National Teams to Make Adjustments Before World Cup

After this week’s pre-World Cup friendlies, several teams will be making adjustments to their squad and tactics before final decisions are made for Brazil.  Several teams were surely disappointed with their results following Wednesday’s matches.  The US along with Italy, Greece, the Netherlands, and many more suffered tough losses as they prepare for the World Cup

Sunday Match Previews and Predictions 2/23

Though most of the major league matches are occurring today, tomorrow's matches will also be significant for many teams.  The three matches affecting three of the four biggest leagues in the world are occurring on Sunday morning, so the following are some match previews and predictions. (Matches are in order of start time):

Liverpool vs. Swansea (Sunday 8:30 AM ET)

 

This Sunday's match at Anfield is an important one for the Reds.  They currently sit in the fourth spot in the table, only one point behind Manchester City.  This weekend's home match provides a great opportunity to move up in the table.  The Reds have had amazing home form this season having only lost one game at Anfield so far.  This will surely have an effect on tomorrow's match.  Though the two sides finished 2-2 earlier this season at Liberty Stadium, expect a home win from the Merseyside hosts.  As always Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge will cause major issues for the opposing defense.  Also watch for two young members of the Red's squad Coutinho and nineteen year old Raheem Sterling.  Swansea, however, are not without threats of their own.  Former Red Jonjo Shelvey will surely cause the Liverpool defense problems along with striker Wilfried Bony.  Swansea likely being without Michu is also going to be another problem for the Swans.  Expect to see at least one goal at the Kop end from one of the league's top strikers.

Prediction:  Liverpool win 3-1

Saturday Match Previews and Predictions 2/22

This weekend is going to play host to many important matches across the world's top leagues.  The following are some match previews and predictions. (Matches are in order of start time):

Chelsea vs. Everton (Saturday 7:45 AM ET)

With Chelsea attempting to hold its place at the top of the table, and Roberto Martinez's Everton side trying to force its way into European football for next season, expect a thriller!  Despite Martinez and Everton being within five points of the Europa League qualifying position, injuries will most likely to prove to be an issue in this fixture.  With both Romelu Lukaku and Arouna Koné still out with injury, lack of options at forward could prove to be a major problem for the Toffees.  Meanwhile a very strong lineup for José Mourinho and the Blues is likely to cause Everton a multitude of problems.  Watch for in-form Eden Hazard to be a major threat after netting a hat trick against Newcastle in the Blues last Premier League fixture.

Prediction: Chelsea win 3-2