Jane Njoku, Author at Matchplug Blog

MLS Prediction: FC Dallas vs New York City FC

FC Dallas are back at Toyota Stadium this Saturday, looking to build momentum against New York City FC after a dominant 3-0 win over St. Louis City. Read our preview for the FC Dallas vs New York City FC match.
FC Dallas won 3-0; Quill’s team finally managed to win, ending a streak of six consecutive games without a win. If they beat New York City on Saturday, it would be only the second time for Dallas FC in MLS 2025 that they have secured two consecutive victories.

Let’s take a look at the match preview and betting prediction.

Betting Preview for FC Dallas vs New York City FC

Venue: Toyota Stadium
Date: Saturday, 27th July 2025
Time: 02:30
Teams to play: FC Dallas vs New York City FC
Odds are provided by 1XBet

Betting on FC Dallas

1XBet Spread: 0
1XBet Moneyline: 2.483
1XBet Over/Under: Over 2.5

FC Dallas ended a six-game winless run in style with a 3-0 win over St. Louis. Their last back-to-back wins came in March, and they now have a chance to repeat that. The standout in the last match was Kaick, the young Brazilian defender who put in a commanding display.

Petar Musa has also been red-hot in front of goal. He scored twice late on in their last match and did the same in a 2-2 draw vs San Jose. If he keeps this form, FC Dallas could be on track for another high-scoring game.

Betting on New York City FC

1XBet Spread: 0
1XBet Moneyline: 2.777
1XBet Over/Under: Under 2.5

NYCFC drew 1-1 with Sporting Kansas City in their last outing. They’ve not faced FC Dallas since their 3-1 win in 2023, and they’ll be hoping to repeat that success. But their recent form has been mixed, and they will need a solid defensive effort to contain Musa and Dallas’ attack.

One pattern worth noting: in seven of the last eight meetings between these two, both teams scored.

MatchPlug Prediction for FC Dallas vs New York City FC

This fixture usually delivers goals from both sides. With Petar Musa in top form and Dallas finally clicking, another high-scoring match is likely. Expect both teams to find the net again.

Final Prediction: Both Teams to Score

mls prediction today columbus crew vs orlando city sc

MLS Match Prediction: Columbus Crew vs Orlando City SC

The MLS action continues this week as Columbus Crew host Orlando City SC at MAPFRE Stadium in what promises to be a key fixture in the race for playoff spots in the Eastern Conference. Read on for our full Columbus Crew vs Orlando City prediction and betting preview.

Matchplug brings you the best MLS predictions.

Betting Preview for Columbus Crew vs Orlando City SC

Venue: MAPFRE Stadium
Date: Friday 25th of July, 2025
Time: 01:30
Teams to play: Columbus Crew vs Orlando City SC
Odds as provided by 1XBet

Betting on Columbus Crew

1XBet Spread: -1.5
1XBet Moneyline: 1.74
1XBet Over/Under: Over 2.5

The Crew have been dominant at home this season, winning 9 of their last 14 matches at MAPFRE Stadium. They head into this match off the back of a solid win against D.C. United and are looking to push further up the Eastern Conference standings. Columbus also boast a strong recent record against Orlando, including a thrilling 4-3 home win in September 2024.

Their form, attacking strength, and home advantage make them strong favorites for this clash.

Betting on Orlando City SC

1XBet Spread: +1.5
1XBet Moneyline: 4.25
1XBet Over/Under: Under 2.5

Orlando are no pushovers, especially on the road. They’ve won four of their last six away games in all competitions and are currently 6th in the Eastern Conference. A win or even a draw here could boost their playoff chances significantly. Their recent form includes a strong showing against New England, but they’ll need to be at their best to break down a Columbus side that’s clicking.

MatchPlug Prediction for Columbus Crew vs Orlando City SC

While Orlando have been impressive away from home, Columbus’s strength at MAPFRE Stadium and their recent head-to-head dominance give them a slight edge. Expect a close match with goals at both ends.

Final Prediction:

soccer predictions today: houston vs los angeles

MLS Match Prediction: Houston Dynamo vs LA Galaxy

Two struggling sides meet at Shell Energy Stadium on Friday night as Houston Dynamo host LA Galaxy in a match that could shape the direction of their MLS playoff push. Read our preview for the Houston Dynamo vs LA Galaxy match.

Betting Preview for Houston Dynamo vs LA Galaxy

Venue: Shell Energy Stadium
Date: Friday, July 26, 2025
Time: 8:30 PM ET
Matchup: Dynamo vs LA Galaxy
Odds are provided by 1XBet

Betting on Houston Dynamo

1XBet Spread: 0
1XBet Moneyline: 2.119
1XBet Over/Under: Over 2.5

Ben Olsen’s team has hit a tough patch and currently sits just outside the top nine. With two losses and a draw in their last three, the Dynamo need to tighten up defensively to avoid losing ground in the postseason race. The good news is that they’re only two points behind a playoff spot, but confidence is low at the moment.

Betting on LA Galaxy

1XBet Spread: 0
1XBet Moneyline: 3.28
1XBet Over/Under: Under 2.5

Despite being defending MLS Cup champions, LA Galaxy haven’t found their rhythm in 2025. However, things are beginning to improve under Greg Vanney. They’ve lost only one of their last five, and their Brazilian star Gabriel Pec returned to form with a brace in his last outing. He’s been among the most active shooters in the league and looks set to play a big role again.

MatchPlug Prediction for Houston Dynamo vs LA Galaxy

With both sides under pressure and struggling to keep clean sheets, we expect an open, attacking affair. But with Gabriel Pec red-hot and Houston’s defense leaking goals, the edge slightly tilts to the visitors.

Final Prediction:

portland timbers vs los angeles fc sure tips

MLS Prediction: Los Angeles FC vs Portland Timbers

The race for the MLS playoffs intensifies as Los Angeles FC welcome Portland Timbers to BMO Stadium in a key Western Conference clash on Saturday, July 26, 2025.

With only two points separating the sides in the standings, this matchup could have a substantial impact on their playoff hopes as the regular season nears its climax.

Read on for our betting preview and expert match prediction.

Betting Preview for Los Angeles FC vs Portland Timbers

Venue: BMO Stadium
Date: Saturday, 26th July 2025
Time: 03:30
Teams to play: Los Angeles FC vs Portland Timbers
Odds by Provided by 1XBet

Betting on Los Angeles FC

1XBet Spread: -1.5
1XBet Moneyline: 1.519
1XBet Over/Under: Over 3.5

LAFC are 5th in the West and have been impressive at home, winning 8 of their last 12 games at BMO Stadium. Despite being without midfield talent Odin Holm and defenders Lorenzo Dellavalle and Aaron Long, they remain strong contenders with enough squad depth to cover those losses.

Their home form, crowd support, and attacking setup give them the edge in what is expected to be a tight match.

Betting on Portland Timbers

1XBet Spread: +1.5
1XBet Moneyline: 5.77
1XBet Over/Under: Under 3.5

Portland are one spot below LAFC in 6th, but recent form has not been on their side. They are winless in three straight league matches and struggling for goals. Injuries to key players like defender Zac McGraw and attackers Antony and Jonathan Rodriguez limit their options on both ends of the pitch.

On the road and under pressure, the Timbers will need to dig deep to avoid defeat.

MatchPlug Prediction: Los Angeles FC vs Portland Timbers

This is a key playoff battle, but LAFC’s home dominance and Portland’s injury-hit squad could be the deciding factor. LAFC should take advantage of the Timbers’ recent struggles and claim a narrow win.

Final Prediction: Los Angeles FC Moneyline

Paul Gascoigne released from hospital following health scare

Former Tottenham and England midfielder Paul Gascoigne has returned home to recover.

The 58-year-old, former Tottenham player was admitted to intensive care on Friday after a health scare. His friend, Steve Foster found him semi-conscious in his apartment and took him to the A&E.

His management company released a statement on Monday saying, “Paul voluntarily went into A&E (Accident and Emergency) on Friday after struggling with a throat condition (not by ambulance) he has had for a while,” “He is already back home and doing well.”

Gascoigne was treated by intensive care staff and later moved to an acute medical unit until he was stable enough to be released.

Paul Gascoigne who has played for Newcastle, Tottenham, Lazio, Rangers, Middlesbrough and Everton has been open about his struggles with alcohol addiction and depression.

In a bid to take control of his life in 2020, Gascoigne admitted to having anti-alcohol pellets sewn into his stomach.

But last year, he confessed on the High Performance podcast that he was a “sad drunk” living in a spare room at the home of his agent.

Ndoye on standby with Forest and Napoli targeting Bologna winger

The €30 million (£26m) from Nottingham Forest for winger Dan Ndoye has been rejected by Bologna. Sky Sport Italia reported that while the 24 year old’s opening offer was rejected, Napoli is still very interested in the Switzerland international.

Meanwhile, Nottingham Forest also remain interested and are expected to make another move for the Swiss international. They are actively searching for a replacement for Anthony Elanga, who joined Newcastle United for £55 million earlier this summer.

Ndoye was a key figure in Bologna’s impressive 2023/24 campaign, where they won the Coppa Italia.

Barcelona look to recapture past form of Marcus Rashford

Barcelona have shifted their focus to Marcus Rashford after failing to sign Athletic Club winger Nico Williams. The Manchester United forward has fallen out of favour at Old Trafford, first under Erik ten Hag and now with new manager Ruben Amorim, who has made it clear that Rashford no longer fits into his plans.

Rashford, 27, had hinted at wanting to play for Barcelona, and the two clubs have now reportedly agreed on a one-year loan deal with an option to buy. The move could offer him the fresh start he needs, especially with the World Cup coming up next year.

After scoring 30 goals in the 2022/23 season, including 17 in the Premier League, his form dipped significantly last season with only eight goals across all competitions. More than just his numbers, Rashford’s body language and confidence were major concerns.

Now, with a big opportunity in Barcelona and the motivation of a World Cup spot, Rashford will be aiming to prove himself once again.

Leeds recruitment shows promise in bid to stay in Premier League

Leeds United are back in the Premier League after a dominant Championship-win, and they’re determined not to go straight back down. Manager Daniel Farke, who secured his third Championship title (his first two were with Norwich), has a point to prove.

This time, Leeds are taking no chances. Their summer recruitment shows clear intent to stay up. They’ve added Premier League experience with midfielder Sean Longstaff and brought in free-agent forward Lukas Nmecha to boost creativity. But it’s their defensive signings that stand out — Anton Stach Sebastian Bornauw and Jaka Bijol who are all over 6’3″, bring serious aerial presence.

Leeds were already a set-piece threat, scoring 11 goals from corners last season. By adding more height and strength, they aim to keep that edge. Stats show it matters: last season’s relegated teams were among the worst at scoring from set pieces, while Everton’s 14 such goals helped keep them safe.

With a smart transfer strategy focused on physicality and proven league experience, Leeds are building a team designed for survival.

Liverpool enter into ‘advanced talks’ for Frankfurt’s Ekitike

Liverpool have reportedly entered advanced negotiations with Eintracht Frankfurt. The discussion is over a move for French striker Hugo Ekitike, as the Reds continue to strengthen under new boss Arne Slot.

With Newcastle United standing firm on their decision not to sell Alexander Isak despite Liverpool’s interest, the Merseyside giants have quickly shifted focus to Ekitike. According to David Ornstein, the 23-year-old is keen on a move to Anfield and Liverpool. They are prepared to meet Frankfurt’s asking price to seal the deal.

Ekitike is coming off a standout campaign in Germany, having scored 22 goals in 48 appearances across all competitions and helping Frankfurt secure a Champions League spot. His explosive pace, intelligent movement, and eye for goal have made him one of the most highly rated young forwards in European football.

Slot has already added Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, and Milos Kerkez to his squad this summer, and Ekitike could be the marquee signing to spearhead Liverpool’s attack as they aim to mount a serious title challenge next season.

With talks progressing quickly, the Frenchman’s potential arrival would mark another significant step in the club’s post-Klopp rebuild.

The Brothers Who Took the Game Personally: The Tale of the Touré Duo with Ivory Coast

There are siblings who grow up kicking a ball between parked cars. And then there are siblings who grow up reshaping the identity of a national team. Yaya and Kolo Touré didn’t just play football. They built a spine. For over a decade, they were the heartbeat of Ivory Coast — one the last wall of defense, the other the pulse of the midfield. Different tools, same blood, shared mission.

Kolo was the older one. Quietly relentless. His rise from ASEC Mimosas to Arsenal wasn’t about flash but presence. He was the guy you trusted to handle the storm. He’d put out fires and never make a scene doing it. You don’t win league titles, go unbeaten for 38 matches, or face the world’s best strikers week after week without a deep sense of timing and toughness. That same steadiness is what he brought to Ivory Coast, a defense that didn’t blink first.

And then there was Yaya.

Yaya Touré didn’t walk onto the pitch. He arrived like a force. Tall, composed, powerful in motion. When he drove forward from deep, carrying the ball with purpose, there was a feeling something big was about to happen. And usually, it did. He could dominate games, not just with touches, but with tempo. When he played for the Elephants, he didn’t just create. He controlled. He gave the whole team shape, confidence, rhythm.

Their chemistry wasn’t just brotherly. It was tactical. Kolo held the line. Yaya advanced it. Between them, they built a foundation on which Didier Drogba and the others could fly. For sports betting on Betway fans tracking Ivory Coast across major tournaments, this wasn’t a minor detail. Having both Tourés on the team sheet often tipped the odds, especially in close matches. They were the kind of players who shifted betting lines without grabbing headlines, just the real edge, if you were paying attention.

The peak came in 2015. Ivory Coast had tried and failed to win the Africa Cup of Nations for years. Near misses in 2006. Heartbreak in 2012. But this time, they had experience, youth, and hunger. Kolo, nearing the end of his career, was calm and commanding. Yaya, as captain, led with everything he had left. The final against Ghana went the full distance including penalties, nerves, silence between whistles. It was tense on the pitch, but off it too, as the match swung live betting odds with every kick. If you backed the Elephants that night, you earned it.

When they won, it wasn’t just a football story. It was a victory for a generation. Two brothers, two arcs converging, finally lifting a trophy they’d chased together. You could see it on their faces, it was not just relief, but pride. Ivory Coast wasn’t just a collection of talent anymore. It was a team. A winning team.

Many brothers have played international football together. The De Boers. The Ayews. The Nevilles. But the Tourés? They were more than a feel-good narrative. They were tactical anchors. Emotional leaders. Bets you could count on, not just at the sportsbook, but on the pitch, when the moment needed clarity.

Kolo turned to coaching. Yaya turned to youth development. But their shadow still looms in the Ivorian camp. Mention their names, and people remember that era not just because of what they won, but because of how they played.

Jane Njoku