This is a 4* play on Newcastle.

There was plenty of excitement for Newcastle fans heading into this season after they finished 4th in the Premier League last year and clinched a spot in the Champions League. Some might ask what has gone wrong, after Newcastle lost three of their first four games. I will point out that before you overreact, note that losses came against Liverpool, Manchester City and Brighton. The only home loss to Liverpool saw them dominate play, lead until the dying minutes and concede a pair of late goals. Facing Brentford is an opportunity for the Magpies to get back on track.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Liverpool.

Aston Villa has been great at home, outscoring the opposition a combined 7-0 in their last two matches. They haven't been as good on the road, losing 5-1 at Newcastle in their season opener. This trend goes back to last year, when they won six of 19 games and had a -7 goal differential in 19 away matches. Liverpool won 13 of 19 home matches last season, and only Manchester City had a better goal differential. Liverpool is 4-0-1 in the last five head to head matches.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

Chelsea is coming off a 1-1 draw versus Liverpool, in a match that had two goals disallowed by VAR. They host Luton Town, and these teams have a history of playing high scoring games. Last year Chelsea won 3-2 in an FA Cup match versus Luton Town. Neither team looks particularly good defensively, Luton conceding four goals in one match and Chelsea allowing four goals in two matches. Expect a 3-1 scoreline here with the home team prevailing.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Arsenal.

The Gunners had the best away record in the Premier League last season, going 12-4-3 in all their away matches. They will play at Crystal Palace Monday, and Palace won just seven of their 19 home matches last season. The Gunners won their season opener by a score of 2-1 versus Nottingham Forest. That match wasn't as close as the score indicates, as Forest added a late goal in the 82nd minute after trailing 2-0 since midway through the first half. The Gunners won both meetings versus Palace last season by a combined score of 6-1.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on VILLA.

Both these teams too a loss in their season opener, but Everton lost at home to Fulham while Aston Villa was in a far tougher position on the road at Newcastle. These two teams appear to be heading in opposite directions, as Villa finished strong last season while Everton was very fortunate to avoid relegation. Everton has failed to score in four of their last five matches versus Aston Villa, going 0-4-1 in those games. I'll take the home side here.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

AFC Bournemouth conceded 71 goals in the Premier League last year, only two teams conceded more. Both those teams (Leeds and Southampton) were relegated to the Championship. Bournemouth has faced West Ham five times since 2019 and four of those games went over the total. West Ham played three friendly matches prior to the start of the season, and all three of those went over the total. New rules in the Premier League allow for more added time at the end of the first half as well as past the 90th minute. The offside rule has also been relaxed, which will undoubtedly lead to more goals.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on over.

So Man City was clinging to a 1-0 lead over Arsenal in the Community Shield, but the Gunners were given an incredible amount of extra time to get the equalizer, and then went on to win on penalties. The Premier League is emphasizing more added time this season, and they have also relaxed offside rules. These new rules will certainly lead to more scoring. Arsenal was unlucky not convert on any of their chances in the first half versus City, and Phil Foden was inches away from making the score 2-0. This match features the Premier League scoring leaders from 2022, and a newly promoted Burnley team that scored a league best 87 goals in the Championship last year.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

Messi has arrived in Miami, and it didn't take long for him to make his mark. A converted free kick was the game winner as he came off the bench against Cruz Azul in the League Cup. He will be the team captain and may even start against Atlanta tonight. As much as Messi adds excitement and should help Miami score goals, it's unlikely he can change the fact that they have conceded nine goals in their last five matches. They rank near the bottom of MLS in goals against, and the addition of Messi won't improve their defense. Miami has gone over in three of their last four versus Atlanta.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on St. Louis.

There is plenty of excitement with Lionel Messi arriving in Miami. The future might well be bright for Miami FC, but this is still the worst team in MLS. They have just one road win in 10 away matches this season. They face a St. Louis team that ranks 1st in MLS in goal differential. St. Louis is 7-1-3 with a +16 goal differential at home. They should have little trouble with a Miami team that is decimated by injury.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Over.

Only one team in MLS has scored 30+ goals and conceded 30+ goals this season, and that team is Atlanta United. They host Philly Sunday, and these teams are both playing well offensively in recent matches. Atlanta has scored eight goals in their last three home matches, while Philly has scored 11 in their last five overall.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on MTL.

It's no picnic playing north of the border, and Montreal F.C. has only played eight home games. They have won seven of those contests, with a +12 goal differential. New York City has played 11 away matches, without a single win to show for it. We will be way of a draw here, but this is a game that Montreal should win.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

Don't look now but the Houston Dynamos are starting to live up to their name. They are one of the hottest teams in MLS, winning four straight and scoring a total of 13 goals in those games. Austin F.C. comes into this Texas showdown off a 3-0 win over Dallas, and they have gone over in five straight matches overall. Get ready for another shootout in Texas.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Atlanta F.C.

Atlanta is undefeated in their last five matches, while New York City comes in winless in their last five overall. New York City was fortunate to score on a penalty in injury time to salvage a 1-1 draw in their last match. Home field advantage should come into play here, as Atlanta has a +16 goal differential at home while New York City is -6 on the road. Atlanta has scored 10 goals in their last three home matches.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

The Portland Timber have scored just two goals in their last five matches, playing to a scoreless draw twice during that span. The San Jose Earthquakes have scored just five goals in their last five matches, and they have a couple of draws during that span. The draw looks likely in this game, whether scoreless or 1-1.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

Both these teams have scored 20 or more goals as well as conceded 20 or more goals. The last time the Crew played at Chicago they won by a score of 3-2, and I am expecting both teams to score here in this match.The Crew have gone over in four of their last five matches, and Chicago is coming off a 4-1 loss at home versus Houston.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on VAN.

The Whitecaps are on fire at home, and their 19 goals in eight home matches rank first in MLS. They are coming off a 6-2 win over Houston, and they could have similar success against KC. Sporting Kansas City has just one win in nine away matches, while the Whitecaps have just one loss in eight home matches.

GL, '

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on CINCI.

Cincinnati sits at the top of the MLS standings, and they are undefeated at home this season. The Chicago Fire have just three wins in 15 matches, but they also have just four losses. They have been hanging around in games and have played to a draw eight times. While I am sure Chicago would be pleased with a draw here, it won't be easy. Cincinnati is eight points clear of the #2 ranked team in MLS (Nashville).

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on the Sounders.

While Portland has had the better of this rivalry in recent seasons, the Sounders look to be ready to reclaim their position as one of the top clubs in MLS. Seattle sits in first place in the West, a full 10 points clear of Portland. Seattle has just one loss in nine home matches, while Portland has just one win in eight away matches. The Timbers have scored just one goal in their last three matches, and they have scored just 19 in 15 matches overall.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on MUTD.

These two rivals meet in the FA Cup, and Manchester City looks to complete a Treble (3 x Tropies). Standing in their way are rivals Manchester United, who are the only Premier League club to have won a Treble. There doesn't appear to be a lot of separation between the two clubs, who each won at home in the season series. Manchester United has only conceded three goal while winning four of their last five matches in all competitions. I expect this match to be close, and I wouldn't be surprised to see it go to extra time and penalties.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Columbus.

The Rapids have lost five straight, and they have failed to score in three of their last four. The Crew are a juggernaut at home, with the second best goal differential in MLS. Columbus has scored 26 goals in 14 matches, more than double the 12 goals that Colorado has managed. You can't win if you can't score ... bad news for the Rapids.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Everton.

The math is simple for the Toffees, win and you're in. They appeared to be destined for relegation, but after earning points in three of their last four matches they are in the driver's seat here at home on "Survival Sunday". They draw a favorable matchup against a Bournemouth team that has nothing to play for, and has one of the worst goal differentials in away matches in the Premier League. In fact only Southampton ranks worse.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Brighton.

So Manchester City has already won the Premier League, and they have FA Cup and Champions League Final matches upcoming. Looking at a potential "Treble", there is no way Pep is going to want to risk any of his star players in what is a meaningless match for the Champions. Brighton on the other hand has a chance to entertain the fans in a home game against perhaps the best team in the world at the moment. Brighton has 10 wins at home this season, one fewer than Manchester City has on the road. Manchester City has Brighton to thank for their clinching the Premier League title, as it was a 3-0 Brighton win over Arsenal that really ended the Gunners hopes of catching City.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Under.

Historically we have seen high scoring games in the "Trafico" series, but things are different this year. The LA Galaxy sit in last place in the West, and they have only scored 10 goals in 13 matches. LAFC has allowed the fewest goals of any team in the West, conceding 10 goals in a dozen matches. The under is 7-0 in LAFC's last seven matches in MLS.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Liverpool.

Never mind the high price, this is a very high percentage situation. Liverpool at home this season are 13-4-1, and they have won five straight versus Aston Villa. Perhaps the most significant is the magnitude of this game for Liverpool, who can still move ahead of Manchester United for a spot in the Champions League. Aston Villa on the other hand have already achieved everything they could have achieved this season.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on RMA +1.

As good as Manchester City is, and while I do think they deserve to be a favorite, I feel the line is a little inflated. The fact is that in the last five head to head meetings only one team has a win by more than one goal. That game was the second leg last year when Real Madrid scored in added time to win on aggregate. The score after 90 minutes was 2-1, so technically would not have covered the 1-goal handicap. The first leg showed what appeared to be little separation between these teams, and scoring chances were at a premium. The way I see it, the score could be tied after the 90, or either team could be winning. Two of those three scenarios get me paid with this bet.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Arsenal. 

The Premier League Title is still on the table for Arsenal, and they should plenty of fight in a 2-0 win over Newcastle in their last match. Brighton wasn't nearly as impressive in their last match, losing 5-1 to an Everton team facing relegation. Brighton will not finish in the Top 5, but they are cruising to a solid position in the top half of the table, and a potential entry into the Europa League. A complacent Brighton team should be no match for an Arsenal squad fighting for the title. Arsenal is 13-1-3 at home this season, with a +26 goal differential. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on OVER.

We should expect a high score when Atlanta United hosts Charlotte. Atlanta leads the Eastern Conference in scoring with 20 goals in 11 matches, while Charlotte ranks dead last in MLS in goals against, conceding 21 goals in 11 matches. Atlanta United has gone over the number in four straight matches in all competitions while Charlotte has gone over in three of their last four matches.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over. 

It should come as no surprise that these two teams have gone over the total in each of the last five meetings. Manchester City leads the Premier League in scoring with 89 goals in 34 matches, and Real Madrid leads the Spanish La Liga in scoring with 69 goals in 33 matches. Erling Haaland is the favorite to win the Ballon d'Or, and Karim Benzema is the reigning Ballon d'Or winner. History tells us we should see plenty of scoring in this first leg match. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Newcastle United.

Just when you thought that Arsenal was going to win the Premier League, they crumpled under the pressure. They come into Sunday's away match at Newcastle with just one win in their last five games. The Magpies have won four of their last five, and they have only lost once at home in the Premier League this season. Arsenal played here last May and lost by a score of 2-0. The Gunners destiny is out of their hands, and their only hope to win the league is if Manchester City slips up. Newcastle is in a three way battle for a Champions League spot with Manchester United and Liverpool. I like the home team to get the win in this spot.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Over.

So Chelsea comes into this away match at Bournemouth as a huge favorite, despite losing five straight matches in all competitions. During that span the Blues conceded 11 goals. Bournemouth is now tied on point with Chelsea, and they have four of their last five matches. Only Leeds United has conceded more goals than Bournemouth (64) so far in the Premier League this season. Cheslea has gone over in three straight matches at Bournemouth, and that trend should continue here today.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Brighton Hove Albion.

Brighton has been great at home this season, with a record of 8-3-4 and a +17 goal differential. Manchester United has a -10 goal differential in away matches, but they are shorthanded coming into this match. Injuries to several key defenders leave them thin at the back. Both Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez are injured, leaving Luke Shaw, Victor Lindelof and Harry McGuire as likely starters. They face a Brighton team off a 6-0 thrashing of Wolverhampton. Brighton has outscored United by a combined score of 6-1 in the last three meetings.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Liverpool. 

The Spurs are struggling, and they have recently sacked their manager. Their defending has been shocking, conceding 11 goals in their last three matches. Liverpool is still one of the best in the Premier League on their home pitch, losing just once at Anfield this season. Their +26 goal differential at home is second to Manchester City. Liverpool is undefeated, with a record of 3-0-2 in their last five versus Tottenham. Expect Spurs to struggle here in this fixture. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Newcastle.

The Magpies sit 3rd in the Premier League table, tied on points with Manchester United. They have to keep winning games down the stretch if they want to secure a spot in the Champions League next season. They face an Everton squad that sits in the relegation zone, and certainly you have to consider this a "must win" game for the Toffees. The thing is, you don't find yourself in the relegation zone unless you consistently lose the games you should have won. Newcastle has won four of the last five versus Everton, and they have the 3rd best away record in the Premier League.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

Bayern Munich and Manchester City are the highest scoring teams in Europe, each with 78 goals in their respective domestic leagues. The second leg of this Champions League tie has Bayern returning home down 3-0 on aggregate, needing to score four goals to advance to the Semi Finals. This game should start fast, and be full speed for 90 minutes. Last year in this spot Manchester City lost 3-1 to Real Madrid, losing 6-5 on aggregate. I expect Bayern to score goal at home, but I also expect City to counter with a few of their own.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on RMA.

This looks like a mismatch. Chelsea is reeling, recently firing manager Graham Potter, and hiring former player Frank Lampard as the new manager. Lampard has a record of 37-40-19 as a manager, so it seems a curious choice for a club with one of the highest payrolls in Europe. Chelsea has failed to score in three straight matches, while Madrid has scored a dozen in their last three. Karim Benzema ranks 4th all time in Champions League scoring, and he scored a hat trick at Liverpool earlier this year. I like Madrid to win this game in a blowout.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on MCI.

Six time Champions League winners Bayern Munich will be the underdog at the Etihad in the first leg of this Champions League Quarterfinal. Bayern has not impressed with recent form, and this team is really missing Robert Lewandowski. The Polish International scored 50 goals in all competitions last year with Bayern, and he is replaced by Sadio Mane and Jamaal Musiala. Between the two of them they have scored just 17 goals in the Bundesliga this season. Manchester City is stacked, with Norwegian phenom Erling Haaland breaking the teams single season goal scoring record in the middle of the season. Manchester City has a +33 goal differential in 14 home matches in the Premier League this season. I think Bayern would do well to keep this game close, and a loss by one goal might not be a bad result heading into the second leg.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Liverpool.

So it's a down year for Liverpool, coming into Sunday's match winless in their last four in all competitions. They failed to score in three of those four matches. The good news is that all those results came away from Anfield, and their last home match was a record breaking 7-0 win over Manchester United. They have just one loss in 13 home matches this season, and they have won six straight home games versus Arsenal. They rested several players in a midweek draw at Chelsea, and that means almost everyone is fit for this clash versus Arsenal.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on RMA.

Real Madrid has won their last two games by a combined score of 10-0. Ballon Dor winner Karim Benzema has scored six goals in those games. They host Villarreal here on Saturday, and I wouldn't want to step in front of this juggernaut right now. Madrid has not lost in 13 home games this season, and they have a +23 goal differential in those matches. Madrid has scored more than double (32) goals at home, than Villarreal have scored on the road (15).

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

So Spurs have parted ways with their manager, and often we see such a change of direction provide a spark for a team. They will play at Everton, and the Toffees are desperate for points as they look to avoid relegation. Spurs have scored six goal in their last two matches, and Everton has scored three goals in their two matches before the International break. Don't be surprised if we see a 2-2 draw here at Goodison Park.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Chelsea.

It's been a disastrous season for Chelsea despite having the highest payroll in the Premier League. The spending spree has brought in star players but the results haven't translated on the pitch. Chelsea sits 10th in the table, tied on points with Aston Villa. The two teams will play at Stamford Bridge Saturday, and the bookmakers are offering a reasonable price on the home favorite. Keep in mind that Chelsea is 9-1-1 in their last 11 Premier League matches versus Aston Villa, with only one loss in their last 19 home matches. Villa comes in undefeated in their last four matches, but all those games were against teams facing relegation.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Under.

Newcastle has fallen on tough times, failing to score a goal in three straight matches. They are winless in their last five matches, with just two goals in those games. The only points they have to show for themselves come from a pair of 1-1 draws. They host Wolverhampton Sunday, and three of their last five versus Wolves ended with a final score of 1-1. Four of the last head to head matches went under the total. Wolves is coming off a 1-0 win over Spurs, and they have failed to reach the total in each of their last four matches.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Under.

Benfica is a big favorite here at home versus Club Brugge, but they will start the contest with a 2-0 lead on aggregate. There is no urgency for Benfica to score, especially given how solid they are defensively. They have conceded just one goal in their last four matches in all competitions, posting three clean sheets during that span. I like Benfica to post another clean sheet here in the second leg at home.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Over.

As inconsistent as Liverpool has been this season, they are still a force to be reckoned with at Anfield. They have just one loss at home, and they have scored 24 goals in just a dozen home matches this season. They will likely need to score a few to beat a Manchester United team that has scored two or more goals in 11 straight matches in all competitions. History suggest we are in for a high score here, with the over going 5-0 in the last five meetings between these teams.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on MCI.

Newcastle's time in the Top 5 in the table may be short lived. They have failed to score in their last two matches versus Liverpool and Manchester United. They have failed to score in four of their last seven matches in the Premier League, and they have just one win during that span. They did earn a draw at home versus City earlier this season, but they had lost four in a row versus City prior to that. They failed to score in three of those four losses. They lost their last game at the Etihad by a score of 5-0. This should be a one sided affair.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on RMA.

In the United States they say "It's all about the Benjamins", but in the Coppa del Rey in Spain it's all about Karim Benzema! The Ballon Dor winner has returned to form, and he's netted four goal in his last three games played. The first leg will be a home game for Real Madrid, and Barcelona comes limping in off back to back losses and leading scorer Robert Lewandowski is out with a hamstring injury.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Over.

So Manchester United comes into the Carabao Cup Final on a roll. They have scored at least two goals in 10 straight matches in all competitions. We saw Liverpool and Chelsea play a 0-0 draw in last year's Carabao Cup Final, but history tells us that we should expect more scoring here. Since 2020, the over has hit in 15 of the 23 Finals. Five of those games involved Manchester United, and three of those games saw 3+ goals. I am predicting a 2-1 win for United over Newcastle.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Arsenal.

So Arsenal is battling to stay top of the table in the Premier League, with Manchester City just two points behind. They need to pick up all the points they can from here on out, and an away match at Leicester might look like a tricky spot. Actually it might be more favorable than you would think. Leicester ranks 19th in the Premier League in home/away splits, while Arsenal has the best away record among the 20 Premier League clubs. The Gunnars are 9-1-2 in away matches, with a +15 goal differential. They have won four straight against Leicester, and two of those wins came at King Power Stadium.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Under.

So Fulham is undefeated in their last five matches in all competitions, and four of those five games went under the total. They host Wolverhampton, who ranks dead last in the Premier League in scoring with 17 goals scored in 23 matches played. The last time these teams played it ended in a scoreless draw. Each of the previous three meetings ended in a score of 1-0, and before that they played to a 1-1 draw. Wolverhampton would love a draw here, so expect them to be very pessimistic in their play.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Under.

I expect to see a cautious approach from both these teams in the first leg of this Champions League Round of 16 tie. Porto comes in as winners of five straight matches in all competitions, and they posted a clean sheet in four of those games. Inter is also undefeated in their last four matches, and they posted three clean sheets during that span. Porto has posted a clean sheet in three of it's last four matches in the Champions League.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

Napoli has scored a Champions League best 20 goals in six matches in the competition, and they lead the Series A in scoring with 56 goals in 23 matches. Frankfurt is capable of scoring their share of goals as well, averaging two goals per game in the Bundesliga. The over is 5-1 in Napoli's six Champions League matches so far, and I expect to see at least three goals scored here in this Round of 16 match.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Newcastle.

Casual soccer fans may not know that Newcastle is undefeated at home in the Premier League this season, and that they rank 1st in the league in goals against. They currently sit in fourth place, while Liverpool is nine points back. Liverpool has won just twice in 10 matches away from Anfield, with a goal differential of -8 in those games. Newcastle is on better form, going undefeated in their last five matches in all competitions, while Liverpool has lost back to back away matches at Brighton and Wolves. The value is on the home team here.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Liverpool.

It's been a brutal season for Liverpool, and they are coming off back to back losses to Brighton and Wolves on the road. They return to Anfield to face Everton in the Merseyside Derby on Monday. Liverpool has suffered just one home loss in 10 matches this season, while Everton has won just once in 10 away matches this season. Only two Premier League teams have a better goal differential at home than Liverpool (+14). This looks like a great spot to back the home team at a reduced price. I have Liverpool winning 2-0.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Over.

Manchester City is the highest scoring team in the Premier League by a country mile, and they score the majority of their goals at the Etihad. In fact they have tallied 38 goals in just 11 home matches in the league this season. They host an Aston Villa team that is coming off a 4-2 home loss to Leicester. After Arsenal dropped points again on Saturday, we expect City to be fired up here on Sunday. I am predicting a final score of 3-1.

Note: I did correctly predict the final score of 1-1 with my premium play on Crystal Palace yesterday.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Crystal Palace.

It's not easy to win on the road in the Premier League, and I'll take Palace to get at least a draw here against Brighton. Crystal Palace has played to a draw in two of their last three matches, including a 1-1 home draw versus Manchester United. History suggests this game could very well be a draw, as three of the last four meetings between these teams ended with a final score of 1-1.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on NEWCASTLE.

The Hammers come in as winners of three of their last four matches, but when you look at their opponents in those games it's not so impressive. Derby County in the FA Cup, a home win over an Everton team currently sitting in the relegation zone, and a 1-0 win at Brentford. They face a Newcastle team Saturday that sits Top 3 in the table, and hasn't lost at home yet this season. West Ham has conceded twice as many goals as Newcastle, and just barely scored half as many as the Magpies.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on OVER.

These are the top two scoring teams in the Premier League, and while in some cases a Cup match might not be as significant as a league game, in this case it's an opportunity for both these teams to make a statement. Arsenal sits five points clear of City in the Premier League standings, and a win here at the Etihad might be soul crushing for Pep Guardiola's side. It won't be easy, as Man City has scored a whopping 38 goals in 11 home matches. Arsenal though has the best away record in the Premier League, and they have scored 20 goals in 10 away matches. I like both teams to score here, and we should see a high score. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Fullham.

Fullham has earned points in eight of their 10 home games this season, while Spurs have dropped points in five of their last seven matches overall. These teams are trending in opposite directions, with Fullham on the rise and Spurs looking like they need to make wholesale changes. Harry Kane is rumored to be on the way out, possibly linked to Manchester United. Spurs haven't had a draw on the road in the Premier League this season, but they should be happy if they can get a draw here.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

Arsenal sits top of the table in the Premier League, but they host a Manchester United home that has been on a roll of late. Eric Ten Hag has really turned things around, winning seven of their last eight matches in all competitions, and going unbeaten during that span. They have scored a dozen goals in their last five matches. Only Manchester City has scored more goals this season than Arsenal. The last three meetings between these teams have all gone over 3. I expect both teams to score and we should see a minimum of three goals.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Spurs.

Arsenal sits top of the table, and there's no doubt that the Gunners have been the better side so far this season. They come into Sunday's match at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium as heavy favorites. It's still a tough task to win away matches in this league, as evidenced by Manchester City suffering a defeat at Old Trafford Saturday. History favors the home side, as the home team has won outright in five straight meetings between these teams. A draw would be a decent result here for Arsenal, and I expect Spurs to at least salvage a point.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Over 2.5.

The Manchester Derby will feature two of the Premier League's highest scoring teams. Manchester City has scored a Premier League best 45 goals in 17 matches, while Manchester United has scored 15 times in their last six matches in all competitions. Eric Ten Hag finally has this team playing the attacking style we are familiar with from his time at Ajax. The last two meetings between these teams were high scoring. City winning both matches by a combined 10-4 margin. With injuries to their top two defenders, Manchester United may have an opportunity to avenge those losses. 

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on MCI.

After dropping points with a sloppy effort against Everton on New Years Eve, Manchester City will look to take maximum points against Chelsea at Stanford Bridge. Chelsea is not on good form, and their aging defense was exposed in a draw versus the bottom team in the Premier League (Nottingham Forrest) in their last match. Chelsea has dropped three straight versus City, and on the season City has score more than twice as many goals as the Blues.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Spurs.

Aston Villa has one of the worst away records in the Premier League, with one win in eight matches, and a goal differential of -11. Tottenham has won six of eight home matches with a goal differential of +10. I was particularly impressed with Spurs in their last match, trailing 2-0 at Brentford and then rallying to earn a 2-2 draw. Tottenham is 5-0 in their last five versus Aston Villa, and the most recent meeting was a 4-0 win.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on MUTD.

Ten Hag has Manchester United firing on all cylinders, they have battled their way into the Top 5 in the Premier League table. It's going to be a tough ask to finish in a Champions League spot, with Arsenal. Newcastle and City way out in front, and Liverpool and Spurs within a few points. Their first game back after the World Cup comes against Nottingham Forest, who own the Premier League's worst record in away matches. Forest is 0-2-5 with a -18 goal differential in away matches this season. Their most recent away match in the Premier League was a 5-0 loss at Arsenal. They might be looking at another blowout loss here at Old Trafford.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Over.

Lionel Messi is tied for the tournament lead with five goals, and three of those have come via penalty. Argentina has been awarded four penalties so far, tying the record. With one game to play, you have to think there is a good chance Messi gets another opportunity from the penalty spot. Argentina has scored two or more goals in five straight matches, while France has scored two or more in four of their last five. I don't think either team is going to post a clean sheet here, and 2-1 seems like the most likely final score.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Under.

MorocCo is the Cinderella story of the 2022 World Cup. Heading into the Semi Final they have only conceded one goal, and it was an own goal in a 2-1 win over Canada. Their impressive run includes clean sheets against Spain, Belgium, Portugal and Croatia. Surely their strategy will be to stifle France, and they would be more than content to extend this game to extra time and try to win on penalties. I think the most likely scores are 0-0,1-0,1-1, or 2-0.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Over.

There is no shortage of talent between these two teams. England has scored a dozen goals in four games at the tournament, while France has scored nine goals in four matches. Both teams have scored in three of the last four head to head meetings, and the most recent international friendly was a 3-2 win for France back in 2017. An early goal could light this game on fire.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Netherlands.

Lionel Messi has scored three goals in four games at this World Cup, and at the age of 35 some consider him the G.O.A.T. He did miss a penalty against Poland, and overall he's seen more than his share of disappointment at the World Cup throughout his career. Argentina will be a huge favorite against Netherlands, despite the fact that the Dutch are undefeated in 11 World Cups matches under manager Louis Van Gaal. Netherlands 3-1 win over USA was far more impressive than Argentina's 2-1 win over Australia. The Dutch have perhaps the best defense of any squad at the World Cup, with Virgin Van Djik widely considered the best in the world. I think the bookmakers have the wrong team favored here, Holland has a younger, more talented group of stars and a superior coach

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Over.

Portugal will be a favorite in their knockout round match versus Switzerland, and I expect to see both teams score here. Portugal has plenty of offensive talent, and it was on display in the Group Stages scoring six goals in three matches. Switzerland also showed offensive prowess in a 3-2 win over Serbia in their final match of the first round. These two teams have scored a combined 10 goals in the last three head to head meetings. I can't see either of these teams posting a clean sheet.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Over.

We haven't seen Brazil really play an aggressive brand of football yet at this World Cup. After beating Serbia 2-0, they won 1-0 over Switzerland with a late goal. Already having locked up first in the group, they lost 1-0 to Cameroon in the last game of the Group Stages. Expect a different story here against a Korean team that has scored four goals in their last two games. Here in the knockout round nobody is playing for a draw. Expect Brazil to get a goal in the first half, and all hell might break loose after that. These teams have gone over in four of their last five meetings.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on England.

This England team has been to the Quarterfinals at the last World Cup, and followed that up with an appearance in the Finals at Euro2020. The opened the tournament with a 6-2 win over Irah, and aside from a scoreless draw versus USMNT, they have looked like maybe the best team at the tournament. Senegal finished second in Group A with wins over Qatar and Ecuador, but lost 2-0 to Netherlands. What's alarming for Senegal is they have no clean sheets. I think it's asking too much of the Senegal defense to keep this mighty England attack at bay.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on the Netherlands.

The USMNT has been impressive here at the World Cup, particularly in their scoreless draw against England. They caught England in a let down spot, and the draw was actually a result that both teams were content with at the time. It's the knockout round now, and the football giants aren't playing for draws anymore. Holland has the best defender in the world in Virgil Van Djik, and they have conceded just one goal so far. They have not been held scoreless in any of their last 11 matches, here at the World Cup and in qualifying.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Over. 

We saw three of the four games at the World Cup yesterday go over the total, which should come as no surprise considering that in the final match of the Group Stages certain teams are forced to throw caution to the wind as they need to win in order to qualify. Unlike the first two matches when they are content to play for a draw, they need to push, take chances and go for the win. Then you have other teams that have already qualified (Brazil) who will rest starters and don't necessarily need a result. Brazil's backups are more than capable of putting a ball or two in the net, and that's especially true against a Cameroon squad that rarely posts a clean sheet. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Mexico.

The last time that Mexico failed to advance from the Group Stages at the World Cup it was 1978, They have made the Round of 16 in eight consecutive tournaments, and they face a must win here against Saudi Arabia if they intend to keep that streak alive. Saudi Arabia suffered a let down after their upset win over Argentina, losing their second match 2-0 to Poland. If Argentina defeats Poland and Mexico defeats Saudi Arabia, then goal differential comes into play. A win for Poland would put Mexico in control of it's own destiny.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

Ecuador only needs a draw to punch their ticket to the the knockout round at the World Cup. They face Senegal in their final match of the Group Stages, and Senegal needs a win. Ecuador has played to a draw in four of their last five matches in all competitions, and in eight of their last 11. They have also posted a clean sheet in seven of their last eight matches, with the exception being a 1-1 draw versus Netherlands. We can expect a tight defensive battle here, and I expect a final score of 1-1 or 0-0.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on SUI.

So far in the World Cup, teams that have won by two or more in their first match, haven't done as well in their next match. Netherlands, Spain and England all settled for a draw in their second match. France won 4-1 in their opening match versus Australia, and then they beat Denmark 2-1 in their next match. Brazil will not have their leading scorer Neymar for the remainder of the Group Stages. The Swiss will likely be playing for a draw here, something they have successfully achieved in two of their last four matches versus Brazil. The Swiss have played nine matches at the World Cup since 2014, and only one of those nine matches resulted in a loss by more than one goal.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Under.

Despite the fact that Lewandowski is one of the top goalscorers of his generation, Poland does not score a lot of goals in international play. In fact the under is 5-0 in their last five matches. With Poland off an 0-0 draw versus Mexico, and Saudi Arabia bagging two points with a win over Argentina, a draw here would be a suitable result for both teams. I expect a cautious approach, with neither team wanting to concede the first goal. Saudi Arabia had gone under in four straight prior to the match versus Argentina.

GL,

Jesse Schule.

This is a 4* play on England.

As impressive as USA was in the first half of their match versus Wales, they showed a serious lack of discipline and it cost them in the second half. This is likely to be a far more serious issue against and England team that is vastly superior as far as talent and pace. If the Americans play the same style here they are likely to concede a penalty and or go down to 10 men. If they are less aggressive because of all the players that are already on one yellow card, they will be punished by the potent English attack. Pick your poison, the USA are simply over-matched.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on Senegal. 

Both these teams lost their opening matches, but in much different circumstances. The Africans pushed Holland to the brink, and deserved a far better result. Qatar become the first Host Nation in the history of the World Cup to lose their opening match, and they looked completely outclassed. Playing for a draw won't be an option for Senegal, they need to get maximum points from this match if they want to stay alive in the tournament. Qatar should be trying to save face, and would do well to avoid embarrassment. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Brazil.

Serbia was knocked out of the Group Stages of the 2018 World Cup when they lost 2-0 to Brazil. This year's Brazil team looks perhaps even stronger than the side they fielded four years ago. They have won seven straight in all competitions, outscoring opponents a combined 26-2. There are no easy matches in the World Cup, and we witnessed a huge upset when Saudi Arabia defeated Argentina 2-1 on Tuesday. That said, this will likely prove to be the exception, rather than the rule.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on Over.

The Canadians are minnows of international football, but they might surprise some at this World Cup. Keep in mind they finished ahead of Mexico and USA in CONCACAF World Cup Qualifying. They have scored 11 goals in their last six matches in all competitions, including a 2-1 win over Japan in their last match. They are up against European powerhouse Belgium, who has some of the most talented attacking players in Europe. Kevin De Bruyne might still be the best midfielder in the world, and Romelu Lukaku scores goals in his sleep. The Belgians weakness is their aging defense, and that should keep the door open for Canada. Expect both teams to score and the total to go over.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Costa Rica. 

At first glance it looks like this is a mismatch, but Costa Rica has thrived as an underdog at the World Cup. In 2014 they finished first in a Group that had been named the Group of Death, edging out England, Italy and Uruguay. They didn't make it out of the Group Stages in 2018, but they didn't lose a match by more than two goals either. Spain should be the favorite here, but this price seems far too high. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on France.

No Benzema... no need to panic for France. The defending champions have depth at every position. Australia did not impress in World Cup Qualifying matches. They had one win in their last five matches, and lost to Saudi Arabia and Japan. Their leading scorer Harry Souttar plays in England, not in the Premier League but at Stoke City in the League Championship. France won their last three World Cup Qaulifying matches by a combined score of 12-0.

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Wales +0.5. 

The United States has not done anything in recent qualifying matches to justify being favored here in their World Cup opener versus Wales. They scored just one goal, while going 0-2-1 in their last three matches. The one goal came against El Salvador, and they failed to score in a loss to Japan and a 0-0 draw versus Saudi Arabia. Wales is winless in their last three qualifying matches, but they played European superpowers Netherlands and Belgium twice. It should be considered encouraging that Wales scored in four of their last five matches, and during that span they didn't lose a match by more than one goal. I fancy Wales to get at least a draw here. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Netherlands.

This Netherlands team has had it's fair share of disappointment at major international tournaments. History tells us that they normally get off to a good start, but fade sooner than perhaps they should. They won all three matches in the Group Stages at the European Championships, by a combined score of 8-2. In their most recent World Cup appearances (2014), they won all three matches during the Group Stages by a combined score of 9-3. They catch a break here against Senegal, as Sadio Mane has been ruled out for the tournament. It will be difficult for Senegal to overcome the loss of their leading scorer and team leader.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

Manchester United sits fifth in the Premier League table, and they will host Fulham on Sunday. It may surprise some that Fulham has actually scored five more goals this season than Manchester United. They have also conceded five more goals. These teams have a history of scoring goals when they face each other. The over is 4-1 in the last five meetings. Fulham has gone over the total in four of it's last five matches in all competitions.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Sevilla.

While Manchester City is the superior team playing at home, the line here is grossly inflated when you factor in the motivation for the two clubs. Pep Guardiola will rest his starters, and let the youngsters take the reigns here as City has already clinched top spot in the group. Sevilla needs a win to qualify, and should field their best squad. The last time they played at the Etihad they lost 2-1, and I wouldn't be surprised if that is the final score in this game.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Rangers.

In a meaningless game at the end of the group stages, I expect a better effort from the Rangers in front of a home crowd. Rangers are winless in the group stages so far, and neither of these teams has any opportunity to advance. A win at home on their way out of the competition would offer some consolation for the fans. Rangers are 6-0-1 at home in their domestic league, with a +18 goal differential. In Champions League qualifiers they were 1-0-1 with a +3 goal differential. Ajax has nothing to gain here in Scotland, and it would be surprising if they didn't rest some key players.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on MUTD. 

Erik Ten Hag has Manchester United trending in the right direction. They are undefeated in their last five matches in all competitions, and they have posted clean sheets in all but one of those games. The only exception being a 1-1 draw versus Chelsea, with the Blues scoring on a late penalty at Stamford Bridge. They welcome West Ham United to Old Trafford, and the Hammers are 1-1-4 in away matches this season. West Ham has lost three of their last four visits to Old Trafford. The home side should get maximum points here in this contest. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Liverpool.

It was a poor start to the season for Liverpool, but Jorgen Klopp and the boys appear to have found their stride. They are coming off a 3-0 win over Ajax in the Champions League, and they are undefeated at Anfield with a +12 goal differential in six matches. Leeds on the other hand are ready to sack their manager. They are facing relegation, and they are winless in away matches this season. Their last game at Anfield was a 6-0 loss in February.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Ajax.

Liverpool is coming off a loss to Nottingham Forest in the Premier League, and they are destined to finish second in their group in the Champions League. There won't be anything to gain here for either team in an away match at Ajax. The Dutch side is unbeaten in five home matches in the Dutch league, with a goal differential of +20 (yes in five matches). When Ajax played at Anfield. Liverpool was fortunate to escape with a 2-1 win after scoring the game winner in the 89th minute. They have since added more players to their injury list. A draw should suit Jurgen Klopp just fine here, as he won't have his best squad available.

GL,

Jesse

This is a 4* play on Dortmund.

Manchester City sits 1st in Group G, and they will travel to Germany to play 2nd place Dortmund on Tuesday. Manchester City won the first leg by a score of 2-1, on a late goal from Erling Haaland. Man City is 3-1-1 in five matches versus Dortmund dating back to 2016, and all three wins came by the exact same score (2-1). A win here would clinch the group for City, but a draw would likely also do the trick. Dortmund is 4-1-1 in six home matches in the Bundelsiga, which includes a 2-2 draw versus Bayern Munich. Don't be surprised if this game ends in a draw.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on MUTD +0.5.

Things are starting to take shape for Erik Ten Hag at Manchester United, the Red Devils are 4-0-1 in their last five matches in all competitions. They face a tough test here at Stamford Bridge, as Chelsea is also 4-0-1 in their last five matches. History tells us that this game is likely to be close. These teams have played to a draw in each of the last four meetings. Don't be surprised if we see a fifth straight draw in this series.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* on Liverpool. 

So Manchester City looks like an unstoppable force this season, while Liverpool has had a poor start in the Premier League. This has the Citizens pegged as heavy favorites heading to Anfield on Saturday, in a game where a draw would probably suit them just fine. In fact the last two times these teams met in the Premier League the result was a draw. Liverpool also knocked City out of the FA Cup and won the Community Shield versus City. While Pep Guardiola may have the superior squad this season, playing at Anfield is a daunting task. It's been five and a half years since Liverpool lost at home in front of their fans in a Premier League match. Manchester City hasn't won at Anfield since 2003, and that is their only win in 20 visits to Liverpool all time (modern era). 

GL, 

Jesse Schule 

This is a 2* play on Napoli.

The home side is on a tear so far this season, sitting top of the table in Series A, and undefeated in Champions League play. Ajax on the other hand has really dropped off since the departure of Ten Hag, and many of their top players. They lost 6-1 at home to Napoli in the first leg of this tie, and we should expect another easy win for the Italians here in Napoli.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Bayern.

Robert Lewandowski left Bayern in the off-season to join Barcelona, and returns to face his former club in a Champions League match in Munich on Tuesday. While he's off and running with his new club, his replacements at Bayern are also making their mark. Jamal Musiala leads the team in scoring with four goals in five matches, while Sadio Mane has scored three times in six matches. These teams have played three times over the last seven years, Bayern has won all three of those matches by a combined score of 14-2. As good as Barcelona looks, this is a tough spot and they will do well just to keep the game close.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

I said this about Kansas City a few weeks ago: "Kansas City sits dead last in the MLS standings, but after picking up William Agada and Erick Thommy in the mid season transfer market, they are not the same squad. They have scored 11 goals in their last three matches, winning two of those games" They since won at home versus San Jose, and then earned a 2-2 draw on the road at LAFC. It would appear that the betting markets haven't properly accounted for the new additions to this team. Both these teams have gone over in four of their last five matches, and three of the last four head to head meetings went over. 

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Over.

Austin F.C. is the second highest scoring team in MLS behind LAFC. After upsetting LAFC they suffered a let down in their next game losing 2-1 at home to Portland. They look to get back on track here in Nashville, and I like both teams to score in a high scoring match here. Nashville has one of the worst home records in MLS, despite scoring 25 goals in 15 matches. Austin F.C. has the second best away record in MLS, scoring 23 goals in 14 matches. The over is a combined 10-0 in these teams last 10 matches combined.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Liverpool.

After a lackluster start to the season Liverpool scored nine times in a 9-0 win over Bournemouth over the weekend. They host Newcastle here on Wednesday, and this looks like a tough spot for the Magpies. Newcastle could be without six starting players for this match, and that includes stars Allan Saint-Maximin and Callum Wilson. The last visit to Anfield was a 3-1 loss for Newcastle, and a similar score should be expected here in this match.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on KC.

Kansas City sits dead last in the MLS standings, but after picking up William Agada and Erick Thommy in the mid season transfer market, they are not the same squad. They have scored 11 goals in their last three matches, winning two of those games. They host San Jose Saturday, and this appears to be a let down spot for the Earthquakes. San Jose is coming off a 2-1 home win over LAFC, but the Earthquakes have just one win in 13 away matches.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Liverpool.

Neither of these two clubs have started the season the way they have hoped, but the situation at Old Trafford is a real dumpster fire. There have even been rumors that this match could be postponed due to protests from fans calling for the American owners of the club to be ousted. Erik Ten Hag has made a move to sign defensive midfielder Casemiro, but he's not going to play in this match. It will be the same squad that allowed four goals to Brentford, and lost 2-1 at home to Brighton. Liverpool has won three straight Premier League matches versus United by a combined score of 13-2. Two of those wins came at Old Trafford. It goes from bad to worse for the Red Devils.

GL,

Jesse Schule