European Leagues

EPL: 3 matches we could see shock result this weekend

This weekend’s Premier League fixtures could see some shock results as Crystal Palace host champions Manchester City, Brighton take on Arsenal, and Tottenham Hotspur face Nottingham Forest.

Crystal Palace vs Man City – The Eagles have had a mixed season so far, but have the ability to cause problems for any team on their day. With Man City’s focus primarily on the UEFA Champions League quarter-final first-leg tie against Real Madrid on Tuesday, Palace could take advantage of any complacency and produce an upset. The likes of Jordan Ayew and Eberechi Eze could use their dribbling skills and strength to test City’s defence and potentially nick all three points or a draw. The kick-off time for the match is 12.30 pm.

Brighton vs Arsenal – Brighton have been a tough nut to crack at home, and Arsenal will have their work cut out for them against Roberto De Zerbi’s well-drilled side. Just like Manchester City, who will compete in the Champions League quarter-final on Tuesday, Arsenal also have a tough match against Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich on Tuesday night at Emirates Stadium. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta could be tempted to rest some key players against Brighton due to the upcoming clash against Bayern Munich and that could put the Gunners in trouble. The encounter could go either way in what could be a close affair. The kick-off time for the match is 5.30 pm.

Tottenham vs Nottingham Forest – Nottingham head to this match after beating Fulham 3-1 in their last encounter. They will hope to build on that result when they face Tottenham on Sunday evening in an away clash.
They can cause an upset against a Spurs side who have been inconsistent lately, having played 1-1 against West Ham United in their last game. Nottingham possess several players who have experience of playing in the top flight and could produce a shock result at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Spurs will be relying on the likes of captain Son Heung-min and James Maddison to provide the goals, but Nottingham’s defence will be looking to keep them quiet.

It remains to be seen what will happen in these matches, but one thing is for sure – the weekend’s Premier League fixtures could provide plenty of surprises. Football fans should buckle up for what could prove to be a very exciting round of matches.

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

Raphael Onyedika reflects on first UCL Goal

Club Brugge midfielder Raphael Onyedika expressed his excitement after scoring his first-ever UEFA Champions League goal against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday night.

Despite Brugge’s 3-1 loss, Onyedika couldn’t hide his pride in the achievement. “I don’t know how to put it, but it’s an amazing feeling to score my first goal in City’s stadium. I’m so proud,” the Nigeria international told Flashcore.com.

Onyedika acknowledged that while Brugge took the lead, they struggled after conceding. “We knew it would be difficult after we got the first goal; we were a bit sloppy. And when we conceded the first goal, they had more momentum and energy, so it was much more difficult for us because of our mistakes.”

The goal will surely be a memorable moment for the young midfielder as he continues his Champions League journey.

Premier League

David Raya doubtful for Arsenal’s clash against Manchester City

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has revealed that goalkeeper David Raya may miss the Gunners’ crucial Premier League fixture against Manchester City on Sunday.

Raya was absent from Arsenal’s 2-1 victory over Girona in the Champions League, with Neto stepping in for his debut after joining on a season-long loan from Bournemouth.

Although Neto conceded the opening goal to Arnaut Danjuma in the 28th minute, Arsenal responded with Jorginho’s penalty and a spectacular goal by rising star Ethan Nwaneri.

Arteta did not provide specific details on Raya’s injury but noted, “He certainly could not play, and he’s injured, and that’s it. We’ll see how it improves.”

When asked whether Neto could continue in Raya’s absence, Arteta expressed confidence in the experienced goalkeeper, stating, “That’s why he’s here, to do that job… I’m very happy that he played and we won again.”

Arsenal will be hoping Raya recovers in time for the vital clash as they look to maintain their strong position in the league.

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

Tella celebrates first Champions League goal in Bayer Leverkusen win

Bayer Leverkusen winger Nathan Tella has joyfully celebrated his first-ever UEFA Champions League goal after netting in his team’s 2-0 triumph over Sparta Prague on Wednesday night.

The Nigeria international struck in the 64th minute, sealing the victory and helping Leverkusen advance to the Round of 16. The achievement marks a significant milestone for the former Burnley star, who was playing in England’s second-tier league just two years ago.

Taking to social media after the match, Tella shared his excitement with a heartfelt message accompanied by a photo from the game:

“Dreams come true,” he wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso praised Tella’s performance as the team comfortably secured their place in the next stage of Europe’s elite competition. Tella’s rapid rise continues to inspire fans and players alike as he establishes himself on the European football stage.