Inter Milan secured a much-needed 2-1 victory over Sassuolo at San Siro thanks to Dimarco. He stopped a two-match Serie A skid and avoiding a third straight league defeat for the first time since April 2023.
Cristian Chivu, under pressure after back-to-back losses, may have feared the visit of Sassuolo, who famously did the double over Inter two seasons ago. Relief came early when Federico Dimarco finished off a slick team move in the 14th minute, side-footing past Arijanet Muric after neat link-up play involving Nicolo Barella and Petar Sucic.
The Nerazzurri looked sharper going forward, with Hakan Calhanoglu flashing a strike over the bar and Marcus Thuram narrowly missing from Denzel Dumfries’ through ball. Still, Sassuolo carried a threat on the break, with Armand Laurienté and Domenico Berardi posing problems for the Inter defense.
Bayern Munich maintained their flawless beginning to the Bundesliga season as Harry Kane struck his 10th hat-trick for the club in a dominant 4-1 win over TSG Hoffenheim.
Hoffenheim, who had made their best three-game start since 2017/18, looked confident early on. Fisnik Asllani came agonizingly close to punishing Manuel Neuer’s mistake, hitting the post from close range, while Bernardo missed another golden chance with a header just wide.
Bayern, unbeaten in their last 10 Bundesliga away fixtures (W7, D3), weathered the storm and grew into the game before halftime. Lennart Karl and Nicolas Jackson forced Oliver Baumann into saves, but the breakthrough came through Kane, who buried a slick first-time finish from Karl’s low corner to put the visitors ahead.
From there, Bayern’s momentum never slowed, with Kane taking full control to deliver yet another hat-trick performance that secured all three points and kept the defending champions top of the table.
Borussia Dortmund’s bright start to the season is already being clouded by old problems. There are lapses in key moments exposing a lack of leadership just three games into the Bundesliga campaign.
The Black and Yellows, who host Wolfsburg on Sunday, have already shown a worrying tendency to collapse late in matches. In their season opener at St Pauli, Dortmund let a 3-1 lead slip in the final minutes. They conceded twice in quick succession before rookie defender Filippo Mane was sent off.
Tuesday’s Champions League clash at Juventus provided a painful repeat. Dortmund led three times, only to concede twice in the dying moments and settle for a 4-4 draw.
Tensions within the squad are also surfacing. During a recent Bundesliga match, striker Serhou Guirassy and defender Ramy Bensebaini argued over who should take a late penalty. This forced head coach Niko Kovac to step in.
The recurring criticism remains the same: Dortmund are once again undermined by a lack of maturity and leadership on the pitch.
Christian Pulisic played a decisive role in all three goals as AC Milan eased to a 3-0 win at Udinese. This secured their third straight victory without conceding.
Both sides began brightly, with goalkeepers tested inside the opening minutes. Pietro Terracciano denied Iker Bravo from distance, while Razvan Sava kept out Pulisic from a tight angle. The Udinese keeper then produced a sharp save to block Santiago Gimenez from close range. However, they could do nothing when Milan broke through five minutes before the interval.
Pervis Estupiñán’s cross was deflected into Sava’s path, only for the rebound to fall to Pulisic, who converted to score in consecutive away fixtures.
Moments after the restart, Milan doubled their advantage when Pulisic’s pressing forced a turnover that Youssouf Fofana finished at the near post. The American international then capped his standout performance by adding a third himself, again beating Sava at the near stick.
Six of Pulisic’s last eight Serie A goals have now come away from San Siro, with his brace of contributions propelling Milan up to third in the table.
Football is more than just a sport — it’s a global passion that unites fans across nations. In South Africa, this passion runs deep, and it has found a unique expression not only in stadiums and sports bars, but also in the world of online gaming and casino entertainment.
Thanks to its fast-paced action, universal appeal, and emotional highs, football has become a dominant theme within the casino industry, particularly among players who are already deeply invested in the game. As online casinos grow across South Africa, football-inspired slots, virtual betting games, and themed tournaments are capturing the attention of sports fans looking to combine their love for the game with the thrill of winning.
A Natural Fit: Sports Enthusiasm and Online Casinos
South African players are known for their enthusiasm for sports betting, especially on football — from the English Premier League to local PSL matches. This natural excitement around the sport makes football-themed casino games a compelling choice.
Many popular slot games now feature football stars, team colors, match-day settings, and even animated penalty shootouts. These games offer a dynamic blend of entertainment and nostalgia, allowing fans to stay close to the sport they love — even during the off-season.
Why Football-Based Casino Games Work So Well
South Africa’s mobile-first gaming culture and improving internet access make it easy for players to enjoy football-themed casino games from anywhere — whether on a smartphone, tablet, or laptop. Unlike live streaming or traditional video games, casino slots and virtual sports betting use less data and require minimal bandwidth, making them perfectly suited to local network conditions.
Moreover, many platforms, including popular sites like 1xBet, offer localized content and mobile-optimized experiences, allowing users to place football bets or spin themed slots on the go — safely and securely.
A Cultural Connection
In South Africa, football isn’t just a pastime — it’s part of the cultural fabric. From township tournaments to national team matches, the game is woven into everyday life. Casino operators have tapped into this emotional connection by offering games that celebrate iconic players, clubs, and tournaments, giving fans a new way to engage with football beyond the field.
The Thrill of Turning Passion Into Predictions
For players across Africa, online casinos offer an exciting way to unwind and have fun — but the golden rule remains the same: enjoy the process. Gambling should be seen as entertainment, not as a shortcut to wealth. The moment it stops being fun, it’s time to pause and reflect.
Online slots and casino games come with real financial risks. It’s important to play with a clear mind and realistic expectations. Chasing quick money can easily lead to disappointment or even more serious consequences. If you ever feel that your gaming habits are becoming hard to control, don’t hesitate to seek help. Support is available, and reaching out is a sign of strength.
Know the Risks, Set the Limits
Every player should understand that betting real money on slots or casino games always involves a degree of chance. Losing is part of the experience, and that’s why setting clear limits before you start playing is essential.
If you find yourself losing more than you planned, don’t try to recover your losses by increasing your bets. This emotional response often leads to greater losses and unnecessary stress. The best approach is to:
Set a budget and stick to it
Limit your playtime
Avoid chasing losses
Walk away when it’s no longer fun
Without these boundaries, even the most enjoyable game can turn into a financial burden.
Discipline is Key to Sustainable Play
True enjoyment comes from staying in control. Responsible gaming means playing smart, knowing when to stop, and remembering that it’s all about entertainment — not pressure, not profit.
Players who treat online gaming as a hobby, rather than a source of income, are more likely to have long-term positive experiences. Whether you’re spinning the reels for fun or trying your luck on your favorite sports team, the key is to stay balanced and self-aware.
The Digital Shift — From Bookmakers to Smartphones
How Smartphones Became the New Betting Shops
The emergence of online casinos has revolutionized the world of gambling, removing the need to visit a physical venue and instead placing a vast array of games directly into the hands of players — no matter where they are. With this shift, it’s no surprise that mobile casino apps have exploded in popularity, driven by the widespread adoption of smartphones and tablets for everyday tasks.
In today’s fast-paced digital world, mobile gaming has become deeply embedded in modern culture, carving out a permanent and influential space within the global gambling industry. Top-tier platforms now compete to offer immersive, high-performance mobile experiences, giving users the opportunity to achieve big wins from the palm of their hand.
Mobile Technology: Redefining the Casino Experience
Thanks to breakthroughs in mobile tech, platforms like 888Starz and others are setting new standards for mobile casinos. These apps offer seamless navigation, visually rich interfaces, and lightning-fast performance — all designed to deliver the full thrill of the casino floor on your iOS or Android device.
Whether you’re spinning reels on your lunch break or placing a sports bet from home, mobile gaming has unlocked a level of convenience never seen before. With just a few taps, players gain instant access to poker tables, live dealer games, slots, and more — no desktops or laptops required.
Exclusive Perks for Mobile Players
One of the most compelling reasons players are shifting from traditional computers to mobile devices is the range of exclusive incentives offered to mobile users. Many platforms reward smartphone players with:
Special welcome bonuses
Free spins
Reduced wagering requirements
Early access to promotions and tournaments
This mobile-first approach not only enhances player engagement but also encourages long-term loyalty, especially among those who prefer gaming on the go.
Apps Like 888Starz Bet South Africa Making It Simple
The 888Starz mobile application is rapidly becoming one of the go-to platforms for players across Africa seeking a smooth, secure, and feature-rich online betting experience. Whether you’re into sports betting, online slots, or live dealer games, this app offers everything you need — right at your fingertips.
Fully Licensed & Trustworthy
When it comes to real-money gaming, safety is non-negotiable. 888Starz operates under an international license, ensuring all games and financial transactions are regulated, transparent, and fair. Players from Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, South Africa, and other parts of the continent can confidently enjoy games knowing the platform prioritizes data protection and responsible gambling practices.
User-Friendly Mobile Interface
One of the standout features of the 888Starz app is its clean and intuitive design, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced bettors. Whether you’re browsing markets or spinning the reels, the app is optimized for Android and iOS devices, ensuring smooth performance and easy navigation even on low-to-mid range smartphones — a key advantage in many regions across Africa.
Multiple Local & Global Payment Options
888starz bet understands that flexibility in banking is key, especially in regions with diverse financial ecosystems. The app supports a wide range of payment methods, including:
Mobile money services (like M-PESA, OPay, Airtel Money)
Bank transfers and cards (Visa, MasterCard)
E-wallets (Neteller, Skrill)
Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, which are growing in popularity across the continent
This variety allows users to deposit and withdraw funds quickly and securely, no matter where they are.
Generous Rewards and Bonuses
From the moment you sign up, 888Starz ensures you’re rewarded. Players can access:
Welcome bonuses
Deposit match offers
Free spins
Cashback promotions
Loyalty rewards for frequent users
These promotions are tailored to mobile players, making it even more appealing to game on the go.
24/7 Customer Support
Need help with a deposit, withdrawal, or game issue? The 888Starz customer support team is available around the clock, offering real-time assistance via:
Live chat
Email support
In-app messaging
Support is often available in multiple languages, which is incredibly useful for players across different regions of Africa.
Payments Made Easy With Local Solutions
Safe Transactions That Build Player Confidence
In the fast-growing world of online betting and casino gaming, secure financial transactions are the cornerstone of player trust — especially in regions like Africa, where digital transformation is accelerating and mobile money is becoming the norm.
Players today are more informed and cautious than ever. They expect not only entertainment and big winnings, but also peace of mind when it comes to handling their money. This is why platforms like 888Starz have invested heavily in building systems that prioritize security, transparency, and speed.
Why Security Matters in Online Transactions
Whenever players deposit or withdraw funds, they’re sharing sensitive financial data. Without proper safeguards, this information could be vulnerable to:
Identity theft
Unauthorized access
Delayed or blocked transactions
Loss of funds
To combat these risks, reputable betting platforms use advanced encryption technologies, secure payment gateways, and strict verification protocols to ensure that every transaction is protected and fully traceable.
Responsible Gaming in a Growing Industry
Finding the Right Balance Between Fun and Control
For many players across Africa, gambling is a source of fun, thrill, and social engagement. Whether it’s betting on your favorite football team or spinning the reels at an online casino, the goal is entertainment — not stress. Thankfully, most players are able to enjoy gambling responsibly, setting limits and maintaining control.
However, studies worldwide — including in regions where casino play is growing — suggest that 5–10% of regular players may develop habits that could lead to gambling-related problems. That’s why it’s important to approach gaming with awareness, ensuring it remains a safe, enjoyable, and sustainable activity.
Guidelines for Safe and Responsible Gambling
Here are simple yet effective tips to help you keep your gaming under control — and enjoyable:
1. Set Your Limits — and Stick to Them
Before placing any bets, decide how much money you can afford to lose. Never gamble with funds meant for essentials like food, rent, school fees, or transport. Set daily, weekly, or monthly budgets — and don’t exceed them.
2. Don’t Chase Your Losses
If you lose, don’t try to “win it back” by betting more. This mindset often leads to even bigger losses and emotional frustration. Accept losses as part of the game — not a reason to keep playing beyond your limits.
3. Track Your Time
It’s easy to lose track of time while playing, especially online. Use a timer or alarm to remind yourself to take breaks. Gambling should never interfere with your family, work, or community responsibilities.
4. Have Other Hobbies and Interests
If gambling is your only source of fun, it might be time to explore other hobbies — like sports, reading, social outings, or learning new skills. A well-balanced lifestyle helps keep gaming in perspective.
5. Play With a Clear Mind
Avoid gambling when you’re tired, upset, drunk, or under stress. Emotions and poor judgment can easily lead to risky behavior and regrettable decisions. Always play when you’re calm, focused, and in control.
6. Take Breaks Regularly
Step away from your screen or betting shop now and then — even if you’re winning. Regular breaks help you maintain a healthy rhythm and prevent over-involvement.
7. Understand the Games You Play
Learn the rules, odds, and payout structures of the games you’re betting on. Informed players make smarter decisions — and often enjoy the experience more.
Responsible Gambling Is Smart Gambling
In Africa’s fast-growing digital gaming space, it’s important for players to understand that responsible gambling doesn’t kill the fun — it protects it. Knowing when to stop, how to control spending, and when to walk away is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Whether you’re betting via mobile apps, using mobile money, or exploring live casino games, your safety and well-being should always come first. Gambling should bring joy — not anxiety.
The Role of Rules and Regulations in Safer Play
As the popularity of online betting and casino gaming grows across Africa, the importance of clear rules and strong regulatory frameworks becomes increasingly crucial. These systems aren’t just bureaucratic requirements — they are the foundation for a safe, fair, and trustworthy gaming environment.
Whether you’re placing sports bets in Nigeria, spinning slots in South Africa, or enjoying live casino games in Kenya, rules and regulations are what protect players, operators, and the broader gambling industry from harm.
Why Regulations Matter
Without regulations, gambling platforms would operate in a legal gray area, leaving players vulnerable to:
Fraud and scams
Unfair games or rigged outcomes
Delayed or blocked withdrawals
Lack of recourse in case of disputes
Exposure to underage or problem gambling
By enforcing rules, governments and licensing bodies help create a level playing field, where all operators are held to the same standards of fairness, transparency, and accountability.
As online betting grows in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, and beyond, so does the demand for stronger oversight. While some countries already have national regulatory commissions, others are in the process of updating or modernizing outdated gambling laws.
The introduction of mobile money systems, cryptocurrency, and cross-border platforms has made digital regulation more complex — but also more important than ever. Forward-thinking regulators are beginning to integrate fintech guidelines, data privacy laws, and AML (anti-money laundering) policies into their frameworks.
It is hard to select the right online entertainment platform. Having hundreds of choices at your fingertips, it is easy to get lost and feel overwhelmed by the choices. Be it streaming movies, binge-watching shows, or gaming, there is something that will suit your interests. However, how do you choose the platform that provides the best experience? That is a matter of content, cost, and quality. This guide will help you understand what counts when choosing your favorite platform. Are you ready to discover the one that will suit you best?
Types of Online Entertainment Platforms
Internet entertainment is divided into several large groups. The most popular competitors are video streaming services such as Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime. These websites have vast collections of movies, documentaries, and series. Another big area is online gaming, which includes everything from platforms like the melbet app sites to massive titles on Steam. There are also gaming systems like Xbox Game Pass, PlayStation Plus, and PC-based games that offer a wide variety, including indie games and major franchise titles.
The actual distinction between these two platforms is user experience. Streaming services focus on content and the ease of access; gaming services focus on active, immersive experiences. Both such platforms are constantly being developed, and new functions are introduced to make you interested. The best one to select is going to depend on the type of entertainment you want.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Platform
The selection of an online platform should be strategic. Begin by determining the type of content you desire. When you are a fan of movies and television shows, then you should be looking at streaming services. The second step is to see how user-friendly the platform is and whether it suits your gadgets. Nobody is interested in a buggy interface or slow loading time. Lastly, price may be a deal breaker; most of the platforms have free trials or other subscription offers.
The main aspects to watch are as follows:
Content Library: Ensure that the platform has the content you want to watch or play.
User Experience: Check to see how easy it is to navigate and how it works with your devices.
Price: Consider the subscription costs and other expenses for add-ons or in-game purchases.
In selecting a platform, consider content and affordability. Make sure that the service is good and that it is a good value. A small amount of research will help you save time and frustration in the future.
Understanding Popular Platforms
What platform to select is not related to the most popular name. It is about knowing what each site has to offer. Some platforms provide movies and TV, while others are oriented to games or live streaming. So, let us take a closer look at two categories of platforms that always gather huge numbers of users: video streaming and gaming platforms. They both offer different kinds of experiences, yet they are hard to resist.
Video Streaming Services
Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ have taken over online entertainment with their video streaming services. All of them present a different mix of content that suits different tastes. Netflix is also famous because of its original content that has both drama and comedy. Disney+, in its turn, is focused on family-friendly films and shows, as well as the old-school Disney content, so families prefer it. Hulu tends to concentrate on the current television programs and documentaries that enable users to view the episodes shortly after they are telecast.
The reason why these platforms have become exceptional is due to their wide range of content libraries and user-friendly interfaces. Video streaming services provide fluid experiences with few distractions to binge-watchers. With the emergence of smart TVs and mobile applications, these platforms can be reached anywhere, and it is convenient to watch your favorite programs on any device. These are good platforms to choose if you prioritize content variety.
Gaming Platforms
Gaming platforms are designed to provide entertaining experiences that are interactive and immersive. These platforms offer access to a variety of games regardless of whether you are just a casual gamer or a hardcore one. Most of them also provide subscription-based services, whereby you would access hundreds of titles at a fixed price.
Some of the outstanding platforms are as follows:
Xbox Game Pass: provides a diverse catalog, with new titles and access to exclusive games.
PlayStation Plus: Offers priority to high-quality games and an active online multiplayer community.
Steam: It is famous due to the vast library and its adaptability, which enables users to purchase and download games straight to their computers.
Gaming sites cater to all types of players, with both the old school arcade games and the newest blockbusters. These platforms have good online communities and frequent updates in case you are into multiplayer games.
Pros and Cons of Subscription Services
Online entertainment by subscription services has become the most popular option; however, it also has its advantages and disadvantages. On the one hand, they are convenient, have a large content selection, and a predictable cost system. Nevertheless, they may also be oppressive, as subscription prices are increasing or add-on costs are being charged to access premium content. It is essential to know the advantages and disadvantages before getting into one. Here it is in a nutshell:
Pros
Cons
Access to large content libraries
High monthly or annual fees
No ads or interruptions
Limited access to specific titles
Multiple device compatibility
Price hikes over time
The advantages are apparent, but the cost may accumulate with time. Ensure that the platform provides you with what you desire and not a large amount of content that you will not utilize.
The Impact of User Reviews and Ratings
Ratings and reviews left by users are what can build or destroy a platform. Individuals use feedback to determine the actual worth of a service, rather than what the marketing literature suggests. A good user rating is usually indicative of good performance and user satisfaction. Bad reviews, however, can reveal issues, which may include bugs and customer service.
The star ratings are important, but it is necessary to consider what the users are saying. You will have a better idea after getting feedback on ease of use, app performance, or customer support. Watch trends—when a large number of users are complaining about one or the other, it is a red flag. Look at a platform with a great history of user satisfaction.
The Future of Online Entertainment
Online entertainment is quickly developing as the competition is growing. New technologies such as virtual reality (VR) and artificial intelligence (AI) are beginning to stir up. The streaming platforms are already testing the interactive content and providing users with greater control of their media consumption. This change may alter how entertainment is experienced as a whole.
In the future, expect the platforms to become even more personalized. As AI studies viewing habits, the platforms can suggest content specifically to your tastes. VR will also dominate the scene, immersing users in movies, games, and other content. The future is promising, and there are endless possibilities for how we can be involved with entertainment.
Final Tips for Making the Right Choice
When deciding on an online entertainment site, focus on what is important to you. Before committing, think of content variety, convenience of use, and cost. Conduct your research on user reviews and check free trials to get a sense of the service. Above all, do not compromise with a platform that will not suit you. You have lots of choices, so choose one that will work.
The race for the Capocannoniere is one of the most exciting parts of every Serie A season. It is a personal battle fought within a team of who has the skill to score the most goals and keep a consistent record till the end of the season. Last year, the highest goal scorer battle was won decisively by Napoli player, Mateo Retegui. But with his move to Saudi Arabia, the race for the 2025/26 Capocannoniere is wide open.
This season is no different, there are new tactics, fresh partnerships, and opportunities which will all play a part in deciding who finishes at the top of the scoring table. While a major transfer could still affect the results, the current contenders are already showing us that they might have a chance.
Based on the players stats, the respective teams, and overall fitness, these are the players we think are most likely to win the Capocannoniere in 2025 when the season concludes next May.
Matchplug is your go to sports website for all Serie A previews, betting predictions, odds and betting tips.
Before we get into the top contenders for this season’s Capocannoniere, Lets analyse the top goal scorer for the 2024/2025 season – Mateo Retegui.
Mateo Retegui’s Stunning 2024/25 Season
In recent years, the Serie A goalscorer ranking has been dominated by established strikers such as Immobile, Osimhen and Lautaro Martinez. The real surprise of the 2024/25 season was Mateo Retegui, who won the top goalscorer accolade playing for Atalanta.
Mateo Retegui’s journey to becoming Serie A’s top scorer is a unique one. Unlike many stars who come through European youth academies, Retegui learned how to improve his skills in his native, Argentina. He spent the early years of his career playing for Boca Juniors and later Club Atlético Tigre, where he developed a reputation as a powerful shot. His time in the smaller clubs prepared him for a life changing football career in Italy.
The 2024-25 season belonged to Mateo Retegui. Despite being the same year that Napoli surprised everyone by winning the Scudetto, Retegui’s incredible goal haul for Atalanta was what truly grabbed the headlines. The Italian center-forward netted 25 league goals, a full six goals more than his closest competitor, to win the coveted Capocannoniere award. His performance was so impressive that it earned him a massive €65 million transfer to Saudi Pro League club Al-Qadsiah earlier this month.
What makes his achievement even more remarkable is that it was only his second season in Italy. His first year at Genoa was solid but unspectacular, with seven goals in 29 appearances, a period hampered by a three-month injury. Under manager Alberto Gilardino, he was asked to work hard in a pressing system, which required a lot of running and defensive effort. Even then, his natural talent was clear. He showed a real striker’s instinct inside the penalty area and a willingness to shoot whenever he saw a glimpse of the goal.
His move to Atalanta and manager Gian Piero Gasperini was the perfect next step. Gasperini’s system is famous for getting the best out of attackers, and Retegui was no exception. He has always been strong in the air, but at Atalanta, he sharpened his movement and finishing in the box. His 25 goals made him only the second Atalanta player ever to finish as Serie A’s top scorer, following in the footsteps of Filippo Inzaghi back in the 1996-97 season.
His departure to Saudi Arabia leaves a vacuum.
The Top Contenders for the 2025/26 Capocannoniere
Predicting a top scorer is always difficult before the season begins. A surprise transfer could still change everything. However, based on current squads and last season’s form, these five players stand out as the most likely candidates to win the award.
Jonathan David (Juventus)
The Canadian striker is a new face in Serie A, signed by Juventus on a free transfer after his contract at Lille ended. He scored 109 goals with 30 assists in 232 appearances and in the last Ligue 1 season he scored 16 goals. The 25-year-old immediately steps into a huge role as Juventus’s main goal threat following the departure of Dusan Vlahovic.
David brings a proven track record of goals from France. Even in what was considered his third-lowest scoring season at Lille, he still managed a respectable 16 league goals. His consistency in Ligue 1 was never in doubt. The big question for David is not about his quality, but about the team behind him. Juventus have often been criticized for a conservative style of play. Will they create enough clear chances for him to truly compete for the top scorer prize? If the team can provide the service, David has the clinical edge to be in the conversation.
Moise Kean (Fiorentina)
Fiorentina’s Moise Kean finished the 2024/25 season with 19 league goals, placing him second in the goalscoring charts behind Mateo Retegui. Undoubtedly his best year so far, marked by continuity and decisiveness, has raised expectations for the 2025/26 season.
He is currently among the players most considered to be the top scorer by Matchplug. His excellent form, established regularity at Fiorentina, and offensive capabilities make him a serious contender for the Capocannoniere.
Rafael Leao (AC Milan)
Last season was a disaster for AC Milan, who finished eighth for the first time in a decade. Part of the problem was a breakdown in the relationship between star winger Rafael Leao and the previous coaches.
Leao has never been a player known for massive goal numbers; his game is about speed, dribbling, and creating for others. However, Allegri’s new system, combined with Milan’s current lack of a world-class central striker, might force Leao to take on more scoring responsibility. If he can add more goals to his game without losing his creative spark, he has the sheer talent to challenge for the Capocannoniere. He is a dark horse, but a very dangerous one.
Romelu Lukaku (Napoli)
Romelu Lukaku won another Scudetto in his first season at Napoli, but it wasn’t his most efficient personal campaign. He scored 14 league goals, as the team often relied on other players like Scott McTominay to make a difference in attack.
The reason he ranks so high on this list is a simple name: Kevin De Bruyne. The Belgian playmaker’s arrival at Napoli could change everything for Lukaku. The two have a fantastic understanding from their years together with the Belgian national team. De Bruyne’s genius for providing perfect assists could be exactly what Lukaku needs to get back to his best goal-scoring form. If their connection works as well as it has for Belgium, Lukaku’s goal numbers are almost certain to go up.
Lautaro Martinez (Inter Milan)
It is almost impossible to imagine Lautaro Martinez having two quiet seasons in a row. The Argentine striker was the Capocannoniere winner in 2023/24, but his form dipped last season. He contributed to Inter’s failed title defense, scoring only 12 goals in 31 appearances and often looking off the pace.
That is why he is the favorite to bounce back. He is too good a player to stay down for long. With Inter expected to come into the new season angry and motivated to reclaim the title, Lautaro will be at the heart of everything they do. He is the main man, the captain, and the focal point of their attack. He knows how to score goals in Serie A, and he will be desperate to make up for last year’s disappointment. As of this writing, Marcus Thuram is the early leader in the clubhouse, having scored 2 goals in Inter’s first 2 matches.
While this is a very small sample size, it shows that the race is already on and that surprises can always happen in the long and thrilling marathon of a Serie A season.
The last three outings haven’t been the best for Birmingham City, and they will look to bounce back at home against Swansea. The Blues sit 11th in the table, while the Swans are pushing for the playoff spots in 7th. Read on to find our prediction for this match.
Birmingham City will be desperate to halt their losing streak when they welcome an in-form Swansea side to St. Andrew’s this weekend. MatchPlug breaks down the odds, preview, and prediction for Birmingham vs Swansea.
Betting Preview for Birmingham City vs Swansea
Venue: St. Andrew’s Stadium
Date: Saturday, September 20th, 2025
Time: 15:00 BST
Teams: Birmingham City vs Swansea City
Odds provided by 1XBet
Betting on Birmingham City
1XBet Spread: +0.25
1XBet Moneyline: 2.90
1XBet Over/Under: Under 2.5
The Blues have lost three on the bounce, including a League Cup exit to Port Vale and back-to-back league defeats to Leicester (2-0) and Stoke (1-0). A worrying trend is their lack of goals – they’ve failed to score in their last three games, netting more than once in only two of their seven matches this season.
Birmingham’s strong start (seven points from their first three games) now feels like a distant memory, and they’ll need to rediscover their attacking spark quickly.
Betting on Swansea City
1XBet Spread: -0.25
1XBet Moneyline: 2.40
1XBet Over/Under: Over 2.5
Swansea look a completely different side compared to the start of the season. After opening with a defeat, they are unbeaten in seven across all competitions and arrive full of confidence. Their 3-2 League Cup victory over Premier League side Nottingham Forest highlighted their growing momentum.
The Swans have scored in all of their last seven games, with four of those producing two or more goals. Away from home, they’ve won three of their last five matches, and a victory here would push them into the playoff spots.
MatchPlug Prediction for Birmingham City vs Swansea
Form and confidence point only one way. Birmingham are struggling in front of goal, while Swansea are brimming with belief after a long unbeaten run. The visitors’ attacking consistency should make the difference here.
Hull City take on Southampton at the MKM Stadium in the EFL Championship on Saturday. Both teams have just one league win so far and are separated by a single point in the table. MatchPlug brings you the latest odds, preview, and prediction for Hull vs Southampton.
Betting Preview for Hull City vs Southampton
Venue: MKM Stadium
Date: Saturday, September 20th, 2025
Time: 15:00 BST
Teams: Hull City vs Southampton
Odds provided by 1XBet
Betting on Hull City
1XBet Spread: +0.5
1XBet Moneyline: 3.10
1XBet Over/Under: Over 2.5
Hull snapped a two-game losing streak with a 2-2 draw against Swansea last weekend, thanks to goals from Oli McBurnie and John Egan. However, defensively they’ve been fragile, conceding nine times across their last three matches.
The Tigers’ home record in this fixture is poor, with four losses in their last five games against Southampton at the MKM Stadium, failing to score in three of them. Injuries to Semi Ajayi and Matt Crooks don’t help, while Liam Millar remains a doubt.
Betting on Southampton
1XBet Spread: -0.5 1XBet Moneyline: 2.30 1XBet Over/Under: Under 2.5
Southampton extended their winless league run to four matches after a 0-0 draw with Portsmouth. That was the first time they failed to score this season, but Russell Martin’s men have otherwise been solid, losing just once in seven competitive games overall.
The Saints have looked dangerous away from home, netting five goals across their last two away matches. Cameron Archer and Welington are ruled out, while Flynn Downes faces a late fitness test.
MatchPlug Prediction for Hull City vs Southampton
Hull’s leaky defence and poor home record in this fixture are hard to ignore. Southampton have been steadier overall and tend to rise to the occasion on the road. Expect the Saints to do just enough here.
Liverpool and Everton lock horns in the first Merseyside derby of the 2025/26 Premier League season at Anfield on Saturday. MatchPlug provides the latest odds, preview, and prediction for Liverpool vs Everton. The Reds sit top of the table with a perfect 12 points, while the Toffees are in seventh with seven points.
Betting Preview for Liverpool vs Everton
Venue: Anfield
Date: Saturday, September 20th, 2025
Time: 12:30 BST
Teams: Liverpool vs Everton
Odds provided by 1XBet
Betting on Liverpool
1XBet Spread: -1.0
1XBet Moneyline: 1.40
1XBet Over/Under: Over 2.5
Liverpool have started the season with four wins from four, but their performances haven’t always matched the results. Five of their goals this season have come at or beyond the 88th minute, showing late resilience but also hinting at defensive vulnerability.
Arne Slot’s men remain strong at Anfield, where their attacking depth makes them overwhelming favourites, but their tendency to leave it late could again test the nerves of supporters.
Betting on Everton
1XBet Spread: +1.0
1XBet Moneyline: 7.50
1XBet Over/Under: Under 2.5
Everton arrived at Anfield in a confident mood, having kept three clean sheets in their last four matches across competitions. Sean Dyche’s side have bounced back from an opening-day loss to Leeds, finding solidity at the back while also contributing goals at key moments.
However, history is not on their side: the Toffees have rarely taken points at Anfield in recent years. Still, with form improving, they will believe they can make life difficult for their neighbours.
MatchPlug Prediction for Liverpool vs Everton
Liverpool may be flawless on paper but haven’t looked completely convincing. Everton’s solid form and clean sheets suggest they won’t be pushovers. With both teams capable of finding the net and Liverpool’s defence occasionally shaky, this derby looks primed for goals at both ends.
Final Prediction: Both Teams to Score (BTTS)
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