBet360. 

Not that I will be shocked if Sheffield United get something from this clash on Saturday evening.

D'Punditz correct score prediction: Arsenal 2-1 Sheffield United (7.60 odds with BestBet360)

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Manchester City vs Crystal Palace

When you look at this fixture, what automatically comes to the mind is that 3-2 victory by Crystal Palace the last time they visited the Etihad. But I can't see that repeating itself here. 

I think Manchester City will win this one comfortably at odds of 1.12 with BestBet360. In fact, I will count Crystal Palace to be fortunate to go into the half-time break level (in terms of score-line).

D'Punditz correct score prediction: Manchester City 3-0 Crystal Palace (6.30 odds with BestBet360)

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Norwich City vs Bournemouth

This is definitely a relegation dogfight as 19th on the log take on bottom-placed Norwich City.

This is definitely going to be an interesting watch as both teams will look to better their chances of staying up with a win here.

I am going to tip Norwich to win this at 2.21 odds with BestBet360, because I have watched them play recently and it's not as though they play badly most of the times; they just can't defend. Meanwhile, Bournemouth have really been poor anytime I watch them play.

D'Punditz correct score prediction: Norwich 2-1 Bournemouth (8.10 odds with BestBet360)

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Brighton vs Aston Villa

I am going to back Brighton to win this one at 1.65 odds with BestBet360.

I say so because I have watched these two sides play recently, and I just can't figure out how Brighton are going to drop points against a very poor Aston Villa side. 

D'Punditz correct score prediction: Brighton 2-1 Aston Villa (7.50 odds with BestBet360)

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West Ham vs Everton

These two sides only changed managers recently and appear to still be under the new manager bounce thing. I watched West Ham the other day at Sheffield United and I thought they deserved to come out of that one with something. They will try to make amends here.

However, Everton have won all but one of their league games under new man Carlo Ancelotti, and will want to prove that those victories aren't fluke.

I am just going to settle for a draw here at 3.40 odds with BestBet360, as I am really struggling to separate the two teams.

D'Punditz correct score prediction: West Ham 1-1 Everton (6.10 odds with BestBet360)

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Southampton vs Wolves

Southampton are in the form of their lives right now; having won all but one of their last five Premier League games. But I think Wolves will really trouble them here.

I am going to back BestBet360's offer of 3.30 odds for the two sides to share the spoils on Saturday.

D'Punditz correct score prediction: Southampton 1-1 Wolves (5.90 odds with BestBet360)

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Newcastle vs Chelsea

I really fancy a Chelsea win here valued at 1.54 odds with BestBet360.

Newcastle are starting to dwindle, and I really see Frank Lampard's men having too much for them on Saturday.

D'Punditz correct score prediction: Newcastle 1-2 Chelsea (7.40 odds with BestBet360)

Burnley vs Leicester City

Burnley come into this clash in their worst of form; having lost all of their previous four league games. That's why I see Leicester getting a point at least from this clash at 1.21 odds with BestBet360.

Leicester will still be hurting from their 2-1 defeat at home to Southampton last time out, and they will try to react here.

D'Punditz correct score prediction: Burnley 1-2 Leicester City (7.60 odds with BestBet360)

Liverpool vs Manchester United

Liverpool's 1-0 win over Tottenham last weekend saw them go a whole 38 Premier League games without a defeat. That's some record!

But they have only drawn once inside this scintillating run, which came against Manchester United earlier in the season. I don't think Manchester United have what it takes to beat Liverpool on Sunday, but I think they can hold their hosts to a draw - looking at how Solskjaer's men have fared against the so-called big teams.

Whenever Liverpool play at Anfield, I always tip them to win, and that won't change here, that's why my money is on Jurgen Klopp's men to come out on top at the end of regulation time, which is priced at 1.42 odds with BestBet360.

D'Punditz correct score prediction: Liverpool 2-1 Manchester United (7.40 odds with BestBet360)

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Here is my code to play this weekend: OUDV0X