This is a 10* play on Bayern.

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

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on KC.

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

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Austin.

Only four teams have a positive goal differential on the road, and one of those teams is Austin FC. There are only three teams in Major League Soccer with a negative goal differential at home, and one of those is Sporting KC. Ranked dead last in the Western Conference, Sporting KC also has the worst home record in the league. Austin FC leads MLS in scoring with 45 goals in 22 matches, while Sporting KC ranks dead last in the league with just 19 goals in 23 matches. Home field may not make a difference here in tonight's match.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Montreal.

Just last week Montreal was sitting in first place in the Eastern Conference, but after losing on the road at LA they have slipped to third. A home game against the last place team in MLS appears to be a great spot to get back on track. Sporting KC is just 1-2-7 with an MLS worst -16 goal differential in 10 games on the road. Montreal has a fairly average home record with five wins in eight matches, but they did score 16 goals in those games. All three of their home losses came against teams versus a winning record.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Madrid.

Here is what I said about Madrid prior to their win over Manchester City in the Semifinal: " Karim Benzema scored twice for Real Madrid, and he leads all scorers in Champions League play with 14 goals in 10 matches. He's the best player in the world at the moment, so it's expected that he will score at home in the second leg." Madrid scored three goals in five minutes to come back from the dead and eliminate City. Liverpool comes into the Final off a let down on the final day of the Premier League. They appeared to have passed Manchester City on points, but the Citizens staged a late comeback of their own to hold on and win another title. Liverpool has played two draws, and won by a single goal twice in their last five matches. Madrid is 4-0-1 in their last five matches versus Liverpool, and I wouldn't be surprised if this game goes to extra time to decide a winner.

GL,

Jesse Schule

10*

10*

This is a 10* play on Real Madrid +1.5.

Manchester City has no business being such a big favorite here in the first leg of this Champions League tie. While City is under heavy pressure in a heated Premier League battle with Liverpool, Madrid is on the verge of clinching another La Liga title. Karim Benzema looks like the best player in the world at the moment, with a dozen goals in nine matches in Champions League play. Manchester City has injury concerns that might cause Gabriel Jesus to play out of position at right back. We expect a cautious approach from both teams, and a draw seems like a likely result. Only once in the last five head to head meetings has either of these teams won by more than one goal.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Over.

There are only three teams in the Premier League that have scored 30 or more goals as well as conceded 30 or more goals. Two of those teams will play each other on Saturday when Manchester United hosts West Ham United. The Hammers have scored two or more goals in each of their last five matches, and they have scored 41 goals in 22 matches in the Premier League this season. These two teams are fighting for a spot in the Champions League, and we should see an exciting game with both teams scoring here at Old Trafford.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Over 2.5.

Brighton Hove Albion is coming off a pair of 2-2 games against Premier League powerhouses Liverpool and Leicester. They host Newcastle today, and they have won their last two versus Newcastle by a combined score of 6-0. Newcastle has conceded 23 goals in 10 matches so far this season, only Norwich has conceded more. The good news for Newcastle is that they have only been held scoreless in one of their last eight matches, scoring nine goals during that span. Expect a high score here.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the Under.

The Wolverhampton Wanderers, otherwise known as "Wolves", will host Newcastle United on Saturday, and we shouldn't expect to see a high score here. Newcastle is coming off consecutive 1-1 draws, while Wolves has gone under in four of their last five matches in all competitions. Goals have been few and far between for Wolves, scoring in just three of their six matches. The good news is that they have only conceded five goals in those games. History paints a pretty clear pitcture, as the last four head to head meetings all ended with the same score (1-1 draw).

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Chelsea.

Chelsea sits in a first place tie with Liverpool, and they host fifth place Manchester City on Saturday. While City are defending champions, they failed to land a striker this summer, while rivals Chelsea and Manchester United signed the likes of Lukaku and Ronaldo. Manchester City was fortunate to come away with a draw at home versus Southampton last weekend, and they could be in trouble here at Stamford Bridge. The last time these teams played head to head was in the Champions League Final, and Chelsea won that game 1-0. Chelsea has won three straight versus City, posting a clean sheet in two of those wins.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Over 2.5.

Two of the top teams in the Premier League will meet in London on Sunday, and I expect to see plenty of scoring when the Hammers host the Red Devils. West Ham has not lost in four Premier League matches so far, and they have scored 10 goals in those games. Manchester United has scored 11 goals in four matches, settling for three wins and a draw. Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice in a 4-1 win over Newcastle in his Red Devils debut (2nd stint), and he's sure to find the net here in London. Manchester United won 3-1 the last time they played at West Ham.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Over 2.5.

Arsenal sits dead last in the Premier League table, and coach Mikel Arteta is on the hot seat. They host Norwich City, and these teams have a history of playing high scoring games. Both clubs are winless in the Premier League with a -9 goal differential, and both teams won by a score of 6-0 in their respective Carabao Cup matches against Championship clubs. I wouldn't fancy either of these teams to post a clean sheet, and I expect a high score here in London. The last three head to head meetings all went over the total.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Chelsea.

Chelsea finished fourth in the Premier League last season, but they won the Champions League Final versus Manchester City. They were a different team after Thomas Tuchel took over for Frank Lampard. They went on a spending spree last summer, and have since added more big names ahead of this season. The likes of Werner and Havertz should be better in their second year at the club, while Romelu Lukaka is a familiar face in the Premier League. Arsenal is a bit of a mess, and they aren't at a level that would allow them to compete with the top five clubs in the league. The Gunners haven't won in five matches, and they have only scored once in their last three matches.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Italy.

England fans fancy their team as the favorites to win the Euro, but perhaps Graeme Souness said it best:

"If I was Gareth Southgate, sitting down to write his Russia 2018 report for the FA, then top of my notepad would be the following – never allow that song, 'Football's Coming Home', to be played again during a major tournament," declared Souness.

"Football's coming home, is it? So, England effectively own the sport. I don't think so.

"They didn't have a monopoly on it when their teams and the FA were big players in the global power game back in the last century, and they don't now."

Their win over Denmark was a result of a controversial penalty that Kane missed, but had the good fortune to score on the rebound. All the pressure is on the English here in the Final, and they are up against an Italian side that is unbeaten in their last 33 matches.

GL,

Jesse Schule

10*

This is a 10* play on England.

Denmark takes on England in the Euro Semifinal, and the Danes will be playing the roll of Cinderella. Denmark is coming off a win over the Czech Republic, a match that they were favored to win, while England is coming off a 4-0 win over the Ukraine. The Three Lions still haven't conceded a goal in this tournament, and that bodes well here against the Danes. Denmark did win their last game against England 1-0 in 2020. England had two players sent off with red cards, and played the majority of that game with 10 men. The Three Lions were 3-0-1 in the previous four versus Denmark. Harry Kane got off to a slow start at the Euros, but he's found his form here in the last few games. I like England to cruise into the Finals with a decisive victory.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Ukraine.

A 3-2 loss to Netherlands in their opening match was actually quite an impressive result for Ukraine. After going down early, they battled back to draw even at 2-2. Even though they lost on a late goal, the two goals will put them in good standing to advance from the first round. Northern Macedonia lost their first match by a score of 3-1, and they are likely over their heads in this tournament. Not only is Northern Macedonia 0-1-2 in their last three matches versus Ukraine, but they didn't score a single goal in those matches.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on England.

The Three Lions come into the Euros hoping to avenge a disappointing loss to Croatia in the semifinals of the 2018 World Cup. England has won five straight matches heading into the tournament, and they won their last match versus Croatia by a score of 2-1 back in 2018. Croatia hasn't look good at all in recent matches leading up to the tournament. They are 2-1-2 in their last five matches, with losses to Belgium and Slovenia, and a draw against Armenia. England on their home soil, should be able to get a win here over Croatia team that isn't on top form.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Everton.

It should come as no surprise that Everton has returned to form. They got off to a hot start this season, before enduring a tough stretch of mediocrity. They come into this home match versus Fulham with points in four of their last five matches. They earned a spirited draw at Old Trafford last weekend, and then they won a thriller by a score of 5-4 over Tottenham in the FA Cup mid week. While they will miss their top goal scorer, they still have superior quality in the ranks in comparison to their opponent. "We have back Andre Gomes, James, Josh King, and in the next week we think Allan will be back, so the squad is ready for the next games," Ancelotti said.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Over 2.5.

Arsenal has struggled of late, losing back to back games by a combined score of 6-2. They will be tested here on Boxing Day, hosting a Chelsea team that has scored 29 goals in just 14 matches. These teams have a history of playing high scoring games, with each of the last four meetings going over the total. Chelsea has the second best goal differential in the Premier League (+15).

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Seattle.

The Sounders are the defending champions, and they are coming off an impressive win in their Semi Final match versus Minnesota. After a disallowed goal, they found themselves trailing with just a minute remaining in regulation. After scoring the equalizer in the 89th minute, they got the game winner in the third minute of extra time. Columbus has had an outstanding season, but with a pair of key midfielders set to miss the Final, they are at a disadvantage. Seattle may also find an advantage in set pieces, as they ranked second in the MLS in scoring off such plays.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Under.

Both the Houston Dynamo and FC Dallas rank near the bottom of MLS in scoring, and recent head to head meetings have been low scoring. Dallas has failed to score a goal in two of it's last three versus Houston, and the Dynamo have scored just three goals in the last three head to head matches. Dallas has gone under in each of it's last five MLS matches, while Houston has gone under in six of it's last eight overall. It's tough to see these teams combining to score more than three goals.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on AC Milan.

Celtic will be the home team in Thursday's Europa League clash versus Italian Giants AC Milan, but there won't be any fans in attendance. Milan currently sits top of the table in Series A, while Celtic sits second in the Scottish League coming off a 2-0 loss to Rivals Rangers. Celtic will be shorthanded for this match. Scotland international James Forrest and young winger Mikey Johnston are both out with injuries. Midfielder Ryan Christie, Israel international Nir Bitton and defender Hatem Abd Elhamed all tested positive for Covid-19, and it's almost certain they won't be available to face Milan. Celtic has lost four of their last five versus Milan, and I expect history to repeat itself here on Thursday.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Over.

The Merseyside Derby has been very one-sided for decades, but this Saturday's match between Liverpool and Everton is a little different. So far it's Everton sitting top of the table in the Premier League, and they have scored 12 goals in just four matches. The defending champions have struggled on defense so far, allowing 11 goals in four matches. They haven't had any trouble scoring goals, with 11 in four matches. I am going to go out on a limb and predict an exact score of 2-2.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Portland.

Real Salt Lake may not have the luxury of focusing on football in this match, as the club is mired in controversy. Dell Loy Hansen (club owner) made the following comments about the players decision to boycott their last match: "It's taken a lot of wind out of my sails, what effort I want to put into recruiting players and building a great team," Hansen said. "It just seems that's not a very good path to take." His criticism of the players has not been well received, and he is now facing an MLS investigation into alleged racist remarks. Players are demanding he sell the team. They will be on the road at Portland, facing the champions of the MLS is Back Tournament in Portland.

Take the Timbers.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Bayern Munich.

I've been calling Bayern Munich the best team in Europe since the return to play back in May. They have certainly looked the part, winning their last three Champions League matches by a combined score of 15-3. Their 8-2 win over Barcelona will not soon be forgotten. Paris has taken a much different path, needing to rally with two late goals to escape what looked like a sure defeat to Atletico Madrid. Simply put, it seems that Bayern is in a class of it's own, and Paris is unlikely to match them.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Real Madrid +1.

I had Real Madrid in the first leg, and here is what I said prior to that match: "Manchester City will head into the first leg of this Champions League tie looking to survive with a chance to win the second leg at home at the Etihad in March. Real Madrid is undefeated at home in domestic competition, and they are also undefeated at home in the Champions League. Real Madrid has won this competition seven times, while Manchester City has suffered many disappointments. Madrid is in first place in Spain, with a +26 goal differential, while the Citizens are just the second best team in the Premier Leaague. It will be quite tough for City to come away with a win here, but a close loss with an away goal would still be a solid result."  Now that City has a lead on aggregate as well as away goals, they can sit back and play for a draw. The problem is that City isn't a team designed to play defense, and that leaves them vulnerable to an upset.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Over 2.5.

It was supposed to be an all Manchester Final in the FA Cup (according to the bookmakers), but Chelsea and Arsenal each recorded upsets in the semi finals. Neither of these two clubs are among the top defensive teams in England. Chelsea conceded 54 goals this season, while Arsenal conceded 48. David Luiz broke a Premier League record, conceding the most penalties in a season (5). These teams have a history of playing high scoring games, going over 2.5 in four of their last five matches. Three of those games saw 4+ goals combined.

Take Over.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the Portland Timbers.

After winning their first two games of the group stages, Portland played a 2-2 draw against an LAFC team that was by far the best in MLS last year. They face Cincinnati in this elimination game Tuesday, and Cinci bounced back with a pair of wins after getting blown out by a score of 4-0 in their opening match versus Columbus. This Cincinnati team finished last year with the worst goal differential in MLS (-44). That's twice as bad as the second worst Vancouver (-22). I am not reading too much into their wins against a shorthanded Atlanta team and a Red Bulls squad that outshot them 19-4.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Manchester United.

The hottest team in England right now is Manchester United. The come into Sunday's FA Cup Semi Final versus Chelsea undefeated in their last 19 matches in all competitions. They have had Chelsea's number winning four of the last five meetings, with one draw. Chelsea has also been moving up the table since the restart, but they have looked awfully sloppy at times. They have lost twice in their last five matches, falling 3-0 to Sheffield United, and 3-2 to West Ham. While Chelsea has a one point lead in the Premier League standings, the goal differential tells a different story. Manchester United is +28 compared to Chelsea's +15.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Leicester.

AFC Bournemouth is facing relegation, so you would think they would have plenty of motivation. That would be true in most circumstances, but with the return to play during a global pandemic, not everyone is putting top priority on football. Given that they have just four matches remaining all against challenging opponents, their chances of avoiding relegation appear to be slim to none. They are winless in their last nine matches, and the only reason they salvaged a draw against Spurs the other day was due to a poor call from VAR. Harry Kane should have had a penalty in the first half, but for some reason VAR controversially ruled no penalty. Leicester is now just one point ahead of Manchester United for the final Champions League spot, so this is a must win.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Watford.

Norwich City will be relegated, there is little doubt about that. The question is who will be joining them. At the bottom of the table you have Bournemouth, Aston Villa and Watford separated by a single point. Watford is winless in their last five matches, with their last win coming by a score of 3-0 over Liverpool. They come into this match needing a win, and their opponent isn't likely to provide much resistance. Norwich has been held scoreless in five of their last six matches, and they have scored the fewest goals in the league this season.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Lazio

After going up 2-0 early against Atalanta, Lazio went on to lose by a score of 3-2 in their last match. Atalanta might be the only team in the Series A capable of such a stunning comeback, and the result was a major setback for Lazio's title hopes. They enter today's match sitting seven points back of first place Juventus, and that makes this a must win. Lazio is 4-0-1 in it's last five matches versus Fiorentina, and the underdogs don't have much to play for. Safe from relegation, Fiorentina might just throw in the towel against a highly motivated opponent.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Borussia Dortmund.

I bet on Dortmund in there first game back, and they didn't disappoint in a 4-0 win over rivals Schalke. Here is what I said prior to the match: "This looks like a mismatch on paper, when you consider Dortmund has scored more than twice as many goals (68) as Schalke (33). While momentum seems to have been lost, it might be logical to expect a team competing for the top spot in the Bundesliga to have taken their fitness more seriously during the layoff. Without fans there won't be much of a home field advantage..." This week they face Wolfsburg, and they need maximum points to keep pace with first place Bayern Munich. Wolfsburg didn't look sharp in their first game back, playing to a 1-1 draw after 90 minutes, but scoring the match winner in injury time versus FC Augsburg. Wolfsburg is 0-4-1 in their last five matches versus Dortmund, and they haven't scored a single goal in any of those five contests.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Bayer Leverkusen.

It's been a tough season for Werder Bremen, conceding a league worst 55 goals and sitting just one point ahead of last place SC Paderborn 07 (honeslty can't tell you anything about them).  Bremen is 0-4-1 in their last five matches, and they host a Leverkusen side that is 4-0-1 in their last five matches. Home field isn't expected to have much significance without any fans in attendance, and as I have noted in recent days, the teams competing at the top of the table are expected to have taken their fitness more seriously during the long layoff.  An additional week of training should also benefit Leverkusen.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Real Madrid.

Manchester City will head into the first leg of this Champions League tie looking to survive with a chance to win the second leg at home at the Etihad in March. Real Madrid is undefeated at home in domestic competition, and they are also undefeated at home in the Champions League. Real Madrid has won this competition seven times, while Manchester City has suffered many disappointments. Madrid is in first place in Spain, with a +26 goal differential, while the Citizens are just the second best team in the Premier Leaague. It will be quite tough for City to come away with a win here, but a close loss with an away goal would still be a solid result.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Leipzig +0.5.

Tottenham is coming off a 3-2 win at Aston Villa, and Son Heung Min scored the winning goal in injury time. We have since learned that Son will likely miss the rest of the year with a broken arm. Already without Harry Kane, and struggling on defense, it's going to take a miracle for Tottenham to avoid crashing out of the Champions League. Jose Mourino's squad was quite fortunate to have won their last match against a bottom feeder in the Premier League. This is a huge step up in class facing a team that is competing for top spot in the Bundesliga.

Take Leipzig.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Over 2.5.

Liverpool sits 13 points clear of second place Manchester City in the Premier League standings, and they come into Thursday's game against Wolves as winners of nine straight matches in all competitions. They haven't conceded a single goal in seven straight matches. Wolves aren't an easy out at home, where they have scored 17 goals in 11 matches. Liverpool though has scored 21 goals in just 10 away matches. The last time Liverpool played on this pitch they lost 2-1 in last year's FA Cup. I expect to see at least three goals in this match.

Take Over.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Over 2.5.

Chelsea sits fourth in the Premier League table, and they come into Saturday's home fixture versus Burnley off a 2-0 win over Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup. Clean sheets have been few and far between for Chelsea, and they have conceded a whopping 29 goals in 21 matches. Burnley can certainly score, they have 24 goals in 21 matches.  Chelsea hasn't been all that strong at Stamford Bridge, with just a +1 goal differential. These two teams have scored at least three goals combined in the last five head to head meetings, and they have scored at least four in each of the last three meetings.

Take Over.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Over 2.5.

The Spurs played Wolves twice in 2018, and they won both scoring a combined six goals in those games. Wolves wasn't an easy opponent, scoring three goals of their own in those matches. Tottenham has been scoring plenty of goals lately, with at least three goals in each of their last six matches. They have also conceded their share, allowing eight goals in their last six matches. They posted just one clean sheet during that span, in a 5-0 win over Burnley. Wolverhampton hasn't had any trouble scoring either, with two or more goals in five of their last six matches. We aren't likely to see either team post a clean sheet here on Sunday.

Take Over.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Chelsea +1.5.

Manchester City is coming off a devastating loss to Liverpool before the international break, a result that makes it highly unlikely that they will repeat as league champions. Chelsea now sits ahead of City in the Premier League table, and the Blues come into the Etihad as winners of seven straight league matches. Chelsea has all the momentum in their favor, while City is in a bad place at the moment. My money is on Chelsea to give the Citizen's all they can handle.

Take CHE.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Liverpool.

It's been clear very early this season that Liverpool is the team to beat in the Premier League. Last week City had to come from behind and score in the dying minutes to beat a Southampton side that is facing relegation. Poor defending has plagued City since the beginning of the season, as evidenced by losses to Norwich and Wolverhamton just a few weeks apart. Liverpool has the edge in the last five head to head matches (2-2-1) and Liverpool is 22-0-2 at Anfield the last two seasons.

Take Liverpool.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Over 2.5 goals.

Chelsea comes into Saturday's match versus Burnley in top form, the Blues have won five straight matches in all competitions. Chelsea sits fourth in the Premier League table, and their 19 goals for are just two less than first place Liverpool. The difference is that Chelsea has also conceded 14 goals, which is twice as many as Liverpool. Recent matches versus Burnley have been high scoring, with three or more goals scored in each of the last four meetings. The last time these two teams met the result was a 2-2 draw. I fancy Burnley to get a goal here, but I don't think it will be enough to salvage any points.

Take Over.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on AFC Bournemouth.

Norwhich City is coming off three straight losses by a combined margin of 9-1. This follows their stunning upset win over Manchester City, which appears to be an outlier, rather than the type of performance you can expect week to week. That was also a home game, and Norwich 0-4 with a -9 goal differential in away matches (worst in the Premier League). Bournemouth has a winning record with a positive goal differential in home matches dating back to last season, and this is a team that is poised to secure a spot in the top half of the table.

Take Bournemouth.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Over 2.5.

Both Bournemouth and West Ham are off to a great start in the Premier League, sitting 5th and 6th respectively in the table. That's above Tottenham and Manchester United. These teams can certainly score. Bournemouth scored three in a 3-1 win over Southampton in their last match, and prior to that they defeated Everton by a score of 3-1. West Ham is coming off a 2-0 win over Manchester United. In the last five head to head meetings, both teams scored in four of those matches. 

Take Over.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on LA Galaxy.

When Zlatan Ibrahimovic landed in LA in 2018, LeBron James had just signed with the Lakers. Zlatan was asked to comment about coming to LA, and he said "now LA has a King and a God." At the time it seemed a little over the top, but he since established himself as the most dominant player that MLS has ever seen. He's scored 26 goals this season, just two fewer than Carlos Vela of LAFC. The Galaxy are moving up in the standings, and they host a Montreal team that is coming off a home loss to expansion team Cincinnati. You could call this a must win for Montreal, but if they can't beat Cincinnati at home, are the playoffs at all a realistic goal? I like LA to walk all over the Impact here in this game.

Take LA.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Over 2.5.

It has been a successful return to the Premier League for Norwich City, scoring six goals in three matches. While they have just one win (3-1 over Newcastle), their losses have come to top clubs Chelsea and Liverpool. Scoring a pair of goals at home in a 3-2 loss to Chelsea suggests that this team can find the net. They face a West Ham team on Saturday that has had all sorts of trouble keeping opponents off the score sheet. West Ham has conceded a Premier League worst seven goals in three matches, and few teams conceded more goals than the Hammers last season. History suggests we should see some scoring in this match, as the last two meetings ended in a 2-2 draw.

Take Over.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Over 2.5.

AFC Bournemouth scored 56 goals in the Premier League season, the most of any team outside the top 6. They weren't quite as sharp on defense, conceding 70 goals, the most of any team that avoided relegation. They will play at Villa Park on Saturday, and Aston Villa is coming off a 3-1 loss to Spurs in their first game back in the Premier League. These two teams have gone over in two of the last three head to head matches, and I expect to see another sloppy game with plenty of goals here in this match.

Take Over.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Atlanta FC.

I bet on Atlanta in their last home match, and they defeated the LA Galaxy by a score of 3-0. Here is what I said prior to the match: "The defending champions got off to a brutal start to the season, but Atlanta comes into today's home game versus the LA Galaxy with the second best home record in all of MLS. They have lost just one in 12 home matches this season." I also bet on NYFC in their last home match, but their win over Houston was far from impressive. They needed a late goal to win 3-2 against a Dynamos side that was down to 10 men for the entire second half.

Take ATL.

GL,

Jesse Schule

10*

This is a 10* play on Toronto FC.

Toronto is coming off a 3-1 home loss to Houston, the team with the MLS worst road record. A week later they host a Cincinnati team that has allowed an MLS worst 51 goals. Toronto rested several starters in the first half in their loss to Houston, and they payed the price. Expect a far stronger lineup here on Saturday. Cincinnati is coming off back to back losses by a combined score of 6-1, and they rank dead last in MLS with a -30 goal differential. They are 2-1-9 with a -21 goal differential on the road. This is a far bigger mismatch that the price would suggest.

Take TOR.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on over 2.5.

Toronto FC now has everybody back from international assignments, and they have won back to back games by a combined score of 5-1. They host Houston Saturday, and the Dynamo have lost three straight by a combined score of 11-3. Houston has been plagued by sloppy defending all season, and that is especially true on the road. The Dynamo are 1-8 with a -13 goal differential in nine matches on the road this season. This should be another blowout loss for Houston.

Take Over.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Mexico.

The USA Women already won the World Cup Final earlier in the day, but don't count on the men making it a clean sweep in the evening. They face a far more talented Mexican squad, and they just don't have the experience to match up against Mexico. History certainly favors the Mexicans, as they have defeated the USA in four of the last five meetings in the Gold Cup Final. USA will miss the likes of Michael Bradley and Jose Altidore.

Take MEX.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Germany.

The Germans have won all four of their matches at this World Cup, and they have posted clean sheets in all four of those games. They will meet Sweden in the Quarterfinals, and they are 4-0-1 in the last five head to head matches versus the Swedes. The Swedes lost 2-0 to the United States, and they really were not all that competitive in that game. Prior to that they won three straight matches against inferior teams, but didn't look all that sharp in any of those wins. They were quite fortunate in their win over Canada, and the Canadians failed to take advantage of several quality chances, including a missed penalty.

Take GER.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Netherlands.

I won with Netherlands in their last match, a win over Japan. Here is what I said prior to that game: "The Dutch ladies come into the knockout round as winners of all three of their group stage matches, and they have won five straight in all competitions by a combined score of 16-2. They are great at using a size advantage on set pieces setting up headers in the box." They face Italy in the Quarterfinals, and the Italians coming off a 2-0 win over China. I've been far more impressed with the Dutch in this tournament, and I expect them to handle Italy.

Take NED.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the Netherlands.

The Dutch ladies come into the knockout round as winners of all three of their group stage matches, and they have won five straight in all competitions by a combined score of 16-2. They are great at using a size advantage on set pieces setting up headers in the box. This should be particularly difficult to deal with for a Japan team who's ladies are much smaller than the Dutch. Japan has just one win in it's last four matches, and they didn't look all that sharp in a 2-0 loss to England.

Take NED.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on USA.

Sweden has been one of the top teams in Women's soccer in recent seasons, and they have beaten the Americans at the World Cup in 2011. The Swedes are 1-1-3 in the last five head to head matches, but I haven't been all that impressed with Sweden at this tournament. A 5-1 win over Thailand wasn't as impressive as the score would indicate, and their win over Chile wasn't convincing either. This USA team has already made it clear that they will take as many goals as they can get, and I expect them to fill the net once again here against Sweden.

Take USA.

GL,

Jesse Schule

10*

This is a 10* play on LA Galaxy.

Zlatan came off his suspension and didn't waste any time making his mark. Ibrahimovic scored and added an assist in a 2-0 win over Kansas CIty last week. He faces plenty of criticism for his bad attitude, his arrogance and his overall bad behavior. His talent though is undeniable, outside of Messi and Ronaldo, he is probably the best pure scorer in the world. At 37 years old he must be past his prime? His 10 goals in 11 matches this season tell a different story. He faces a New England team that has conceded an Eastern Conference worst 32 goals, and the result should be another easy W for LA.

Take LA.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Liverpool.

Manchester City just barely edged out Liverpool for first place in the Premier League this season. It came down to the final day, with City winning the league by a single point. Liverpool scored 89 goals in 38 matches (22 more than Spurs). They conceded just 22 goals (17 fewer than Spurs). Tottenham is only in the finals after a controversial win over Manchester City, and a shocking come from behind win over Ajax. This Spurs side is lucky to be here, and I expect them to be outclassed in the Final by a superior Liverpool squad. Harry Kane is set to return from an ankle injury. Asked whether Kane would play against Liverpool in Madrid, Pochettino said: "I can't say he's 100%, whether he will be available or on the bench or out, but we are so happy and positive about his progression.

Take Liverpool.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the San Jose Earthquake.

The newest team in the MLS (Cincinnati) comes into Saturday's match at San Jose as losers of four straight. What's worse is that they failed to score in all four of those games. San Jose has just two wins this season, but they are 2-2-1 in their last four overall, and they have won their last two home games by a combined score of 7-1. Shea Salinas is in scorching form for the Eathquakes, scoring three times in his last three matches. San Jose is 2-2-1 when he's in the starting lineup, and 0-3 when he doesn't start.

Take SJ.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Over 3.

The last time we saw the Manchester Derby play such a key role in the Premier League Title was back in 2009. These two teams put on quite a show in that game, Manchester United scored the winner in injury time, and the Red Devils won by a score of 4-3. I expect today's game to be another classic, and we should see plenty of scoring. Manchester City is coming off an epic Champions League defeat to Tottenham, winning 4-3 but losing on Aggregate because of the away goals. The potential winner for Manchester City was disallowed by VAR. Manchester United has been dreadful defensively, and they allowed four goals in a loss to Everton over the weekend. This game should be a shootout.

Take Over.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Over 2.5.

The San Jose Earthquakes have lost five of six games so far, with a -10 goal differential. They host Kansas City on Saturday, and KC is just 2-3-1 despite  a +7 goal differential. Neither of these two teams are great defensively, and we should see an open game here tonight. We've seen a combined 10 goals in the last two head to head meetings between these teams, and KC has allowed a whopping 13 goals in their last four games overall. San Jose has seen at least three goals combined in all six of their games this season.

Take Over.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Liverpool.

Liverpool comes into Sunday's home match versus Chelsea sitting two points clear of Manchester City at the top of the table. They can't afford to slip up here at home if they want to hold off Manchester City in a heated battle for the Premier League Title. Chelsea is coming off three straight wins, but those results weren't all that impressive. Their win over Cardiff City at the end of March was aided by a controversial "offside" goal with only six minute left on the clock. Liverpool hasn't lost at Anfield this season, boasting a home record of 14-0-2. They have a +36 goal differential in those matches.

Take Liverpool.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Over 2.5.

The honeymoon phase is over at Old Trafford, and after a record start under Ole Gunna Soslkjaer the Red Devils have lost conecutive league matches, and have conceded six goals in their last three matches. They scored just one goal while losing back to back away games, but a return to Old Trafford could spark the offense. Romelu Lukaku failed to score in a loss to Arsenal before the break, but he scored six goals in his previous three starts. Only three teams in the Premier League have scored more goals that Manchester United (58). The Red Devils host Watford, who are firmly in the top half of the table despite a negative goal differential on the season. We should see a high scoring game in Manchester.

Take Over.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on [email protected] to go Over the total.

LAFC was one of the highest scoring teams in the MLS last year, and they are coming off a 4-1 home win over Portland last week. New York FC opened the season with a 2-2 draw versus Orlando, but they played to a 0-0 draw last week versus DC United. These teams have only met once in the MLS, playing to a 2-2 draw. New York finished in third in the Eastern Conference last year, and this team has plenty of goal scoring talent. We should see an exciting game here at Yankee Stadium.

Take Over.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on West Ham.

Huddersfield Town has a stranglehold on last place in the Premier League table, with just three wins in 30 matches this season. They come into this weekend's match at West Ham as losers of six of their last seven matches, and they failed to score a goal in five of those games. West Ham has won six straight at home, and they sit in the top 10 in the Premier League table. The Hammers have won two of the last three head to head meetings versus Huddersfield by a combined score of 7-2. I expect West Ham to take full points from a home match versus the worst team in the Premier League.

Take WHU.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Juventus.

I picked Juventus to win the Champions League this season, and here is what I said before the season started: "The Series A champs came very close to winning the Champions League in 2017, losing in the Final to Cristiano Ronaldo and Real Madrid. They lost again to Madrid in last year's competition. Ronaldo is the All Time leading scorer in Champions League play, and was perhaps the most impressive player at the 2018 World Cup. There is no doubt in my mind that he still has plenty left in the tank, and bringing him in will make Juventus the favorite to win this year's competition." They sit 16 points clear at the top of the table in the Series A, and they have conceded just 16 goals in 26 matches. They need a miracle here in the second leg of this tie versus Atletico, but just ask Machester United if miracles can happen?

Take JUVE.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Leicester City.

Leicester City has but one win in their last five matches, but that's one more than Fulham has in their last five. Fulham isn't quite the worst team in the Premier League, or at least they don't rank last in points. That distinction belongs to Huddersfield. Fulham though has allowed a Premier League worst 65 goals in 29 matches, and they do have the worst away record in the Premier League. As mediocre as Leicester is, the Foxes are undefeated at home during the Brendan Rogers era.

Take Leicester.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Over 2.5.

Defending MLS champs Atlanta will begin their season on the road at DC United. Heading into this match, Atlanta played two matches in CONCACAF Champions League and a friendly versus LAFC. All three of those games saw at least four goals. Last year's leading scorer in MLS Josef Martinez scored twice in Atlanta's last match. Each of the last three meetings between Atlanta and DC United have ended with a score of 3-1. We should expect plenty of goals here in this season opening match.

Take Over.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Over 2.5.

Southampton will host Fulham on Wednesday, in a battle of the bottom feeders in the English Premier League. Neither of these two clubs have had any success defending this season, allowing 111 goals between them. Fulham ranks dead last in the Premier League conceding 61 goals in total this season. The Saints have allowed multiple goals in each of their last seven matches, and during that span they scored nine goals. Southampton has scored 14 goals in their last nine home matches.

Take Over.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on West Ham.

Fulham has allowed more goals than any other club in the Premier League this season, and they have been particularly poor in away matches. They rank dead last in the Premier League with an 0-2-11 record in 13 away matches, and they have a -24 goal differential in those games. West Ham sits right in the middle of the Premier League table, and they come into this match versus Fulham with 18 goals in 13 home matches. Fulham has lost it's last two matches at West Ham by a combined score of 6-0. This figures to be another one sided match in favor of the home team.

Take WHU.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Over 2.5.

The Red Devils are a different team since they sacked Jose Mourino. They have really opened up with a less conservative style of play, and the results speak for themselves. Wins over Cardiff City, AFC Bournemouth and Huddersfield Town have come by a combined score of 12-3. They come off a 3-0 win over Fulham on Saturday, and they host PSG in the first leg of a Champions League tie this afternoon. PSG is in rough shape, with two of it's three Super Stars sidelined by injury. Edinson Cavani and Neymar have scored 30 goals between them, but Killian Mbappe has netted 18 goals in just 20 matches. All three players scored in a 4-1 win over Red Star Belgrade in their last Champions League match. I expect to see an exciting match here at Old Trafford, and I don't fancy either team to post a clean sheet.

Take Over.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Over 2.5.

The Red Devils are a different team since they sacked Jose Mourino. They have really opened up with a less conservative style of play, and the results speak for themselves. Wins over Cardiff City, AFC Bournemouth and Huddersfield Town have come by a combined score of 12-3. They will play at Fulham Saturday, and Fulham has conceded a Premier League worst 55 goals this season. They lost 4-1 at Old Trafford earlier this season, and four of the last five matches between these clubs have seen at least four goals. Fulham scored four goals in a 4-2 win over Brighton Hove Albion in their last home game, and they've scored at least once in five straight at home.

Take Over.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on West Ham vs Fulham over 2.5.

Fulham has been by far the worst team in the Premier League this season, and relegation appears inevitable. They have conceded a whopping 40 goals in 16 matches, the most of any team in the Premier League. They have scored four times in their last four matches, but they have just two losses and two draws to show for it. The Hammers come to Craven Cottage off three straight wins, scoring a total of nine goals in those games. West Ham has gone over 2.5 goals in six of their last seven matches. The Hammers have seen at least three goals in each of their last five head to head matches versus Fulham.

Take OVER.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Juventus.  Before the season started, I bet on Juventus to win the Champions League: "The Series A champs came very close to winning the Champions League in 2017, losing in the Final to Cristiano Ronaldo and Real Madrid. They lost again to Madrid in last year's competition. Ronaldo is the All Time leading scorer in Champions League play, and was perhaps the most impressive player at the 2018 World Cup. There is no doubt in my mind that he still has plenty left in the tank, and bringing him in will make Juventus the favorite to win this year's competition." They host Manchester United in the second leg of a Champions League tie today, and they completely out-classed the Red Devils at Old Trafford in a 1-0 win in the first leg. Jose Mourino's squad has struggled in the Premier League, and needed an injury time goal just to beat minnows AFC Bourmouth last Saturday. They show no signs of being able to compete with Europe's elite.  Take JUVE.  GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Over 2.5.

Liverpool will host Manchester City on Sunday, in a meeting between the top two teams in the English Premier League. The Citizens have scored a Premier League best 21 goals in seven matches, while Liverpool has totaled 15 goals. These two teams have a history of scoring plenty of goals, and they have combined for at least three goals in five straight meetings. I expect to see another high scoring affair at Anfield, and a 2-2 draw would be my bold prediction.

Take Over.

GL,

Jesse Schule

Jesse Schule

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Over 2.5.

The Vancouver White Caps host the New York Red Bulls Saturday, and I expect to see plenty of offense in this game. The Red Bulls are one of the top teams in the MLS, ranking 5th in scoring with 45 goals in 23 matches. Vancouver has been playing much better of late however, and the Whitecaps are a far better team at home. They have scored 23 goals in 11 home matches, and they have scored eight goals in their last three matches overall. The Red Bulls rank 1st in the MLS in goals against, but they should have their hands full here in an away match on the West Coast. Vancouver though has struggled defensively, ranking 20th in the MLS allowing 47 goals in 23 matches.

Take Over.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the Over 2.5.

Manchester City will open it's title defense at home against Arsenal on Sunday, and I expect to see plenty of scoring in this match. Man City scored a Premier League best 106 goals in 38 matches last season. Arsenal on the other hand conceded a whopping 51 goals last season, the most of any team in the top six. That's more goals conceded than Burnley or Newcastle. These two teams have a history of playing high scoring games, totaling 17 goals in the last five matches. All five of those games saw at least three goals. Manchester City has won the last three meetings between the two teams, outscoring the Gunners 9-1 in those matches.

Take Over.

GL,

Jesse Schule

Jesse Schule

Jesse Schule

Jesse Schule

Jesse Schule

10

This is a 10* play on Over 2.
 As I write this (Jul 2, 2018), we are halfway through the Round of 16 and we haven't yet seen any of the eight teams post a clean sheet in the first four matches of the knockout round. The highest scoring of the four matches was France beating Argentina by a score of 4-3. France did a great job limiting Lionel Messi in that game, but they still conceded three goals. The man responsible for marking Messi, ( Blaise Matuidi ) will not be available for this quarterfinal after picking up a second yellow card versus Argentina. The star of the match was Kylian Mbappe, who looked like The Roadrunner vs Wiley Coyote, or Speedy Gonzalez. As good as the Uruguay defense is (only one goal conceded in 2018), I would guess they haven't seen anyone with such pace. For as good as France has looked offensively, they will be tested by the likes of Luis Suarez, and possibly Edison Cavani. I really can't see either of these teams posting a clean sheet in this match. I am predicting (maybe praying and hoping for) a 2-1 win for Uruguay.
 Take Over.
 GL,
 Jesse Schule

Jesse Schule

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Uruguay.

Uruguay has won the World Cup in the past, and has been competitive in international competitions in recent seasons. Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani give them one of the best striker combos in the tournament, and if the defense can hold up they can compete with any team. They get a good draw in the group stages, matched up with Russia, Egypt and Saudia Arabia. This gives them a pretty easy path to the knockout rounds, as the should have little trouble emerging as the winner of Group A. They won their final three matches prior to the tournament by a combined score of 6-0, posting three consecutive clean sheets against Czech Rep, Wales and Uzbekistan.

GL,

Jesse Schule

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Manchester City.

It's not a matter of if Manchester City will win the Premier League, it's only a matter of when. It would really be something special if they could clinch the league here in Saturday's Manchester Derby, hosting Manchester United. The Red Devils have had a good run, winning six of their last eight matches. The majority of those wins came against inferior opposition, and they can expect a much tougher test here at the Etihad. City is badly in need of a positive result, coming off a 3-0 thrashing at the hands of Liverpool in the first leg of their Champions League tie. That was at Anfield, and they are a much more dangerous team at the Etihad. The Citizens are 14-0-1 with a +41 goal differential at home, while the Red Devils are 8-3-4 with a +9 goal differential away. City has totaled 51 goals in 15 home games, more than double what United has totaled in away matches.

Take CITY.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Liverpool vs Porto to go Over the total.

Only Manchester City has scored more goals in the Premier League this season than Liverpool. The Reds have scored nine goals in their last four matches. While they score more than their share, they also have conceded more than their share (31 goals in 27 matches). Porto sits at the top of the Portuguese Liga standings, and only Benfica has score more goals. Porto has scored a whopping seven goals in it's last two matches. Both teams have plenty of firepower, and I expect the first leg of this Champions League tie to be a high scoring affair.

Take Over.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Liverpool vs MNC to go OVER the total.

The two highest scoring teams in the Premier League will meet at Anfield on Sunday, and both Liverpool and Man City are undefeated in their last five matches. Both teams are coming off four wins and a draw, and they have both filled the net during that time. City has scored a whopping nine goals in it's last three matches, and 14 goals in it's last six matches. The Reds have scored 14 goals in their last five matches, and nine goals in their last three home matches. As good as Liverpool is at scoring goals, defending isn't a strength for the Reds. They have conceded 25 goals in 22 matches, and five of those came in a 5-0 loss to City in December.  Neither team has posted a clean sheet in it's last three league matches, and I expect both teams to score here at Anfield. This should be a high scoring game, and I wouldn't be surprised if it ends in a 2-2 draw.

Take OVER.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the Tottenham Spurs.

Manchester City defeated Manchester United by a score of 2-1 last weekend at Old Trafford. That puts them 11 points clear at the top of the Premier League standings, and they appear primed to suffer a let down. They have won six straight matches by a single goal, while Spurs are coming off a pair of games that they won by a combined score of 8-1. Tottenham is 3-1-1 in the last five meetings between the two clubs, and their last visit to Etihad Stadium resulted in a 2-2 tie. While Manchester City is sitting in quite a comfortable spot, Tottenham is still in a battle for a champions league spot. This is a game that City can afford to drop points, and I think that scenario is more than likely against a dangerous Spurs team.

Take SPURS (split your bet ML+ Spread +1).

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Manchester United.

The Manchester Derby has been rather one-sided over the last two seasons. United is 3-1-1 in the last five head to head matches against City, and the lone loss came by a score of 2-1 last September. The Red Devils are on top form, scoring seven goals in their last two matches. City scored just five times in three matches prior to last week's game at West Ham. They took maximum points in those matches, but failed to impress. Jose Mourino's squad has conceded a Premier League best nine goals in 15 matches this season. Mourino has been known to play for a draw in situations like this, so a conservative game plan would be no surprise. City will be playing a fourth match in just 11 days, and just four days after a trip to the Ukraine. This looks like a tough spot for the road favorite.

Take MUTD.

GL,

Jesse Schule

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Arsenal vs Tottenham to go OVER the total.

The Spurs sit third in the English Premier League, scoring 20 goals in 11 matches. They face a tough test this weekend at the Emirates, as Arsenal has scored 13 goals while winning all five home matches so far. The Gunners have not played well defensively, conceding seven goals in their last five matches. Most recently they lost 3-1 at Manchester City, and Arsene Wenger came under fire for making some questionable coaching decisions in that match. Harry Kane is tied for the Premier League lead in scoring eight goals so far this season, while Arsenal forward Alexandre Lacazette is not far behind with six goals. These teams each possess great talent, but Tottenham comes in as the favorite. I predict that Spurs win in a high scoring game at Emirates.

Take OVER.

GL,

Jesse Schule