Pundit's banks on Arsenal and other predictions

Once again, I called two score lines from this past weekend games correctly. The game involving Chelsea and Leicester City at Stamford Bridge and the game involving Arsenal and Fulham at the Emirates. How about that!

Now, I am back to give my predictions on the midweek games. So find out which team to put your money on to take all three points in this round of matches...

Fulham vs Brighton

This is going to be a very interesting match on Tuesday evening. Fulham tasted their first defeat against Arsenal in the weekend, while Brighton are still undefeated. I didn't think Brighton will be able to win against Leeds in the weekend and they won so I backing them to get something from this clash if they can keep on the momentum. Fulham showed against Arsenal that they can be a very dangerous side to play against and I think they too will try to get something from this clash. That's why I am going to go for an entertaining draw here.

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

Crystal Palace vs Brentford

Everyone thought Crystal Palace were going to shock Manchester City at the Etihad when they raced to a 2-0 lead in the game, only for City to comeback and win 4-2. I thought they missed the services of Wilfred Zaha in the game and could have harmed Manchester City more if the Ivorian international was on the field. I don't know the severity of his injury, but if he misses this game also I think Brentford will fancy their chances. I am going to bank on this game to end in a draw as I really can't find a winner.

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

Southampton vs Chelsea

If Chelsea can win against Leicester with ten men, I think they should be able to win here convincingly on Tuesday evening. Southampton weren't really bad against Manchester United in the weekend but they still lost the game. They lack a winning mentality and I see them losing this one too.

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

Leeds United vs Everton

I really fancied Leeds United to get something out of their weekend clash against Brighton and they lost the game 1-0. I think they will be looking to bounce back here and against a very poor Everton side. I really can't see why they can't come out of the game with all three points. That means the pressure will start to mount on Frank Lampard with another underwhelming performance here.

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

Manchester City vs Nottingham Forest

I feel sorry for Nottingham Forest because they lost at home at the weekend to Tottenham and they are going to lose this one also at the Etihad. I expected Nottingham Forest to at least get a point against Spurs but they disappointed. I don't think this is going to be an easy ride for Manchester City, but they will get the win.

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

Arsenal vs Aston Villa

I see a comprehensive Arsenal win here. Aston Villa have been very poor so far this season. And it's only a matter of time before Aston Villa fans will begin to call for the head of head coach Steven Gerrard. 

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Arsenal 2-0 Aston Villa

Bournemouth vs Wolves

After suffering a heavy hammering at the hands of Liverpool last weekend, Bournemouth will be looking to react in front of their home fans here. Meanwhile, Wolves will be looking to compound the home team's woes. I think this will end in a draw but if this game eventually produces a winner, then it will be Wolves.

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

West Ham vs Tottenham

This should be a very interesting match as it's also a derby. West Ham finally got their first win of the season in the weekend against Aston Villa and they will surely be looking to build on that result. I can guarantee that Tottenham won't lose this game as they will look to continue their unbeaten streak here but I can't guarantee that they will win here so I am going to bank on this game to end in a draw.

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

Liverpool vs Newcastle

After hammering Bournemouth 9-0 at the weekend, Liverpool will be looking to consolidate on that result and get another win here in front of their home fans. Newcastle have shown so far that they are a very dangerous side to play against so I think they will make things difficult for Liverpool here. But I expect Liverpool to grind out a win here.

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

Leicester City vs Manchester United

Having won their last two games, Manchester United will be looking to extend the run here. I thought Leicester were embarrassing in the weekend. Chelsea lost a man to a red card very early in the game when it was still nil-nil yet Leicester couldn't capitalize. I think if Manchester United turn up here they will win. Leicester are a very poor side this season, without a single win so far. I think Manchester United will win this. I just can't see Leicester stopping Erik Ten Hag's resurgent men

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Leicester 0-1 Manchester United

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

Warriors Steve Kerr, Jazz's Azubuike among NBA stars coming to coach in Africa for BWB

 

 

Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr is heading to Egypt this month for Basketball Without Borders camp

Nigeria's Udoka Azubuike will join Golden State Warriors NBA title winning coach Steve Kerr and other NBA players, coaches and executives to coach 64 of the top boys and girls from 26 African countries at the 18th Basketball Without Borders camp in Cairo Egypt this month.

NBA Africa, the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) and the Egyptian Basketball Federation announced on Thursday that the camp, holding at Hassan Mostafa Indoor Sports Complex in Cairo, Egypt, will mark the first time the NBA and FIBA’s global basketball development and community outreach program will be held in Egypt and the first time on the continent since 2019 in Senegal.

BWB Africa 2022 will bring together more than 60 of the top male and female players ages 18 and under from across Africa, including 14 NBA Academy Africa prospects and six NBA Academy Africa Women’s Program participants, to learn directly from current and former NBA and FIBA players, legends and coaches and compete alongside the best young players on the continent.  The campers and coaches will also take part in life skills, leadership development and community service programming.

Of those 64 players, Segun Obe and Emmanuel Tobi Stephen, will represent Nigeria.  

Nigeria's Udoka Azubuike of the Utah Jazz will coach at the BWB camp in Egypt

Apart from Nigeria's Udoka, the campers will be coached by NBA players Mo Bamba (Orlando Magic; U.S.; ties to Ivory Coast), 2017 NBA Rookie of the Year Malcolm Brogdon (U.S.; Boston Celtics) and Grant Williams (U.S.; Celtics), as well as NBA Global Ambassador and Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo (Democratic Republic of the Congo).

Joining the NBA players and legends will be Kerr, the nine-time NBA champion and Golden State Warriors head coach, 2004 NBA champion and Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups, two-time NBA champion and New Orleans Pelicans head coach Willie Green, Washington Wizards head coach Wes Unseld Jr. and Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch, tying for the most NBA head coaches to participate in a single BWB camp.  Milwaukee Bucks associate head coach Charles Lee and Charlotte Hornets associate head athletic trainer Quinton Sawyer will also coach at the camp.

Toronto Raptors President Masai Ujiri completes the Nigeria connection. He will be joined by Cleveland Cavaliers General Manager Mike Gansey, Los Angeles Clippers scout Lance Blanks, and World Association of Basketball Coaches President and FIBA Technical Commission Chair Patrick Hunt (Australia) who will all serve as camp directors.

 Players and coaches will lead campers through a variety of activities, including movement efficiency drills, offensive and defensive skill stations, three-point contests, 5-on-5 games, and life skills and leadership development sessions.  Players and coaches will also host a unified Jr. NBA clinic for 100 boys and girls at Hassan Mostafa Indoor Sports Complex on Monday, Aug. 29, in collaboration with Special Olympics.

 A ceremony on the final day of the camp will award the BWB Africa 2022 MVP, Defensive MVP, Three-Point Champion and Patrick Baumann Sportsmanship Award to the boys and girls who distinguish themselves on the court and as leaders.

 A record 41 former BWB campers were among the record 121 international players on 2021-22 NBA opening-night rosters, including Gorgui Dieng (San Antonio Spurs; Senegal; BWB Africa 2009), five-time NBA All-Star Joel Embiid (Philadelphia 76ers; Cameroon; BWB Africa 2011) and NBA champion Pascal Siakam (Toronto Raptors; Cameroon; BWB Africa 2012).

The NBA and FIBA have hosted 65 BWB camps in 30 countries since the program’s launch in 2001.  BWB has reached more than 3,800 participants from 134 countries and territories, with 105 former campers having advanced to the NBA or WNBA.

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.

Super Falcons Player Ratings after 1-0 win over Cameroon

 

Nigeria qualified for the semifinals and also secured a spot at next year's FIFA Women’s World Cup finals and here's how Rotimi Akindele rated the players in the quarter final win over rivals Cameroon.

Chiamaka Nnadozie, 7

Cool, calm and collected as always. Helped in making the defense pay attention to little details, was never really troubled and was solid enough to register her third straight clean sheet in the competition

Toni Payne, 6

Played as a make-shift right back before she switched to the left towards the latter stages of the game. Was pretty decent in the position especially with her pace and solid clearances. One of the versatiles in the team

Osinachi Ohale, 6

Had another decent game in the center half and would be proud to have helped register another clean sheet

Onome Ebi

Definitely marching on with her experience. Made some vital touches and intercepted a lot aerially. She won't be so bothered about getting into the referee's book

Asleigh Plumptre, 6

Played in a position where she is still trying to adapt but had put in a good shift before she was replaced in the second half

Halimat Ayinde, 7

Steady midfield performance. Easily breaks opponents play and has an eye to launch good passes towards the attack. One of Nigeria's best performers on the night

Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene, 8

Proving to be a midfield maestro. She was solid all through as she helped the attack and the defense during the entire game. Made the strong brilliant move that led to the only goal of the game. It was an MVP performance but she didn't get the award post game and we all knew why…

Rasheedat Ajibade, 8

Got Nigeria's only goal of the night. Proving to be an asset to the team since day 1 especially since Oshoala's injury. Was well positioned for the winning goal and read the ball nicely. Helped with defense as well whenever she's not driving the attack. She was voted the Woman of the Match post game

Ifeoma Onumonu, 6

Still struggling to lead the pack but her all round presence is commendable. She delivered the pin-point cross that found Ajibade for the only goal. She's got to find the back of the net often to boost her confidence

Christy Ucheibe, 6

Average performance in the midfield, good enough to help the team grind out the win

Francisca Ordega, 5

After some early incursions in the first half, she was lost for the better part of the game especially as she struggled to really hold down her own from the wings

Subs

Michelle Alozie, 6

Came in to help the defense and did well for over 25 minutes. A good asset

Uchenna Kanu, 4

Did little after being brought on

Rita Chikwelu, 5

Brought in the needed experience to calm some nerves late on

Regina Otu, 4

Did little or nothing within the short time

Gift Monday, 4

Still struggling to get enough playing time