Predictions 15 – 18.12.2023

Arsenal vs Brighton | Premier League

17/12/2023 14:00

Prediction: 2-1

Arsenal, reeling from a recent 1-0 defeat at the hands of Aston Villa, is geared up for redemption in a challenging home fixture against Brighton & Hove Albion on matchday 17. Mikel Arteta’s side, currently seated at second place in the Premier League with 36 points, faces Brighton, trailing by 10 points. This encounter promises excitement, especially considering the recent performances of both teams in league and cup competitions.

Despite a slight slowdown with a draw and a loss in their last two away matches, Arsenal had previously enjoyed a remarkable run of six consecutive wins in various competitions. Brighton, on the other hand, enters this fixture on a positive streak, with two wins and a draw in their last three competitive matches. Notably, Brighton has been a formidable force against Arsenal, securing victories in their last three visits to the Emirates Stadium.

In their recent head-to-head clashes, both teams have consistently produced matches with over 2.5 goals. Brighton has particularly excelled, scoring at least two goals in their last four encounters. The Seagulls boast an impressive record of finding the net in all 16 of their Premier League matches this season. Meanwhile, Arsenal has demonstrated dominance on home turf with six consecutive wins in league and cup competitions.

As the stage is set for this compelling showdown, fans can anticipate a fiercely contested battle between Arsenal and Brighton, with both teams eyeing crucial points in the Premier League.

Liverpool vs Manchester United | Premier League

17/12/2023 16:30

Prediction: 3-1

In the upcoming clash at Anfield Road, Liverpool, led by Jurgen Klopp, will face off against Manchester United, managed by Erik ten Hag, in the 17th round of the Premier League. Liverpool currently leads the standings after a 2-1 victory against Crystal Palace, while Manchester United is trailing by 10 points.

Liverpool’s recent form has been strong, with a noteworthy win against Crystal Palace, although they faced a setback with a loss against Union Saint-Gilloise in the Europa League. Despite this, Liverpool had already secured qualification for the round of 16. On the other hand, Manchester United has experienced a dip in form, suffering defeats in both league and Champions League matches, notably against Bournemouth and Bayern Munich.

 

  • Liverpool has maintained a clean sheet in 7 of their last 9 games against Manchester United at Anfield Road.
  • In the last 4 matches at Anfield Road, Liverpool has not conceded a goal against Manchester United.
  • Recent encounters between Liverpool and Manchester United have seen 6 Over 2.5 outcomes.
  • Liverpool boasts a perfect record at home this season, winning all 11 home games in league and cup competitions.
  • Liverpool has scored at least 2 goals in every home game this season.
  • There have been 9 Over 2.5 outcomes in Liverpool’s 11 home games this season in all competitions.

These stats suggest a strong home advantage for Liverpool, and their defensive record against Manchester United at Anfield Road adds an extra layer of confidence. The match is expected to be intense, with both teams aiming for a crucial victory.

Valencia vs Barcelona | La Liga

16/12/2023 20:00

Prediction: 0-1

The upcoming Mestalla match stands as a pivotal moment, questioning whether Barcelona is indeed in the midst of a genuine crisis. The uncertainties surrounding Barcelona have multiplied in recent weeks, marking a departure from the promising trajectory seen earlier.

The scenario is delicate; both teams are grappling with a lack of brilliance and defensive stability. Barcelona, which appeared to be on the verge of a breakthrough, now finds itself grappling with a “bad period.” Coach Xavi shoulders the responsibility of rejuvenating a team that faced significant struggles in the Champions League and faltered crucially in the league. While the coach and the center forward shine, other departments within the Catalan squad seem to lack both vigor and creativity.

Valencia, although trailing in the standings, is desperately seeking a catalyst to reignite their championship aspirations and salvage their season.  Neither squad has displayed notable brilliance recently; Barcelona suffered setbacks in both the league and the Champions League, leaving Xavi with the task of boosting morale. Valencia, too, is far from its peak. The hosts, coming off a 1-0 defeat to Getafe in the last league match, cannot afford additional missteps.

Examining recent performances, Valencia endured three defeats in the last four league encounters, while Barcelona faced two consecutive losses. The first, a 2-4 defeat at home against Girona, was followed by a 3-2 loss in the Champions League match against Antwerp. Notably, Barcelona conceded six goals in the last two games, with at least one goal conceded in the past six matches.

As both teams grapple with their challenges, the outcome of this match remains uncertain, adding an element of suspense to the broader narrative of their respective seasons.