It would seem that all the best players should be at the World Cup, but not all national teams managed to qualify, which means many top-class footballers will miss the tournament.

The Dailysports team has compiled a ranking of the best players who will not go to the World Cup.

The Nigerian national team recently delivered an excellent Africa Cup of Nations campaign, where they secured the bronze medals. However, before that tournament they failed to qualify for the World Cup. They finished second in their qualifying group and did not advance to the intercontinental playoff.

• Read also: FIFA has a contingency plan if national teams withdraw from the World Cup

As a result, we will not see two top strikers at the World Cup — Osimhen and Lookman. Victor, by the way, scored six goals in qualifying and provided one assist. Overall this season, the striker has played 29 matches in all competitions for Galatasaray, scoring 19 goals and adding seven assists. He is only 27 years old, and he would clearly have been an important and standout player at the World Cup.

The same applies to his national team partner Ademola Lookman. The 28-year-old forward moved in the winter from Atalanta to Atletico Madrid. He played 34 matches in all competitions for both clubs, scoring eight goals and adding six assists. The player has settled into Diego Simeone’s team, and it is a real shame he will not be at the 2026 World Cup.

The Gabon international is already 36 years old, but he is still showing high-level football. Aubameyang currently plays for Marseille and has made 36 appearances in all competitions, scoring 12 goals and providing ten assists. He also tried to carry his national team to the 2026 World Cup. He played six qualifying matches and scored seven goals. His team finished second in their qualifying group but lost 1–4 to Nigeria in the playoff. Aubameyang has never played at a World Cup, and neither has Gabon as a nation. The striker will most likely never get that chance.

Guirassy played 40 matches in all competitions this season for Borussia Dortmund — he is incredibly important both for the German side and his national team. However, he did not stand out statistically in World Cup qualifying. In eight matches, Guirassy scored one goal and could not help his team enough. Over ten matches, his national team collected 15 points and finished fourth in the table. They had no chance of progressing. One of the Bundesliga’s best strikers will miss the 2026 World Cup.

In the summer of 2025, Bryan Mbeumo moved from Brentford to Manchester United, where he immediately secured a place in the starting lineup and began showing strong performances. This season, the attacking player has made 27 appearances in all competitions, scoring ten goals and providing three assists. He is helping the Red Devils climb high in the table, but he could not do the same for Cameroon.

His national team surprisingly lost first place in their qualifying group to Cape Verde but still had a chance to reach the intercontinental playoff. However, they failed there as well, losing to DR Congo. In qualifying, Mbeumo played all 11 matches, scored four goals, and provided several assists, but we will not see him at the 2026 World Cup despite his strong club form.

Last winter, Georgian winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia moved from Napoli to PSG, where he went on to win the UEFA Champions League just a few months later. Under Luis Enrique, Kvaratskhelia has become an essential part of the system. This season he has already played 39 matches, scoring 13 goals and providing eight assists.

• Also: Ticket scandal rocks 2026 World Cup: FIFA accused of deception

For Georgia, he is also a true leader and star, but he could not help his team reach the 2026 World Cup. In qualification, he played all six matches and scored two goals. His team collected just three points, which was not enough. Georgia will once again miss the World Cup.

The 37-year-old Poland striker is still delivering high-level football and strong numbers. This season, Lewandowski has played 39 matches, scoring 17 goals and providing three assists for Barcelona. He is currently fighting for La Liga and the UEFA Champions League, but he will not go to the World Cup with his national team.

Although he did everything he could — playing nine matches, scoring five goals and providing three assists. Poland reached the qualifying playoffs, where they lost the final to Sweden 2–3. For the first time in the last three editions, Poland will not play at the World Cup. For Lewandowski, this was likely his last chance.

The Italian national team has once again failed to qualify for the World Cup. The side continues to set unwanted records in football history. Italy lost to Norway in their group but still had a chance to qualify through the playoffs. They reached the final, where they lost to Bosnia and Herzegovina on penalties. For the third consecutive time, Italy will miss the tournament.

Among the players in this team, Gianluigi Donnarumma and Nicolò Barella stand out. The goalkeeper is one of the best in his position and was named the best in the previous season. However, this is now the second consecutive World Cup he will miss with the national team. Barella is arguably one of the best players for Inter and Italy. He played nine qualifying matches and provided one assist. However, neither he nor Donnarumma could help the team reach the World Cup.

The striker moved to Napoli after failing to establish himself at Manchester United. And in the Italian side he has rediscovered his form. Across 37 matches this season, the Dane has scored 14 goals and provided four assists. In World Cup qualifying, Højlund delivered excellent football and strong numbers. He played seven matches and scored five goals.

• Breaking! Neymar undergoes surgery ahead of World Cup. Are his hopes for the tournament dashed?

He helped his team finish second in the qualifying table, but in the playoffs they lost the final to the Czech Republic on penalties. Denmark will miss the World Cup for the first time in the last three editions, and it will be a first disappointment for Højlund as well.

This season, Liverpool have not shown consistent results and the team has been struggling after their title-winning campaign. However, one player who stands out is Szoboszlai, who has played 45 matches this season, scoring 12 goals and providing eight assists. The midfielder has repeatedly rescued Liverpool during this campaign, but he could not save Hungary.

Hungary needed to beat Ireland in the final round of 2026 World Cup qualifying to secure second place, but they twice squandered the lead and lost 2–3 in the dying minutes. Hungary have now missed out on a tenth consecutive World Cup. Dominik Szoboszlai played six qualifying matches, scored one goal and provided four assists. He was one of the best performers in the campaign, but it was not enough.

In the current campaign, forward Leon Bailey has not been getting enough playing time. He has made 24 appearances in all competitions but played only 713 minutes — equivalent to just seven full matches. In that time, he scored one goal and provided one assist. However, for his national team he is a real star and a key hope who was expected to help Jamaica reach the World Cup.

They reached the third qualifying round, finished second in their group, and played in the intercontinental playoff. They beat New Caledonia 1–0 but lost to DR Congo. Bailey played four matches and provided one assist. That was not enough to help Jamaica reach the World Cup. Since 1998, Jamaica have been unable to qualify for the tournament.

The Ukrainian defender has taken an incredible step forward in his career. He moved from Bournemouth to PSG, but has yet to find full consistency, although he still gets playing time at his new club. So far, he has made 30 appearances in all competitions and even scored one goal.

However, for his national team, Zabarnyi is a leader and captain. He played all seven matches in World Cup qualifying. Ukraine finished second in their group and earned a playoff spot, but lost in the semifinal to Sweden 1–3. For 20 years now, Ukraine have remained without a place at football’s biggest tournament.

The Kosovo national team striker plays for Mallorca, where he is delivering excellent performances. He has scored 19 goals in La Liga and is currently second in the league’s top scorers chart. His Mallorca side sits 16th in the La Liga table, just two points above the relegation zone, but Muriqi remains in outstanding form.

• Read also: BREAKING! Messi's World Cup participation in serious doubt

In World Cup qualifying, Vedat Muriqi played eight matches. He helped his team reach the qualification playoffs, where Kosovo beat Slovakia 4–3, but then lost the final to Turkey 0–1. Kosovo came very close to making a historic breakthrough and reaching the World Cup, but it was not meant to be. The Spain-based striker was unable to help his national team achieve the dream.

The Serbian striker has not been getting much playing time this campaign due to an injury he picked up during the season. He has played 18 matches for Juventus in all competitions, scoring six goals and providing two assists. He has been sidelined since December with injury issues.

In 2026 World Cup qualifying, Vlahović played seven matches, scoring two goals and providing one assist. His national team finished third in the qualifying table, collecting 13 points from eight matches. Serbia will miss the World Cup for the first time in the last three editions.

The Slovenian goalkeeper is now 33 years old and had another chance to reach the World Cup. However, Slovenia missed out once again. After six rounds, the team collected just four points and finished third in the table. This will be the third consecutive World Cup without Slovenia.

Oblak continues to perform at a high level for Atlético Madrid and his national team. He played five matches in qualifying, but his efforts were not enough. Unfortunately, it is uncertain whether he will ever get another chance to feature at a World Cup.

This will be the 35th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations, with 24 national teams competing for the title of the best on the continent. The Ivory Coast national team will attempt to defend their championship crown.

• Read also: QUIZ. How well do you know the history of the Africa Cup of Nations?

The 24 teams have been divided into six groups of four. The top two teams from each group will qualify directly for the knockout stage. Four more teams will advance to the round of 16 based on the ranking of third-placed sides.

The Dailysports team has prepared a complete schedule, results and group standings for each group.

Kick-off times are listed in CET.

• Matchday 1

21.1220:00 Morocco vs Comoros 2:022.1215:00 Mali vs Zambia 1:1

• Matchday 2

26.1218:30 Zambia vs Comoros 0:021:00 Morocco vs Mali 1:1

• Matchday 3

29.1220:00 Zambia vs Morocco 0:320:00 Comoros vs Mali 0:0

• Matchday 1

22.1218:00 South Africa vs Angola 2:121:00 Egypt vs Zimbabwe 2:1

• Matchday 2

26.1213:30 Angola vs Zimbabwe 1:116:00 Egypt vs South Africa 1:0

• Matchday 3

29.1217:00 Angola vs Egypt 0:017:00 Zimbabwe vs South Africa 2:3

• Matchday 1

23.1218:30 Nigeria vs Tanzania 2:121:00 Tunisia vs Uganda 3:1

• Matchday 2

27.1218:30 Uganda vs Tanzania 1:121:00 Nigeria vs Tunisia 3:2

• Matchday 3

30.1217:00 Uganda vs Nigeria 1:317:00 Tanzania vs Tunisia 1:1

• Matchday 1

23.1213:30 DR Congo vs Benin 1:016:00 Senegal vs Botswana 3:0

• Matchday 2

27.1213:30 Benin vs Botswana 1:016:00 Senegal vs DR Congo 1:1

• Matchday 3

30.1220:00 Benin vs Senegal 0:320:00 Botswana vs DR Congo 0:3

• Matchday 1

24.1213:30 Burkina Faso vs Equatorial Guinea 2:116:00 Algeria vs Sudan 3:0

• Matchday 2

28.1216:00 Equatorial Guinea vs Sudan 0:118:30 Algeria vs Burkina Faso 1:0

• Matchday 3

31.1217:00 Equatorial Guinea vs Algeria 1:317:00 Sudan vs Burkina Faso 0:2

• Matchday 1

24.1218:30 Ivory Coast vs Mozambique 1:021:00 Cameroon vs Gabon 1:0

• Matchday 2

28.1213:30 Gabon vs Mozambique 2:321:00 Ivory Coast vs Cameroon 1:1

• Matchday 3

31.1220:00 Gabon vs Ivory Coast 2:320:00 Mozambique vs Cameroon 1:2

3.0117:00 Senegal vs Sudan 3:120:00 Mali vs Tunisia 1:1, pen. 3:2

4.0117:00 Morocco vs Tanzania 1:020:00 South Africa vs Cameroon 1:2

5.0117:00 Egypt vs Benin 3:1 e.t.20:00 Nigeria vs Mozambique 4:0.

6.0117:00 Algerie vs DR Congo 1:0 e.t.20:00 Côte d'Ivoire vs Burkina Faso 3:0

9.0117:00 Mali vs Senegal 0:120:00 Cameroon vs Morocco 0:2

10.0117:00 Nigeria vs Algerie 2:020:00 Egypt vs Côte d'Ivoire 3:2

14.0118:00 Senegal vs Egypt 1:021:00 Nigeria vs Morocco 0:0, pen. 2:4

17.0117:00 Egypt vs Nigeria 0:0, pen. 2:4

18.0120:00 Senegal vs Morocco

However, not all of the best footballers will be on display. Several truly elite players will miss the African Cup of Nations 2025.

• Read also: QUIZ. How well do you know the history of the Africa Cup of Nations?

The Dailysports team has prepared a ranking of the ten footballers who will not take part in the African Cup of Nations 2025 in Morocco.

There is currently a very controversial situation with Onana and the Cameroon national team as a whole. The issue is that the Cameroon Football Federation appointed David Pagou as head coach and released the squad list for the tournament, in which Andre Onana was not included.

On the other hand, coach Marc Bris, who has not been officially dismissed and still considers himself the head of the team, published his own squad list, which does include Andre Onana.

However, FIFA’s official website lists David Pagou as the head coach, meaning his squad is the official one for the African Cup of Nations. As a result, Andre Onana will not play in the tournament.

Onana, however, has been showing good form recently. He plays for Trabzonspor in the Turkish Super League, currently sitting third in the table, just four points behind the leaders. Andre has played 12 matches for Trabzonspor, conceding 15 goals and keeping three clean sheets.

Another scandal erupted before the African Cup of Nations, which will see one of the Ivorian team’s leaders, Nicolas Pépé, absent from the tournament. He was excluded from the squad just days before the tournament. The reason was his sharp criticism of players who initially chose one national team and then switched to an African side.

Quote: “I’ll speak for myself. If a player first chose France and then one of the African teams, I would immediately kick him out if I were the federation president. That means, for him, for example, Ivory Coast is a second option,” Pépé told YouTube blogger Juste Riyad.

Ivory Coast head coach Emers Faye stated that if selection were based solely on footballing qualities, Nicolas Pépé would be in the squad, but off-field factors were also taken into account, so he will miss the African Cup of Nations.

This season, Nicolas Pépé has become a key player for Villarreal, scoring two goals and providing two assists in 22 appearances across all competitions.

In this case, there was no scandal. The issue is purely sporting: the Central African Republic failed to qualify for the African Cup of Nations. The team earned just three points in six qualifying matches, finishing last in their group.

Kondogbia played five of the six matches in this qualifying cycle. He is the leader and captain of his national team, but unfortunately, he could not lead his side to the tournament.

• Also: Africa Cup of Nations 2025. Full schedule, results and standings

Currently, Geoffrey Kondogbia plays for Marseille and is no longer as pivotal for the club. He has appeared in eight matches across all competitions this season. Last season, however, he played 26 matches for Marseille and was clearly a more important player. At 32 years old, the coaches’ logic is understandable.

For his national team, he is undoubtedly a leader and a legend, making it all the more disappointing that he will miss the African Cup of Nations 2025.

The Guinea national team came close to qualifying for the African Cup of Nations, but ultimately fell short by just one point, missing out on the 2025 finals. During the qualifiers, Sérú Girássi showcased excellent form, scoring six goals in four matches. Overall, Guinea scored nine goals in qualifying, meaning the striker accounted for the majority of his team’s goals.

Girássi plays for Borussia Dortmund and has been both regular and effective this season. He has appeared in 23 matches across all competitions, scoring nine goals and providing four assists. Dortmund currently sits in the Bundesliga top three, and Girássi’s contribution has been significant in achieving these results.

Notably, last season Girássi scored 38 goals and provided nine assists, finishing as the second top scorer in the Bundesliga and the top scorer in the UEFA Champions League with nine goals and two assists.

The Ghana national team became a real shock in the qualifiers for CAN 2025, but for all the wrong reasons. Over six qualifying matches, Ghana earned just three points, finished last in their group, and failed to reach the tournament. For the first time in 11 editions of the African Cup of Nations, Ghana did not qualify. As a result, several top Ghanaian players will miss the tournament.

Mohammed Kudus, who joined Tottenham in the summer of 2025 for €63.8 million, will not feature at CAN 2025. At his new club, he quickly became a key attacking player, appearing in 22 matches, scoring three goals, and providing six assists. In the CAN qualifiers, Kudus played all six matches but contributed only one assist.

• Read also: Dailysports vs Ratingbet vs Foot Africa: the battle of predictions for the third round of AFCON 2025!

Anthony Semenyo, currently at Bournemouth, could soon surpass Kudus’ transfer value in a move to a top club. He is indispensable to his current team, having scored seven goals and provided three assists in 16 appearances. However, Semenyo’s performance in CAN 2025 qualifying was underwhelming, with no goal contributions in four matches.

Another Ghanaian star missing the African Cup of Nations is Thomas Partey. Last summer, he joined Villarreal on a free transfer and quickly became an integral part of the team, playing 17 matches across all competitions. However, in the CAN 2025 qualifiers, he appeared in only two matches and could not make a significant impact for Ghana.

The 24-year-old striker has been in excellent form recently. In the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, Livramento scored four goals in eight matches, helping Cape Verde qualify for the World Cup for the first time in history. However, the team struggled in the African Cup of Nations 2025 qualifiers, earning only four points in six matches and finishing last in their group.

Livramento currently plays for Portuguese side Casa Pia. He has appeared in 12 matches for the club this season but has yet to score.

Gambia participated in the African Cup of Nations in 2021 and 2023, but failed to qualify for this edition. They earned eight points in six qualifying matches, which proved insufficient, leaving them in third place and out of the final tournament.

Alieu Fadera played four matches in the qualifiers but did not register any goal contributions. Despite this, he is a young and promising winger currently playing in Serie A. Fadera represents Sassuolo, having made 16 appearances for the Italian side, scoring one goal and providing two assists. A solid performance, especially considering he is on loan at Sassuolo.

Togo earned five points in the CAN 2025 qualifiers, which was not enough to secure a place in the tournament. Consequently, their striker Kevin Denké, who scored two goals for Togo in qualifying, will also miss the African Cup of Nations. It is a real loss, as Denké has been showing excellent form this season.

Denké spent the season in MLS, scoring 18 goals and providing three assists in 37 appearances across all competitions. He helped FC Cincinnati reach the playoffs and advance to the quarter-finals.

• Read also: Problem for Amorim. Cunha could miss the match against Everton due to injury

Why the “small” toe matters

That fifth toe sits right where the boot narrows and compresses the lateral forefoot. It’s part of the edge you push off when you chop, feint and press. You can walk around the training ground fine, but 90 minutes of sharp plants inside a tight boot is a completely different load.

Likely timeframe

A straightforward toe/metatarsal fracture usually needs around 3–6 weeks for bone healing. The aggressive end (around three weeks) is only realistic if:

• The fracture line is favourable
• Pain is well-controlled
• The boot can be modified to offload the toe

Overlay that with his recent groin history and a December fixture crunch, and “just before Christmas” becomes more of an optimistic target than a deadline. The key for Chelsea will be syncing toe healing with groin load so he doesn’t return with one injury “quiet” and the other ready to flare at the first three-games-in-seven-days run.

What happened?

Victor Osimhen returned from international duty with a moderate hamstring strain in the back of his left thigh – effectively a grade-2 tear. The club called it a “moderate-grade strain with bleeding in the left posterior muscle,” which is standard radiology language for a proper, mid-range hamstring injury.

Mechanism in football terms

Think high-speed run or hard deceleration, hamstrings working eccentrically in late swing to brake the lower leg, then a slight overload at full stretch – often under fatigue or after a stride adjustment. That late-swing, high-speed window is where most sprinter-type hamstring tears live.

• Also: Against the backdrop of Chelsea interest. Arteta blocks potential Lewis-Skelly exit

What the “bleeding” really means

The “bleeding” isn’t him “bleeding out into the leg”; it’s an internal bruise:

• Torn fibres = torn tiny blood vessels
• Blood + inflammatory fluid collect inside the muscle (intramuscular haematoma)
• On MRI it shows as a bright patch, confirming this is more than a tiny micro-strain and helping estimate lesion size and likely time out

It means more soreness and stiffness if you rush, not an automatic surgical case.

Timeframes for a grade-2

For this profile you’re realistically looking at around 4–6 weeks before you fully trust him with repeated high-speed sprints and long recovery runs. Jogging and tempo work can come earlier, but the decision point is when he can hit top speed, decelerate and repeat efforts in training without a next-day reaction – not when a calendar date arrives.

What’s confirmed?

Brentford have confirmed that Fábio Carvalho suffered an ACL injury in training, will undergo surgery and is out for the rest of the season. That immediately shifts the conversation from “weeks” to “season reset and long rebuild.”

Mechanism – what’s typical, not reported

The club haven’t described the exact training-ground moment. In football, though, ACL ruptures usually happen in a cut / pivot / deceleration action with the knee drifting into valgus (inward collapse), often with little or no contact. It’s fair to say his injury likely came from some version of that everyday movement pattern, without pretending we have the exact clip.

• Read also: Three key Manchester United players ruled out of the final match due to injury

Why it’s 9+ months, not a quick turnaround

• Once the ACL is reconstructed, the process is long and criteria-based:
• Early months: calm swelling, restore full extension, switch the quadriceps back on
• Middle block: heavy lower-limb strength, single-leg control, progressive running and change of direction
• Late phase: full football chaos – cutting, pressing, contact and fatigue – plus passing strength and hop-test benchmarks before clearance

For a young attacking Premier League player, ~9–12 months from surgery to genuine full return is a realistic expectation. He might see minutes a bit earlier, but the version of Carvalho Brentford really signed is more likely to appear in the season after he first steps back on the pitch.

If you like more stuff like this, give us a follow on all social media platforms @PhysioScout!

Les Bleus currently sit comfortably at the top of the Group D standings, having claimed victories in their opening two matches. Didier Deschamps' side won 2-0 away against Ukraine and 2-1 at home against Iceland as they bid to qualify for an eighth consecutive World Cup.

Meanwhile, the underdog Azerbaijan remains winless in their last 12 competitive matches, but they managed to earn a 1-1 draw against Ukraine in their last outing, which gives them a point in the group standings.

Just two weeks before his passing, a partnership was announced between Armani and Juventus. He was set to develop a collection of casual wear for the Turin club, becoming their official lifestyle partner until 2027.

Giorgio Armani x Juventus.Since 1994, Giorgio Armani has united sport and style. Next up: Juventus. The Men’s First Team will wear Armani off the pitch in the coming seasons.#GAxJuventus pic.twitter.com/m1ATp7tfdq

— Armani (@armani) August 21, 2025

The Armani brand was commissioned to design suits for players and staff of the Italian national teams. The collection included suits, coats, shirts, shoes, and accessories (cases, bags, belts, sunglasses) all emblazoned with the federation's insignia.

The #Azzurri 🇮🇹 wearing the new official @armani outfits at Coverciano. #VivoAzzurro #EAzzurri #EmporioArmani pic.twitter.com/Rzf18r8ZW4

— Italy ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (@Azzurri_En) March 19, 2019

• Read also: Kairat, Bodø/Glimt, Pafos, Union. Who are the debutants in the league phase of the Champions League?

A similar request came from Bayern Munich in 2014. Armani designed a collection of suits and travel outfits for the players and club executives. The Bavarian giants sported classic blue Armani suits during official events and Champions League matches.

The @FCBayern München team wearing their official #GiorgioArmani Made-to-Measure uniforms. pic.twitter.com/O50nd4HHo5

— Armani (@armani) September 24, 2014

Between 2007 and 2009, Armani worked on official business attire for Chelsea's directors and executives, periodically refreshing the wardrobe of the "Blues" hierarchy.

CHELSEA REWIND: Roberto Di Matteo, Gianluca Vialli, Carlo Cudicini & Gianfranco Zola with Giorgio Armani at Stamford Bridge. All suited & booted as preparations for the 2000 F.A Cup Final took place. 🇮🇹😎🏆 pic.twitter.com/x5lKsO4fWo

— Chris Wright 🏴 (@chriswrightzz) February 7, 2023

Armani paid special attention to the England national team, outfitting the Three Lions in striking off-field ensembles for Euro 2004 and the 2006 World Cup. The media buzzed as much about the team’s sharp looks as about their performances on the pitch.

Italian side Piacenza was among the first clubs to entrust their style to the Armani house. Although it didn’t make major headlines at the time, it marked the designer’s entry into the football world.

Napoli deserves a special mention, as they were the first to commission Armani not only for off-field suits but also for match kits. This collaboration led to the creation of the limited edition Diego Maradona jersey.

"Giorgio Armani"Por la camiseta que hizo el diseñador italiano para el Napoli en homenaje a Diego Armando Maradona. pic.twitter.com/B0m75pVSLh

— Tendencias Explorer (@PqTTExplorer) September 4, 2025

On their third attempt, the easternmost club in European competitions has finally reached the Champions League. Back in the 2005-2006 season, Kairat crashed out of the Champions League after losing to Slovakia’s Artmedia, and their next try came a full 16 years later. That time, Kairat fell to Crvena Zvezda but made their first appearance in the group stage of the Conference League, finishing fourth in their group.

This season, Kairat defeated Olimpija Ljubljana, KuPS, Slovan, and Celtic—remarkably, the Kazakh giants were unseeded in every round. Notably, Kairat is the first Champions League participant to have previously competed in Asian tournaments, having played in two editions of the Asian Cup Winners’ Cup.

Kairat has long been considered one of Kazakhstan’s football powerhouses, dating back to Soviet times. The team’s seventh-place finish in the Soviet Top League and a run to the cup semifinals remain the highest achievements among all Kazakh clubs.

An away match against Kairat is a serious test for Western European sides. For example, Celtic had to travel a staggering 5,500 kilometers for their match in Almaty!

Kairat Almaty are through to the league phase 💛🖤#UCL pic.twitter.com/MSACxWd7ye

— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) August 26, 2025

Unlike Kairat, Bodø/Glimt has long been on the radar of European football fans. This club, located north of the Arctic Circle, twice stumbled in the Champions League play-off round, losing to Dinamo Zagreb and Crvena Zvezda.

Back then, the path to the league phase required overcoming many opponents, but this season Bodø/Glimt only needed to defeat Sturm Graz—a task they accomplished comfortably.

The Norwegian side made headlines last season with a memorable Europa League run, becoming the first Norwegian club to reach a European semi-final. Along the way, Bodø/Glimt knocked out the likes of Beşiktaş, Porto, Olympiacos, and Lazio.

Bodø/Glimt secure a spot in the league phase 💪#UCL pic.twitter.com/obBbBlGTF2

— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) August 26, 2025

• See also: Stylish and not so much. What kits will Premier League teams wear in the 2025/2026 season?

Unlike the previous and next teams, Pafos are making their Champions League debut this season. And what a debut—knocking out Maccabi Tel Aviv, Dynamo Kyiv, and Crvena Zvezda. The Cypriot side didn’t lose a single one of their six qualifying games!

This is just Pafos’s second season in European competition. Last year, they reached the Round of 16 in the Conference League, so the European story of this team is still being written.

Pafos through to the #UCL league phase ✅ pic.twitter.com/lscRyQKNkJ

— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) August 26, 2025

And finally, the last debutant—though this time, no need for qualifiers—Belgium’s Union. You might recognize this team for their three consecutive seasons in the Europa League group stage. But in both the 2022-2023 and 2024-2025 campaigns, they dropped in after being eliminated in the third qualifying round of the Champions League.

The third qualifying round proved a stumbling block, with defeats to Rangers and Slavia Prague. Yet Union made a real impact in the Europa League, reaching the quarter-finals in 2022-2023.

Un magnifique hommage pour nos champions ! 💛💙 pic.twitter.com/ahcQCz2rOd

— Royale Union Saint-Gilloise (@UnionStGilloise) August 3, 2025

• Read also: "I don't care." Flick responds to Yamal's celebration controversy

Her real name is Nicole Denise Cucco, and she was born in Rosario, Argentina (yes, the same hometown as Barcelona and Argentina legend Lionel Messi) on August 25, 2000.

Публикация от @nicki.nicole

Her music career took off in 2018, and by 2019, she released a track that entered Billboard’s Argentina Hot 100 chart. In 2020, Nicki dropped the single "Mamichula," which has accumulated over 400 million views on YouTube.

Nicki’s massive popularity is also reflected in her social media following: on Instagram alone, she boasts 22 million followers, and her posts regularly rack up millions of likes.

Публикация от @nicki.nicole

It’s worth noting that Nicki is famous not only for her music but also for her high-profile romances. She previously dated fellow Argentine rappers Khea and Trueno.

Another headline-grabbing relationship was with Mexican singer Peso Pluma, which began in 2023 after they collaborated on a remix of his hit "Por Las Noches." But that romance ended in scandal—by February 2024, Peso Pluma was caught with another woman, and news of the infidelity made global headlines.

In the aftermath, Nicki posted an emotional message on her Instagram, stating that respect is a fundamental part of love, and announced she was leaving a relationship that lacked respect and care, confirming the breakup with her unfaithful boyfriend.

Peso Pluma and Nicki Nicole. pic.twitter.com/vpoLc65eat

— Peso Pluma USA (@DoblePCharts) February 4, 2024

After splitting from Pluma, Nicki kept a low profile and wasn’t seen publicly with anyone for a while. But in the autumn of 2024, rumors swirled about a possible romance with another football star—Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández.

The Argentine had recently separated from his wife Valentina Cervantes (the couple has two children), so speculation quickly linked this to a potential relationship with Nicki.

Reports claimed the two met at the Moby Dick nightclub in Buenos Aires at the end of October. There was no concrete evidence, but fans fueled the rumors, noticing Enzo’s goal celebration gesture, which they interpreted as a nod to Nicki.

@noticiasdelfutbolcanal Enzo Fernandez y Nicki Nicole festejos, canciones y dedicatorias entre ellos 😱 #enzofernandez #fernandez #argentina #chelsea #futbol #nickinicole #musica #leomessi #messi #lionelmessi #premierleague ♬ sonido original - Noticias del Futbol

Enzo would mimic a phone call with his fingers when celebrating—a gesture that fans connected to Nicki’s hit song "Llamame," which means "Call Me."

Despite the swirling speculation, Fernández soon reconciled with his wife, who later stated in an interview that there had been no infidelity on either side.

Now, it seems Nicki may have finally found her footballer—in Lamine Yamal. The Spanish star, who turned 18 just over a month ago, was previously linked to another older woman, 29-year-old Fati Vázquez. Yamal spent a few vacation days with her and other friends, but both denied any romantic involvement.

🚨 17 year old Lamine Yamal is spending his holidays with 30 year old Fati Vazquez. 👀 pic.twitter.com/ASBX4DKdTN

— Football Tweet ⚽ (@Football__Tweet) June 17, 2025

News of Nicki and Lamine’s relationship was first broken by journalist Javier de Hoyos, who, citing reliable sources, reported that the pair were seen kissing in a nightclub on July 24.

@javihoyosmartinez El romance secreto de Nicki Nicole y Lamine Yamal #lamineyamal #nickinicole #barça ♬ sonido original - JaviHoyos

Reportedly, their first meeting was at a party celebrating the footballer’s 18th birthday. Rumor has it there was instant chemistry, with playful banter and flirting, though nothing more was spotted at that time.

The couple have not commented publicly on their relationship, but their actions have only fueled the rumors. Nicki Nicole was spotted in the stands during one of Barcelona’s preseason friendlies against Como.

Argentinian singer Nicki Nicole is at the Joan Gamper wearing Lamine Yamal’s shirt.Lamine was also seen to have Nicki Nicole as wallpaper on his iPhone. 👀 pic.twitter.com/akWvjwLoeX

— Barça Universal (@BarcaUniversal) August 10, 2025

📸 - Lamine Yamal's rumoured girlfriend Nicki Nicole watching Lamine today from the stands. pic.twitter.com/9Hbr3BPSkY

— The Touchline | 𝐓 (@TouchlineX) August 10, 2025

Notably, she attended the stadium wearing a shirt with Yamal’s name on the back, further stoking the gossip about their romance. Yamal wasn’t shy either—fans noticed a photo of Nicki as his phone wallpaper.

Another piece of evidence: the two took a short trip together to Monaco. Fans saw Yamal and Nicki strolling the streets of Monte Carlo, and paparazzi later caught the couple arriving back at Barcelona airport.

@migremosjuntos Nicki Nicole y lamine yamal juntos en Monaco #nickinicole #lamineyamal #monaco ♬ sonido original - Camila Burgo

Публикация от Splash News (@splashnews)

In these photos, Nicki’s petite stature stood out. Next to her, Yamal appears especially tall—no surprise, as he stands at 180 cm, while reports suggest Nicki is just 145 cm tall.

The pair remain tight-lipped about the status of their relationship, though they’re not hiding their interactions. Yamal has started tagging Nicki in his social media posts. He recently posted an Instagram story with a screenshot from a game and captioned it, addressing Nicki: “@nicki.nicole when are you going to win???? 🥉”.

It seems the young couple aren’t ready to make their relationship official, but they’re also not trying to hide it. As for how serious or long-term this might be—only time will tell.

Armenian First League:

• Awande Asanda Wandile Mazibuko (FC Nikarm)
• Khunolakgadi Phukubje (MIKA Aschtarak)
• Lebogang Leshoko Matlala (FC Nikarm)
• Mmeli Terrance Mhlongo (FC Nikarm)
• Njabulo Dlamini (FC Nikarm)
• Phaume Dimpho Phasha (FC Nikarm)
• Swelihle Kabelo Sigudla (MIKA Aschtarak)
• Thato Motanyane (MIKA Aschtarak)

Bundesliga:

• Antonio Van Wyk, Yusuf Maart (both - SV Ried)

Other Austrian leagues:

• Brandon Valent (Union Leonding)
• Darko Anicic (Schattendorf)
• Elvin Kanyerere (Liezen)

Jupiler Pro League:

• Shandre Campbell (FC Brügge)

Challenger Pro League:

• Kurt Abrahams (SK Beveren)

3de Nationale VV B:

• Keith Groeneveld (City Pirates)

Vtora Liga:

• Marko Veselinovic (Sevilevo)

• Yurie Mortimer (NK Gr. Kotoriba)

Cyprus League:

• Luther Singh (AEL Limassol)
• Mihlali Mayambela (Aris Limassol)
• Siboniso Mtshali (Karsiyaka SK)

Superliga:

• Gift Links (Aarhus GF)

Other Danish leagues:

• Luka September (Brabrand IF)

Premier League:

• Lyle Foster (FC Burnley)

Championship:

• Luke Le Roux (Portsmouth)

League One:

• Kgaogelo Chauke (Burton Albion)

National League:

• Christian Scott (Wealdstone)

Other English leagues:

• Dean Furman (Rylands)
• Dino Visser (Leek Town FC)
• Darren Holden (Nelson FC)
• Eddie Allsopp (Lewes)
• Khanya Leshabela (Bedford Town)
• Kgosi Ntlhe (Banbury)
• Roraigh Browne (Watford U21)
• Siph Mdlalose (Alton FC)
• Sisa Tuntulwana (Gainsborough)
• Thabang Dube (Rugby Boro)

• Kemal Ozturk (FC Zealot)

Ligue 2:

• Lebogang Phiri (Guingamp)

Erovnuli Liga 2:

• Siyanda Mathenjwa (Spaeri)

Other Georgian leagues:

• Khotso Marera (Varketili II)

2. Bundesliga

• Ime Okon (Hannover 96)

3. Liga:

• Boipelo Mashigo (Unterhaching)

Bayernliga Nord:

• Björn Fröhlich (Regensburg II)

Oberliga Westfalen:

• Dan Tshimanga (ASC 09 Dortmund)

U19 DFB-Nachwuchsliga:

• Frederick Drew (Offenbach U19)

Landesliga Mittelrhein Staffel 2:

• Shuaib Sulaiman (Arnoldsweiler)

Other German leagues:

• Bennedict Mpofu (SG Grün-Weiß)
• Harry Coleman (RuWa Dellwig)
• Martin Karkossa (Großbeeren)
• Mpilo Majombozi (FC Erfurt-Nord)
• Sihle Mzimela (SC Hainberg)
• Tresor Fankam Teamo (Neuruppin II)

• Tumelo Khoza (Phönix Bellheim)

  Read also: Who is Abdeslam Ouaddou? All you need to know about the new Orlando Pirates coach

Besta deild:

• Cafú Phete (Vestri)

Other Icelandic leagues:

• Karabo Mgiba (Isbjörninn)

I-League:

• Wayde Lekay (Ch. Brothers)

Other Indian leagues:

• Siyanda Ngubo (Forca Kochi FC)

• BJ Banda (Letterkenny)
• Katlego Mashigo (Tolka Rovers)

Liga Leumit:

• Faiz Abrahams (Hapoel Kfar Saba)

• Christos Retsos (Gioiosa)

• Kamohelo Hoala (KF Trepca)
• Lethabo Mashifana (Mitrovica)
• Mathuba Zulu (Mitrovica)
• Nkosikhona Dube (Mitrovica)
• Zakhele Nyembe (Mitrovica)

• Khayelihle Zikhali (FK Nadruvis)

National Amateur League I:

• Jordan Sampson (Qormi FC)
• Tercious Malepe (Balzan FC)

O21 Divisie 2 Fall:

• Michael Dokunmu (Vitesse U21)
• Qiniso Ngobese (PEC Zwolle U21)

Derde Divisie A:

• Nana Ntuli (Excelsior '31)

Other Dutch leagues:

• Daniel Jordan (Kon. HFC U19)
• Mike Veenstra (CVV Germanicus)

National League - North:

• DeAndre Vollenhoven (Auckland Utd.)

National League - South:

• Lyle Matthysen (Cashmere Tech)
• Nathan Dix (FC Twenty 11)
• Travis Graham (Christchurch)

Other New Zealand leagues:

• Caylem Nelson (Manukau)
• Dastgeer Lai-Sai (Manukau)
• Joshua Jeftha (Papakura City AFC)

Eliteserien:

• Samukelo Kabini (Molde)

• Melchisedec Tshwale (Polonia Głubczyce)

• Nhlanhla Nxumalo (Moravia Morawica)

Liga Portugal:

• Yaya Sithole (Gil Vicente)
• Kobamelo Kodisang (Tondela)

Liga Revelação U23:

• Diego Freitas (Estrela U23)

Other Portuguese leagues:

• Fletcher Lowe (Estoril U19)
• Khumbula Duma (Com. Indústria)
• Mhleli Mabuza (Louletano)
• Mhleli Mleya (Monte do Trigo)
• Nqoba Mdladla (GDR Canaviais)
• Samukelo Mthiyane (GD Portel)
• Sandile Masondo (GD Portel)
• Sibusiso Shibane (Oliveira Frades)

SuperLiga:

• Siyabonga Ngezana (FCSB)

Scottish Premiership:

• Aphelele Teto (Livingstion)

Scottish Lowland Football League:

• Keaghan Jacobs (Gala Fairydean)

Highland Football League:

• Rogan Read (Deveronvale FC)

• Bulelani Mabusela (Nacina Ves)
• Khaylihle Rasmeni (Nacina Ves)
• Rudzani Rambuda (Nacina Ves)
• Sibonelo Mpanza (Tatra Sokolany)

Primera Federación - Grupo II:

• Lesedi Steve (Torremolinos)

Other Spanish leagues:

• Muhammad Carrim (AD Alcorcón B)
• Tato Lesoma (Loja CD)

Superettan:

• Waylon Renecke (Orgtyte)

Ettan Södra:

• Kgotso Masangane (Oskarshamns AIK)

• Lars Veldwijk (Gulf United FC)
• Rodwell Bezuidenhout (Reg. Sports)
• Zack Chislett (Al-Qabila)

Major League Soccer:

• Bongokuhle Hlongwane (Minnesota)
• Olwethu Makhanya (Philadelphia)
• Tsiki Ntsabeleng (Dallas)

USL Championship:

• Darren Smith (Detroit City)
• Jamie Webber (Tulsa)

USL League One:

• Nazeem Bartman (Forward Madison)
• Wynand Wessels (Red Wolves)
• Tumi Moshobane (Charlotte Independence)

MLS Next Pro:

• Brody Williams (Chicago II)
• Geni Kanyane (Chicago II)

Other US leagues:

• Ford Hunt (Sav. Clovers)
• Dillon Fransch (LW Blue Raiders)
• Itumeleng Magadlela (Orlando C. U23)
• Jonathan Greenfield (Cedar Rapids)
• Kyle Jansen (Syracuse)
• Lethabo Kedijang (FORO SC)
• Marco Afonso (FC Arizona)
• Nicholas Ladeira (Oral Roberts)
• Phila Dlamini (Texoma FC)
• Robin Windvogel (Cumberland)
• Thaabit Baartman (Ventura County)
• Tererai Chawirah (Appalachian FC)
• Tyrese De Bruin (SVSU Cardinals)
• Ujaun McDonald (Twin City)

Arsenal

The Gunners’ home kit is standard fare—a classic red and black shirt. The real intrigue is in the away kit, which features dark tones and an eye-catching pattern.

Aston Villa

Nothing particularly stands out in Aston Villa's kits either. The home jersey sticks to the classic claret and blue, while the away kit comes in a deep purple shade.

Burnley

The Premier League newcomers have surprised with an impressive away kit in turquoise hues and a unique pattern. The home shirt remains very traditional.

Bournemouth

This season, Bournemouth are going with stripes. The home kit features the traditional red and black, while the away kit opts for black and blue stripes.

Brighton

Brighton are sticking with tradition for their home strip, but are letting their creative side out for the away kit.

Brentford

Brentford are also experimenting with their away kit, for the first time featuring just the bee emblem instead of the full club crest. The home kit sees no major changes.

West Ham

Nothing particularly eye-catching in the Hammers’ kits this season—plain shirts with no patterns.

Wolverhampton

Both Wolves kits are also solid colors, but they're adorned with a distinctive pattern that adds some flair.

Crystal Palace

The FA Cup holders have paid special attention to their away kit, branding it “Eagle Gold.”

Liverpool

The English champions have given their kit a slight refresh, but nothing drastic. Notably, Liverpool will wear a commemorative patch on their chest all season in memory of the late Diogo Jota.

Leeds

The newly promoted side has focused on the sleeves of their home kit, while the away strip is jazzed up with a stylish pattern.

Manchester City

The Cityzens have added a bold blue stripe to their home kit, which otherwise maintains its signature sky blue dominance.

Manchester United

The Red Devils’ kits see little change from last season.

Nottingham Forest

Forest have really put effort into their away kit, which boasts a beautiful pattern.

Newcastle

At the time of publication, Newcastle have only unveiled their home kit.

Sunderland

Sunderland’s away kit is definitely worth a mention, featuring a retro logo and an overall sharp design.

Tottenham

The standout feature for Tottenham is that their away kit is presented with the Europa League winners’ patch.

Fulham

At the time of writing, the Cottagers have only revealed their home kit.

Chelsea

According to the club, Chelsea’s away kit is inspired by the Hungarian shirts of the 1970s.

Everton

No major changes in Everton’s kits either.

Photos courtesy of club press services.

We should start with the Sevilla legend, who died on June 1, 2019, under circumstances eerily similar to Jota’s. A Spanish road, another blown tire. But Reyes was speeding at 187 kilometers per hour.

After the tragedy, Reyes’ son was taken under the wing of Real Madrid and its president Florentino Pérez, and soon even trained with the first team of “Los Blancos.”

Unfortunately, Spanish roads have claimed the lives of many footballers. On April 2, 1992, tragedy struck when Real Madrid fans’ idol Juanito lost his life.

He was part of the great Real Madrid team of the 1970s and 1980s, winning five La Liga titles and two UEFA Cups, though the European Cup eluded them. The former striker died after his playing days were over, returning home to Mérida after watching Real Madrid face Torino.

The most outstanding Polish footballer of the 20th century, a bronze medalist at the 1974 World Cup and a member of the World XI that same year. Because of the Iron Curtain, Kazimierz Deyna’s achievements went largely unnoticed by many, but his legacy endures.

Deyna also died on the road, after his career had ended, at 41 years old. On September 1, 1989, while driving on a California highway, his car crashed into a truck. Deyna died at the scene, and traces of alcohol were found in his blood.

September 1989 proved to be truly dark. Just two days after Deyna’s death, another legend’s life ended—Juventus icon Gaetano Scirea. He had traveled to Poland to scout Górnik Zabrze, one of the Bianconeri’s UEFA Cup opponents.

The car carrying the Italian legend had a head-on collision with a parked fuel truck. The gasoline canisters caught fire, and all the passengers except for Górnik’s representative perished at the scene.

• See also: In memory of Diogo Jota. How he will be remembered

While Hristo Stoichkov is considered Bulgaria’s most legendary footballer, public opinion in his homeland differs. In every poll, forward Georgi Asparuhov comes out on top—he died at the same age as Jota.

At just 22, Benfica tried to sign him, but the communist authorities blocked the move. So Asparuhov continued to shine at home, becoming a Levski legend. On June 30, 1971, a car carrying Georgi and his teammate Nikola Kotkov crashed into a truck that had pulled out from a side road at high speed. More than half a million people attended Asparuhov’s funeral.

Sadly, the youngest of those remembered here. The Belgian youth international midfielder’s life ended at just 20 years old. On January 10, 2015, the driver of the car carrying Malanda lost control due to poor weather, sending the vehicle into a ditch.

Malanda was thrown from the back seat and died instantly. Soon after, Wolfsburg retired his number 19 shirt, posthumously.

The death of Czechia striker Josef Šural was the result of a tragic set of circumstances. After a match against Kayserispor, the Alanyaspor forward and several teammates opted not to take the team bus and instead hired a minivan.

The journey was long and at night, so there were two drivers. Both fell asleep, and the minivan veered off the road and overturned. The main impact was on the right side, where Šural was sitting. He was rescued, but on April 29, 2019, he died in hospital from his injuries.

Jota was a product of Gondomar in Portugal, even though he was born in Porto. At 17, he moved to the youth squad of Paços de Ferreira, where he took his first steps in professional football. His talent quickly caught the attention of top clubs, and in the summer of 2016, Jota signed for Atlético Madrid.

But under Diego Simeone at the "Colchoneros," the forward wasn't given a chance and found himself loaned out—first to Porto, where he got a taste of Champions League action, and then to Wolverhampton. The Wolves, impressed by Jota's abilities, bought out his contract from Atlético for €14 million after a year-long loan.

Jota, who racked up 23 goal involvements in 44 Championship matches for Wolves, didn’t fade away in the Premier League either—scoring nine goals and providing five assists in 33 games.

In the 2018/2019 season, the Portuguese forward was one of the architects of Wolves’ miracle campaign, as the newly-promoted side finished seventh and secured a spot in the second qualifying round of the Europa League. In that European run, Nuno Espírito Santo’s squad made plenty of noise, reaching the quarterfinals before being halted by Sevilla.

Overall, Jota tallied 22 goal contributions in 48 matches during the 2019/2020 season, no wonder he caught the eye of Europe’s elite. In September 2020, Liverpool snapped him up for €44 million.

In Liverpool, injuries prevented him from fully unleashing his potential, but whenever he stepped onto the pitch, he gave everything to help the team. He finished with 65 goals in 182 appearances for the Reds, along with 26 assists.

"Ohhhh he wears the number 20!" 🔊 pic.twitter.com/oEERXG1Kl3

— Liverpool FC (@LFC) August 19, 2024

Jota made his debut for the Portugal national team while still at Wolves and twice lifted the Nations League trophy. Fittingly, the final of that tournament against Spain turned out to be his last match.

Together with Diogo, his younger brother André Silva also perished in that fateful accident. André’s career never reached the same heights—he came through Porto’s ranks but played for several second-tier Portuguese clubs.

Diogo leaves behind a wife, whom he married only on June 22, and three children...

With that in mind, our team has prepared a look at what Kaizer Chiefs might look like next season.

Nasreddine Nabi employed a 4-2-3-1 formation throughout last season. A double pivot and a solid midfield core are crucial elements in his setup. He also prefers a classic number nine striker tasked with finishing chances and scoring goals.

Notably, in the final round, Kaizer Chiefs lined up in a 3-4-1-2 formation, but that appeared to be a one-off move. In the South African Cup final, Nabi reverted to his favored system and managed to achieve the desired result.

• Read more: Kaizer Chiefs marketing director comments on the club’s transfer budget

In that final, Chiefs had less possession and focused on defending. However, just days earlier, in a league match against Orlando Pirates, they held more of the ball and tried to play on the front foot.

That contrast highlighted Nabi’s tactical flexibility. In the league, Chiefs often played proactively, taking the initiative in attack. But in the latter stages of the South African Cup, they were content to cede possession and play defensively. They adopted a similar approach in the semifinal.

Despite aiming to play attacking football in most of their South African league matches, Kaizer Chiefs struggled with efficiency in front of goal. In none of their last ten Betway Premiership fixtures did they score more than once.

• Coming soon: Kaizer Chiefs to unveil new kit

Over the entire season, they scored just 25 goals—an underwhelming tally compared to the league’s top three. Every team that finished in the top five scored over 30 goals, while the champions and runners-up netted over 40 in 28 rounds.

There were also defensive issues: 32 goals conceded in 28 games. Only one team conceded more, another the same amount, and three others let in 31.

It’s clear which areas Kaizer Chiefs need to strengthen to become more competitive—and they’ve started doing just that. In a single day, the Amakhosi signed three players: a defender, a midfielder, and a striker. Each line received reinforcements.

Moreover, these are unlikely to be the last signings of the offseason. Chiefs are still monitoring several players, including central defender Thibang Phete and young forward Clement Mzize.

• Third in a row! Nasreddine Nabi signs another player from English football

This summer, Nasreddine Nabi will have more financial backing, and Kaizer Chiefs currently boast one of the highest budgets in the Betway Premier League. The manager’s call for reinforcements has been heard and approved. In addition to the transfers already completed, more are expected.

Based on all this, here is a possible starting XI for Kaizer Chiefs next season:

Bruce Bvuma – Inacio Miguel, Thibang Phete, Nkaniso Shinga, Bradley Cross – Ethan Chislett, Gastón Sirino, Pule Mmodi, Mduduzi Shabalala, Yusuf Maart – Flávio Silva

There’s no doubt that Kaizer Chiefs will do everything in their power to avoid repeating last season and aim for a top-three finish. Both management and coaching staff are fully aware of what’s at stake. Beyond the transfer market, the club will invest part of its summer budget in a training camp in the Netherlands.

• Read more: Nabi was heard: Kaizer Chiefs increase budget for 2025/2026 Betway Premiership campaign

Their European tour will cost between 22 and 25 million rand—significantly more than last year’s camp in Turkey. They’re set to play five matches: four against Eredivisie clubs and one against a team from the Dutch second division.

Kaizer Chiefs are making serious preparations and strengthening their squad to deliver better football and improved results. And there’s one thing that fuels hope—their South African Cup triumph.

García is a product of Espanyol's academy, where he climbed through every youth level and made his senior debut in 2021. Until 2024, he had played just nine matches, but then made a stunning breakthrough, becoming a key player and one of the revelations of the 2024/25 La Liga season.

• Record number of saves

Last season, García played all 38 league matches, making 145 saves—the best mark in La Liga—often rescuing his team in crucial moments. Joan single-handedly hauled Espanyol to 14th place, saving the club from relegation.

• Goals prevented

García conceded seven goals fewer than expected according to PSxG—best in La Liga and eighth among all goalkeepers in Europe's top five leagues.

• High save percentage

74% save rate—third-best in the league. On average, García made 3.84 saves per match.

• Penalty-stopping ability

During the season, García saved two out of six penalties, and in every case correctly guessed the direction of the shot.

Joan Garcia made more saves than any other GK in LaLiga last season (145). He also had the best save percentage out of the top 10 goalkeepers with the most saves in 2024/25 (73.71%). 🧤 pic.twitter.com/tDfNeCDZRU

— Squawka (@Squawka) June 20, 2025

• Physical attributes and reflexes

García boasts long limbs and stands at 191 cm. His lightning-fast reflexes are particularly outstanding: his body reacts to shots almost instantly, allowing him to make miraculous saves in seemingly hopeless situations.

• Commanding on crosses and interceptions

He reads aerial balls well and is confident coming off his line, reducing threats from set pieces and wide deliveries.

• Footwork

García is precise with both short and medium-range passes, able to initiate attacks through midfield, and isn't afraid to draw opponents into a press before playing a risky ball. His short passing accuracy exceeds 90%.

• Long passes and throws

Although Espanyol rarely built from the back, García was reliable with long balls (232 successful long passes over the season) and powerful throws, which could become a new weapon for Barcelona's counter-attacks.

• Leadership and mentality

García is a hardworking, disciplined player—first to arrive and last to leave training. His commitment and hunger to improve have been praised by coaches, including Espanyol legend Thomas N'Kono.

• Rapid adaptation and progress

Despite a late debut at senior level, he went from backup to one of La Liga's top keepers in just a single season.

• Catalan roots

García is a product of Catalan football, which should ease his integration at Barcelona.

pic.twitter.com/ZaBFFsWCA9

— Mack (@fcbelias1) June 18, 2025

Statistical platforms (such as WhoScored) don't list any glaring weaknesses for García. However, despite his excellent short and medium-range distribution, his long passes can still lack consistency in accuracy.

One key risk is psychological pressure. Moving to Barcelona is a massive step forward but also a huge challenge. He'll face fierce competition from Marc-André ter Stegen, one of the world's best with his feet and reading of the game, not to mention a club legend. Any mistake from García will immediately spark criticism and comparisons with ter Stegen.

.@SantiNollaMD: "Barça should be able to sign Joan García without having to tell Ter Stegen anything. The problem is that the German has already demanded to be the starter, and it worked with Claudio Bravo. But things have changed. Now, he is the Bravo to the young Joan García." pic.twitter.com/ugxR5pHKmK

— Barça Universal (@BarcaUniversal) June 11, 2025

García is an ideal fit for the club's philosophy—a young Catalan capable of quickly blending into the squad.

If he manages to adapt swiftly, he could become Barcelona's number one goalkeeper for the next decade. Otherwise, he risks being overshadowed by ter Stegen or sent out on loan for more playing time.

Joan García: "I'm very happy and eager to play for Barça." pic.twitter.com/WAywbDD7SC

— Barça Universal (@BarcaUniversal) June 19, 2025

Joan García is a modern goalkeeper with outstanding shot-stopping ability, excellent footwork, composure under pressure, and clear leadership potential. His weaknesses are more like fine details—areas that can be refined with more experience.

With recent developments in mind, our team has put together a projection of what Orlando Pirates might look like next season.

Ouaddou's most recent managerial role was with Marumo Gallants, another club competing in South Africa’s Premier Division. With them, he managed 12 matches, winning five, drawing four, and losing three. Notably, he began his stint at Gallants with a win over Orlando Pirates. He also led the team to the semi-finals of the South African Cup.

• Read also: Who is Abdeslam Ouaddou? All you need to know about the new Orlando Pirates coach

Throughout those 12 matches, Ouaddou deployed two tactical systems: the 4-2-3-1 and the 4-1-4-1. He finished the season using the latter, going unbeaten in his final run—three draws and one win.

For Orlando Pirates, this won’t be a drastic change. The team often operated with a 4-2-3-1 formation last season, occasionally morphing it into a 4-3-3.

In his matches, Ouaddou frequently adapted to his opponents and adjusted his game plan accordingly. There were fixtures where Marumo Gallants dominated possession and tempo, and others where they ceded control.

However, Orlando Pirates operate at a different level. They’re the Premier Division runners-up, cup winners, and semi-finalists in the CAF Champions League. The Buccaneers aim to play dominant football, raising the key question: what approach will Ouaddou take? Will he follow in José Riveiro’s footsteps, or impose his own vision? We’ll only know once the season unfolds.

Orlando Pirates clearly boast a stronger squad than Marumo Gallants and rank among the best in South Africa—and the region as a whole. Yet there’s always room for improvement, and recent official news confirms the Pirates have secured the signings of winger Tshepang Moremi, defender Tshepo Mashiloane, and midfielder Sifiso Mbule.

• Also: OFFICIAL: Orlando Pirates unveil new midfielder

There are also persistent rumours about a promising young full-back from South Africa’s U20 national team, Neo Rapoo. Additionally, the Pirates are reportedly interested in Angolan striker Depu, though no concrete talks have emerged yet.

But it’s not all good news for fans. Relebohile Mofokeng is currently in talks with several clubs in Israel and could make a summer move abroad.

• “He can play anywhere.” Relebohile Mofokeng’s father speaks on his son’s future

Taking all this into account, our team has prepared a potential starting lineup for Orlando Pirates under Abdeslam Ouaddou next season:

• Sifo Chaine – Dean van Rooyen, Tshepo Mashiloane, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Neo Rapoo – Sifiso Mbule, Thalente Mbatha, Tshepang Moremi, Mohau Nkota, Patrick Maswanganyi – Depu

Naturally, this is a preliminary projection and will likely evolve depending on transfer activity and developments throughout the summer.

As with any such appointment or major news, opinions are divided. Some fans welcome the new coach, while others view it as a mistake, believing the club’s leadership has blundered. Others argue that Rulani Mokwena would have been a better choice for the role.

The concerns from the fanbase are entirely valid—change can be unsettling, especially after the success achieved under the previous manager. However, Orlando Pirates are making active moves in the transfer market and are clearly looking to strengthen the squad. The ultimate verdict will become clear only as the new season progresses.

Let’s start with Ouaddou’s playing career. While not quite a superstar, he certainly wasn’t a journeyman either. He began his football journey at French club Nancy, where he made his professional debut on the big stage.

Three seasons across France’s top two divisions did not go unnoticed. Even though Nancy spent the 2000/2001 season in what’s now called Ligue 2, the 22-year-old defender was snapped up by English side Fulham for €3.3 million.

Orlando Pirates' new coach is no stranger to the highest level 💪EPL - 21 apps Ligue 1 - 185 apps He also played in the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Cup and went to four AFCONS 🇲🇦Put some respect on Abdeslam Ouaddou's name 🔥#AirMobile #BetwayPrem #CastleLager pic.twitter.com/5D055nOTPZ

— SoccerBeat (@SoccerBeatZA) June 24, 2025

However, right after moving to Craven Cottage, he found it tough to cement a place in the Cottagers’ starting XI, managing only eight Premier League appearances in his debut season.

The following campaign was a little better, as he became a first-choice defender for Fulham in the now-defunct Intertoto Cup. Ouaddou and the Cottagers triumphed, earning a spot in the UEFA Cup. When the Moroccan was on the pitch, Fulham got past Croatian sides Hajduk and Dinamo Zagreb, but he missed the tie against Hertha Berlin, and the club’s European journey ended there.

In the summer of 2003, Ouaddou left Craven Cottage, first joining Rennes on loan, and a year later making the move permanent. He stayed with the French side until the summer of 2006, before heading to Greek giants Olympiacos.

He wasn’t a regular starter in Piraeus, but that’s where he reached the pinnacle of his career: his only trophy (the Greek championship) and his only 90 minutes in the Champions League—against Valencia, no less.

After leaving Olympiacos in the summer of 2007, Ouaddou’s days at the top level were over: he spent three more years in France with Valenciennes and Nancy, two and a half years in Qatar, and then a brief two-week return to Nancy. It was with his boyhood club that, on January 16, 2013, Ouaddou hung up his boots for good.

• See also: Women's Africa Cup of Nations 2024: Why is it held in 2025, participants, stadiums, and main favorites

Despite club setbacks, the defender was in demand in his homeland, even if 24 of his 58 international caps were in friendlies. It’s worth noting that in the 2000s and early 2010s—Ouaddou’s era—the Moroccan national team was a far cry from today’s global force.

Fans waited 20 long years for a World Cup appearance until 2018, but with Ouaddou in the squad, Morocco achieved its best Africa Cup of Nations result since 1976—finishing runners-up in 2004.

After retiring in January 2013, Ouaddou spent a year and a half in footballing limbo before starting his coaching journey in the summer of 2014 at Nancy’s academy.

Just a year later, he was offered the assistant coach role for Nancy’s reserve team under Sebastien Hanriot, a position he held for four years. In 2018/19, he combined these duties with coaching at the academy.

Ouaddou left Nancy in the summer of 2019 and, six months later, joined the coaching staff of his former Valenciennes teammate Djamel Belmadi, then in charge of Algeria’s national team.

However, by the end of June he had to leave the national team, and by October 2020, Ouaddou landed his first head coach job back home with Moroccan club Mouloudia.

His managerial debut didn’t go to plan: in six matches at the helm, he suffered five defeats and managed just one draw. After the New Year of 2021, he was dismissed.

Things improved in the uniquely challenging Benin league, where he managed Loto-Popo from 2021 to 2023. In his final season, he finished just two points shy of the title.

January 2024 brought a new chapter—this time in DR Congo with the capital club Vita Club. In 18 matches, he led the team to five wins, seven draws, and six losses, but was sacked in September after a 0–2 CAF Confederation Cup defeat to... Stellenbosch.

Ironically, that defeat to a South African side put him on the local radar, and by March 2025, he was offered a job at Marumo Gallants.

In his very first match, he faced his future club—Orlando Pirates—and pulled off a shock 2–0 win. The Naturena side, however, got their revenge in the cup semi-final, edging out a 1–0 victory.

Across 12 matches in charge of Gallants, he suffered only three defeats. Besides the aforementioned loss to Riveiro’s side, he was beaten by Sekhukhune United and, once again, Stellenbosch.

☠️ @orlandopirates technical team:🇲🇦 Abdeslam Ouaddou - Head Coach🇿🇦 Mandla Ncikazi - Assistant Coach🇿🇦 Rayaan Jacobs - Assistant Coach🇿🇦 Tyron Damons - Goalkeeper Coach🇹🇳 Helmi Gueldich - S&C CoachPre-season begins on 27 June ⏳#OnceAlways pic.twitter.com/c4GeyuxoyR

— Lorenz Köhler (@Lorenz_KO) June 23, 2025

South African football gives us a clearer picture of Ouaddou as a coach. At Marumo Gallants, he often deployed a 4-3-2-1 formation with two holding midfielders, but in a famous win over Kaizer Chiefs, he pushed one defensive midfielder higher, switching to a system with two central midfielders.

Is Ouaddou the right fit for Orlando Pirates? Tactically, yes—Jose Riveiro used a similar setup. But does he have enough experience to handle the pressure in South Africa, not to mention leading a team in the CAF Champions League? Only time will tell.

Back in 2011, the new Qatari owners set an ambitious target for the Parisian club: win the Champions League. To achieve that, PSG signed superstars like Ibrahimović, Cavani, Neymar, Messi, Mbappé and many more over the years.

But PSG's best result remained the 2019/20 Champions League final, where they lost to Bayern Munich. Only in their first season without their galaxy of stars did PSG finally capture the ultimate European trophy, demolishing Inter 5-0 in the final.

Pour l'Histoire 📸 pic.twitter.com/AVNPc2E9iR

— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_inside) May 31, 2025

The North London club clinched the Europa League title in the 2024/25 campaign. In the final of Europe's second most prestigious club competition, the Spurs edged out Manchester United 1-0.

Tottenham's trophy drought had lasted since 2008, when they won the English League Cup. Since then, the Spurs lost four finals, including the decisive 2018/19 Champions League showdown.

SONNY 🤩🏆 https://t.co/3WbkDg90Dj pic.twitter.com/s8i4dPDCFL

— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) May 28, 2025

It wasn't just in Europe that a newcomer captured the continent's most prestigious trophy. In 2024/25, Egyptian side Pyramids won the CAF Champions League for the first time in their history. In the two-legged final, the Egyptians overcame South Africa's Mamelodi Sundowns.

أبــــطــــال إفــــريــــقــــيــــا 🌍😍🏆⚽️ @CAFCLCC_ar#Pyramids | #PFCMSDFC | #TotalEnergiesCAFCL | #ملوك_الكرة pic.twitter.com/gmMD3uEkfz

— Pyramids FC (@pyramidsfc) June 1, 2025

Another London club lifted a major trophy for the first time in its 120-year history. In the FA Cup final, Oliver Glasner's side, thanks to a goal from Eberechi Eze, stunned Manchester City 1-0 in a result for the ages.

It is finally here 😍Access All Over: The FA Cup Final#CPFC

— Crystal Palace F.C. (@CPFC) June 5, 2025

After defeating Liverpool 2-1, Newcastle ended a 70-year trophy drought. The last time the Magpies claimed a major domestic trophy was in 1955, when they won the FA Cup.

BREAKING: Newcastle United beat Liverpool to win Carabao Cup - ending 70-year wait for domestic trophy.https://t.co/NREtPF81Lv📺 Sky 501, Virgin 602, Freeview 233 and YouTube pic.twitter.com/E1DmbmlwHF

— Sky News (@SkyNews) March 16, 2025

Platense only finished 13th out of 30 in the regular stage, but fought their way into the playoffs. There, the club from Florida knocked out River Plate, San Lorenzo and Huracán, securing their first national title in 120 years of existence.

¡𝐒𝐎𝐌𝐎𝐎𝐎𝐎𝐒 𝐋𝐎𝐒𝐒𝐒 𝐂𝐀𝐌𝐏𝐄𝐄𝐄𝐄𝐄𝐎𝐎𝐎𝐎𝐎𝐎𝐍𝐄𝐄𝐄𝐄𝐒 𝐃𝐄𝐋 𝐅𝐔́𝐓𝐁𝐎𝐋 𝐀𝐑𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐎ⵑ 🤎🤍🏆 pic.twitter.com/AruXwaVPzC

— Club Atlético Platense (@caplatense) June 1, 2025

In the Coppa Italia final, Vincenzo Italiano's men toppled AC Milan 1-0. This trophy was Bologna's first in 51 years. The club also set a record for the longest gap between cup wins (from 1974 to 2025).

Celebrations 51 years in the making 🎉🏆#WeAreOne pic.twitter.com/MegbNQzDFU

— Bologna FC 1909 (@BolognaFC1909en) May 26, 2025

A 4-2 win over Arminia in the final brought the Swabians their first trophy in 18 years. The club's last title was the 2007 Bundesliga crown. Stuttgart hadn't won the German Cup since 1997.

Pokalsiege und Torjägerkanonen, Stiftungsarbeit und Ehrenamt: Auf und abseits des Platzes liegt eine bewegte Saison hinter dem VfB. Hier ist Teil vier unseres Saisonrückblicks. 🔙#VfB pic.twitter.com/ShdjuDweg4

— VfB Stuttgart | Pokalsieger 2025 (@VfB) June 5, 2025

The modest club from Deventer last lifted a major trophy in the 1932/33 season. After a 92-year drought, Go Ahead Eagles triumphed over AZ in a dramatic penalty shootout and claimed their first ever national cup.

🏆 𝐀𝐥𝐥𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐤𝐞𝐫𝐝𝐨𝐞𝐥𝐩𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧 𝐯𝐚𝐧 𝐝𝐢𝐭 𝐬𝐞𝐢𝐳𝐨𝐞𝐧 De rest is geschiedenis 😉 pic.twitter.com/fi6zVU8gha

— Go Ahead Eagles 🦅 (@GAEagles) May 25, 2025

This year the club celebrated its 128th anniversary. With 12 league titles, Union trails only Anderlecht and Club Brugge in Belgium. But all those triumphs came in the early 20th century. Before 2025, Union Saint-Gilloise's last league crown was in 1935—a staggering 90 years ago.

After exactly 90 years, @UnionStGilloise are back on their perch ✨#jupilerproleague pic.twitter.com/qaMv0FwSGf

— Pro League (@ProLeagueBE) May 28, 2025

Compared to others, Rijeka had won the national title relatively recently—in 2017. But after that, Dinamo Zagreb claimed seven consecutive Croatian championships. Only in 2025 did Rijeka finally break the capital club's stranglehold.

🔙Nekad i sad 🆕#ZajednosmoRijeka #HNKRijeka pic.twitter.com/ju3D4m65Ee

— NK Rijeka (@NKRijeka) May 31, 2025

Here's an interesting fact about the club from Orhei. Milsami was founded in 2005 and won their first national title in 2015. Supporters had to wait exactly ten more years for a second "golden" season.

FC Milsami Orhei 🇲🇩 est sacré 🏆 champion de la SuperLiga 2024-2025 Moldave 🇲🇩.Voici les Africains qui ont contribué à ce sacre :Christopher Nwaeze 🇳🇬Ime Ndon 🇳🇬Micheal Stephen 🇳🇬Vitus Amougui 🇨🇲Sibiry Keita 🇲🇱Abdoul Yoda Razack 🇧🇫Nabil Khali 🇫🇷 🇲🇦Hennos Asmelash 🇳🇱 🇪🇷 pic.twitter.com/lBFOiK0PVK

— Foot d'Afrique (@Foot_dafrique) May 23, 2025

The club was formed in 2014 from the merger of AEP and AEK Kouklia. Eleven years later, Pafos captured their first ever league gold medals.

𝗜𝗧’𝗦 𝗢𝗩𝗘𝗥, 𝗛𝗜𝗦𝗧𝗢𝗥𝗬 𝗠𝗔𝗗𝗘! Pafos FC are officially the 𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐌𝐏𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒 of Cyprus! 🏆 pic.twitter.com/mwKUzIBEBJ

— Pafos FC (@pafosfcofficial) May 4, 2025

Harry Kane — first club trophy of his career

Throughout his long career, the 31-year-old Englishman collected a cabinet full of individual honors: nine times top scorer in tournaments, Golden Boot winner in 2023/24, and England's player of the year in 2017 and 2018.

But club and national team silverware had eluded him. For years, it seemed he was cursed. In the 2023/24 season, Harry joined Bayern Munich, who had won 11 consecutive Bundesliga titles. But in Kane's first campaign, Bayer Leverkusen snatched the championship away from Bayern. Only at the second attempt did Kane finally conquer the German league.

A pleasure being at the museum today to put the trophies on display! pic.twitter.com/PeK3f3tZ4K

— Harry Kane (@HKane) May 14, 2025

All in all, this marks the 33rd champion of the English Premier League, which has been running since February 1992. Over these 33 years, we've witnessed seven different teams lift the trophy, but every season has its own unique story, unlike any that came before.

• See also: From the “chill guy” Huyssen to the “pharaoh” Omar Marmoush: the best Premier League debutants of the 2024/25 season

Our editorial team decided to take these 33 champions and put together a top 15 of the greatest Premier League winners. Of course, there are no “bad” champions, but we’ve highlighted the 15 sides that, in Dailysports’ opinion, were the most convincing and dominant in Premier League history.

The previous season, Arsenal had ended United’s Premier League dominance, prompting the Red Devils’ management to make sweeping changes. The club parted ways with several veteran players, bringing in fresh faces in their place. A total of £28 million was spent on striker Dwight Yorke, central defender Jaap Stam, and Swedish midfielder Jesper Blomqvist.

These reinforcements paid off, and United were crowned champions in the 1998/99 season. Over 38 rounds, Sir Alex Ferguson’s side lost just three times. However, the title race went right down to the wire. Manchester United narrowly beat Tottenham 1-0 on the final day, reached 78 points, and secured their fifth Premier League title, finishing just one point ahead of Arsenal.

The third-ever Premier League campaign—and the last to feature 22 teams before the competition was trimmed to the 20 we know today—delivered a nail-biting finish. Blackburn Rovers emerged as champions, claiming their third top-flight title in the club’s history. The season was fiercely contested and only decided in the final round, not without a “gift” from Manchester United.

Heading into the final fixtures, the gap between the Red Devils and Rovers was just two points. Blackburn actually lost 2-1 to Liverpool, but United dropped points as well, drawing 1-1 with West Ham. After 42 matches, Rovers finished with 89 points, United with 88.

Undoubtedly, this triumph was driven by the sensational strike partnership of Alan Shearer and Chris Sutton, who combined for 49 of the team’s 80 league goals. United also suffered from Eric Cantona’s infamous 10-match suspension for kicking a fan in the stands.

In many ways, this was a historic title for Manchester City. No team in Premier League history had ever won four consecutive championships—until now. Pep Guardiola’s side made it happen, but not without drama. Three teams were in the hunt: Arsenal, Liverpool, and City. Liverpool dropped out of the race in the spring, leaving the Gunners and the Cityzens to duel it out.

The pivotal moment was the rescheduled matchday 34 fixture. City were trailing Arsenal by a point but had a game in hand against Tottenham. In a tense encounter, Guardiola’s men beat Spurs, leapfrogged Arsenal, and saw out the final round to claim their fourth straight crown. City finished on 91 points, Arsenal on 89.

Before the season began, Manchester United pulled off a blockbuster signing, bringing in Robin van Persie. The Dutchman was the league’s top scorer with 26 goals and nine assists. But the season was memorable for another reason: legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson announced he would retire at the end of the campaign. Determined to go out on top, he did just that, winning his 13th league title.

This trophy is unique for another reason—United have not won the Premier League since. They have finished as runners-up only twice. During this era, United lifted six trophies, but none of them were Premier League titles.

The second non-Manchester side in our ranking. The Gunners won the Premier League’s 10th anniversary season. For much of the campaign, Arsenal, Newcastle, Liverpool, and Manchester United were all in the hunt, but it came down to the Gunners and the Red Devils in the end.

The decisive match was a rescheduled round 35 clash at Old Trafford, where Arsenal edged United 1-0 thanks to a championship-winning goal from Sylvain Wiltord. Despite all the pre-match intrigue, Arsenal’s title felt deserved: Arsène Wenger’s men dropped just six points from mid-December 2001 onwards.

This season marked the birth of Manchester United’s Premier League dynasty under Sir Alex Ferguson. Despite a shaky start—United sat 10th in November—the turning point came with the signing of Eric Cantona from Leeds.

United clawed back the deficit, took the lead in the table, and cruised to the title with a 10-point cushion over Aston Villa. This was a watershed moment for the Red Devils, their first league title in 26 years.

A phenomenal squad boasting a rock-solid defense anchored by Nemanja Vidić and Rio Ferdinand, the brilliant Edwin van der Sar in goal, and a fearsome attack led by Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney, and Carlos Tevez. The title race was a fierce battle between United and Chelsea. Heading into the final round, Chelsea led the standings by one point.

• Also: 5 reasons why the Club World Cup has a great chance for success

But Chelsea failed to beat Bolton at home—a 90th-minute goal meant a 1-1 draw. United did what they had to, beating Wigan 2-0. In the end, Ferguson’s team edged Chelsea by two points and retained the title.

Long before Manchester City became the first club to win four titles in a row, their city rivals United were on the brink of a similar feat. But Chelsea stood in their way. As in 2007/08, the Londoners went into the final day just one point ahead of United. This time, though, they left no doubt about their dominance, thrashing Wigan 8-0 in round 38, with Didier Drogba netting a hat-trick and Nicolas Anelka bagging a brace.

On top of the rout, Carlo Ancelotti’s side set a Premier League record for most goals scored in a season—103. That mark stood for eight years. Ancelotti became a champion in his debut Chelsea campaign, but was sacked just weeks later. This was Chelsea’s third top-flight title.

One of the most dramatic title races in Premier League history. Two giants—Liverpool and Manchester City—went toe-to-toe, with the outcome undecided until the final day. Liverpool finished with 97 points—a tally that would win the league nine times out of ten. But not when Manchester City are your rivals.

Pep Guardiola’s side won their last 14 matches and finished one point clear of Liverpool. On the decisive day, City fell behind early but responded with four goals to clinch the title. Liverpool fans’ joy was short-lived, though their time would come soon enough.

An incredibly challenging season, interrupted for months by the COVID-19 pandemic. But nothing could stop Liverpool from ending their 30-year wait for a league title. Jürgen Klopp’s side were sensational: just three defeats and three draws all season, and only two points dropped in their first 27 games.

The stars aligned for Liverpool that year: Alisson and Van Dijk were rock-solid at the back, while the attacking trio of Mané, Firmino, and Salah were in unstoppable form. The Reds scored 85 goals and conceded just 33. This was Liverpool’s 19th English title and their first of the Premier League era.

We’ve already covered the thrilling 2018/19 title race, but Manchester City’s 2011/12 triumph was even more dramatic. It was the club’s first Premier League title, secured in unforgettable fashion. Heading into the final day, both Manchester clubs were deadlocked on 86 points.

City hosted QPR, while United visited Sunderland. City held the tiebreaker advantage, but things looked bleak as United won 1-0 and City trailed 2-1. Then, in the dying moments, everything changed: Edin Džeko equalized in the 92nd minute, and moments later, the world heard the legendary "Aguerooooo!" as the Argentine struck the winner to clinch the title for City.

The most sensational season in Premier League history—a campaign everyone remembers. Leicester had finished 14th the previous year, surviving only in the final rounds. But a year later, the Foxes pulled off a footballing miracle. Yes, the traditional giants had off seasons, but that doesn’t diminish Leicester’s incredible achievement.

They racked up 81 points over 38 matches, finishing ten clear of Arsenal. Given the financial muscle of the top clubs, it’s unlikely we’ll ever see anything like this again. That’s why Leicester rank so highly in our list.

José Mourinho’s first season in English football—and what a debut. He led Chelsea to their first Premier League title, amassing 95 points and finishing 12 clear of the nearest challengers over 38 rounds.

But that wasn’t the only thing that set this campaign apart. Chelsea lost just once and, even more remarkably, conceded only 15 goals—a record unmatched in league history. Given how the game has evolved, it’s hard to see anyone repeating that feat.

Pep Guardiola’s second season in charge was utterly dominant. City lost only twice and drew four times, but the real story was their attacking firepower. In 38 games, they scored 106 goals—an average of 2.7 per match.

The team finished with 100 points—a Premier League record. There may not have been much suspense, but City’s exceptional form rightfully earns them second place in our ranking.

And, of course, the top spot goes to the only side to go unbeaten through an entire Premier League season. In 38 matches, Arsenal drew 12 and won the rest. They may not have been as dazzling or prolific as in 2001/02, but no team before or since has matched this achievement.

The bronze medals went to Nigeria, who edged out the hosts Egypt in a dramatic penalty shootout. The final showdown featured South Africa and Morocco, with the latter entering as favorites.

South Africa clinched a narrow victory, capturing their first-ever U-20 Africa Cup of Nations title. Notably, Sierra Leone's Momo Kamara finished as the tournament's top scorer with 4 goals.

• See also: Everything you need to know about the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations 2025: who plays, where and when matches will take place

Our editorial team has compiled the full fixture list, results, and group stage tables for the 2025 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations.

Note: All match times are given in Central European Time.

27.0417:00 Zambia — Sierra Leone 0:0 20:00 Egypt — South Africa 1:0

30.0417:00 South Africa — Tanzania 1:020:00 Sierra Leone — Egypt 4:1

3.0517:00 Tanzania — Sierra Leone 0:120:00 Egypt — Zambia 0:0

6.0517:00 Sierra Leone — South Africa 1:420:00 Zambia — Tanzania 1:0

9.0520:00 South Africa — Zambia 1:120:00 Tanzania — Egypt 0:1

1.0517:00 Nigeria — Tunisia 1:020:00 Kenya — Morocco 2:3

4.0517:00 Tunisia — Kenya 3:120:00 Morocco — Nigeria 0:0

7.0517:00 Nigeria — Kenya 2:217:00 Tunisia — Morocco 1:3

2.0517:00 Senegal — CAR 1:120:00 DR Congo — Ghana 1:1

5.0517:00 CAR — DR Congo 1:320:00 Ghana — Senegal 1:0

8.0517:00 CAR — Ghana 0:117:00 Senegal — DR Congo 2:0

12.05South Africa — DR Congo 1:0 AETNigeria — Senegal 1:0 pens.Morocco — Sierra Leone 1:0 AETGhana — Egypt 2:3 pens.

15.0517:00 South Africa — Nigeria 1:020:00 Morocco — Egypt 1:0

18.0517:00 Nigeria - Egypt - 1:1, pens: 4:1

18.0520:00 South Africa - Morocco - 1:0

We present the Premier League's symbolic team of the season, featuring the top debutants of the campaign.

• See also: 5 reasons why the Club World Cup has a great chance of success

The 24-year-old Danish shot-stopper joined the Foxes from Brøndby back in 2023 and spent a season with them in the Championship. Despite Leicester's outsider status in the Premier League, Mads delivered a commendable campaign.

Hermansen averaged 4 saves per game, stopped a penalty, and kept one clean sheet. In Matchweek 6, he conceded four goals to Arsenal but made an incredible 13 saves and two successful sweeper actions, preventing two more goals.

In his first senior season, the 18-year-old Englishman featured in 20 league matches (13 starts). On average, Lewis-Skelly made one tackle and clearance per game, as well as two ball recoveries.

This season, his passing accuracy stands at 94%, including 58% for long balls and 25% for crosses. In February 2025, Miles scored his first goal, finding the net against Manchester City.

The 19-year-old Spaniard of Dutch descent blossomed at Bournemouth after his move from Roma. In Matchweek 14, he made club history by becoming their youngest-ever goalscorer.

Dean is a constant threat going forward (three goals and one assist), excels in ball progression (84% pass accuracy), and doesn't neglect his defensive duties: he averages six clearances and two interceptions per match, and wins 61% of his aerial duels.

🇬🇭🎯 Antoine Semenyo's long throw for Dean Huijsen's goal. 😳👏 pic.twitter.com/a3ufYMJght

— EuroFoot (@eurofootcom) May 4, 2025

The 27-year-old Serbian arrived at Forest from Fiorentina and immediately established himself as a starter. He contributed four goals and two assists.

Milenkovic created two big chances, completed 84% of his passes, and averaged five clearances, one tackle, and two recoveries per match. The Serbian won 72% of his aerial duels and 67% of his ground duels.

The 25-year-old Frenchman signed a four-year deal with Crystal Palace in the summer of 2024. He made his debut for the Eagles in September and registered an assist that same month. In December, Lacroix scored his first Premier League goal.

Across 32 appearances for Palace, Lacroix created three big chances, missed two clear scoring opportunities, and completed 82% of his passes. On average, he recorded six clearances, two tackles, one interception, and four recoveries per game. Maxence won 60% of his duels both on the ground and in the air.

The 28-year-old Spaniard made the switch to the Emirates from Real Sociedad in late August 2024. In 26 Premier League matches, Merino netted six goals (including a match-winning brace against Leicester) and provided two assists.

Mikel created three big chances and completed 80% of his passes. On average, he registered one or two tackles, three recoveries, and one clearance per game.

The 20-year-old Gambian joined Brighton from Dutch side Feyenoord in the summer of 2024. In his very first match for the Seagulls, Yankuba provided an assist.

Over 29 Premier League matches, Minteh delivered four assists and scored six goals (including a brace against Chelsea). He is the only player under 21 to have directly contributed to 10 goals in the league. Yankuba created eight big chances and had as many shots on goal himself.

Yankuba's brilliant brace to beat Chelsea! ⚽️⚽️ Highlights in partnership with @MPBcom. 🤝 pic.twitter.com/LT9qEi4grw

— Brighton & Hove Albion (@OfficialBHAFC) February 15, 2025

The 21-year-old Brazilian made the switch to the Citizens from Girona in summer 2024. At City, Savinho became the team's top provider, racking up eight assists. He scored his first (and so far only) goal in Matchweek 19 against Leicester, also setting up Erling Haaland in the same game.

Across 27 league matches, Savinho created 11 big chances and completed 87% of his passes. On average, he made two successful dribbles, three recoveries, and won 50% of his duels both on the ground and in the air.

On loan from PSG since February 2025, the 29-year-old Spaniard featured in 10 league games, scoring three goals (including a brace against Chelsea) and providing one assist. Asensio also created one big chance and completed 87% of his passes.

The 26-year-old Egyptian arrived from Eintracht Frankfurt at the end of January. Within two weeks, Omar bagged a hat-trick against Newcastle.

Across 13 Premier League matches, Marmoush scored six goals, created six big chances, and completed 83% of his passes, including a perfect record on long balls. On average, he completed one successful dribble per match and forced at least one foul from the opposition.

Omar Marmoush's first Premier League hat-trick 😮‍💨 pic.twitter.com/1TcQhpa1K0

— Premier League (@premierleague) February 15, 2025

The 25-year-old Brazilian joined Bournemouth from Porto in August 2024. He quickly became one of the Cherries' top scorers, netting 10 goals in 28 matches and providing one assist. He also created two big chances and completed 70% of his passes.

Evanilson is a true penalty-winning specialist. In Matchweek 8 against Arsenal, he drew a foul from William Saliba in the box, and in Matchweek 13 against Wolves, he earned three penalties, all converted by Kluivert.

In his very first season, the 46-year-old Dutch tactician led Liverpool to the Premier League title, ending Manchester City's four-year dominance. Slot became only the sixth manager to win the league in his debut season and the third youngest (after José Mourinho and Kenny Dalglish) to claim the championship at all.

In Jurgen Klopp’s farewell speech, he welcomed the next Liverpool manager, Arne Slot, by singing his name.After leading Liverpool to the Premier League title 11 months later, Arne Slot thanked his predecessor, Jurgen Klopp, by singing his name. pic.twitter.com/0kwExNquSR

— Premier League (@premierleague) April 28, 2025

This marks the 88th world championship in history. For Sweden, it will be their twelfth time hosting, while Denmark welcomes the event for the second time.

By the way, Canada remains the most decorated team, having won gold 28 times. The reigning champions are the Czech Republic.

• Read also: Stanley Cup 2025: schedule, results and playoff bracket

The Dailyspots editor has prepared five key predictions for this year’s world championship.

Sweden is bringing a host of NHL stars, including New York Rangers leader Mika Zibanejad. Plus, the tournament is on home ice for the Swedes—another huge advantage in their favor. The Tre Kronor last lifted the championship trophy in 2018, so motivation is sky-high.

📣 Här är den! Tre Kronors VM-trupp 😍Förbundskapten Sam Hallam presenterade idag 23 namn i en preliminär VM-trupp. "Vi vet att vi har ett uppdrag, som är att ta guld", säger Hallam.👉 Läs mer här https://t.co/m6QCYP1c1qPå fredag släpps pucken! 🇸🇪🏒 pic.twitter.com/MWAzh2a7mC

— Tre Kronor (@Trekronorse) May 5, 2025

As for Canada, their roster looks even more formidable. The surprise call-up is legendary captain Sidney Crosby. Goaltender Marc-André Fleury, who has already ended his club career, will play his final tournament for the national team. Nathan MacKinnon—Crosby’s long-time friend and Colorado’s leader—has also agreed to join the squad.

Last year, Canada fell in the semifinals and then lost to Sweden in the bronze medal game. They won gold in 2023, and before that in 2021—every other year. By that logic, it’s their turn to claim the top prize.

Team Canada is ready to shine at #MensWorlds! 🌟🤜🤛#IIHF @hockeycanada pic.twitter.com/dpcN67Uimg

— IIHF (@IIHFHockey) May 6, 2025

Bookmakers also see Sweden and Canada as the top contenders. The odds for Tre Kronor to win are 3.8, while the Maple Leafs are at 2.4.

Last year, the world championship was held in Czechia, and the hosts put on a brilliant display to claim gold. In the playoffs, they knocked out the USA, Sweden, and Switzerland. Now, the Czechs arrive once again as one of the favorites, with a roster no weaker than last year’s. David Pastrnak will suit up for the national team again, joined by Colorado star Martin Nečas.

However, this time they lack a goaltender of last year’s caliber. Karel Vejmelka from Utah, who stopped 90% of shots this season, is the most experienced in net heading into the tournament. Plus, Czechia will be playing away from home without the energy of their passionate fans, which could impact their performance.

Still, bookmakers include Czechia among the favorites. The Lions are given odds of 9.0 to win it all.

Není důvod měnit něco, co funguje. Kapitánem národního týmu je opět Roman Červenka. 👨‍✈️#narodnitym #ceskyhokej #MensWorlds pic.twitter.com/SebZFMHCXK

— Český hokej (@czehockey) May 7, 2025

At last year’s world championship, Finland barely squeezed into the playoffs, but their play was far from convincing and they exited in the quarterfinals. This year’s roster doesn’t dazzle with star power either, so it’s shaping up to be another tough battle.

That said, this team has often toppled giants even without a lineup full of stars. The Finns are famous for their stifling, disruptive style. But at the last tournament, with so many star-studded squads, they couldn’t reach the semifinals.

The architect of their 2022 world and Olympic triumphs, Jukka Jalonen, has stepped down as head coach. His last tournament was the 2023 world championship, where the Suomi also bowed out in the quarterfinals. The team failed to showcase the hockey their fans expect. It feels like Finland’s style is no longer as effective as it once was.

Low Profile. High Pressure. Suomi is ready to deliver at #MensWorlds!🥶#IIHF pic.twitter.com/e1enjyW3kW

— IIHF (@IIHFHockey) May 6, 2025

Switzerland played outstanding hockey last year, reaching the final before falling to Czechia. It was their first podium finish since 2018, when they also fielded a competitive squad. This time, New Jersey Devils forwards Nico Hischier and Timo Meier have been called up again, along with Jonas Siegenthaler from the Devils.

On top of that, Swiss clubs have won the last two editions of the Champions Hockey League. It’s clear hockey is on the rise in Switzerland, and the national team consistently makes the playoffs. This time, they could well reach the semifinals or even the final.

Bookmakers rate Switzerland’s title chances higher than Finland’s, giving them odds of 12, compared to 13 for the Suomi.

Smart, steady and skilled. Switzerland is coming to battle for the top! 🇨🇭💪 #MensWorlds #IIHF @SwissIceHockey pic.twitter.com/xVEKp4PwBf

— IIHF (@IIHFHockey) May 7, 2025

Team USA is once again sending a roster almost entirely made up of NHL players. Two more skaters come from the college ranks. Utah leaders Logan Cooley and Clayton Keller will take part, as will Buffalo star Tage Thompson. However, the core of the team is very young—the oldest player, Brady Skjei, is just 31.

The last time the USA won the world championship was back in 1960. Since then, they’ve collected nine silvers and nine bronzes. At the previous tournament, the Stars and Stripes were knocked out in the quarterfinals—even though the squad was older and more experienced. Maybe this year, youth will play into their hands, as many players have something to prove.

Still, I don’t see the Americans as the main contenders for gold. Bookmakers have the USA at 6.5 odds to win.

Time flies 🇺🇸 #MensWorlds pic.twitter.com/BCVEzmMwPZ

— USA Hockey (@usahockey) May 5, 2025

In the round's marquee clash, Rosario Central edged out Independiente by the narrowest of margins thanks to an own goal from Adrián Sporle. This victory, coupled with Boca Juniors’ draw against Tigre, allowed the “Yellow and Blues” to finish the Apertura at the top of the table.

• Goalkeeper: Ignacio Arce (Deportivo Riestra)

The 33-year-old Argentine kept his third consecutive clean sheet. In this Apertura campaign, Arce has not conceded in twelve matches, setting the tournament’s best defensive record.

Against Godoy Cruz, Ignacio made five saves—four from inside the box. He also successfully claimed two crosses, made two interceptions, and stopped one shot.

Arce completed 15 accurate long balls, made two clearances, won an aerial duel, and even registered a shot on target from his own penalty area.

🇦🇷📊 Ignacio Arce es el ARQUERO CON MÁS VALLAS INVICTAS [12/16] en el Torneo Apertura 2025. pic.twitter.com/twz8rrsWR9

— JS (@juegosimple__) May 3, 2025

• Left back: Agustín Sández (Rosario Central)

Against Independiente, the 24-year-old Paraguayan made six clearances, plus one tackle and one interception. Sández boasted a 94% passing accuracy, including three long balls, two incisive passes, one chance created, and a successful dribble.

Agustín Sández (24 años, 🇵🇾) vs. C.A.I Independiente🥇 1º en chances creadas [2]🥇 1º en precisión de pases (jugadores con +45 min) [94%]👟 registro [3/3] en pelotas largas pic.twitter.com/NpG6PxZpit

— Analytics Fútbol Paraguayo (@analyticspyfut) May 4, 2025

• Centre back: Kevin Jappert (Barracas)

The 21-year-old Argentine, in an away game against Huracán, made two clearances, one interception, and blocked a shot. Kevin won all three of his duels—both on the ground and in the air—and drew a foul.

Most importantly, in the 49th minute, Jappert scored the match-winner for Barracas. He could have had a brace, but his other shot struck the post.

Con este gol de Jappert, Barracas venció a Huracán.⚽Segundo tanto de Kevin desde su llegada al guapo. pic.twitter.com/p4pInwdCEY

— Orgullo Barraqueño (@Orgullobarraqe) May 4, 2025

• Right back: Juan Pintado (Gimnasia y Esgrima)

The 27-year-old Uruguayan registered his first goal involvement in an official match since November 2024. Deep into stoppage time, Juan delivered a corner that Nicolás Garayalde converted for the only—and winning—goal against Platense.

Pintado also made two clearances, one tackle, delivered five key passes, eight crosses, and four accurate long balls. He won four of six duels, completed a successful dribble, and was solid at both ends.

• Defensive midfielder: Matías Galarza (Talleres)

By the 13th minute, Matías had already opened the scoring against Instituto. For the 23-year-old Argentine, this was his maiden goal for the Cordoba club in blue and white.

Galarza completed 49 (96%) accurate passes, including four long balls. He made two successful dribbles, won eight of twelve ground duels, made three tackles, and drew three fouls from opponents.

ARRIBA TALLERES ⚽ Matías Galarza sacó un tiro cruzado que se convirtió en el 1 a 0 ante InstitutoViví el Torneo Apertura 2025 por TNT Sports Premium y disfrutalo también en Max 👉 #Suscribite https://t.co/rq6sQOr7sM pic.twitter.com/2HOKhTUSPf

— TNT Sports Argentina (@TNTSportsAR) May 3, 2025

• Left midfielder: Kevin Zenón (Boca Juniors)

In the 21st minute, Kevin broke the deadlock against Tigre, netting his second goal of the Apertura.

The 23-year-old Argentine also created a goal-scoring chance, delivered a key pass, two crosses, and three long balls. Zenón completed all three of his dribbles, won nine of thirteen ground duels, and made four tackles.

¿Puntaje para el GOLAZO de Kevin Zenón vs. Tigre en Victoria? pic.twitter.com/rVtCIJbuqq

— SportsCenter (@SC_ESPN) May 4, 2025

• Central midfielder: Martín Rio (Banfield)

The 24-year-old Argentine scored two of Banfield’s three goals against Central Córdoba—both with his head. It was the first brace of his professional career.

In round 16, Rio also won five of seven aerial duels, made eight clearances, and completed one accurate long ball.

EL BANFIELD DE TROGLIO SALIÓ CON TODO ⚽Al minuto de juego, Martín Rio puso el 1-0 ante Central CórdobaViví el Torneo Apertura 2025 por TNT Sports Premium y disfrutalo también en Max 👉 #Suscribite https://t.co/rq6sQOr7sM pic.twitter.com/PZhLxRP4mh

— TNT Sports Argentina (@TNTSportsAR) May 2, 2025

• Central midfielder: Lorenzo Scipioni (Tigre)

The 20-year-old Argentine scored against Boca Juniors in first-half stoppage time, earning Tigre a draw. It was the first official goal of his career.

Scipioni also registered three clearances, one tackle, and four interceptions. He completed 33 (85%) accurate passes, including one long ball, and won two ground duels and one aerial duel.

⚔️🌟 Lorenzo Scipioni convirtió un GOL y fue el jugador con más intercepciones [4] frente a Boca Juniors.20 años.🪄 pic.twitter.com/HPEYspqOIp

— FutbolScan (@futbolscan) May 4, 2025

• Right midfielder: Nacho Fernández (River Plate)

The 35-year-old Argentine registered his first goal contributions of the Apertura. In the 28th minute, Fernández provided an assist, and five minutes later, he found the net himself.

Against Vélez Sarsfield, Nacho also tallied three key passes, three accurate long balls, and a successful dribble. He won six duels, drew four fouls, made two interceptions, and contributed with a tackle, a clearance, and a blocked shot.

NACHOOO 🤩💪 pic.twitter.com/AxlpfThAcY

— River Plate (@RiverPlate) May 5, 2025

• Forward: Tomás Molina (Argentinos Juniors)

The 29-year-old Argentine notched his first brace since June 2024 in the match against Estudiantes. In the 26th minute, Tomás opened the scoring, and a minute later, capitalized on a defensive error to double the “Red Beetles’” lead.

In 72 minutes on the pitch, Molina also completed two successful dribbles, won six of nine ground duels, drew two fouls, and made two tackles.

#AAAJ Sacando del medio y corta 🔥🫶GLADIADGOOOOOOLLLLLL pic.twitter.com/58KlALxAQb

— Argentinos Juniors (@AAAJoficial) May 2, 2025

• Forward: Elías Torres (Aldosivi)

The 24-year-old Argentine scored twice for the first time since September last year. Both of Torres’ goals against San Martín came in stoppage time.

Elías completed two successful dribbles, delivered two accurate long balls, won three ground duels and one aerial duel, made a clearance, and earned a foul.

¡DOS GOLES CALCADOS! Al igual que su primer gol, Elías Torres se fue a la contra y puso el 3-0 final de Aldosivi ante San Martín de San Juan. pic.twitter.com/mQFlcBT5hJ

— SportsCenter (@SC_ESPN) May 4, 2025

• Coach: Gustavo Costas (Racing)

In round 16, Racing celebrated their fifth straight victory. After a controversial red card for Santiago Sosa, Costas’ men played the entire second half a man down. The 62-year-old tactician reshaped the side from a 3-5-2 to a 4-4-1, shoring up the defense. Yet, Costas’ team snatched all three points thanks to a last-minute own goal by their rivals.

His decision to trust Maximiliano Salas, who insisted on coming on and gave 100%, highlights Costas’ ability to read his squad’s mindset—cementing team spirit.

✍️ @DTGustavoCostas pic.twitter.com/jCXTvCr4uW

— Racing Club (@RacingClub) May 3, 2025

Just a few months ago, Mohamed Salah was among the top contenders for the Ballon d'Or. His extraordinary Premier League stats keep the Egyptian in the top 10. In 34 Premier League matches this season, Salah has scored 28 goals and provided 18 assists, marking the best individual performance in league history.

However, international trophies carry significant weight in Ballon d'Or voting. Liverpool were crowned English champions for the 20th time but were knocked out of the Champions League at the last-16 stage. They haven't qualified for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, which greatly reduces Salah's chances of winning the award.

• See also: Salah no longer a favorite: Power Rankings 01.04.2025

pic.twitter.com/HsjQa6Bkfs

— Mohamed Salah (@MoSalah) April 27, 2025

The Portuguese midfielder for the French champions retains his spot in our rankings. A year ago, he unexpectedly broke into the top 30 in the voting, and this year he has every chance to improve his standing.

Vitinha is PSG's midfield leader. Alongside Marquinhos, he ensures the team fights on the pitch no matter the circumstances. A standout moment was the match against Nantes (1-1), where PSG played lackadaisically due to a lack of motivation. Yet, Vitinha led the team in distance covered and even scored a goal.

One of Luis Enrique's best players, he will be a key Ballon d'Or candidate if PSG wins the Champions League.

🎙️ Vitinha: "The match will be difficult and will be decided by details. Arsenal are a very good team both offensively and defensively."#ARSPSG | #UCL pic.twitter.com/XUZNPGNaXh

— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) April 28, 2025

Many at Inter were outraged that Lautaro Martinez didn't make the top 3 in the Ballon d'Or voting after winning the Scudetto and triumphing in the Copa America. This year, the Argentine has a chance to rectify that.

Lautaro had a slow start to the season and was overshadowed in the team's attack by Marcus Thuram for a while. But now Martinez has once again become a key figure in Simone Inzaghi's squad.

In the Champions League quarter-finals against Bayern, Lautaro scored two crucial goals. Clearly, the Argentine will be Inter's main hope in the upcoming games against Barcelona.

Lautaro 😤#UCL pic.twitter.com/4N94Ok4Uq2

— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) April 16, 2025

La Liga's top scorer remains a key candidate for the Ballon d'Or. However, the Pole will definitely miss both Champions League semi-final matches and upcoming La Liga games.

Despite Lewandowski's impressive tally of 40 goals in 48 matches, he isn't considered irreplaceable at Barcelona. Recently, Ferran Torres has been filling in admirably for the Pole, while other attacking players appear truly indispensable.

Thus, Lewandowski holds only the seventh spot for now.

A post shared by Robert Lewandowski (@_rl9)

How crucial Saka is for this Arsenal! The England winger missed several months due to injury, but his return coincided with the matches against Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-finals. Saka played a pivotal role in these games. In the first leg, he was the most active player in attack, creating chances and winning two free kicks for Declan Rice, and at the Santiago Bernabeu, he scored a goal.

And Saka hasn't even reached his peak form yet. It's evident that he's still finding it hard to play 90 minutes, but he's improving week by week. Overall, Saka's stats are impressive – 11 goals and a whopping 14 assists in 31 matches.

• See also: Arsenal remains a favorite: Champions League victory odds according to Opta

🌶️ Saka golazo but make it cinematic... 🎞️#UCL pic.twitter.com/QITsESIM9O

— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) April 22, 2025

Pedri makes his debut in our Power Rankings, landing immediately in fifth place! The Spanish super talent has finally overcome his persistent injuries, and the results are evident. What Pedri has been doing on the pitch in recent months is pure magic.

The 22-year-old Barcelona midfielder doesn't have insane stats for goals and assists, but his value lies elsewhere. Pedri is the brain of Hansi Flick's team. Pedri's contribution to Barcelona's play can be likened to the importance of Andres Iniesta to Pep Guardiola.

Incidentally, La Liga named Pedri the Player of the Month for April, a well-deserved recognition.

Pedri is a joy to watch 😍#UCL pic.twitter.com/yNDcLwZGh6

— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) April 23, 2025

Declan Rice has stormed into our rankings! Not just with two feet, but with two stunning free-kicks. What Rice did in the first leg against Real Madrid will go down in football history. Those two incredible free-kicks completely turned the tie in favor of the Gunners.

At the Santiago Bernabeu, Rice was again named Man of the Match, and this time he didn't even need to score. Rice is as crucial for Arsenal as Rodri is for Man City.

Rice is an irreplaceable player in Arsenal's midfield, and 2024 has already shown that victories aren't solely for attacking players. If Arsenal wins the Champions League, Rice will be among the main Ballon d'Or contenders.

💪 pic.twitter.com/Jr8IUNsjHW

— Declan Rice (@DR41fanpage) April 28, 2025

In November and December, Barcelona experienced a significant dip, temporarily losing the lead in La Liga. This slump can be directly tied to Lamine Yamal's injury.

It's astonishing how much influence the 17-year-old has on one of the world's best teams. Even in the recent Spanish Cup final, it was Yamal's two assists that forced the game into extra time, and his pass to Ferran Torres was a masterpiece.

Barcelona faces crucial matches ahead, and if Yamal maintains his level, a top-3 finish is almost guaranteed. Who knows, he might even become the youngest Ballon d'Or winner in history.

• See also: Cool kid! Lamine Yamal shares personal photo of his little brother celebrating the Spanish Cup victory

Lamine Yamal Aura ✨ pic.twitter.com/pYVHQDINmL

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) April 28, 2025

Ousmane Dembélé's transformation is one of the most beautiful stories of this season. A player who became a meme for his injuries and lifestyle choices, he got married and turned into one of the world's best players. In 44 matches, Dembélé scored 32 goals and provided 12 assists, with most of his achievements coming in 2025.

Dembélé has been phenomenal in 2025, and his clash with Bukayo Saka in the semi-finals is exciting. If PSG reaches the final, Dembélé will be among the main Ballon d'Or contenders. PSG also has the Club World Cup ahead.

All business 👔#UCL pic.twitter.com/Htk6WpdjFg

— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) April 9, 2025

No changes at the top of our rankings. Yes, Raphinha had a lackluster Spanish Cup final, but this doesn't change the fact that the Brazilian is Barcelona's best player this season.

With 30 goals and 23 assists in 50 matches, including 12 goals and 7 assists in the Champions League, Raphinha's stats are nearly unbeatable this season. If Barcelona wins the treble, the Ballon d'Or winner question will be settled.

A post shared by Raphinha (@raphinha)

The main event of the round was the Superclásico between River Plate and Boca Juniors. The hosts clinched a 2-1 victory, and as a result, two Los Millonarios players make our team of the week.

Presenting the symbolic team of Matchday 15 of the Apertura.

• See also: The Round of 16 bracket is taking shape in the 2025 Argentine Apertura: San Lorenzo vs Racing on the horizon

The 24-year-old guardian of the “Matadores” goal made two saves from inside the box against Estudiantes, and also claimed the ball successfully once. Zenobio completed 10 accurate passes, won one aerial duel, and made a clearance. This was his second consecutive clean sheet and seventh of the current season.

In the match against Banfield, the 26-year-old Argentine tallied 10 clearances and 3 tackles, as well as 3 interceptions, and blocked one opponent’s shot. Ignacio won 5 of his 7 duels for the ball.

Gariglio delivered 2 key and one long pass, all finding their targets. He also put in two successful crosses. After one of his set-piece deliveries in the 39th minute, Gonzalo Mottez opened the scoring. This is Ignacio’s first direct goal involvement in the current campaign.

MARISCAL 💚 pic.twitter.com/4sWyWL8oBX

— Club Atl. Aldosivi (@clubaldosivi) April 26, 2025

Facing Gimnasia y Esgrima, the 21-year-old Argentine registered 13 clearances and 2 tackles, blocking three shots. He completed five accurate long passes, won all six ground and aerial duels, and drew a foul from an opponent.

me lo puteaban y decían que no jugaba con actitud, hoy entra en el podio con bouzat y romero cuando el equipo fue un DESASTRE, sigan criticándolo a valentín gómez que el responde en la cancha. pic.twitter.com/3mvT5igkpG

— gomezneta (@unpibefortinero) April 29, 2025

Against Deportivo Riestra, the 23-year-old Argentine recorded 6 clearances, 5 tackles, one interception, and one block. Kevin won 12 of 13 ground duels and all 5 aerial duels, completed 3 successful dribbles, and delivered 10 accurate and one long pass.

En lo futbolístico...Kevin Lomónaco fue el MEJOR de todo #Independiente 🥇 pic.twitter.com/GXXPhcm2qj

— SoyDelRojo.com 👹 (@SoydelRojoCom) April 28, 2025

In the match against Independiente, Nicolás made 7 clearances, 2 tackles, and one interception. He won 6 of 9 duels both on the ground and in the air, completed a successful dribble, and delivered an accurate long ball.

Against Huracán, the 36-year-old Argentine completed 8 accurate long passes, 2 key passes, and a cross. Éver succeeded in all three of his dribble attempts, won 6 out of 8 ground duels and one of two aerial duels. Banega also made 2 tackles and an interception.

🎩🪄 Éver Banega, hasta su salida, entre los jugadores de Newell’s vs Huracán:➜ 1º en toques [55]➜ 1º en recuperaciones [9]➜ 1º en chances creadas [2]➜ 1º en pases precisos [36/44]➜ 1º en pases al campo rival [20]➜ 1º en pases al último tercio [10]➜ 1º en… pic.twitter.com/In5L0imxhp

— FutbolScan (@futbolscan) April 30, 2025

Gastón marked his 100th appearance for the red-and-whites with a goal. In the 67th minute, he scored with a header to salvage a draw for Instituto. This was Lodico’s fourth goal of the campaign.

Against Sarmiento, Gastón completed 58 (91%) accurate passes, including 3 key and 6 long balls, and 3 crosses. He created 2 scoring chances for teammates. Lodico won 4 of 7 ground duels, drew 2 fouls, made 2 tackles, and a clearance.

🐱 DE LA MANO DEL GATO🇦🇹 Gastón Lodico convirtió tres de los últimos cuatro goles de #Instituto en el #TorneoApertura:⚽️⚽️ vs. #Riestra⚽️ vs. #Sarmiento📊 Además, el volante acumuló un 91% de efectividad en pases (58/64), 3 pases claves, 2 ocasiones claras creadas y 4/7… pic.twitter.com/PGeuP72gyr

— 351 Deportes (@351Deportes) April 28, 2025

In his 68 minutes on the pitch against Independiente Rivadavia, the 25-year-old Uruguayan created two scoring chances. Nicolás delivered 4 key and 3 accurate long passes, and made 2 crosses. He won 8 of 11 ground and aerial duels, made 6 tackles, completed a successful dribble, and registered an interception.

⏱️ Entretiempo 🔜 #TorneoAperturaBetanoCACC 0️⃣🆚️0️⃣ @CSIRoficial #VamosFerroviario 🏁 pic.twitter.com/w5VB55ppkB

— Club Atletico Central Córdoba (@cacc_sde) April 29, 2025

The 28-year-old Colombian registered a goal contribution for the fifth game running. This time, he set up Fabrizio Sartori to level the score against Central Córdoba.

Sebastián also made 2 key passes and delivered an accurate cross, creating 2 scoring chances. Villa completed 2 successful dribbles and won both aerial duels.

🔥 QUE JUGADA DE SEBASTIÁN VILLA.🇦🇷 INDEPENDIENTE RIVADAVIA EMPATA 1-1 A CENTRAL CÓRDOBA. pic.twitter.com/6H1T6owBUv

— JS (@juegosimple__) April 29, 2025

The 17-year-old Argentine wonderkid found the net for the second consecutive match, this time with a spectacular long-range free-kick against his side’s arch-rivals. Mastantuono nearly bagged a brace, but in the second half, after going one-on-one with the keeper, he lobbed the ball over both the goalkeeper and the crossbar.

Against Boca, Mastantuono completed 4 successful dribbles, made a key pass, won an aerial duel, drew 2 fouls, and registered both an interception and a tackle.

En efecto 💎🎬 pic.twitter.com/zFGUvXSaV6

— River Plate (@RiverPlate) April 27, 2025

Thanks to the 27-year-old Argentine, the “Academia” snatched a win from Defensa y Justicia. Maximiliano equalized in the 72nd minute and, 16 minutes later, set up Gastón Martínez for the match-winner.

Salas also won 9 of 11 ground duels, completed 5 successful dribbles—including two inside the opponent’s box when he scored his goal.

🇦🇷📊 Maximiliano Salas ante Defensa y Justicia:➟ Gol.➟ Asistencia.➟ 1º en regates completados (5/5).➟ 1º en faltas recibidas (3). pic.twitter.com/JNOFNw0onN

— JS (@juegosimple__) April 29, 2025

Under his guidance, River Plate secured an emotionally charged Superclásico victory over Boca—their second straight with Gallardo at the helm. His team ended their arch-rival’s three-match winning streak, handed Boca their third defeat in the Apertura, and triggered the departure of Fernando Gago as the “blue-and-golds” coach.

Tactical superiority, dominance from the first whistle, and smart use of the flanks allowed River Plate to control proceedings and extend their unbeaten run to six matches. Gallardo once again proved his ability to prepare his team not only physically, but also mentally—especially for the most high-pressure showdowns.

MG ✍️🤍❤️🤍 pic.twitter.com/XxMRwxAgcX

— River Plate (@RiverPlate) April 28, 2025

But it's not so straightforward. Dailysports has highlighted several reasons why the new Club World Cup might not be such a bad idea after all.

• Also read: Everything you need to know about the Africa Cup of Nations U20 2025: who will play, where and when the matches will take place

Let's start with the obvious. More matches = more money. More top-tier matches = even more money.

You can find numerous complaints about FIFA's idea from representatives of Real Madrid and Manchester City. That is, from clubs that don't particularly need additional funding. But, for example, representatives of Bayern Munich, which isn't controlled by a single businessman or sheikhs, speak exclusively about the importance of the Club World Cup.

The prize fund for the Club World Cup is 1 billion dollars. Nothing like this has ever been seen in club football history. The winner will earn around 100 million euros, almost twice what the UEFA Champions League winner gets. The maximum amount a winner can earn if they win all matches is 125 million dollars.

The total prize fund is distributed as follows:

• Group stage: 2 million dollars for a win, 1 million per club for a draw
• Round of 16: +7.5 million
• Quarter-finals: +13.125 million
• Semi-finals: +21 million
• Runner-up: +30 million
• Champion: +40 million

425 million will be distributed among all participants, regardless of their results.

And while for European representatives such prizes will be just a pleasant bonus to their large budgets, for representatives from other continents, this money is almost an annual budget.

Brazilian, African, and Asian clubs will be able to invest the earned money in developing their facilities and improving academies. In the future, this will help nurture more new players who will go on to conquer Europe.

The Club World Cup will allow football to develop worldwide. And these are not just populist words.

It's hard to assess the level of players from Brazilian, Japanese, and African clubs when they play exclusively on the domestic stage. It's a different story against the backdrop of Europe's best clubs.

The Club World Cup is an excellent opportunity for players to sell themselves to Europe. Some may shine and join a top club, while others might receive an invitation from one of the mid-level teams in France, Germany, or Italy.

The sky is the limit for @Masandawana at #FIFACWC 2025. 👆💛

— FIFA Club World Cup (@FIFACWC) April 23, 2025

And here we return again to the money issue, as less wealthy clubs will have the chance to profit from selling their leaders to Europe.

In recent years, there's been a noticeable increase in the number of football legends finishing their careers in other countries. While it used to be mainly Saudi Arabia and the USA, now such players can even be seen in Mexico.

The Club World Cup 2025 will be the penultimate major tournament for Lionel Messi and the last for Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets. We'll see Sergio Ramos and Thiago Silva at top-level competition for the last time.

⏪💙 @Rayados rewind... #FIFACWC

— FIFA Club World Cup (@FIFACWC) April 26, 2025

Recently, rumors have even surfaced that the legendary Mats Hummels, who announced his retirement, might sign a short-term contract with Borussia Dortmund to play in the Club World Cup and replace the injured Nico Schlotterbeck.

Unfortunately, Al-Nassr didn't make it to the tournament, so we won't see Cristiano Ronaldo in the USA. Although there were rumors that some club might sign him on a short-term contract.

The safety situation in the world, unfortunately, is extremely unstable. This is especially true for the USA, where the national team World Cup will be held a year later.

Contrary to many predictions, the Club World Cup will undoubtedly have excellent attendance. There will be a particularly large influx from Mexico and South American countries, where fans have a relatively short distance to travel.

But there are indeed problems. It's no coincidence that Messi's security guard, who was banned from running on the field in MLS matches, asks not to make such a mistake. According to him, in the 20 months they've been in the USA, 16 people have rushed onto the field. This is a problem that needs to be addressed before the World Cup.

These matches will be an excellent opportunity for American law enforcement agencies to test stadium safety, and if any issues are identified, they'll have a whole year to address them.

The opinion that there will be too few top matches due to the large number of teams not from Europe is somewhat mistaken. In the group stage, there won't be many games between European representatives, but their matches with teams from South America certainly won't be dull.

🎟️ @ManCity 🎟️ @ChelseaFC Destination: #FIFACWC 2025. 🚆

— FIFA Club World Cup (@FIFACWC) April 22, 2025

But in the playoffs, it's highly likely we'll see a simplified version of the UEFA Champions League. Most likely, clubs like Real Madrid, Manchester City, Chelsea, Inter, PSG, Atletico, and Bayern will advance. Matches between them in the decisive stages certainly won't be boring and will gather a significant audience both at the stadium and in front of screens.

The tournament features 13 teams divided into three groups. Group A will have five teams, while Groups B and C will each have four. The top two teams from each group, along with the two best third-placed teams, will advance to the knockout stages, starting with the quarter-finals.

• Also read: Everything you need to know about the Africa U20 Cup of Nations 2025: who is playing, where and when the matches will take place

Nigeria remains the absolute record holder with seven gold medals, although their last victory was in 2015.

The main broadcasters of the tournament in Africa will be beIN Sports, Canal+, and SuperSport. In Egypt, the broadcast will be provided by the ON Time Sports network.

Additionally, the Africa U20 Cup of Nations matches will be available on CAF TV and FIFA TV on YouTube.

Furthermore, the following countries and broadcasters may acquire the rights to broadcast the AFCON 2025 U20 tournament:

• Ivory Coast — RTI
• Congo — Tele Congo
• Senegal — RTS
• Uganda — UBC
• Tanzania — Azam
• Nigeria — AfroSport TV
• Mali — ORTM
• Cameroon — CRTV

𝟭𝟯 teams. 𝟭 dream. 🏆A new chapter of the #TotalEnergiesAFCONU20 is soon to be revealed. ⚽ pic.twitter.com/MnwD3MnLXK

— CAF_Online (@CAF_Online) April 25, 2025

Reminder: Our editorial team has prepared for you the full schedule, results, and standings of the Africa U20 Cup of Nations 2025.

The qualifying tournament took place in the fall of 2024. In it, 48 teams were divided into six zones based on regional principles, according to the different sub-confederations that are part of CAF.

At the time of qualification, the Egyptian national team, where the tournament will be held, was not the host, so they had to go through the qualification sieve. In addition to them, 12 more teams will play: Morocco, Tunisia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Ghana, Nigeria, DR Congo, CAR, Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, and Zambia.

Note that the Senegal national team is the current tournament winner, which was held in 2023. There are also two debutants: Sierra Leone and Kenya.

• Also read: 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations: schedule, results and standings

Additionally, the initial list of participants included the Congo national team, but due to government interference in the federation's affairs, the team was disqualified from participation, and the CAR team replaced them.

Initially, the host was supposed to be Côte d'Ivoire, but in March 2025, the country refused to hold the tournament, automatically losing the direct spot as the host. They were immediately replaced by Egypt, which also vied for the hosting rights.

Thus, four stadiums were determined to host the tournament, two of them in Cairo (International Stadium and June 30 Stadium). One hosting stadium is located in Ismailia (Suez Canal Stadium) and another in Suez (Suez Stadium).

𝗥𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀. 𝗥𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗼 𝗴𝗹𝗼𝗿𝘆. 🌟Our future talents are ready to shine at the #TotalEnergiesAFCONU20! ✨ pic.twitter.com/BQkP307II3

— CAF_Online (@CAF_Online) April 23, 2025

The 13 participating teams were divided into three groups. Group A has five teams, while groups B and C have four each. The top two teams from each group, along with the two best-ranked third-place teams, will advance to the playoffs.

Then it will proceed to a standard knockout tournament starting with the quarter-finals. Note that all semi-finalists of the tournament will earn the right to represent Africa at the U-20 World Cup in Chile, as CAF has secured four spots in the global tournament.

The tournament kicks off on April 27 with matches in Group A, as it has five teams. Groups B and C have four teams each, so their matches will start later, on May 1 and 2, respectively.

The group stage will last until May 9 inclusive. The quarter-final matches will be held on May 12, the semi-finals on May 15, and the final and third-place match on May 18.

On the first day of play, Necaxa narrowly defeated Puebla away.

On the second day, América thrashed Mazatlán, scoring five unanswered goals. Toluca and Cruz Azul ended in a draw, each scoring two goals. Tigres defeated Pumas. Atlas and Chivas played to a draw.

On the third day, Tijuana delivered a crushing defeat to Santos Laguna away, scoring four goals, San Luis snatched victory from Pachuca, León lost at home to Monterrey, and Querétaro, playing with a man advantage, defeated Juárez away.

• Goalkeeper: Esteban Andrada (Monterrey)

The 34-year-old Argentine kept a clean sheet for the second consecutive match. In the game against León, he made three saves and interceptions, came out successfully twice, cleared the ball once, punched it away once, and won an aerial duel.

• Left back: Jesús Gallardo (Toluca)

The 30-year-old Mexican scored in his second consecutive match. At his position, Jesús became the best player in the Clausura by the goal+assist system. He has scored 3 goals and made 4 assists.

In the game against Cruz Azul, Gallardo also made 3 clearances and 4 tackles. He provided 3 key passes and 2 long passes, and made 2 accurate crosses. Jesús won 10 of 12 duels on the ground and in the air, forcing opponents to commit fouls three times.

📹 | Los Diablos tienen estas cosas que conquistan 🥰Vean cómo anotaron su segundo gol.Videos que da gusto ver. @TolucaFC 2-2 @CruzAzul 👹 🆚🚂#Jornada17 #Clausura2025 | #LaLigaDeLaAfición https://t.co/mi1uanmsEZ pic.twitter.com/4qmzOon7fI

— Liga BBVA MX (@LigaBBVAMX) April 20, 2025

• Center back: Alexis Peña (Necaxa)

The 29-year-old Mexican made 6 clearances and one interception in the match against Puebla. Alexis won one aerial duel, delivered 50 (94%) accurate passes, three of which were long and one was a key pass.

Tres puntos y la ilusión de seguir luchando hasta el final... ¡Vamos, carajo! 🗣️#FuerzaRayos ⚡ pic.twitter.com/hj1sy3uBrC

— Club Necaxa (@ClubNecaxa) April 19, 2025

• Right back: Jaime Gómez (Querétaro)

The 31-year-old Mexican registered his first goal involvement in the Clausura: an assist. In the match against Juárez, Jaime recorded 5 clearances and 2 tackles. Gómez provided 2 key passes and one long pass, created a goal-scoring opportunity, and won 3 out of 3 aerial duels.

🔵⚫ 𝐆𝐎𝐋 𝐃𝐄 𝐐𝐔𝐄𝐑𝐄𝐓𝐀𝐑𝐎 ⚫🔵Jaime Gómez passa e ADONIS PRECIADO amplia o placar na fronteira 🟢 Juárez 0x2 Querétaro 🔵#LigaMXBrasilpic.twitter.com/q5L0FDzzmu

— LIGA MX BRASIL 🇲🇽🇧🇷 (@LigaMexicanaBR) April 21, 2025

• Left midfielder: Carlos Rotondi (Cruz Azul)

The 27-year-old Argentine was involved in both of the "Cementeros" goals against Toluca. In the 2nd minute, Carlos provided an assist, and in stoppage time of the first half, he scored himself.

Rotondi delivered one key pass and two long passes, and created another goal-scoring opportunity. He also recorded one tackle and one clearance, one successful dribble, and won two ground duels.

#VIDEO 🎥 | Con este golazo de Carlos Rotondi, @CruzAzul 🚂 logra el empate (2-2) 🆚 @TolucaFC 👿Los Diablos finalizan en la cima con 37 puntos y la Máquina terceros con 33 unidades ✅#TribunaDeportes | #LigaMX pic.twitter.com/fbMkxwS0wQ

— Tribuna Deportes ⚽️🏈🏀⚾️🥊 (@Tribunadeportes) April 20, 2025

• Central midfielder: Álvaro Fidalgo (América)

In the match against Mazatlán, the 28-year-old Spaniard scored his second brace in the Clausura. With seven goals, he shares the title of América's top scorer with Víctor Dávila. Fidalgo could have scored a hat-trick but missed the chance for a third goal.

In addition, Álvaro delivered 87 (93%) accurate passes, including 6 long ones. He created two goal-scoring opportunities, drew one foul, and made one clearance and one tackle.

¡Maguito! 8️⃣🪄 pic.twitter.com/Nel2gT3d7s

— Club América (@ClubAmerica) April 20, 2025

• Central midfielder: Ramiro Árciga (Tijuana)

Until the last round of the Clausura, the 20-year-old Mexican had no goal contributions. However, in 75 minutes against Santos Laguna, Árciga provided a hat-trick of assists.

Additionally, Ramiro made 7 accurate crosses, 5 key passes, one long pass, and created a goal-scoring opportunity. He successfully dribbled twice, drew two fouls, made two tackles, and one interception.

Ramiro Árciga 🇲🇽 (20), otra de las grandes promesas del futbol mexicano, realizó 3 asistencias ante Santos en la última fecha del Clausura 2025. Además de dar 5 pases clave, completar 7/13 centros y 6/13 duelos.No hay que perderle la pista. Jugador a seguir.🔋 pic.twitter.com/squiXxJxak

— Julio Rodríguez (@julioordz10) April 21, 2025

• Right midfielder: Hugo Camberos (Chivas)

The 18-year-old Mexican completed 2 out of 2 successful dribble attempts against Atlas, won 14 out of 15 ground duels, and one out of two aerial duels. Camberos made 6 tackles and one clearance, as well as two interceptions. Atlas players were forced to foul Hugo six times to stop him.

Hugo Camberos 🇲🇽 (18) vs Atlas:- 17/21 pases precisos (81) 👟 - 1/4 centros completados 🎯 - 2/2 intentos de regate 🪄 - 14/15 duelos en el suelo ganados 🧱- 1/2 duelos aéreos 🚀 - 6 faltas recibidas 🚫- 1 despeje ⚔️- 2 intercepciones 🧲- 6 entradas🛡️Que partido se… pic.twitter.com/rca7hsIBBJ

— Julio Rodríguez (@julioordz10) April 20, 2025

• Left winger: Alejandro Zendejas (América)

The 27-year-old American of Mexican descent recorded a brace of assists. With six assists, Alejandro became the club's best in this statistic in the Clausura.

Also in the game against Mazatlán, Zendejas won a penalty, created another goal-scoring opportunity, delivered 67 (93%) accurate passes, drew three fouls, and made two tackles.

¡Se amplía nuestra ventaja! 🦅🔝Contundente cabezazo de Álvaro Fidalgo a la portería 😮‍💨🔥 pic.twitter.com/NSWVwonmki

— Club América (@ClubAmerica) April 19, 2025

• Right winger: Jesús Corona (Monterrey)

The 32-year-old Mexican was involved in both "Rayados" goals, recording two assists. This is also Corona's second brace of assists in this Clausura.

In the match against León, Jesús completed 7 successful dribbles, provided 3 key passes and 3 crosses, as well as one long pass. Corona made one clearance and one interception.

Lo de Tecatito es... 🔥🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/dsj0g6KZKa

— Rayados (@Rayados) April 21, 2025

• Forward: Víctor Dávila (América)

Like Fidalgo, the 27-year-old Chilean scored two goals against Mazatlán, one of which was a penalty. Víctor also missed the chance to score a third goal.

Dávila provided one key pass and one long pass. He won 3 out of 5 duels on the ground and in the air, forced opponents to foul twice, and completed one successful dribble.

¡El primero fue para el Club América! 🦅Así se abrió el marcador a nuestro favor 🔥 pic.twitter.com/eFEJQnMv0U

— Club América (@ClubAmerica) April 19, 2025

• Coach: Vicente Sánchez (Cruz Azul)

Until the 17th round, Toluca had hit excellent form, winning six consecutive matches. However, Sánchez's squad managed to break this impressive streak, securing a draw.

In three months, Vicente transformed the team, inherited in a difficult state after Martín Anselmi's departure, into the season leader, scoring 75 points and winning a prestigious prize of one million dollars for first place in the final table of the Mexican Championship.

Dailysports decided to recall the grandest comebacks in the history of Europe's most prestigious club tournament.

• QUIZ. Real Madrid vs Arsenal: do you remember the players who played for these teams?

Arguably the most famous remontada in football history. Barcelona remains the only team to advance to the next round of the Champions League after losing by a 4-goal margin in the first leg.

In 2017, the away goals rule was still in effect in the Champions League, so when Edinson Cavani made it 1-3 in the 62nd minute, it seemed Barcelona had no chance. But in the 88th minute, Neymar scored the fourth goal for Luis Enrique's team, three minutes later he converted a penalty, and in the final seconds, Sergi Roberto scored the most important goal of his career.

Over 90,000 fans at Camp Nou were in such ecstasy that seismologists even recorded a micro-earthquake at the moment of the sixth goal by the Blaugranas.

The evening was only marred by controversial decisions made by German referee Deniz Aytekin, which many fans still discuss.

However, in the next round, the euphoria from the remontada turned into the disappointment of being knocked out of the Champions League by Juventus.

And again, Barcelona. But this time in a different role. At Camp Nou, the Catalans crushed Jurgen Klopp's team, and the legendary Lionel Messi had a phenomenal match. The return leg didn't seem to pose any problems for Barcelona, as Liverpool was missing Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino due to injuries.

But who would have thought that Firmino's backup, Divock Origi, would become the hero of the return leg. Already in the seventh minute, the Belgian put the Merseysiders ahead, reigniting the intrigue.

At halftime, Jurgen Klopp made a crucial decision, replacing Andy Robertson with Georginio Wijnaldum. It was the Dutchman who equalized the tie, scoring two goals in quick succession – in the 54th and 56th minutes. Wijnaldum's second goal was assisted by Xherdan Shaqiri, who replaced Mohamed Salah.

What happened in the 79th minute will forever go down in football history. That iconic corner from Trent Alexander-Arnold and Origi's double. Liverpool's right-back made a deceptive move and quickly took the corner, surprising Barca's defense. Just days ago, Marc-André ter Stegen admitted that this goal is the most unpleasant moment in his career.

Ousmane Dembele could have saved Barcelona from disaster, but he missed a golden opportunity, and Liverpool advanced to the final, where they eventually defeated Tottenham.

This was the AC Milan that all of Europe feared. The legendary team of Carlo Ancelotti with Kaka, Pirlo, Gattuso, Dida, Cafu, Seedorf, Shevchenko, and Inzaghi truly dominated everyone, and they approached the matches with Deportivo as the obvious favorites. At San Siro, the Spanish team scored first but then conceded four times. It seemed that any talk of advancing was out of the question.

“Miracles happen. They often occur when you least expect them,” said Deportivo's head coach Javier Irureta after the match. His words turned out to be prophetic.

In La Coruña, Walter Pandiani put Deportivo ahead in the 5th minute, and as it turned out, this goal became a catalyst for the entire team. Deportivo believed in success, and before halftime, the legendary Juan Carlos Valeron made it 2-0, and Albert Luque scored the third. In just one half, Milan found themselves chasing the game, as Irureta's team had the advantage of an away goal.

The Rossoneri left their defenses too exposed, leading to a fourth goal by Fran Gonzalez. Interestingly, his son Nico now plays for Manchester City.

In the semi-final, Deportivo was defeated by Porto, who sensationally won the Champions League under Jose Mourinho's leadership.

Ernesto Valverde managed to win La Liga twice with Barcelona, but his journey with the team in the Champions League is associated only with pain for the fans. A year before the disastrous match at Anfield, Barcelona suffered another setback.

The Catalans were clear favorites against a rather modest Roma, and at home, they easily defeated the Italian team 4-1. But at the Stadio Olimpico, perhaps the best match in the modern history of the “Wolves” took place.

As with most great comebacks, it all started with an early goal – Edin Dzeko opened the scoring in the 6th minute. Roma understood that they needed to play cautiously in defense, as any away goal by Barcelona would end their chances. Eusebio Di Francesco's team played very compactly, and in the 58th minute, they earned a penalty, which Daniele De Rossi converted.

Only after this did Roma start playing more adventurously, increasingly threatening Barcelona's goal. Ultimately, in the 82nd minute, the Romans earned a corner, which was delivered by Cengiz Ünder, and center-back Kostas Manolas headed Roma into the semi-final.

Interestingly, in the next round, Roma almost repeated their achievement. After a 2-5 defeat in Liverpool, they won 4-2 in Rome but had enough chances to take the match to extra time.

At first glance, this comeback might not seem particularly remarkable when looking solely at the scoreline. However, the drama of this encounter is astonishing. The match at the Etihad was incredibly intense, with Real playing catch-up the entire 90 minutes, managing to score three times.

At the Santiago Bernabeu, Pep Guardiola's team contained Real's attack, and in the 73rd minute, Riyad Mahrez opened the scoring. At that moment, it seemed nothing could prevent Man City from reaching the Champions League final for the first time in history.

As the match neared its conclusion, instead of the match score, a title appeared with the teams' chances of progressing: Real Madrid – 1%, Manchester City – 99%. And 1% was enough.

The key role was played by the substitution of Rodrygo for Toni Kroos. It was the Brazilian who pulled one back in the 90th minute and then scored again a minute later, sending the game into extra time. Rodrygo's goals shocked Man City so much that it took them 5 minutes of extra time to concede a penalty and let Karim Benzema score the decisive goal.

In the final, Real Madrid narrowly defeated Liverpool thanks to a goal by Vinicius Junior.

This match serves as the most eloquent lesson for Arsenal. Against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu, losing focus even for a second is unforgivable, as this team does not let such moments go unpunished.

In total, throughout the history of the Champions League, there have been only 4 instances where a team has come back after a 3 or more goal deficit in the first leg. And Real Madrid has never managed to do it. Can they rewrite their history today?

The most high-profile conflict recently has been the case involving Barcelona midfielder Dani Olmo. A contentious administrative court rejected the employer association's request to temporarily suspend the decision of the Higher Sports Council on licensing Olmo and Pau Victor as Barcelona players until the end of their contracts.

According to As, this matter will now be resolved in other courts and through a completely different procedure with longer timelines than the decision of the Higher Sports Council. Therefore, Barcelona is very likely to finish the season with their players.

• See also: Tebas, amid complaints about refereeing, called Real a “whiny club”

Meanwhile, Real Madrid's grievances are specifically directed at Tebas himself, and they are also being addressed through the Higher Sports Council, or more precisely, its second instance. The "Merengues" complained about Tebas's tweets, in which he breached the confidentiality of an anonymous survey in 2023.

The consequences for the La Liga president could be severe: a fine ranging from three to 30 thousand, public censure, suspension from work for two to 15 years, and/or dismissal.

Incidentally, Barcelona also had similar grievances against Tebas when La Liga issued a statement about reducing the salary cap of the Catalan club. At that time, "Blaugrana" also intended to file a complaint, but it did not come to that as the league retracted its statement.

WOL next fixtures: TOT, mun, LEI

Matheus Cunha has finally served his four-match suspension and is now ready to return to his usual level of play to once again bring points to fantasy managers. Even while being out of the squad during these matches, Cunha didn't lose his playing rhythm — he received a call-up to the Brazilian national team, where he scored his debut goal for the Seleção in a match against Argentina.

Without exaggeration, Matheus is one of Wolverhampton's best players this season. If it weren't for frequent suspensions and red cards, his fantasy results could have been much more impressive. Cunha is the regular taker of both penalties and free kicks, adding extra value for fantasy managers. His low ownership percentage makes him an ideal differential for this part of the season.

Where next for Matheus Cunha? 🤔⬇️ pic.twitter.com/gSKfIfmLQq

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) March 30, 2025

As for the upcoming matches, Tottenham will visit Molineux in the midst of their Europa League semi-final battle. Regardless of the result of the first match against Eintracht, Ange Postecoglou is likely to rest key players, creating additional opportunities for Wolverhampton players. Next up for the Wolves is Manchester United, who will also be focused on the Europa League. This stretch concludes with a match against Leicester — a team currently in crisis and looking even worse than Southampton, making them a great target for opposing attackers.

• Also read: Manchester United targets Matheus Cunha

BHA next fixtures: LEI, bre, WHU

Despite two consecutive losses, Brighton remains in the hunt for European spots. The team is just two wins away from Newcastle, who close out the league's top five.

With Jorginho Rutter injured and Evan Ferguson loaned to West Ham, Danny Welbeck has no competition for a starting spot with the Seagulls. In the last match against Crystal Palace, Danny played the full 90 minutes and was the most dangerous player on both teams. His xG was 0.87, and the goal he scored will surely boost his confidence in the upcoming games.

It's important to note that Welbeck also takes free kicks well. He's not as skilled as Declan Rice, but his long-range shots can be quite dangerous. If Joao Pedro is not on the field, Welbeck will also take penalties, making him an even more valuable asset for fantasy managers.

Danny Welbeck, @OfficialBHAFC's new all-time top goalscorer in the Premier League 👏 pic.twitter.com/k7LB88FzQc

— Premier League (@premierleague) April 5, 2025

The clash against a struggling Leicester in the next round could offer Danny Welbeck a chance for double-digit fantasy points. Additionally, matches against teams like Brentford and West Ham, who have already lost their tournament motivation, also look quite promising.

CHE next fixtures: IPS, ful, EVE

Nicolas Jackson has returned just in time for Chelsea's most crucial stretch of the season. Without him, the Blues' attacking line faced clear difficulties: in the absence of a natural forward, the coaching staff had to rely on Christopher Nkunku, and key attacking contributions often came from second-string players like Marc Cucurella and Enzo Fernandez.

Particular attention should be given to the slump in Cole Palmer's game, which was perhaps his most challenging period since joining Chelsea. Against such difficulties, Jackson's return can significantly alter the team's attacking dynamics and restore efficiency in the final phase of attacks.

The upcoming schedule looks quite favorable. An important note: four of the next five matches, including the return leg against Legia, will be played in London, which simplifies logistics and allows for better preparation. Moreover, Chelsea's motivation remains high, and it seems the team will maintain this attitude until the end of the championship, aiming to secure Champions League qualification for next season.

• Also read: Fantasy PL: best attacking differentials for the season's finale

However, there is a factor causing some concern — the rotation policy employed by Enzo Maresca. In the previous round, for example, he fielded a semi-reserve squad against Brentford, although this decision can be explained by preparation for the upcoming first quarter-final match of the Conference League against Legia in Poland. Apparently, for the Italian specialist, it's crucial to win a trophy in his debut season at the helm of the club.

Before today, Cole Palmer has played 4738 PL minutes for Chelsea with Nicolas Jackson, and 670 without.It's not a huge sample without, but his production is remarkably better with Jackson, especially around chance creation.Probably not a coincidence.#CFC pic.twitter.com/HMfzu3kgnN

— Spencer Mossman (@fc_mossman) April 3, 2025

MCI next fixtures: CRY, eve + AVL, BLANCK

Selecting a Manchester City player is intriguing primarily because Pep Guardiola's team will have a DGW in game week 33. In this context, it's wise to consider several City representatives to strengthen your squads.

In addition to the usual and popular options like Marmoush and Joško Gvardiol, it's worth paying attention to Savio. The Brazilian is in excellent form and stands out among his more expensive attacking partners like Phil Foden or Kevin De Bruyne, thanks to his significantly more affordable price.

Savio consistently gets playing time, enjoying Guardiola's trust. The coach actively uses him on the right flank of the attack, where the Brazilian regularly poses a threat to opponents' goals. In the last round, Pep gave him a rest, leaving him on the bench in the Manchester derby, but in the previous game against Leicester, Savio confirmed his effectiveness by providing an assist and achieving a 1.0 xGI.

• Will Man City be among them?: The EPL will have at least 5 teams in the UEFA Champions League 2025/2026

His season's average expected goal involvement (xGI) stands at 0.62 per match, an excellent result for a player of this price category. Considering the tight schedule and the wide rotation possibilities in Manchester City's attacking line, Savio could be a very profitable differential option for the upcoming weeks.

Savinho For Manchester City 24/25 All Comps🥇Assists (10)🥇xA (7.5)🥇Passes into PA (62)🥇Shot-Creating Actions (128)🥇Goal-Creating Actions (18)🥇Progressive Passes Rec (317)🥈Key Passes (53)🥈xAG (7.8)🥈Progressive Carries (165)🥈Carries into the Penalty Area (95)… pic.twitter.com/WB4Ec4iclP

— Sky Blue Times (@theskybluetimes) April 3, 2025

AVL next fixtures: sou, NEW + mci, BLANCK

Donyell Malen is a real find for your fantasy teams, and his current ownership percentage could be the key to success in your mini-league. Look at his impressive stats: in just 62 minutes over the last two matches, he scored 2 goals and brought his owners a total of 16 fantasy points!

Unai Emery's team still has a chance to reach the Champions League semi-finals, despite their 1-3 defeat in Paris. The return leg is set for next Tuesday, and it's highly likely that the main squad will be preparing specifically for this match. Donyell Malen won't be able to help Aston Villa in European competitions, as he has already played in the Champions League for Borussia Dortmund, making him an even more attractive choice for fantasy managers in the season's closing stretch.

• Also read: Will Rashford return to Man United? The club has made a decision

In this context, Malen has good prospects to shine in the upcoming EPL match against Southampton, who are already guaranteed to leave the top division. The opponent's low tournament motivation and possible rotation in Emery's attacking line add arguments in favor of Malen getting more playing time and using it to maximum effect.

On the first matchday, Querétaro and León played to a draw, each scoring one goal, Necaxa defeated Tijuana away, while Puebla and Tigres did not score.

On the second matchday, Atlas and Juárez played to a draw, Pachuca ended América's five-match unbeaten streak, San Luis was stronger than Mazatlán, Monterrey defeated Chivas, and Cruz Azul overcame Pumas.

On the third matchday, Toluca was stronger than Santos Laguna.

• Goalkeeper: Óscar Jiménez (León)

The 36-year-old goalkeeper proved he's ready to become the mainstay at León. Though he conceded one goal, he helped the team avoid a fourth consecutive defeat. Jiménez made 7 saves, 6 of which were inside the box. Óscar delivered 21 (95%) accurate passes, two of which were long.

🧤 Óscar Jiménez registró 7 ATAJADAS (6 de ellas dentro del área) y evitó que León CAIGA frente a Querétaro.🤔 ¿Debe ser el portero titular de cara a lo que viene? pic.twitter.com/THNWpflv0j

— dataref México (@dataref_mx) April 5, 2025

• Left-back: Jesús Gallardo (Toluca)

The 30-year-old Mexican played a key role in the victory over Santos Laguna. Jesús provided two assists for the second consecutive game.

Gallardo delivered 37 (97%) accurate passes, including 4 key passes and one long pass, as well as one cross. He won all three aerial duels and made a successful dribble attempt.

⚔️🇲🇽 Jesús Gallardo vs Santos Laguna:➜ 2 asistencias➜ 5/6 duelos ganados➜ 1º en chances creadas [4]➜ 1º en efectividad de pases [97%]➜ 1º en duelos aéreos ganados [3/3]➜ NO FUE GAMBETEADO pic.twitter.com/hZBnwa1XN4

— FutbolScan (@futbolscan) April 7, 2025

• Center-back: Óscar Manzanares (Querétaro)

The 29-year-old defender made 9 clearances and 2 tackles, as well as blocking one opponent's shot. Óscar delivered 27 (98%) accurate passes. All 4 of his long passes reached their target. Out of 9 ground and aerial duels, Manzanares won 7.

🐓 El GRAN PARTIDO de Óscar Manzanares frente a León:○ 1° en despejes (9).○ 2° en duelos ganados (7/9).○ 27/28 pases precisos. pic.twitter.com/eeYbqYMMy8

— dataref México (@dataref_mx) April 5, 2025

• Right-back: Ricardo Chávez (Monterrey)

The 30-year-old Mexican made 7 tackles and 5 clearances against Chivas, as well as blocking 2 shots and making 2 interceptions. He delivered 4 long passes and 1 key pass. Ricardo won 7 out of 10 ground duels and 2 out of 3 aerial duels.

Sin tanto cartel, sin tanto renombre, sin polémicas. El verdadero fichaje top del Monterrey hasta ahora es el señor: RICARDO CHÁVEZ 🇲🇽 pic.twitter.com/NWjCg6nxPU

— Soy Rayado 🌟 (@SomosRayados) April 6, 2025

• Left midfielder: Sébastien Salles-Lamonge (San Luis)

In the match against Mazatlán, the 26-year-old Frenchman first provided an assist and then converted a penalty. It's the second consecutive match where he recorded a goal and an assist. Salles-Lamonge has scored 6 goals and provided 2 assists this season.

Against Mazatlán, Sébastien delivered 39 (80%) accurate passes, including 3 key passes and 3 long passes, 2 crosses, and made one interception.

¡GOOOOOOOOL ⚽❤️! Por la via del penal, Sebastien Salles-lamonge hizo vibrar el Estadio Alfonso Lastras Ramírez. El marcador al momento ADSL 2-1 Mazatlán 👊💥#LigaMX #AtléticodeSanLuis #MazatlánFC pic.twitter.com/kFG9XF5aaU

— Plano Deportivo (@PlanoDeportivo) April 6, 2025

• Central midfielder: José Paradela (Necaxa)

The 26-year-old Argentine secured “The Lightning's” 9th victory in the championship against Tijuana with a stunning long-range strike.

José delivered 3 key passes, made 2 accurate crosses, and completed a successful dribble. Paradela made 2 interceptions and 2 tackles, as well as one clearance.

📹 Paradela anotó un golazo para recuperar la ventaja para los hidrocálidos. 👊@Xolos 1-2 @ClubNecaxa 🐕🆚⚡️#Jornada14 #Clausura2025 #LaLigaDeLaAfición pic.twitter.com/9ttJ1Y1aW4

— Liga BBVA MX (@LigaBBVAMX) April 5, 2025

• Right midfielder: Marcel Ruiz (Toluca)

At the end of the first half against Santos Laguna, the 24-year-old Mexican doubled the “Red Devils'” lead with a beautiful long-range shot. This was Ruiz's second goal of the current campaign.

Marcel made 3 tackles and 2 clearances, as well as 2 interceptions, winning 6 out of 10 ground and aerial duels. He delivered 47 (91%) accurate passes, including 2 long and one key pass.

Lo de Marcel, ¡una locura! 🔥 La puso, en dónde quiso ponerla. 🎯 ¡Diabólica anotación!@TolucaFC 2-0 #Santos | 👹🆚⚔️#Jornada14 | #Clausura2025 #LaLigaDeLaAfición pic.twitter.com/qUK5KE6yOg

— Liga BBVA MX (@LigaBBVAMX) April 7, 2025

• Left winger: Carlos Rotondi (Cruz Azul)

The 28-year-old Argentine scored 2 out of 3 goals for “The Cement Makers” against Pumas. Carlos last scored a brace in the summer of last year.

Rotondi delivered one key and one long pass, as well as two accurate crosses, one successful dribble, and one clearance.

Brillante asistencia del Toro. 🫡 Atinadísima definición de Rodo. 🔥* Segundo doblete de Rotondi en la #LigaBBVAMX, el anterior fue contra #Rayados en julio de 2024.@CruzAzul 3-1 #Pumas | 🚂🆚🐾#Jornada14 | #Clausura2025 #LaLigaDeLaAfición pic.twitter.com/mfVgZdhoGM

— Liga BBVA MX (@LigaBBVAMX) April 6, 2025

• Right winger: James Rodríguez (León)

The 33-year-old León captain delivered 74 (86%) accurate passes, including 9 long, 5 key, and 6 crosses. James created one goal-scoring opportunity and provided an assist.

This is his 6th assist of the season. The Colombian ranks second in the championship for assists. Rodríguez won 4 out of 6 ground duels and forced the opponent to foul him 4 times.

However, there was a negative moment in the match. James showed his frustration with the refereeing by throwing a boot after a foul, earning him a yellow card.

Sexta asistencia de James Rodríguez 🇨🇴 en la Liga Mx. Es el segundo mejor en pases gol en el campeonato.pic.twitter.com/0YMhFgvdrR

— Alfonso Hernández (@AlfonsoH) April 5, 2025

• Forward: Roberto De La Rosa (Monterrey)

The 25-year-old Mexican made a decisive contribution to “The Striped Ones'” victory over Chivas. In the 9th minute, De La Rosa scored his first goal of the season. Nineteen minutes later, he assisted Germán Berterame, doubling Monterrey's lead.

Roberto also delivered 100% accurate passes, including 3 key passes, one long pass, and one cross. He won 2 out of 3 ground duels and forced fouls on himself twice.

🔥 ROBERTO DE LA ROSA, entre los jugadores de Monterrey, en la VICTORIA sobre Chivas:◗ 1 GOL.◗ 1 ASISTENCIA.◗ 1° en oportunidades creadas (3)◗ 9/9 PASES PRECISOS.⏰ SOLO JUGÓ 65 MINUTOS. pic.twitter.com/ojGrI0jRDi

— dataref México (@dataref_mx) April 6, 2025

• Forward: Salomón Rondón (Pachuca)

In the 20th minute of the match against América, the 35-year-old Venezuelan, receiving a brilliant pass from his own half by Jorge Berlanga, outran a defender and scored what turned out to be the winning goal. This is the captain of Pachuca's 6th goal in 13 matches this season.

¡Así fue el gol de Salomón Rondón con el que Pachuca se adelantó ante el América!#LigaMX #Clausura2025 pic.twitter.com/WqkctnijG2

— Fulbox (@fulboxOficial) April 5, 2025

• Coach: Guillermo Almada (Pachuca)

The success of the Uruguayan specialist's team is attributed to Almada's sound tactical preparation, which established a reliable defense. Additionally, Almada had the advantage since América didn't field their best lineup, keeping key players for the upcoming CONCACAF Champions League match.

Finally, the victory further confirmed Almada's coaching mastery in personal duels with América's coach André Jardine. In 12 personal encounters, the Uruguayan has won 6, with 4 draws and only two defeats.

🫡 Aquí seguimos en el camino… pic.twitter.com/pq7kVboHfE

— Club Pachuca (@Tuzos) April 6, 2025

On the first matchday, Necaxa defeated Querétaro, while Mazatlán, with a numerical advantage, triumphed over Atlas.

On the second matchday, Toluca proved stronger than Pachuca, Juárez scored two unanswered goals against Puebla, and América crushed Tigres. Chivas narrowly lost at home to Cruz Azul, while Tijuana won away at Monterrey.

On the third matchday, San Luis, trailing 0-2 by the 32nd minute, staged a comeback by scoring three times, while León, losing to Pumas, suffered their third consecutive defeat.

Introducing the symbolic team of the 13th round.

• See also: Vacant spot at the Club World Cup: who will replace León?

The 24-year-old Colombian kept a clean sheet for the second consecutive match (and third time this season). In the game against Chivas, he needed to make five saves and intercept two crosses to achieve this.

Mier also delivered 5 long passes, made one clearance, won two ground duels, and even completed a successful dribble.

¡Kevin Mier, figura indiscutible! 🧤Su actuación fue clave para la victoria: atajadas cruciales, salidas seguras y un juego de pies que liberó al equipo. 💙¡Un partidazo! pic.twitter.com/hZNCI4QOTb

— HistoriaAzul (@Historia_Azul) March 30, 2025

In the victory over Chivas, the 30-year-old Argentine made 13 clearances and 5 tackles, as well as one interception and one blocked shot. Piovi delivered 6 long and one key pass and emerged victorious in 6 out of 8 duels on the ground and in the air.

Quería poner esto hace media hora pero no quería mufar, que señor partido de Gonzalo Piovi, toda la parte defensiva la hizo a la perfección y cuando tenía que poner calma era el único que sabía salir jugando, juegazo. pic.twitter.com/CNzGYLEulC

— Pasion Celeste (@MakinaAzulMx) March 30, 2025

The captain of the "Lightning" made 13 clearances and one tackle against Querétaro. He completed 67 (97%) accurate passes, including 2 long balls. He won all 3 of his ground and aerial duels.

In the 81st minute, Peña scored to set the final score (2-0) of the match. Alexis last scored in the Mexican Championship (Apertura) in November 2023.

Perfecto su peinado y perfecta la peinada😎🪮Fanaticada del Necaxa, aquí les tenemos el segundo gol de la noche, el de su capitán, Alexis Peña.🫡@ClubNecaxa 2-0 @Club_Queretaro ⚡🆚🐔#Jornada13 #Clausura2025 #LaLigaDeLaAfición. pic.twitter.com/DSmLfwOB6I

— Liga BBVA MX (@LigaBBVAMX) March 29, 2025

The 26-year-old Mexican earned a penalty at the end of the first half, which Bryan Rodríguez converted, and in the 77th minute, assisted Víctor Dávila for the third goal of the "Eagles" against the "Tigers".

Álvarez also made 2 clearances and one tackle. He completed 23 (92%) accurate passes, 2 of which were long, and created one goal-scoring opportunity.

El partidazo de Kevin Álvarez de ayer @ClubAmerica , por algo llegó a ser el mejor lateral de la @LigaBBVAMX. pic.twitter.com/QPHescKuFe

— ℍ𝔸ℝ𝕋ℤ (ᑕ♥ᗩ) 💙🦅💛 (@17TITULOSDELIGA) March 30, 2025

The 16-year-old wunderkind scored his second career goal in the 83rd minute against Monterrey, securing three crucial points for the "Dogs".

Additionally, Mora completed 18 (82%) accurate passes, including 2 long and one key pass. He successfully completed two of his four dribbling attempts. Gilberto also won 7 out of 12 ground duels. Mora made 3 tackles and 3 interceptions.

Gol de Gilberto Mora (de 16 años, en Club Tijuana) ante Monterrey para el 2-1; narración de @AgomezlunaM pic.twitter.com/gqEIZpZM7u

— lilboimx (@lilboimx) March 30, 2025

In the match against Tigres, the 27-year-old Spaniard completed 42 (81%) accurate passes, including 9 long and 2 key passes. Álvaro made 2 out of 3 successful dribbles, won 6 out of 8 ground duels. Fidalgo made 2 interceptions and blocks, as well as 3 tackles.

In the 32nd minute, following Álvaro's pass, Bryan Rodríguez started the rout of Tigres.

🪄 ÁLVARO FIDALGO, entre los jugadores de América, en la GOLEADA vs. Tigres:◗ 1 ASISTENCIA.◗ 1º en regates completos (2).◗ 1º en duelos ganados (6).◗ 1º en recuperaciones (8).🔥 EL MAGUITO APARECE EN TODOS LADOS. pic.twitter.com/ag3OlLOADJ

— dataref México (@dataref_mx) March 30, 2025

The 23-year-old Brazilian made 3 key and one long pass against Santos Laguna, as well as one cross and created a goal-scoring chance. Vitinho completed 2 successful dribbles and won 6 ground duels. He forced opponents to foul him three times, made one interception and one tackle.

In the 70th minute, the Brazilian scored the winning goal, giving the "Red and Whites" a comeback victory.

Y como no quererlo, ¡si se despachó con un GOLAZO! 😍#Jornada13 #Clausura2025 #LaLigaDeLaAfición https://t.co/Ym84tqlSgw pic.twitter.com/7aw4fGzaDp

— Liga BBVA MX (@LigaBBVAMX) March 31, 2025

In the match against Pachuca, Angulo achieved a 100% conversion rate. In 64 minutes on the field, Angulo only struck twice at the opponent's goal. But both attempts resulted in goals for the "Gophers". Jesús also made 2 key and long passes.

📹 | Eso es trabajo en equipo 🙌Esos Escarlatas tuvieron paciencia, construyeron la jugada y el Canelo Angulo la concluyó con un golazo ⚽️.@TolucaFC 3-0 @Tuzos 👹 🆚 🌪️#Jornada13 #Clausura2025 #LaLigaDeLaAfición pic.twitter.com/J8dGAcmiCK

— Liga BBVA MX (@LigaBBVAMX) March 30, 2025

The captain of the "Red Devils" once again secured crucial three points for the team. This time he recorded an assist and scored a goal. In the last three games, Vega has 7 goal involvements.

Additionally, Alexis delivered 6 key and 4 long passes, and made 3 crosses. Vega completed 6 successful dribbles and won 12 ground duels. He also performed 3 tackles and one interception.

Pónganle correa a este pinche golazo de Alexis Vega, se convirtió en Lionel Messi y se quitó a todo el mundo para firmar esta obra de arte. Tiene que irse a Europa ya. 🇲🇽❤️pic.twitter.com/8HJldDnYhL

— Roberto Haz (@tudimebeto) March 30, 2025

In the game against Atlas, the 27-year-old Colombian completed 2 successful dribbles. He delivered 32 (91%) accurate passes, including 3 key and 4 long passes, and one cross. Benedetti also created a goal-scoring opportunity. Nicolás won 5 out of 7 ground duels and cleared the ball twice.

In the 27th minute, his precise free-kick equalized the score in the match, which eventually ended in a Mazatlán victory. This was Benedetti's third goal in the current tournament.

Y ahora un poema de gol💜✍🏻Autor de la obra: el botín derecho de Nicolás Benedetti, ¿o no, @MazatlanFC?⚓#Jornada13 #Clausura2025 #LaLigaDeLaAfición pic.twitter.com/cTJvaUzPU8

— Liga BBVA MX (@LigaBBVAMX) March 29, 2025

The 25-year-old Uruguayan scored 2 of América's 3 goals. In the 31st minute, he scored from open play, and 15 minutes later, he converted a penalty. This is Rodríguez's second brace in the current tournament.

⚡️DOBLETE Y BAÍLELE MI RASHITO⚡️🦅Brian Rodríguez está dando tremenda masterclass ante Tigres.⚽️ Dos pirulos en la primera parte.🔥 5 Goles y 3 asistencias en el torneo.⭐️ La figura en la goleada a Chivas.RAYITO EN SU PRIME 💛 pic.twitter.com/BjrhYfpjP5

— Futbol Total (@futboltotal) March 30, 2025

Despite being a newcomer on the coaching scene (only his third match as a coach) and Tijuana's difficult position as tournament outsiders, Saucedo masterfully exploited the vulnerabilities of the struggling "Striped" team.

Cirilo, serving as Tijuana's interim coach, called the victory a feat for his players, given the difference in team quality.

His tactical approach allowed "Xolos" to effectively use long passes and the speed of attacking players, as well as capitalize on Monterrey's defensive errors.

This victory not only lifted Tijuana off the bottom spot but also demonstrated Saucedo's ability to inspire the team to achieve a feat against a stronger opponent away from home.

Cómo empezó | Cómo vaCirilo Saucedo, toda una vida con @Xolos. pic.twitter.com/GLH2hmByhu

— TNT Sports México (@tntsportsmex) March 31, 2025

• Read also: Will an English giant take Daniel Munoz? Rumors about his future

CRY next fixtures: sou, BHA, mci, new, BOU

Crystal Palace is unlikely to seriously compete for European spots through the league, but Oliver Glasner's team is known for stepping up at the season's end. It's important to remember that the Eagles are still in the FA Cup race — this Saturday, they will play in the quarter-finals against Fulham. A win in this match will give Palace a double gameweek in GW33, automatically making their assets interesting for fantasy managers.

Particular attention should be paid to Jean-Philippe Mateta, who was showing outstanding form before his recent injury. In the last six gameweeks, the Frenchman scored 6 goals and provided 1 assist, making him one of the most prolific forwards in the league during this period.

Despite the injury sustained in the cup match against Millwall, there is every reason to believe that Mateta is ready to return. In his latest interview and social media, he hinted at his readiness to play in the upcoming cup match.

BREAKING: Jean-Philippe Mateta has been given the all-clear to play against Fulham in the FA Cup 🚨The striker is fully fit and will play wearing a special mask to protect his ear 🔙 pic.twitter.com/NMyTavkZHV

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) March 24, 2025

Additionally, it's important to remember the crucial bonus — Mateta is the designated penalty taker. If he returns to the field in the next gameweek and retains his starting position, with a potential double gameweek, he becomes a powerful differential and a promising budget striker for the season's end.

MCI next fixtures: LEI, mun, CRY, AVL, eve

The final stretch of the season is crucial for the Citizens, who risk missing out on a Champions League spot. One of the reasons for their inconsistent results could be the dip in form of Erling Haaland £14.8 – the forward, who was usually a reliable captaincy pick in fantasy, no longer guarantees a steady points return.

In this context, winter signing Omar Marmoush stands out. The Egyptian has added new dynamics to the attack and has looked noticeably sharper than his star partner in recent matches. His activity in the box, frequent shots on goal, and involvement in creating scoring chances make Marmoush an interesting differential in fantasy for the decisive stretch of the season. If the trend continues, he could become an unexpected source of green arrows for those who dare to back him.

🔥 They're forming a deadly duo but the defense keeps cancelling out their efforts!#MCIBHA pic.twitter.com/0xN0lAFRl6

— Olt Sports (@oltsport_) March 15, 2025

Another argument in his favor is the high likelihood of a double gameweek for City in GW33, making Marmoush's selection even more appealing, even if Erling Haaland is already in the squad.

BOU next fixtures: IPS, whu, FUL, cry, MUN

Bournemouth has unexpectedly joined the race for European spots and, given the tight competition at the top of the table, even maintains a chance for a Champions League spot. Andoni Iraola's team is showing confident attacking play, making their assets particularly interesting in fantasy.

Before his injury, the Brazilian forward was in decent form, but his return to the starting lineup was in doubt due to the successful performance of Dango Ouattara, who effectively replaced him. However, in recent gameweeks, Iraola made it clear that he fully trusts his tactical plans and sees Evanilson as a key player in the starting lineup. The forward quickly justified expectations, scoring in the match against Tottenham.

Good chemistry with teammates and active participation in the final phase of attacks make Evanilson an attractive differential. Given Bournemouth's stable attacking metrics and affordable price, he could become a valuable asset for those seeking an underrated source of points in the crucial gameweeks of the season.

Evanilson com a camisa do Bournemouth:⚔ 23 jogos⚽ 7 gols👟 50 finalizações (25 no gol!)🔑 19 passes decisivos🚀 32 duelos aéreos ganhos👊 38 faltas sofridas (!)🥊 5 pênaltis sofridos (!)💯 Nota Sofascore 7.06🇧🇷🔥 pic.twitter.com/ORpmbywDlF

— Sofascore Brasil (@SofascoreBR) March 9, 2025

BHA next fixtures: AVL, cry, LEI, bre, WHU

Brighton's form is impressive – the team has gained momentum, winning 4 consecutive matches and drawing with Manchester City away in the last gameweek. Such a surge makes the Seagulls' assets attractive options for strengthening fantasy squads. If there is a free slot in the attack, João Pedro looks like a reliable and affordable choice.

The Brazilian plays a key role in Fabian Hurzeler's attacking schemes, is the designated penalty taker, and actively participates in creating chances. His form is backed by stats – in the last 5 gameweeks, he has scored 3 goals and provided 1 assist, making him one of the most productive forwards in his price range.

Brighton’s number 9 is Brazil’s number 9.João. Pedro. 🥶🇧🇷 pic.twitter.com/4aJ2lY1Cmi

— Ryan (@ryantsrr) March 21, 2025

Pedro's call-up to the Brazilian national team, where he received the symbolic number nine for this footballing nation, further highlights the trust placed in him.

The potential DGW33 adds to the Brazilian's appeal: if Brighton gets past Nottingham in the FA Cup quarter-finals, the team will have two matches in one gameweek, making João Pedro almost a must-have for managers for the rest of the season.

• Read also: Replacement for Nunez. Liverpool contacts João Pedro's entourage from Brighton

FUL next fixtures: ars, LIV, bou, CHE, sou

Fulham continues to battle on two fronts – the team is 8th in the league and still has a chance to qualify for European competitions, as well as reaching the FA Cup quarter-finals, where they will face Crystal Palace this coming Saturday. If the Cottagers overcome this hurdle, they will have a double gameweek in GW33, automatically increasing the attractiveness of their fantasy assets.

One of Fulham's key players remains Raul Jimenez, who is having one of the best seasons of his career. He has 11 goals and 3 assists in all club competitions, plus 5 goals for the Mexican national team. In addition to regularly scoring from the penalty spot, he recently scored a stunning long-range free-kick for his national team, making him an even more appealing choice.

Raul Jimenez scored both goals as Mexico beat Panama 2-1 to win their first ever CONCACAF Nations League title 🇲🇽🏆 pic.twitter.com/tQD23sAVgk

— LiveScore (@livescore) March 24, 2025

The Mexican returns to the club in high spirits – in the CONCACAF Nations League Cup final, Jimenez scored a brace, helping his national team beat Panama 2-1 and secure the trophy. This form and confidence make him an intriguing differential for managers looking for an underrated forward with high potential.

On the first matchday, Necaxa defeated León, Querétaro narrowly beat Mazatlán, and Toluca crushed Puebla away.

On the second matchday, Tigres, in a match with two own goals, thrashed Santos Laguna, Cruz Azul left no chance for San Luis, América defeated Atlas away, and Juárez and Chivas ended in a draw.

On the third matchday, Monterrey won away against Pumas, and Pachuca defeated Tijuana at home.

• Also read: Liga MX 2025. Team of the Week: Hat-Tricks by Djurdjevic and Alexis Vega

We present the symbolic team of the 12th round.

The Spanish goalkeeper made 6 saves in the match against Puebla, including 3 inside the penalty area, blocked one shot, made one clearance, and intercepted two crosses. This is already the third match out of seven in which López kept a clean sheet.

🧤👹 PAU LÓPEZ recorded 6 SAVES (3 of them inside the area) and maintained a CLEAN SHEET in Toluca's ROUT over Puebla.🔥 The Spaniard was CRUCIAL for the Red Devils to dominate the match. pic.twitter.com/UXg1vWz94L

— dataref México (@dataref_mx) March 15, 2025

In 68 minutes on the field, Jesús made 2 clearances, as well as one interception and one tackle. He completed 52 (90%) accurate passes, including 2 long balls. Out of 5 ground and aerial duels, Gallardo won 3 and also made one successful dribble attempt.

In the 15th minute, his goal from outside the penalty area started the rout of Puebla. This is Jesús's first goal of the current season.

Así narramos el gol de @TolucaFC a través de @TudnRadioApareció Jesús Gallardo, los esperamos ya en el 2T. pic.twitter.com/4UOKKCZe26

— Cántalo Camacho (@CantaloCamacho) March 15, 2025

Óscar played a crucial role in ensuring the "White Roosters" secured three points against Mazatlán. Manzanares made 10 clearances and 2 interceptions. He completed two accurate long passes and won both aerial duels, also drawing two fouls from the opponent.

In the game against Atlas, Juárez made 4 clearances and 2 tackles, as well as one interception. He completed 94% of his passes accurately, including one key and one long pass, creating a scoring chance.

In the 74th minute, Ramón assisted Rodrigo Aguirre, who scored América's third goal. This is Juárez's first goal contribution in the Clausura since March 2022.

The Colombian not only provided his first assist of the season against San Luis but also made 2 key passes, 2 long passes, and created 2 scoring chances. Ditta made 2 clearances and one interception, and won his only aerial duel.

🇨🇴 ASSIST by Willer Ditta. The Colombian set up the 1-0 for #CruzAzul against #AtléticoSanLuis, at 8’ pic.twitter.com/mgYN39tQLL

— Pipe Sierra (@PSierraR) March 16, 2025

The Argentine, in a match against his former team, delivered 7 long and 6 key passes, 6 crosses, and created two goal-scoring opportunities. Out of 5 ground and aerial duels, Juan won 4. He also successfully executed a dribble and drew 2 fouls.

In the 59th minute, Brunetta scored his 6th goal of the Mexican league season with a long-range shot from outside the penalty area.

🎯Jornada 12⚔️Rival: @ClubSantos✅Marcador: 3-0⚽️Anotador: Juan Brunetta, autogol (X2).🏟️Estadio: Universitario pic.twitter.com/GUTFmyBF7C

— MAG (@migangelgarzam) March 16, 2025

Twice in the match against Atlas, Sanchez assisted his teammates for goals. Additionally, he made 3 key and long passes and created another scoring chance. Erik could have scored himself if not for the post denying his shot.

Sanchez also made 3 clearances and one tackle, blocked a shot, and made an interception.

¡Partidazo de los muchachos! 💙💛 pic.twitter.com/Rc6tBCqloA

— Club América (@ClubAmerica) March 16, 2025

The Spaniard was involved in all three goals scored by the "striped" against Pumas. Early in the second half, Sergio converted a penalty and then provided two assists.

This marks the third consecutive match where Canales leaves the field with at least one goal contribution. With 5 goals and 6 assists this season, he ranks among the top three players in Liga MX.

Golazo de MiDiez 🇪🇸🔥Que bellos ojos por cierto.. pic.twitter.com/5ud7ZrQUhK

— El Rayado Objetivo (@objetivo_mty) March 17, 2025

The captain of the "red devils" was once again the best on the pitch. First, he assisted Gallardo, and then scored a penalty himself. Vega now leads the league with 8 goals and 6 assists.

Alexis also completed 70 passes (91% accuracy), including 4 key passes, 3 long balls, 2 crosses, and one created chance. Vega forced the opponent to foul him 3 times, won an aerial duel, and made a tackle.

☝🏼😝☝🏼 @Alexis_Vega9 https://t.co/vOBfldSeMu pic.twitter.com/CVsY1feO9q

— Toluca FC (@TolucaFC) March 15, 2025

Ángel was involved in two of the three goals scored by "cementeros" against San Luis, netting a brace in just five minutes between the 8th and 13th minutes. The last time Sepúlveda scored twice in a match was in October 2024.

In the match against San Luis, he also won 3 out of 4 aerial duels and drew one foul from the opponent.

Noche redonda 😇Ángel Sepúlveda hizo doblete hoy, llegó a su gol 100 entre clubes y Selección, ganó con @CruzAzul y se llevó el #TecateJugadorDelPartido. 👏@CervezaTecate pic.twitter.com/9fZrNBqImg

— Liga BBVA MX (@LigaBBVAMX) March 16, 2025

The Uruguayan played a pivotal role in America’s victory over Atlas. Of the three goals scored by the "eagles," Rodrigo netted two, which not only secured the match but also elevated the team to the top of the league.

Aguirre also made 2 long and one key pass, 3 clearances, a tackle, and blocked an opponent's shot.

¡DOBLETE PARA AGUIRRE! 🦬⚽️⚽️El América ya suma 3 goles a su favor 💙💛 pic.twitter.com/ShoKOfT3vX

— Club América (@ClubAmerica) March 16, 2025

The Brazilian specialist's squad confidently won the away match against Atlas. Jardine's tactical flexibility was evident in his ability to adapt to the opponent's aggressive style, neutralizing their attacks in the second half and capitalizing on opportunities. América’s win over Leon proved fortuitous, propelling them to the top of the league standings.

On the first matchday, Barcelona defeated Benfica, Inter overcame Feyenoord, Bayern once again bested Bayer, and PSG secured a win in a penalty shootout against Liverpool in an away game.

On the second matchday, Borussia achieved a comeback victory over Lille, Arsenal and PSV played a high-scoring draw, and Aston Villa thrashed Club Brugge while playing with a man advantage. The Madrid derby required a penalty shootout to determine the winner, which Real Madrid executed better.

Here’s the symbolic team of the Champions League Round of 16 second legs for the 2024/2025 season.

• Goalkeeper: Gianluigi Donnarumma (PSG)

In the match against Liverpool, the Italian saved 8 shots, made one interception of a cross, and completed one save inside the penalty area. His main contribution came in the penalty shootout, where Donnarumma saved two penalties—from Núñez and Jones.

Thanks to this, PSG won the shootout and advanced to the quarterfinals. The Italian goalkeeper has now won 6 out of 7 penalty shootouts in his career.

Donnarumma shoot-out heroics 😱Alisson at full stretch 😮Urbig at the near post 🧤Great goalkeeping 💯@QatarAirways | #LetsFly pic.twitter.com/eKc9jPioKQ

— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) March 11, 2025

• Left Back: Alphonso Davies (Bayern)

In the match against Bayer, the Canadian made 4 clearances, 5 ball recoveries, blocked 2 shots, and made 1 interception. He completely dominated aerial duels and completed one successful dribble. Davies had one shot on target, which was the match-winning goal, setting the final result.

Alphonso Davies goalpic.twitter.com/QkDfpTS1kk

— Bloke (@UtdBloke_) March 12, 2025

• Center Back: Emre Can (Borussia Dortmund)

The "Bumblebees" captain made 6 clearances, 3 ball recoveries, and 2 interceptions against Lille. He completed 48 (91%) accurate passes, including 6 long balls. Can won 6 out of 8 duels both on the ground and in the air and completed one successful dribble. In the 54th minute, he scored a penalty, kickstarting Borussia’s comeback victory.

Mehr davon! #UCL #LOSCBVB pic.twitter.com/jUMLVKYkt9

— Borussia Dortmund (@BVB) March 12, 2025

• Right Back: Jan Maatsen (Aston Villa)

The Dutch player made 2 clearances, 2 interceptions, and 1 ball recovery. He completed 60 (94%) accurate passes, including 3 key passes. Maatsen won 4 out of 6 duels on the ground and in the air and completed one successful dribble. In the 57th minute, Maatsen scored his first Champions League goal in nearly a year.

Ian Maatsen, palmas de pé para você. 👏🟣🔵 pic.twitter.com/QsN91NT5bh

— Aston Villa Brasil 🇧🇷🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 (@AstonVillabrfc) March 12, 2025

• Left Midfielder: Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid)

The Englishman completed 84 (92%) accurate passes, 6 long balls, dribbled past opponents 4 times successfully, won all 3 aerial duels, and 10 out of 14 ground duels. Additionally, Jude calmly converted his penalty in the shootout.

🚨 Jude Bellingham for Real Madrid vs Atletico:• Most duels won (13)• Most take-ons completed (4)• Most fouls won (3)• Most aerial duels won (3/3)Dominant. @Squawka 💫 pic.twitter.com/sXB4BCi2r7

— Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) March 12, 2025

• Right Midfielder: Oleksandr Zinchenko (Arsenal)

In the match against PSV, the Ukrainian made 1 key pass and created a goal-scoring opportunity. In the 6th minute, Zinchenko opened the scoring with a long-range shot. It was Zinchenko’s first goal and first key action in the Champions League in nearly three years.

Impressed with Oleksandr Zinchenko in midfield tonight. Could be a handy option there for the rest of the season.Player ratings from the Emirates:https://t.co/SBXTdtSTwu

— Simon Collings (@sr_collings) March 12, 2025

• Attacking Midfielder: Raheem Sterling (Arsenal)

Saka played a part in both of Arsenal’s goals, providing assists for both. Over his Champions League career, he now has 45 goal contributions (27 goals, 18 assists).

Raheem Sterling, Man of the Match ❤️ pic.twitter.com/V83ug4MX2M

— AFTV (@AFTVMedia) March 12, 2025

• Left Winger: Raphinha (Barcelona)

The Brazilian was involved in all three of Barcelona’s goals against Benfica, scoring twice and providing one assist. He now has 11 goals and 5 assists in this Champions League campaign, making him the highest-scoring Brazilian in a single season for any club in the competition’s history.

📊| Raphinha has now scored 47 goals for Barcelona, matching Ronaldo Nazário's tally. In yesterday's UEFA Champions League Round of 16 match against Benfica, he recorded 2 goals and 1 assist. With this performance, he is now the competition’s top scorer for the year with 11 goals… pic.twitter.com/goPdn2MjhF

— Barça Buzz (@Barca_Buzz) March 12, 2025

• Right Winger: Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)

Yamal made history once again by scoring and assisting against Benfica. At 17 years and 241 days old, he became the youngest player to record a goal and an assist in a Champions League knockout match.

🔵🔴🪄 Magic goal by Lamine Yamal, his 12th goal of the season in all competitions. pic.twitter.com/slOLTuhszt

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 11, 2025

• Striker: Harry Kane (Bayern)

Kane was involved in both of Bayern’s goals against Bayer. He opened the scoring, becoming the first English player to score 10 goals in the Champions League, and later assisted Alphonso Davies. Kane now has 50 goal contributions in the Champions League—39 goals and 11 assists—matching the legendary record of 50 goal contributions.

Harry Kane scores for Bayern Munich to put them in front.Bayer Leverkusen 0-1 Bayern Munich pic.twitter.com/N1hghIQRAV

— Bloke (@UtdBloke_) March 12, 2025

• Striker: Marco Asensio (Aston Villa)

Asensio came on in the second half and scored twice in just over 15 minutes against Club Brugge. The Spaniard has truly flourished at Villa, scoring 7 goals in his last 5 matches across all competitions.

🌟#UCL pic.twitter.com/gHSllWoVe6

— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) March 12, 2025

• Coach: Luis Enrique (PSG)

Luis Enrique masterfully exploited Liverpool’s weaknesses by utilizing free fullbacks to create scoring opportunities. He refreshed the squad intelligently in the second half and extra time, shifting the initiative to PSG’s right flank. Despite Liverpool’s pragmatic 4-2-4 formation and fullback pressure, Luis Enrique’s side held firm and won the shootout. His tactical acumen was key to PSG’s progression to the quarterfinals.

Buenos días.Esta foto representa lo que es el PSG actual.Y el líder del proyecto está en el medio de todo. pic.twitter.com/cBMn68RCf5

— Andrés Onrubia Ramos (@AndiOnrubia) March 12, 2025

Dailysports has prepared a list of the most renowned players whose contracts with their clubs expire in June this year. Spoiler: there will be many famous names here.

• Also read: Epic eliminations of Man City and Chelsea: the biggest FA Cup upsets of the 21st century

Let's start with the most obvious names on our list. Liverpool is having a fantastic season, as they only need 16 points to mathematically secure the top spot in the Premier League. And things are going well in the Champions League for Arne Slot's team. But come summer, the team might lose three of its leaders.

Trent Alexander-Arnold is almost certain to leave his hometown club, having agreed on all contract details with Real Madrid. The club is negotiating with captain Virgil van Dijk and Premier League top scorer Mohamed Salah, but so far without success.

Mo Salah and Virgil van Dijk in 2018 vs. 2025 🥹Still teammates after 7 years ❤️ pic.twitter.com/pc84cP2H7J

— ESPN UK (@ESPNUK) February 6, 2025

It's hard to imagine how much Liverpool will be affected by the loss of these three players. But it's certain that nothing good will come out of it for the club.

It's rare for clubs to have the opportunity to sign one of Europe's top forwards for free while he's in his prime. But this year, that chance arises.

The Canadian striker Jonathan David has overstayed his time at Lille and is definitely ready for a new challenge. Therefore, a new contract is not even being discussed.

This season, David has already scored 22 goals in 39 matches, and his critical strikes have led Lille to victories over Real Madrid and Atletico in the Champions League. Obviously, a queue of top clubs, including Bayern, Liverpool, Arsenal, Barcelona, Juventus, and Milan, is already forming for such a forward. The only question is where the Canadian striker will end up.

The same can be said for Angel Gomes, who has performed so well for Lille that he earned a call-up to the England national team. It's very likely he will return to the Premier League this summer.

Leroy Sané's poor form is one of the reasons for Bayern's failure last season. And in the new season, Sané has yet to impress, with 6 goals and 4 assists in 21 Bundesliga matches. It seems that the Munich club will not offer a new contract to the former Manchester City player.

Sané himself would like to return to England, but there are no rumors of interest from any top clubs yet.

✅ @Arsenal London is interested in a Transfer of Leroy Sané (29) @FCBayern❇️ Sané is a free Agent in Summer❇️ No negotiations with FC Bayern about a new contract yet❇️ Mikel Arteta worked with Sané at Manchester City@BILD_Sport @altobelli13 pic.twitter.com/jPXJT82DvU

— Christian Falk (@cfbayern) March 12, 2025

As for Joshua Kimmich, just a week ago, he was very close to leaving, but now Fabrizio Romano reports that Bayern has agreed on a new contract with one of its leaders.

For years, Lucas Vázquez was that Real Madrid player who wasn't considered a starter but always gave his all when on the field. Last season, Vázquez seamlessly replaced Dani Carvajal, but this campaign hasn't been as successful.

In top matches, Carlo Ancelotti now prefers Federico Valverde on the right in defense, and Vázquez plays in La Liga against significantly weaker opponents. Carvajal will return in the summer, and Alexander-Arnold is also coming. All signs point to Real bidding farewell to another legend in June.

"Luka will decide if he wants to stay," said Carlo Ancelotti. At 39, Modric plays so well that he can decide whether to stay with the club next season. And if insiders are to be believed, Real Madrid will offer the legendary Croatian a new contract. Modric himself would like to finish his career at Real and play in the 2026 World Cup.

Tah is the captain of Bayer and one of the main heroes of Xabi Alonso's legendary championship season. He wanted to leave the club last summer, but Bayer agreed with the center-back that he would stay for one more season and leave in 2025.

🚨🇩🇪 Jonathan Tah: “I’m NOT gonna sign a new deal at Bayer Leverkusen. My decision is made”.“I will give my best until the end here and then we will see about my future club. But my decision is to go and try different experience”, told @SZ. pic.twitter.com/yVitfXHHBr

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 7, 2024

Barcelona is the absolute favorite to sign Tah. The experienced defender would like to play under Hansi Flick, and the club's financial situation forces them to seek free agents. But the 29-year-old center-back also has options with Bayern and Inter.

Ola Aina is one of the key players in Nuno Espírito Santo's incredible team, which is genuinely contending for a Champions League spot this season. But it's hard to say if the Nigerian will stay with the "Tricky Trees."

If Nottingham Forest qualifies for European competitions at the end of the season, Aina is unlikely to refuse a contract extension. Otherwise, he has an offer from Galatasaray and other solid clubs that definitely need a right-back of such high caliber.

2 goals and 6 assists in 19 Premier League matches... It's sad to admit, but the former Kevin De Bruyne, who could single-handedly pull off wins for Manchester City, is no more.

Most goal contributions in the Champions League knock-outs for a Premier League side: Kevin De Bruyne! 🤴⚽️ Goals: 1️⃣3️⃣🅰️ Assists: 1️⃣1️⃣ pic.twitter.com/165O8i3j17

— City Report (@cityreport_) March 11, 2025

It's apparent that we can now enjoy not only De Bruyne's last matches for Guardiola's team but also in European football as a whole. Kevin had options to continue his career in Saudi Arabia, but he leans towards moving to the USA. The most probable destination is the new MLS club, San Diego.

Last summer, the Polish goalkeeper, deemed unnecessary by Juventus, announced his retirement. He would have continued to enjoy his break if not for a call from Barcelona, who lost Marc-André ter Stegen for the rest of the season.

Initially, Szczesny lost the competition to Iñaki Peña, but later became Barcelona's main goalkeeper. The 34-year-old keeper played 14 matches, in which the Catalans remained unbeaten.

It's evident that Wojciech is happy in Barcelona, and the club is satisfied with his performance. It seems that during the international break, they will sign a new contract for another season.

Neymar returned to Santos, signing a six-month contract, as he wants to move back to a European club in the summer of 2025. His agent Pini Zahavi is actively lobbying for a return to Barcelona, but Hansi Flick is against this idea. So, the question of where Neymar will play remains open.

As for the legendary Messi and Ronaldo, they both plan to extend their contracts with their current clubs. But for now, they remain on the list of potential free agents.

On the first matchday, Tigres UANL and Atlético San Luis won 1-0 at home against Querétaro and Juárez, respectively. Pumas UNAM triumphed 2-1 over Puebla while playing with a man advantage.

On the second matchday, Toluca, trailing 0-2, managed to score five goals against Necaxa. Pachuca and Mazatlán, as well as Cruz Azul and Monterrey, drew 1-1. In the Chivas vs. América clash, there were no goals.

The third matchday was a day of comebacks. Santos Laguna sensationally snatched a win from León, and Atlas, down 0-3 in the 61st minute, managed to score four goals in the remaining 30 minutes to defeat Tijuana.

• Goalkeeper: Luis Cárdenas (Monterrey)

Despite conceding a goal, Cárdenas became the hero in the match against Cruz Azul. The Monterrey goalkeeper made 7 saves, intercepted one cross, cleared the ball once, and completed 11 long passes.

Cruz Azul, cerca del gol ⚽🔥Luis 'Mochis' Cárdenas regala un atajadón para evitar la caída de Rayados 🧤📹@rebolledouu#SabadoFutbolero por @Univisión y TUDN pic.twitter.com/XrsU4iiMSa

— TUDN USA (@TUDNUSA) March 9, 2025

• Left-back: Juan Manuel Sanabria (Atlético San Luis)

In the match against Juárez, the Uruguayan made 6 clearances and 4 tackles. 81% of his 48 passes were accurate, including 3 long balls. He won 6 of his 11 duels, both on the ground and in the air. Sanabria had one shot on goal, but most importantly, on the 48th minute, his assist to Oscar Macías led to a third win of the season. The Uruguayan has now provided an assist in his third consecutive match and leads the league with 5 assists.

Juan Manuel Sanabria assisted the match-winning goal for Atlético de San Luis vs. Juárez on Friday night.The versatile Uruguayan footballer has now given an assist in each of his last 3 games and is the joint-assist leader of the Liga MX with 5 assists this season.🔝🇲🇽 pic.twitter.com/2ExRiZHm9m

— Warriors of Uruguay (@UruguayanHeroes) March 8, 2025

• Center-back: Anderson Santamaría (Santos Laguna)

In the match against León, the Peruvian made 6 clearances and 2 tackles. Santamaría completed 4 long passes, won 4 of 6 duels on the ground and in the air, and successfully dribbled once. In added time, Anderson came up for a corner kick and scored the winning goal with a header. This was his first goal for Santos Laguna, and coincidentally, his last goal came in September 2021, also against León.

¡Sorpresa! 😳#SantosLaguna le pega al líder #León 🤯Anderson Santamaria del dio el triunfo de 2-1 al cuadro de Torreón, Coahuila. pic.twitter.com/rxrlrnVVwN

— Foliatti Sportsbook (@Foliatti_Sports) March 10, 2025

• Center-back: Israel Reyes (América)

The Mexican defender made 2 tackles and 2 clearances, as well as one interception. Reyes delivered 6 long passes, 1 through ball, and created 1 goal-scoring opportunity. He could have scored himself, but his shot hit the post.

⏱️ 60' | ¡Venga, Águilas! 💪⚽️ Chivas 0 vs. 0 América#ElClásicoDeMéxico pic.twitter.com/F8KteNGqZI

— Club América (@ClubAmerica) March 9, 2025

• Right-back: Javier Aquino (UANL Tigres)

The 35-year-old veteran made 4 clearances, 1 interception, and 1 tackle. Aquino completed 91 passes (94% accuracy), including 4 crosses and 3 long passes. He won 5 of 6 duels on the ground and 1 in the air. Aquino also succeeded in 3 out of 4 dribbling attempts and forced 1 foul.

🔥🐯 JAVIER AQUINO, entre los jugadores de Tigres, en el TRIUNFO sobre Querétaro:○ 1º en recuperaciones (8).○ 1º en oportunidades creadas (2).○ 1º en regates completos (3).○ 2º en duelos ganados (6).○ 3º en pases precisos (91/97). pic.twitter.com/3V0ynLJUuQ

— dataref México (@dataref_mx) March 8, 2025

• Defensive Midfielder: Javier Güémez (Santos Laguna)

In the match against León, Güémez made 5 long passes and 5 through balls, won 5 out of 8 duels on the ground, and 1 aerial duel. He made 2 clearances, 2 tackles, and 3 interceptions. On the 75th minute, Güémez created a goal-scoring opportunity, which Ramiro Sordo converted into a goal. This is his third consecutive assist of the season.

Javier Güemez en la victoria del Santos ante León:Pase para gol1° en pases precisos1° en oportunidades creadas10 recuperaciones6/9 duelos ganadosComo en los buenos tiempos. pic.twitter.com/VF4oVBvWT2

— STATISKICKS (@statiskicks) March 10, 2025

• Left Midfielder: Alexis Vega (Toluca)

Vega was the hero in Toluca's comeback. This was his first hat-trick since February 2019. With this performance, the Toluca captain now has 7 goals and 5 assists in 11 league matches. Vega also made 2 accurate crosses, 3 long passes, and created 1 goal-scoring opportunity. Additionally, he made 1 clearance and 4 tackles.

🔥 ¡ALEXIS VEGA ESTA ON FIRE! 🔥El mexicano registra 7 goles y 5 asistencias en 11 partidos con Toluca en el #Clausura2025 🤯¿Debe volver con @miseleccionmx? 🇲🇽 pic.twitter.com/7tsQEvN4OG

— POSTA Deportes (@POSTADeportes) March 9, 2025

• Right Midfielder: Ignacio Rivero (Cruz Azul)

In the match against Monterrey, Cruz Azul's captain scored his fourth goal of the season. Rivero completed 5 long passes, won 9 ground duels, and earned 1 foul. The Uruguayan made 8 clearances and 1 tackle.

😘💙 pic.twitter.com/wgUxi5yoxB

— CRUZ AZUL (@CruzAzul) March 9, 2025

• Attacking Midfielder: Paulinho (Toluca)

The Portuguese midfielder played a pivotal role in Toluca's comeback against Necaxa, after they were trailing 0-2. Just before the break, Paulinho scored a goal, and in the second half, he provided an assist to Alexis Vega, who made it 4-2.

💪🏻2️⃣6️⃣ https://t.co/mmOgEcpBWE pic.twitter.com/ISsUjc0zBK

— Toluca FC (@TolucaFC) March 9, 2025

• Striker: Uroš Djurdjević (Atlas)

In Atlas's incredible comeback, Djurdjević played a key role, scoring 3 of the 4 goals. Over the last two matches, Djurdjević has scored 5 goals, and in 11 Clausura matches, he has scored 8. Djurdjević also made 1 through ball, 1 long pass, and forced an opponent foul.

Primer Hat Trick de Djuka en México!!!Ya son 8 goles en el presente torneo para nuestro serbio. 🫰🇷🇸pic.twitter.com/PAn9zXN3Av

— Atlas FC (@AtlasFC) March 10, 2025

• Striker: Guillermo Martínez (Pumas UNAM)

Martínez played a crucial role in Pumas's victory over Puebla. On the 75th minute, he scored the team's second goal, and in added time, he provided an assist to Ali Ávila, who sealed the win. Martínez had only 15 touches of the ball during the match, but aside from his goal and assist, he completed 6 accurate passes, 1 through ball, and made a clearance and an interception. He won 3 of 5 aerial duels.

✨Ⓜ️ E Ⓜ️ O T E ✨#DePumasSoy #OhUniversidad https://t.co/GuTFHTnBiv pic.twitter.com/QhhBeoytSs

— PUMAS (@PumasMX) March 8, 2025

• Coach: Fernando Ortiz (Santos Laguna)

Under the guidance of the Argentine coach, Santos Laguna handed the tournament leaders their first defeat. The Santos players showed character, securing the win in the final minutes with an impressive comeback. Ortiz's tactical flexibility and motivation made this match one of the standout events of the round.

On the first matchday, Aston Villa confidently defeated Belgian side Club Brugge away. In the Madrid derby, which marked Real Madrid’s 500th game in the Champions League, Los Blancos secured their 300th victory in the competition.

Borussia Dortmund and Lille played out a draw, while Arsenal demolished Dutch side PSV, becoming the first team in Champions League history to score seven goals in an away match in the knockout stage.

On the second matchday, Inter left no chance for another Dutch club, Feyenoord. Bayern came out on top against Bayer. Liverpool snatched a dramatic away victory over PSG, and Barcelona, down to ten men, defeated Benfica for the second time this season.

• Goalkeeper: Alisson Becker (Liverpool)

The Brazilian became the first goalkeeper in this season’s Champions League to keep a clean sheet at Parc des Princes. Before this match, PSG had scored 40 goals in their last 10 games.

Alisson made nine saves, stopped one shot, completed four clearances, and delivered 10 accurate long passes.

Alisson Becker. pic.twitter.com/J590sTIm1s

— Liverpool FC (@LFC) March 5, 2025

• Left-back: Francesco Acerbi (Inter)

The Italian recorded two interceptions, two tackles, and one clearance against Feyenoord. He completed 65 passes (97% accuracy), including one key pass, six long balls, and one cross. Acerbi won one aerial duel and two ground duels while also attempting one shot on goal.

😎💪#ForzaInter #UCL #FeyenoordInter pic.twitter.com/MSiuOMPzEQ

— Inter ⭐⭐ (@Inter) March 5, 2025

• Center-back: Ibrahima Konaté (Liverpool)

In the match against PSG, Konaté made four clearances and blocked three shots. He completed only 15 passes, but all were accurate, including two long balls. The Frenchman also won his only aerial duel of the game.

Ibou 💪🇫🇷 pic.twitter.com/aa0HEO2rCK

— Liverpool FC (@LFC) March 5, 2025

• Right-back: Jules Koundé (Barcelona)

The Frenchman recorded 11 clearances, one tackle, and one interception. Out of his 32 passes (86% accuracy), all were successful, including one cross. Koundé won all three of his aerial duels and also drew a foul from an opponent.

INSTANT IMPACT 😤💎 pic.twitter.com/TRXtqa6sSc

— Liverpool FC (@LFC) March 5, 2025

• Left midfielder: Brahim Díaz (Real Madrid)

By scoring in the 55th minute, the Spanish-Moroccan secured a crucial victory for Real Madrid in the derby against Atlético. It was his second goal in this Champions League campaign, having also scored against Manchester City in February.

Díaz completed 50 passes (94% accuracy), including one key pass and three long balls. He also managed one successful dribble, won six ground duels, made four interceptions, three tackles, and one clearance.

💫 @Brahim⚽ @adidasfootball pic.twitter.com/ebWj4xaCca

— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) March 4, 2025

• Central midfielder: Harvey Elliott (Liverpool)

The Englishman proved to be Arne Slot’s ultimate super-sub. Entering the game in the 86th minute, Elliott scored Liverpool’s winning goal against PSG with his first touch just a minute later.

INSTANT IMPACT 😤💎 pic.twitter.com/TRXtqa6sSc

— Liverpool FC (@LFC) March 5, 2025

• Right midfielder: Martin Ødegaard (Arsenal)

The 26-year-old Norwegian played a key role in Arsenal’s thrashing of PSV, directly contributing to three of the Gunners' seven goals. He netted twice and provided an assist.

Ødegaard also completed 37 passes (86% accuracy), delivered three key passes, one long ball, and created one big chance.

Simply sensational.A fully-deserved Player of the Match display from our skipper 🫡🤝 @ChampionsLeague pic.twitter.com/R1EYzxPFLT

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) March 4, 2025

• Left winger: Raphinha (Barcelona)

Just like in the group stage, Raphinha was the match-winner for Barcelona against Benfica. This time, his decisive strike was the only goal in the Iberian showdown. It marked his ninth goal in this Champions League campaign.

Raphinha also provided two key passes, one long ball, created a big chance, won three ground duels and one aerial duel, and forced two fouls from Benfica’s defenders. Additionally, he recorded one clearance and one tackle.

Déjà vu. pic.twitter.com/yXvcI5PQ1F

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona_es) March 5, 2025

• Right winger: Rodrygo (Real Madrid)

It was the Brazilian’s strike in the 4th minute that opened the scoring in the Madrid derby. This was Rodrygo’s 25th goal in the Champions League. In Real Madrid’s modern era, only Vinícius Júnior (28), Raúl (66), Benzema (78), and Cristiano Ronaldo (105) have scored more in the competition.

Rodrygo completed 52 passes (91% accuracy), including one cross and one long ball.

🔥 Por algo le llamamos RodryGOL... pic.twitter.com/2DTqSlQsz0

— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) March 5, 2025

• Striker: Lautaro Martínez (Inter)

At De Kuip, Lautaro registered one key pass, one long ball, and one cross. He won five out of seven ground and aerial duels, made three tackles, and completed one clearance.

His clinical finish in the 50th minute sealed Inter’s victory over Feyenoord. With 18 goals, Martínez is now tied with Adriano as Inter’s all-time top scorer in the Champions League.

L'MVP è il miglior marcatore nerazzurro in Champions League🏅#ForzaInter #UCL #FeyenoordInter pic.twitter.com/D3U3OliP5w

— Inter ⭐⭐ (@Inter) March 5, 2025

• Striker: Harry Kane (Bayern Munich)

Two of Bayern’s three goals came from the Englishman. One of them was a penalty, which he earned himself. Kane now has 61 goals in European competitions, equaling Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah. They share 12th place in the all-time scorers’ ranking for European tournaments, though Kane has played 37 fewer matches than Salah.

• Manager: Arne Slot (Liverpool)

Despite PSG’s dominance, Slot’s tactical discipline and strategic substitutions (introducing Núñez and Elliott) secured Liverpool’s victory with their only shot on target in the 87th minute.

Slot has instilled a resilient mentality in his squad, enabling them to withstand pressure and turn games around. To victories over the champions of England (twice) and Spain, he has now added a triumph over France’s best team.

Liverpool : la réaction lucide d’Arne Slot https://t.co/4iXjIY6P0K

— Foot Mercato (@footmercato) March 5, 2025

• Goalkeeper: Alisson Becker (Liverpool)

In the match against Manchester City, the Brazilian goalkeeper made five saves and kept his eighth clean sheet of the season. Alisson also recorded one punched clearance, one ball recovery, and one intercepted cross, while completing 77% of his passes.

pic.twitter.com/bx9IL0Z1IZ

— Liverpool FC (@LFC) February 23, 2025

• Left-back: Lewis Hall (Newcastle)

The 20-year-old Englishman delivered a strong defensive display against Nottingham Forest, registering four clearances, six tackles, a blocked shot, and an interception. Hall completed 47 passes (89% accuracy), including three key passes and crosses. He also won 10 of 13 ground duels.

In the 25th minute, his shot deflected off Jacob Murphy before finding the net, and shortly after, he won a penalty by forcing a handball from Ola Aina.

A big performance from Lewis Hall! 💪 pic.twitter.com/BVPecEvwn1

— Newcastle United (@NUFC) February 23, 2025

• Centre-back: Maxence Lacroix (Crystal Palace)

Against Fulham, the 24-year-old Frenchman recorded 12 clearances, four tackles, one blocked shot, and an interception. He completed 29 passes (88% accuracy) and won all his duels—five on the ground and two in the air. Lacroix even had a chance to score but missed the opportunity.

Maxence Lacroix LOVE #CPFC // #FULCRY pic.twitter.com/1dnaMYKCTv

— Crystal Palace F.C. (@CPFC) February 22, 2025

• Centre-back: Santiago Bueno (Wolves)

The 26-year-old Uruguayan had a strong performance in Wolves’ victory over Bournemouth, making seven clearances, three tackles, and an interception in just 73 minutes on the pitch. He completed 36 passes (98% accuracy) and won four of five ground duels, as well as both of his aerial battles.

Santiago Bueno in action for Wolverhampton Wanderers in their vital 1-0 win away to Bournemouth this afternoon.The Wolves are now 5 points clear of the Premier League relegation zone.Bueno performed 7 clearances and won 6 out of his 7 duels during the game.🐺🇺🇾 pic.twitter.com/YLJN9m4E5G

— Warriors of Uruguay (@UruguayanHeroes) February 22, 2025

• Right-back: Aaron Wan-Bissaka (West Ham)

The 27-year-old Englishman played a crucial role in West Ham’s away win over Arsenal, recording six clearances, a tackle, and a blocked shot. He also provided two key passes, one cross, and one long ball.In the 44th minute, Wan-Bissaka assisted Jarrod Bowen’s winning goal—the first time he had registered an assist in over a month.

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🤝 Aaron Wan-Bissaka x Jarrod Bowen against Arsenal! 🤩⚒️ pic.twitter.com/wi65jFlVhz

— EuroFoot (@eurofootcom) February 22, 2025

• Midfielder: Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United)

The 30-year-old United captain orchestrated his team’s comeback against Everton. In the 72nd minute, his brilliant free-kick pulled a goal back, and eight minutes later, Manuel Ugarte equalized following another set-piece delivery from Fernandes. Late in the game, Bruno had a chance to secure victory, but Jordan Pickford made a crucial save to deny his shot.

Pinpoint accuracy from @B_Fernandes8 🎯#MUFC || #PL

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) February 23, 2025

• Midfielder: Marco Asensio (Aston Villa)

The Spaniard, who joined Villa less than a month ago, made a major impact in his fourth match for the club, scoring twice to lead his team to victory over Chelsea. Notably, his previous goal came four months ago.

Marco you beauty 💥 pic.twitter.com/tiD0SnRYGD

— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) February 23, 2025

• Left winger: Mikkel Damsgaard (Brentford)

The 24-year-old Dane put in an impressive display against Leicester, delivering four accurate crosses and two long passes. He also assisted two goals, bringing his tally to 10 assists this Premier League season—second only to Mohamed Salah.

🅰️ 2 Assists🆚 100% Tackles won🎨 3 Chances created⚔️ 4 Duels won🔙 5 RecoveriesMikkel Damsgaard szn. pic.twitter.com/3YOB7868Hg

— Brentford FC (@BrentfordFC) February 22, 2025

• Right winger: Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)

The Egyptian continues to amaze. This week, Liverpool played twice, and in both matches, Salah registered a goal and an assist.

In his last eight appearances across all competitions, Salah has recorded at least one goal contribution in each game. The Liverpool forward has now delivered a goal and an assist in 11 matches this season.

He also became the first player in Premier League history to record 1+1 in both league matches against the defending champions in a single season.

Another goal and assist for the Egyptian King 🇪🇬👑Your #MCILIV Player of the Match 🏆 pic.twitter.com/JnaC5aG0J4

— Liverpool FC (@LFC) February 23, 2025

• Striker: Alexander Isak (Newcastle)

After a two-match goal drought, the Swede found his scoring touch again with a quickfire brace against Nottingham Forest—netting twice in just 10 minutes.

Isak now has 19 goals this season, tying Erling Haaland for second place in the Golden Boot race. He has also reached 50 goals in 76 Premier League matches for Newcastle.

Two goals in two minutes for Alex Isak! ⚡️ pic.twitter.com/Ex1pCyh8RI

— Newcastle United (@NUFC) February 23, 2025

• Striker: Dominik Szoboszlai (Liverpool)

The 24-year-old Hungarian was instrumental alongside Salah in Liverpool’s victory over Manchester City, scoring a goal and providing an assist.

Szoboszlai also had another good scoring opportunity but failed to convert. He registered two blocked shots, one successful dribble, and completed 78% of his passes, including one key pass.

Boss, Dom 😍 pic.twitter.com/UR1lYFWMox

— Liverpool FC (@LFC) February 23, 2025

• Manager: Arne Slot (Liverpool)

The Dutchman became the first Liverpool manager to defeat Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City twice in a Premier League season—and he did it in his debut campaign.

Against City, Slot’s team displayed composure and control, dictating the game with remarkable efficiency. This was a victory secured with authority, leaving Liverpool in pole position in the title race.

🚨 Arne Slot: “No-one saw us as a title contender when we started the season”. pic.twitter.com/UpypnsjzwH

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 23, 2025

On the first matchday, Feyenoord and Milan played to a draw, securing a place in the Round of 16 for the Rotterdam club. Club Brugge surprisingly cruised past Atalanta on the road. Benfica and Monaco played out a high-scoring draw, which saw the Portuguese side advance. Meanwhile, Bayern Munich barely escaped elimination, scoring a late equalizer in stoppage time against Celtic to progress.

On the second matchday, Borussia Dortmund and Sporting failed to find the net, allowing the Black and Yellows to secure their place in the next round. PSG produced a historic performance, thrashing Brest with seven goals—marking the club's biggest-ever victory in European competition.

Manchester City suffered a shocking elimination at the hands of Real Madrid, marking the first time a Pep Guardiola-led team has failed to reach the Champions League Round of 16. Elsewhere, PSV edged Juventus in extra time.

Now, let’s take a look at the best XI from the second-leg matches of the Champions League playoff preliminary round.

🧤 In the match against Atalanta, the 36-year-old veteran was a standout performer for Brugge. Despite conceding a goal, he made 8 crucial saves. The Belgian goalkeeper also denied Ademola Lookman’s penalty in the 61st minute, preventing the Italians from cutting the deficit.

Big Si! 🤩 #ATACLU #UCL

— Club Brugge KV (@ClubBrugge) February 19, 2025

⚡ The Canadian was Bayern’s game-changer against Celtic. Substituted in the 64th minute, he made an immediate impact and scored the decisive goal in stoppage time, securing Bayern’s spot in the last 16.

In just 30 minutes on the field, Davies completed 20 accurate passes (87%), one successful dribble, and won a key ground duel.

Was der 𝑬𝒊𝒏𝒛𝒖𝒈 𝒊𝒏𝒔 𝑨𝒄𝒉𝒕𝒆𝒍𝒇𝒊𝒏𝒂𝒍𝒆 bedeutet. ❤️🤍 #UCL pic.twitter.com/DxEff2MNGS

— FC Bayern München (@FCBayern) February 19, 2025

🛡️ The Brazilian captain was a defensive rock, recording 3 clearances, 3 blocked shots, 1 interception, and a goal-line clearance.

He dominated in aerial duels, winning 6 out of 8 and was immaculate on the ground. Marquinhos also delivered 76 accurate passes (94%), including 6 long balls and 1 key pass.

🔝 The Dutch defender put in a colossal performance against Juventus, making 12 clearances, 4 tackles, and 5 interceptions.

In addition, he completed 70 accurate passes (89%), including 7 long balls. Most importantly, Flamingo’s goal in the 98th minute sealed PSV’s place in the Round of 16. It was already his third goal in this Champions League campaign.

🇳🇱⭐️ | 𝐑𝐲𝐚𝐧 𝐅𝐥𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐨 (𝟐𝟐) vs Juventus:Winning Goal.11 Clearances.5 Interceptions.3 Tackles.89% Pass Accuracy.7/10 Successful Long Balls.5/11 Ground Duels Won.4/8 Aerial Duels Won.He literally put PSV in the Last 16 Round.𝐂𝐄𝐑𝐓𝐈𝐅𝐈𝐄𝐃 𝐁𝐀𝐋𝐋𝐄𝐑. pic.twitter.com/NjjqHtEtUm

— Rising Stars XI (@RisingStarXI) February 19, 2025

🔥 The Uruguayan was a key figure in Real Madrid’s dominant display against Manchester City.

Valverde contributed 2 clearances, 2 tackles, and 1 blocked shot. In possession, he completed 55 accurate passes (93%), including 6 long balls and 4 key passes. His crucial assist to Mbappé in the 61st minute helped Real Madrid extend their lead.

🇺🇾 Federico Valverde at RB 🆚 Man City:🎯 1 assist😳 4 chances created 🥇👟 93% pass accuracy👍 59 passes attempted👌🏽 55 passes completed☑️ 6 accurate long balls👍 2/3 ground duels won🛡️ 2 interceptions💪 100% tackles won⭐️ 8.3 match ratingIncredible player! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/yZtwYYzdnX

— Sholy Nation Sports (@Sholynationsp) February 19, 2025

🎯 The Spaniard was a creative force, providing 2 assists for PSG—marking his first double-assist game in over four years.

Ruiz completed 46 passes (87%), including 3 key passes and 2 long balls, and created two big chances, both converted into goals.

Fabian Ruiz mérite du respect. pic.twitter.com/ewBBzhi6hx

— B𝖔isdelëaû🦖 🐊 (@Etleau) February 19, 2025

💪 The German midfielder was the most active player on the pitch for Bayern. He completed 114 passes (96%), including 8 long balls and 6 key passes. He also delivered one accurate cross and created a big scoring chance.

🇩🇪⭐️ | I know he is 30 years-old but I have to share the stats of 𝐉𝐨𝐬𝐡𝐮𝐚 𝐊𝐢𝐦𝐦𝐢𝐜𝐡 with the ball tonight:114 Passes Completed.6 Key Passes.8/9 Successful Long Balls.This is 𝐍𝐎𝐓 𝐍𝐎𝐑𝐌𝐀𝐋. pic.twitter.com/D0lqhZKU5A

— Rising Stars XI (@RisingStarXI) February 19, 2025

⚡ The Georgian winger was a nightmare for Brest’s defense. He won 10 of 15 ground duels, completed 6 out of 8 dribbles, and made 41 accurate passes (82%), including 3 key passes and one cross.

Kvaratskhelia scored a goal and provided an assist—his first Champions League 1+1 performance since October 2022.

😮‍💨 Le premier but en @ChampionsLeague sous les couleurs du Paris Saint-Germain pour Kvara ! ⚽️#UCL | #PSGSB29 (2-0) pic.twitter.com/cYFgT7hRyW

— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_inside) February 19, 2025

⚽ The Moroccan delivered a clutch performance against Juventus, winning 8 out of 13 duels and completing 41 passes (80%), including 4 key passes.

Saibari created one big chance and scored the equalizer in the 74th minute, forcing extra time where PSV eventually triumphed.

🤯🤯🤯#PSVJUV #UCL pic.twitter.com/A2Qq6pYheg

— PSV (@PSV) February 19, 2025

🔥 The 19-year-old Belgian of Moroccan descent was the hero of Brugge’s victory over Atalanta, scoring two of his team’s three goals.

With this brace, Talbi became only the fourth player under 20 to score a Champions League knockout-stage double, joining Mbappé, Zaniolo, and Haaland.

What a night, what a guy. ✨💎 #ATACLU #UCL #PlayForUnforgettable

— Club Brugge KV (@ClubBrugge) February 18, 2025

👑 The King of Manchester. Mbappé delivered a hat-trick against City, opening the scoring in the 4th minute, doubling Real’s lead in the 33rd, and completing his treble just after halftime.

Across the two legs, Mbappé scored four goals against Pep Guardiola’s side, propelling Madrid to the next round with a 6-3 aggregate score.

🎩 HAT-TRICK 🎩 pic.twitter.com/D6GRwiVTl3

— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) February 19, 2025

📋 Brugge’s victory over Atalanta was one of the biggest upsets of the round. Despite being underdogs, Hayen’s tactical brilliance led his team to a 5-2 aggregate win.

His compact defensive setup neutralized Gasperini’s signature high press, while Brugge’s quick counterattacks exposed the Italian defense’s weaknesses. Unlike Atalanta’s volume-heavy approach (30 shots vs 7), Brugge capitalized on efficiency, scoring three goals from minimal chances.

Club Brugge zeggen ze daartegen, Club Brugge. 🥰💙🖤 #ATACLU #UCL #PlayForUnforgettable

— Club Brugge KV (@ClubBrugge) February 19, 2025

Brighton crushed Chelsea, while Manchester City defeated Newcastle. After beating Leicester, Arsenal extended their unbeaten streak to 15 matches. Aston Villa played to a draw with Ipswich.

Brentford secured an away victory over West Ham, Bournemouth also triumphed on the road against Southampton, and Everton defeated Crystal Palace. Fulham unexpectedly beat Nottingham.

Liverpool, despite not registering a single shot on target in the second half, still managed to defeat Wolverhampton. Manchester United suffered a narrow away defeat to Tottenham, failing to score for the 10th time this season.

• Goalkeeper: Guglielmo Vicario (Tottenham)

The Italian marked his return from injury with a clean sheet. In the first half against Manchester United, Vicario saved his team from conceding by stopping Garnacho’s shot.

Overall, his six saves helped Spurs maintain defensive solidity, secure three points, and climb to 12th place in the table.

😮 First match since November🧤 6 saves made💥 Clean sheet keptAn inspired return for Guglielmo Vicario 👏#TOTMUN pic.twitter.com/elCVnDgMVz

— Premier League (@premierleague) February 16, 2025

• Left-back: Keane Lewis-Potter (Brentford)

In the away match against West Ham, Keane registered two tackles, two clearances, and one interception. He completed 28 passes (82% accuracy), including nine long balls, two key passes, and one cross.

Lewis-Potter won both of his aerial duels and four out of seven ground duels. He also had one shot on target and completed one successful dribble.

↔️ 82% Pass Accuracy🚀 9/12 Long Passes🆚️ 100% Tackles Won🧱 5 Defensive Actions🔙 7 RecoveriesKLP. Immense. pic.twitter.com/SPjDLkgEsX

— Brentford FC (@BrentfordFC) February 15, 2025

Centre-back: Ben Davies (Tottenham)

In the victory over Manchester United, the Welshman made six clearances, along with one tackle and one blocked shot. He completed 77 passes (94% accuracy), including one key pass and one long ball.

Out of eight duels on the ground and in the air, he emerged victorious in five.

• Centre-back: Adam Webster (Brighton)

Against Chelsea, Adam recorded seven clearances and contributed with two interceptions, two tackles, and two blocked shots. Webster completed 46 passes (78% accuracy), including seven long balls. The Englishman won three ground duels and one aerial duel.

What a performance from Adam Webster! 👊 pic.twitter.com/ManrT7hsjp

— Brighton & Hove Albion (@OfficialBHAFC) February 15, 2025

• Right-back: Yankuba Minteh (Brighton)

The 20-year-old Gambian scored two of Brighton’s three goals against Chelsea. The last time Minteh registered a brace was in April 2024 when he played for Feyenoord Rotterdam.

In addition, Yankuba made five tackles, one clearance, and one interception. Out of 17 duels on the ground and in the air, he won 12 and also completed three successful dribbles.

Yankuba's brilliant brace to beat Chelsea! ⚽️⚽️ Highlights in partnership with @MPBcom. 🤝 pic.twitter.com/LT9qEi4grw

— Brighton & Hove Albion (@OfficialBHAFC) February 15, 2025

• Central midfielder: Ryan Christie (Bournemouth)

For the first time since July 2023, Christie recorded both a goal and an assist in a single match. Interestingly, the last time this happened was also against Southampton.

The Scotsman completed 47 passes (87% accuracy), including five long balls, two key passes, and one cross. Ryan won seven out of 12 duels, made three clearances, two tackles, and one interception.

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿⚽️| 𝙍𝙮𝙖𝙣 𝘾𝙝𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙚!Here for the goal, stay for the celebration!Ryan Christie gets his second of the season as Bournemouth as he doubled their lead v Southamptonhttps://t.co/FF2Fipk98U

— Everything Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 (@AboutScotlandd) February 15, 2025

• Central midfielder: James Maddison (Tottenham)

Having missed Tottenham’s last five matches, James needed only 13 minutes to score the goal that secured Spurs a crucial three points.

Back in the team. Back in the goals. pic.twitter.com/Cjm54kHdMA

— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) February 16, 2025

• Left winger: Kaoru Mitoma (Brighton)

In the 30th minute against Chelsea, the Japanese winger controlled a pass from the goalkeeper beautifully and, with three touches, slotted the ball past the Blues’ defense.

Mitoma also won both of his aerial duels and came out on top in five out of nine ground duels. He registered one clearance, one tackle, and one interception.

Unbelievable control from Kaoru before a fantastic finish... 🤩💫 @MonsterEnergy ⚡️ pic.twitter.com/go2RSNZge3

— Brighton & Hove Albion (@OfficialBHAFC) February 15, 2025

• Right winger: Ethan Nwaneri (Arsenal)

Against Leicester, Ethan completed six out of seven successful dribbles. He won 12 out of 15 duels and completed 28 passes (88% accuracy), including three key passes, two incisive passes, and one long ball, as well as providing an assist.

The 17-year-old Englishman registered his fourth goal contribution. Only Wayne Rooney (12), Michael Owen (8), and Cesc Fàbregas (6) had more Premier League goal contributions before turning 18. Nwaneri came close to scoring himself but struck the post twice.

Pulling the strings.The Premier League Player of the Match: Ethan Nwaneri 👏 pic.twitter.com/H9GtraBhCo

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) February 15, 2025

• Attacking midfielder: Omar Marmoush (Manchester City)

In just his third match for the Cityzens, Marmoush netted a hat-trick, scoring all three goals within 15 minutes. Additionally, the Egyptian maintained an 88% pass accuracy, delivered three crosses, won three fouls, made two interceptions, and registered one clearance.

The Pharaoh of Manchester 🇪🇬😮‍💨 pic.twitter.com/Ehr881gSX2

— Manchester City (@ManCity) February 15, 2025

• Striker: Mikel Merino (Arsenal)

The Spaniard entered the match in the 69th minute with the score tied at 0-0, playing as a striker. Just 12 minutes later, he opened the scoring, and seven minutes after that, he bagged a brace. This was Merino’s first-ever match playing as a striker.

“A good day to score. I forgot to buy my wife a Valentine’s Day gift, so I’m dedicating these goals to her. I think she’ll appreciate it more than chocolates or roses,” joked the Spaniard after the game.

BIG MOMENT 🤩 pic.twitter.com/JYYDaWeffG

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) February 15, 2025

• Coach: David Moyes (Everton)

In Round 25, the Scottish manager’s team secured an away victory over Crystal Palace. Earlier in the week, in their rescheduled Round 15 match, Everton earned a draw against Liverpool in the Merseyside Derby.

Since David Moyes’ return, no team has earned more points (13) than Everton (four wins and one draw). The Toffees’ unbeaten streak has now reached five matches.

Since David Moyes' return, no @premierleague team has picked up more points than the Toffees' tally of 13.BOSS. 💙 pic.twitter.com/HtelbInY01

— Everton (@Everton) February 16, 2025