Tag: Premier League

  • EPL to introduce  semi-automated offside technology for first time from Apr.12

    EPL to introduce  semi-automated offside technology for first time from Apr.12

     Semi-automated offside technology will be used for the first time in the Premier League later this month, the league body has  said , following successful testing in the FA Cup.

    The introduction follows non-live testing in the Premier League and live operation in the fifth round of the FA Cup last month, and is scheduled to be in use for matchday 32, which begins on April 12.

    Premier League clubs unanimously agreed to the implementation last year, and the technology had been expected to be in use by December but met with problems in testing.

    Currently, VAR officials check offsides but this has faced heavy criticism for the amount of time taken to come to a decision while also leaving fans in the stadium in the dark with no replays.

    Read Also: Athletes, officials laud NDSF Accreditation Process

    “Semi-automated offside technology automates key elements of the offside decision-making process to support the video assistant referee (VAR),” the league said in a statement.

    “It provides more efficient placement of the virtual offside line, using optical player tracking, and generates virtual graphics to ensure an enhanced in-stadium and broadcast experience for fans.”

    The Premier League also said that it maintains the integrity of the process while enhancing the speed, efficiency, and consistency of offside decision-making.

    The technology was used in the 2022 World Cup and the Champions League, and also at the last year’s Asian Cup.

  • Five top EPL transfers in January 2025

    Five top EPL transfers in January 2025

    The January transfer window never fails to deliver drama. Whether it’s an unexpected signing or a last-minute deal, Premier League clubs rush to bolster their squads in pursuit of success. 

    This year was no exception, with several high-profile moves shaking up team lineups. Keeping up with these transfers can be just as exciting as the matches themselves—especially when following the action on Betway mobile, where every new signing can influence the odds in surprising ways. 

    Here’s a breakdown of the most significant transfers from this window, ranked from the most affordable to the most expensive.

    1.       Donyell Malen to Aston Villa – £20 million 

    Aston Villa secured a shrewd acquisition by landing Donyell Malen from Borussia Dortmund for £20 million. The Dutch forward brings blistering pace, agility, and a keen eye for goal—qualities that will add a new dimension to Villa’s attack. His Bundesliga stint highlighted his ability to stretch defenses and exploit spaces, making him an ideal fit for Unai Emery’s fluid, attacking system. 

    In today’s inflated transfer market, £20 million represents a bargain, underscoring Villa’s sharp scouting and negotiation. Malen’s versatility allows him to operate across the front line, giving Emery valuable tactical flexibility. Expect him to be a constant menace for Premier League defenders.

    2.       Patrick Dorgu to Manchester United – £25 Million 

    Manchester United bolstered their defense with the signing of Patrick Dorgu from Lecce for £25 million. The Danish left-back, just 20 years old, has already impressed with his composure at the back and his ability to drive forward with purpose. Given United’s struggles in defense this season, Dorgu’s pace, energy, and attacking intent make him a valuable addition. 

    More than just a solid defender, Dorgu brings an offensive edge with his overlapping runs and pinpoint crosses—qualities that have been missing from United’s flanks. Young, ambitious, and eager to prove himself, he’s ready to embrace the challenge of playing on one of football’s biggest stages.

    3.       Vitor Reis to Manchester City – £29.6 Million 

    Manchester City continues its tradition of snapping up elite young talent, with Vitor Reis being their latest prospect. The highly rated center-back joins from Palmeiras for £29.6 million, bringing composure under pressure and sharp tactical awareness to City’s defensive setup. 

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    With injuries occasionally exposing City’s backline, Reis provides valuable depth while fitting seamlessly into Guardiola’s possession-based system. His ability to read the game and distribute the ball with precision makes him a natural fit for City’s style. While he may not be a regular starter immediately, don’t be surprised if he forces his way into the lineup before long.

    4.       Nico González to Manchester City – £50 Million 

    Manchester City wasn’t done strengthening their squad, splashing £50 million to secure Nico González from Porto—another statement signing for their already world-class midfield. The talented midfielder is renowned for his vision, precision, and tactical intelligence, making him a seamless fit for Guardiola’s system. 

    What sets González apart is his versatility. He can dictate the tempo, unlock defenses with pinpoint passing, and provide defensive stability when required. In a squad brimming with talent, he offers a unique blend of creativity and resilience. His arrival will give Guardiola more flexibility in squad rotation, ensuring City stays sharp during the crucial phases of the season.

    5.       Omar Marmoush to Manchester City – £59 Million 

    Leading City’s January signings is Omar Marmoush, who arrives from Eintracht Frankfurt for a hefty £59 million. The Egyptian forward brings electrifying pace, technical brilliance, and a proven ability to deliver in crucial moments—qualities that make him a nightmare for defenders. 

    Marmoush’s versatility across the front line aligns perfectly with Guardiola’s dynamic attacking philosophy. His knack for drifting between defenders, exploiting spaces, and finishing with precision adds yet another layer of firepower to City’s already lethal attack. The price tag is significant, but City knows exactly what they’re getting—a game-changer ready to make an impact.

  • Things to know as City take on league leaders Liverpool 

    Things to know as City take on league leaders Liverpool 

    Pep Guardiola’s side faces their old rivals in a crucial showdown for both teams.

    Manchester City, currently fourth in the table, will be eager to solidify their position in the Champions League spots. While their title hopes are fading, they will be keen to disrupt their opponent’s ambitions on Sunday.

    City heads into the clash on the back of a dominant 4-0 victory over Newcastle last weekend but will be looking to bounce back from their midweek European exit against Real Madrid.

    Football fans can expect high-stakes action, with Egyptian stars Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush set to feature in the contest.

    Here are few things to know ahead of the contest 

    1. Manchester City have lost just one of their last 15 Premier League home games against Liverpool (W8 D6), going down 4-1 in November 2015 under Manuel Pellegrini.

    2. Following their 2-0 win at Anfield in December, Liverpool are looking to complete the Premier League double over Manchester City for just the third time (also 2005-06 and 2015-16).

    3. Liverpool have achieved the Premier League double over the reigning champions six times previously, more than any other side in the competition’s history (vs Blackburn in 1995-96, Man Utd in 2000-01, 2001-02, 2008-09 and 2013-14, and Chelsea in 2010-11).

    4. Since Christmas, only Liverpool and Arsenal have won more points in the Premier League than Manchester City (17 – W5 D2 L1). In their eight games beforehand, City picked up only four points (W1 D1 L6).

    Read Also: FULL LIST: UCL: Madrid face Atlético, PSG host Liverpool, other last 16 draw

    5. Liverpool are unbeaten in each of their last 13 Premier League games played on a Sunday (W11 D2) while scoring multiple goals in each of those matches, since a 1-0 home defeat to Crystal Palace in April 2024.

    Manchester City vs Liverpool – Predicted lineup and team news

    Manchester City Predicted Lineup

    Man City predicted XI: Ederson; Nunes, Dias, Ake, Gvardiol; Nico, Kovacic, Silva; Foden, Marmoush, Haaland.

    Liverpool predicted XI: Alisson: Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, Diaz; Jota

    When is Manchester City vs Liverpool?

    KO: 5:30pm 

    Venue: Etihad Stadium

    Bet Predictions 

    Over 1.5 goals 

  • ‘We are far away from winning Premier League’ – Guardiola

    ‘We are far away from winning Premier League’ – Guardiola

    Pep Guardiola says Manchester City “need help” during the January transfer window after admitting his side have “no chance” of winning the Premier League title this season.

    The City boss celebrated 500 games in charge of the club with a nervy 2-0 win over Leicester on Sunday.

    City’s victory – just their second in their last 10 Premier League games – lifts them up to fifth, but they are 14 points behind leaders Liverpool.

    “We are far away from winning the Premier League,” Guardiola told BBC’s Match of the Day.

    “We accept there’s already no chance of that but we have other things to fight for: FA Cup, top four… and winning games helps.”

    City have won six of the last seven Premier League titles, but before the win over Leicester, the club had won just one of their previous 13 league games – losing nine.

    Read Also: Guardiola excited for winning  crucial  500th  game

    Guardiola admitted he was relieved to end a five-game winless run.

    “Just relief, that is the word to express how all of us feel,” he said.

    “We have done incredible things and now we struggle to win games so now it’s just relief.”

    BBC

  • JUST IN: Premier League announces 2025/26 season dates, introduces player-friendly schedule

    JUST IN: Premier League announces 2025/26 season dates, introduces player-friendly schedule

    The English Premier League has confirmed the dates for the 2025/26 season, set to kick off on Saturday, August 16, 2025, and conclude on Sunday, May 24, 2026. 

    In a significant move to address player welfare, the league has introduced changes to the festive period schedule. For the first time, no two match rounds will occur within 60 hours of each other during the holiday fixtures. This adjustment aims to ease the physical demands on players, a long-standing concern during the hectic Christmas period. 

    Additionally, there will be no matches scheduled on Christmas Eve in 2025, a decision expected to be warmly received by players and fans alike. 

    The Premier League shared these updates in a statement titled “Dates for 2025/26 Premier League Season Confirmed” on its official website, emphasizing its commitment to balancing competitive intensity with player well-being. 

    The statement read: “The schedule continues to allow more rest time for players over the festive match-round period, with no two rounds taking place within 60 hours of each other. This is in keeping with commitments made to clubs to address the congested Christmas and New Year schedule.”

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    The statement further explained that the adjustments reflect the Premier League’s dedication to maintaining its competitive edge while safeguarding player well-being.

    Key details of the schedule include 33 weekends and five midweek match rounds. The league noted, “The start date of August 16 allows for the maximum player rest time available—83 clear days—from the end of the 2024/25 season. The season end date of May 24, 2026, ensures the Premier League season finishes ahead of the FIFA 2026 World Cup call-up period. There will be no fixture on December 24, 2025.”

    Fans can look forward to an action-packed season spanning nine months. 

  • Premier League clubs vying for Victor Boniface’s signature in January

    Premier League clubs vying for Victor Boniface’s signature in January

    The English Premier League has had its fair share of star African strikers and there could be another addition if multiple clubs have their way in the January transfer window. 23-year-old Nigerian international, Victor Boniface, has been a revelation for German champions, Bayer Leverkusen.

    Since joining from Belgian club, Union Saint-Gilloise, in 2023, Boniface has scored 18 goals in 29 appearances. He played a key role in Leverkusen’s 2023/24 Bundesliga-winning campaign, during which they completed the entire season without losing a single game.

    After succeeding in the Norwegian Eliteserien with Bodo/Glimt, the Belgian Pro League with Union SG, and now the German Bundesliga, the elite level of the English Premier League is beckoning Boniface. However, his market value is rising by the week.

    Which Premier League clubs are said to be mulling a move for Boniface in the New Year?

    There are multiple clubs reportedly competing for Boniface’s signature. Manchester United are said to be pushing towards the front of the queue for Boniface. United are still searching for the right formula in the final third, with Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee still not appearing to complete the Red Devils’ goal scoring jigsaw puzzle.

    Boniface is a different type of striker to both Hojlund and Zirkzee, both of whom are in the target man mould. Boniface is someone who is prepared to play on the shoulder of the last defender and work the channels too. He’s been a sensation for Leverkusen and would be the ideal option for any high-pressing side and system in the Premier League.

    Chelsea are also said to be lurking, although the Blues are linked with almost every top player in European football due to their incessant spending in the last 18 months.

    It’s difficult to see Chelsea needing another centre forward when you consider they already have the likes of Jackson and Nkunku in their ranks. Manchester United will have a much greater need, especially after their worst start to a season in Premier League history. The Red Devils have drifted out to 8/1 to clinch a top-four finish with Betano, one of the most reputable soccer betting sites in Nigeria, which could deter Boniface from putting pen to paper as Champions League football will be high on his priority list.

    The problem for most other top European clubs is that Bayer Leverkusen have recently slapped an €80 million price tag on Boniface’s head. This will deter most clubs, apart from the Premier League Elite, PSG, and potentially La Liga’s two giants, Real Madrid and Barcelona.

    Read Also: Premier League clubs vote in favour of keeping VAR

    Interestingly, Boniface has publicly confessed his preference of Spanish football over English football on multiple occasions in recent years. The issue for Boniface being that Barça are still anything but cash rich and, with Robert Lewandowski still leading the line, he’d be surplus to requirements. Similarly at Real Madrid, the likes of Vinicius Jr. and Kylian Mbappe would surely get the nod over the Nigerian, despite his undisputed class.

    Subsequently, the Premier League feels like the only realistic move he can make right now. It would be interesting to see if Pep Guardiola and Manchester City showed any interest. City have precious little backup for star striker, Erling Haaland, with Boniface a powerful potential deputy.

    Either way, Boniface has started the 2024/25 Bundesliga season where he left off in 2023/24, plundering four goals in his first six appearances this season. That’s despite Leverkusen suffering defeat on the opening day of the campaign. In fact, since then, Leverkusen have been the second top scorers in the league, thanks largely to Boniface’s contributions.

    Boniface is contracted with Leverkusen until the summer of 2028, so the German champions are currently holding all of the aces regarding his future. With no release clause in the public domain or being leaked by agents, a club will need to stump up serious cash to snare him from Leverkusen’s clutches mid-season.

  • Arsenal star Saka injured during England loss to Greece

    Arsenal star Saka injured during England loss to Greece

    Bukayo Saka suffered an injury to his right leg during England’s 2-1 loss to Greece at Wembley on Thursday.

    The Arsenal forward was replaced in the 51st minute by Chelsea winger Noni Madueke.

    Saka, 23, was seen stretching and holding the back of his right leg before eventually sitting on the turf after Greece opened the scoring through Vangelis Pavlidis.

    England interim head coach Lee Carsley said: “He’s being assessed. Obviously in the build-up to the first goal, you can see he felt something in his leg.”

    Read Also: Stunning Saka at heart of comeback win for Arsenal

    The Three Lions were without injured duo Harry Kane and Jack Grealish for the defeat but both are expected to be fit for Sunday’s trip to Finland.

    Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal side are already without captain Martin Odegaard, who suffered an ankle injury while playing for Norway in September.

    The Gunners return to Premier League action on 19 October when they take on Bournemouth at Vitality Stadium.

    Arsenal are still waiting to discover how bad the injury is that forced Bukayo Saka out of England’s disappointing Nations League defeat to Greece.

  • Premier League Predictions 2024/25: Who Will Be The Winner?

    Premier League Predictions 2024/25: Who Will Be The Winner?

    The Premier League is back, and a new season of intense competition and thrilling football comes with it. As fans eagerly anticipate the kick-off, one of the most commonly asked questions is: Who will lift the coveted Premier League trophy this year? Let’s dive into the predictions for the 2024/25 season.

    Manchester City

    Manchester City has been the dominant force in English football for several seasons so far, and there is no reason to believe that will change anytime soon. According to the odds at link W88, Pep Guardiola’s side is once again the favorites. Their consistent performances, along with their ability to grind out results in crucial moments, make them a formidable opponent.

    The Citizens’ recent history speaks for itself. They have won the Premier League four times in a row, a feat that has never been achieved before in the Premier League era. Their experience and capability to handle the pressure of a title race sets them apart from their rivals.

    Arsenal

    If there is a team that can challenge Manchester City for the title, it is Arsenal. The Gunners are seen as the closest challengers to the reigning champions. Under Mikel Arteta, Arsenal has transformed into a well-organized and attacking team capable of competing with the best in the league.

    In recent seasons, Arsenal have finished as runners-up in the Premier League, narrowly missing out on the title. Their fans will be hoping that this is the year they finally break their long wait for a Premier League trophy. The Gunners have a solid foundation, but they will need to strengthen their squad in the transfer market to compete with City’s depth.

    Liverpool

    Liverpool, under the guidance of Jurgen Klopp, have been a perennial contender in the Premier League. However, with Klopp’s departure, the Reds will be starting a new chapter under Arne Slot. The Dutchman faces a daunting task in trying to maintain Liverpool’s high standards.

    Liverpool’s fans will be hoping that Slot can quickly settle into life at Anfield and build a team capable of challenging for honors. The Reds have a loyal fanbase and a rich history, but they must adapt to a new style of play under their new manager.

    Other potential football clubs

    While Manchester City, Arsenal, and Liverpool are the clear favorites, other teams could surprise us and make a significant impact on the Premier League table.

    Manchester United is always a force to be reckoned with, especially under a new manager like Erik ten Hag. With a talented squad and significant financial backing, the Red Devils could be poised for a resurgence. Chelsea and Tottenham are also expected to be in the mix for the top four. Both clubs have undergone significant changes lately and will seek to establish themselves as consistent top-flight contenders.

    Newcastle United have emerged as a dark horse in recent seasons. Backed by wealthy owners and with a talented squad, the Magpies could be a surprise package. Aston Villa and Brighton & Hove Albion are also teams to put trust in. Both clubs have shown progress in recent years and have the potential to challenge for European places.

    Do not forget about the smaller clubs. Clubs such as Leicester City and West Ham United have shown in the past that they can punch above their weight and achieve great things. A solid start to the season and a bit of luck could see them challenge for a European spot.

    It is important to remember that the Premier League is highly competitive. Any team can beat any other team on their day. With the introduction of new managers, the transfer market, and the ever-changing dynamics of football, it is difficult to predict exactly how the table will shape up.

    Therefore, although Man City, Arsenal, and Liverpool are the favorites, the Premier League is full of surprises. It is this unpredictability that makes the league so exciting to keep track of.

    Conclusion

    As of now, the Premier League is shaping up to be another exciting season. While Manchester City are the favorites, Arsenal and Liverpool will be eager to challenge them for the title. With so much talent on display, fans are in for a treat.

  • MTN, Devon Kings boost 5Stars Premier League tourney

    MTN, Devon Kings boost 5Stars Premier League tourney

    With Wireless FC emerging as the champion of the Abuja region in the 5Stars Premier Football League, the excitement now shifts to Lagos where  16 clubs will battle spots in the national finals.

    As anticipation builds for the Lagos zone kick-off, Managing Director of the 5Stars Premier League Olumide Aturu, has enthused  that  this year’s edition of the tournament is set to surpass previous years, adding more partners  are coming on board to elevate the competition.

     “We’re thrilled to announce that MTN Nigeria and Devon Kings are now partnering with us for the Lagos zone of the league. This partnership marks a significant milestone in our quest to make the 5Stars Premier Football League not only the best in Nigeria but also one of the top leagues globally,” Aturu remarked.

    Read Also: Three Nigerians Set to Light Up the 2024/25 Premier League Season

    He further  expressed  appreciation  for dedication shown by the participating clubs. “The enthusiasm from the teams has fuelled our determination to go above and beyond, ensuring that this edition of the league is truly exceptional.”

    In addition to the thrilling football action, the Lagos event will also feature a fusion of music and sports, where Goya Menor also attended the opening event. This initiative aims to attract even more spectators and infuse vibrant energy into the competition.

    The Lagos zone matches will take place between 24th  August  and  5th  October, with the national finals scheduled to hold  on  October 12th in Abuja.

  • EPL: Newly promoted sides off to rough start

    EPL: Newly promoted sides off to rough start

    Last season saw three teams relegated from the premier league and with that, a new set of teams have risen from the championship, Namely Ipswich Town, Southampton FC, and Former league champions Leicester City.

    Among the bunch, Ipswich Town became only the fifth team in history to secure back-to-back promotions from the third tier of English football to the Premier League.

    They started the first match of the 24/25 season against league giants Liverpool who dominated the match with a resounding 2-goal victory.

    Ipswich looked promising in the first half as they had 2 shots on target, but they struggled to put one In the net as their chances were denied by Allison who looked to maintain a clean sheet throughout the match.

    However, in the second half, they were starved for chances as Liverpool came alive with Diogo Jota kicking of the Goal scoring in the 60th minute and Mohammed Salah putting the icing on the cake shortly after.

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    Their next game seems to be an uphill climb, as Ipswich will travel to Manchester to face the reigning champions.

    Southampton secured promotion back to the top flight through the play-off final which saw them edge out Leeds United in a 1-0 victory at Wembley.

    After just one season in the championship, The Saints were unlucky, to say the least as their efforts against Newcastle were written off by an error from their goalkeeper, which led to the only goal of the game.

    The match was tight-knit as both teams maintained a high press despite Newcastle being a man down due to an unpredictable red card. Southampton will look to relish their chances in their next match at home against Nottingham Forest.

    Leicester City, former 2015/16 League champions secured promotion from the championship back to the top flight of English football after just one year of absence.

    Their One-all draw again against an underwhelming Spurs side saw Jamie Vardy roll back the Years with a clinical header to level the sides in the second half after an Unrehearsed first-half performance that saw them concede from their Former skippers cross into the box in the 28th minute.

    Leicester look to build on the result as they’ll travel to Cottage Road for their next Game Against Fulham on Saturday.