Weekend football preview

A huge week-end of football coming up in the major European leagues after the international break.

I like Arsenal's chances against Blackburn. The Gunners do not have any margin for error and they won't come any easier than Blackburn. I can't see them failing to get the 3 points here, although you never know with them. A draw-no-bet on Arsenal is recommended. Man Utd face a very tough road at West Ham. They might escape with the 3 points at the end, but West Ham will give them all they can handle. This match can go either way, and is impossible to predict. On Sunday, Man City should dispatch Sunderland even without defenders Micah Richards and Boateng. A draw-no-bet is recommended on the Citizens.

In the Serie A, it's the Milan Derby which is going to play a massive role in the outcome of the title race. I believe Inter is the strongest team in the league and should not fear Milan at the San Siro. I still have reservations about Leonardo as a coach. I give Inter a slight advantage even though they are the "away" team, but this game can go either way. This is a clearly 6-point game for both teams.

This week-end could also see some defining developments in La Liga. Barcelona at Villareal; this is as tough as it gets for the Blaugrana, particularly without Xavi and most probably Messi. This game represents the second most difficult remaining league game for them after the Real Madrid game in some week's time. If they get the 3 points, it would be just massive. Real Madrid welcome Sporting Gijon. This is a straight 3 points for Mourinho's men even with the absence of Ronaldo and Benzema. A win is recommended on the Los Blancos.

In Germany, although they are a team in turmoil, Bayern Munich should beat Monchengladbach at home. A win is recommended on the hosts. I like Wolfsburg chances at home to Frankfurt. With the return of Magath as coach, the hosts should be looking forward to a better remainder of the season and most importantly get out of the relegation zone. A draw-no-bet on Wolfsburg  is recommended.


Win: Real Madrid, Bayern Munich
Draw-no-bet: Arsenal, Man City, Wolfsburg.