Jane Njoku, Author at Matchplug Blog

England U21 coach Carsley praises Arsenal’s Nwaneri

England U21 coach Lee Carsley hails Arsenal talent Ethan Nwaneri after debut goal in 4-2 win over Portugal.

Carsley said: “It’s definitely a finish he’s got.

“So you know he’s going to go, touch, finish and he took his goal so well.

“He took his goal so well, but we have to keep remembering he’s 18. Unbelievable, isn’t it?

“So we just have to encourage these guys; it’s important the rest of the team support him as well because I’m not sure it’s always going be as progressive as it is.

“But what an impression he has made. It’s important we look after him and make sure that, going to the tournament in the summer, is that the right thing.

“Well obviously we’ll work with Arsenal and make sure that we’re on the same page.”

‘I want to impact the game’: Eze proud of first England goal

Crystal Palace star Ebere Eze expressed his pride after netting his first England goal. He became the club’s first player in 49 years to score for the national team in the World cup.

“I always want to impact the game,” Eze told ITV Sport after the match. “Whenever I play, however long I get.

“Today, it’s come off and I’m happy to get a goal as well and contribute.

“I just tried to create space. I tried to destabilise the defender and get my shot off – and it worked today.”

Eze added: “You know the qualities that he’s got. He’s capable of hitting dead balls like that – and it’s expected at his quality.

“It was a strong performance from us. We knew what we needed to do today. It was important to win, and that’s the main thing. I think we did well.”

Barton handed suspended 12-week sentence for assaulting wife

Former footballer Joey Barton received a 12-week suspended sentence for assaulting his wife, Georgia, at their home in 2021.

Barton, 42, was found guilty of kicking her in the head after a drunken argument. The court dismissed his defense as “untruthful” but suspended his sentence for two years, citing their ongoing relationship.

Despite Georgia later retracting her allegations, prosecutors deemed her initial 999 call strong evidence. Barton was also ordered to pay over £2,000 in costs.

NHL Expert Picks: Pittsburgh Penguins VS Tampa Bay Lightning

The Pittsburgh Penguins and Tampa Bay Lightning face off on Tuesday night at Amalie Arena, with both teams looking to snap their losing streaks. Read our preview for the Pittsburgh Penguins VS Tampa Bay Lightning.

The game is scheduled for 7:00 PM ET on Tuesday. Pittsburgh is out of the playoff race, while Tampa Bay is still battling to stay in the division.

Matchplug is your surest plug for your football predictions and analysis. Let’s get into the preview for this match.

Betting Preview for Pittsburgh Penguins vs Tampa Bay Lightning

Venue: Amalie Arena

Date: Tuesday, March 26th, 2025

Time: 7:00 PM ET

Teams: Pittsburgh Penguins vs Tampa Bay Lightning

Odds as provided by 1XBet

Betting on the Pittsburgh Penguins

1XBet Spread: +1.5
1XBet Moneyline: 4.505
1XBet Over/Under: Under 6.5

The Pittsburgh Penguins have had a challenging season and won’t be making the playoffs.

They enter this game on the back of a 4-3 loss to the Florida Panthers, their second loss in the last three games.

Sidney Crosby (78 points) continues to lead the team, with help from Rickard Rakell (62 points) and Bryan Rust (54 points), but their defensive issues have been a major concern all season. If they want to win this match, they will need to step up their game.

Betting on the Tampa Bay Lightning

1XBet Spread: -1.5

1XBet Moneyline: 1.629

1XBet Over/Under: Over 6.5

The Tampa Bay Lightning are looking to bounce back from a 4-2 loss to the Vegas Golden Knights.

Despite their two-game loss, they remain in the chase for a division title. Nikita Kucherov (98 points), Brandon Hagel (77 points), and Brayden Point (68 points) lead a strong offense, while Andrei Vasilevskiy provides stability in net.

Lightning’s home advantage gives them an opportunity to get back to winning ways.

Match Plug Prediction for Pittsburgh Penguins vs Tampa Bay Lightning

Pittsburgh’s defensive struggles and inconsistent performances make this matchup a tough one for them.

Tampa Bay have the better offense and with Vasilevskiy in net, they have the edge on both ends of the ice.

Our prediction for this game is for the Lightning to dominate and finish with a much-needed win.

Final Prediction: Tampa Bay Lightning Moneyline

NHL Expert Picks: Blues vs Canadiens

This Tuesday Night, the NHL regular season heats up as the St. Louis Blues take on the Montreal Canadiens in a critical matchup. Read the match preview for the Blues VS Canadiens match.

With both teams fighting for playoff spots, this game is a must-win for each side. Matchplug has the surest predictions and picks for all NHL matches.

Betting Preview for Blues vs Canadiens

Venue: T-Mobile Arena
Date: Tuesday, March 26th, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM ET
Teams: St. Louis Blues vs Montreal Canadiens
Odds as provided by 1XBet

Betting on the St. Louis Blues

1XBet Spread: 0

1XBet Moneyline: 2.08

1XBet Over/Under: Over 5.5

The St. Louis Blues are on a roll, having won five straight games, including key victories that have helped them build a 4-point lead over the Calgary Flames.

Although this winning streak has put them in a solid position for the playoffs, they can’t afford to slow down. They’ll need to maintain their high level of play to secure a spot in the postseason.

Betting on the Montreal Canadiens

1XBet Spread: 0

1XBet Moneyline: 3.02

1XBet Over/Under: Under 5.5

The Montreal Canadiens have shown flashes of potential this season but have been inconsistent, especially in recent games.

After dropping two overtime losses to the Colorado Avalanche and New York Islanders, they’re at risk of losing their Wild Card position.

Although montreal has the talent to surprise, their offensive struggles could be their downfall against a well-rounded team like the Blues.

Match Plug Prediction for Blues vs Canadiens

This matchup is expected to be closely contested, but the Blues’ current form and offensive depth give them a clear edge.

While Montreal may have won the first game in their regular-season series, St. Louis has been on fire lately. We see them carrying that momentum into this game.

Our Prediction for the game is for St. Louis Blues to win.

Final Prediction: St. Louis Blues Over/Under

NHL Expert Picks: Philadelphia Flyers vs Toronto Maple Leafs

Happening this Tuesday is an exciting matchup between the Philadelphia Flyers and the Toronto Maple Leafs at Scotiabank Arena. Read our preview for the Philadelphia Flyers VS Toronto Maples Leafs.

The game is scheduled for 7:00 PM ET on Tuesday night. Both teams are coming off losses and will be looking to bounce back in this Eastern Conference showdown.

Matchplug is the surest plug for all football previews. Let’s get into the preview for this match!

Betting Preview for Philadelphia Flyers vs Toronto Maple Leafs

Venue: Scotiabank Arena
Date: Tuesday, March 26th, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM ET
Teams: Philadelphia Flyers vs Toronto Maple Leafs
Odds as provided by 1XBet

Betting on the Philadelphia Flyers

1XBet Spread: +1.5
1XBet Moneyline: 4.25
1XBet Over/Under: Under 5.5

The Philadelphia Flyers are struggling, entering this game on a five-game losing streak after falling 7-4 to the Chicago Blackhawks on Sunday.

With no chance of making the playoffs, they’ll be playing to defend the pride.

Players Travis Konecny (68 points), Matvei Michkov (50 points), and Owen Tippett (37 points) lead the team, but they’ll need a much better defensive effort if they want to avoid another disappointing loss.

Betting on the Toronto Maple Leafs

1XBet Spread: -1.5
1XBet Moneyline: 1.7
1XBet Over/Under: Over 5.5

The Toronto Maple Leafs are looking to redeem themselves after their 5-2 loss to the Nashville Predators on Saturday, ending their three-game winning streak.

The Maple Leafs remain one of the stronger teams in the East, led by Mitch Marner (85 points), William Nylander (73 points), and Auston Matthews (63 points).

With a playoff spot secured, Toronto will be looking to get back on a new winning streak.

Match Plug Prediction for Philadelphia Flyers vs Toronto Maple Leafs

The Flyers are in a slump, and facing a strong team like the Maple leafs at home ice doesn’t do them any good.

While Philadelphia has some good players, their recent defensive struggles puts them at a disadvantage against a high scoring team like Maple Leafs. Our prediction for this game is for Toronto to secure a comfortable win.

Final Prediction: Toronto Maple Leafs Moneyline

NHL Expert Picks: Winnipeg Jets VS Washington Capitals

The Winnipeg Jets take on the Washington Capitals in a big matchup on Tuesday night. Read our preview for the Winnipeg Jets VS Washington Capitals match.

Both teams have had strong seasons, but neither seem to be a top championship contender.

With the regular season winding down, this game is an important test as they push for playoff positioning.

Betting Preview for Winnipeg Jets vs Washington Capitals

Venue: Capital One Arena
Date: Tuesday, March 26th, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM ET
Teams: Jets vs Capitals
Odds as provided by 1XBet

Betting on the Winnipeg Jets

1XBet Spread: 0
1XBet Moneyline: 2.133
1XBet Over/Under: Over 5.5

The Jets have been inconsistent, struggling to find reliable performances outside of Kyle Connor and Josh Morrissey.

Heading into this match, they’ll need a strong all-around effort to compete with Washington’s firepower.

Betting on the Washington Capitals

1XBet Spread: 0
1XBet Moneyline: 3.058
1XBet Over/Under: Under 5.5

The Capitals lead the NHL with 102 points and have won four straight games. Their offense is one of the best in the league, scoring 257 goals this season.

With Alex Ovechkin closing in on the all-time scoring record, Washington has plenty of momentum.

Match Plug Prediction for Winnipeg Jets vs Washington Capitals

The Jets have talent, but they lack depth and consistency to win this match.

Washington has the upper hand, especially with Ovechkin chasing history.

Expect the Capitals to take control and win this one.

Final Prediction: Washington Capitals Total

NBA Expert Picks: Cleveland Cavaliers vs Portland Trail Blazers

The Cleveland Cavaliers take on the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center in a cross-conference showdown on Wednesday morning. Read our preview for the Cleveland Cavaliers vs Portland Trail Blazers.

The match is scheduled for 03:00 AM on Wednesday.

The Blazers are fighting to keep their play-in hopes alive, while the Cavaliers sit at the top of the Eastern Conference. Matchplug is the best website to get the surest picks for all basketball games.

Betting Preview for Cleveland Cavaliers vs Portland Trail Blazers

Venue: Moda Center
Date: Wednesday, March 26, 2025
Time: 03:00 AM
Teams: Cavaliers vs. Trail Blazers
Odds as provided by 1XBet

Betting on the Portland Trail Blazers

1XBet Spread: +6.5
1XBet Moneyline: 3.125
1XBet Over/Under: Over 230.5

The Trail Blazers saw their four-game winning streak come to an end with a 129-116 loss to the Boston Celtics. Despite the setback, they’ve been strong at home, winning four of their last five at Moda Center. Shaedon Sharpe has been a key contributor, leading the team with 23 points in their last game.

Betting on the Cleveland Cavaliers

1XBet Spread: -6.5
1XBet Moneyline: 1.396
1XBet Over/Under: Under 230.5

The Cavaliers snapped a four-game losing streak with a dominant 120-91 win over the Utah Jazz. However, their recent struggles on the road are concerning, considering they previously won 11 straight away games. They’ll need to regain their form to avoid another slip-up.

Match Plug Prediction for Cleveland Cavaliers vs Portland Trail Blazers

The Trail Blazers have momentum at home, while the Cavaliers are looking to re-establish their dominance. Although Cleveland has the better roster, Portland has shown they can compete, especially after their strong performance against Boston.
Our prediction is a close game with the Cavaliers securing the win, but the Blazers covering the spread.

Final Prediction: Cleveland Cavaliers Spread

NBA Expert Picks: Sacramento Kings vs. Oklahoma City Thunder

The Sacramento Kings face a tough challenge on Tuesday night as they host the Oklahoma City Thunder at Golden 1 Center. Read our preview for the Sacramento Kings vs. Oklahoma City Thunder.

The Kings are struggling to find consistency, while OKC continues to dominate the Western Conference. The Match is scheduled for 10:00 PM ET at the Golden 1 Center.

Matchplug has the latest picks for all NBA games. Let’s get into the preview for this match.

Betting Preview for Sacramento Kings vs. Oklahoma City Thunder

Venue: Golden 1 Center
Date: Tuesday, March 26, 2025
Time: 10:00 PM ET
Teams: Kings vs. Thunder
Odds as provided by 1XBet

Betting on the Sacramento Kings

1XBet Spread: +9.5
1XBet Moneyline: 4.205
1XBet Over/Under: Over 233.5

The Kings have lost three straight games and are 3-7 in their last 10. Their latest defeat came against the Celtics, where they managed just 17 points in the fourth quarter.

DeMar DeRozan led the team with 20 points and 10 assists, but Sacramento’s offensive struggles have been a major concern.

Betting on the Oklahoma City Thunder

1XBet Spread: -9.5

1XBet Moneyline: 1.252

1XBet Over/Under: Under 233.5

The Thunder have won 13 of their last 14 games, including a hard-fought 103-101 victory over the Clippers. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander continues to be their leader, dropping 26 points and eight assists in their last outing.

OKC ranks fourth in scoring (119.3 PPG) and is second in defense (106.8 PPG), making them one of the most balanced teams in the league.

Match Plug Prediction for Sacramento Kings vs. Oklahoma City Thunder

The Kings are struggling at the worst time, while the Thunder are playing some of their best basketball.

Sacramento’s defense has been shaky, and against an elite OKC squad, they may struggle to keep up. Our prediction is for Thunder to take control and grab another win.

Final Prediction: Oklahoma City Thunder Over/Under

NBA Expert Picks: Utah Jazz vs Memphis Grizzlies

The Utah Jazz and Memphis Grizzlies face off at Delta Center on Monday in a Western Conference showdown. Read our preview for the Utah Jazz vs Memphis Grizzlies.

The Jazz sit at the bottom of the standings, while the Grizzlies look to bounce back from a rough stretch on the road.

Matchplug has the best previews for all NBA games. Let’s get into the match prediction.

Betting Preview for Utah Jazz vs Memphis Grizzlies

Venue: Delta Center
Date: Monday, March 25, 2025
Time: 9:00 PM ET
Teams: Jazz vs Grizzlies
Odds as provided by 1XBet

Betting on the Utah Jazz

1XBet Spread: +10.5
1XBet Moneyline: 5.26
1XBet Over/Under: Over 240.5

Utah is coming off a heavy 129-91 home loss to Cleveland, exposing their weak transition defense. The Jazz have lost two straight and six of their last seven, with their only win in that stretch coming against Washington. While they’ve been slightly better at home, their 9-28 record in the last 37 games doesn’t offer much optimism.

Betting on the Memphis Grizzlies

1XBet Spread: -10.5
1XBet Moneyline: 1.209
1XBet Over/Under: Under 240.5

Memphis is in the middle of a five-game road trip, still searching for their first win after three consecutive road losses.
They struggled against the Clippers in a 128-108 defeat, despite Jaren Jackson Jr.’s 23-point effort. The Grizzlies have a 1-4 record in their last five games, looking to regain their form after a four-game winning streak earlier this month.

Match Plug Prediction for Utah Jazz vs Memphis Grizzlies

Both teams are struggling, but Memphis has the edge in consistency.

Utah’s defense hasn’t been great, and with the Grizzlies eager to break their losing streak, expect them to control this matchup. Our prediction for this match is for Memphis Grizzlies to win.

Final Prediction: Memphis Grizzlies Over/Under

Jane Njoku