Sometimes we see a weekend packed with derbies, on others times there may be multiple title clashes or relegation dogfights but no said cases are offered up by the calendar this time around. However, the common denominator for almost everybody are the goals. At this point of the season we know everything about a team's strengths and especially weaknesses that they will not be able to fix, and often a broken defence will stay that way - unless the transfer window allows the opportunity to strengthen.
LIVERPOOL v MANCHESTER UNITED - Both Teams To Score @1.83
MILAN v FIORENTINA - Both Teams To Score @1.80
In this game the real certainty is how uncertain Milan's defending has constantly been. It's proven to be a liability, and Fiorentina are built to exploit this. What seemed a comfortable quarter-final of the Coppa Italia against Carpi turned into a dangerous situation until the very last minute for Milan, showing how just shaky their confidence is right now. However, Fiorentina will be without Gonzalo Rodriguez (suspended), who is not only a defender that needs replacing, but the main support of the Viola's entire defensive structure. Fiorentina also boast the third best attack on the road, with both teams scoring in each of their last 3 away games.
BARCELONA vs ATHLETIC - Barcelona (-2) to win @1.90
The Basque side’s triumph in the Spanish Supercup was the only slip up that prevented Barcelona from equaling their six-trophy haul in 2009 last year. The memory of that double-header is still vivid, so they must not underestimate this game. To put into context just how unstoppable the Blaugrana are at present, Barcelona have won four of their last five home league games, those of which have come by at least three goals.
TOULOUSE vs PSG - PSG (-1) to win @2.05
PSG are out to beat the record of the number of points gained in a season, not only in Ligue 1, but in Europe’s top five leagues. This can be considered an easy game and odds on them winning by at least two goals are very good, especially when taking into account that five of PSG’s last seven league victories has seen them win by two or more goals. If you are still not convinced of it, then it’s worth noting that the WhoScored Match Forecast lists three ways PSG will score.
MANCHESTER CITY vs CRYSTAL PALACE - Draw HT/City FT @4.00
The Etihad Stadium was once a fortress where Manchester City were building their title hopes. They have started to drop points at home having been held to a 0-0 draw with Everton in midweek, but fortunately, they welcome Crystal Palace, whose form has - as expected - begun to tail off as they fail to keep up the intensity for the entire 90 minutes on the road. It’s worth noting that, in the last nine league games away from home, Palace have been drawing eight. City have the quality to come away with the win.
Who will your money be on this weekend? Let us know in the comments below
