Nsidibe Akpan

Botafogo host Fluminense at the Estádio Nilton Santos in Brasileirão Gameweek 22. Botafogo are eighth with 29 points and have lost only once in their last eight matches, while 13 days of rest could give them an advantage. Fourth-placed Fluminense have 34 points but are under pressure after Copa do Brasil elimination by Vasco da Gama and a six-match winless run in official competitions. Both sides have several unavailable or doubtful players, including Botafogo's Huguinho and Fluminense's Thiago Silva, Freytes, Martinelli and Julian Millan. The preview predicts a tight contest ending in a 1-0 Botafogo victory.

Tottenham Hotspur host Getafe at Hotspur Way in a pre-season friendly after winning all four of their summer matches. Roberto De Zerbi has overseen major squad changes and received substantial transfer backing, while Getafe enter the game after mixed results and a recent defeat by Monaco. Tottenham are expected to benefit from home advantage and Getafe's likely rotation after playing two days earlier, with the preview predicting a 2-0 Spurs win.

Eddie Howe is set to leave Newcastle United after nearly five years, reportedly following growing frustration over player departures, squad competitiveness, financial regulations and the personal strain of his expanded responsibilities. The split is described as mutual, with Newcastle’s hierarchy having tried to persuade him to stay. Matthias Jaissle, currently at Al Ahli, is lined up as his replacement after winning major domestic and Asian honours. Howe leaves a strong legacy, including two Champions League qualifications and Newcastle’s first major trophy in decades, but his tenure ended after a difficult season in which the club finished 12th in the Premier League and exited the Champions League to Barcelona.

Mirassol host Remo in a Brazilian Serie A relegation battle, with both clubs sitting in the bottom four after 20 matches. Mirassol have an excellent recent home record and are favored to win despite goalkeeper Walter's suspension and several injury concerns. Remo's recent victory over Vitória restored confidence, but their poor away record remains a major weakness. The visitors are expected to rely on Jaja and Alef Manga in counter-attacking situations, while Mirassol should control possession and pressure. The predicted result is a 2-1 win for Mirassol.

Global football transfer spending reached a record $13.08 billion in 2025, and the 2026 summer window is already threatening to surpass it. Chelsea’s £117 million purchase of Morgan Rogers followed Manchester City’s £116 million signing of Elliot Anderson, while Tottenham committed more than £185 million to midfielders. Premier League clubs’ exceptional revenues, television and competition income, longer player contracts, and demand for young assets with resale value continue to drive prices upward. Financial regulations have mainly changed the accounting and structure of deals through amortisation rules rather than reducing spending. The trend is occurring alongside substantial club losses, including Chelsea’s record £355 million deficit, while projected revenue growth is slowing. With the window still open, the market appears to have no clear ceiling.

Los Angeles FC host Sporting Kansas City at BMO Stadium in the 2026 MLS regular season. LAFC have won three straight matches and sit fifth in the Western Conference, while Sporting Kansas City are near the bottom of the league after four wins and 10 defeats. LAFC have also won their last seven meetings with Sporting KC, and the emerging partnership between Son Heung-min and Denis Bouanga strengthens the hosts' prospects. Several players are unavailable or doubtful through injury, but the preview predicts a comfortable 3-0 LAFC victory.

New England Revolution host Atlanta United in an MLS regular-season match, seeking to end a two-game winless and scoreless run. New England have lost only once in nine home league matches and are unbeaten in their last four meetings with Atlanta, while Atlanta arrive without a win in six matches despite recovering from 2-0 down to draw 2-2 with Charlotte FC. New England have several injury concerns, and Atlanta will miss suspended Tomas Jacob along with multiple injured players. The preview predicts a 3-2 home victory, citing New England's home advantage and superior head-to-head record, while acknowledging Atlanta's attacking threat and improved confidence after their comeback.

Chapecoense enter the match in last place after significant squad changes, injuries and inconsistent form, while new coach Rafael Lacerda prioritises defensive organisation. Flamengo return from the World Cup break in strong form, competing for the league title and progressing in multiple competitions, with Leonardo Jardim maintaining a settled, attack-minded side despite several injury concerns. Flamengo’s superior quality, momentum and historical record make them clear favourites, with a comfortable win expected.

Kevin Keegan, one of English football’s most influential figures, has died at 75 after battling cancer. Rising from Scunthorpe to global stardom with Liverpool and Hamburg, he won multiple major titles, two Ballons d’Or and captained England. As a manager, he revitalised Newcastle United with his famed Entertainers and later led Fulham, England and Manchester City. Tributes from major clubs praised his impact, while his family highlighted his devotion to them. He is remembered as a transformative player, inspirational manager and enduring football icon.

Kevin Keegan, a major figure in English football as both a player and manager, has died at 75 following cancer. His career included major success with Liverpool in the 1970s, two Ballon d'Or wins with Hamburg, and 63 caps for England. As Newcastle United manager, he built the celebrated Entertainers side and later managed Fulham, England, and Manchester City. Tributes highlight his influence, passion, and lasting impact on clubs and supporters across generations.

KI Klaksvik enter the first leg of their Champions League second qualifying round against Kauno Zalgiris on strong home form and with a settled squad, maintaining the disciplined counterattacking approach developed under coach Magnus Powell. Kauno Zalgiris arrive as Lithuanian champions and recent Super Cup winners but with mixed recent league results, though strengthened by the addition of midfielder Ivan Fiolic. KI’s home advantage and familiarity with their artificial pitch make them slight favourites, with a narrow home win predicted before the return leg in Lithuania.

FIFA introduces a championship ring for the 2026 World Cup winners, with 2,026 rings produced, including 30 for the winning squad and staff and the rest for sale to fans. The rings feature 18‑karat gold with diamonds and sapphires, produced by YS Partners SA and sold through Champions Ring 2026. Prices are expected between $10,000 and $150,000. Designs for Argentina and Spain are prepared, with the final result determining which enters production. The initiative reflects North American sporting traditions during the tournament co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Messi’s pursuit of a second World Cup title intensifies the long-standing debate over whether he or Ronaldo deserves the GOAT label. Argentina’s late comeback win over England sends them to the final against Spain, placing Messi on the brink of joining elite historical company. Supporters argue that a second title would cement his superiority, while Ronaldo’s backers highlight his longevity, international scoring record and success across multiple clubs. Despite Messi’s achievements and Ronaldo’s enduring records, differing criteria for greatness ensure the rivalry’s debate will continue beyond the World Cup.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup final in New Jersey will feature the tournament’s first official half-time show, co-headlined by Madonna, Shakira, BTS and Justin Bieber, alongside an expanded closing ceremony led by Post Malone. Additional performers include Burna Boy, Gustavo Dudamel, Coldplay with the PS22 Chorus, and various guest entertainers. The event supports the Global Citizen Education Fund, aiming to raise $100 million for global youth programs. Broadcast coverage will be provided by FOX and Telemundo, with large fan gatherings expected in New York.

Club Leon open the Apertura 2026 season against Atlas under a new closed-league structure that eliminates promotion and relegation. Leon enter with stability under Javier Gandolfi and home advantage, while Atlas arrive unsettled following Diego Cocca’s departure and the imminent appointment of Hernan Crespo. Squad adjustments and foreign-player limits shape Leon’s selection, while Atlas travel with a caretaker coach. Despite Atlas’s stronger defensive record last season, their disrupted preparation favors Leon, who are predicted to win 2-0.

Spain and Argentina’s progression to the World Cup final has narrowed the 2026 Ballon d’Or race to Lamine Yamal and Lionel Messi, with both players positioned to strengthen their cases through a decisive performance in the final. Messi enters with eight goals and four assists, continuing to guide Argentina in search of consecutive World Cup titles, while Yamal’s influence on Spain’s attacking structure and his trophy-winning season with Barcelona bolster his claim. Although the award reflects an entire season, the final may shape voter perception after several leading contenders were eliminated in the semi‑finals.

Borac Banja Luka and Levski Sofia meet in the first Champions League qualifying round after championship-winning domestic seasons. Borac enter with strong defensive form and home advantage, while Levski arrive as newly crowned Bulgarian champions with notable attacking options and a richer European history. Predicted lineups highlight key players on both sides, with Borac favoured to secure a narrow first-leg win.

Belgium overturned a two-goal deficit to defeat Senegal 3-2 after extra time in a World Cup round‑of‑32 match, with Youri Tielemans scoring twice, including a decisive late penalty. Senegal controlled much of the game and held a 2-0 lead through goals from Habib Diarra and Ismaila Sarr before late strikes from Romelu Lukaku and Tielemans forced extra time. A VAR‑awarded penalty in stoppage time of extra time sealed Belgium’s comeback. Player ratings highlight Belgium’s struggles before their late surge and Senegal’s collapse despite strong individual performances early in the match.

Internacional and Chapecoense enter their Brasileiro clash under pressure after slow starts to the season, each having secured only one win so far. Internacional look to build on a recent victory that ended a long winless spell, while injuries and suspensions ease ahead of the match. Chapecoense continue to struggle for consistency after a disappointing state championship campaign and recent league form. With home advantage and returning key players, Internacional are predicted to earn a narrow win to relieve pressure and potentially move out of the relegation zone.

Cruzeiro seek their first league win as they remain in the relegation zone after a poor start marked by defensive issues and a managerial change, with interim coach Wesley Carvalho managing several injury concerns. Santos arrive in inconsistent form after the dismissal of Juan Pablo Vojvoda and the appointment of Cuca, also dealing with key injuries but boosted by Luan Peres’s return. Both teams show defensive weaknesses, suggesting an open match in which Santos are tipped to edge a narrow victory.

Feyenoord seek to strengthen their hold on second place in the Eredivisie as they host Ajax, who aim to close the gap to the top three under new coach Oscar Garcia. Feyenoord enter in strong home form despite a long injury list, while Ajax remain inconsistent and struggle away from home. Both teams are expected to attack aggressively, with a high-scoring draw predicted.

Paris FC aim to build on recent defensive improvement under Antoine Kombouare as they host Le Havre in a low‑scoring fixture historically defined by draws. Paris FC enter the match with renewed stability and key players returning from injury, while Le Havre arrive struggling away from home and missing several suspended or injured squad members. The preview suggests Paris FC may edge a narrow win due to stronger recent form and home advantage.

PEC Zwolle aim to end a six‑match winless run as they host relegation‑threatened NAC Breda, who are dealing with poor form and supporter unrest following a heavy defeat. Zwolle remain competitive despite multiple injuries, while Breda enter the match weakened by suspensions and off‑field tensions. Both sides struggle for consistency, leading to an expected draw.

Sparta Rotterdam enter the match seeking to end a six‑game winless run that has pushed them out of European qualification contention, despite maintaining a strong recent home record. FC Volendam arrive with poor away form but confidence from their KNVB Cup win at the same venue in January. Both sides face injury concerns, with Sparta expecting several returning players and Volendam missing key squad members. Sparta are tipped to edge the match 2–1 based on home stability and the visitors’ struggles on the road.

Rayo Vallecano enter the second leg of their Europa Conference League round of 16 tie with a 3–1 advantage after an efficient first-leg win in Turkey. Strong attacking output and an unbeaten home record place them in a favourable position to advance, with key players expected to return to the lineup. Samsunspor face a difficult task away from home, needing to overturn a two‑goal deficit while coping with injuries and defensive issues, though they can draw confidence from recent domestic victory and the form of Mouandilmadji. Rayo are predicted to secure a 2–0 win and progress 5–1 on aggregate.

AZ Alkmaar aim to reinforce their European qualification push as they host bottom‑placed Heracles, entering the match as strong favourites thanks to superior league form and longstanding dominance in the fixture. AZ’s inconsistent recent results contrast with Heracles’ ongoing relegation battle, marked by defensive struggles and a lack of scoring. Injuries and suspensions affect both squads, with AZ missing Alexandre Penetra and Heracles still without several key players. AZ are expected to win 3–1 based on stronger performances and attacking capabilities.

Feyenoord aim to consolidate second place in the Eredivisie as they host struggling city rivals Excelsior, who are battling a four‑match losing streak and sit near the relegation zone. Despite recent away inconsistencies, Feyenoord hold a strong home record and have dominated past meetings between the clubs. Excelsior’s poor run has intensified their fight for survival. Feyenoord face multiple injuries and a suspension, while Excelsior regain Arthur Zagre but continue to deal with fitness issues. Feyenoord are expected to win comfortably, supported by their home form and overall squad quality.

Strasbourg aim to maintain their push for European qualification as they face Paris FC amid a congested fixture schedule and several injuries. The team must rotate heavily after recent matches in domestic and European competitions. Paris FC, recently stabilized under new coach Antoine Kombouare, seek to build on improved results and maintain distance from the relegation zone. Strasbourg’s depth and fatigue are key factors, while Paris FC arrive with renewed confidence after ending a winless run and performing strongly against Lyon.

Lorient seek to stabilise their mid‑table position while Lens pursue the Ligue 1 title, with the hosts showing resilience but struggling to convert draws into wins. Lens arrive in strong form after league and cup victories, holding one of the best away records and a favourable recent history against Lorient. Both sides face multiple injuries, and projections favour Lens extending their title push with a decisive win.

PSV Eindhoven host NEC Nijmegen in a key late-season Eredivisie match, with PSV leading the league comfortably and aiming to respond after a recent cup defeat to NEC. PSV enter the match in strong domestic form despite several injuries, while NEC push for a Champions League spot and carry momentum from a cup semifinal victory and a win over Volendam. Both sides are among the highest scorers in the league, though NEC’s defensive vulnerabilities persist. A competitive match is expected, with a predicted 2-2 draw.

PEC Zwolle and Groningen meet in an Eredivisie match with both teams aiming to improve consistency as the season enters its final phase. Zwolle sit 13th after a winless run but remain strong at home and have a favorable record against Groningen. The visitors, 10th in the table, recently ended a six‑game losing streak with a win over Ajax but continue to struggle away from home. Both sides face several injury concerns, including Zwolle’s multiple absentees and Groningen’s setbacks involving Zawada, Mercera and captain Stije Resink. A balanced contest is expected, with a 1‑1 draw predicted.

HNK Rijeka and Strasbourg meet in the first leg of the UEFA Conference League round of 16, with both teams entering the tie in strong form. Rijeka progressed through the league phase and knockout play-offs with solid defensive performances and key contributions from several attackers, while Strasbourg topped the league phase unbeaten and advanced directly to the last 16. Both sides face injury concerns and potential suspensions. With Rijeka relying on home advantage and Strasbourg showing consistency throughout the tournament, the match is expected to be closely contested, with a 1-1 draw predicted.

Nice aim to extend their home resilience as they host a Rennes side revitalised under Franck Haise, with both clubs adjusting to recent coaching changes. Nice look to build on a Coupe de France semifinal qualification despite inconsistent league form, while Rennes enter the match on a three‑game winning streak following a tactical shift to a 4‑3‑3 system. Injuries affect both squads, though Nice expect Sofiane Diop to return and Rennes continue to benefit from winter signings. The preview predicts a narrow home win due to Nice’s recent stability at the Allianz Riviera.

Lens seek to regain momentum in their push for Champions League qualification as they host bottom‑placed Metz, who are facing a severe relegation battle after a long winless run. Lens enter the match with strong home form and renewed confidence after a Coupe de France victory, while Metz continue to struggle despite a managerial change and multiple injuries. With both squads missing key players, Lens are widely expected to secure a convincing win.

Groningen enter the match on a six‑game losing run marked by defensive frailty and late collapses, sitting mid‑table but trending downward. Ajax, despite an unbeaten streak, are under pressure after missed chances to widen the gap in the race for Champions League qualification. With Ajax historically dominant in this fixture and recovering key players, the matchup presents a strong opportunity for them to regain momentum. Injuries affect both squads, notably Groningen captain Stije Resink and Ajax goalkeeper Vitezslav Jaros, while predicted lineups highlight Ajax’s attacking advantage, leading to expectations of an away victory.

Auxerre continue their battle against relegation as they host Strasbourg, having shown slight improvement with recent results and a stronger defensive record than other struggling sides. Strasbourg arrive boosted by a Coupe de France quarter-final win but inconsistent league form has left them chasing European qualification. Both teams face injury concerns, with several Auxerre players sidelined and Strasbourg managing returning players and disciplinary risks. Predicted lineups feature key attackers for both sides, and the expected result is a 1-1 draw based on current form and circumstances.

Heracles enter the match in severe relegation danger after four straight losses and the league’s worst defensive record, while Utrecht arrive in strong form with three wins in their last four and ambitions of securing European qualification. Utrecht’s injury-depleted defence remains a concern, but their recent victory over AZ Alkmaar and overall momentum position them as favourites. Heracles continue to struggle with instability, ongoing absences and poor home results, increasing pressure on manager Ernest Faber, while Utrecht target another three points to strengthen their hold on the final European spot.

Orlando City and Inter Miami enter their early-season MLS derby seeking to rebound from opening defeats, with Orlando aiming to stabilise after a loss to the New York Red Bulls and Miami looking to recover from a heavy defeat to LAFC. Orlando rely on Oscar Pareja’s leadership and key performers such as Martin Ojeda and Maxime Crepeau, while Inter Miami, led by Javier Mascherano, bring star power including Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez. Team news reflects injury concerns for Orlando and a fully fit Miami squad. The preview tips Miami’s attacking strength to secure a 4-2 win despite Orlando’s home advantage.

FC Twente enter their match against Feyenoord on a 14‑game unbeaten league run and seeking to strengthen their push for European qualification, while Feyenoord look to consolidate second place and maintain pressure on leaders PSV after three consecutive wins. Twente’s defensive strength at home contrasts with Feyenoord’s strong historical record in the fixture. Both sides face injury concerns, with several key players unavailable. A tightly contested match is anticipated, with a 2–2 draw predicted.

Excelsior and Go Ahead Eagles enter their Eredivisie clash level on points and battling to avoid slipping toward relegation danger. Excelsior seek to end a poor run marked by consecutive defeats and limited recent home success, while Go Ahead Eagles look to build on a morale‑boosting win that ended an extended winless streak. Both sides face key injury concerns, and with neither wanting to risk further setbacks, the match is expected to finish in a draw.

PEC Zwolle aim to halt their winless run as they host Ajax, who seek points to strengthen their push for European qualification. Zwolle have struggled for consistency but remain competitive at home, while Ajax continue to score regularly despite recent mixed results and key injuries. Both sides face selection issues, with PEC missing several players through injury and suspension and Ajax dealing with long-term absences but welcoming Davy Klaassen back to training. A narrow Ajax win is predicted as they attempt to keep pressure on NEC Nijmegen.

NEC aim to strengthen their Champions League push as they host Fortuna Sittard, entering the match third in the Eredivisie but winless in three games. Fortuna arrive with confidence from a recent home victory but continue to struggle defensively, especially away from home. NEC expect to field a near-full squad, while Fortuna contend with multiple injuries. The hosts are predicted to secure a 3-1 win based on superior form and home advantage.

Heracles face league leaders PSV Eindhoven with relegation pressures mounting after consecutive defeats and the league’s worst defensive record. PSV maintain a strong lead at the top despite a recent setback and remain dominant historically in this fixture. Heracles will be without several injured players, while PSV also miss key attackers but retain significant squad depth. PSV are favored for a comfortable win given their superior form, away record, and head‑to‑head dominance.

Feyenoord aim to secure second place in the Eredivisie as they host relegation-threatened Telstar, having shown mixed recent form but maintaining a strong scoring record and historical dominance in the fixture. Raheem Sterling may debut following his January move, though Feyenoord remain hampered by multiple injuries. Telstar continue to struggle with limited possession, few wins and poor away results as they fight to avoid relegation. Feyenoord are predicted to win 2–0, with Champions League qualification their primary target.

Nantes enter the match in severe relegation danger after an extended run of losses and poor scoring and defensive records, while Le Havre arrive in more stable mid-table form despite away struggles and recent suspensions and injuries. Nantes remain historically strong in this fixture and may see this as an opportunity to end their losing streak. Le Havre have shown resilience in recent matches but face squad absences, including a suspension for captain Arouna Sangante. The preview tips Nantes to edge a narrow victory to boost their chances of reaching the relegation playoff position.

Ajax seek to maintain momentum after a convincing win over Fortuna Sittard as they host NEC, with both sides level on points in the race for European qualification. Ajax’s strong home scoring record contrasts with recent mixed form, while NEC arrive as surprise contenders despite dropping points in their last two matches. Injuries sideline Zinchenko and Berghuis for Ajax, but new signing Carrizo becomes available. NEC welcome back Ouaissa and retain a fully fit squad, with Ogawa in form after his latest goal. A high-scoring, evenly balanced contest is anticipated, with a draw considered likely.

NEC enter the match against FC Utrecht in excellent form, riding a long winning streak and pushing for a Champions League qualification spot with one point. Strong offensive output and consistent results position them as clear favourites. Utrecht, winless since mid-December and struggling with injuries and suspensions, face significant challenges as they sit near the relegation zone. NEC welcome Bram Nuytinck back from injury, while Utrecht contend with multiple absences including a suspension for Rodriguez. A comfortable NEC victory is predicted.

Auxerre face Paris FC in a key Ligue 1 relegation battle, entering the match on a six‑game winless run marked by scoring difficulties and defensive issues. Paris FC arrive in more stable form, unbeaten in recent league fixtures and showing resilience with improved away performances. Auxerre continue to struggle with injuries and discipline, while Paris FC also contend with multiple absences but maintain better momentum. Paris FC are tipped to edge a narrow win based on their recent consistency and stronger away record.

Dunfermline Athletic host Kelty Hearts in a Scottish Cup fifth‑round Fife derby, entering as favourites due to their higher division status and stronger recent performances. Dunfermline’s cup run has included wins over Queen of the South and Hibernian, though their league form remains inconsistent. Kelty Hearts arrive amid a challenging League One campaign but have shown resilience in the cup and recently underwent an ownership change led by Jordan Gardner. Both sides face selection issues, with suspensions and injuries shaping likely lineups. Dunfermline are predicted to edge the match 2-1, with home advantage and squad quality expected to be decisive.

PEC Zwolle seek to build on strong home form to move closer to the Eredivisie top eight, while FC Volendam aim to escape relegation danger. Zwolle enter with inconsistent results but solid scoring at home, though defensive issues persist. Volendam struggle for league wins and remain close to the playoff zone, with injuries affecting squad depth. Zwolle are favoured for a 2-0 win based on recent performances and home advantage.

NEC enter the match in strong form, sitting third in the Eredivisie with one of the league’s most prolific attacks and an extended unbeaten run. Heracles arrive under pressure after a poor season marked by defensive struggles and a weak away record. NEC remain without two injured players but retain their key scorers, while Heracles continue to deal with injuries and disciplinary concerns. NEC are favored to win due to their attacking quality and consistent performances, with a predicted 3-1 victory.

PSV aim to advance in the KNVB Beker as they host Heerenveen, entering the match as strong favourites due to their dominant home form and position at the top of the Eredivisie. Recent European elimination has shifted their focus to domestic competitions, while Heerenveen arrive with inconsistent form despite notable wins earlier in the campaign. Both sides manage several injuries, but PSV are expected to field a strong lineup as they push for a league and cup double, with a 3-1 home victory predicted.

Troyes and Lens meet in the Coupe de France Round of 16, with Troyes aiming to bounce back from recent league defeats after progressing through earlier cup rounds with efficient performances. Lens enter in exceptional form, winning 11 of their last 12 matches and breaking club records under coach Pierre Sage. Both squads face injury concerns, though Troyes may debut new signing Kandet Diawara. Lens are expected to rotate but maintain a strong lineup as they pursue their first Coupe de France title. Lens’ superior form and quality make them favourites to advance.

AZ Alkmaar and FC Twente meet in the KNVB Beker quarter-finals with AZ aiming to revive their season under new coach Leeroy Echteld and Twente entering the tie on a long unbeaten run despite recent draws. AZ’s inconsistency contrasts with a strong cup showing highlighted by a 6–0 win over Ajax, while Twente’s resilient away form offsets concerns over squad depth. Both sides face key injuries, with AZ missing several regulars and Twente without experienced defenders and midfielders. The match is expected to be tight, with AZ predicted to edge the contest after extra time to reach the semi-finals.

Nice and Brest meet in Ligue 1 with both teams seeking consistency amid mid‑table standings. Nice approach the match after ending an eight‑game league winless run but continue to struggle defensively and face numerous injuries. Brest sit slightly higher in the table but have poor away form and recent defeats, though they regain top scorer Romain Del Castillo. Both sides have mixed head‑to‑head history, with Nice strong at home. Brest are tipped to edge the match 2–1 given their relatively stronger recent form.

Angers aim to climb into the top half of Ligue 1 as they host relegation‑battling Metz, with both teams seeking to end poor recent form. Angers enter in mid‑table but face injury concerns including top scorer Sidiki Cherif and Himad Abdelli, while Metz remain in the drop zone under new coach Benoit Tavenot after a difficult season marked by defensive struggles. Both sides face limited squad options, and a low‑scoring contest is expected, with a 0‑0 draw predicted.

AZ Alkmaar and NEC meet in a key Eredivisie match with both teams competing for a top‑four position and Champions League qualification. AZ aim to build on strong home form despite several injuries, while NEC arrive unbeaten in 10 games but continue to struggle defensively. Team news highlights multiple absences for both sides, and projected lineups emphasise AZ’s midfield adjustments and NEC’s attacking strengths. The matchup is expected to be close, with a slight advantage projected for AZ at home.

Lorient enter the match on a strong 10-game unbeaten run across competitions, backed by disciplined defending and solid home form. Nantes arrive under heavy relegation pressure after losing 11 of 19 league matches and displaying defensive vulnerabilities, despite occasional impressive performances. Lorient face several injury absences, while Nantes contend with suspensions and fitness concerns. Given contrasting form, Lorient are favored to secure a 3–1 win.