Football
World Cup 2022 Finals Predictions
Published
9 months agoon

All good things must come to an end. For a tournament that occurs once every four years, it’s understandable why there’s so much emotion, as the last game of the tournament will be played on the 18th of December at the Lusail stadium. Two teams have had to overcome a series of challenges to get to this point. Argentina and France are the teams that made it to the 2022 FIFA Qatar World Cup finals. We are sure of an exciting game owing to the character of the teams involved. Argentina overcame an early scare in the tournament to become one of the best attacking teams in this year’s tournament, while France has lived up to expectations at every point of the tournament.
Road To The 2022 World Cup Finals
Here we will look at both teams’ journey to the finals, from their first group game to the semi-finals.
Argentina
If you look at how Argentina kicked off the tournament, it’s incredible how they bounced back from an early scare in their opening game and remained consistent to make it to the finals. Suffering defeat at the hands of the second-lowest ranked team in your opening game in the World Cup is quite demoralizing, but the Argentines took motivation from that and surprised the whole world with their reaction. Here is how Argentina progressed to the Finals.
- Argentina’s opening game, as mentioned earlier, was against the second-lowest-ranked team in the tournament, Saudi Arabia. They suffered a 2-1 loss, to everyone’s surprise. Lionel Messi opened the scoring via a penalty, but the Arabians responded with two goals in the second half to win the game.
- Next up, Argentina was up against Mexico and won by two goals to nil for their first points in the group.
- Another 2-0 win against Poland secured Argentina’s spot as the group leader to progress to the round of 16.
- Argentina was up next against Australia in the round of 16. They defeated Australia 2-1 to progress to the quarter-finals
- Argentina now faced the Netherlands in the quarter-finals. Messi gave Nahuel Molina the assist for his first-ever international goal as Argentina took the lead. Messi converted a penalty kick in the 73rd minute to make it 2-0 for Argentina. To keep the Netherlands within striking distance of Argentina, 2-1, substitute Wout Weghorst breached the Argentine defense and pierced the goal. He scored again late in extra time to force extra time and ultimately force penalties, which Argentina eventually won 4-2.
- Argentina played former World Cup finalist Croatia in the semi-finals. Lionel Messi led Argentina to a 3-0 win over Croatia. He scored and provided two assists as he was involved in all three goals for the Argentines. It’s noteworthy that Julian Alvarez scored two goals, including a beautiful solo goal in the game.
France
France faced a lot of adversities heading into this tournament. A number of injuries hit them before the tournament began. Besides their dynamic midfield duos of Paul Pogba and N’golo Kante, who were not registered due to injuries, Christopher Nkuku and Karim Benzema suffered injuries in training a few days before the tournament. However, The French’s depth was enough to compensate for the lack of such key figures in the squad as they cruised to the finals.
- France opened the tournament with a win over an emphatic 4-1 win over Australia.
- They went on to win their second group game 2-1 against Denmark. This was enough to secure qualification to the round of 16.
- In a game that did not affect their qualification hopes, France lost their third group game by a goal to nil to Tunisia.
- France was up against Poland in the round of 16, and they cruised past them, winning three goals to one.
- France played England in the quarter-finals, and a second-half Harry Kane penalty miss ensured their progression to the semi-finals. France opened the scoring, but England got a penalty to bring the game to level terms. Giroud, in the second half, put the French team up front, proving decisive.
- France was up against the dark horse of the tournament Morocco in the semi-finals. In the first half, the reigning champions took the early lead in the game via AC Milan’s defender’s strike, Theo Hernadez. The French did well to fend off Morocco’s attack to bring the game to level terms, and Hugo Lloris was key to that as he made quite a number of impressive saves. A Kolo Muani second-half goal was enough to secure the win for France, who will now make a back-to-back finals appearance.
Match Prediction
Argentina has the heart and drives to win it all; you can see it clearly in Lionel Messi. His body language shows how much this means to him, and we may be seeing a side of him he had never shown since the beginning of his career. What the French team has is experience. They have been here before and have several players from the last group that won the trophy in 2018.
The French team has a solid defense, and the attack is probably in contention with the Argentines for the best in the tournament. While Messi might seem destined for ultimate success, this French team will be tough to beat.
Also, Argentina greatly depends on Messi, which is a weakness. France might survive the Argentine storm on their way to a third World Cup victory thanks to their apparent incapacity to panic and evident firepower. The pick here is for France to win but by a thin Margin.
For player props, Mbappe should get on the scoresheet, while Lionel Messi also tends to thrive on the biggest of stages. Messi to score or assist is the second pick for player props.
The tournament is not the easiest to predict. Argentina winning will be the perfect tale to Lionel Messi’s career as the World Cup is all he needs to etch his name in the history books as the greatest player ever to grace a football pitch. Meanwhile, for France, it’s the birth of a new footballing legend at a very young age.
Kylian Mbappe is the man in question, and at the young age of 23, two World Cup trophies would be insane. However, this prediction favors the more experienced team, which does not depend on a one-person wonder to win games.
Follow Half A Goal for more football predictions and previews!
Football
Overview for UEFA Europa League, and Conference League and Champions League group stage 2023
Published
5 days agoon
September 19, 2023
Football fans and analysts are eagerly waiting for the start of the UEFA Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League, as the excitement for the sport is at its highest. The competition will showcase top European teams, displaying their skills, determination, and passion. In this article, we will analyze the upcoming first round of Europa, Conference and Champions League group stage and make predictions using our football knowledge. It is important to note that all teams are starting from scratch, which may lead to some unexpected outcomes. Stay tuned to find out if we predict any upsets.
This article was prepared with the help of our partners Free Betting Reviews!
UEFA Europa League, Conference League, and Champions League group stage dates
Below, we have outlined the key fixtures and dates for matchday one games of the Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League that we will be discussing:
UEFA Champions League 1st round
Tuesday, 19 September
- AC Milan vs Newcastle United
- Paris Saint-Germain vs Dortmund
Wednesday, 20 September
- Real Madrid vs Union Berlin
- Bayern Munich vs Man United
Europa League group stage matchday 1
Thursday, 21 September
- Ajax vs Marseille
- West Ham vs TSC Backa Topola
- LASK vs Liverpool
UEFA Europa Conference League group stage matchday 1
Thursday, 21 September
- Club Brugge vs Besiktas
- Dinamo Zagreb vs Astana
Europa League, Conference League and Champions League group stage Round One matches preview
UEFA Champions League group stage
AC Milan vs Newcastle United
After ending a three-game losing streak with a win against Brentford, Newcastle still faces some challenges, as highlighted by their vulnerability in that match. AC Milan will be looking to avenge their recent humiliating loss to city rivals Inter Milan in Serie A. With Tomori returning to the starting lineup, Milan’s offense is expected to beat a weak Newcastle backline.
Paris Saint-Germain vs Borussia Dortmund
This match is expected to be high-scoring, with both teams boasting talented forwards. While Donyell Malen has three goals for Dortmund this season, Kylian Mbappe has seven league goals for PSG. However, PSG’s defense has been weak, securing only one clean sheet in five league games. Dortmund is coming off a 4-2 win against Freiburg.
Real Madrid vs Union Berlin
Real Madrid hasn’t been impressive this season, despite being in first position in La Liga. Union Berlin, on the other hand, started well in the Bundesliga before losing two straight games. They are likely to score, though, having scored nine goals in their first four games. We predict both teams will score.
Bayern Munich vs Manchester United
Bayern Munich is expected to comfortably defeat Manchester United, who have been struggling in the Premier League lately. Although the Bavarians come into the match off an intense 2-2 draw against Bayer Leverkusen, they are much stronger than Manchester United.
UEFA Europa League
Ajax vs Marseille
Marseille has started well in Ligue 1 this season, while Ajax has struggled in the Eredivisie. Marseille has the upper hand in this match, and the loss of a key player in Mohammed Kudus in the transfer window could weaken Ajax’s offense.
West Ham vs TSC Backa Topola
After winning the Conference League last season, West Ham has started well in the EPL this season. Although Backa Topola currently tops the Serbian League, they’ll likely be no match for West Ham, who have been scoring lots of goals lately.
LASK vs Liverpool
Liverpool have found form again and are tied for second in the Premier League. LASK is not expected to pose much of a challenge to them.
Europa Conference League
Club Brugge vs Besiktas
Club Brugge has won twice, and Besiktas once, in their previous meetings. Although Besiktas remains unbeaten in the Turkish league this season, Club Brugge is expected to win at home.
Dinamo Zagreb vs Astana
This match is expected to be a one-sided affair, with Dinamo Zagreb having easily defeated Astana in the Champions League qualifiers. Dinamo should score more than two goals.
In conclusion, the opening round of UEFA Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League fixtures promises to be action-packed and exciting. Fans around the world are eagerly anticipating the mouth-watering clashes between some of Europe’s biggest football clubs, and the matches are sure to offer plenty of drama and excitement. With so much at stake in these early rounds, every team will be giving it their all, and we look forward to seeing some thrilling football over the coming weeks and months.
Football
Italian Serie A upcoming matches overview: September 2023
Published
5 days agoon
September 19, 2023
Following the international break, domestic football has resumed in Italy, igniting a renewed passion for the sport. Fans of the Italian Serie A can expect an electrifying September 2023 as top-flight clubs gear up to compete on the revered pitch. As the season progresses, there is a palpable sense of excitement for upcoming matches, and the football community is abuzz with anticipation. This piece will delve into soccer predictions, offering analysis, insights, and forecasts for Serie A upcoming matches slated for September 2023. Prepare to explore the world of football and uncover what’s in store for some of Italy’s most renowned clubs.
This article was prepared with the help of our partners Free Betting Reviews!
Top Serie A upcoming matches
AC Milan vs Hellas Verona
- Venue: San Siro, Milan, Italy.
- Date: Saturday, September 23
- Time: 15:00 CET
Preview
AC Milan will be facing Hellas Verona in what is expected to be one of the most exciting Serie A upcoming matches. AC Milan is determined to recover from their 5-2 loss to Inter Milan, despite having a Champions League match against Newcastle midweek. Meanwhile, Hellas Verona has started the Serie A season well, winning two out of three games. They will use their match against Bologna as preparation for their match against Milan. Despite the strong start from Hellas Verona, Milan is favored to win due to their talented team and determination to recover from recent defeats.
Sassuolo vs Juventus
- Venue: Mapei Stadium – Città del Tricolore, Reggio Emilia, Italy.
- Date: Saturday, September 23
- Time: 18:00 CET
Preview
Juventus currently holds the second position in the league rankings, having won three matches and drawn one in their first four games. In their most recent match, they secured a convincing 3-1 win against Lazio, demonstrating their skill and ability. With such a great start to the season, Juventus has high hopes for a successful campaign. On the other hand, Sassuolo is not faring as well, sitting in 17th place. They have only won one match and lost three. Their defense is a major concern, as they have already allowed nine goals in the league, the second-highest among teams. Due to the vast contrast in performance and form, Juventus is the clear favorite in this match.
Monza vs Lazio
- Venue: U-Power Stadium, Monza, Italy.
- Date: Saturday, September 23
- Time: 20:45 CET
Preview
The previous Serie A match saw Monza achieve a respectable 1-1 draw against Leece, showing their perseverance during the game. In contrast, Lazio’s recent game saw them suffer a 3-1 loss to Juventus, highlighting their poor performance this season, having only won one game and lost three games. Monza has only scored three goals in four games, while Lazio has only managed to score an average of one goal per game. Based on this, it is likely that the upcoming match will have few goals scored.
Bologna vs Napoli
- Venue: Stadio Renato Dall’Ara, Bologna, Italy.
- Date: Sunday, September 24
- Time: 18:00 CET
Preview
Empoli is at the bottom of the Serie A table and they are getting ready to host the current champions, Napoli. Empoli’s upcoming games will be tough, especially after they were humiliated by Roma recently. This setback has definitely affected their confidence. They will be facing Napoli, a powerful team in Italian football, which will be a difficult challenge. On the other hand, Napoli is in a confusing situation. Despite being the defending champions, they haven’t been consistent like they were in their previous campaign. A recent draw against Genoa is a good example. However, Napoli wants to prove themselves and redeem themselves, which makes them favorites to win this game.
Torino vs Roma
- Venue: Stadio Olimpico Grande Torino, Turin, Italy.
- Date: Sunday, September 24
- Time: 20:45 CET
Preview
In the upcoming matchday 5 at Stadio Olimpico Grande Torino, the main focus will be on the game between Torino and Roma. However, Torino’s game against Salernitana is pending. Torino’s season has been a mix of wins, losses, and draws in their first three games. Therefore, their performance against Salernitana will set the tone for their upcoming match.
On the other hand, Roma made their presence known with an impressive 7-0 win over Empoli in their previous game. Roma’s offense displayed their attacking potential, leaving fans excited for their upcoming match. With Roma’s offense ready to shine, expectations are high for a thrilling and high-scoring encounter.
The upcoming month of football holds a range of exciting and memorable fixtures on the pitch, starting with AC Milan’s pursuit of redemption against Hellas Verona, followed by Juventus’ impressive form against Sassuolo. Monza’s resilience against Lazio’s troubles and Torino’s potential showdown with a resurgent Roma are also on the horizon. Lastly, Empoli’s daunting encounter with reigning champions Napoli is sure to provide a wealth of emotions. Don’t forget to follow HaG for more Serie A upcoming matches predictions.
Football
10 young players in Bundesliga to keep an eye in 2023
Published
2 weeks agoon
September 13, 2023
The Bundesliga has a rich footballing legacy, with the league emerging as one of the most competitive and exciting in the world. With a focus on nurturing young prospects, the Bundesliga has become a hotbed for German soccer’s top young players. This article zeroes in on the top 10 young players in Bundesliga expected to make significant impacts by 2023. These exceptional athletes have demonstrated immense potential, captivating fans and experts alike with their skills and potential to become future icons of the game. Follow us as we introduce you to these young talents ready to take the Bundesliga by storm.
This article was prepared with the support of our partners Free Betting Reviews!
The Best 10 young players in Bundesliga
Forwards
Youssoufa Moukoko
At just 18 years old, Moukoko burst onto the scene as the Bundesliga’s youngest-ever player and scorer. With extensive experience in top-level competitions, he has played at a World Cup, the Champions League, the Europa League, and the DFB Cup, netting 12 goals in 56 appearances in Germany’s top-flight league.
Mathys Tel
Tel, an 18-year-old striker, has quickly established himself as Bayern’s go-to marksman. He contributed five goals in 22 matches for Bayern Munich last season, but he has started the current season in remarkable fashion, tallying two goals in just three games.
Victor Boniface
Nigerian striker Victor Boniface has been impressive, bagging the Rookie of the Month award in his first month at Bayer Leverkusen. He has scored four goals and recorded two assists in three Bundesliga games since joining from Belgian side Union Saint-Gilloise, where he scored nine goals and assisted eight in 37 appearances.
Top Young Bundesliga Midfielders
Jamal Musiala
Noted for his elusive playmaking style, Musiala made an impact last season, contributing an impressive 12 goals and ten assists, making him Bayern’s standout goal contributor. Musiala’s defining moment came last season when he secured the Bundesliga title for Bayern with a dramatic last-minute goal.
Xavi Simmons
The 20-year-old midfielder, who scored 19 goals in 34 Eredivisie matches while on loan at PSV Eindhoven from Paris Saint-Germain last season, has earned a spot on the Netherlands national team and has the potential to showcase his talent at Leipzig after the departures of several first-choice players last season.
Florian Wirtz
Considered one of the most promising talents in the sport, Wirtz has gotten off to an excellent start this season, notching a goal and two assists in just three games. Wirtz has the potential to become a crucial figure in Leverkusen’s quest for the title this season if he can sustain his current level of performance.
Manu Kone
At just 21 years old, Manu Koné has emerged as a promising midfielder for Borussia M’gladbach. After a successful loan spell with Toulouse, Koné has become a regular fixture in Bundesliga highlight reels with his physicality, ball control, and ability to outmuscle defenders.
Best young players in Bundesliga: Defenders
Piero Hincapié
Hincapié, 21, has cemented his position as a central defender in Bayern Leverkusen’s revived squad under Xabi Alonso. Previously a left-back, Hincapié has seamlessly transitioned to the central defensive role and excelled. He is crucial to Leverkusen’s impressive start to the season.
Killian Sildillia
The young French talent stands out in an already captivating Freiburg team. His versatility is a key asset as he effortlessly adapts to various defensive positions, consistently performing at a high level of proficiency. Deployed as a right wing-back, his exceptional work rate enables him to excel in one-on-one duels against the Bundesliga’s top-notch attackers.
Goalkeeper
Noah Atubolu
Atubolu’s journey in football has included over 80 appearances for the Freiburg reserves, contributing significantly to their promotion to Germany’s 3. Liga. A consistent representative for Germany, Atubolu has been a part of the U17s squad and is currently the first-choice goalkeeper for the U21s national team. He is also Freiburg’s first-choice goalkeeper.
Germany is home to some of the best and brightest young players in the Bundesliga, with many emerging players set to make significant impacts by 2023. From forwards Youssoufa Moukoko and Victor Boniface to midfielders Jamal Musiala, Xavi Simmons, Florian Wirtz, and Manu Kone, and defenders Piero Hincapié and Killian Sildillia, the Bundesliga is bursting with young stars poised to light up the pitch with their skills and determination. Fans and experts alike are eagerly anticipating how these emerging talents will shape the future of the sport, and we can’t wait to see what these young players achieve next.

Overview for UEFA Europa League, and Conference League and Champions League group stage 2023

Italian Serie A upcoming matches overview: September 2023

2023 Singapore Grand Prix Preview

10 young players in Bundesliga to keep an eye in 2023

Autosport F1 news: September 2023 preview

UEFA Euro 2024 qualifying latest forecasts

What You Need To Know About Asian Handicap Betting on Football

3 Tennis Legends and Their Charitable Endeavours

Football Legends Weighed In: Messi is better than Ronaldo

Tennis Smash: 10 Tennis Players With the Best Overhead Play

NFL Uniform Policies: What Players Can and Cannot Wear

6 Oldest Tennis Players While Still Active
Trending
-
Tennis2 months ago
ATP Washington: Citi Open 2023 – Ranking the Top 5 Tennis Players
-
Football2 months ago
Champions League qualification 2023/24: top 5 teams for group stage
-
Formula 12 months ago
The Unpredictable Thrills of the 2023 Belgian Grand Prix
-
Football2 months ago
Top 3 Teams from the Group Stage of the 2023 Women’s World Cup
-
Martial arts1 month ago
Usyk vs Dubois: Fight details & preview
-
Tennis2 months ago
World-Class Tennis: Mubadala Silicon Valley Classic 2023
-
Football2 months ago
Championship Predictions for New Football Season 2023-24
-
NBA2 months ago
Top 5 NBA Favorites: Championship Contenders and Rankings for 2023