I’m really looking forward to these matches, and I can see Manchester City getting off to a good start in the Premier League. Have a look at my predictions here.
Newcastle v Tottenham – Saturday 11 August – Premier League – BET HERE
Newcastle’s form dropped off last season after they has assured survival, although they still managed wins against Arsenal and Chelsea in April and May. Tottenham have a lot of key players returning from the World Cup but have still won two of their four pre-season friendlies. The visitors won at St. James’ Park on the opening weekend last season, and I’m backing another Away Win.
Match Tip: Tottenham Win
Mr. Predictor’s Verdict: Newcastle 0 v 1 Tottenham
Liverpool v West Ham – Sunday 12 August – Premier League – BET HERE
There’s plenty of pressure on Liverpool to win some silverware after their transfer business, but I don’t think it will get to them here. They’ve already beaten Napoli, Man United and Man City in pre-season and won eight of their final ten home games last season. Manuel Pellegrini has made some good signings for West Ham, but I still think they’ll lose.
Match Tip: Over 2.5 Goals
Mr. Predictor’s Verdict: Liverpool 3 v 1 West Ham
Arsenal v Man City – Sunday 12 August – Premier League – BET HERE
It’s the start of a new era at Arsenal after Arsene Wenger’s departure in May. Unai Emery has overseen three wins and two draws in pre-season but, although the Gunners won 15 of their 19 home games last season, they only defeated a team above them in the table once. City won 32 of their 38 league games, including a 3-0 win at the Emirates, and you sense that their victory over Chelsea in the Community Shield was a warning. I’m backing the champions.
Match Tip: Man City Win
Mr. Predictor’s Verdict: Arsenal 1 v 3 Man City
Eintracht Frankfurt v Bayern Munich – Sunday 12 August – Super Cup – BET HERE
Eintracht Frankfurt won the DFB Pokal last season for first time in 30 years when they defeated Bayern 3-1 in the final. However, they have lost three of their five friendlies since manager Niko Kovac left to join the Bundesliga champions. Despite that cup final loss, Bayern have won seven of their last ten games against Frankfurt, and I think Kovac can mastermind a win over his old club.
Match Tip: Bayern Win
Mr. Predictor’s Verdict: Eintracht Frankfurt 0 v 2 Bayern Munich
Barcelona v Sevilla – Sunday 12 August – Super Cup – BET HERE
I don’t know whether Sevilla want to play this game! They lost 5-0 to Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final in April, so only qualify for the Super Cup as runners up. That said, they’ve played some Europa League qualifiers already, while Barca haven’t won any of their recent friendlies. However, once Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Philippe Coutinho are back, I expect them to be much better.
Match Tip: Over 2.5 Goals
Mr. Predictor’s Verdict: Barcelona 2 v 1 Sevilla