This is a 10* play on Under.

Newcastle has fallen on tough times, failing to score a goal in three straight matches. They are winless in their last five matches, with just two goals in those games. The only points they have to show for themselves come from a pair of 1-1 draws. They host Wolverhampton Sunday, and three of their last five versus Wolves ended with a final score of 1-1. Four of the last head to head matches went under the total. Wolves is coming off a 1-0 win over Spurs, and they have failed to reach the total in each of their last four matches.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Under.

Benfica is a big favorite here at home versus Club Brugge, but they will start the contest with a 2-0 lead on aggregate. There is no urgency for Benfica to score, especially given how solid they are defensively. They have conceded just one goal in their last four matches in all competitions, posting three clean sheets during that span. I like Benfica to post another clean sheet here in the second leg at home.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Over.

As inconsistent as Liverpool has been this season, they are still a force to be reckoned with at Anfield. They have just one loss at home, and they have scored 24 goals in just a dozen home matches this season. They will likely need to score a few to beat a Manchester United team that has scored two or more goals in 11 straight matches in all competitions. History suggest we are in for a high score here, with the over going 5-0 in the last five meetings between these teams.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on MCI.

Newcastle's time in the Top 5 in the table may be short lived. They have failed to score in their last two matches versus Liverpool and Manchester United. They have failed to score in four of their last seven matches in the Premier League, and they have just one win during that span. They did earn a draw at home versus City earlier this season, but they had lost four in a row versus City prior to that. They failed to score in three of those four losses. They lost their last game at the Etihad by a score of 5-0. This should be a one sided affair.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on RMA.

In the United States they say "It's all about the Benjamins", but in the Coppa del Rey in Spain it's all about Karim Benzema! The Ballon Dor winner has returned to form, and he's netted four goal in his last three games played. The first leg will be a home game for Real Madrid, and Barcelona comes limping in off back to back losses and leading scorer Robert Lewandowski is out with a hamstring injury.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Over.

So Manchester United comes into the Carabao Cup Final on a roll. They have scored at least two goals in 10 straight matches in all competitions. We saw Liverpool and Chelsea play a 0-0 draw in last year's Carabao Cup Final, but history tells us that we should expect more scoring here. Since 2020, the over has hit in 15 of the 23 Finals. Five of those games involved Manchester United, and three of those games saw 3+ goals. I am predicting a 2-1 win for United over Newcastle.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Arsenal.

So Arsenal is battling to stay top of the table in the Premier League, with Manchester City just two points behind. They need to pick up all the points they can from here on out, and an away match at Leicester might look like a tricky spot. Actually it might be more favorable than you would think. Leicester ranks 19th in the Premier League in home/away splits, while Arsenal has the best away record among the 20 Premier League clubs. The Gunnars are 9-1-2 in away matches, with a +15 goal differential. They have won four straight against Leicester, and two of those wins came at King Power Stadium.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Under.

So Fulham is undefeated in their last five matches in all competitions, and four of those five games went under the total. They host Wolverhampton, who ranks dead last in the Premier League in scoring with 17 goals scored in 23 matches played. The last time these teams played it ended in a scoreless draw. Each of the previous three meetings ended in a score of 1-0, and before that they played to a 1-1 draw. Wolverhampton would love a draw here, so expect them to be very pessimistic in their play.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Under.

I expect to see a cautious approach from both these teams in the first leg of this Champions League Round of 16 tie. Porto comes in as winners of five straight matches in all competitions, and they posted a clean sheet in four of those games. Inter is also undefeated in their last four matches, and they posted three clean sheets during that span. Porto has posted a clean sheet in three of it's last four matches in the Champions League.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

Napoli has scored a Champions League best 20 goals in six matches in the competition, and they lead the Series A in scoring with 56 goals in 23 matches. Frankfurt is capable of scoring their share of goals as well, averaging two goals per game in the Bundesliga. The over is 5-1 in Napoli's six Champions League matches so far, and I expect to see at least three goals scored here in this Round of 16 match.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Newcastle.

Casual soccer fans may not know that Newcastle is undefeated at home in the Premier League this season, and that they rank 1st in the league in goals against. They currently sit in fourth place, while Liverpool is nine points back. Liverpool has won just twice in 10 matches away from Anfield, with a goal differential of -8 in those games. Newcastle is on better form, going undefeated in their last five matches in all competitions, while Liverpool has lost back to back away matches at Brighton and Wolves. The value is on the home team here.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Liverpool.

It's been a brutal season for Liverpool, and they are coming off back to back losses to Brighton and Wolves on the road. They return to Anfield to face Everton in the Merseyside Derby on Monday. Liverpool has suffered just one home loss in 10 matches this season, while Everton has won just once in 10 away matches this season. Only two Premier League teams have a better goal differential at home than Liverpool (+14). This looks like a great spot to back the home team at a reduced price. I have Liverpool winning 2-0.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Over.

Manchester City is the highest scoring team in the Premier League by a country mile, and they score the majority of their goals at the Etihad. In fact they have tallied 38 goals in just 11 home matches in the league this season. They host an Aston Villa team that is coming off a 4-2 home loss to Leicester. After Arsenal dropped points again on Saturday, we expect City to be fired up here on Sunday. I am predicting a final score of 3-1.

Note: I did correctly predict the final score of 1-1 with my premium play on Crystal Palace yesterday.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Crystal Palace.

It's not easy to win on the road in the Premier League, and I'll take Palace to get at least a draw here against Brighton. Crystal Palace has played to a draw in two of their last three matches, including a 1-1 home draw versus Manchester United. History suggests this game could very well be a draw, as three of the last four meetings between these teams ended with a final score of 1-1.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on NEWCASTLE.

The Hammers come in as winners of three of their last four matches, but when you look at their opponents in those games it's not so impressive. Derby County in the FA Cup, a home win over an Everton team currently sitting in the relegation zone, and a 1-0 win at Brentford. They face a Newcastle team Saturday that sits Top 3 in the table, and hasn't lost at home yet this season. West Ham has conceded twice as many goals as Newcastle, and just barely scored half as many as the Magpies.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on OVER.

These are the top two scoring teams in the Premier League, and while in some cases a Cup match might not be as significant as a league game, in this case it's an opportunity for both these teams to make a statement. Arsenal sits five points clear of City in the Premier League standings, and a win here at the Etihad might be soul crushing for Pep Guardiola's side. It won't be easy, as Man City has scored a whopping 38 goals in 11 home matches. Arsenal though has the best away record in the Premier League, and they have scored 20 goals in 10 away matches. I like both teams to score here, and we should see a high score. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Fullham.

Fullham has earned points in eight of their 10 home games this season, while Spurs have dropped points in five of their last seven matches overall. These teams are trending in opposite directions, with Fullham on the rise and Spurs looking like they need to make wholesale changes. Harry Kane is rumored to be on the way out, possibly linked to Manchester United. Spurs haven't had a draw on the road in the Premier League this season, but they should be happy if they can get a draw here.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

Arsenal sits top of the table in the Premier League, but they host a Manchester United home that has been on a roll of late. Eric Ten Hag has really turned things around, winning seven of their last eight matches in all competitions, and going unbeaten during that span. They have scored a dozen goals in their last five matches. Only Manchester City has scored more goals this season than Arsenal. The last three meetings between these teams have all gone over 3. I expect both teams to score and we should see a minimum of three goals.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Spurs.

Arsenal sits top of the table, and there's no doubt that the Gunners have been the better side so far this season. They come into Sunday's match at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium as heavy favorites. It's still a tough task to win away matches in this league, as evidenced by Manchester City suffering a defeat at Old Trafford Saturday. History favors the home side, as the home team has won outright in five straight meetings between these teams. A draw would be a decent result here for Arsenal, and I expect Spurs to at least salvage a point.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Over 2.5.

The Manchester Derby will feature two of the Premier League's highest scoring teams. Manchester City has scored a Premier League best 45 goals in 17 matches, while Manchester United has scored 15 times in their last six matches in all competitions. Eric Ten Hag finally has this team playing the attacking style we are familiar with from his time at Ajax. The last two meetings between these teams were high scoring. City winning both matches by a combined 10-4 margin. With injuries to their top two defenders, Manchester United may have an opportunity to avenge those losses. 

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on MCI.

After dropping points with a sloppy effort against Everton on New Years Eve, Manchester City will look to take maximum points against Chelsea at Stanford Bridge. Chelsea is not on good form, and their aging defense was exposed in a draw versus the bottom team in the Premier League (Nottingham Forrest) in their last match. Chelsea has dropped three straight versus City, and on the season City has score more than twice as many goals as the Blues.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Spurs.

Aston Villa has one of the worst away records in the Premier League, with one win in eight matches, and a goal differential of -11. Tottenham has won six of eight home matches with a goal differential of +10. I was particularly impressed with Spurs in their last match, trailing 2-0 at Brentford and then rallying to earn a 2-2 draw. Tottenham is 5-0 in their last five versus Aston Villa, and the most recent meeting was a 4-0 win.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on MUTD.

Ten Hag has Manchester United firing on all cylinders, they have battled their way into the Top 5 in the Premier League table. It's going to be a tough ask to finish in a Champions League spot, with Arsenal. Newcastle and City way out in front, and Liverpool and Spurs within a few points. Their first game back after the World Cup comes against Nottingham Forest, who own the Premier League's worst record in away matches. Forest is 0-2-5 with a -18 goal differential in away matches this season. Their most recent away match in the Premier League was a 5-0 loss at Arsenal. They might be looking at another blowout loss here at Old Trafford.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Over.

Lionel Messi is tied for the tournament lead with five goals, and three of those have come via penalty. Argentina has been awarded four penalties so far, tying the record. With one game to play, you have to think there is a good chance Messi gets another opportunity from the penalty spot. Argentina has scored two or more goals in five straight matches, while France has scored two or more in four of their last five. I don't think either team is going to post a clean sheet here, and 2-1 seems like the most likely final score.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Under.

MorocCo is the Cinderella story of the 2022 World Cup. Heading into the Semi Final they have only conceded one goal, and it was an own goal in a 2-1 win over Canada. Their impressive run includes clean sheets against Spain, Belgium, Portugal and Croatia. Surely their strategy will be to stifle France, and they would be more than content to extend this game to extra time and try to win on penalties. I think the most likely scores are 0-0,1-0,1-1, or 2-0.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Over.

There is no shortage of talent between these two teams. England has scored a dozen goals in four games at the tournament, while France has scored nine goals in four matches. Both teams have scored in three of the last four head to head meetings, and the most recent international friendly was a 3-2 win for France back in 2017. An early goal could light this game on fire.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Netherlands.

Lionel Messi has scored three goals in four games at this World Cup, and at the age of 35 some consider him the G.O.A.T. He did miss a penalty against Poland, and overall he's seen more than his share of disappointment at the World Cup throughout his career. Argentina will be a huge favorite against Netherlands, despite the fact that the Dutch are undefeated in 11 World Cups matches under manager Louis Van Gaal. Netherlands 3-1 win over USA was far more impressive than Argentina's 2-1 win over Australia. The Dutch have perhaps the best defense of any squad at the World Cup, with Virgin Van Djik widely considered the best in the world. I think the bookmakers have the wrong team favored here, Holland has a younger, more talented group of stars and a superior coach

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Over.

Portugal will be a favorite in their knockout round match versus Switzerland, and I expect to see both teams score here. Portugal has plenty of offensive talent, and it was on display in the Group Stages scoring six goals in three matches. Switzerland also showed offensive prowess in a 3-2 win over Serbia in their final match of the first round. These two teams have scored a combined 10 goals in the last three head to head meetings. I can't see either of these teams posting a clean sheet.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Over.

We haven't seen Brazil really play an aggressive brand of football yet at this World Cup. After beating Serbia 2-0, they won 1-0 over Switzerland with a late goal. Already having locked up first in the group, they lost 1-0 to Cameroon in the last game of the Group Stages. Expect a different story here against a Korean team that has scored four goals in their last two games. Here in the knockout round nobody is playing for a draw. Expect Brazil to get a goal in the first half, and all hell might break loose after that. These teams have gone over in four of their last five meetings.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on England.

This England team has been to the Quarterfinals at the last World Cup, and followed that up with an appearance in the Finals at Euro2020. The opened the tournament with a 6-2 win over Irah, and aside from a scoreless draw versus USMNT, they have looked like maybe the best team at the tournament. Senegal finished second in Group A with wins over Qatar and Ecuador, but lost 2-0 to Netherlands. What's alarming for Senegal is they have no clean sheets. I think it's asking too much of the Senegal defense to keep this mighty England attack at bay.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on the Netherlands.

The USMNT has been impressive here at the World Cup, particularly in their scoreless draw against England. They caught England in a let down spot, and the draw was actually a result that both teams were content with at the time. It's the knockout round now, and the football giants aren't playing for draws anymore. Holland has the best defender in the world in Virgil Van Djik, and they have conceded just one goal so far. They have not been held scoreless in any of their last 11 matches, here at the World Cup and in qualifying.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Over. 

We saw three of the four games at the World Cup yesterday go over the total, which should come as no surprise considering that in the final match of the Group Stages certain teams are forced to throw caution to the wind as they need to win in order to qualify. Unlike the first two matches when they are content to play for a draw, they need to push, take chances and go for the win. Then you have other teams that have already qualified (Brazil) who will rest starters and don't necessarily need a result. Brazil's backups are more than capable of putting a ball or two in the net, and that's especially true against a Cameroon squad that rarely posts a clean sheet. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Mexico.

The last time that Mexico failed to advance from the Group Stages at the World Cup it was 1978, They have made the Round of 16 in eight consecutive tournaments, and they face a must win here against Saudi Arabia if they intend to keep that streak alive. Saudi Arabia suffered a let down after their upset win over Argentina, losing their second match 2-0 to Poland. If Argentina defeats Poland and Mexico defeats Saudi Arabia, then goal differential comes into play. A win for Poland would put Mexico in control of it's own destiny.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

Ecuador only needs a draw to punch their ticket to the the knockout round at the World Cup. They face Senegal in their final match of the Group Stages, and Senegal needs a win. Ecuador has played to a draw in four of their last five matches in all competitions, and in eight of their last 11. They have also posted a clean sheet in seven of their last eight matches, with the exception being a 1-1 draw versus Netherlands. We can expect a tight defensive battle here, and I expect a final score of 1-1 or 0-0.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on SUI.

So far in the World Cup, teams that have won by two or more in their first match, haven't done as well in their next match. Netherlands, Spain and England all settled for a draw in their second match. France won 4-1 in their opening match versus Australia, and then they beat Denmark 2-1 in their next match. Brazil will not have their leading scorer Neymar for the remainder of the Group Stages. The Swiss will likely be playing for a draw here, something they have successfully achieved in two of their last four matches versus Brazil. The Swiss have played nine matches at the World Cup since 2014, and only one of those nine matches resulted in a loss by more than one goal.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Under.

Despite the fact that Lewandowski is one of the top goalscorers of his generation, Poland does not score a lot of goals in international play. In fact the under is 5-0 in their last five matches. With Poland off an 0-0 draw versus Mexico, and Saudi Arabia bagging two points with a win over Argentina, a draw here would be a suitable result for both teams. I expect a cautious approach, with neither team wanting to concede the first goal. Saudi Arabia had gone under in four straight prior to the match versus Argentina.

GL,

Jesse Schule.

This is a 4* play on England.

As impressive as USA was in the first half of their match versus Wales, they showed a serious lack of discipline and it cost them in the second half. This is likely to be a far more serious issue against and England team that is vastly superior as far as talent and pace. If the Americans play the same style here they are likely to concede a penalty and or go down to 10 men. If they are less aggressive because of all the players that are already on one yellow card, they will be punished by the potent English attack. Pick your poison, the USA are simply over-matched.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on Senegal. 

Both these teams lost their opening matches, but in much different circumstances. The Africans pushed Holland to the brink, and deserved a far better result. Qatar become the first Host Nation in the history of the World Cup to lose their opening match, and they looked completely outclassed. Playing for a draw won't be an option for Senegal, they need to get maximum points from this match if they want to stay alive in the tournament. Qatar should be trying to save face, and would do well to avoid embarrassment. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Brazil.

Serbia was knocked out of the Group Stages of the 2018 World Cup when they lost 2-0 to Brazil. This year's Brazil team looks perhaps even stronger than the side they fielded four years ago. They have won seven straight in all competitions, outscoring opponents a combined 26-2. There are no easy matches in the World Cup, and we witnessed a huge upset when Saudi Arabia defeated Argentina 2-1 on Tuesday. That said, this will likely prove to be the exception, rather than the rule.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on Over.

The Canadians are minnows of international football, but they might surprise some at this World Cup. Keep in mind they finished ahead of Mexico and USA in CONCACAF World Cup Qualifying. They have scored 11 goals in their last six matches in all competitions, including a 2-1 win over Japan in their last match. They are up against European powerhouse Belgium, who has some of the most talented attacking players in Europe. Kevin De Bruyne might still be the best midfielder in the world, and Romelu Lukaku scores goals in his sleep. The Belgians weakness is their aging defense, and that should keep the door open for Canada. Expect both teams to score and the total to go over.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Costa Rica. 

At first glance it looks like this is a mismatch, but Costa Rica has thrived as an underdog at the World Cup. In 2014 they finished first in a Group that had been named the Group of Death, edging out England, Italy and Uruguay. They didn't make it out of the Group Stages in 2018, but they didn't lose a match by more than two goals either. Spain should be the favorite here, but this price seems far too high. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on France.

No Benzema... no need to panic for France. The defending champions have depth at every position. Australia did not impress in World Cup Qualifying matches. They had one win in their last five matches, and lost to Saudi Arabia and Japan. Their leading scorer Harry Souttar plays in England, not in the Premier League but at Stoke City in the League Championship. France won their last three World Cup Qaulifying matches by a combined score of 12-0.

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Wales +0.5. 

The United States has not done anything in recent qualifying matches to justify being favored here in their World Cup opener versus Wales. They scored just one goal, while going 0-2-1 in their last three matches. The one goal came against El Salvador, and they failed to score in a loss to Japan and a 0-0 draw versus Saudi Arabia. Wales is winless in their last three qualifying matches, but they played European superpowers Netherlands and Belgium twice. It should be considered encouraging that Wales scored in four of their last five matches, and during that span they didn't lose a match by more than one goal. I fancy Wales to get at least a draw here. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Netherlands.

This Netherlands team has had it's fair share of disappointment at major international tournaments. History tells us that they normally get off to a good start, but fade sooner than perhaps they should. They won all three matches in the Group Stages at the European Championships, by a combined score of 8-2. In their most recent World Cup appearances (2014), they won all three matches during the Group Stages by a combined score of 9-3. They catch a break here against Senegal, as Sadio Mane has been ruled out for the tournament. It will be difficult for Senegal to overcome the loss of their leading scorer and team leader.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

Manchester United sits fifth in the Premier League table, and they will host Fulham on Sunday. It may surprise some that Fulham has actually scored five more goals this season than Manchester United. They have also conceded five more goals. These teams have a history of scoring goals when they face each other. The over is 4-1 in the last five meetings. Fulham has gone over the total in four of it's last five matches in all competitions.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Sevilla.

While Manchester City is the superior team playing at home, the line here is grossly inflated when you factor in the motivation for the two clubs. Pep Guardiola will rest his starters, and let the youngsters take the reigns here as City has already clinched top spot in the group. Sevilla needs a win to qualify, and should field their best squad. The last time they played at the Etihad they lost 2-1, and I wouldn't be surprised if that is the final score in this game.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Rangers.

In a meaningless game at the end of the group stages, I expect a better effort from the Rangers in front of a home crowd. Rangers are winless in the group stages so far, and neither of these teams has any opportunity to advance. A win at home on their way out of the competition would offer some consolation for the fans. Rangers are 6-0-1 at home in their domestic league, with a +18 goal differential. In Champions League qualifiers they were 1-0-1 with a +3 goal differential. Ajax has nothing to gain here in Scotland, and it would be surprising if they didn't rest some key players.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on MUTD. 

Erik Ten Hag has Manchester United trending in the right direction. They are undefeated in their last five matches in all competitions, and they have posted clean sheets in all but one of those games. The only exception being a 1-1 draw versus Chelsea, with the Blues scoring on a late penalty at Stamford Bridge. They welcome West Ham United to Old Trafford, and the Hammers are 1-1-4 in away matches this season. West Ham has lost three of their last four visits to Old Trafford. The home side should get maximum points here in this contest. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Liverpool.

It was a poor start to the season for Liverpool, but Jorgen Klopp and the boys appear to have found their stride. They are coming off a 3-0 win over Ajax in the Champions League, and they are undefeated at Anfield with a +12 goal differential in six matches. Leeds on the other hand are ready to sack their manager. They are facing relegation, and they are winless in away matches this season. Their last game at Anfield was a 6-0 loss in February.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Ajax.

Liverpool is coming off a loss to Nottingham Forest in the Premier League, and they are destined to finish second in their group in the Champions League. There won't be anything to gain here for either team in an away match at Ajax. The Dutch side is unbeaten in five home matches in the Dutch league, with a goal differential of +20 (yes in five matches). When Ajax played at Anfield. Liverpool was fortunate to escape with a 2-1 win after scoring the game winner in the 89th minute. They have since added more players to their injury list. A draw should suit Jurgen Klopp just fine here, as he won't have his best squad available.

GL,

Jesse

This is a 4* play on Dortmund.

Manchester City sits 1st in Group G, and they will travel to Germany to play 2nd place Dortmund on Tuesday. Manchester City won the first leg by a score of 2-1, on a late goal from Erling Haaland. Man City is 3-1-1 in five matches versus Dortmund dating back to 2016, and all three wins came by the exact same score (2-1). A win here would clinch the group for City, but a draw would likely also do the trick. Dortmund is 4-1-1 in six home matches in the Bundelsiga, which includes a 2-2 draw versus Bayern Munich. Don't be surprised if this game ends in a draw.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on MUTD +0.5.

Things are starting to take shape for Erik Ten Hag at Manchester United, the Red Devils are 4-0-1 in their last five matches in all competitions. They face a tough test here at Stamford Bridge, as Chelsea is also 4-0-1 in their last five matches. History tells us that this game is likely to be close. These teams have played to a draw in each of the last four meetings. Don't be surprised if we see a fifth straight draw in this series.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* on Liverpool. 

So Manchester City looks like an unstoppable force this season, while Liverpool has had a poor start in the Premier League. This has the Citizens pegged as heavy favorites heading to Anfield on Saturday, in a game where a draw would probably suit them just fine. In fact the last two times these teams met in the Premier League the result was a draw. Liverpool also knocked City out of the FA Cup and won the Community Shield versus City. While Pep Guardiola may have the superior squad this season, playing at Anfield is a daunting task. It's been five and a half years since Liverpool lost at home in front of their fans in a Premier League match. Manchester City hasn't won at Anfield since 2003, and that is their only win in 20 visits to Liverpool all time (modern era). 

GL, 

Jesse Schule 

This is a 2* play on Napoli.

The home side is on a tear so far this season, sitting top of the table in Series A, and undefeated in Champions League play. Ajax on the other hand has really dropped off since the departure of Ten Hag, and many of their top players. They lost 6-1 at home to Napoli in the first leg of this tie, and we should expect another easy win for the Italians here in Napoli.

GL,

Jesse Schule

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 4* play on Over.

I said this about Kansas City a few weeks ago: "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 since won at home versus San Jose, and then earned a 2-2 draw on the road at LAFC. It would appear that the betting markets haven't properly accounted for the new additions to this team. Both these teams have gone over in four of their last five matches, and three of the last four head to head meetings went over. 

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Over.

Austin F.C. is the second highest scoring team in MLS behind LAFC. After upsetting LAFC they suffered a let down in their next game losing 2-1 at home to Portland. They look to get back on track here in Nashville, and I like both teams to score in a high scoring match here. Nashville has one of the worst home records in MLS, despite scoring 25 goals in 15 matches. Austin F.C. has the second best away record in MLS, scoring 23 goals in 14 matches. The over is a combined 10-0 in these teams last 10 matches combined.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Liverpool.

After a lackluster start to the season Liverpool scored nine times in a 9-0 win over Bournemouth over the weekend. They host Newcastle here on Wednesday, and this looks like a tough spot for the Magpies. Newcastle could be without six starting players for this match, and that includes stars Allan Saint-Maximin and Callum Wilson. The last visit to Anfield was a 3-1 loss for Newcastle, and a similar score should be expected here in this match.

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 2* play on Liverpool.

Neither of these two clubs have started the season the way they have hoped, but the situation at Old Trafford is a real dumpster fire. There have even been rumors that this match could be postponed due to protests from fans calling for the American owners of the club to be ousted. Erik Ten Hag has made a move to sign defensive midfielder Casemiro, but he's not going to play in this match. It will be the same squad that allowed four goals to Brentford, and lost 2-1 at home to Brighton. Liverpool has won three straight Premier League matches versus United by a combined score of 13-2. Two of those wins came at Old Trafford. It goes from bad to worse for the Red Devils.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Over.

Sporting KC sits dead last in the Western Conference standings, and they have scored an MLS worst 26 goals in 26 matches. The good news is that they have scored seven of those goals in their last two matches. Their mid season signings (Erik Thommy and William Agada) have made an immediate impact, combining to score four goals in four matches since joining the club. History tells us we should expect a high score in a home game against the Portland Timber, as Kansas City looks to avenge a 7-2 loss to at Portland earlier this season. These teams have gone over in four of the last five meetings, and both teams have scored in all five of those matches.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Real Salt Lake.

Salt Lake is one of the best home sides in all of MLS. They are 7-3-2 in a dozen home matches, with a +8 goal differential. Only two teams in the Western Conference have a better home record than Salt Lake. They host Vancouver on Saturday night, and the Whitecaps have just two wins in 13 away matches. The home team has won four of the last five meetings between these clubs, with the one exception being a 4-0 win for Salt Lake in Vancouver. The Whitecaps have conceded 45 goals this season, and only two teams in MLS have conceded more.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Over.

The LA Galaxy have fallen far from grace in MLS, coming into tonight's home game against Seattle with a sub .500 record. They have scored seven goals in their last two matches, but they have also conceded six while going 1-1 during that span. The Sounders finished second in the Western Conference last season, but they are currently sitting in 10th in the West. They are coming off a shocking 2-1 home loss to Salt Lake, and they have gone over the total in four of their last five overall. These two teams have gone over in three of the last four head to head matches, and we can expect another high score here in LA.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Over.

Toronto FC is 3-0-1 in their last four matches, and since acquiring Lorenzo Insigne and Federico Bernardeschi they are a different team. Both players found the net in a 3-1 win over Portland in their last match, and Toronto has only lost once in 13 home matches. They have scored 23 goals in those games. New England comes in as one of the more competitive teams in away matches, and they are one of just six teams to score 20 or more goals on the road. We should expect at least three goals here.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 1* play on LAFC.

While the home team is an enormous favorite here, this just seems like too great a mismatch for the visitors to overcome. LAFC (the best team in MLS) has a +20 goal differential at home, while the visitors (DC United) have a -18 goal differential on the road. Only Charlotte has a worse goal differential in away matches (-19), and they just lost 5-0 at Banc of California Stadium. LAFC won the last meeting 4-0 in Washington, and a similar score is expected here.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Liverpool. 

I am not concerned by a 2-2 draw at Fulham in their season opener. Liverpool was coming off a 3-1 win over Manchester City in the Community Shield. They were entitled to suffer a bit of a let down on the road. This is a whole different kettle of fish (and chips). Playing at home at Anfield where they were undefeated last season. The Reds were 15-4-0 with a +40 goal differential in 19 home matches a year ago. They are facing a Crystal Palace team that they have beaten in five straight meetings. All five of those games were decided by 2+ goals, with a combined score of 17-1. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Spurs.

While Chelsea has won the last four meetings between these two teams, holding Tottenham scoreless in all four matches, Spurs appear to be vastly improved since last season. They got off to a convincing start with a 4-1 win over Southamton in their season opener, while Chelsea just barely beat Everton in a 1-0 win decided by a penalty. Last season Chelsea played to a draw in seven of their 19 home matches, winning just nine of those contests. Tottenham suffered just six losses in 19 away matches last season. I like the Spurs chances of at least earning a draw here.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Over.

Toronto FC looks like a different team since acquiring Lorenzo Insigne and Federico Bernardesch. Both players scored in a 4-3 win over Nashville in their last match. They have struggled defensively all season long, conceding 42 goals in 24 matches. They host the Portland Timbers on Saturday, and these two teams have gone over in three of the last four meetings. Portland has conceded 22 goals in a dozen away matches, and Toronto has scored 20 goals in a dozen home matches. 

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Austin FC.

Sitting second in the Western Conference, and just four points back of league leaders LAFC, the bookmakers appear to be late to the party with Austin FC. They are just a small favorite in a home game against a San Jose team that is winless in it's last five matches. The Earthquakes have won just once in 11 away matches, and their goal differential is -10 in those games. Austin FC has scored an MLS best 47 goals in 23 matches. It's asking a lot for SJ to keep up here in Austin.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Over.

The Portland Timbers are coming off a 4-4 draw versus Minnesota, and high scoring games have been the norm for this team in recent weeks. They have gone over the number in four of their last five matches, scoring a dozen goals during that span. Tonight they host a Nashville team that has the 5th best away record in MLS, and I fancy Nashville to score here in Portland. The last time these teams played it ended in a 2-2 draw. I expect a similar result here this time around.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on the NYRB.

The Red Bulls don't have a great home record overall, but they have won three of their last four at home. Tuesday they face a Colorado Rapids team that has the worst away record of any team in MLS. Colorado is 0-3-7 with a -13 goal differential in 10 away matches so far this season. The Rapids have scored nine fewer goals and conceded five more than New York. Two teams trending in opposite directions, and it appear the home side is undervalued.

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 3* play on LAFC.

They were already the best team in MLS, but the addition of Garreth Bale makes them even better. I had this to say prior to their last match: "Garreth Bale's LAFC debut was rather uneventful, coming off the bench in the finals minutes of a 2-1 win over Nashville. He might see more action here in Kansas City tonight. Sporting KC sits at the bottom of the table, one of just four MLS clubs with a negative goal differential at home. LAFC is one of the best road teams in MLS, going 5-1-3 in nine matches. With a challenge at the top of the table from Austin FC, we should expect LAFC to go for the win tonight." Bale scored and they won 2-0 at Atlanta. We should expect them to have little trouble with Seattle here at home. 

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on LAFC.

Garreth Bale's LAFC debut was rather uneventful, coming off the bench in the finals minutes of a 2-1 win over Nashville. He might see more action here in Kansas City tonight. Sporting KC sits at the bottom of the table, one of just four MLS clubs with a negative goal differential at home. LAFC is one of the best road teams in MLS, going 5-1-3 in nine matches. With a challenge at the top of the table from Austin FC, we should expect LAFC to go for the win tonight.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Argentinos Juniors.

The Boca Juniors are the most famous team in Argentina, winning the league a record 34 times. The betting markets have been slow to adjust to the fact that they are no longer one of the top teams in the league. Argentinos Juniors are level on points with the first place team in the league, and they are unbeaten at home (3-0-1). Boca Juniors have lost two of three away matches, and are just 4-4 overall in the league. The poor results have led to the sacking of Sebastian Battaglia, and Boca will have an interim manager moving forward. The home dog appears to be the sharp play here.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Over.

Atlanta is coming off a 2-1 home win over Real Salt Lake, and they have gone over 2.5 goals in five straight matches. They host Orlando FC on Sunday, and these two teams have gone over in three of the last four head to head meetings. High scoring games have been the trend in Atlanta, with the home squad scoring 19 goals and conceding 14 in 10 home matches.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the LA Galaxy.

LA is ranked 5th in the Western Conference, and they are in danger of falling out of the top tier in MLS. They are coming off a 3-2 loss at LAFC, but prior to that they beat Montreal 4-0 at home. They still have a respectable home record, and tonight they face a team that is winless on the road. San Jose is 0-3-6 with a -10 goal differential on the road. Home field is so huge in MLS, and this looks like a spot to back the home favorite.

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 5* play on Over 2.5.

Montreal is all of a sudden sitting at the top of the Eastern Conference standings, despite a goal differential of just +3. While they have scored 32 goals in 17 matches, they have conceded almost as many. They will play in LA on the 4th of July, and the Galaxy are just 4-1-1 with a negative goal differential at home. I expect both teams to score here, and it should take at least two goals to win it.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on New York FC.

New York City is a powerhouse at home, and they have the best goal differential of any team in the MLS while going 6-2-1 in their nine home games. They host Atlanta, a team that struggles on the road. Atlanta is 1-1-6 in eight road games this season. New York is 3-0-1 in the last four head to head meetings, and they are back home after going winless on a three game road trip. New York has out-scored Atlanta 8-2 in the last four meetings. This looks like a great spot for the home favorite to get back on track.

GL,

Jesse Schule

5*

This is a 5* play on Over.

Of the seven games in MLS on Wednesday, six of them went over the total. I expect that trend to continue here tonight with Austin FC playing at Charlotte. Only two teams in MLS have scored more goals this season than Austin FC. That said, their record in away matches is pretty pedestrian with a negative goal differential. Charlotte on the other hand has one of the better home records in MLS, going 6-2 with a +6 goal differential. Austin FC has gone over in four of their last five matches overall, while the over is 3-2 in Charlotte's last five matches. The most likely outcome here is a 2-1 final score.

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*

This is a 5* play on Over 2.5.

This is a huge game for both teams, with a spot in next season's Champions League up for grabs. Arsenal has been playing like they are on a mission, winning four straight matches and scoring 10 goals in those games. The Spurs have not been on top form, with just two wins in their last five matches. These teams played twice in the Premier League in 2021, and both those games went over the total. Arsenal has gone over in all four games during their current winning streak.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Over.

So Man City was on their way to the Champions League Final, but after conceding not one but two goals in injury time they lost on a Benzema penalty in extra time in the Semi Final. Now they focus on clinching the Premier League with Liverpool still hot on their heels. They host a Newcastle team that has won four of their last five matches. Three of the last four head to head meetings have gone over the total, and we should expect another high scoring affair here in Manchester.

GL,

Jesse Schule

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

5*

This is an 8* play on Over,

Manchester United finished at the top of Group F, despite conceding eight goals in six matches. Atletico Madrid finished second in Group B, also conceding eight goals in six matches. Both teams also rank poorly in goals against in their respective domestic leagues. We saw a 1-1 draw in Spain, which means neither team has the luxury of protecting a lead. I expect both teams to go for it here in the second match at Old Trafford. The leading scorer in Champions League history is on top form, scoring a hat trick over the weekend in a 3-2 win over Spurs. Atletico has scored seven goals in three matches in Spain since the first leg match. 

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Over.

They say "money isn't everything", but it sure as hell helps. Newcastle has benefited from deep pockets, buying players over the last few months, and it's helped them turn their season around with a record of 6-0-2 in their last eight matches. They have a history of playing high scoring matches against Southampton. Last year these teams played twice, and both teams scored at least twice in each meeting. Only Leeds and Norwich have conceded more goals than Newcastle this season.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Madrid.

PSG won the first leg by a score of 1-0, but they head to the Bernabeu for the second leg of this Champions League tie versus Real Madrid. The home team is sitting top of the table in Spain, leading the league in goals scored as well as goal differential. They have yet to be beaten at home in La Liga this season, boasting a record of 10-0-4. Paris has lost two of three domestic league games since their first leg win versus Madrid, and they might not have Kylian Mbappe in the lineup Wedneday. The French international suffered a foot injury over the weekend. "Kylian Mbappé received a knock on his right foot in training today. He has undergone treatment this afternoon," read the release. "The medical tests are reassuring and another update will be made in 24 hours." It was Mbappe who scored the only goal in the first leg.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on LAFC.

Carlos Vela missed most of the last two MLS seasons, and his team suffered in his absence. His last full season was in 2019, and he scored an incredible 36 goals in 33 starts. LAFC finished first in MLS that season, eight points clear of their closest competitor. Vela appears to be healthy, scoring a hat trick in the season opener. Portland needed to score a late equalizer to salvage a draw in their home opener versus New England. I don't fancy the Timbers to earn any points here in LA.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on LA.

I ain't gonna blow smoke up your @## and pretend I know everything about the expansion team from Charlotte. This is just the second weekend of the MLS season, and with college hoops in full swing and NBA and NHL into the second half of the season, my focus hasn't been on soccer. I do know that Charlotte lost it's first match 3-0 to a mediocre DC United team, and I know that the last few expansion teams in the MLS have finished at or near the bottom of the table in their first season. LA Galaxy had high expectations when they signed Chicharito, but he's had trouble staying healthy. He scored a goal in their season opener, giving him 18 goals in his last 21 starts. He's still a world class player, and he should give the Galaxy a huge edge. I will take the plus money for a small play.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Spurs.

Tottenham sits eighth in the Premier League table, which would have to be considered a disappointment. Harry Kane has only scored seven goals, but two of those came in a win over Manchester City over the weekend. Spurs come in on top form, looking to finish the season strong. Burnley is sitting in the relegation zone, and they have just two wins so far this season. History favors Spurs who have outscored Burnley a combined 12-1 while going 4-0-1 in the last five head to head matches.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Chelsea.

After finishing at the Top of League 1 in France last year, Lille sits 11th in the table this season. Chelsea sits third in the Premier League table, and they come in on top form with four wins and a draw in their last five matches. While they aren't really in the running to to win the Premier League, I think Chelsea may be better suited to win the Champions League. They have the best goalkeeper, and they are incredibly efficient on defense. The Blues have posted a clean sheet in three of their last four matches in all competitions, and I expect another clean sheet here. Looking for a 2-0 win for the home team.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Over.

Newcastle has won three straight matches, moving them out of the relegation zone. They still need to earn points to hold off the likes of Norwich and Watford who are just a few points back. Points will be hard to come by against West Ham, who are sitting in 5th in the Premier League. The Hammers have scored 44 goals in 25 matches, and Newcastle has allowed 44 goals in 23 matches. Four of the last five head to head meetings have gone over the total.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Over.

West Ham and Leiceser have a history of playing high scoring games. The last five head to head matches have all seen at least three goals combined. Leicester has conceded 11 goals in their last five matches, while West Ham is one of four clubs in the Premier League to have scored 40 or more goals. West Ham has scored 10 goals in their last three matches versus Leicester, and I expect both teams to score here on Super Bowl Sunday.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Watford. 

Brighton Hove Albion sits in the top 10 in the Premier League table, despite winning just six of their 22 matches. They have played a Premier League leading 12 draws, making it twice as likely they draw than actually win, and three times as likely to lose or draw rather than win. They face a Watford club fighting to avoid relegation, and another draw here seems likely. Watford has played to a draw twice in their last four matches, and two of the last four head to head versus Brighton have been draws.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Aston Villa.

Steven Gerrard has Villa playing on top form, coming off a 1-0 win over Everton and a 2-2 draw versus Manchester United. They host Leeds United Wednesday, and this is a game they should win. Leeds has failed to score in two of their last three matches, and they have a -12 goal differential while going 2-2-7 in away matches.

GL,

Jesse Schule