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Ballon d’Or 2022 Power Rankings: Benzema Set To Win First Ballon d’Or Award

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ballon d'or

Ballon d’Or 2022 is around the corner and the race is on. 90minsoccer is keeping track of the most suitable player to win the award.

The Ballon d’Or 2022 is gathering momentum as the leagues across Europe are gradually coming to a climax. Argentina captain Lionel Messi won the title for the seventh time in 2021, but with Messi exiting Barcelona last summer as a free agent, he has not been outstanding at PSG possibly because it’s his first season in France, and he is nowhere near the title this year.

Despite all controversy and criticism about the title, Ballon d’Or is still the most important individual award in the history of football as it is recognized globally and the winner of this award can come from any league across Europe.

It can be recalled that earlier in March, the French Football Association announced that the rules for voting the Ballon d’Or winner have changed. One of the key changes is that the performance of the players will henceforth be based on their total performance within a season rather than a calendar year.

That means, the performance of players at the 2022 World Cup, which will commence in November will not be counted as a criterion for winning the 2022 Ballon d’Or award instead, it will be an add-on to the performance of players when voting for the 2023 Ballon d’Or.

Also Read: Real Madrid Emerge as Champions League winner 2022

The importance placed on the Ballon d’Or title (also called Jorginho’s law) was also readjusted, such that the prize of the individual title should be based on the best footballers in each season rather than a footballer who has won more trophies in a season.

Considering all the above-mentioned adjusted criteria, will the defending champion be hoping for the eight golden ball award or is it going to be the beginning of Benzema’s reign? Let’s find out who holds the most power to win the Ballon d’Or 2022 award as the final date is fast approaching.

Also Read: Liverpool fans Maltreated at Champions League final

Here are the top twenty players across various leagues in Europe with the most power for winning the Ballon d’Or 2022 title as compiled on May 16. Two players have dropped out of the top 20 power rankings. They are Erling Haaland (Borussia Dortmund) and Harry Kane (Tottenham)

22. Erling Haaland (Borussia Dortmund)

Previous position: 20th

2021/2022 stats: 37 goals, 9 assists

Ballon do'r haaland

Erling Haaland has been a bigger force to reckon with in the German Bundesliga. The Norwegian has completed a £51 million move to the English side, Manchester City this summer. With a single match left in the German Bundesliga which may be his last for Dortmund, Haaland may give his all to put as many goals as possible as they welcome Hertha Berlin at Iduna Park on Saturday. Haaland has been in a fine form worthy to be counted among the top twenty Ballon d’Or contenders.

21. Harry Kane (Tottenham Hotspurs)

Previous Ranking: 19th

2021/22 stats: 38 goals, 10 assists

ballon 2022 do'r

The England international has been a big name for the Spurs this season. His perfect link-up with fellow teammate Heung-min Son has helped Tottenham be a strong contender for the 2023 Champions League qualification. The English striker increased his goals tally with 3 goals in their victories over Arsenal and Burnley.

20. Rafeal Leao (AC Milan)

Previous Ranking: New Entry

2021/22 Stats: 14 goals, 14 Assists, Won Serie A title.

ballon d'or 2022

Rafeal Leao was popularly nicknamed “the new Thiery Henry” in the Italian Serie A. The young portuguese forward was voted the Serie A Most Valuable Player for the 2021/22 season after he succeeded in firing AC Milan to win the Serie A title after 11 years. His performance for Milan this season landed him in the top 20 spot of the Ballon d’Or 2022 Rankings.

19. Riyad Mahrez (Manchester City)

Previous Ranking: 17th

2021/22 Stats: 29 goals, 12 assists. Won the English Premier League.

ballon dor 2022 mahrez

Riyad Mahrez has been a huge support to Manchester City this season as they battle to save their epileptic attacking force since the exit of Sergio Aguero last summer. His contribution to the club is evident both in domestic and international leagues. In the semi-final stage of the 2021/2022 Champions League, Mahrez scored City’s goal at Santiago Bernabeu with a curled shot and Thibaut Courtois was unable to save. Although his effort was brought to naught when Real Madrid launched an incredible comeback in the stoppage time to book their place in the final stage of the competition. Riyad Mahrez was City’s highest goal scorer in all competition this season.

18. Rodri (Manchester City)

Previous Ranking: 18th

2021/22 stats: 7 goals, 2 assists. Won the EPL title.

ballon d'or 2022

Rodri was one of the unsung heroes in Manchester City’s final day fixture against Aston Villa. The midfielder put up a fine strike that contributed to the success of City’s title defense. Rodri is a talented midfielder, he is defensively minded, has accurate passes and is also a good scorer both from long range and short range. His classic contribution for the citizens landed him in the Ballon d’Or top 18 position.

17. Son Heung-min (Tottenham Hotspurs)

Previous Ranking: 18th

2021/22 stats: 30 goals, 10 assists

ballon dor 2022 son

Son is in top form this season as he is actively involved in the race for the Premier League Golden Boot. The South Korean was forced to share the Golden Boot with Mohamed Salah, but his total of 23 goals without a penalty is worthy of accolades. With their qualification to Champions League next season, it is possible that the South Korean may be turning his football career in the nearest future.

16. Virgil Van Dijk (Liverpool)

Previous Ranking: 15th

2021/22 Stats: 4 goals, 2 assists, 32 Clean sheets, Won FA Cup, Carabao Cup and FA Community Shield.

ballon dor 2022 vvd

Virgil Van Dijk’s performance for Liverpool is superb and worthy of special recognition. The Dutch captain has maintained a total of 32 clean sheets with two games left to the end of the English Premier League. However, the center-back suffered muscle tightness on Saturday in their FA cup final tie against Chelsea at Wembley. Jurgen Klopp’s side was lucky to have him fit for the Champions League final fixture against Real Madrid in Paris but his effort was not enough to secure the European trophy for the Reds.

15. Thiago Alcantara (Liverpool)

 Previous Ranking: 12th

2021/22 Stats: Two goals, five assists. Won FA Cup, Carabao Cup and FA Community Shield.

ballon d'or 2022 thiago

Since he arrived at Anfield, Thiago has rekindled the fire in his dying football career. The Spanish midfielder is such a relief for Jurgen Klopp in the Midfield. His outright complete passes cannot be overemphasized. And with two trophies already won, the midfielder is in the top 15 of the 2022 Ballon d’Or contenders. He managed to be fit for the Champions League final in Paris but was not up to par like the usual Thiago Alcantara performance we had expected.

14. Luis Diaz (Liverpool)

Previous Ranking: 13th

2021/22 Stats: 23 goals, 10 assists, won FA Cup, Carabao Cup and FA Community Shield.

ballon dor 2022 diaz

Since joining Liverpool FC from FC Porto in January, Luis Diaz has been superb. The Colombian winger is worthy of Ballon d’Or top 20 contestant role judging from his performance for both clubs so far this season. Recently, his assist for the winning goal for Liverpool against Aston Villa and a 100 percent display in the FA cup final against Chelsea that earned him the Man of the Match title summed up his wonderful performance for the Merseyside club.

One could have thought that he win overpower Real Madrid full-back Dani Carvajal in the Champions League final but the Madrid defender stepped up enough to contain the Colombian and later saw him being substituted in the second half of the game.

13. Christopher Nkunku (RB Leipzig)

Previous Ranking: 16th

2021/22 Stats: 35 goals, 22 assists. Won DFB-Pokal.

ballon dor 2022 nkunku

Although Christopher Nkunku will not be seen in the Europa League final after RB Leipzig failed to qualify for the final stage of the competition. Leipzig were 1-0 winners of the first leg of the semi-final tie against Rangers before they lost 3-1 to Rangers who qualified on 3-2 aggregate.

However, the French international add four goals to his tally in the past seven days and is also hopeful of winning the DFB-Pokal Cup and possibly the 2022 Ballon d’Or title. The free-scoring player failed to record his name on the scoresheet in the final day game of the German Bundesliga but was named the Bundesliga Player of the season due to his outstanding performance all through the Bundesliga season. Nkunku was on the score sheet in their DFB-Pokal final triumph and had one of the most splendid individual season.

12. Bernardo Silva (Manchester City)

Previous Ranking: 11th

2021/22 Stats: 13 goals, 13 assists. Won the Premier League Title.

ballon dor 2022 silva

Bernardo is a sweet old wine that the lovers of football cannot just let go of. The Spanish midfielder has had a superb season at Etihad and is hoping to lift the English Premier League title as compensation for the hard work. He was superb in the final day fixture against Aston villa and was understanding enough to made way for IIkay Gundogan was came in his stead and turned the game around scoring two goals in 3 minutes.

11. Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool)

Previous Ranking: 10th

2021/22 Stats: Two goals, 22 Assists, 24 clean sheets. Won FA Cup, Carabao Cup and FA Community Shield.

Arnold has been superb as usual and has further increased his defending capabilities as evident in the FA cup final against Chelsea. The 23-year-old -has won all four top-level trophies including all domestic titles in England. These achievements and performance this season have earned him a place in the top 10 2022 Ballon d’Or contenders. The young lad put up a good form all through the season and was notable in the Champions League final at Paris but his failure to track Vinicius Junior’s run that led to the only goal of the game cannot be forgotten.

10. Phil Foden (Manchester City)

Previous Ranking: 9th

2021/22 Stats: 14 goals, 15 assists. Won the Premier League title.

Foden has been effective and productive for the Citizens so far this season. The England international has scored 14 and set up 15 goals despite not seeing enough playtime at City. The 22-year-old already has four Premier League titles and is currently on his way to becoming one of the youngest most decorated English player.

9. Thibaut Courtois (Real Madrid)

Previous Ranking: 14th

2021/22 Stats: 23 clean sheets, won the UEFA Champions League, La Liga title, Supercopa de Espana and UEFA Super Cup.

ballon dor 2022 courtois

The Real Madrid goalkeeper was not left out in the race for the 2022 Ballon d’Or title. The former Chelsea keeper has been in fine form this season and has helped Madrid to secure three titles this season. Courtois outstanding display in the Champions League final was enough to earned him the Man-of-the-match award. He is currently the best goalkeeper in the world and he keeps getting better.

His stunning saves of Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane’s attempts was the center of attraction the the game in Paris. The Belgian goalkeeper has been a savior for the Los Blancos all through the campaign and later got rewarded with the title.

7. Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City)

Previous Ranking: 6th

2021/22 Stats: 21 goals, 18 assists. Won Premier League title.

Kevin De Bruyne has been superb since his return from injury early this year. The City’s midfielder has contributed immensely to the epileptic attacking force of the Citizens. His recent four-goal howl against wolves is magnificent. Winning the English Premier League title was a reward for such hard work by the Belgian and his tireless teammates.

8. Luka Modric (Real Madrid)

Previous Ranking: 9th

2021/22 Stats: 7 goals, 14 assists. Won the UEFA Champions League, La Liga title, Supercopa de Espana and UEFA Super Cup.

ballon dor modric

Luka Modric is yet another football old wine that football lovers are not ready to let go of any time soon. The 36-year-old Croatian made an audacious ageless pass that led to Rodrygo’s goal against Chelsea in the Champions League. Two weeks ago the magician also had a hat-trick of assists against Levante to add to his overall performance this season.

In the Champions League final against Real Madrid, he was once again fantastic in the midfield. Modric was the 2018 Ballon d’Or winner and at 36 he still deliver excellently enough to earn a place in top 10 spots of the 2022 Ballon d’Or ranking.

6. Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid)

Previous Ranking: 7th

2021/22 Stats: 22 goals, 19 assists. Won the UEFA Champions League, La Liga, Supercopa de Espana and UEFA Super Cup.

ballon dor 2022 vini

Vinicius Jnr, a right partner to Kareem Benzema has been pulling the right strings when necessary. The Brazillian scored the only goal that earned Real Madrid the Champions League title in Paris. Vinicius’ second-half goal handed the Los Blancos their 14th Champions League title. The Los Blancos winger scored his first hat-trick for Real Madrid when they trashed Levante 6-0.

5. Kylian Mbappe (Paris Saint-Gemain)

Previous Ranking: 5th

2021/22 Stats: 49 goals, 31 assists. Won Ligue 1, Uefa Nations League and Trophees des Champions.

ballon dor 2022 mbappe

Kylian Mbappe is enjoying a perfect football career in France after winning the Ligue 1 Player of the Year award for the third consecutive time. The PSG star wade off keen interest from Spanish giants Real Madrid to renew his contract with PSG that will see him remain in France until 2025.

Mbappe will be a strong contender of the Ballon d’Or title come 2023 if his team put up a good performance at the Champions League campaign and the World Cup Tournament in Qatar.

4. Robert Lewandowski (Bayern Munich)

Previous Ranking: 4th

2021/22 Stats: 57 goals, 12 assists. Won the Bundesliga and DFL-Supercup.

ballon dor 2022 lewandowski

The free-scoring Lewandowski made it to the top 4 contenders of the 2022 Ballon d’Or. He scored his 50th club goal for the season in the final game last weekend. However, the Bayern attacker is keen on leaving the club at the end of the season as he bade the club’s fans farewell in his last game for Bayern. Rumors has it that the striker in talks with Spanish giants Barcelona but the deal is yet to be finalized.

3. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)

Previous Ranking: 3rd

2021/22 Stats: 33 goals, 19 assists. Won FA Cup, Carabao Cup and FA Community Shield.

The Egyptian is currently the top scorer in the English Premier League with two games left to play. Salah has been magnificent for Jurgen Klopp’s side raking in a total of 39 goals and 19 assists. However, Salah was confirmed to be injured in the FA Cup final against Chelsea when he was substituted in the 32nd minute of the game.

The Liverpool star put up a stunning display in the final game of the Champions League campaign against Real Madrid but the Los Blancos goalkeeper ensured the Egyptian got heartbroken at the end of 90 minutes.

2. Sadio Mane (Liverpool)

Previous Ranking: 2nd

2021/22 Stats: 33 goals, 5 assists. Won Africa Cup of Nations, FA Cup, Carabao Cup and FA Community Shield.

ballon dor 2022 mane

Mane missed a penalty in the FA cup final at Wembley but was fortunate enough as Liverpool went ahead to win the trophy. Although the French Football has stressed that the number of trophies won should not be the major consideration when voting for a Ballon d’Or winner but the number of trophies the Senegalese is amassing is worthy of recognition. The Senegal international has only Karim Benzema on his way to winning the 2022 Ballon d’Or title.

The Senegalese almost had the opening goal in the Champions League final but was denied by the finger tips of Thibaut Courtois. Despite the disappointing finals, Mane will be recognized for the series of trophies he had won this season. Unfortunately, it seems we will have to wait for another years to hope for the rise of another African World best since George Weah last won it in 1995.

1. Karim Benzema (Real Madrid)

Previous Ranking: 1st

2021/22 Stats: 47 goals, 15 assists. Won the UEFA Champions League, La Liga, UEFA Nations League, Supercopa de Espana and UEFA Super Cup.

ballon dor 2022 benzema

Benzema has been a ‘savior’ for the Los Blancos side as he constantly appeared right on time to salvage the club, especially in the Champions League. His effort was evident in the Quarterfinal display against Chelsea and the semi-final against Manchester City. If he possibly put up the same kind of effort in the final stage of the competition, we might be saying Hello to the latest world best.

His presence in biggest moments is commendable, coupled with series of top-level performances for Real Madrid all through the season. The French man has ticked every box that serves as a criteria for him to win the Ballon d’Or award.

Ballon d’Or 2022 Date and Venue

The Ballon d’Or 2022 award date is a bit different than usual. The date for the announcement of the individual title usually takes place in December, whereas that of this year will take place some months earlier.

The ‘France Football’ has announced when the Ballon d’Or will be awarded to the deserved player in 2022. This year’s edition is going to be a special one, as it will be the first Ballon d’Or after the change of dates for the award.

The French magazine has published that the French Football have decided that from this edition onwards, to award the Ballon d’Or seasonally, and not according to a calendar year as it has been in the previous years. Therefore, the 2022/23 World Cup performance will not be included.

When is the Ballon d’Or 2022 gala?

It is now official that the Ballon d’Or 2022 gala will take place on Monday, 17th October, 2022. That is  two months earlier than the usual date. The Ballon d’Or gala used to take place in December every year, that has changed now starting from 2022 Ballon d’Or.

Where is the Ballon d’Or 2022 gala?

The French Football have also confirmed that the Ballon d’Or 2022 gala will be held at the Théâtre Châtelet in Paris, France. It is the same venue where all other previous editions of the Ballon d’Or have been taken place, and this year’s edition will follow suit in the same venue.

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Champions League

Chelsea Predicted Lineup vs AC Milan – Champions League Oct. 11

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chelsea predicted lineup

We bring you a detailed analysis of Chelsea predicted lineup vs AC Milan ahead of the second leg of their Champions League Group stage fixtures.

Less than seven days ago, we see the Blues triumph over AC Milan 3-0 to restore their hope of qualifying for the knockout stage of the Champions League tournament. Graham Potter’s side will hope to pick at least a point when they travel to San Siro for the return leg of the Group stage matches.

The victory again Milan lift them to second place on second place on the Group E table from the bottom spot. The blues can be said to be picking form recently as they went ahead to defeat Wolve 3-0 in the Premier League fixture last weekend.

Though they currently sit 2nd, their hope of pulling through to the knockout stage is still blurry and they need to work harder to qualify from the group.

Graham Potter’s men are being faced with a couple of injury worries, however, this is how the team could line up against AC Milan.


Chelsea Predicted Lineup vs AC Milan (3-4-2-1)

Gallagher shining under Potter / David Jonah/GettyImages

GK: Kepa Arrizabalaga – Kepa has been superb in the absence of first-choice Goalkeeper Eduard Mendy following his three clean sheets in the last three fixtures. Despite gaining the favour of Boss Graham Potter, the Spaniard must work harder to contend for the first XI spot.


CB: Trevoh Chalobah – He has recovered his place in the starting lineup following the injury of Wesley Fofana. It can be recalled that Fofana picked up a knee injury last week and will miss a couple of games. Chalobah has never lost a game that he starts.

CB: Thiago Silva – The center-back was excellent in their match against Milan but was rested against Wolves over the weekend. He will be available for the match at San Siro.

CB: Marc Cucurella – Cucurella also did exceptionally well against Wolves. However, he must keep up to contain a team like AC Milan at San Siro.

RM: Reece James – Although Cesar Aziplicueta did well against Wolves, he needs to pave way for the ace defender. I guess I’m speaking the minds of many Chelsea fans.

CM: Conor Gallagher – Gallagher is yet another player that made an excellent outing against Wolves. He is becoming better and better every day under the tutelage of the new manager.

CM: Mateo Kovacic – Kovacic may be used ahead of Loftus-Cheek due to his vast experience compared to the latter. If Potter wants to start his best then we should see Kovacic in the starting lineup.

LM: Ben Chilwell – Chilwell was also rested against Wolves but should see his place in the first XI at San Siro.

AM: Mason Mount – He made two assists in the match against Wolves, a performance enough to find him a space in the starting lineup for the Blues.

AM: Raheem Sterling – He was given enough rest over the week and will definitely be available for the clash against AC Milan.

ST: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang – Kai Havertz took his place up front against Wolves at the weekend. Havertz did well to score but AC Milan is quite different, and considering what is at stake for both teams, his presence is inevitable.

LAST WEEK PREVIEWS

chelsea vs ac milan

Chelsea are set to welcome Italian giants AC Milan in their third Group E match of the 2022-23 Champions League at Stamford Bridge.

The English side will be hoping for a miracle as they host table topper AC Milan in what seems to be the cracker of Wednesday night.

Graham Potter‘s side are currently languishing at the bottom of the Group E table after picking just a point from their two opening matches in Group E. The Rossoneri currently sits at the top of the Group E table with 4 points and will be hoping to remain there after their trip to Stamford Bridge.


Match preview

Graham Potter got a slim 2-1 victory in his first game in charge of the Blues over the weekend, thanks to a stoppage-time strike by Conor Gallagher. Gallagher spent his loan spell at Crystal Palace last season and was right on time to hand them a defeat in front of their home fans.

Odsonne Edouard opened the score line seven minutes into the game before Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang‘s clinical finish put both teams leveled at Halftime. However, Substitute Conor Gallagher curled in a nice ball to seal the victory for the visitors.

Read also: Inter vs Barcelona Prediction, Team News, and Lineups

Potter has now started his managerial role in charge of Chelsea with a win at Crystal Palace but is yet to get a win in European competition with his new club. The former Brighten Boss managed a 1-1 draw against Red Bull Salzburg which was his first European game in charge of the club.

Since their 1-0 loss against Inter Milan in March 2010, the blues have not lost a game against any Italian team in the Champions League competition.

Stefano Pioli‘s side are battling with quite a number of injury worries as more of her players picked various degrees of injuries but the Scudetto holders did well to pick all three points against Empoli over the weekend as they continue their course to defend the Serie A title.

Rafael LeaoFode Ballo-Toure, and Ante Rebic all registered their names on the scoresheet as the Rossoneri humbled Empoli 3-1 in their last Serie A game last weekend. Rafael Leao who has been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge will be a focal point in the game on Wednesday night.

Pioli’s team drew with Salzburg in the opening Group E game and went ahead to beat Zagreb to take sit top of the Group E table. Although the Italian champions, just like Chelsea, have shown some flaws in their defense recently as they have conceded in their last six consecutive matches across all competitions.

Milan, though, has won their last eight away matches in a row and are hoping to break a European jinx on English soil, where they have triumphed only once with a 1-0 victory against Man United at Old Trafford in the 2005 Champions League campaign.

In their previous 19 travels to play English teams in European tournaments, the Rossoneri have only managed to draw seven matches and twelve losses. Furthermore, Milan have not played Chelsea FC since they last played in the 1999/2000 Champions League campaign where the match ended in a stalemate.

Chelsea’s Current form (In Champions League):

Chelsea form (In all competitions):

  • L
  • W
  • L

AC Milan form(In Champions League):

AC Milan form (all competitions):

  • D
  • W
  • W
  • L
  • W
  • W

Team News

Again Chelsea will be without first-choice goalkeeper Edouard Mendy (knee) and midfielder N’Golo Kante (thigh) due to injuries. However, Marc Cucurella and Carney Chukwuemeka are hopeful to make a return after they both missed the game at Crystal Palace due to illness.

Also missing in Chelsea squad will be Jorginho who joined the list of injured players after picking a knock at Selhurst Park on Saturday.

There is a possibility that Gallagher may feature in the first XI in place of the injured midfielder, while Thiago Silva may partner Wesley Fofana in the defensive midfield.

Though Chelsea has a quantum number of injured players, their predicaments are nowhere near that of Milan who has the likes of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Theo Hernandez, Mike Maignan, Junior Messias  Divock Origi, Junior Messias, and Alessandro Florenzi on their injured players list.

As if that wasn’t enough Pioli again saw Simon KjaerAlexis Saelemaekers and Davide Calabria joining their injury list as the players came off during their game against Empoli over the weekend.

Following the absence of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and new signing Divock Origi, Olivier Giroud may be the only hope in the attacking line for the visiting Milan side. Giroud have scored 39 goals in 119 appearances at Chelsea, and will be looking forward to hurt his former team in order to gain more relevance and Fikayo Tomori will also slug it out against his former teammates and employers.

Chelsea Predicted Lineup:

  • Kepa
  • James
  • Fofana
  • Silva
  • Chilwell
  • Mount
  • Kovacic
  • Gallagher
  • Havertz
  • Aubameyang
  • Sterling

AC Milan Predicted Lineup:

  • Tatarusanu
  • Dest
  • Kalulu
  • Tomori
  • Ballo-Toure
  • Tonali
  • Bennacer
  • Krunic
  • De Ketelaere
  • Leao
  • Giroud

AC Milan vs Chelsea Prediction

AC Milan’s series of injury worries will be a major blow for the Italian giants as they slug it out with Chelsea who are still struggling to pick form. This is one game no one can easily predict the outcome but we will give you tips that will help you earn from your stakes.

There won’t be lots of goals in the match at Stamford Bridge and as such it will be risky to predict it over 2.5. However, there may be more than a goal in the game.

Hence it will be safe to predict Chelsea win or draw, or Under 3.5 or over 1.5 but to pinpoint who to take all three points home is a mirage.

We tip the game to end in a draw, be it 0-0, 1-1, or 2-2. So if you are a gaga kind of punter, why not go for a full-time draw? Just asking anyways…

FT: AC Milan 2-1 Chelsea

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Champions League

Bayern Munich vs Viktoria Plzen – Best predictions, Tips, and Lineups

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bayern munich vs viktoria plzen prediction

Here we bring you all you need to know ahead of the Bayern Munich vs Viktoria Plzen clash at Allianz Arena.

bayern munich vs viktoria plzen

Group C table leader Bayern Munich are set to continue their 100% start to the 2022 Champions League campaign as they play Viktoria Plzen at Allianz Arena on Tuesday night in their third group stage fixtures.

Plzen are yet to pick a point since the commencement of the competition as they have lost both of their opening games to Inter and Barcelona respectively.

Michal Bilek‘s side though appeared to be the underdog will be positive hoping that the game goes in their favor on Tuesday.


Match preview

Bayern Munich are in fine form again this season, they are two points behind table toppers Union Berlin on the Bundesliga table, the German champions have done well to maintain a 100% record in their champions league campaign after winning their first two games against two tough sides in the Group.

The Los Blancos thrashed Bayern Leverkusen 4-0 in the Bundesliga fixture on Friday. Though their outing in the domestic league was not a smooth one they have so far managed to maintain the tide as they look promising to dethrone the current top two clubs.

Read more: Inter vs Barcelona – Preview, lineup, Team news and Predictions

One key player in the team is Leroy Sane, he was on the score sheet in their two fixtures against Inter Milan and Barcelona, and from the look of things, he may likely be on the score sheet again on Tuesday night as the winger can’t just stop scoring. The free-scoring Bayern side are yet to concede a goal since the commencement of the Champions League.

The Bavarians will be playing the Czech champions back-to-back in the competition with the hope of sealing their qualification to the next round of the competition. If this is done, they will do well to face their league’s games with little or no pressure from other competitions which becomes very necessary as all teams are gearing towards the World Cup which is set to commence next month.

Nagelsmann despite knowing the importance of these fixtures will also have his eyes on the forthcoming Bundesliga match against archrivals Borussia Dortmund, considering the fact that he will need to rest some of his key players in a bid to win in both domestic and champions league in the next few weeks.

Bayern Munich have no serious injury worries but for the incessant COVID cases among her first XI players. These will likely affect their preparations and performances in the forthcoming fixtures but they are hopeful of pulling through. Manuel Neuer and Leon Goretzka have both been tested positive and will not feature in any matches until full recovery while Thomas Muller and Joshua Kimmich also tested positive for the virus after their game against Bayer Leverkusen.

bayern munich vs viktoria plzen predictions

Viktoria Plzen have not lost any of their league game so far this season, but they were unfortunate to be drawn in the Group C of the 2022/23 Champions League competition alongside Bayern Munich, Inter Milan, and Barcelona. They have lost two of their Group C matches and will have the Bavarians to slug out against in their next two fixtures.

Plzen’s ace midfielder Jhon Mosquera, has been converted into the attacking line and has been very resourceful for the Czech club in European competition. The star player had scored 5 out of 6 appearances this season and will be the center of attraction for Plzen on Tuesday.

The Czech champions struggled through two rounds of Champions League qualification matches and a playoff to book their place in the 2022/23 Champions League, and have wished for better draws that will land them in the knockout stage or at least a place in the Europa League knockout, unfortunately, they got their worst nightmare.

Bayern will definitely be a hard nut to crack considering their current performance in the European competition.

Bayern Munich Champions League form:

Bayern Munich form (all competitions):

Viktoria Plzen Champions League form:

Viktoria Plzen form (all competitions):

  • W
  • L
  • W
  • L
  • W
  • D

Team News

Following the absence of Thomas Muller and Joshua Kimmich due to COVID cases, Bayern will be making just a handful of changes in the squad to play against Viktoria Plzen.

Marcel Sabitzer may feature in the midfield as evident in their last outing playing alongside Goretzka who made a return on Friday after treating COVID.

However the case may be, the Bayern team’s depth is good enough to provide an alternative to replace the injured players and those affected by COVID. New summer signing Mathys Tel is likely to replace Thomas Muller, else other possible options may include Sadio Mane, Leroy Sane, or  Jamal Musiala.

Three other players to miss the match due to injuries are Kingsley Coman Lucas Hernandez, and Bouna Sarr.

Missing among the Viktoria Plzen players is midfielder Pavel Bucha who was shown a red card in their last Champions League match against Inter Milan.

Bayern Munich Predicted Lineup:

  • Neuer
  • Davies
  • Upamecano
  • Ligt
  • Pavard
  • Goretzka
  • Sabitzer
  • Sane
  • Musiala
  • Mane
  • Tel

Viktoria Plzen Predicted Lineup:

  • Stanek
  • Jemelka
  • Hejda
  • Pernica
  • Havel
  • Cermak
  • Kalvach
  • Sykora
  • Vikanova
  • Chory
  • Mosquera

Bayern Munich vs Viktoria Plzen Predictions

The game is likely to be one-sided as Bayern Munich are expected to dominate the game. This is an easy game to predict but what will pose a problem is the odd attached to the punter’s selections.

It is easy to say Bayern will win the game and also there is a possibility of high goal margin in the game but it will however be risky to predict the game for both teams to score.

Although Plzen will be looking forward to secure their first point of the tournament but they can’t pose a threat to Bayern, the best they can do is to get a goal or two but not a victory.

FT: Bayern Munich 4-0 Viktoria Plzen

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Champions League

Inter vs Barcelona – Team news, Lineup, and Best Predictions

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inter vs barcelona

Here we bring you a detailed preview of the Inter vs Barcelona match scheduled for Tuesday night, October 4, 2022.

inter vs barcelona

Inter Milan are set to welcome FC Barcelona in their third Champions League fixture. Both teams have an average start to their Champions League campaign as they currently sit 2nd and 3rd on the Group C table level on points.

The two sides are both on 3 points each after securing one win and one loss each languishing behind table-toppers FC Bayern Munchen who won their two opening matches. The clash between the two European giants shall be taking place at San Siro on Tuesday night.

Inter Milan and Barcelona both occupy Group C alongside Bayern Munich and Viktoria Plzen, Both teams triumphed over Plzen before losing to the six-time Champions League winner Bayern Munich.

Inter have had a terrible start to the 2022/23 Serie A season, this is their worst start in 11 years as they currently sit 9th on the Serie A table after winning four and losing four of their 8 opening matches.

However, Barcelona are in good shape this season as they currently sit on the top of the la Liga table as they maintained 7 unbeaten runs to date.


Match preview

Inter Milan were again humiliated by Roma at the weekend when Roma came from one goal down to defeat the host 2-1 at San Siro. This is not the first time Inter are facing such humiliation this season, but what could have gone wrong?

Simone Inzaghi men did well to get the lead in the 30th minute when Frederico Dimarco gave the home team a lead but this was overturned and consequently led to a defeat at San Siro on Saturday afternoon.

The defeat by Roma was their first since 2017 and was enough to send them down the table with just four wins in eight matches. This is the worst start in their top-flight history.

The Nerazzurri are missing the presence of their key players Marcelo Brozovic and Romelu Lukaku who have been out due to injuries, Inzaghi who has been their saving grace is gradually drifting apart as he is in dire need of support.

Inter also started their Champions League campaign with a 2-0 loss to German champions Bayern Munich in Group C which is one of the most competitive groups in the tournament this season. However, they did well to bounce back as they defeated Czech champions Viktoria Plzen with the same goal margin, thanks to goals from Edin Dzeko and Denzel Dumfries.

Before their defeat by Roma last weekend, Inter has never joked with their home games at San Siro recently as they had won their previous 7 games at San Siro in the Serie A four of which were clean sheets.

The Nerazzurri have not had it easy against the Spanish side in recent times, as they have managed only one win in their last 5 meetings at San Siro. If they must win the match on Tuesday night, then they have quite a lot to do in order to stop the free-scoring Barcelona team.

No doubt, Bayern Munich are likely to rain fire and Brimstone on Viktoria Plzen hence the need for a win at San Siro.

Barcelona who suffered a terrible outing in the Champions League last season was not able to make it to the knockout stage of the competition after they finished 3rd in the group behind Bayern Munich and Benfica who proceeded to round 16.

Barcelona’s team has been rejuvenated and will definitely not wish to have a taste of the same predicament that befell them last season and as such will put in all their best to ensure a win at San Siro.

Barcelona has not lifted the Champions League trophy since 2015 and will be looking to do so under the new Xavi regime and from the look of things, the Spanish side is among the favorite to head to Istanbul for the finals.

During the Summer Transfer window, the Catalan giants did well to land a number of quality players whose input has been evident since the commencement of the season. noticeable among them is the arrival of prolific striker Robert Lewandowski, he has currently netted 9 goals for Barcelona in the La Liga as he tops the highest goal scorer chart.

Barcelona are now sitting on top of the La Liga table with 19 points same as Real Madrid after both teams maintained 6 wins and 1 draw in their opening 7 matches.

Barcelona thrashed Viktoria Plzen 5-1 in their opening Group C fixture before losing to Bayern 2-0 in their second match. The defeat at Allianz Arena marks Barca’s fifth in their previous 9 group stage matches.

Inter Milan Champions League form:

Inter Milan form (all competitions):

Barcelona Champions League form:

Barcelona form (all competitions):


Team News

Inter has been affected with quite a number of injuries which outrightly contributed to their epileptic performance this season. The Italian side will again miss key midfielder Marcelo Brozovic on Tuesday after he sustained a thigh injury while on international duty.

Aside from Brozovic, Inter will also be without loanee attacker Romelu Lukaku who has been ruled out with a thigh injury. Inter boss, Inzaghi will have to depend on Edin Dzeko and Joaquin Correa to connect with Lautaro Martinez in the attacking line as he is poised on playing his favorite 3-5-2 formation.

Hakan Calhanoglu return to the team is an added advantage for the Italian side, as he featured in last weekend’s game which saw his freekick hit the crossbar. He is definitely going to be part of the midfield on Tuesday. Fellow midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan will have to battle for a place in the midfield against Kristjan Asllani and Roberto Gagliardini to play alongside Nicolo Barella.

Samir Handanovic has not been in good form so far this season and there is a possibility that second-choice goalkeeper Andre Onana may be given an opportunity of keeping the post against FC Barcelona in the Champions League encounter.

If any club manager should be angry at the international break then it should be Xavi who lost a couple of players to injury while on international duties. The Spanish side will be traveling to San Siro without the likes of Memphis DepayFrenkie De Jong, and Jules Kounde, who sustained various degrees of injuries while on international duties last month.

Also missing from Xavi’s squad is Ronald Araujo who has undergone thigh surgery and is likely to return to the team next year. Hector Bellerin has also sustained a calf injury during training last week. Aside from these, every other player will be fit to play.

Inter Milan Predicted Lineup:

  • Handanovic
  • Skriniar
  • Acerbi
  • Bastoni
  • Dumfries
  • Barella
  • Asllani
  • Calhanoglu
  • Dimarco
  • Martinez
  • Dzeko

Barcelona Predicted Lineup:

  • Ter Stegen
  • Roberto
  • Christensen
  • Garcia
  • Alba
  • Kessie
  • Busquets
  • Pedri
  • Dembele
  • Lewandowski
  • Raphinha

Inter vs Barcelona Tickets

All lovers of football particularly fans of Champions League competition and fans of both teams who wish to acquire tickets to watch the match live at Milan can do so via any of the following links:

GET TICKET HERE>>

GET TICKET HERE>>

Inter vs Barcelona Predictions

The game between Inter Milan and Barcelona is indeed going to be a tough one to predict coupled with the fact that they are both champions in their respective leagues and are not strangers to the Champions League competition.

However, Inter has been poor defensively this season and may find it quite difficult against a free-scoring Barcelona side. It could have been easy to tip Barcelona to take home all three points but for the fact that Inter will be playing at home.

It will be safe to predict it over 1.5 or better still, Barcelona to win or draw and under 4.5 but if you are a risk taker our tipsters have predicted Barcelona as the winner of the match.

FT: Inter 1-3 Barcelona

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