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Football

Olympic Football | Paris 2024: Everything You Need To Know

Paris 2024 Olympic Football: Everything You Need To Know

Paris 2024 Olympic Football | GSB

Paris 2024 Olympic Football is just around the corner! In Olympia, Greece, the torch-lighting ceremony marked the official beginning of the countdown to this major event in sport. This summer, after being postponed for three years from Tokyo 2020 Olympics, athletes will gather in France. The opening ceremony will take place on July 26th, while its closure is on August 11th.

 

Olympic Football: A Favorite among Supporters

Only two exceptions have occurred throughout history when it comes to football being one of the most sought-after sports at the Olympics (Athens 1896 and Los Angeles 1932). Brazil is expected to be a strong medal contender again, as they have won gold twice consecutively and Canada holds their last title in women’s category.


Your Guide to Olympic Football: Dates, Stadiums, Teams & More!

Dates and Stadiums:

The Olympic Football tournaments begin on July 24th and conclude with finals on August 10th. Seven magnificent stadiums across various French cities will host the matches:

  • Parc des Princes in Paris (Final venue)
  • Stade Geoffroy-Guichard in Saint-Etienne
  • Stade de la Beaujoire in Nice
  • Stade de Bordeaux in Bordeaux
  • Stade de Lyon in Lyon
  • Marseille Velodrome

 

Qualified Teams, Tournament Format & Groups:

Several teams have already secured their spot in Paris, including France, Spain, and New Zealand. The groups have also been drawn, creating exciting matchups. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Men’s Qualified Teams (10 out of 16): France, United States, Dominican Republic, Israel, Spain, Ukraine, Egypt, Mali, Morocco, New Zealand
  • Remaining Qualifiers: Three teams from Asia Cup U23 competition through Asian Football Confederation (AFC). One team from a play-off between AFC and CAF. Two teams from top ranks of South American pre-Olympic tournament.

This format resembles that of a standard club soccer tournament; four groups of four teams each. The best two teams from each group move forward into knockout stages, which include quarterfinals, semifinals, third-place playoff and grand finale.

Here’s a glimpse at the already drawn groups:

  • Group A: France, United States, AFC-CAF Play-off Winner, New Zealand
  • Group B: Argentina, Morocco, AFC Team 3, Ukraine
  • Group C: AFC Team 2, Spain, Egypt, Dominican Republic
  • Group D: AFC Team 1, Paraguay, Mali, Israel

 

Potential Stars and Surprises:

Fans are eagerly waiting for rosters announcements for Paris’ Olympic Games (Paris 2024). All squads will comprise of eighteen players; minimum fifteen should be born after January 1st, 2001. Nevertheless there’s an exception coaches can integrate upto three older players each. This has sparked speculation and dreams of seeing legendary players like Lionel Messi or France’s idol Kylian Mbappé grace the Olympic stage.

Another player generating buzz for the French attack is Karim Benzema. Currently playing for Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, Benzema has a less demanding schedule compared to European-based players.


Stay Tuned for More Olympic Football Updates!

An unforgettable sight awaits us at Paris’ final: a true spectacle. With exceptional talents, thrilling contests and iconic venues this is an event every lover of football cannot afford to miss out on. Keep watching out for teams’ choice and players’ involvement!


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Football

Unveiling the Kings: CAF Reveals Top 10 African Football Leagues

Unveiling the Kings: CAF Reveals Top 10 African Football Leagues

Top 10 CAF Leagues | GSB

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has just revealed the continent’s elite leagues! While the 2023/2024 interclub competitions heat up, this ranking sheds light on the championships consistently producing powerhouse teams.

 

North Africa Reigns Supreme

As anticipated, North African nations claim the top spots. Egypt clinches the number one position thanks to its clubs’ dominant performances on the continental stage in recent seasons.

Morocco follows closely, boasting an impressive four continental titles – a combination of Champions League and Confederation Cup wins – over the past four years.

Algeria takes the bronze medal position, proudly celebrating USM Alger’s historic CAF Super Cup victory last season.

 

A Southern Surge

A major surprise emerges with South Africa’s meteoric rise to fourth place. This marks the first sub-Saharan African league to crack the top circle, just edging out Tunisia for the coveted position.

 

Notable Absentees

Despite recent continental success stories, established powerhouses like Mali, Guinea, Cameroon, and Senegal are conspicuously absent from the CAF’s Top 10.

 

The CAF Top 10: A League of Champions

See below the official CAF ranking of Africa’s best football leagues, based on club results from the past five seasons of the African Champions League and CAF Cup:

  1. Egypt (Premier League): 180 pts
  2. Morocco (Botola): 172.5 points
  3. Algeria (Ligue 1): 134 pts
  4. South Africa (PSL): 114 pts
  5. Tunisia (League 1): 101 pts
  6. Tanzania (Ligi Kuu): 56.5 pts
  7. RD Congo (Linafoot): 54 pts
  8. Angola (Girabola): 41.5 pts
  9. Sudan (PL): 39 pts
  10. Côte d’Ivoire (Ligue 1): 29 pts

The Final Whistle

The CAF rankings paint a fascinating picture of African football’s landscape. While North Africa holds strong, South Africa’s rise signals, a potential shift in power. Will established giants return to the top? Who will be the next surprise contender?

Want to learn more about African football’s rising stars and established giants? Stay tuned for further analysis and insights!

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Football

EKITANGAZA KYA WEEKEND TIPS AND PREDICTIONS (10th May 2024)

Predictions

EKITANGAZA KYA WEEKEND TIPS AND PREDICTIONS (10th May 2024)

1. Alaves Vs Girona – Yes&O1.5 (Friday)

Alaves are currently 11th placed, Girona occupy the 2nd spot on the log and have already qualified for Champions League football. Both sides have won their last 3 league fixtures and basing on that, I see each side at least scoring a goal today to give us a minimum of 2 goals in this fixture.

2. Frosinone Vs Inter Milan – 1X (Friday)

Frosinone are currently 16th placed with just 2 points above relegation as they host league winners Inter Milan at Stadio Benito Stirpe in Frosinone. I see the hosts putting up a very strong resistance to try avoid losing the 3 points as a way of increasing their chances of surviving in the Italian top tier. I do not think Inter Milan will put a lot of pressure on the hosts since they already accomplished their target this season. Tajja kukafilako akasajja tukawe double chance yewaka.

3. Fulham Vs Man City – 2&O2.5 (Saturday)

In our Supa Saturday this week, at Craven Cottage Fulham host Title contenders Man City. Can Fulham stop them? I do not think so. Man City cannot bare to lose any points now against a club they better with a pedigree. Away win and over is the topic in this game.

4. Nottingham Vs Chelsea – 2 (Saturday)

Chelsea are still chasing for Europa conference football next season and if they win all their remaining 3 matches, this may yield positively. Chelsea are just 2 points behind Newcastle and incase of any fumbling by the Magpies, the Blues will be into European football next season. I anticipate a Chelsea win with Over 1.5 goals in the entire game.

5. Mainz Vs Dortmund – 1X (Saturday)

Mainz are fighting relegation as they sit 16thon the log. They have not lost a game in their last 5 league fixtures. Dortmund qualified for UCL final in mid-week and have already qualified for Champions league next season so I do not see them pushing harder in this fixture as a way of avoiding injuries. They will rest crucial players.

6. Napoli Vs Bologna – Yes (Saturday)

With 3 games to go, Napoli’s hopes of qualifying for Champions League next season reduced by 99% as they are short by 9 points to fit in the 5th spot. However, a push for a win will keep their hopes of Europa league qualification alive. A Win for Bologna will increase their chances of UCL qualification as they currently sit 4th on the log. I see both sides scoring at least a goal in this fixture.

7. Newcastle Vs Brighton – 1 (Saturday)

Newcastle host Brighton at St. James’ Park as their push for qualifying for European football next season continues. They currently occupy 6th spot with 4 points behind Tottenham who have lost all their last 4 games. I see Newcastle pushing for a win to increase their chances of qualification for Europa league. Newcastle ali waka tumuwe ajja kutegula.

8. Man United Vs Arsenal – 2 (Sunday)

Arsenal are currently leading the league as they continue to push for the title. Man United are really in poor form and I do not expect them to pause a lot of resistance. Let us go all the way for Arsenal Yabantu.

9. Bochum Vs Bayer Leverkusen – 2&O1.5 (Sunday)

Bayer Leverkusen are still the only unbeaten club in the European top 5 leagues and I see them pushing this target to end the season unbeaten in the Bundesliga after winning their 1st ever league title. Bayer Leverkusen will win with a minimum of 2 goals in the entire game.

10. Real Betis Vs Almeria -1 (Sunday)

Real Betis are currently 7th placed with just 2 points out of Europa League spots. A win will give Betis more chances of qualifying if at all Real Sociedad in 6th spot fumbles and loses against Barcelona in their next fixture. Almeria are already relegated, I do not see them posing any strong resistance away from home.

~GOOD LUCK~

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Football

Unbreakable Champions: Unveiling the Longest Unbeaten Streaks in European Football

Unbreakable Champions: Unveiling the Longest Unbeaten Streaks in European Football

Europe's Unbeaten Football Teams | GSB

Unbreakable Champions: Unveiling the Longest Unbeaten Streaks in European Football

In the world of football, victory reigns supreme. However, many coaches believe the true testament to greatness lies in avoiding defeat. Winning and not losing, while seemingly similar, expose contrasting philosophies under the microscope. Throughout history, especially recent years, numerous clubs have embarked on remarkable unbeaten runs. Let’s delve into Europe’s current undefeated teams and revisit the most formidable unbeaten records etched in recent seasons.

Legendary Runs: Europe’s Unbeatable Teams

As of April, only one European team remains undefeated: Bayer Leverkusen. The German powerhouse, nicknamed “Bayer Neverlusen” (German for “Never Lose Bayer”), has defied defeat across the Bundesliga, German Cup, and Europa League. Xabi Alonso’s squad continues to rewrite history, boasting a phenomenal 45-game unbeaten streak.

The Best Unbeaten Streaks in European Football: Who Holds the Record?

The past two decades have witnessed several European teams weave extraordinary unbeaten spells. Three clubs (one achieving it thrice) have reached the staggering feat of 50 games unbeaten: FC Porto, Celtic FC, and Bayern Munich.

The Undisputed Kings: FC Porto’s Record-Breaking Run

FC Porto have the longest unbeaten record in Europe, having gone without defeat in 58 consecutive matches from October 2020 to April 2022.  This dominance unfolded primarily within the Portuguese Championship. Interestingly, Porto wasn’t new to such heroics, having enjoyed unbeaten stretches between 2010 and 2013.

Top 5 Unbeaten Teams in European Football

  1. FC Porto: 58 consecutive matches (October 2020 – April 2022)
  2. Celtic FC: 56 consecutive matches (May 2016 – December 2017)
  3. FC Porto: 55 consecutive matches (March 2010 – January 2012)
  4. Bayern Munich: 53 consecutive matches (November 2012 – March 2014)
  5. FC Porto: 53 consecutive matches (February 2012 – November 2013)

The Invincible Stripes: Italy’s Unbeaten Record Holder

Despite falling short of a continental best, Italy can boast an invincible Serie A champion in Antonio Conte’s Juventus. In fact, the Bianconeri went without defeat for 49 games from May 2011 to October 2012 — until they were beaten by Andrea Stramaccioni’s Inter Milan — a run that may never be matched in a league as brutally demanding as Italy’s. So dominant were Juve over this spell that they accumulated an almost unbelievable 102 points the following campaign.

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Football

2025 FIFA Club World Cup: Unequal Prize Money Sparks Outrage for African Teams

2025 FIFA Club World Cup: Unequal Prize Money Sparks Outrage for African Teams

Club World Cup Controversy | GSB

The FIFA Club World Cup will take place in the United States next year, with the best club teams from around the world competing. However, there is a dark shadow hanging over this excitement for representatives of Africa who have to face the fact that they will be awarded less prize money than their European or South American counterparts.

 

Unequal Prize Money: A Slap in the Face to African Football

This Disparity in Prize Money is a slap in the face to African football. According to Al Ahly TV, FIFA plans to distribute bonuses based on factors like continent and budget, essentially shortchanging African clubs. This lack of respect for African football is another disappointing move by FIFA, highlighting a persistent bias.

The limited financial reward creates a demotivating environment for African teams. While European and South American giants compete for substantial prizes, African clubs are left fighting for scraps. This disparity discourages investment and weakens the overall competitiveness of African football on the global stage.

 

Road to the USA: How African Teams Can Qualify for the 2025 Club World Cup

Egypt’s Al-Ahly and Morocco’s Wydad Casablanca have already clinched two places. CAF Champions League semi-finals will be contested by Espérance de Tunis, Mamelodi Sundowns and TP Mazembe for the remaining two slots.

The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup: A Tournament Reimagined

FIFA have announced a major reform, which has seen the creation of a new event, called Club World Cup in 2025. This tournament will be held every four years just like its national team counterpart – the World Cup – and is expected to become one of highlights in football calendar. The first ever edition will take place in United States thereby bringing new perspectives and anticipations within football community.

The Tournament Dynamics and Team Participation

As for its structure, it closely follows that of traditional world cups where there are eight groups comprising four teams each. Winners from each group then proceed to knockout stage where they shall vie until only one remaining club becomes announced as global champions.

The participating teams will total 32, distributed as follows:

  • Europe: 12 teams
  • South America: 6 teams
  • Asia: 4 teams
  • Africa: 4 teams
  • Central and North America: 4 teams
  • Oceania: 1 team
  • Host Nation: 1 team
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Football

EKITANGAZA KYA WEEKEND TIPS (3rd May)

Predictions

EKITANGAZA KYA WEEKEND TIPS & PREDICTIONS 3RD, 4TH & 5TH MAY 2024

1. Luton Vs Everton – Yes (Friday)

Everton were chopped off 8 points due to federation decision but have really persevered and worked hard to remain in the league this season. Everton are currently 11 points away from relegation with 3 games to go. Luton are 18th placed and will ty hard to win this game to keep themselves in the league. I anticipate an end to end game and each side will at least score a goal.

2. Getafe Vs Ath. Bilbao – 1X (Friday)

With 5 games to go, Bilbao are still chasing for Champions League football as they sit 6 points behind 4th placed Atletico Madrid. It will be a tight one as Getafe is also still pushing for Europa Conference football next season. I do not see Getafe losing at home. 5/5 of their last H2H meetings have ended in draws. 

3. Arsenal Vs Bournemouth – 1 (Saturday)

Arsenal are still leading the league as City still have a game in hand. The Gunners will try to extend their lead to 4 points prior to Man City’s game. Bournemouth have lost 4/4 of their last meetings with Arsenal.

4. Real Madrid Vs Cadiz – 1 (Saturday)

Real Madrid are just few wins away from being confirmed 2023/24 Spanish La Liga Champions as they host 18th placed Cadiz at the Santiago Bernabeu. Madrid have won all their last 3 H2H meetings with Cadiz and I anticipate the same thing today.

5. Girona Vs Barcelona – O2.5 (Saturday)

What are game of football as 2 points separate the two sides! Barcelona are 2nd placed at 73 points and Girona occupy the 3rd spot at 71 points. Girona defeated Barcelona in a 4:2 thriller at Camp Nou so I expect Barcelona to seek vengeance in today’s action as Girona will want a win to occupy the 2nd spot. Goal zijja kunnywa

6. Corinthians Vs Fortaleza – U2.5 (Saturday)

The Brazilian top tier has just returned with just 4 games played and the 2 sides meeting today occupy the bottom half of the log. This evidently shows they have not yet gained their goal scoring forms. Each of the 2 sides have only attained one Over 2.5 from the 1st 3 games. 4/5 of their last H2H meetings have seen U2.5 goals.

7. Ipswich Vs Huddersfield – 1&O1.5 (Saturday)

Ipswich currently occupy the 2nd spot on the English 2nd tier log and still push for their return to the famous English Premier League. The hosts do not want to go through play offs so will use all possible means to Win this fixture to secure their 2nd spot. I also see a minimum of 2 goals in this fixture.

8. Brann Vs Rosenborg – O2.5 (Saturday)

At Brann Stadion, 3rd placed Brann host 5th placed Rosenborg as the Norwegian Eliteserien get to match day 7. Whenever a serious punter comes across this fixture, the 1st thing they think of is Over 2.5 goals. Let’s go for more goals in this fixture as both sides are so attack minded and defend less. 5/6 of their last H2H meetings saw O2.5 goals.

9. Chelsea Vs West Ham – Yes (Sunday)

At Stamford Bridge here comes another London Derby as Chelsea host West Ham. I anticipate an end to end game as both sides still have hopes of Europa League football next season. 4/5 of their last H2H meetings have seen both teams score a goal.

10. Liverpool Vs Tottenham – Yes&O2.5 (Sunday)

Liverpool lost their title charge after drawing against West Ham last week and here comes Tottenham at Anfield. I anticipate an end to end game with both sides pushing for a win. Both teams will score and we shall see a minimum of 3 goals. 7/7 of their last H2H meetings saw both teams score a goal and 6/7 of these made over 2.5 goals.

“Own the remote control of your Bet slip, CASH OUT at Any Time with GSB UGANDA”

~GOOD LUCK~  

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Football

Red Cards and Beyond: The Most Shocking Football Disqualifications

Red Cards and Beyond: The Most Shocking Football Disqualifications

Red Cards and Beyond: The Most Shocking Football Disqualifications | GSB

Reality can be quite hard in football. A yellow card may be a small irritation, but it is enough to make a referee show you the red card. And there are some red cards that have become more infamous than others down the decades, leading to long suspensions and never-to-be-forgotten entries into football folklore. This article looks at some of the most stunning disqualifications in the history of this game, singling out those individuals who went too far and paid the price.

The Infamous “Maracanã Mayhem” and Rojas’ Lifetime Ban

During World Cup, qualifying in 1989 between Brazil and Chile, Chilean goalkeeper Roberto Rojas staged a remarkable act. He collapsed on the ground clutching his face, alleging he had been hit by an object thrown from the stands. Replays exposed it as a sham – there was no object. An inquiry later found that Rojas had cut himself with a razor blade concealed in his gloves. It was plain cheating and earned Rojas a life ban from FIFA, led to Chile’s expulsion from Italia 90 and resulted in them not being permitted to compete again until after USA 94.

Biting, Brawls, and Broken Noses: Other Disqualifications that Grabbed Headlines

Football has witnessed its fair share of on-field violence and misconduct. Here are some other notable disqualifications:

  • Héctor Robles (1 year): In 1993, the Chilean defender attacked a referee during a friendly match, leading to a year-long ban by UEFA.
  • João Pinto (6 months): At the 2002 World Cup, the Portuguese midfielder assaulted the referee, resulting in a six-month suspension (initially imposed as a harsher punishment but reduced for good behavior).
  • David Navarro (6 months): During a Champions League match, the Valencia defender instigated a brawl, breaking an opponent’s nose. He received a seven-month ban, ultimately reduced to six months after an appeal.
  • Diego Maradona (2 months): The legendary Argentine coach, known for his on-field theatrics, carried them over to the sidelines. A two-month suspension from all football activity followed for disrespectfully outburst about officials.
  • Diego Costa (8 games): Diego Costa’s fiery personality boiled over in 2019 when he verbally abused a referee during a match, resulting in an eight-match suspension.
  • Marco Materazzi (2 Months): The 2006 World Cup final saw Marco Materazzi punch an opponent in the tunnel, earning a two-month suspension.
  • Pepe (10 weeks): Pepe’s reputation for aggressive play reached a peak in 2009 when a brutal tackle and a headbutt earned him a 10-week ban.
  • Arda Turan (16 Weeks): Arda Turan’s return to Turkish football turned sour when he violently shoved a referee during a match, earning him a lengthy suspension.

From “King Eric” to “The Bite of Suarez”: Iconic Players, Shocking Disqualifications

Footballing giants haven’t been immune to heavy punishments. Two such cases stand out:

  • Eric Cantona (9 months): The “King” of Manchester United tarnished his legacy in 1995 with a shocking kung-fu kick aimed at a fan who had heckled him. It remains one of the lengthiest bans ever handed down to such an esteemed player.
  • Luis Suarez (9 games): The Uruguayan striker’s infamous bite on Giorgio Chiellini during the 2014 World Cup remains a controversial moment. Suarez was given a nine-match international ban as well as being suspended for four months from all activity relating to football and fined heavily.

These disqualifications demonstrate how seriously officials take field aggressiveness and misbehavior in this sport. They remind us that even the most talented can pay a high price for their actions, forever changing their careers and staining their reputations among people who love these games worldwide but know better than anyone why they must not tolerate such behaviors forever or anywhere else.

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Football

EKITANGAZA KYA WEEKEND TIPS (26th Aprill)

Predictions

EKITANGAZA KYA WEEKEND TIPS & PREDICTIONS 26TH, 27TH & 28TH APRIL

1.Real Sociedad Vs Real Madrid – Yes (Friday)

Real Madrid currently lead the league with 81 points, a difference of 11 points with 2nd placed Barcelona. Real Sociedad sits 6th on the log as they aspire for European football next season. What a game on our hands as both sides have not lost a game in their last 5 fixtures. Both clubs have scored at least a goal in their last 5 games in all competitions. I anticipate a goal from each side.

2.Mamelodi Sundowns Vs Esperance – U2.5 (Friday)

At Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria, Mamelod host Esperance in the 2nd leg of CAF Champions League Semi Finals. Mamelodi lost by one goal in the 1st leg so I expect them to push harder for a win today though I do not see so many goals. Expected a reserved game from the guests today who will try to defend and protect their 1st leg win.

3.West Ham Vs Liverpool – Yes (Saturday)

West Ham have lost ¾ of their last H2H games in all competitions and here comes a Liverpool side that lost their title hopes following their loss to Everton in mid-week. I anticipate an open game with plenty of goals since both sides have conceded a goal in their last 6 EPL fixtures. I at least see a goal from each side as all their last 3 EPL H2H meetings have seen both teams score.

4.Bayer Leverkusen Vs Stuttgart – O2.5 (Saturday)

Bayer Leverkusen are already crowned champions of the Germany Bundesliga but they are still protecting their unbeaten run in the top 5 European leagues. I anticipate an end to end game as Stuttgart still pushes for Champions League football next season so expect goals from both sides. A minimum of 3 goals will be scored, eyo sure deal.

5.Juventus Vs AC Milan – U2.5 (Saturday)

After losing to Inter in mid-week, AC Milan confirmed that the best they can achieve this season is finishing second. Inter were confirmed as Champions after their win against AC Milan in the Milan Derby so I do not expect more vibrancy in the top 3 upcoming fixtures. Juventus are also sloppy and do no create and convert goal scoring opportunities which has seen them draw in their last 2 league games. 5/5 of their last H2H meetings in Serie A have seen Under 2.5 goals.

6.Atl. Madrid Vs Athletic Bilbao – 1X & U2.5 (Saturday)

As Atletico Madrid try to secure their 4th spot following their UCL exit, I do not see them losing to Bilbao who are just 3 points behind them in 5th position. Playing at Wanda Metropolitano, Diego Simeone will control the damage following last weekend’s loss to Alaves to avoid back to back league losses. I see a draw or a home win with a very small margin. All their last 4 La Liga Head to Head meetings have seen under 2.5 goals.

7.Varazdin Vs D. Zagreb – 2 (Saturday)

D. Zagreb are currently 2nd placed with just 2 points behind log leaders Rijeka. Varazdin are 6th placed and have lost 4/5 of their last H2H meetings with D. Zagreb. At Gradski Stadion in Varazdin, the home side may pose some opposition but I see the guests winning basing on pedigree and squad quality. D. Zagreb have won all their last 7 games in all competitions.

8.Tottenham Vs Arsenal – O2.5 (Sunday)

It’s the North London Derby as Tottenham Host the Gunners. Can they stop Arsenal from their title charge? Big Question but stopping them would be the best thing to happen to Spurs this season. This Derby started way back in 1919 since Arsenal’s promotion to the first division. The rivalry started when Arsenal entered Highbury in North London which was Tottenham’s territory. I anticipate an end to end game with plenty of goals since both clubs want to end the season in the highest positions they can. 4/5 of their last head to head meetings have seen O2.5 goals and 3 of those meetings stretched to 4 goals. Tubawe Over tusilike.

9.Napoli Vs AS Roma – Total Corners O9.5 (Sunday)

At Stadio Diego Armando Maradona Stadium, 8th placed Napoli host 5th place AS Roma as the race for European spots continues. With 6 games to go, Napoli are still 6 points out of champion league positions and will still try to push through. Roma in 5th spot are currently qualifying following addition of a 5th team to represent Italian Serie A in UCL, so I see them pushing for a win to keep this spot secure. I anticipate and end to end game with both side questing for a win. Both sides use crosses so much in the final third which will easily results into many corner kicks. 3/5 of their last H2H meetings have seen a total of 10+ goals.

10.The Strongest Vs Universitario de Vinto – 1 (Sunday)

It’s the 2nd leg of the Bolivia Profesional Division Semifinal as The Strongest host Universitario at Estadio Hernando Siles in La Paz. The Strongest won the 1st leg away from home by a goal to nil. I see the hosts securing the Final spot with a win today. The strongest have defeated Universitario 4/5 times in their last H2H meetings.

~CASH OUT IF THINGS DON’T GO AS PLANNED~

~GOOD LUCK~

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Football

Bayer Leverkusen: From Neverkusen to Winnerkusen, A Century-Long Journey to Bundesliga Glory

Bayer Leverkusen: From Neverkusen to Winnerkusen, A Century-Long Journey to Bundesliga Glory

Bayer Leverkusen: From Neverkusen to Winnerkusen, A Century-Long Journey to Bundesliga Glory

After many unsuccessful attempts that earned them the nickname “Neverkusen,” Bayer Leverkusen finally won their first ever German league title and the season ended dramatically. In their penultimate match, Bayer Leverkusen defeated Werder Bremen 5-0 to secure the championship putting an end to Bayern Munich’s eleven-year reign. It was a momentous occasion that marked 120 years of sheer determination and resilience in order to break through the glass ceiling which had hindered it for so long.

 

A Century of Heartbreak and Hope

The club was established in 1904 by staff members working for a pharmaceutical company called Bayer hence its name. The history of Leverkusen FC has been comprised both of heartbreaks and hopes. Since 1979-80 when they first played in Bundesliga, even though they were not able to win the main prize despite finishing at second place on five occasions or third on six occasions. This series brought them the unofficial nickname “Vizekusen” (vice-champions) and later “Neverkusen”, which seemed like its fate.

The history of Leverkusen’s disappointment is summed up by 2001-2002 season. With stars like Jens Lehmann, Dimitar Berbatov, Zé Roberto and Michael Ballack all at his disposal, coach Klaus Toppmöller led a team that made it into three finals: Bundesliga; Champion League; DFB-Pokal. But those three finals turned out to be losses which resulted in a tag of being underachievers.

 

A New Era: The Rise of Winnerkusen

The turning point came in 2018 when Fernando Carro became president while Simon Rolfes became managing director. This side entered into a new era with Spanish boss Xabi Alonso as head coach coming on board in 2022. Leverkusen was transformed into a team that could not be written off due to this former midfield maestro’s winning mentality and tactical discipline.

Alonso’s impact was immediate. Despite taking over a team placed in 19th place, he guided them to a fifth-place finish and a Europa League semi-final appearance in his first season. However, Leverkusen’s campaign during 2023-24 became the ultimate show of domination. Bayer Leverkusen did not lose any match throughout the whole tournament while scoring highest number of goals (74). It equally had an outstanding defense that included only Lukáš Hrádecký at goalkeeping position and conceded only 19 goals.

 

Key Players and Tactical Brilliance

The success of Bayer leverkusen through the entire season was due to many factors including strong attacking line up solid back four as well as tactful brilliance from Alonso.

Opponents were put under pressure by Victor Boniface (11 goals), Jeremie Frimpong (8 goals) and Alejandro Grimaldo (9 goals) up front, whereas their defense led by Piero Hincapié along with Mitchel Bakker and Edmond Tapsoba proved impenetrable.

He would adjust his plans based on different opponents’ weaknesses thus effectively exploiting them. High pressing style that he employed stifled their rivals getting him quickly into attack.

 

A Historic Title and a Bright Future

The Bundesliga title for Leverkusen is an evidence of the immovable spirit and joint splendor of their players, management team and coaching staff. This is a victory that broke away from its past and has started a new era of prosperity in the club. With a youthful talented squad led by an experienced coach, Leverkusen are ready to maintain their dominance of German football and challenge for European honours in future.

This win by the club has shocked Germany’s top league proving that even persistent underdogs can achieve greatness. The story of Leverkusen is a lesson to all aspiring athletes and teams worldwide; and it tells them that with determination, resilience, and good strategy even the most elusive dreams may be achieved.

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Football

EKITANGAZA KYA WEEKEND FREE ONLINE TIPS AND PREDICTIONS (19th April)

Predictions

Football

1.Cagliari Vs Juventus – 2 (Friday)

Juventus are currently 3rd placed after a couple of poor performances that saw them move out of the title race with Inter Milan. They play against 14th placed Cagliari that have lost in all their last 5 H2H meetings with Juventus. I see the Old Lady winning this game, though with a small margin to secure Champions League football next season.

2.Ath. Bilbao Vs Granada – 1 (Friday)

Currently 5th placed with 4 points behind Atletico Madrid, Athletic Bilbao will push for this win to cling the gap to 1 point prior to Atletico’s game this weekend. Granada have lost 4/5 of their last 5 La Liga games and I still see them losing this one given they are playing away from home at Estadio San Mames.

3.Wolves Vs Arsenal – 2 (Saturday)

At Molineux under Paul Tierney as the referee, Wolves that have not won a game in their last 4 league games host the Gunners following their loss against Aston Villa last weekend and Champions League exit in mid-week. I see Arsenal bouncing back to continue their title charge alive. This is a game of their lives and I give them a win. Arsenal ya’bantu ejja kugukuba omupiila tumuwe.

4.Man City Vs Chelsea – O2.5 (Saturday)

It is the FA Cup Semi Final at Wembley as Man City play against stubborn Chelsea to find out who heads to the Finals. Man City failed to defeat Chelsea in both Premier League legs this season and here comes another test. I anticipate an end to end game with a minimum of 3 goals. Their last FA cup meeting saw a total of 4 goals.

5.Girona Vs Cadiz – U2.5 (Saturday)

Girona lost 3:1 to Atletico Madrid last weekend and here comes 18th placed Cadiz struggling with relegation. I anticipate a very hard game for the hosts with less goals scored from both sides. I do not see more than 2 goals scored in this game as Cadiz will come into this one trying to defend well to avoid a loss. Girona scoring form also reduced of late. 5/6 of their last H2H meetings have seen U2.5 goals.

6.Esperance Tunis Vs Mamelodi Sundowns – U2.5 & No GG (Saturday)

Here comes the 1st leg of CAF Champions League Semifinal as two giants that have met several times meet to decide who heads into the finals. Action at Stade Olympique Hammadi Agrebi, home ground for Esperance, I see a very reserved game as Mamelodi will try not to concede so as to finish off this game in the 2nd leg in South Africa. Both sides are unbeaten in their last 5 games in all competitions. I expect a game where both sides respect each other. 4/5 of their last H2H meetings have seen U2.5 and No goal goal.

7.Genk Vs Anderlecht – Yes (Saturday)

It’s the Belgian Jupiler pro league group as 4th placed Genk host log leaders Anderlecht at Cegeka Arena. I anticipate an end to end game as two most offensive sides go head to head today. Both easily score and their defensive form has not been good in their last 5 games seeing each concede an average of 0.5 goals per game. All their last 3 H2H meetings have seen both teams score a goal.

8.Fulham Vs Liverpool – O2.5 (Sunday)

At Craven cottage 12th placed Fulham host 3rd placed Liverpool as the latter continue to keep their title hopes alive. Liverpool lost to Crystal palace last weekend at Anfield and I see them bouncing back with a must away win today if they are to still have chances of winning the title. Fulham have lost 2/3 last EPL H2H meetings.

9.Coventry Vs Man United – 2 (Sunday)

It’s the second FA Semifinal at Wembley as we find out who heads to the final to either play Chelsea or Man City. Man United have won 4/5 last head to head with Coventry. Let’s go for a united win as they look set to secure a silverware this season.

10.Real Madrid Vs Barcelona – O2.5 (Sunday)

El Classico started on 13th May 1902 and today will be the 257th meeting between the 2 sides. Lionel Messi is the top scorer of this meeting with 26 goals and Sergio Busquets has the most appearance mounting to 48. If am not mistaken, this is the biggest game in Club football in the whole World and here comes a meeting when Madrid lead the league with 78 points, Barcelona trailing them by 8 points. 4/4 of their last La Liga H2H meetings have seen a minimum of 3 goals and I do anticipate the same thing today. Barcelona will try to bring their confidence back with a win after dropping out of UCL in mid-week as Madrid will want to stretch their league lead. I see goals, I do not know what you see but goal zigenda kunywa blood.

~GOOD LUCK~