torres

Torres double fires Barcelona past Getafe to maintain La Liga chase

Barcelona eased past Getafe 3-0 at the Estadi Johan Cruyff, with Ferran Torres netting twice to keep the Catalan side firmly in the La Liga title hunt. The hosts dominated possession from the start despite torrential rain making for slick conditions. Getafe, meanwhile, arrived with their best points haul at this stage of a season. However, they were quickly pushed onto the back foot. After a bright run from Pedri was halted by a last-ditch block, Barça found the breakthrough moments later. Raphinha’s clever ball and Dani Olmo’s backheel set up Torres for a composed finish. The forward then doubled his tally before halftime, latching onto another pass from Raphinha and firing low past goalkeeper David Soria. Robert Lewandowski went close himself while Olmo impressed with a busy display. Although it was Torres who stole the show as Barcelona collected another routine home win.

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rashford

Flick vows to push Rashford to new heights at Barcelona

 Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has pledged to challenge Marcus Rashford to reach his full potential. The England forward scored twice in Barça’s 2-1 Champions League win at Newcastle on Thursday. This marked his first goals since arriving in Spain. Rashford endured a difficult final season at Old Trafford under Ruben Amorim, who questioned his attitude and work ethic. “I totally believe in his quality, but you always have to work hard and improve every day,” Flick said in Saturday’s press conference. “He has to understand what’s required here, and I’ll push him 100 per cent, while also supporting him.” Barcelona face Getafe on Sunday in La Liga and will be without injured winger Lamine Yamal, increasing the likelihood that Rashford starts again. Flick also downplayed Yamal’s chances of winning the Ballon d’Or this year but confirmed the club will attend Monday’s ceremony in Paris, unlike Real Madrid last year. PSG’s Ousmane Dembélé remains the frontrunner for the prize.

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dimarco

Dimarco strikes as Inter edge Sassuolo to halt losing run

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.

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Kane hat-trick fires Bayern past Hoffenheim

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.

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dortmund

Leadership void hurting Dortmund as old problems resurface

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.

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pulisic

Pulisic Leads Milan Into Serie A’s Top Three

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.

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Serie A Goal Scorer Prediction: Who Will Win the Capocannoniere in 2025

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

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Football Prediction Today: Birmingham City vs Swansea

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 Betting on Birmingham City 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 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. Final Prediction: Swansea to Win

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Football Prediction Today: Hull vs Southampton

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 Betting on Hull City 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. Final Prediction: Southampton to Win

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Football Prediction Today: West Ham vs Crystal Palace

West Ham United welcome Crystal Palace to the London Stadium on Sunday in a Premier League clash that could have major implications for Graham Potter’s future. MatchPlug provides the odds, preview, and prediction for West Ham vs Crystal Palace. The Hammers sit in 18th place after a poor start, while Palace are enjoying a steadier campaign in ninth. Betting Preview for West Ham vs Crystal Palace Betting on West Ham United 1XBet Spread: +0.0 1XBet Moneyline: 2.60 1XBet Over/Under: Under 2.5 West Ham have endured a dreadful start to the season, with only one win in four league games. Their home record is particularly alarming, with back-to-back heavy defeats at the London Stadium this season and just one win in their last 10 home league matches overall. Pressure is mounting on Graham Potter, as his side struggle to find stability at both ends of the pitch. A loss here could further jeopardize his position. Betting on Crystal Palace 1XBet Spread: +0.0 1XBet Moneyline: 2.75 1XBet Over/Under: Over 2.5 Crystal Palace, under Oliver Glasner, continue to look like one of the league’s most organised outfits. They’ve picked up one win and two draws from their first four matches and sit comfortably in mid-table. Jean-Philippe Mateta remains a constant attacking threat, while Palace’s defensive discipline makes them tough to break down. The Eagles are in a much calmer situation than their hosts, with confidence high in the squad. MatchPlug Prediction for West Ham vs Crystal Palace West Ham’s home struggles and overall poor run of form make them vulnerable, even against a Palace side that doesn’t always score heavily. The visitors are compact, disciplined, and have enough firepower to punish the Hammers. Final Prediction: Crystal Palace to win

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