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Premier League Winners & Losers – Tottenham, Sturidge And Moyes Smile, Everton and Manchester City Struggle
Hello and welcome to the winners and losers column where we go over this week’s round of games and discuss the teams, players and coaches that should either pat themselves on the back or take a hard long look at their recent decisions and should perhaps start making drastic life changes.
This column is in the spirit of good fun and your comments and opinions are just as valid as mine.
Winners and Losers Week 1+2
Winners:
Tottenham Hotspurs
Spurs just keep winning. After last season with no penalty awarded, they have won their last 2 games on penalties. Yes, they have the Bale saga serving as a massive distraction but the new signings have shown promising understanding. The midfield duo of Paulinho and Capoue have combined beautifully with Dembele. Spurs only major concern is a consistent goal threat. I suggest another striker brought in to compliment Soldado who does not get involved in build-up play. He is quite good at finishing in the 6-yard box and Spurs need another striker to serve as Plan B when Soldado is marked out of a game.
Daniel Sturidge
Daniel Sturridge getting better with every match for the Reds
2 wins out of 2—and this was achieved without their best player last season’s, Luiz Suarez. Sturidge is showing the potential that saw Manchester City and later Chelsea invest so heavily in him. His last 16 games have resulted in 12 goals but make no mistake, Coutinho and Iago Aspas are proving to be huge creative outlets. It is looking like Brendan Rodgers’ philosophy is taking root and he finally has assembled the pieces to take the team into a top 4 position. Holding on to Luis Suarez should make that goal easier to attain.
David Moyes
I will admit, I wavered quite a bit on this decision. Does the lack of a signing, which he promised United fans mind you, count against him? Or does his resolute stance on Rooney [that could very well change at the time of writing this] deserve commendation? Especially as his Chelsea counterpart has done all he can to ensure this story remains in the news. I ended up deciding to make the decision on purely football decision with one win and a draw, Moyes’ team in undefeated and most importantly, looking like they could mount a challenge. I do have the odd complaint here and there such as why is Giggs afforded THAT much playing time and when does Kagawa feature in his favored position but other than that, Moyes has been solid. Fans will remember how atrocious the defense was last season and under Moyes it appears the team has more intent going forward and is keen to close down spaces. All the pre-season fitness workouts must be playing off. Moyes’ baptism of fire continues away to Liverpool then a derby game against City in week 5. Should Moyes remain unbeaten after week 5, expect commentary about the man tasked with surpassing Sir Alex to change.
One last comment on Moyes, his recent comments about the current squad being sufficient to retain the title has many fans worried but in that same statement, he said a lack of signing will be addressed by pushing players from the academy to fill the need of the first team squad. Not a bad compromise in my honest opinion. United saw some fantastic display from its youngsters and more first team opportunities will do both the club and the players a world of good.
Christian Benteke
How Paul Lambert convinced the Belgian marksman to stay eludes me but with 3 goals in 3 appearances, this move can be shelved under ‘good business’. The 22 year old could very well be in contention for the EPL young player of the year award and the golden boot. Anyone who watched his play against Chelsea cannot helped but be impressed. Despite Villa holding playing catch-up and chasing Chelsea in their opening game, his left-footed shot from the center of the 6yard box into the bottom left corner of the net was sublime.
As soon as Agbonlahor lost his marker and passed to Benteke, the goal was inevitable. To show such composure in the final minutes of the first half after not having any chance show his quality as a forward. He can hustle, he can play as a poacher or off the last man. He is a phenomenal talent and this season will be the reason Aston Villa will be considered a threat by all teams in the EPL.
Frazier Campbell
Few, except hardcore fans might remember when he was the next big Fergie fledgling. Loans to Hull in the 07/08 season and Spurs in the 08/09 season saw him opt for a permanent move to Sunderland in the beginning of the 09/10 season in search for first team football. He has been a quality player throughout his career this far. His 32 appearances for Hull City saw him contribute 15 goals whiles his 1 appearance and 9 substitute cameos saw him chip in with a solitary goal during his loan season at Spurs.
He is a player who needs consistency to perform and because of his versatility upfront where he is comfortable playing as attacking midfielder or forward, he often does not get to spearhead his team’s attack and have more opportunities at goal. His haul during his time at Sunderland was nothing to scoff at with 6 goals mostly coming off the bench. Signed by Cardiff on 21 January, 2013, the 25 year old forward is his team’s primary attacking option and he has rewarded them with 9 goals in 11 appearances.
My reason for the long career history of Frazier Campbell? It was to highlight that his 2 goal salvo which secured Cardiff their first home win in over 50years in the Premier League was no fluke. The lad’s got the talent and has been missing a coach confident enough to entrust the team to him. In Mackay, perhaps Campbell can live up to the heights he threatened to back when he was in the Manchester United academy.
Losers:
The EPL
This week’s round of games saw 3 goalless draws—That happened only twice last season. Whilst more goals are certainly no indication of the quality of a league, it certainly does make for a more entertaining one. The yet-to-be-confirmed signing of Gareth Bale by Real Madrid sees the league lose one of its most prominent players. Should Bale leave the EPL, it is imperative that this season produces a new superstar icon to not only be the face of the league and promote it worldwide but give newcomers an exciting player to rally around.
Everton
They just can’t seem to catch a break huh? In their opening game against Norwich, they showed great resolve to cancel out Norwich’s opener in the 61st minute and take the lead 4minutes later only to have Norwich rally and score the final goal of the game in the 71st minute. This week’s game against West Brom saw them none of their 8 shots on target find the back of the net.
West Brom had their goalpost to thank when Marouane Fellaini right footed shot from the center of the box in the 81st minute came of the right-post. Two games played with no win, their next set of fixture will be challenging. First, they face newly promoted Cardiff City who will still be on a high from beating Manchester City then host Mourinho’s Chelsea at Goodison Park. Four games will be too early to predict how Martinez’s boys will fare this season but a win soon will definitely calm the Goodison faithful.
Manchester City
Should calls of Hart’s drop in form be taken seriously? Yes and no. Yes because he made 2 errors and thus essentially lost them 3 points. In a league where the title has been decided by goal difference recently, that is very unforgivable. No because, for all his occasional individual errors, Hart is a solid keeper. City find themselves in the losers section for failing to have enough cover for their center-back position. Javi Garcia may be a solid defensive midfielder but a center-back he is not. For all City’s attacking wealth, especially their recent signings, you get the feeling that a long injury spell for any of their central midfielders and defenders will leave them in a precarious position. Pelligrini has some time to rectify this in the transfer window—how he reacts to this loss will be an important determinant City’s ability to mount a charge for this title.
Teams to draw or win
This is the last place you would expect to find Swansea but after an opening day 4-1 loss to Manchester United, they followed it up with a 1 goal loss at White Hart lane to a Soldado penalty. This concern may prove to be premature as their main striker is yet to play a full 90minutes and he has scored a goal at Old Trafford. His time on the pitch has shown promise as his link up play with Michu and Shelvey is promising. The Swans next face West Brom away, Liverpool at home, Crystal Palace away and Arsenal away. The point haul target should be range from 5pts-9pts for this round of fixtures. For all Swans fans, be patient.
Norwich is the other team yet to win or draw and like Swansea, they should at the very least aim to grab some points in their next 5 round of games as only Spurs in the 4th rounds of matches and Chelsea in week 7 are significantly difficult oppositions. Norwich can hope for a win or draw against Aston Villa, Stoke and Southampton. For any football fan out there looking for a reason to catch the occasional Norwich game, it’s the 19 year old English midfielder Nathan Redmond. His talent and potential suggest he could be a big-named player in the next 5 years and at Norwich, he is an unpressurized environment to hone his skills.
Newcastle United
It is tempting to place the blame of Newcastle’s demise at the feet of Alan Pardew but that will be a wayyy to easy solution. On paper, the team should not be a shadow of the team whose performances 2 seasons ago saw Pardew rewarded with a 6year contract. You could cite poor boardroom decisions that are affecting the on-field performance of the team and the alarming lack of depth in the current squad and you will be right. Can Newcastle pull off a top 6 finish? I doubt it and I worry for them because they are sure to lose their best performers should this happen. They are struggling to attract talent and hold on to their own—I dare you to name a manager finds himself in a more inextricable position.
Argentina will be aiming for a record-breaking 16th Copa America title when they take on Colombia
The Copa America 2024 is set for an electrifying conclusion as defending champions Argentina face off against Colombia at the Hard Rock Stadium in Florida on Sunday. This highly anticipated final marks the first-ever Copa America final meeting between these two footballing powerhouses. Argentina aim to secure a record-breaking 16th title, making them the most successful side in the competition’s history.
Argentina’s road to the final has been marked by grit and determination. They navigated a nerve-wracking penalty shootout against Ecuador in the quarter-finals before securing a comfortable 2-0 victory over Canada in the semi-finals. Julian Alvarez opened the scoring, followed by a historic goal from Lionel Messi, who now stands as the second-highest male goalscorer in international football with 109 goals.
Argentina’s unbeaten streak now extends to 10 matches, and they remain unbeaten in major tournament knockout games on American soil since the 1994 World Cup. It is no understatement that they go into the clash as favourites.
Colombia are no pushovers, however. They have been in exceptional form. Since their 1-0 loss to Argentina in World Cup qualifying in February 2022, they have embarked on a record-breaking unbeaten run of 28 matches.
Jefferson Lerma’s header gave Colombia the lead before Daniel Munoz’s red card put them at a numerical disadvantage against Uruguay. Despite this setback, Colombia’s resilience shone through as they held on to secure their place in the final. The victory over Uruguay was marred by a brawl involving Uruguayan players and Colombian supporters, but Colombia’s focus remained unwavering. This final represents a chance for Colombia to end a long wait since their first Copa America triumph in 2001.
Team News and Predicted XI
Argentina
For the final, Argentina face no injury or suspension issues. Head coach Lionel Scaloni is expected to maintain an unchanged lineup. The defence will feature a solid back four with Gonzalo Montiel, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, and Nicolas Tagliafico, with Emiliano Martinez as the goalkeeper.
In the midfield, Enzo Fernandez and Rodrigo De Paul are anticipated to keep their places, even though Giovani Lo Celso and Exequiel Palacios are pushing for a start. Angel Di Maria is poised for his international farewell on the right wing. Alexis Mac Allister, who has been impressive on the international stage, will play a crucial role, linking up with Messi from the midfield.
Lionel Messi, who overcame a leg injury to play the full match against Canada, will lead the attack alongside Julian Alvarez. Lautaro Martinez, the tournament’s top scorer, is expected to begin on the bench and should be brought on in the second half.
Predicted Playing XI (4-4-2): Emi. Martinez; Molina, Romero, Lis. Martinez, Tagliafico; Mac Allister, E. Fernandez, De Paul, Di Maria; Messi, Alvarez
Colombia
With Daniel Munoz suspended, Santiago Arias is set to start at right-back, joining Davinson Sanchez, Carlos Cuesta, and Johan Mojica in a solid four-man backline. Camilo Vargas will likely be the goalkeeper.
In midfield, Jefferson Lerma and Richard Ríos are expected to form the double pivot, providing protection for the defence and allowing the attacking players to push forward.
Captain James Rodriguez, who has recorded a tournament-high six assists, will continue in the number 10 role. He will be supported by Liverpool’s Luis Diaz and Fluminense’s Jhon Arias on the flanks.
Jhon Cordoba, who has contributed with two goals and two assists, is expected to lead the attack, with Jhon Duran and Rafael Santos Borre available as options.
Predicted Playing XI (4-2-3-1): Vargas; Santiago Arias, Sanchez, Cuesta, Mojica; Rios, Lerma; Jhon Arias, Rodriguez, Diaz; Cordoba
Key Stats
- Victory will see Argentina win their 16th Copa America title, making them the most successful side in the competition’s illustrious history.
- Colombia are unbeaten in their last 28 international games.
- Argentina have won 26 of their 43 meetings against Colombia in all competitions.
- A win for Colombia will see them win just their second Copa America title, their first since 2001.
Match Deciding Duel
Enzo Fernandez (Argentina) vs James Rodriguez (Colombia)
Argentina have been solid in defence and penetrating their backline has proven to be a challenge for most sides in the competition. Colombia have a rather dynamic attack but will depend on the veteran James Rodriguez to act as the playmaker.
With the likes of Luis Diaz able to make the most of opportunities, the onus will be on Enzo Fernandez to ensure Rodriguez does not have space to manoeuvre in. The duel between the two players could certainly set the tone for which way the cookie crumbles on the night.
Prediction
Argentina 2-1 Colombia
The clash is likely to be an entertaining one with the midfield battle expected to set the tone for the result. Argentina. however, have more strength in depth and the ability to bring a player of Lautaro Martinez’s calibre off the bench in the second half is akin to a cheat code. The Inter Milan star is expected to lead the defending champions to a close 2-1 win on the night.
Spain and England will face off for continental supremacy in the Euro 2024 final
As Euro 2024 reaches its climax, the football world braces for a thrilling final between Spain and England at the Olympiastadion in Berlin. This highly anticipated match will determine the champions of Europe, with Spain looking to add to their illustrious history and England aiming to lift the Henri Delaunay Trophy for the first time.
Spain, guided by Luis de la Fuente, entered the tournament somewhat under the radar but quickly established themselves as a formidable contender. They navigated the so-called ‘Group of Death’ with ease, securing nine points from three matches against Croatia, Italy, and Albania. Impressively, they emerged from the group stage without conceding a goal to an opposition player.
In the knockout stages, Spain demonstrated their resilience and quality. A stunning 4-1 comeback against Georgia in the last-16 and a tense extra-time victory over hosts Germany in the quarter-finals showcased their grit and talent. The semi-final against France was another test of their mettle, with young star Lamine Yamal lighting up the Allianz Arena and Dani Olmo sealing the win.
Spain’s journey to the final has not been without challenges, but their blend of experience and youthful exuberance has seen them through. They now stand on the brink of history, aiming to become the first European men’s team to win four major tournaments consecutively.
England’s Euro 2024 campaign has been a rollercoaster. Gareth Southgate’s men had a mixed group stage, winning only once against Serbia and drawing against Denmark and Slovenia. Their knockout phase has been a tale of resilience and drama, coming from behind in both the last-16 and quarter-finals.
A lacklustre win over Slovakia and a penalty shootout victory against Switzerland set the stage for a semi-final clash with the Netherlands. Despite early setbacks, including a goal from Dutch prodigy Xavi Simons, England produced their best performance of the tournament. A late winner from Ollie Watkins, following a perfect penalty from Harry Kane, propelled them to their second consecutive Euro final.
Southgate’s squad has shown incredible determination and character, setting new records along the way. Kane’s scoring feats and the team’s ability to perform under pressure have been pivotal to their success.
We take a look at how both sides could line up on the night and what tactics they might employ.
Team News and Predicted XI
Spain
Spain’s bad-tempered quarter-final against Germany saw Dani Carvajal and Robin Le Normand fall foul of the referee, leading to their suspensions for the semi-final. Both players are now back at De la Fuente’s disposal, bringing much-needed fresh legs to the Roja XI. Carvajal will replace Jesus Navas, while Le Normand should push Nacho to the bench.
Spain are expected to maintain a 4-3-3 formation with Unai Simon in goal. Daniel Carvajal and Marc Cucurella should hold the flanks in defence, while Robin Le Normand and Aymeric Laporte should form the centre-back pairing. Rodri should form the midfield pivot, with Dani Olmo and Fabian Ruiz pushing forward.
Skipper Alvaro Morata should lead the line with the electric duo of Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams providing support. Morata was initially a concern given his freak injury after the win against France. Thankfully for Spain, he trained normally and should lead them out.
Predicted Playing XI (4-3-3): Simon; Carvajal, Le Normand, Laporte, Cucurella; Ruiz, Rodri, Olmo; Yamal, Morata, Williams
England
England arrive in Berlin with a fully fit squad, including Luke Shaw, who has recovered from injury. Shaw’s performance against Switzerland and his effective stint in the semi-final suggests he may start, replacing Kieran Trippier at left-back.
Southgate is likely to stick with his preferred 3-4-2-1 formation. Jordan Pickford will guard the goal, with a back three of John Stones, Harry Maguire, and Marc Guehi.
Shaw and Kyle Walker will operate as wing-backs, while Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham form the midfield pivot. Phil Foden and Bukayo Saka will support captain Harry Kane in attack. Southgate has enough game-changers on the bench and it remains to be seen if he will have the nerve to make bold calls or play the long game and roll the dice.
Predicted Playing XI (4-3-3): Pickford; Walker, Stones, Guehi; Saka, Mainoo, Rice, Shaw; Bellingham, Foden; Kane
Key Stats
- A victory on the night will see Spain secure their fourth title, making them the most successful side in the competition’s history.
- A win for England will see them triumph in the European Championships for the first time in their history.
- Spain and England have faced off 27 times in all competitions. La Roja have won 10 games while England have won 14. Three games ended in a draw.
- England have never lost to Spain in a UEFA European Championship clash before.
Match Deciding Duel
Lamine Yamal (Spain) vs Luke Shaw (Spain)
Lamal has been a critical difference-maker for Spain in this year’s tournament and will hope to end it on a high. Up against the recently returned Luke Shaw, he will aim to run rings against the English veteran.
Shaw’s ability to get caught out could provide Yamal the space he needs to run into and put the English backline into disarray. This should also subsequently free up Dani Olmo to make his trademarks into the box.
Prediction
Spain 1-1 England (Spain to Win on Penalties)
England will be keen to end their trophy drought and also go one better than last time around. While they have a strong squad with plenty of depth, Southgate’s inability to take calculated risks should play right into Spain’s hands. It remains unlikely that the trophy will go ‘home’ anytime soon.
Argentina and Canada will face off in the first semifinal of Copa America 2024, a repeat of the competition opener from Group A
Canada have a golden opportunity to make history as they face defending champions Argentina in the first semi-final of Copa America 2024 at MetLife Stadium on Tuesday.
In a rematch of their tournament opener, Canada can become the second CONCACAF team to reach the Copa America final. Both sides advanced to the semi-finals via penalty shootouts, with Argentina defeating Ecuador and Canada overcoming Venezuela after 1-1 draws in regular time respectively.
Argentina’s path to the semi-finals has been fortified by their exceptional defence and goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. The victory over Ecuador secures their fifth consecutive appearance in the Copa America semi-finals. Historically, Argentina have been strong at this stage, progressing in seven of their last eight attempts, with the only setback being against Brazil in 2019.
A triumph on Tuesday would mark the first time Argentina reached the Copa America final as defending champions since 1959. Scaloni’s team has been defensively sound, conceding just once throughout the tournament. The Albiceleste are unbeaten in their last nine matches across all competitions, allowing only three goals during this period.
On the other hand, Canada has shown remarkable resilience since their initial loss to Argentina. Jesse Marsch’s squad has conceded just once in their last three games. They are the third CONCACAF team to reach the Copa America semi-finals in their debut appearance, following Honduras and Mexico. They are also the first from the region to advance this far since the USA in 2016.
This semi-final marks Canada’s fifth appearance in the final four of a continental tournament this century. They have progressed beyond this stage twice, in the 2023 Nations League and the 2000 Gold Cup. Canada aims to emulate Mexico’s 2001 Copa America run, where Mexico reached the final before losing to Colombia.
Argentina’s defensive stability and tactical discipline under Scaloni will be pivotal, also giving their world-class frontline a base to build upon. Canada, under Marsch, has transformed into a more disciplined and resilient team. Jonathan David and Alphonso Davies will be crucial in breaking down Argentina’s defence. SoccerSouls takes a closer look at this clash.
Team News and Predicted XI
Argentina
Lionel Messi was not at his best against Ecuador and will be keen to make amends for the penalty miss in the shootout. he missed the final group game with a hamstring injury but now appears to be back to full fitness.
Lionel Scaloni is likely to retain his flexible 4-3-3 formation with Emiliano Martínez in goal. He should be protected by the back four of Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez and Marcos Acuna.
Midfielder Leandro Paredes should perform the role of the pivot in the centre, giving Liverpool star Alexis Mac Allister and the dynamic Rodrigo De Paul the freedom to push forward. Lionel Messi is expected to don the playmaker’s role with Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez leading the line. Angel Di Maria will offer Argentina another option off the bench should they need to shift gears.
Probable Lineup (4-3-3): Emi. Martinez; Molina, Romero, Li. Martinez, Acuna; Mac Allister, Paredes, De Paul; Messi, La. Martinez, Alvarez
Canada
Inter Milan Tajon Buchanan remains a major doubt for Canada after he suffered a broken tibia during training just days before their match against Venezuela. This injury puts his participation in doubt not just for the semi-final clash against Argentina but also for the remainder of the tournament.
Jesse Marsch has an otherwise fully fit squad to choose from for the clash and is expected to set his side up in a 4-2-3-1 formation with Maxime Crépeau in goal. The shot-stopper should be protected by the back four of Alistair Johnston, Moise Bombito, Derek Cornelius, and Alphonso Davies.
Stephen Eustáquio and Jonathan Osorio should form the double pivot, freeing up Jonathan David to act as the playmaker. Cyle Larin should start up front, with Richie Laryea and Jacob Shaffelburg providing support out wide.
Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Crepeau; Johnston, Bombito, Cornelius, Davies; Osorio, Eustaquio; Laryea, David, Shaffelburg; Larin
Key Stats
- Argentina have never conceded a goal against Canada.
- Argentina have not lost a major tournament match on U.S. soil since a 3-2 defeat to Romania in the 1994 World Cup’s round of 16.
- A win on the night will see Canmada make it to their first-ever Copa America final at the first time of asking.
- Argentina have not made it to the final of the competition as defending champions since 1959.
Match Deciding Duel
Lautaro Martinez (Argentina) vs Derek Cornelius (Canada)
Lautaro Martinez is the top scorer in the tournament this season and has made it a habit of scoring late goals for Argentina. This augurs well for a side that is defensively compact, giving them a second wind to settle the game as the opposition gets tired. Derek Cornelius will have his hands full all night but will know that he cannot slack off for even a second with Martinez on the prowl.
Argentina’s ability to score late coupled with Canada’s vulnerabilities in the second half of the game makes for a thrilling finale in the final 30 minutes of the first semifinal. While Argentina do have several threats and matchwinners in their lineup, Martinez’s clinical touch has given them the edge this summer. He will certainly be aiming to make a difference once again on Tuesday.
Transfer Watch
Jonathan David
The LOSC Lille attacker is Canada’s trump card going forward and is expected to leave the Ligue 1 giants this summer. David is a pacy player whose ability to get into space and clinical ability in the box helps make a difference. While several clubs are keeping tabs on him, a solid showing against the defending FIFA World Cup holders will only help boost his profile among potential suitors.
David will be up against the meanest defence in the competition on the night. The duo of Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez aren’t just formidable defenders but their ‘take no prisoners’ approach will certainly add a physical element to the duel. David is unlikely to come up against a meaner backline in the competition and how well he handles this challenge could determine his stock this summer.
Prediction
Argentina 2-0 Canada
Both teams will be familiar with each other having felt each other out on the opening day. The stakes are much higher this time round and Canada will be hoping for a monumental upset. Argentina were handed a late scare against Ecuador and that perhaps will ensure they don’t take Tuesday’s game for granted. The game should be a hard-fought one with Argentina’s match winners making the difference in the second half of the game.
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