Author: Deryl Aduda

Fab and Bobo’s Picks – MW8

On By Deryl AdudaIn Premier LeagueLeave a comment

Luton vs. Tottenham Hotspur

H2H:

Fab: Luton followed up their maiden win in the Premier League at Everton over the weekend with a morale-sapping loss at home to fellow promoted side, Burnley. Next challenge? A tough assignment at home against high flying second placed Spurs, who may consider themselves lucky to have come out of their encounter with Liverpool with all the points after that farcical refereeing decision nullified a perfectly legit Liverpool goal. Nonetheless, Angeball will seek to kick on and add more points in the bag.

Prediction: 1-3

Bobo: Luton did well to get their first win of the season last weekend and should have got some momentum going with their rescheduled match at home against Burnley but they missed this big opportunity. Spurs were gifted the match by the officials at the last match but take nothing away from the quality this team possesses. I think it will be another win for Spurs and a sustained stay near the top.

Prediction: 1-3

Burnley vs. Chelsea

H2H: W1 D4 L11

Fab: Both sides arrive on the back of much needed wins; Burnley getting their first league win of the season at Luton and Chelsea only their second of the season at Fulham. So safe to say, spirits in both camps have been lifted a bit. Traditionally the Clarets don’t do well at home to the Blues. Indeed, Chelsea have never lost at Turf Moor in the league. Normally you’d back the visitors to come and pick routine points, but probably not this current crop. There should be plenty of fight and probably a draw should suffice.

Prediction: 1-1

Bobo: Both teams got much needed wins and should be looking to stay in motion. This is a great match for both as they look for some consistency. I think Burnley have what it takes to make Chelsea pay but it will likely be a draw.

Prediction: 2-2

Everton vs. Bournemouth

H2H: W5 D2 L5

Fab: So, Everton can’t win at home and Bournemouth can’t win at all. How fascinating! The Toffees have played 4 times at home this season and lost all of them and this could easily be the fifth. The only reprieve is that the Cherries have to win a single game in the top flight this campaign and don’t seem like winning one any soon. Since both teams can’t lose, and I don’t fancy a draw, I’ll go with an Everton win.

Prediction: 2-1

Bobo: Everton seemed like they were on their way to picking up some wins but they could not sustain this. The Cherries are one of two teams without a Premier League win and will feel that they can get the three points here. And they probably will.

Prediction: 1-2

Fulham vs. Sheffield United

H2H: W2 D1 L1

Fab: Fulham will be reeling from that loss at home to Chelsea and should want to put things right against the rather hapless Blades who are yet to win and seem to be finding life back in the big time tougher than they probably imagined. I can’t see them getting any reprieve at Craven Cottage either, even if Fulham are having problems scoring goals.

Prediction: 2-0

Bobo: Fulham will welcome Sheffield as they look to get back to winning ways. They have the quality it takes to win this match and I think they will. Sheffield will continue to anchor the table for a while.

Prediction: 3-1

Manchester United vs. Brentford

H2H: W3 D4 L1

Fab: Can United catch a break? They’re in quite a rut and might as well register a third consecutive home loss in a week (or 8 days). The loss to Galatasaray in Europe must have really hurt in the manner they threw away leads twice and even had a man sent off, not forgetting the fact that it could have been worse had Mauro Icardi converted his penalty for the visitors. Thankfully though, their next opponents Brentford are also going through a torrid time with their only win in open play all the way back in August. The occasion will no doubt be clouded by the demise of Lady Cathy Ferguson, wife of the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson and you never know how the team reacts to such grief. I think an upset is heavily on the cards.

Prediction: 1-2

Bobo: Phew! Two teams that are performing below expectations meet again. United have a series of injuries that are making it hard to string some good results while Brentford are still without their star man Ivan Toney. It should be an interesting match of who wants it more but this won’t be enough to separate the two. Another draw I think.

Prediction: 2-2

Crystal Palace vs. Nottingham Forest

H2H: W0 D3 L3

Fab: Palace did extremely well to get that win at Old Trafford and are looking good for the win here on home turf. Forest did well to get a point at home to Brentford as they had to play through with ten men. They really are a tough nut to crack, but will probably be cracked here.

Prediction: 2-1

Bobo: A proper mid-table fixture with two teams doing what is expected of them. The Eagles will be soaring high after an important victory last weekend while Forest will be proud of their performances so far and their resilience in a game. I think Palace have the quality to finally pick up pick up the three points.

Prediction: 2-1

Brighton vs. Liverpool

H2H: W2 D3 L7

Fab: This should be an interesting watch. Brighton have continued to entertain, following up their rather shocking 6-1 mauling at Villa Park with a gutsy come from behind 2-2 draw with Marseille at the Velodrome in the Europa League. Juergen Klopp may not get the replay with Spurs that he craves after that inexplicable ‘human error’ but he’ll need to put that disappointment behind and more importantly ensure his side finishes the game with 11 men. Indeed, Liverpool’s discipline has come into sharp focus already having received 4 red cards already. They did lose their 17-match unbeaten run at Spurs and the thing about such a run ending is that you suddenly can be a bit more brittle.

Prediction: 3-2

Bobo: The Seagulls saw red in their last match and will want to avoid the same this time. Liverpool also saw red but in a different way and will look to build from a mostly positive performance. Two teams with a lot to play for before the break. I think Brighton may just have the edge here.

Prediction: 2-1

West Ham United vs. Newcastle

H2H: W14 D13 L23

Fab: How do you top probably one of your greatest nights in history? Well, by travelling to London and doing the business against West Ham, no? That’s Newcastle’s task after acing that PSG test so magnificently. West Ham are doing their business quietly, efficiently and nicely, going to places like Freiburg and winning. This clash of two high fliers will probably boil down to who comes back down to earth and humbles themselves to take care of the less glamorous stuff. After such a euphoric night for Newcastle, I have to go with the Hammers continuing their good run.

Prediction: 3-1

Bobo: This is a really interesting match and the Hammers will want to prove they can compete against the big boys. Newcastle will want to ensure they get all the three points against a team that seems like it may be a rival for European spots. I think the Hammers will do what they have been doing and get the win.

Prediction: 3-2

Wolverhampton vs. Aston Villa

H2H: W6 D5 L5

Fab: Well, Wolves only went and dispatched champions Man City, no big deal. But really, it was. That scalp just might be what they needed to turn around their season. Villa annihilated Brighton and come into this Midlands derby on the cusp of top 4 in the log, and even if they haven’t done well in this fixture of late, they will be looking at the table and seeing what can be achieved. Problem with Villa is that they can be such a yo-yo team and we’ll probably witness this inconsistency yet again. Wolves for the win then.

Prediction: 2-1

Bobo: Being the first team to make Manchester City drop points. Massive for Wolves and it should really boost their confidence. Aston Villa also had a massive result of their own. So it is two teams on a high going against each other. Villa seem like they may just about have the edge over this oddly interesting Wolves team.

Prediction: 1-3

Arsenal vs. Manchester City

H2H: W23 D10 L19

Fab: A clash of title contenders and a chance for either of them to lay down a marker for the season. Arsenal come into this on the back of their first loss of the season, away at Lens while City dropped their first league points of the season at Wolves. In short, both sides’ cloaks of invincibility have been torn. The Gunners have lost their last 12 league clashes with City, and really that’s some wretched stuff. Starboy Bukayo Saka is touch and go for this match, still struggling with injury and well, that should be good news to City. Will he make it? It will be a referendum on Arsenal’s ability to challenge City all the way and thus the pressure and onus will be very much on them. Can they get that elusive win? I think so, yes.

Prediction: 2-1

Bobo: A fantastic match before the international break. Arteta is still looking for his first win against his mentor and former employers while the Blues are looking to bounce back from a rare defeat. It will be an interesting battle that will likely have shared spoils.

Prediction: 1-1

Fab and Bobo’s Picks – MW7

On By Deryl AdudaIn Premier LeagueLeave a comment

Aston Villa vs. Brighton

H2H: W5 D2 L1

Fab: I think it’s safe to say we should expect lots of goals in this one. Indeed, the visitors are the highest scorers in the division, and Villa’s games have become synonymous with goals, well except their last one at the Bridge last weekend. But who will win though? Villa somehow seems to have a recent good record against Brighton and that should give them the confidence they need.

Prediction: 3-2

Bobo: What a way to start the weekend! This is a great match with two teams that play some really exciting football. The two teams are also in great form having won 4 of their last 5. Aston Villa have done the double over Brighton in the last two seasons and I think that their home advantage may just come into play here. It should be an exciting match with a Villa win.

Prediction: 4-2

Bournemouth vs. Arsenal

H2H: W1 D2 L9

Fab: The Gunners come into this encounter with several injury concerns cutting across their starting XI and that should give the Cherries some hope of getting something out of this game. The problem for the home side is that Arsenal seem to travel really well this season. Indeed, they’ve won both of their trips 1-0 and registered the same scoreline in the midweek Carabao Cup tie at Brentford. Who’s to say it won’t end the same way at the Vitality? “One nil to the Arsenal!”

Prediction: 0-1

Bobo: Gunners should be feeling disappointed that they do not have the bragging rights after the NLD last week. The Cherries offer a chance for redemption for a relatively weakened Arsenal side due to some niggling injuries. They are looking for their first win of the season and this fixture against Arsenal provides them with a chance to get that. However, I think Arsenal have the quality to get the three points and keep up with the teams at the top.

Prediction: 1-3

Everton vs. Luton

H2H:

Fab: Everton seems to have turned around the corner with that impressive scalp of Brentford last weekend and should make it back to back wins for the first time in such a long time. Luton are still winless and you wonder where and how that elusive win is going to come about. The Toffees’ poor home form aside, I can’t see them throwing away what seems like a gimme fixture.

Prediction: 3-1

Bobo: Everton got an important win in the league and another in the League Cup to give them a much needed boost. They are an object in motion and I expect that they will stay this way. I think they will be too much for Luton and they will get the win that keeps them climbing up the table. Luton should really have won their last match and are still in search of their first win. The search will go on until maybe their next match.

Prediction: 2-1

Manchester United vs. Crystal Palace

H2H: W19 D6 L3

Fab: It’s a second instalment of this clash in just four days following United’s dominant display in the Carabao Cup in midweek and they will be hoping to pick up from where they left off. Palace were abysmal in that match and must vastly improve to get anything out of this one. The hosts are plagued by injuries in their backline, more so at left back, but should still have enough in the tank to dispatch the Eagles.

Prediction: 2-1

Bobo: United also seem to be turning things around though they were really lucky in their last league match. After a loss to the same team, the Eagles will be feeling that they can do better and go back to winning ways. However, I think that the Red Devils will get all the three points at home but it will most likely be close.

Prediction: 2-1

Newcastle United vs. Burnley

H2H: W6 D4 L2

Fab: What a week Newcastle is having. They plundered 8 goals past Sheffield then followed it up with a significant League Cup win over the mighty Man City and surely they are on a roll. The same can’t be said of Burnley as they are still winless in the league. Though to be fair they did manage an impressive victory over Salford in the Cup in midweek. That aside, I fancy the Magpies to get the win here as they prepare for the visit of Kylian Mbappe and co in the Champions League.

Prediction: 3-1

Bobo: Eight goals in their last match and facing a newly-promoted team. Burnley will have to be wary when facing Newcastle but I think the Toons will be too good for them. 

Prediction: 4-1

West Ham United vs. Sheffield United

H2H: W3 D2 L3

Fab: The Hammers have had a great start to the season but were stopped in their tracks by Liverpool last weekend. They will be seeking to get back on track with a win over a Sheffield side still reeling from a chastening horror show at home against Newcastle. I don’t think the tide will have turned soon enough for the Blades to avoid another (probably big) defeat.

Prediction: 4-1

Bobo: The Hammers have been doing quite alright with their two losses of the season coming against Liverpool and Manchester City. They will be looking to get back to winning ways against a likely deflated unit. Sheffield will have to give a better performance to avoid the embarrassment of last week. They will still be hammered though.

Prediction: 3-0

Wolverhampton vs. Manchester City

H2H: W4 D2 L12

Fab: Man City are 6 from 6 and will be looking to make it a perfect seven in the league this season and whether Wolves can stop that from happening remains to be seen. The home side should find encouragement in City’s midweek cup defeat as a pointer that indeed, every perfection is flawed. Then again the manner in which Wolves blew a 2-0 lead at Ipswich in the cup pretty much suggests that the possibility of an upset here is highly improbable.

Prediction: 1-3

Bobo: The Wolves have a myriad of problems they need to address. However, I do not think any addressing can prevent a loss against the league leaders who have not dropped a single point so far.

Prediction: 1-4

Tottenham vs. Liverpool

H2H: W14 D17 L31

Fab: Match of the weekend? Absolutely. Both sides have started the season quite brilliantly, and it must be said, rather against expectation. Spurs were good value for their draw in the North London derby and probably will feel they should have gone on to win. Liverpool dispatched West Ham with aplomb and followed it up with another fine win against Leicester in the cup and will no doubt be relishing this trip. I think there will be goals, but just can’t quite pick a winner here.

Prediction: 2-2

Bobo: An interesting way to end the first day of the weekend’s football. As I have said before, Tottenham are going about their business quietly and collecting vital points. Both teams remain unbeaten and Liverpool have been looking really good of late. It should be an interesting fixture where both teams will keep their unbeaten streak.

Prediction: 2-2

Nottingham Forest vs. Brentford

H2H: W0 D1 L1

Fab: Both teams are going through somewhat a lean patch and in fact for the visitors it is starker as their last win in open play was over a month ago at Fulham. Forest have not won in two games, so I guess that makes their form relatively the better of the two. For some reason I think they will share the points.

Prediction: 2-2

Bobo: Two teams in desperate need for a win. Forest have been quite impressive while Brentford have been a bit underwhelming. I think this is a great chance for Forest to pick up three points at home.

Prediction: 2-1

Fulham vs. Chelsea

H2H: W2 D11 L19

Fab: I just know Chelsea are not going to win this derby. A combination of extremely poor form and the fact that they are away at Craven Cottage on a Monday night is enough for that conclusion.

Prediction: 2-1

Bobo: Chelsea’s problems are with finishing their chances. Having picked up a vital win in midweek, they may be feeling more confident. Fulham are performing as would be expected and one would expect them to get at least a point at home.

Prediction: 1-1

Luton vs. Burnley

H2H: W0 D1 L1

Fab: This is a difficult game to predict given that both sides will have played a match before this fixture which is a rearranged one from earlier on in the season. I think I’ll just fancy Burnley to edge it as it’s against an opponent that their performances of late would be enough to beat.

Prediction: 1-3

Bobo: If it was possible for two teams to lose a match, then this would be it. Both teams are looking way out of their depth going into this match. I think Luton can take advantage of the home ground and be the first of the two to get their first win.

Prediction: 2-1

Fab and Bobo’s Picks – MW5

On By Deryl AdudaIn Premier LeagueLeave a comment

Wolverhampton vs. Liverpool

H2H: W4 D3 L15

Fab: Wolves have been struggling this season, only one win in four, and will no doubt have been relieved the international break came when it did. But it’s back to business and they have to start getting some positive results on the board. Only problem is that they entertain a high-flying Liverpool side who are yet to taste defeat this season. Word of caution for the visitors though – they failed to win in all of their travels last season when it was an early kick off. That said, any chance of a Wolves upset hinges on them keeping a clean sheet, and I don’t think they will.

Prediction: 1-2

Bobo: A really interesting match between a team that is still not convincing (ah, but this could describe both teams) so I will just stop there. Liverpool have all the firepower they need to assault this Wolves side. This Wolves side seems quite stable and has the potential to hold on for a point. However, I think the Reds might just be too good for them.

Prediction: 0-2

Aston Villa vs. Crystal Palace

H2H: W9 D7 L8

Fab: As I have highlighted before, you just never know what to expect with this current Villa side. They blow hot and cold a little bit too much. Then again, they are at home against a Palace side that doesn’t travel well so barring a miracle, I think the hosts will see out this one.

Prediction: 3-1

Bobo: The pick of the week in my opinion. Two really exciting teams this season. This should make for an interesting match. Villa are looking dangerous and the Eagles have their moments. Both teams are playing some good and exciting football and there is no reason this should not be a good game. At the moment, it seems that Villa have the better team and the higher chance of winning.

Prediction: 3-1

Fulham vs. Luton

H2H: W2 D2 L0

Fab: Fulham were on the end of a 5-1 pasting at Man City last time out, but probably it’s something a side like theirs will have accepted – an occasional thrashing at the hands of a vastly superior side. In that vein, they should prove to be an equally superior side to Luton, who are yet to put points on the board so far. All indications point to a professional job by the Cottagers with minimal fuss.

Prediction: 3-0

Bobo: Fulham are another exciting team to watch this season after their brilliant run last season. They will want to pick up the points against a still-settling Luton team. I expect that they will.

Prediction: 3-1

Manchester United vs. Brighton

H2H: W9 D1 L5

Fab: United may have acquired the unflattering moniker ‘Statement FC’ following the number of statements the club has had to release concerning disciplinary issues regarding their players, but they’ll have to dole out an even bigger statement if they are to beat Brighton. The home side will be missing both Antony and Jadon Sancho and it will be interesting to see how they compensate in attack. The Seagulls come into this clash after that brilliant demolition of Newcastle and confidence is surely sky high. United lost in dramatic fashion at Arsenal and another loss here will put them in severe danger of drifting further behind the top hitters so early in the season.

Prediction: 1-2

Bobo: A difficult test for the Red Devils. The Seagulls have shown what they are capable of but the Hammers also showed how to stop them. It is difficult to predict which Manchester United will turn up. However, all the Seagulls have to do is be at their best and focus on defending the transition play from the Devils. Brighton may just come away with another win because they seem just a bit better organized at the moment.

Prediction: 1-3

Tottenham Hotspur vs. Sheffield United

H2H: W5 D4 L4

Fab: Ange Postecoglu is fresh from winning the August Manager of the Month award so to say he’s enjoying the start to life in England is an understatement. And what is more, I don’t see that changing any soon with the visit of the Blades. The good times keep rolling for the Spurs.

Prediction: 2-0

Bobo: I think that Spurs will do really well this season. They have a manager who is just focused on his football and a team with players who want to come out of the Harry Kane shadow. Sheffield have shown some moments of brilliance but they will need more than that to come away with anything here. I think Spurs will be too strong for them.

Prediction: 3-0

West Ham United vs. Manchester City

H2H: W10 D9 L33

Fab: Fancy City to drop their first points of the season? I strongly do, yeah. The Hammers have started their season well and made shrewd acquisitions. City did steamroll Fulham in the last fixture and just maybe are beginning to get into their devastating form. One thing though, the London Stadium can be a difficult place to go and this looks like one of those occasions. I’ll go for an entertaining high scoring draw.

Prediction: 3-3

Bobo: The Hammers have definitely had a good start to the season. They are still unbeaten and they can boast that impressive win against the high-flying and at the time, seemingly unstoppable Brighton. They will feel that they can achieve a lot even against the best team in England, and probably globally. I think this may be the end of City’s perfect winning run. The Hammers can get a point at home.

Prediction: 1-1

Newcastle United vs. Brentford

H2H: W3 D1 L1

Fab: At the start of the season, I’d have comfortably proclaimed a Newcastle win in this one, but ever since their dazzling opening day win at home to Villa, everything has gone south so fast. Granted, the opposition the Magpies have faced in those three losses have been of a high quality. Brentford themselves are no pushovers – indeed, they are still unbeaten this season. This is the start of a massive week for the Toon as on Tuesday they face AC Milan at the grand old cauldron of the San Siro in the Champions League. They will therefore want to go in to that with some confidence. Brentford will make it difficult, but for some reason Newcastle will just about grind out the win.

Prediction: 2-1

Bobo: The Toon have all the tools to still do really well this season. However, things just seem to not be working for them. The impression from Brentford is that they are a team who will not give up under any circumstance. This makes for a very interesting match. I think that the teams are highly likely to share the spoils here.

Prediction: 2-2

Bournemouth vs. Chelsea

H2H: W4 D1 L10

Fab: We thought Chelsea had finally turned the corner when they beat Luton but how wide off the mark that thinking was as soon enough Nottingham Forest brought them back to earth. That should give the Cherries every reason to believe that they can get their first league win of the season, but they will have to be at their ruthless best – Chelsea are still a good team, after all.

Prediction: 1-0

Bobo: The Cherries are exciting though inconsistent and Chelsea are definitely consistent in their point-dropping though this is surprising when you look at the numbers. Could the break have given the Chelsea management the time needed to address their issues? I think not and I think it will be a good chance for Bournemouth to pick up some three points at home.

Prediction: 2-1

Everton vs. Arsenal

H2H: W12 D14 L38

Fab: It used to be Stoke that were Arsenal’s bogey team. Now Everton have firmly grasped that mantle. It is indeed 6 years since the Gunners last registered a win at Goodison Park and that doesn’t make for good reading. The Toffees are winless this season and have just acquired new ownership, the 777 Partners (new owner bounce, anyone?). Everything points to Everton winning like they always do in this fixture and that’s why I’m going with Arsenal breaking their duck.

Prediction: 1-2

Bobo: What is the best team to play when you desperately need a win or if you are a debutant and want a goal or if you are a striker on a goal drought? The answer to all those is Arsenal. The Gunners have a history of performing poorly against teams on a bad run. However, I think the Arsenal this season is a different team and they should get the business done here. I’ll boldly predict three points though I am highly likely to regret this decision.

Prediction: 1-3

Nottingham Forest vs. Burnley

H2H: W2 D2 L6

Fab: Life back in the big time is proving rather tumultuous for Burnley and it doesn’t help that their next fixture is at of all places, the City Ground on a Monday night. And of course, Forest are having a decent season so the Clarets’ search for redemption will continue.

Prediction: 2-1

Bobo: Forest have been so impressive this season. A real surprise for me. They have the ability to score goals and this is working well for them. Burnley are yet to settle in the premier league. I think Forest will take advantage of this and get some important three points.

Prediction: 3-1

Fab and Bobo’s Picks – MW4

On By Deryl AdudaIn Premier LeagueLeave a comment

Luton vs. West Ham United

H2H:

Fab: It’s becoming more and more difficult to see Luton getting a win in the league. I mean, they’re not that bad, but also there isn’t much quality in their squad either. The Hammers on the other hand are flying high and confounding critics like myself who predicted a tough start for them. A couple of 3-1 wins over Chelsea and Brighton have thrust them right to the upper echelons of the log and a win here will have them topping the table. And I think they’ll do just that.

Prediction: 1-3

Bobo: Luton need to start getting the wins and this home game presents them with that chance. They play a Hammers team that will feel invincible having won against Chelsea and Brighton in successive match days. Luton will be the underdogs here and I think they will surprise West Ham and break that momentum.

Prediction: 2-1

Sheffield United vs. Everton

H2H: W4 D2 L5

Fab: This is straight up a relegation six pointer with both teams unable to register any point so far. At least Sheffield’s losses have been somewhat closer to suggest that they’re inching closer to that maiden win. Everton may have won away at Doncaster in their midweek League Cup tie, but haven’t as yet scored a goal in the league and I’m not entirely convinced they will survive this trip to the Blades.

Prediction: 2-1

Bobo: Sheffield did really well against the defending champions and will feel that they should have got at least a point there. Both teams need to win and this is the perfect match for that. Everton can’t seem to score goals nor defend too well. I think this match gives the promoted unit a chance to get the three points.

Prediction: 2-0

Brentford vs. Bournemouth

H2H: W5 D1 L2

Fab: Brentford are unbeaten in the league so far and looking quite good at it. Bournemouth on the other hand are yet to win and will be looking to stop the rot. Probably only one winner in this and surely it’s the home side.

Prediction: 2-1

Bobo: This seems to be an interesting fixture with two exciting sides. Brentford drew their last match while the Cherries lost. Both teams will want to get back to winning ways. I expect this to be a tight and exciting match with Brentford just about winning it.

Prediction: 3-2

Burnley vs. Tottenham Hotspur

H2H: W4 D4 L13

Fab: I think I’ve massively underrated Spurs so far. On the contrary Angeball seems to be working like a charm! Burnley are yet to carry their red hot Championship form into the Premier League and just maybe there’s a little bit of concern creeping in. This will be their third straight match at home in the league and they’ve lost their last two.Maybe they could try nick a point here, but it seems quite unlikely.

Prediction: 1-3

Bobo: Burnley are still adapting to the Premier League and though they look like they will come around, it has not been easy. Spurs are going about their business well and this match presents them another chance to quietly pick up some important three points as they work to getting back to top four. I think the Spurs team will be a bit too good for Burnley.

Prediction: 1-3

Chelsea vs. Nottingham Forest

H2H: W8 D5 L3

Fab: Chelsea finally won a match in the league after going on a run of six winless matches stretching back three months ago. Just what the doctor ordered, you’d imagine. They will be hoping that winning now becomes a habit. Forest were rather unlucky not to get something from their trip to Old Trafford last weekend but should be encouraged by that display which had them 2-0 up within the first 5 minutes of the game. They will trouble the Blues but just for the fact this game is at Stamford Bridge, they’ll come up short.

Prediction: 2-1

Bobo: Chelsea finally got their win and this may be the push they need to get going. Forest should have got the three points after taking an early lead but they somehow fumbled this and will look to rectify. Forest can score the goals but they need the concentration in defense. This one may end up being a draw.

Prediction: 2-2

Manchester City vs. Fulham

H2H: W20 D10 L4

Fab: The thing with City is that they are just way too good for majority of the rest of the league that they don’t have to hit top form yet or even get out of second gear for most of the matches and they still win. Maybe it’s time they fully came to the party? Fulham were very clinical against Arsenal and managed to salvage a point despite going down to ten men late on. They followed it up by claiming the impressive scalp of Tottenham in the League Cup and suddenly this doesn’t look like a foregone conclusion of a City win. It will be interesting to see if the Cottagers’ exertions will have an effect on a match where they will do more chasing.

Prediction: 4-1

Bobo: Manchester City looked a bit fallible against Sheffield but they know how to get the business done. They know how to get the three points even when things are hard. Their quality means that I may likely predict that they’ll win about 32 times this season. Fulham were quite fortunate to come away with a point last week but they showed their excellent defensive organization. I do not think this will be enough to slow down City.

Prediction: 3-1

Brighton vs. Newcastle United

H2H: W6 D6 L3

Fab: Newcastle’s demolition of Aston Villa on opening weekend now looks like quite a distant memory given how their past two games have panned out. They will be kicking themselves for failing to put Liverpool to the sword and somehow contriving to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory even with a numerical advantage. Brighton themselves were brought down to earth by West Ham and will have to kickstart another run. They are well capable of convincingly beating the Magpies but this feels like it will be a tightly contested scrap with neither side in the mood to cede an inch.

Prediction: 2-2

Bobo: This should be an interesting match. It is definitely my pick of the week for what it means to two teams that were humbled after an explosive start to the season. Brighton’s possession and Newcastle’s one-man advantage did not matter over their last opponents. Both teams have the quality to score and though a bit shaky in defense, are quite solid. I expect that the affair may be quite cagey though I don’t expect Brighton to deviate from their style. I think the teams may end up sharing the spoils.

Prediction: 1-1

Crystal Palace vs. Wolverhampton

H2H: W8 D2 L5

Fab: Palace just concluded the big signing of Arsenal’s defensive stalwart, Rob Holding on deadline day and that just might be the difference needed for the win here. I’m actually being serious. Wolves after all have just sold probably their best player Matheus Nunes to Man City – a decision that’s pretty baffling given their struggles this season. A win for the home side, methinks.

Prediction: 2-0

Bobo: Another interesting fixture with two sides that play some interesting football. The Eagles know how to score and can win more matches while Wolves will need to really step it up to get anything here. I expect it to still be a Palace win and three points at home but they will need to work hard for it.

Prediction: 2-1

Liverpool vs. Aston Villa

H2H: W33 D11 L15

Fab: Credit to Liverpool for not knowing they were beaten and continually digging in to eventually smash and grab the three points at Newcastle – truly phenomenal stuff. They will have to be at their brilliant best and erase the individual errors against Villa or they will be punished. The Villans are on quite some good form and will go into this match with no fear. Tough to call other than for the fact that both teams will score but I’m going to be bold and back the away side.

Prediction: 1-2

Bobo: Another difficult match for Liverpool but they showed their quality with that win over Newcastle. Aston Villa are also a quality team and the signings they have made look good, especially Diaby. Both teams will be feeling good after their weekend wins and will want the high to continue. I think the points will be shared here.

Prediction: 2-2

Arsenal vs. Manchester United

H2H: W19 D20 L32

Fab: United doesn’t seem to be able to figure out Arsenal away these days and probably this encounter could follow the same script. Arsenal let slip their 100% record at home against Fulham and this will be a cause for concern. The Gunners can’t keep clean sheets at home while United aren’t the best of travelers. Mikel Arteta has been accused of tinkering too much with a formula that has been proven to work while he insists it’s all about making his charges unpredictable. The Red Devils have been forced late into the transfer market to solve their defensive and injury woes with deals for Sergio Reguilon and Sofyan Amrabat but will they be ready to feature in this one? Arsenal may be battling with a rather new weight of expectation, but I think they’ll have more than enough to win this.

Prediction: 3-1

Bobo: Probably the most anticipated match of the weekend for most people. Fans of both teams have complains (as always) and expect their team to win by at least five goals. The Gunners should really have done better against Fulham and the Red Devils were quite lucky against Forest. The Gunners are at home and should make this advantage count.

Prediction: 3-1

Fab and Bobo’s Picks – MW3

On By Deryl AdudaIn UncategorizedLeave a comment

Chelsea vs. Luton

H2H: W2 D0 L0

Fab: Chelsea are due that first win, aren’t they? Luton should come into this match the fresher side after having sat out the last round of fixtures. Can they make it count at the Blues? Probably not.

Prediction: 3-1

Bobo: An interesting fixture for both teams. They should both be feeling that they can get something from this game. Chelsea should have done better against the Hammers and Luton had a harder fixture against Brighton. It has not been an easy start to life in the premier league for The Hatters. Chelsea have the quality to win this and I think they just might.

Prediction: 2-1

Bournemouth vs. Tottenham Hotspur

H2H: W2 D2 L8

Fab: The Cherries failed to take advantage of Liverpool being a man less at Anfield last weekend but will be encouraged by the fact that they created a good number of chances. If they can replicate that then they have a good chance of getting a result. Spurs were brilliant against Man United and confidence is high in the camp. Of concern for Ange Postecoglu will be the fitness of James Maddison considering how much of their creativity he’s responsible for. I expect goals and probably for Bournemouth to just edge it.

Prediction: 3-2

Bobo: Tottenham were quality against Manchester United last week. They have their flaws but they are already looking like a well-drilled unit. The Cherries started well against Liverpool and should have done better against the ten men. They just did not have the quality to close out that game or score some more. The Cherries can score but can they really defend when needed to? I think not.

Prediction: 1-3

Arsenal vs. Fulham

H2H: W23 D6 L3

Fab: You could say it was luck or grit that Arsenal managed to get away with the win from Selhurst Park on Monday night after having to play virtually the entire second half a man less. Fulham come to this clash on the back of spanking at home in a London derby against Brentford and the signs seem ominous. The Cottagers have actually never beaten Arsenal on the road and there’s nothing to suggest they’re about to break that streak.

Prediction: 4-1

Bobo: Arsenal have made a good albeit shaky start with their two less-than-comfortable wins. Fulham do not seem too good at the moment and I think the Gunners should be able to continue with their winning start and be a bit more comfortable this time.

Prediction: 3-0

Brentford vs. Crystal Palace

H2H: W0 D4 L0

Fab: Brentford are flying high, scoring goals and generally coping well without talisman Ivan Toney. Palace were unlucky to not get a point against Arsenal and should be encouraged by their second half display. Still, their main problem could be a chronic lack of a goalscorer. It’s just for this reason alone that I fancy the home side to pick up all the points.

Prediction: 2-1

Bobo: An interesting fixture that has not seen any of the teams win in their meetings. I think this is an exciting match and also think that the 100% draw record will continue.

Prediction: 2-2

Everton vs. Wolves

H2H: W6 D6 L6

Fab: Two teams who are probably desperate to face each other clash at Goodison Park. It has been a wretched start of the season for Everton who have lost both games and are still scoreless. Wolves fought bravely at Old Trafford but were brought back down to earth by a ruthless Brighton last weekend. It’s going to be very attritional and even though a draw seems likely, I’ll go with the Toffees just about snatching victory.

Prediction: 1-0

Bobo: Can two teams play a football match and both lose? I think if that was possible then it is exactly what would happen here. Two teams that struggle to score and defend. An early relegation six-pointer. Wolves show more goal-scoring promise and they may just get their first win here.

Prediction: 0-2

Manchester United vs. Nottingham Forest

H2H: W11 D2 L1

Fab: It’s been a terrible week for United with the humbling at Spurs and the backlash from the Mason Greenwood saga so it’s safe to say that a win here would be most precious and timely. Forest got their first win of the season at home to Sheffield and should be buzzing for this trip at a time when their opponents seem really vulnerable. The problem with that though? They almost never win at Old Trafford. United may have their problems, but should be roared to the victory by the crowd.

Prediction: 2-1

Bobo: The Red Devils were so dismal in their last match (and the previous one also, to be honest) while Forest have shown signs of brilliance in their last two matches. The outcome of this match really depends on which United turns up. Forest are looking much better this season and have the source of goals. They will take their chances when handed to them and this is why I think it may be a massive point here for Forest.

Prediction: 1-1

Brighton vs. West Ham United

H2H: W6 D6 L3

Fab: Can high flying league leaders Brighton be stopped? Of course yes, there are teams well capable of doing that. Are the Hammers among them? Probably not. West Ham did well to defeat Chelsea but this is a sterner test. And that’s testament to just how good the Seagulls have become – so good that there’s already talk of them being in the title race. They should be too good for the visitors.

Prediction: 3-1

Bobo: The Seagulls are an exciting unit and they look good every time. They have goals coming from a different array of sources. This means they are almost guaranteed goals. The Hammers took their chances well against Chelsea last weekend but they had luck on their side. Against a team like Brighton, luck may not suffice. I think Brighton will continue with their great start to the season.

Prediction: 3-0

Burnley vs. Aston Villa

H2H: W2 D6 L3

Fab: Burnley return to league action after sitting out last weekend and it will be interesting to see whether the extra rest have energized them. For Aston Villa (and indeed Unai Emery’s sides) you just never know which team will turn up especially on away assignments. They were abysmal at Newcastle and scintillating at home against Everton, so who knows what’s next? There should be goals in the battle of the clarets, and probably honours shared.

Prediction: 2-2

Bobo: Burnley had the extra week of rest which allows their coach time to reflect on the first loss and improve the team. Villa also showed that they had learned their lessons from that first loss and that they have the quality to win and win big. They come up against a more formidable opponent in Burnley but I think Villa have all the quality it takes to win the game.

Prediction: 1-3

Sheffield United vs. Manchester City

H2H: W1 D3 L8

Fab: Can’t see Sheffield winning this one and so should be another win for the Citizens as their title charge gathers pace. Erling Haaland also failed to find the net in their last game and that’s, well, pretty odd. Expect him to resume normal service.

Prediction: 1-3

Bobo: Sheffield will need to start picking up wins but this does not seem like its the game they will do it. City have a perfect start to the season and I expect that this will continue. The win against the Toon made it clear that they are still the team to beat.

Prediction: 1-4

Newcastle vs. Liverpool

H2H: W11 D12 L33

Fab: The pick of the fixtures rightfully comes last and this could be an entertaining one. Both sides play high octane, expansive attacking football and so goals should be aplenty. The Toon lost to the champions but that will not worry them much. Liverpool did manage to get the win at home to Bournemouth but it was anything but straight forward. There’s a certain fragility in their defensive side of the game that many teams in the league will be looking to exploit, Newcastle included. Add to the uncertainty of Saudi interest in Mohamed Salah and the home side must be licking their lips.

Prediction: 3-2

Bobo: The final game of the match day and the game of the week. An exciting fixture. Newcastle showed what they are capable of against Villa and in a way, against the best team in the league too. Liverpool are still looking a bit out of sorts and were quite fortunate to come away with a win in their last fixture. Newcastle will not make such errors and I think they will go back to winning ways.

Prediction: 3-1

Fab and Bobo’s Picks – MW2

On By Deryl AdudaIn Premier LeagueLeave a comment

Nottingham Forest vs. Sheffield United
H2H: W4 D6 L5
Fab: Both sides are still looking for their first win of the season. Forest managed to keep it respectable on their North London trip last Saturday, but probably it’s a case of what if Steve Cooper had been braver from the start. Indeed their late attacking subs brought a lot of discomfort to the Arsenal defence and for this game Anthony Elanga and Taiwo Awoniyi should start. The Blades on the other hand suffered a narrow loss to Crystal Palace on their return to the top flight and you get the feeling it’s only about to get tougher for them. Fully expect the home crowd to roar the hosts to the win.
Prediction: 2-0
Bobo: On the books, this seems a pretty balanced match. Both teams had difficult starts to the league and will be looking to gain a crucial three points. Nottingham seem the better of the teams here but Sheffield were quite alright against a really formidable opponent. I think MD2 will start with a draw.
Prediction: 1-1

Fulham vs. Brentford
H2H: W3 D2 L7
Fab: Fulham did well to grind out a win at Everton and even as they seek to sort out their forward line with the impending departure of Aleksandar Mitrovic should still be favourites for this encounter. Brentford didn’t seem to be doing badly without Ivan Toney. They still managed to get two goals against quality opposition in Spurs and will hope their direct counter attacking display will propel them to the win. Still, I’ve got to go with the Cottagers on this one.
Prediction: 2-1
Bobo: An exciting match for the neutral. Brentford showed that they can hold their own even without Ivan Toney. Fulham got the rather expected win against Everton last weekend and are also looking quite good. This is a tough one given how close the previous fixtures have been. I’ll keep it close and think Brentford have the quality to just edge it and win the away game.
Prediction: 2-3

Liverpool v. Bournemouth
H2H: W12 D1 L2
Fab: Liverpool should be good enough to get their first win at Anfield despite coming out of the Chelsea trip with a somewhat lucky point. They’re still taking hits in their quest to reinforce their midfield, but probably that underbelly won’t be too exposed by a Bournemouth side which might be ruing not getting maximum points in their more winnable fixture last weekend. Liverpool absolutely ran riot in this particular fixture last season and while it won’t be another 9-0 scoreline, the Reds should still win convincingly.
Prediction: 4-1
Bobo: Both teams shared the spoils in their respective matches. Liverpool were not as impressive as I imagined they would be. A small teething problem. They come up against an interesting Bournemouth side. Liverpool have won all the matches they have played against the Cherries at home and I expect this to continue.
Prediction: 3-1

Wolves vs. Brighton
H2H: W2 D7 L5
Fab: Wolves managed to hold their own against Man United at Old Trafford and will feel hard done by considering the penalty decision that wasn’t given in their favour which could have earned them a precious point. Brighton’s quality shone through against debutants Luton and will look to pick up from there. Just maybe though, Wolves should have a steely resolve to avoid the loss.
Prediction: 1-1
Bobo: The Wolves team had an impressive performance against Manchester United. They were hard done by by the poor officiating. They showed that they can hold their own regardless what was happening in the background. Brighton were their usual impressive selves and they have their present and past going for them. I think Brighton will be too good for this Wolves team as they can score the goals. The Wolves will have to improve on the goalscoring front if they want to stay up.
Prediction: 1-4

Tottenham Hotspur vs. Manchester United
H2H: W10 D14 L44
Fab: Spurs adjusted to the loss of Harry Kane by throwing their defenders into the deep end of attack and it paid off with non-regular goalscorers Cristian Romero and Emerson Royal getting the goals. Their overall play was encouraging but the same cannot be said of Man United who were at best plucky and lucky in their win against Wolves. United’s attack (and midfield) will have to greatly improve if they are to get something from this match, which I don’t think they will.
Prediction: 2-1
Bobo: A cagey and feisty affair is how I would describe this. It is so difficult to judge both teams from their first match. The Red Devils were the worse team in their fixture and the same can be said of Spurs. You would also have to go back a while for a Tottenham win against the Red Devils. Manchester United have done traditionally well in this fixture. That said, I think it will end in a draw like the last one because United do not seem comfortable at the moment and neither do Spurs.
Prediction: 2-2

Manchester City vs. Newcastle United
H2H: W30 D10 L9
Fab: This blockbuster is actually the fixture of the weekend and it’s a pointer to how high Newcastle’s stock has risen. Indeed, the league leaders arrive at the Etihad on quite a high after that impressive demolition of Aston Villa and will be looking to cause the upset. The champions didn’t really get out of second gear in their opening fixture but still ran out comfortable winners. That’s the pedigree their opponents have to contend with. It will be interesting to see just how City cope with the absence of their creative hub Kevin de Bruyne who’s out injured for a lengthy spell and of course the Magpies will hope to capitalize on that. This match could go either way and just maybe a draw is a fair result?
Prediction: 2-2
Bobo: This is the pick of the week. An exciting match for all the right and wrong reasons. Newcastle were so impressive against Aston Villa and City were their usual selves. It will be interesting to see how Newcastle handle this challenge. Of the 5 recent meetings, 4 have ended with at least 4 goals. Only the last one ended 2-0. I think the two teams will go back to delivering a high scoring match ending in a draw.
Prediction: 3-3

Aston Villa vs. Everton
H2H: W24 D19 L14
Fab: The Villans are coming from the shock of their last weekend after being annihilated 5-1 by Newcastle and will want to immediately get their confidence back up. Everton look to struggle after failing to even score at home and represent the perfect punch bag for the home side. Villa though are encouraged by how well new signing Moussa Diaby has taken to life at the club and if he’s up for it, they should win.
Prediction: 3-0
Bobo: Villa will want to swiftly forget what happened against the Toons in their opening day. They were not too bad and the injury to Mings definitely played a part in this. The quality of the team is evident and they just need to find the right balance. They come up against the worst finishers in the league. Everton seem like they will continue their woes in front of goal and it will likely be a second loss from two.
Prediction: 3-0

West Ham United vs. Chelsea
H2H: W16 D10 L29
Fab: Chelsea’s new crop of signings showed tremendous courage to take the game to a tricky Liverpool side and it seems that will be the mantra for the Mauricio Pochettino era – no fear. West Ham did reasonably well at Bournemouth despite failing to hold on for the win and will need even more heart for this derby. Moises Caicedo could make his debut after his mega move, and I feel his presence might be the difference.
Prediction: 1-2
Bobo: A London derby that promises to be interesting. Chelsea’s new signings all have a point to prove and if their performance against Liverpool is anything to go by then I expect that they should get on the score sheet. The Hammers are relentless and they will give this Chelsea team a run for their money. I think the Blues will win it but only just.
Prediction: 3-2

Crystal Palace vs. Arsenal
H2H: W4 D8 L16
Fab: Arsenal won on opening weekend despite failing to fire on all cylinders and that could probably be a tad bit concerning. Palace did well to get off the block at Bramall Lane and now retreat to home comforts of Selhurst Park for this London derby. Could be close but the Gunners, even without the sidelined Jurrien Timber should have just enough quality to get it over the line.
Prediction: 0-2
Bobo: Another London Derby and two very exciting teams. Both teams won by the finest of margins on the weekend and both were expected to do a bit better. Their weaknesses were highlighted in that first game and I expect that both managers will address this. Arsenal have great quality at the moment and I think they have enough firepower to shoot down the Eagles. It all just depends on how they use it.
Prediction: 1-3



Fab and Bobo’s Picks – MW1

On By Deryl AdudaIn Premier LeagueLeave a comment

Burnley vs. Manchester City
H2H: W1 D3 L16
Fab: The Vincent Kompany derby is here to kick things off and it couldn’t be more intriguing. No one could have thought that Kompany’s coaching stardom could soar so high when he traded the Jupiler Pro League for the Championship but my oh my! His Burnley side in swashbuckling fashion tore apart the Championship in a manner hardly witnessed before. So, it’s only fair that his maiden bow in the English top flight comes against the club that made him (and that he made). City are reeling off that dramatic Community Shield loss to Arsenal last weekend that may just have given hope to everyone else. My gut says a draw, but Pep Guardiola has traditionally done well against the Clarets so yeah, a win for the champions.
Prediction: 2-3
Bobo: Welcome back to the Premier League Burnley and what a welcome this is! The champions of the top tier and the second tier is a good way to kick off 23/24. Burnley are back and they have a new style this time under the leadership of former Manchester City captain, Vincent Kompany. Manchester City are still the team to beat this season. They may seem weaker but do not be fooled. This will be an interesting match but it should be a win for Manchester City.
Prediction: 1-2

Arsenal vs. Nottingham Forest
H2H: W9 D5 L4
Fab: Arsenal ran riot 5-0 in this fixture last season and it could easily be replicated. Caution though, for the home team, is that they lost to Forest at the City Ground in May. The story this Saturday lunchtime will be about American goalkeeper Matt Turner who could make his Nottingham Forest debut against the club he left just this week. He will no doubt have a point to prove to his former employers who just couldn’t give him the number one shirt. Can Arsenal be more impenetrable at the back at home? It was such a concern last season, their inability to keep clean sheets at the Emirates. Speaking of keepers, could Turner’s replacement (pending confirmation) David Raya make a surprise debut in goal? Probably not, but it should be a statement-making win for title-chasing Arsenal.
Prediction: 4-1
Bobo: Arsenal fans will be hoping that Arsenal have forgotten the end of last season which included a 1-0 loss to the first opponents of this season. Both teams have strengthened and Forest are certainly looking more stable at the start of the season. That said, Arsenal should have the weapons required to get all the three points.
Prediction: 3-1


Bournemouth vs. West Ham United
H2H: W4 D2 L2
Fab: Bournemouth did quite commendably well to retain top flight status last season but they did dispense with the mastermind of that, Gary O’neill and have replaced him with Andoni Iraola, probably hoping for a more continental approach to their game. West Ham have had quite a time in the last 3 months. They won a European title, lost their captain Declan Rice for a (then) British record fee and could still lose another of their key midfielders, Lucas Paqueta to Man City for quite a tidy sum. Still, you wonder if their inability to get deals of their own over line leaves them just a tad bit weak and precarious. I expect their start of the season to be rough, and it will start at the Cherries.
Prediction: 2-1
Bobo: The Cherries are an exciting team and play some beautiful attacking football. West Ham had a paradoxical time last season, winning a European cup and constantly being mentioned in the relegation battle. The Hammers have also lost their best player and do not seem to have adequately replaced him. I think they are in too much of disarray at the moment and the Cherries can capitalize on this.
Prediction: 2-0


Brighton vs. Luton
H2H: W1 D0 L1
Fab: Admit it. You have missed watching Brighton in PL action. Thankfully the wait is over and we get to see what Roberto de Zerbi has in store for us this season. Also, of curiosity is the kind of test that Luton Town will provide after securing promotion via the play offs last season. Either way this has all the hallmarks of a baptism by fire for Luton.
Prediction: 3-0
Bobo: Brighton were so impressive last season and they are likely to better this season even after losing Alexis Mac Allister and the potential loss of Moises Caicedo. I do not know much about Luton but I am excited to have them in the Premier League. This is one of the worst starts they could get though and I expect a resounding win for Brighton.
Prediction: 4-0


Everton vs. Fulham
H2H: W19 D3 L12
Fab: Serial underachievers Everton welcome Fulham to Goodison Park hoping that this season is kinder and that lessons have been learnt. But that’s just it – hope. There isn’t much in terms of what they’ve done in recruitment to suggest that they’ve well and fully turned the corner. Fulham look to pick up from where they left off last season and despite coach Marco Silva having flirted with a mega money move to Saudi Arabia in the summer, they should be able to heap misery on the home side.
Prediction: 1-2
Bobo: A match between last season’s strugglers and a high-flying Fulham team. Everton have only added Ashley Young and Arnaut Danjuma to their ranks. Quite baffling for a team that simply could not score last season. Fulham look set to continue where they left off last season and they will be a thorn on many teams’ sides. I think they will start their challenge with a win and Everton’s struggles will continue from last season.
Prediction: 0-2


Sheffield United vs. Crystal Palace
H2H: W4 D0 L6
Fab: Sheffield make a return to the big time and they welcome a tricky customer in Palace. Even without Wilfried Zaha, you still have to fancy the visitors here. Then again, the Blades at home are no pushovers so the spoils just might be shared.
Prediction: 1-1
Bobo: Crystal Palace were looking good at the end of last season. They have lost Zaha but they still have lots of talent in their team that can make a difference for them. Sheffield have also experienced their own losses and particularly painful is Iliman Ndiaye’s departure. They have also lost James McAtee and Tommy Doyle which makes them seem weak against a really good Eagles side. Still, I do not want to write Sheffield off and I think they will share the spoils at Bramall Lane.
Prediction: 2-2


Newcastle vs. Aston Villa
H2H: W24 D17 L12
Fab: Could Aston Villa be the surprise package of the season? Indeed some pundits are tipping them to gatecrash the top 4 party cum May so maybe there’s something in there? Newcastle themselves will be playing Champions League football and just how ready they are to juggle between domestic and European assignments remains to be seen. Unai Emery came in and transformed the Villans so impressively and with the addition of, in particular, of Moussa Diaby from Bayer Leverkusen, he definitely wants to kick things up a notch. This should be one of the stand out games of the weekend.
Prediction: 2-2
Bobo: This is the match of the gameweek. Two interesting sides on the rise. They were both brilliant last season and they have added some immense talents to their ranks. Sandro Tonali for the Toon and Diaby for Villa are the picks. I think it will be an interesting match, end-to-end stuff with the Toons just about edging it.
Prediction: 3-2

Brentford vs. Tottenham Hotspur
H2H: W1 D2 L2
Fab: Grudge match, anyone? So Spurs wanted Brentford goalie Raya but baulked at his club’s valuation. Weeks later Brentford negotiates with Spurs’ mortal enemy Arsenal for the same player at a reduced valuation and on a loan deal to boot! Even I would be seething. Oh, and there’s the small matter of Spurs’ talisman Harry Kane having just agreed a move away to Bayern Munich and you suddenly wonder how long a season they will be experiencing. The home side too have to embark on life without their main man Ivan Toney who’s serving his suspension after his betting misdemeanors. It will either be feisty or drab, but I fancy Brentford for the win.
Prediction: 2-0
Bobo: Brentford were also a standout team last season while things did not go as well as expected for Spurs. Brentford do not have Ivan Toney for some months while Spurs hired a new coach and added James Maddison to their ranks. This is a difficult one to call and I think it may end up being a draw.
Prediction: 1-1

Chelsea vs. Liverpool
H2H: W27 D24 L28
Fab: Talking of grudge matches, this one is up that same alley. Both clubs, especially Chelsea underperformed during the last campaign and will be looking to right some wrongs to avoid permanent membership in mid-table mediocrity. By the time this match kicks off Moises Caicedo could well be lining up for Liverpool (or could he?) after seeming to be headed to Stamford Bridge all summer. Chelsea could well be still reeling from that smash and grab by the Reds. Christopher Nkunku’s lengthy injury lay off also throws a spanner into the Blues’ works and it remains to be seen where the goals will come from. Liverpool may have lost a number of generals in their midfield engine room including captain Jordan Henderson but they should still have more street-smarts in them to get the result here.
Prediction: 1-2
Bobo: I definitely did not expect such a match on the first day but here we are. Chelsea were a shambles last season. They seemed to have lots of money and no plans. They have done some business but it is not clear what they are trying. We have to wait and see. Liverpool have gone about their business quietly. They have acquired some good players, done their replacements, and look just about set for the new season. This will likely be a break out season for Darwin Nunez and an important one for Cody Gakpo. I think that Liverpool are just a bit more organized and they should get an important 3 points.
Prediction: 1-3

Manchester United vs. Wolves
H2H: W15 D4 L5
Fab: Wolves are anything but headed in the right direction. Julen Lopetegui quit as manager after disagreement with the board on transfer activity and has been replaced by Gary O’neill – hardly the ideal preparation for a trip to, of all places, Old Trafford. United begin life without long serving goalkeeper David De Gea and in his stead there’s the interesting character in Champions League finalist, Andre Onana. The Cameroonian offers what the Spaniard couldn’t with his feet, but can he also offer the reflexes and saves that defined De Gea? Wolves won’t have as much attacking power to bring Onana into sharp focus so probably seems like a heavy win for Erik Ten Hag’s men.
Prediction: 4-0
Bobo: Manchester United are addressing some of the problems that affected them last season. They have a goalkeeper better suited to the modern game and have a striker that may provide much needed goals and upfront play. They are in a good position to retain their top four position, at the very least. Wolves have issues from here to wherever. I’d predict that they are relegation fodder and should be there for the taking for Manchester United. This should be a routine win for the Red Devils.
Prediction: 3-0

Benson Omalla – Boy Wonder

On By Deryl AdudaIn Chapa Dimba na SafaricomLeave a comment

With the game running out and Kisumu Day fans growing ever more restless, an inviting ball is floated into the box where teenage prodigy Benson Ochieng Oluoch – or as he is better known, Benson Omalla – has pulled away from the last line of Orongo School’s defence dragging with him at least 3 defenders. Weighing up his options in next to no time, he opts to chest the ball down in the most nonchalant manner for an onrushing midfielder who drives into the space vacated by Orongo’s backline as they scramble to cover one of the most exciting football talents emerging from the lakeside city. With the goal at his mercy, the aforementioned midfielder tries to lob the keeper. As the ball floats above the keeper’s outstretched hands towards the goal, silence engulfs the cold Kisumu morning. He has to score.

He doesn’t! Incredibly, the lobbed effort is too heavy. Kisumu Day students/fans – some dressed in green sweaters and some in white vests – lined up along the touchline can barely believe what they’ve seen. Their team has squandered yet another opportunity to break the deadlock. Football is a simple game, they say, and yet it is so difficult to do the simple things. But, in one move, Benson Omalla did a very simple thing effortlessly to create space and set up a glorious chance for his team. His movement, his touch, his vision and finally the execution of it all was magic. I travelled 350 kilometres from Nairobi to watch Benson Omalla in Kisumu, and he conjured magic right in front of my eyes.

—

Saturday morning in Kisumu is unusually wet. It had been raining for the entire week leading up to the weekend. I brave the elements and make my way to Kisumu Day where I hope to have an audience with the hottest young talent in the country, a 17-year-old making waves in the Kenya Premier League. My handler, Coach Anthony Oballa, head coach of reigning Chapa Dimba National Champions Mayatta United had made arrangements for me to speak to him. He insisted I do so. If you know Anthony Oballa and what he has been able to achieve in football, then you know his knowledge and judgement of young talent are top-notch. I trust his word.  

It’s the first game of the pool stages of the annual Kisumu Boys Open (KB Open), a competition organized by my alma mater Kisumu Boys that features schools from around Kisumu County. This first match is played at Kisumu Day grounds Coach Oballa informs me that he won’t be present in our meeting with Omalla. So instead he sends Coach Carina Baraza to guide me through security checks at the school gate before I am allowed to speak to Benson. We get in and find shelter under the lush, green trees that perfectly align the streets of Kisumu Day. I notice students slowly gathering around the football pitch as they finish their breakfast – a hearty serving of white porridge and oversized mandazis. It’s time for the game. Shortly after, a group of players burst through the crowd onto the pitch to begin their warm-up. Coach Carina lights up and excitedly points towards the group of players warming up.

 “Ndio yule, ako ndani anatafuta Ball. Amevaa number 10!” 

I clean the raindrops off my glasses as I squint, trying to see that far up the pitch and then I finally see him. Boy wonder. Kisumu Day’s Number 10. School Captain. Chapa Dimba Na Safaricom All-Star. Fresh from scoring a hat-trick in the Kenya Premier League.The pride and hope of Manyatta United, his boyhood club and Awasi border, his birthplace. He stands out from the rest.

Coach Carina pulls him from the rondo he was in and politely asks him to come talk to The Dug Out. He obliges. Great footballers aren’t the greatest talkers. They prefer to do their talking on the pitch. Benson isn’t any different. He is shy and reserved. It’s a trait that runs through the family, a fact I’ll discover later. Soon as I begin speaking to him, we are surrounded by his schoolmates who are eager to listen to him speak. I ask him how he juggles football and schoolwork. He tells me it’s a challenge that has been made easier by his school as they fully support talented students in pursuit of their dreams. For him, the goal is to be a professional footballer. But before he becomes one, he has to strike a critical balance between classwork and his true passion. A candidate in this year’s KCSE, his Form 4 White classmates inform me that any perceived loss of focus by Omalla is unfounded as he performs well in class. “Ako sawa class sana”, they tell proudly me. 

—

From an early age, Benson was destined for greatness. In 2015, while playing for Chipolopolo, he received the Man of the Match award after scoring twice in a game at Kisumu Stadium. He then joined Manyatta United where, under the tutelage of Coach Anthony Oballa and Coach Carina Baraza, he blossomed into a fine striker. “Manyatta United tulianza tukiwa wadogo. Tulianza na Under 12, nikapromotiwa kuenda Under 14, then Under 16, then Senior team.” Omalla recalls. Limited by a lack of training equipment, worn-out footballs, broken cones and uneven training pitch, he was a key cog in the Manyatta United team that won several tournaments including Copa Coca-Cola and the Provincial title. Ultimately, Chapa Dimba na Safaricom became the Everest they wanted to summit.

The 2019 Chapa Dimba Na Safaricom tournament was the platform Benson Omalla craved and when it kicked off, he took his chance with both hands. At only 17 years of age, his performances in the Nyanza Regional Finals drew a lot of interest from scouts and coaches. His brace in the final against Nyamira Boys sealed a 5-0 win, ensuring that he won the Golden Boot with 5 goals and helping his team qualify for the National Finals in Meru. His performances in the Nyanza Regional finals were consistently at high levels. He scored, assisted and led Manyatta United’s forward line with such distinction that his name was one of the first to be considered for the Chapa Dimba All-Star Team. Unsurprisingly, he was bound for Salou, Spain for a 10-day training camp that he credits for his development so far.

Spain was a world away, literally and figuratively. New boots and swag, all-weather pitches, world-class training, La Liga-qualified coaches and a Champions League winner, Luis Garcia, sharing incredible football wisdom all within a span of 10 days. The icing on the cake was the visit to Camp Nou, one of football’s great cathedrals to watch Barcelona beat Getafe 2-0. Benson had learnt the basics of the game during his time at Manyatta United. In Spain, he learnt the finer details of the game. He became more aware of the tactical side and the mental fortitude required to be a star. The coaches emphasized the importance of unreserved dedication to improving one’s self as a player. Watching Barcelona beat Getafe 2-0 just days after their historic collapse at Anfielto Liverpool in the Champions League Semi-Finals perhaps provided the most important lesson of all, dealing with setbacks. Benson saw what he could become, what he could achieve, where he could play and the levels he could reach. Manyatta United had lit the spark. The trip to Spain turned into a burning desire. “Nikimaliza shule (nataka) nicheze kama one or two years (KPL) and then niende abroad” Benson told me.

Duncan Odhiambo, Benson’s younger sibling speaks proudly of his brother. In fact, Benson is his hero. He follows all his games closely. Duncan was at Kisumu Stadium to watch Benson bag his first top-flight hat trick. He giddily tells me, “Alifunga mbili first half, akafunga moja second half”. He was there on November 25th, 2019 to watch Benson score a 91st-minute winner against KCB, securing all three points for Western Stima in a tight Kenya Premier League match. 

Duncan informs me that despite having the world at his feet, Benson has remained grounded and down to earth just as he was before all the attention. He still is the caring and protective big brother. He still walks to school every morning as he used to before. The maturity he’s shown on the pitch is also evident at home as, instead of launching a well-deserved and justified spending spree with his first big cheque after helping Manyatta United lift the Chapa Dimba Na Safaricom National Title, he instead bought household items for his family, the most important being the big tv that is a fixture in their Nyamasaria home today allowing Duncan, Benson and their family to watch their heroes in Europe. Benson Omalla says he models his game to mimic his hero, Marcus Rashford, Manchester United’s young number 10 who is also carrying the hopes and dreams of one of the world’s biggest teams. With such admiration, it is no surprise then that Duncan is following in his big brother’s footsteps by leading the line for Manyatta United’s Under 14 side.

—

Sunday afternoon, Benson would lead his team to yet another title, the KB Open Tournament. The draw against Orongo only served to harden their resolve and they swept away the competition with relative ease. At this moment, education seems to be holding him back as he only plays home games for Western Stima. It’s impractical for him to be involved with the team full-time. Even then, he has contributed seven goals in the KPL this season and is on course for a double-digit tally. He is also the youngest recipient of the Sports Journalist Association of Kenya Player of the Month Award at only 17 years of age. Most importantly, his exploits have inspired a generation of young footballers in Western Kenya and beyond. 

Benson will keep an eye on the Nyanza Region Chapa Dimba na Safaricom from the sidelines. He is ineligible to play by virtue of being a Kenya Premier League player. But he will be cheering on his old side, Manyatta United, hoping that they repeat their triumph last year. His message to the players participating in this year’s edition is to give the competition their all. “Players wakuwe na morale. Chapa Dimba ni real na inapea vijana platform ya kuonekana huku nje.”

*This story was originally published in 2020.