Soccer Blog Predictions

noreply@blogger.com (Raymond) — Sun, 10 Feb 2008 13:19:00 +0000

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noreply@blogger.com (Raymond) — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 12:58:00 +0000

After a long holiday trip around the world, I am back to earn my way to another trip around the world! My latest blog.

http://kt-soccer-predictions.blogspot.com/

noreply@blogger.com (Raymond) — Thu, 06 Jul 2006 14:50:00 +0000

THE GRAND FINALE

Italy vs France

The World cup draws to a conclusion tonight with a matchup that may surprised many soccer fanatics out there, with big names like Germany and Brazil being ousted out.

'Adieu Italy'
The Domenech side with an ageing contingent, have battled and stuttered their way through the 1st stage. However, their confidence and morale have been accelerating in an exponential fashion as the compeition progresses. From a unexpected contemptible performance in their first two opening matches, i.e. stalemates with Swiss and the Asians, they have gone on to prove the crititcs wrong by triumphing over big names like Spain, Brazil and Portugal, showing once again the classic football movements that won them the World Cup back in 1998. Their path to the final was not as easy as compared to the Azzurris where the latter had only encountered a difficult fixture with the Germans.

Soon-to-retire Zidane produced a goal in France’s 3-1 impressive victory over Spain, followed by vintage display in the sensational 1-0 success against holders Brazil. Zinedine Zidane, odds-on favourite to win the player of the tournament award, has been a leader cum inspirator for the French throughout the tournament. He has displayed amazingly individual dribbles, accurate passes/crosses and dead ball set pieces skills, and to be honest, it's arugably his best World Cup performance to date. Perhaps the thought of the last appearance in international scenes has spurred out the maximum potential out of himself.

'Arrivederci France'
On the other hand, the Italians did not looked like a typical Italian side with their usual attacking flair and movement. They have met up with reasonably weaker teams like Urkaine and Australia. Their real test was against hosts Germany where a incredible two minute performance broke the hearts of the entire German nation. Tonight will be their second real tough test, against a strong-willed French team, eager to prove that they are not the 2002 minnows that exited from the first round without scoring a goal. The Italian's defense has been rock solid throughout the compeition, without conceding a goal scored by an opposition, led by the agile and alert Buffon and Cannavaro. With such a compacted defense, the Italians will do what it does best. Counter-attack. In a 4-5-1 formation, Totti, Gattuso and Pirlo are capable of making electrifying runs. Together with Toni as the lone striker, the also solid French defense, that keep three clean sheets in four games, might bow down to a perhaps 'Butter-fingers' scenario by Fabien Barthez, yet again.

To conquer the French, one man needs to be laid-off. Zinedine Zidane. I am quite confident that the deadly Italian midfield trio should finish this job and will leave Domenech re-evaluating himself on why he has never won a major title as a manager. The match fixing trials with verdicts due tomorrow could have the Italians playing for much more than the World Cup, i.e. Their bleaking career future.

A narrow win by the Italians.

HAIL THE 2006 WORLD CUP CHAMPIONS: ITALY !!

noreply@blogger.com (Raymond) — Thu, 06 Jul 2006 08:57:00 +0000

Sorry guys on my prediction.

France got lucky to have slip off with a 1-0 narrow victory over underrated Portugal yesterday. Though the penalty given was a fair one, Ricardo was unlucky not to save it as he guessed correctly the direction that Zidane had sent the ball to. Neverthless, Portugal had more possession of the ball and were unlucky not to have convert the ball following a Ronaldo thunderous free-kick. The French N0.1 keeper could only pat the ball high up into the sky and the Figo's follow-up header was unfortunate to find its way slightly over the bar. A rare chance to equalise!!

Lilian Thuram had been governing France's entire backline and he did it in superb style yesterday. The 34 year-old veteran was the main source of inspiration for defense throughout the match, having to fend off a well organised attack led by Figo and Ronaldo with their mazy runs, passes and shots. Following a undeserved loss in Allianz Arena, Portgual may have lost their fighting spirit and looks all possible to continue their streak. I fancied the Germans to snap up third place and the Portugese to go home empty-handed.

For Zidane, it would be his dream retirement from international soccer scenes should France go on and beat the italians. Let's stay tuned for a world-class match-up between Italy and France. The World Cup Final that everyone has been waiting for in 4 years!!

noreply@blogger.com (Raymond) — Thu, 06 Jul 2006 00:00:00 +0000

Germany vs Portugal
Germany will win this match.

noreply@blogger.com (Raymond) — Wed, 05 Jul 2006 16:52:00 +0000

Finally I have the blogs up...

English Premier League
Serie A
La Liga
German Bundesliga
Champion League

Thank you for your support!

noreply@blogger.com (Raymond) — Wed, 05 Jul 2006 14:17:00 +0000

Portugal vs France

Just like yesterday, I got a feeling that the underdogs will prevail once again. The bookmakers has been over-rating France since the start of World Cup.

The unexpected French victory over Brazil, would be the key reason why France is favourite today. The goal that Henry scored was quite a giveaway as there was "no one" marking him. A big mistake by the 'off-form' big guns. I'm expecting Portugal defense to be in maximum alert today, and with the petite Ricardo in superb hot form who embarrass the England boys by making superb penalty saves, the French will have difficulty in breaking its last line of defense.

With the likes of World Class players like Deco, C. Ronaldo, Pauleta and Maniche; Portugal is really worthy of at least a second place in this World Cup.

Let's talk about another crucial factor. The coach factor. Let's face it. Domenech's quiet nature may not protray a positive role model for his players. He may be a great gentleman, or even a successful businessman but he might lack an air of commanding aura around him. This may proved to be a major disadvantage when compared to the ever fiery and commanding Scolari. Remember the Portugal-Holland match? Cold-blooded, quiet Van Basten against fiery Scolari. We might face the same situation here again. No doubt, Scolari can really boost team motivation with his mimics and body language. His competence is further backed up by leading the Brazilians to the Cup victory back in Korea Japan 2002, hence his shrewdness in tactics and choosing the correct players will be one of the key factors should Portugal proceed to the finals.

I'm really confident in Scolari and his boys. Therefore my pick is Portugal to qualify!

Let's await to a Italy-Portgual Final!! Cheers!!

noreply@blogger.com (Raymond) — Tue, 04 Jul 2006 15:37:00 +0000

Latest update on the future of this site

I'll still be providing predictions.
I will be making predictions on all matches in English Premier League,
Spanish La Liga, German Bundesliga and Italian Serie A. UEFA cup and Champion League Cup will also be included.

Stay tuned to developments in these upcoming blogs!
The first blog is up....
English Premier League

noreply@blogger.com (Raymond) — Tue, 04 Jul 2006 00:25:00 +0000

Germany vs Italy

ITALY has started the major tournament slowly but they are slowly gaining strength like a bullet train. I am confident that they can steam on tonight’s World Cup semi-final.The Italians crushed Germany 4-1 in a recent friendly match in Florence and the emotional effects will surely favor the underdogs and give them a unfair advantage. The Germans are full of confidence at the moment but QUESTION is : Will this be enough? Germany's performance against Argentina was not that good, however we are bound to see some strange decisions from the officials again tonight, favoring the hosts. Home advantage has been a major reason for the Germans in their advances throughout this competition if you have been an avid follower. The German defense held a tight line at the expense of making the midfield work too hard with the ground they had to cover. How much has that taken out of them?

With Luca Toni shining in the previous game, this will skyrocket his confidence to an unbelieveable level and cause the German defense a lot of problems.With the suspended Matarazzi back in the Italian defense they should be strong and tactful enough to withstand the early pressure from the Germans. It will be no easy job BUT the Italians will have too much about them for the Germans and progress to the final.

Italy to progress to the much awaited final.

noreply@blogger.com (Raymond) — Fri, 30 Jun 2006 22:54:00 +0000

England vs Portugal
Portugal will go through to the semi-finals.

Brazil vs France
France will go through to the next stage.

noreply@blogger.com (Raymond) — Tue, 27 Jun 2006 03:54:00 +0000

Germany vs Argentina
Rare Analysis today!!

It's probably the most famous classic game when Germany play hosts to Argentina in the quarterfinals.

Germany silenced their critics following a fine performance in the World Cup on home soil, which saw them topping Group A before beating Sweden 2-0 in the second round. The Mannschaft have also kept three consecutive clean sheets on their way to the last eight. On the other hand, Argentina is the most entertaining team in this World Cup depite having hard times in their last two matches against Holland and Mexico.

The history slightly favours Germany in terms of matches played in the World Cup. Here are the results of their matches in the World Cup so far:

1958 (Swe): W.Germany vs. Argentina 3-1
1966 (Eng): W.Germany vs. Argentina 0-0
1986 (Mex): W.Germany vs. Argentina 3-2
1990 (Ita): W.Germany vs. Argentina 1-0

As it is evident on past records, Germany has not lost to Argentina in the World Cup on a European soil.

Yes, Argentina is arguably the better team in 2006. But again the home field advantage during the World Cup should not be underestimated. Additionally, the refereeing may be a decisive factor as well. Hence, I'll side the home side today.

Famous Germany Win today!

Italy vs Ukraine
Italy is too strong for Ukraine. An Italy win tonite.

noreply@blogger.com (Raymond) — Mon, 26 Jun 2006 02:26:00 +0000

Italy vs Australia
Italy has been very strong in their attack. Italy should win this match by more than a goal.

Switzerland vs Ukraine
Switzerland will win this match.

noreply@blogger.com (Raymond) — Sun, 25 Jun 2006 02:15:00 +0000

England vs Ecuador
England's performance in this world cup is terrible. Ecuador, on the other hand, has displayed superb performance. This match will most likely head for extra time. Who knows, Ecuador may be able to settle the match within 90 mins.

Portugal vs Netherlands
Portugal will not lose this match within 90 mins.

noreply@blogger.com (Raymond) — Sat, 24 Jun 2006 02:35:00 +0000

Germany vs Sweden
Germany's defence is questionable. However, sweden seems to have no luck in front of goals. Hence, Germany's attacking prowess will triump against sweden.

Argentina vs Mexico
Mexico should be able to hold Argentina. The worst outcome for Mexico is to lose by a goal.

noreply@blogger.com (Raymond) — Fri, 23 Jun 2006 09:34:00 +0000

Suadi Arabia vs Spain
Spain shall trash Suadi.

Ukraine vs Tunisia
Ukraine will win Tunisia .

Switerland vs South Korea
Korea should win this match.

Togo vs France
France will thrash Togo.

noreply@blogger.com (Raymond) — Thu, 22 Jun 2006 06:48:00 +0000

Czech vs Italy

Italy's creative flair will win the game.

Ghana vs USA

USA shall win this game

Croatia vs Australia

This game is a fair game. should end in a draw.

Japan vs Brazil
Brazil will thrash japan.

noreply@blogger.com (Raymond) — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 00:28:00 +0000

Iran vs Angola
Angola shall win this match.

Portugal vs Mexico
Portugal's strikeforce should demolish mexico's defence.

Ivory Coast vs Serbia & Montenegro
Serbia will win.

Netherlands vs Argentina
A closely contested game. But Argentina should win this match.

noreply@blogger.com (Raymond) — Tue, 20 Jun 2006 16:07:00 +0000

Sweden vs England

England will win this match.

noreply@blogger.com (Raymond) — Tue, 20 Jun 2006 08:40:00 +0000

Ecuador vs Germany

Ecuador will not lose this match by more than a goal.

Paraguay vs T&T

A draw match.

noreply@blogger.com (Raymond) — Tue, 20 Jun 2006 03:59:00 +0000

Costa Rica vs Poland

Costa Rica is a very strong team in terms of attack. However, Poland will win this match.

noreply@blogger.com (Raymond) — Mon, 19 Jun 2006 14:08:00 +0000

Havent been able to blog my predictions for the past few days. For my regular readers, I'm really sorry to keep u waiting. I'm back now!

Saudi Arabia vs Ukraine

Saudi Arabia will not lose this game by more than a goal. A draw is highly possible.

Spain vs Tunisia

Spain will not be winning this match by more than a goal. A draw will not be surprising.

noreply@blogger.com (Raymond) — Tue, 13 Jun 2006 09:08:00 +0000

Matchday 5

Group G
France vs Switzerland
______________________________________________________

13th June 2006

Prediction: France 1-0 or 2-1

Second game of the Group G. France and Switzerland already met twice in the qualification phase; THE RESULT : two draws (0-0, 1-1). The '98 champions has since won all his last friendlies (Mexico 1-0, Denmark 2-0, China 3-1) whereas Switzerland drew twice (Italy 1-1, Ivory Coast 1-1) and won against China 4-1.

What a French team - Barthez, Sagnol, Thuram, Gallas, Abidal, Wiltord, Makelele, Ribery. It seems more a “Rest of the World” rather than a simple national team. And only if we add names like “David Trezeguet, Zidane,Vieira and Herny”, France would sound decent and powerful.

Seems like Switzerland have no chance at all. Well, think again. Switzerland's draws against France were not chanced upon. Memories struck in my brain that apparently in one of the ocassions, the Swiss team had well deserved to win as they had more goal-scoring chances than France.

Switzerland would not be playing a little role in this World Cup. With two years before the European Championship commences in Austria and Switzerland, the Swiss team has since created a young and dymanic team, ready to obtain good results now and also in 2008. After the “Battle at Istanbul”, they have simply no reasons to accept a defeat now.

Now that we have understood that the Suisse consists of amateur players that are not to be undermined, here comes a new big doubt: Who will stop Thierry Henry? Simple. His Arsenal's club mates Philippe Senderos and Johan Djourou. The star-studded team is so so hungry for a win following a disgrace first round exit (with no goals scored) from '02 World Cup with a series of flops and under performance. Their past lack-lustre performance will certainly raised eyebrows this time round. Would they do it again? Will Herny flop again?

From the looks of it, if Herny is able to maintain his Champion League form, the French would be able a scrap off a win in Stuttgart as they are simply a class above their opponents.

noreply@blogger.com (Raymond) — Mon, 12 Jun 2006 09:52:00 +0000

Matchday 4

Group E
Italy vs Ghana
______________________________________________________

12th June 2006

Prediction: Italy 1-1

With Lippi confirming that Totti will play in this match, Italy is surely fielding a 4-3-3 formation. Although Lippi is still very secretive on the first XI, he gave away that Luca Toni will be playing either Vincenzo or Alberto. With the current form of Vincenzo, the Azurri camp will definitely put a lot of pressure on Ghana's defence.

However, in the past two friendlies, the Italian midfield has failed to provide the vital delivery to its strikeforce. Furthermore, Ghana midfield is very experienced and extremely accustomed to keeping the ball. Ghana may not have a very impressive strikeforce but its ability to keep the ball in possession may very well frustrate and tire the italians.

Expect some goals for Ghana on the counter when the italians are off-guard. This game looks set for a 1-1 draw.

noreply@blogger.com (Raymond) — Sun, 11 Jun 2006 08:33:00 +0000

Matchday 3

Group D
Mexico vs Iran
______________________________________________________

11th June 2006

Prediction: Mexico 3-1 or 3-2

First game in Group D. Since the other 2 teams are the top favourite Portugal and the outsider Angola, 3 points here will give huge advantage for the winner. Mexico is the favourite, but not like what the odds suggested. Their offensive play mainly relies on the heading abilities by Borgheti and G.Franco. They are good forwards, but Mexico style of play is too predictable.

On the other side we have Iran - team with very good midfield line, but too weak in defence. With experienced players based in Germany like Ali Karimi, Mahdavikia and co, they can indeed cause a lot of problems for the Mexican defense. But with the absence of defender Sattar Zare, this will certainly add to amateur Iran's defensive woes. They are scoring a lot of goals, but conceding alot too.

Predictable as it may seems, statistics has always shown a superior performance by the South American team in the world's most prestigious soccer tournament . What's more , their opponents are not even regular participants in this competition; experience is maybe depriving them of a win or even a draw tonite. All in one, I expect this to be an open game and lot of goals will flow in as the Mexican keeper Sanchez may not be in the right state of mood following his father's funeral on Wednesday, i.e. if he were to play in time.

An easy win for the green team.

noreply@blogger.com (Raymond) — Sat, 10 Jun 2006 02:08:00 +0000

Matchday 2

Group B
England vs Paraguay
______________________________________________________

10th June 2006

Prediction: Paraguay draw 0-0 or upset win 0-1

Sven-Goran Eriksson says he is sending out the finest England team he has ever had on a mission to win the World Cup. The England coach exuded confidence as he placed total faith in his side ahead of the opener against Paraguay. He said: "This is the best England team I have ever had - no doubt about it at all. When you have a great team and a good group you can set the tempo.

Liverpool's Peter Crouch will deputize for the injured Rooney and the England star looks on a speedy recovery in time for the knockout stages (if England ever make it). Although the Liverpool striker show signs of scoring form recently from EPL matches, he has always problems of putting the ball in the net under point blank situations. With that in mind, it's now up to his compatriot Steven Gerrard at the mersey side club to incinerate the England attack and conjure the goals or even scoring them.

On the other side, Paraguay’s striker Roque Santa Cruz has declared himself fit to play after recovering from a knee injury. Cruz's return for Paraguay will be a major boost for Coach Anibal Ruiz, who has already lost striker Jose Cardozo to injury. The Bayern Munich forward is Paraguay's biggest threat to England, while Carlos Paredes will battle it out with Gerrard and Frank Lampard for control of the midfield.

On a Head-to-Heads record, England and Paraguay have met each other twice before. In 1986, England won 3-0 at the second round stage of the World Cup in Mexico. In 2002, England beat Paraguay 4-0, this time in a friendly international. Despite all statistics favouring the strong European team, I still want to go against the odds today.

Reason: Paraguay is a highly defensive team and the warm-up matches has proven South American team is capable of forestalling its opponents in attack although the opponents are relatively quite weak in attack. With the absence of England golden boy Rooney, I think Paraguay might be able to pull off a low scoring draw here or an upset win.