Nagoya Grampus vs Ratchaburi

Nagoya Grampus are warm favorites to maintain their eye-catching AFC Champions League start as they meet basement boys Ratchaburi at the Rajamangala Stadium.

Nagoya have already put one foot into the Champions League knock-out phase following a stunning start to their Group G campaign that saw them win each of their opening three group stage fixtures ‘to nil.’ Equally impressive in the attacking third, the Japanese giants have netted 3+ goals in their last two Champions League outings, tallying eight so far. Particularly dangerous in the later stages of play, Massimo Ficcadenti’s men have got on the scoresheet on or beyond the 60th minute in each of their three Group G fixtures thus far. Interestingly, though, Nagoya had drawn a blank in three consecutive games in all competitions before mustering up a resounding average of 3.25 goals across their last four competitive contests. Odds-on favorites to solidify a top spot in this section, Nagoya hammered Ratchaburi 4-0 in the reverse fixture a few days ago.

As for Ratchaburi, they are on the cusp of exiting the competition after losing their opening three Group G matches by an aggregate score of 7-0. Another noteworthy takeaway from Ratchaburi’s underwhelming displays in the Champions League this term is that they have yet to keep a second-half clean sheet. Additionally, the visitors head into proceedings having failed to win any of their last seven games in all competitions (D2, L5), conceding 2+ goals on five occasions while drawing a blank five times. Away from home, the ‘Dragons’ have gone from back-to-back victories to four straight fixtures without winning (D1, L3), letting in precisely two goals on each occasion.

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Jeonbuk Motors vs Tampines Rovers

Lokomotiv Stadium is the venue as Jeonbuk Motors look to maintain an unbeaten start to their AFC Champions League campaign against out-of-sorts Tampines Rovers.

After beating Chiangrai United 2-1 in their Group H curtain-raiser, Jeonbuk squandered a two-goal lead against Gamba Osaka on Matchday 2 (2-2). However, the ‘Warriors’ remain firmly in control of their destiny as they take the field in high spirits after netting an average of 3.00 goals across their last three competitive matches. Indeed, Kim Sang-sik’s men have enjoyed a dramatic development, going from four consecutive defeats to four straight games without losing (W2, D2). At home, though, the abovementioned victory over Chiangrai represents Jeonbuk’s solitary win in five matches (D1, L3), a sequence that saw them fail to score before half-time on three occasions. Overwhelming favorites to claim all three points, Jeonbuk can draw confidence from finding the net in all but one of their 11 home matches this calendar year.

In the meantime, Tampines’ Champions League campaign have started with a whimper rather than a bang, with the Singapore outfit losing their opening two group stage games without scoring. Two of their three goals conceded across that pair of defeats to Gamba Osaka and Chiangrai came beyond the 85th minute. A run of three consecutive losses in the build-up to this encounter represents a massive turnaround from a streak of five straight matches without defeat beforehand (W3, D2). What’s more, before drawing a blank in their last two competitive outings, the ‘Stags’ had netted 2+ goals in six competitive fixtures in a row, averaging 3.00 goals per game. Topically, Tampines had troubled the scoreboard in 13 straight competitive trips before being shut out by Chiangrai in their most recent away match.

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Chiangrai United vs Gamba Osaka

Chiangrai United and Gamba Osaka go head-to-head at the Milliy Stadium in an exciting AFC Champions League Group G encounter.

Chiangrai picked themselves up from a 2-1 away loss to Jeonbuk Motors on Matchday 1 to beat out-of-form Tampines Rovers 1-0 last time out, with three of the four goals scored/conceded across those fixtures coming in the second half of play. The ‘Beetles’ are no strangers to tight, keenly-contested affairs, as evidenced by the fact that each of their last eight competitive matches featured a full-time margin of under 1.5 goals (W6, D1, L1). Curiously, five games during that eight-match sequence yielded the identical 2-1 scoreline, which has been the case in two of Chiangrai’s last four competitive home fixtures. Speaking of their home games, Emerson Pereira’s men have established as a force to be reckoned with on home turf, as they go into this meeting unbeaten in their last nine home outings (W7, D2).

On the other hand, following a convincing 2-0 away win over Tampines in their Group H opener, Gamba recovered from a two-goal deficit to hold Jeonbuk to a 2-2 home draw last time out. As a result, they have now scored 2+ goals five times in six matches in all competitions after scoring one or less in the previous 12 in a row. Moreover, three clean sheets from their last five competitive games represent a notable defensive improvement comparing to a run of seven straight fixtures without a shutout. Yet, low scoring has been a common theme in Gamba’s away matches over the past five months, with each of their last nine road trips in that sequence producing under 2.5 total goals. Worryingly, Tsuneyasu Miyamoto’s side failed to find the net six times during that nine-game stretch.

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Ulsan Hyundai vs Pathum United

Ulsan Hyundai and Pathum United continue their AFC Champions League journey at the Thammasat Stadium following winning starts.

Lukas Hinterseer’s goal in the stoppage time propelled Ulsan to a narrow 1-0 away win over Viettel on Matchday 1, stretching their unbeaten run in all competitions to 11 straight games (W6, D5). Defensively robust, Ulsan kept six clean sheets during that 11-match sequence, though they conceded 2+ goals in three of the other five fixtures. Since going down 1-0 to Jeonbuk in October 2020, the hosts have gone unbeaten in their subsequent 17 matches on home turf (W11, D6 – 90 minutes only), registering four shutouts in their last six such contests. Equally impressive at the other end of the pitch, Hong Myung-bo’s men have found the net in five consecutive home games, netting 2+ goals on three occasions in the process.

Meanwhile, Pathum United dismantled Kaya 4-1 at home in their Group F opener, scoring twice in each half to bounce back from a tight 1-0 away loss to Muang Thong United in the domestic championship. That defeat represents Pathum’s lone reverse this calendar year, with the ‘Rabbits’ winning 11 of their remaining 14 matches in all competitions since the turn of 2021 (D3). Low scoring has been a theme in United’s recent competitive away fixtures, with six of the last seven featuring under 2.5 total goals (W5, D1, L1). Ahead of the kick-off, Aurelio Vidmar’s men have suffered a dip in form, going from 12 successive victories away from home to back-to-back trips without winning (D1, L1), failing to score before half-time on both occasions.

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Sweden vs Ukraine

Hampden Park is the venue as Sweden and Ukraine go head-to-head in a somewhat unexpected Euro 2020 Round-of-16 encounter.

Viktor Claesson’s 94th-minute strike against Poland was enough to give Sweden a 3-2 victory and a top place in Group E, helping them preserve an unbeaten record at Euro 2020 (W2, D1). Janne Andersson’s men have proved to be a water-tight defensive unit of late, conceding an average of just 0.38 goals across their last eight international fixtures. In fact, six matches during that spread of games yielded a clean sheet, including two group stage encounters against Spain and Slovakia! Of all the sides to reach the knock-out phase, Sweden had the lowest average possession rate (29.6%) in the group stage, though their conversion rate of 44% remains second only to Portugal. But the ‘Blågult’ found themselves on the wrong end of a 2-1 scoreline the last time they met Ukraine at a major tournament (Euro 2020), with the Ukrainians’ current boss Andriy Shevchenko scoring a brace in that showdown.

On the other hand, despite losing two of their three group stage matches (W1), Ukraine finished as the fourth ‘third-best’ side on goal difference, having scored over 1.5 goals in two of their three games in Group C. Seeking victory in their first-ever Euro knock-out appearance as a sovereign nation, Shevchenko’s men will have to step up defensively after failing to keep a clean sheet in each of their three Euro 2020 matches so far. The Ukrainians cannot find much comfort in their overall European Championship record either, having won just two of their nine games at the tournament whilst losing the other seven. Yet, they can take some confidence from avoiding defeat in three of their four international meetings with Sweden overall (W2, D1).

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Mexico vs Panama

Mexico and Panama will square off against each other at the Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tennessee in an exciting all-CONCACAF friendly.

Mexico head into proceedings in the midst of a minor deep in form, having gone from back-to-back wins to three consecutive draws if considered just 90 minutes of play. Additionally, the Mexicans have struggled in front of goal lately, scoring under 1.5 goals four times across their previous six internationals while drawing a blank twice in the last two. A match against Panama should help them rediscover their mojo, considering ‘El Tri’ have scored precisely three goals apiece across their previous two H2Hs (W2). If they find the net here, Gerardo Martino’s men are likely to do it late on, as nine of their last ten international strikes have come beyond the 60th minute. At the other end of the pitch, three clean sheets in five internationals should encourage Mexico’s hopes of returning to winning ways.

In the meantime, Panama’s goalless away draw with Curacao in a World Cup qualifier last time out ended a run of five successive victories, albeit marking a fifth clean sheet in seven internationals. Before being held scoreless to Curacao, Panama had scored 2+ goals in four matches in a row, averaging 5.00 goals per game! With that said, ‘Los Canaleros’ have failed to trouble the scoresheet in five of their last six meetings with Mexico (D1, L5), with their lone strike in that period courtesy of the Mexicans’ own goal. Still, Panama have been fun to watch away from home lately, with three of their last four road fixtures featuring over 2.5 total goals at an average of 6.00 per match.

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Kaya vs Viettel

The two sides that had lost their previous AFC Champions League encounters will lock horns at the Thammasat Stadium as Kaya take on Viettel in the second round of Group F fixtures.

Kaya will be desperate to bounce back from a horrendous 4-1 away loss to Pathum United in their Group F opener, with that defeat marking their first reverse in ten competitive games (W5, D4). On the bright side, though, the ‘Lions’ have put together six straight home matches without a loss in all competitions (W4, D2), keeping a clean sheet on each occasion. It’s worth noting, though, that their last home fixture dates back to November 2020. Yet, with their four consecutive home games featuring under 1.5 total goals, you may assume a low-scoring contest is well on the cards. Indeed, a lack of firepower in the front third has seen Kaya score one goal or less in eight of their last nine competitive matches.

In the meantime, Viettel suffered a narrow 1-0 home loss to Ulsan Hyundai on Matchday 1, though they enter this clash as warm favorites to pick up all three points. The Vietnamese side had gone seven straight matches without losing in all competitions (W6, D1) before that reverse, despite scoring precisely once per match on four occasions during that stretch of games. Additionally, since going down 2-0 to domestic rivals Binh Duong in October 2020, the ‘Red Tornado’ have racked up an impressive ten-match unbeaten streak away from home (W8, D2). Curiously, though, each of their eight victories during the abovementioned ten-game sequence came via a single-goal margin, with six yielding the identical 1-0 scoreline.

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Guangzhou vs Kitchee

Guangzhou will be desperate to get off the mark in the AFC Champions League when they take on Kitchee at the Chang Arena in the third round of group stage fixtures.

It’s been a thoroughly underwhelming start to their Champions League campaign for Guangzhou, as they’ve lost both of their opening group stage games by over 1.5 goals ‘to nil.’ Another failure here is likely to rule them out of contention for a top-two finish in Group J, though a return of just two wins from their last seven competitive fixtures (D2, L3) cannot provide courage to the home team. Moreover, except for a 2-0 triumph over domestic rivals Shenzhen in early May, the ‘South China Tagers’ have failed to win six of their last seven home matches in all competitions (D2, L4), conceding over 1.5 goals five times in the process. Fabio Cannavaro can find some encouragement in his side scoring twice per game in two of their last three competitive home fixtures.

On the other hand, the visitors have failed to build on a 2-0 home win over Port on Matchday 1, surrendering a half-time lead to lose 2-1 to Cerezo Osaka on the road last time out. Ahead of the kick-off, none of Kitchee’s previous 12 games in all competitions have ended as a draw (W9, L3), with 50% of those results (win/loss) being accompanied by a clean sheet. Warming up for this encounter, the ‘Bluewaves’ have lost identical 2-1 away losses, which represents a notable downfall compared to a run of nine consecutive road trips without defeat (W8, D1). Yet, there’s been plenty of action in Kitchee’s recent away matches as five of the last six have produced over 2.5 total goals.

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England vs Germany

England and Germany go head-to-head at Wembley Stadium in a mouth-watering Euro 2020 Round-of-16 showdown.

England have started a major international tournament with three clean sheets for the first time since their triumphant 1996 World Cup campaign, the same one that marked their win against Germany in a knock-out fixture (Euros or World Cup). Indeed, the ‘Three Lions’ have since suffered defeat in each of their three knock-out meetings with the Germans across major tournaments, two of which came via penalty shoot-outs. Interestingly, each of England’s last four triumphs has yielded the identical 1-0 scoreline, as many as their previous 26 victories had been. Additionally, Gareth Southgate’s men have gone unbeaten in nine consecutive international matches (W8, D1) since losing 2-0 away to Belgium in the Nations League, notably keeping a first-half clean sheet in each of those nine games. In fact, since beating Poland 2-1 at home in a World Cup qualifier, they have five shutouts in a row.

On the other hand, Leon Goretzka’s 84th-minute strike gave Germany a 2-2 draw against Hungary on Matchday 3 and a place in the Euro 2020 knock-outs. Unlike England, Germany’s Euro 2020 fixtures have been fun to watch, with each of the last two seeing both teams score at least twice in matches featuring 2+ second-half goals (W1, D1). Worryingly, though, since beating Slovakia 3-0 at this stage of Euro 2016, the Germans have failed to keep a clean sheet in any of their subsequent eight matches at major tournaments. But ‘Die Mannschaft’ can find inspiration in reaching the semi-finals in each of their last three appearances at the European Championships. Indeed, Germany have gone past the round of 16 each time they’ve reached the knock-out phase since the tournament was rebranded in 1966.

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Daegu vs United City

The AFC Champions League return to action as Daegu and United City go head-to-head at the Milliy Stadium in the second round of Group I fixtures.

Daegu’s Champions League campaign started with a whimper rather than a bang, with the Koreans succumbing to a 3-2 away loss to Kawasaki Frontale on Matchday 1. Before that reverse, they had gone 11 competitive matches without a loss (W9, D2), with seven (77.78%) of those victories being accompanied by a clean sheet. Since suffering a dismal 4-1 defeat to domestic rivals Gwangju in early March, the hosts have racked up an intimidating nine-game unbeaten run on home turf (W6, D3). However, entertainment has been sparse in their recent home fixtures, with six of the previous seven featuring under 2.5 total goals, including the last five in a row. Daegu’s home action usually sparks into life after half-time, as witnessed by the fact that five of their last six home goals scored/conceded came in the second half.

On the other hand, United City failed to hold onto a half-time lead against Beijing Guoan in their Group I curtain-raiser, drawing 1-1 at home. As a result, the visitors have now gone from five successive triumphs to back-to-back games without winning (D1, L1), failing to keep a clean sheet in each of their last three outings in all competitions. But this will be United City’s first match on foreign soil in 2021, with Jason White’s side winning three of their four away fixtures in 2020 (L1). Each of those four games won/lost saw the victor record a shutout, with their last two road trips yielding winning margins of 6+ goals!

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Cerezo Osaka vs Port

Chang Arena is the venue as Cerezo Osaka and Port go head-to-head in the third round of the AFC Champions League group stage fixtures.

Cerezo Osaka masterminded a stunning second-half comeback to beat Kitchee 2-1 on Matchday 2 to retain the top spot in Group J following a 2-0 away win over Guangzhou in their tournament opener. Those two victories are part of Cerezo’s three-game winning streak in all competitions, a sequence that follows a run of six consecutive competitive matches without success (D3, L3). An indifferent form across their last seven home fixtures could be a reason for concern, though, with Osaka picking up just three wins in that spread of games (D2, L2). Getting on the scoresheet should not be a problem, considering Levir Culpi’s men have found the net in each of their 11 home outings since the start of the calendar year.

Meanwhile, Port bounced back from a 2-0 away defeat to Kitchee in their group stage opener, cruising past Guangzhou 3-0 last time out. Before demolition of the Chinese side, Port had alternated between a draw (2) and a loss (2) across their previous four matches in all competitions, drawing a blank on three of those occasions. Away from home, though, the visitors have endured a dip in form, going from back-to-back victories to three straight games without winning (D2, L1), conceding precisely twice in their last two road trips. Low scoring has been a common theme in Port’s recent away fixtures, with three of their previous four travels seeing one or both teams fail to score in matches garnering under 2.5 total goals.

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Beijing Guoan vs Kawasaki Frontale

Beijing Guoan and Kawasaki Frontale are set to exchange tackles at the Lokomotiv Stadium in an exciting AFC Champions League Group I encounter.

Beijing bounced back from a 1-0 half-time deficit to clinch a 1-1 away draw against United City in their Group I opener, extending their unbeaten run in all competitions to three matches (W2, D1). Indeed, the hosts have enjoyed a dramatic upturn in form heading into this encounter, having gone from three straight defeats to three consecutive matches without losing. Notably, though, since the start of 2020, the ‘Imperial Guards’ have succumbed to just two losses in their 18 home games across various competitions (W13, D3, L2), winning the last two without conceding. Yet, there’s been a shortage of goals in their recent competitive home games as each of their previous three home fixtures featured under 2.5 total goals following a goalless half-time.

Meanwhile, Kawasaki recovered from an early deficit to beat Daegu 3-2 at home in their Group I curtain-raiser, with each of their three strikes coming between the 40th minute and the hour mark. As a result, the visitors stretched their unbeaten record in 2020 to 26 games in all competitions (W20, D6 – 90 minutes only) despite keeping a clean sheet in five of their last six competitive outings. Since losing 1-0 to domestic rivals Oita Trinita in November 2020, Toru Oniki’s men have gone undefeated in their subsequent 11 road trips in all competitions (W7, D4), scoring 2+ goals on eight occasions in that run. Still, an early action seems to be off the table, considering none of Kawasaki’s last three away fixtures saw an opener scored within the opening half an hour of play.

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Uruguay vs Paraguay

Estadio Olimpico Nilton Santos hosts an intriguing Copa America 2021 showdown between Uruguay and Paraguay, with the latter gunning for their first H2H win since October 2007.

Following a slow start to their Copa America 2021 journey (D1, L1), Uruguay cruised to a 2-0 win over minnows Bolivia last time out to land a place in the knock-outs for the second tournament in a row. Seeking their first Copa America success since 2011, the Uruguayans will at least hope to post back-to-back group stage wins in the competition for the first time since 1995! Though the abovementioned triumph over Bolivia halted Uruguay’s dismal five-match winless streak (D3, L2), ‘La Celeste’ continue to struggle in front of goal. Oscar Tabarez’s men have scored precisely once in their last two internationals after drawing a blank in four consecutive games beforehand. Unsurprisingly, low scoring has been a common theme in Uruguay’s recent fixtures, with each of the last six featuring under 2.5 total goals.

Meanwhile, the Paraguayans have recorded a pair of two-goal victories in their opening three group stage fixtures (L1) for the first time since 2007. Looking to finish top of their Copa America group for the first time since 2004, Paraguay must better Argentina’s result against Bolivia, which seems to be an unlikely scenario. Yet, Eduardo Berizzo’s men have to be careful about their slow entries, having conceded the opening goal within 15 minutes in three of their last four outings. Paraguay’s promising start to their Copa America 2021 voyage represents a significant turnaround from their pre-competition form, where they had managed just two wins from 41 competitive fixtures. Interestingly, ‘Los Guaraníes’ have netted five goals across their three Copa America group stage games so far, one less than they scored in their previous seven internationals combined.

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Argentina vs Bolivia

Argentina will be looking to cement a top place in Copa America 2021 Group A when they lock horns with CONMEBOL’s lowest-ranked nation Bolivia at the Arena Pantanal.

Regardless of the outcome of this clash, Bolivia will exit the Copa America group stage for the eighth time in their last nine tournament appearances and third in a row. The Bolivians have lost each of their opening three Group A fixtures and remain the only nation at Copa America 2021 yet to pick up a single point. Additionally, except for Erwin Saavedra’s spot-kick strike in a 3-1 loss to Paraguay on Matchday 1, ‘La Verde’ have produced just seven attempts on goal across their first three group stage matches, failing to convert any of them. With only pride left to play for, Bolivia will at least try to defy their disappointing Copa America H2H record against Argentina, which has seen them fail to win any of their six meetings at the tournament since 1979 (D2, L4).

On the other hand, the Argentineans have put together identical 1-0 wins over Uruguay and Paraguay following a 1-1 draw with Chile in their Group A curtain-raiser to ensure a top-two finish. However, Argentina will be looking to claim a top spot to avoid the risk of facing bitter rivals Brazil before the final. ‘La Albiceleste’ do not have to look beyond their impressive recent form for inspiration as they take the field undefeated in their last 16 internationals (W9, D7). Worryingly, though, Argentina attempted just eight shots against Paraguay on Matchday 3, their joint-lowest under current boss Lionel Scaloni. Curiously, each of their three goals at the Copa America 2021 so far has come within 33 minutes, with 11 of their last 12 international strikes coming before half-time.

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Ratchaburi vs Nagoya Grampus

Ratchaburi will be keen to get off the mark in the AFC Champions League Group G when they take on Nagoya Grampus at the Rajamangala National Stadium.

Ratchaburi’s hopes of making it out of Group G have suffered a massive blow with back-to-back losses to start their group stage journey. Seeking their first goal in the group stage, Ratchaburi cannot take much courage from their recent scoring output at home. They have frustratingly drawn a blank in three of their last six home matches, scoring precisely once per game in the other three. Entertainment has been relatively sparse across their previous four fixtures on home turf as they have all featured under 1.5 total goals (W1, D2, L1). Yet, if they find the net here, the ‘Dragons’ are likely to do it before half-time, considering six of their last seven home goals scored have come in the first half of play.

Nagoya have won both of their opening group stage fixtures ‘to nil,’ with three of their four goals scored across those triumphs coming on or beyond the 60th minute. A 1-0 away win over Johor DT on Matchday 1 extend their unbeaten run on the road to four straight games (W2, D2), a sequence that saw them keep all four clean sheets. Additionally, the ‘Grampus’ have registered nine shutouts in nine of their last ten away matches in all competitions (W6, D3, L1), with four of their six triumphs in that spread of games yielding the identical 1-0 scoreline. The last time Nagoya won an away fixture in which they conceded a goal was against Avispa Fukuoka in late February.

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Pohang Steelers vs Johor Darul Ta’zim

Pohang Steel Yard is the venue, as Pohang Steelers and Johor Darul Ta’zim go head-to-head in the third round of the AFC Champions League Group G fixtures.

Following a comfortable 2-0 home triumph over Ratchaburi on Matchday 1, Pohang fell apart in the second round of the group stage fixtures, going down 3-0 to Nagoya Grampus on the road. Interestingly, after drawing four consecutive competitive matches, none of Pohang’s last six games in all competition have ended level (W4, L2), with four of them seeing the winner keep a clean sheet. The ‘Steelers’ will take the field in high spirits, having avoided defeat in their last five competitive home fixtures (W3, D2), notably keeping a clean sheet four times in the process. Kim Gi-dong’s men have found the net beyond the 80th-minute mark in back-to-back home outings. Interestingly, five of their last six home goals scored have come on or beyond the 80th minute.

On the other hand, Johor DT responded to a 1-0 home loss to Nagoya Grampus in their group stage opener with an identical away triumph against Ratchaburi on Matchday 2. Since being held to a 1-1 away draw to Kuala Lumpur City in late April, Johor haven’t drawn any of their subsequent four competitive matches (W3, L1), with each result (win/loss) in that sequence seeing the victor keep a clean sheet. Away from home, the ‘Southern Tigers’ have racked up an intimidating 13-game unbeaten streak in all competitions since succumbing to a 5-1 loss to Vissel Kobe in this exact tournament in February 2020. On top of that, they have recorded four shutouts across their last five competitive trips, with the solitary goal conceded in that spread of fixtures coming in the stoppage time of the first half.

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France vs Switzerland

The Arena Națională in Bucharest hosts an exciting Euro 2020 last-16 showdown between reigning world champions France and Switzerland.

Despite finishing top of the ‘Group of Death’ without a single loss (W1, D2), France have yet to showcase their full potential at Euro 2020 so far. However, an extra-time loss to Portugal in the Euro 2016 final remains their solitary defeat in their last 17 games across major tournaments. ‘Les Bleus’ take the field having not lost any of their previous 19 matches in all competitions over the past couple of years (W14, D4), last losing to Turkey in a European Championship qualifier in June 2019. Notably, ten of their 14 wins during that 19-game sequence were followed by a half-time lead. After reaching the knock-out stages for the sixth time in their previous seven Euro appearances, the reigning World Cup champions are looking to advance to the quarter-finals in a fifth consecutive major tournament.

Meanwhile, Switzerland dismantled Turkey 3-1 in their final group stage fixture to cancel out a slow start to their Euro 2020 journey (D1, L1) and qualify for the Euro knock-outs for the second competition running. Even though they’ve now reached the knock-out stages in four successive major tournaments, the ‘Nati’ have failed to progress to the quarter-finals in each of their last three attempts. Worryingly, though, only three of Switzerland’s 20 matches against the reigning world champions have ended in their favor (W3, D9, L8). Furthermore, Vladimir Petkovic’s men are winless in seven encounters against France (D4, L3), with each of those four draws coming in the last five meetings. Delivering action from the onset, eight of the Swiss’ last 11 international fixtures (excluding walkovers) have seen the opener netted by the 15th minute.

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Gamba Osaka vs Jeonbuk Motors

Gamba Osaka and Jeonbuk Motors will lock horns at the Lokomotiv Stadium in a high-profile AFC Champions League Group H contest.

A comfortable 2-0 triumph over Tampines Rovers on Matchday 2 stretched Gamba’s imperious unbeaten run in all competitions five matches (W4, D1), marking a notable upturn in form compared to four straight losses beforehand. If football follows the script, a landslide victory for Gamba is on the cards, considering three of their last four competitive games have yielded wins via a two-goal margin. Delivering action from the get-go, the Japanese heavyweights have netted a first-half opener in four of their previous five outings across all competitions. Since losing their first-ever encounter against Jeonbuk, Tsuneyasu Miyamoto’s men have gone unbeaten in their subsequent competitive H2Hs (W1, D2), despite conceding first twice in that run of clashes. However, it’s worth noting that their last meeting dates back to September 2015.

Meanwhile, Jeonbuk claimed a tight 2-1 home win over Chiangrai United in their Group H opener, starting their Champions League with flying colors. Ahead of the kick-off, the visitors have enjoyed a massive upturn in form, going from eight successive matches without winning (D5, L3 – 90 minutes only) to back-to-back triumphs, both of which saw them win the first half ‘to nil.’ A 5-1 thumping of domestic rivals Seongnam in their most recent road trip brought Jeonbuk’s four-match winless away streak to a halt (D3, L1). However, Jeonbuk’s defensive woes remain a reason for concern, with the ‘Warriors’ failing to preserve a blank sheet in six of their last seven road trips in all competitions. Topically, they’ve conceded at least once in both of their previous away H2Hs with Gamba.

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Croatia vs Spain

Croatia and Spain are set to face-off against each other at the Parken Stadium in Copenhagen with a place in the quarter-finals of Euro 2020 on the line.

Croatia recovered from a disappointing start to their Euro 2020 journey (D1, L1) to beat Scotland 3-1 on Matchday 3 and advance to the knock-outs as Group D runners-up. However, the Croats have failed to progress from the first European Championship knock-out round in their last three attempts. Though they should not lack motivation, the ‘Blazers’ may find revenge as an added incentive, knowing Spain inflicted them their heaviest international defeat back in September 2018 (6-0). Since the beginning of the 2018 World Cup, Zlatko Dalic’s men have failed to find the net just once in ten matches across major tournaments, accruing a total of 18 goals across those fixtures. Getting on the scoresheet may not be a problem for Croatia, but their return of seven losses from as many games against FIFA’s top ten nations could be a reason for concern.

On the other hand, Spain’s Group E campaign started with back-to-back draws against Sweden and Poland, but ‘La Furia Roja’ sent a warning message to other Euro title contenders with a 5-0 demolition of Slovakia on Matchday 3. However, both of Spain’s previous appearances at major tournaments have ended in the round of 16, as they face the prospect of suffering three consecutive eliminations at this stage for the first time in the 21st century. Curiously, both games that saw them eliminated from Euro 2016 and the 2018 World Cup witnessed Spain concede inside the final 15 minutes of the first half and draw a blank after that. Encouragingly, though, the Spaniards are undefeated in 11 international fixtures (W5, D6), keeping a first-half clean sheet in each of their last six outings.

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Chiangrai United vs Tampines Rovers

Chiangrai United and Tampines Rovers will both be looking to bounce back from slow AFC Champions League start when they lock horns at the Milliy Stadium.

A 2-1 away loss to Jeonbuk Motors in their opening Group H fixture ended Chiangrai’s run of four consecutive matches without losing (W3, D1 – 90 minutes only). Curiously, five of Chiangrai’s last six games in all competitions have produced the identical 2-1 scoreline (W3, D1, L2), with two of those results (win/loss) seeing the winner come from behind to seal all three points. Even though only one of their last ten competitive matches has ended in a draw (W7, L2), Chiangrai played out plenty of tight, keenly-contested affairs in that sequence. Indeed, seven of those nine abovementioned games won/lost saw the victor prevail by a single-goal margin. Since going down 2-1 to Port in the domestic championship back in late January, the ‘Beetles’ have gone unbeaten in their subsequent nine home matches (W6, D3).

On the other hand, Tampines’ Group H journey started with a whimper rather than a bang, as they suffered a 2-0 home defeat to Nagoya Grampus on Matchday 1. That loss marked Tampines’ second consecutive reverse in all competitions, ending a run of 26 straight fixtures in which they found the back of the net. Moreover, Gavin Lee’s men continue to struggle defensively. The ‘Stags’ will be looking to keep their first clean sheet since early May after conceding 2+ goals in three of their last four competitive outings. It could be a daunting task, though, considering they had failed to register a shutout in seven consecutive road trips in all competitions before claiming a 4-0 triumph over Young Lions in the most recent away fixture.

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Venezuela vs Peru

Venezuela’s hopes of securing qualification into the Copa America 2021 knock-out stages are at stake, as they take on Peru at the Estádio Nacional de Brasília.

Despite failing to win any of their opening three group stage matches (D2, L1), Venezuela will advance to the knock-outs if they better Ecuador’s result against Brazil. Before scoring two second-half goals against Ecuador on Matchday 3, the Venezuelans had drawn a blank in their opening five halves on the Copa America action in Group B. Though the odds were against Covid-hit ‘La Vinotinto’ ahead of the tournament, they must be enthusiastic about their chances of making out of the group stage for the fifth time in their six Copa America appearances. Coming into this encounter off the back of five consecutive games without winning (D3, L2), José Peseiro’s men are desperate to open the scoring, knowing they have won each of their last six matches after striking first.

Meanwhile, well aware of the fact a draw here would earn them progression into the knock-out phase for the tenth tournament running, Peru will draw confidence from going unbeaten in their last four matches against Venezuela (W3, D1). On top of that, the Peruvians have scored precisely twice in their last two Copa America outings since losing 4-0 to Brazil in their tournament opener. There’s been plenty of early excitement in Peru’s Copa America 2021 fixtures so far, as each of their three group stage games featured the opening goal scored within 25 minutes in the first halves garnering 2+ goals. Curiously, ‘Los Incas’ fought back from a 2-0 half-time deficit to secure a 2-2 draw against Ecuador on Matchday 3, which has followed the same scenario from two of their last H2H meetings with Venezuela (D3).

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Netherlands vs Czech Republic

The Netherlands and the Czech Republic will square off against each other at the Puskás Aréna with a place in the quarter-finals of Euro 2020 on the line.

The Netherlands cruised to the top of Group C, winning all three group stage fixtures and scoring a tournament-high eight goals in the process. Frank De Boer’s ‘flying’ Dutchmen take the field in an impressive scoring form, having set the national record of ten consecutive matches in which they scored 2+ goals. The ‘Oranje’ are now looking to win their opening three games at the European Championships for only the second time in their history, last doing so at Euro 2000. The Netherlands’ hopes of reaching the quarter-finals will hinge on their ability to avoid penalties, knowing they have suffered eliminations in three of their last four penalty shoot-outs. There is a reason for concern, as they have lost five of their seven Euro knock-out fixtures since winning the competition in 1998.

Meanwhile, the Czech Republic experienced mixed fortunes across their three group stage games (W1, D1, L1), but it proved sufficient to reach the knock-outs as a third-placed team in Group D. However, they have managed just one victory in their last seven matches at the European Championships (D2, L4), frustratingly failing to progress from three of their previous four knock-out games at the tournament. Interestingly, each of the Czech Republic’s three knock-out fixtures played immediately after a group phase yielded a goalless half-time score in matches witnessing one side fail to score (W2, L1). Since the dissolution of Czechoslovakia, the Czechs have faced the Netherlands twice at the European Championships, returning partial success (W1, L1). Encouragingly, though, they have defeated this opposition in both of their previous competitive meetings, scoring 2+ goals on each occasion.

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Brazil vs Ecuador

Brazil and Ecuador will face off against each other at the Estádio Olímpico Pedro Ludovico in the final round of the Copa America 2021 Group B fixtures.

Brazil staged a stunning second-half comeback to defeat Colombia 2-1 last time out and maintain their 100% start to their Copa America 2021 journey (W3). Despite already nailing down the top place in Group B, Brazil are aiming to execute a perfect group stage campaign at Copa America for the first time in the 21st century. Despite being warm favorites against underperforming Ecuador, the Brazilians have failed to win the first half in their last four America America meetings with this opposition (D4), three of which produced a goalless half-time. With that said, the ‘Selecao’ have never lost a Copa America fixture against Ecuador (GP14 – W12, D2). Tite’s men have developed a habit of crashing their opponents late in the games, scoring 2+ goals beyond the 60th minute in each of their last three outings.

Meanwhile, the Ecuadorians stare at the prospect of enduring a winless group stage at Copa America for the second tournament running after accruing two draws and a loss from their opening three Group B matches. Ecuador must be frustrated not to win their last two group stage fixtures after winning the first half ‘to nil’ on each occasion (D2). Both of those games saw Gustavo Alfaro’s men concede precisely two second-half goals, with three of those four goals shipped coming within the opening ten minutes of the second half. To progress to the knock-outs, ‘La Tri’ must at least match Venezuela’s result against Peru, though they will have to be wary of losing their last two Copa America H2Hs held on Brazilian soil by a margin of 5+ goals.

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Belgium vs Portugal

Defending Euro champions Portugal will face a stern test in the round of 16 as they take on a rampant Belgium side at the Estadio de La Cartuja in a mouth-watering clash.

Belgium made light work of their Group B campaign, winning all three group stage matches by an aggregate score of 7-1. Particularly prolific after half-time, ‘De Rode Duivels’ have registered five of their seven goals at Euro 2020 so far in the second half of play. The world’s best-ranked nation has now advanced to the knock-out stages in each of their previous five major tournament appearances (World Cups and European Championships), overcoming the round of 16 in the last three in a row. But it hasn’t all been plain sailing for Belgium against top-ten ranked opponents across major tournaments, as they lament a negative record in such encounters (GP3 – W1, L2). Additionally, they have failed to beat Portugal in their last five meetings in all competitions (D2, L3) since a 3-0 victory in September 1989.

Meanwhile, Portugal’s 3-0 win over Hungary on Matchday 1 followed by a single point from the subsequent two group stage games (D1, L1) has been enough for Fernando Santos’ men to qualify for the knock-outs as one of the best third-placed teams. An impressive Euro 2016 title run has helped to improve Portugal’s record in the European Championships knock-out stages (W8, L6), with three of their four knock-out wins in 2016 coming via extra time or penalties. Despite enduring mixed fortunes in the group phase, the ‘Selecao’ have been the most exciting team at Euro 2020 so far. Each of their three matches in a ‘Group of Death’ produced over 2.5 goals, which is a unique achievement at this particular tournament. Even though they have conceded 2+ goals in their last two Euro outings, Portugal will be glad to know they remain one of only two sides to prevent Belgium from scoring in their previous 58 games.

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Wales vs Denmark

The Euro 2020 Round of 16 gets underway this weekend as Wales and Denmark lock horns in the opening knock-out stage fixture at the Johan Cruijff Arena.

Wales accrued a win, a draw, and a loss from their three group stage fixtures, which proved sufficient to finish runners-up to Italy in Group A and qualify for the European Championship knock-outs for the second tournament running. Looking to replicate their impressive Euro 2016 run that ended in the semi-finals, the ‘Dragons’ are desperate to exact revenge on Denmark after suffering a Nations League double in their last competitive meetings. A draw seems to be out of the picture, considering none of the previous ten meetings between these two sides have ended level (W4, L6). Wales will also have to defy their Amsterdam hoodoo that has seen them lose both of their previous matches in the Netherlands capital ‘to nil.’ But Rob Page can find some courage from his side’s return of just two losses from their last 16 competitive fixtures (W10, D4).

Denmark became the first nation to reach the European Championship knock-outs after losing both of their opening matches of the tournament, running riot against Russia on Matchday 3 (4-1). Notably, Kasper Hjumland’s men registered the highest average of 19.7 shots per game at Euro 2020 so far, though a conversion rate of 8.47% might be a reason for concern. Denmark have managed to qualify for the Euro knock-out stages three times before, advancing to at least quarter-finals on each occasion. Coping with the loss of their talisman Christian Eriksen, ‘Danish Dynamite’ are looking to extend their winning run against Wales in competitive fixtures to four, having scored precisely twice in each of their last three victories in such clashes. With that said, they have netted over 1.5 goals only twice in five internationals, friendlies included.

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Italy vs Austria

Italy and Austria go head-to-head at Wembley Stadium in an exciting Euro 2020 last-16 showdown.

It’s been a stunning Euro 2020 journey for Italy so far, as they finished top of Group A with all three wins and an intimidating +7 goal difference (GF:7, GA:0). Indeed, the Italians have qualified for the knock-outs as one of only two sides alongside England to keep a clean sheet in all three group stage fixtures. Ahead of the kick-off, Roberto Mancini’s men are unbeaten in their previous 30 international games (W25, D5), winning each of the last 11 in a row without conceding once. If they manage to keep Austria at bay, Italy will record their all-time longest run of 12 consecutive clean sheets. At the other side of the pitch, ‘Gli Azzurri’ attempted an average of 20 shots per game across their three group stage matches at Euro 2020, their highest ratio at the European Championships since 1980.

On the other hand, Austria defeated North Macedonia and Ukraine to cancel out a 3-0 thumping to the Netherlands and finish runners-up in Group C. As a result, the Austrians have qualified for the European Championship knock-out phase for the first time. The last time they advanced to the knock-outs at a major tournament was at the 1954 World Cup. However, a trip to London may stir some painful memories within the Austria camp, considering they have lost four of their previous six matches in the English capital (W1, D1). If they beat Italy, it will be the first time since November 2020 that ‘Das Team’ have recorded back-to-back wins in competitive fixtures. Easier said than done, as the Austrians have failed to outscore this opposition in any of their last 13 encounters (D3, L10 since a 2-1 friendly victory in December 1960.

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Viettel vs Ulsan Hyundai

Viettel and Ulsan Hyundai are set to exchange tackles at the Thammasat Stadium in their opening AFC Champions League fixture.

The hosts head into proceedings in the midst of a purple patch, having won all but one of their previous seven competitive matches (D1), keeping a clean sheet in four of them. Delivering action from the onset, Viettel have found the net before half-time in six of their last seven outings in all competitions. Since the turn of the calendar year, none of Viettel’s six home games have ended level (W3, L3), with four of those results (win/loss) seeing the winner on the day preserve a clean sheet. Despite coming into this encounter as massive underdogs, the ‘Red Tornado’ can draw confidence from scoring 2+ goals in three of their last four home matches, winning each of them (L1).

Meanwhile, Ulsan’s 2-2 home draw with Seongnam in K League 1 last time out ended a run of four consecutive victories, though the visitors take the field unbeaten in ten successive games (W5, D5). The ‘Tigers’ have been impressive in front of goal lately, netting over 1.5 goals all but two of their previous eight outings, including the last three in a row. Indeed, after drawing a blank in back-to-back road trips, they have now scored 2+ goals in three straight away matches, getting on the scoresheet beyond the 60th minute on each occasion. Worryingly, though, they have managed just one clean sheet in their last five road trips, conceding at least twice in three of the other four.

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United City vs Beijing Guoan

United City and Beijing Guoan will lock horns at the Milliy Stadium in their AFC Champions League Group I curtain-raiser.

United City won the Philippines Football League last season and will make their AFC Champions League debut after three failed qualifiers. The hosts have not played a single match in 2021, losing their most recent outing 2-1 to local rivals Kaya in the domestic championship back in November 2020. Before that defeat, United City had been on a five-game winning streak, returning a resounding +27 goal difference from that set of fixtures (GF:28, GA:1). City’s recent home matches have seen plenty of excitement, with 15 of their last 16 contests on home turf producing over 2.5 goals. Notably, the aforementioned reverse against Kaya marked United City’s first home defeat since May 2019, an unbeaten sequence that included 19 wins and four draws.

On the other hand, the visitors have experienced a notable upturn in form ahead of this trip, going from three consecutive defeats to back-to-back victories. While each of the abovementioned losses saw Beijing concede 2+ goals, both wins yielded the identical 2-0 scoreline. Away from home, none of Guoan’s last eight away matches have ended level (W4, L40), with five of them seeing over 2.5 goals and both teams on the scoresheet. Netting first will be of the utmost importance here, considering each of Beijing’s last 17 away games won/lost have seen the victor open the scoring. Early action is well on the cards, with both of their previous road trips witnessing the opener scored within five minutes of play.

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Kawasaki Frontale vs Daegu

Lokomotiv Stadium is the venue, as Kawasaki Frontale and Daegu go head-to-head in their AFC Champions League Group I opener.

The hosts have yet to taste defeat in 2021, remarkably winning 19 of their 25 matches in all competitions since the turn of the year (D5 – 90 minutes only). Additionally, since succumbing to a 2-0 reverse to Consadole Sapporo in November 2020, Kawasaki have gone unbeaten in their subsequent 20 home games in all competitions (W17, D3). Before being held to a 1-1 draw to Nagano in the Emperor’s Cup in their most recent home outing, Kawasaki had scored 2+ goals in five consecutive home matches, averaging 2.4 goals per game. Not so convincing in defense, Toru Oniki’s men have kept just one clean sheet in their last eight fixtures on home turf. Lapses of concentration in the later stages of play have seen them register seven of their last eight goals conceded at home beyond the 60th minute.

Meanwhile, since suffering an embarrassing 3-0 away loss to Gangwon in early April, the visitors have hit the ground running, racking up an impressive 11-game unbeaten run in all competitions (W9, D2). Daegu’s upturn in form reflects their remarkable defensive displays that saw them keep eight clean sheets during that 11-match sequence. A 1-1 draw against Suwon Bluewings in their most recent road trip ended a run of four consecutive victories, three of which had come by a narrow one-goal margin. But for Daegu, away goals have been in short supply, with Lee Byung-keun’s men netting under 1.5 goals in 11 of their last 14 games on foreign soil. They can at least find some comfort in scoring in five consecutive road trips ahead of this fixture.

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Tampines Rovers vs Gamba Osaka

Tampines Rovers’ AFC Champions League campaign gets underway at the Lokomotiv Stadium as they take on Gamba Osaka in their Group H opener.

A disappointing 3-2 home defeat to Hougang last time out brought Tampines’ five-match unbeaten run in all competitions to a halt (W3, D2), marking a third consecutive game without a clean sheet. Despite their defensive woes, the ‘Stags’ have been relentless in front of goal lately, notably scoring 2+ goals in each of their last six competitive home outings, an average of 3.66 per game. In fact, the hosts have found the net in 26 consecutive matches, last failing to get on the scoresheet in a 2-0 loss to DPMM in March 2020. Delivering action from the get-go, Gavin Lee’s men have opened the scoring within 15 minutes of play in three of their last four competitive games, adding at least one to the tally before half-time twice in the process.

Meanwhile, Gamba head into this meeting in the midst of a purple patch, having gone from a seven-match winless streak (D2, L5) to three victories in four games (D1). Gamba’s upturn in form comes as a consequence of their notable attacking improvement that has seen them score seven goals in their last four outings, as many as they had in their previous 16 in all competitions. With that said, Tsuneyasu Miyamoto’s players have failed to trouble the scoreboard in three of their last four competitive road trips, with their solitary goal in this period coming from the spot. By extension, they have drawn a blank in seven of their ten away matches since the turn of 2021, scoring precisely once in two of the other three.

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Ratchaburi vs Johor Darul Ta’zim

Ratchaburi and Johor Darul Ta’zim are set to square off at the Rajamangala National Stadium in the second round of the AFC Champions League Group G.

Ratchaburi’s Champions League journey was off to a disappointing start as they succumbed to a 2-0 home loss to Pohang Steelers on Matchday 1. As a result, six of their last seven matches in all competitions have seen one or both sides fail to get on the scoresheet, with five featuring under 2.5 total goals. Low scoring has been a common theme in Ratchaburi’s recent home fixtures as each of the last four contained under 2.5 goals, with three of them yielding a goalless second half. Additionally, the ‘Dragons’ have failed to impress in the final third lately, scoring one goal or less in each of their last five home outings across all competitions. Yet, if they find the net here, it is likely to be before half-time as each of their three goals scored in that five-game sequence came in the first half.

On the other hand, Johor’s dismal 1-0 home loss to Nagoya in their Group G curtain-raiser ended a run on three competitive games without defeat (W2, D1). Despite their slow start to the Champions League, the visitors can draw confidence from their impressive form in 2021 that has seen them lose just two of their 14 matches since the turn of the year (W9, D3). In essence, keeping a clean sheet could play a vital role in this encounter, considering ten of their 11 games won/lost this calendar year have seen the victor register a shutout. Notably, the ‘Southern Tigers’ take the field unbeaten in their last 12 away fixtures in all competitions (W9, D3), a sequence that saw them score 2+ goals on eight occasions.

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Nagoya Grampus vs Pohang Steelers

Rajamangala National Stadium is the venue, as Nagoya Grampus and Pohang Steelers go head-to-head in the AFC Champions League Group G.

Nagoya eked out a narrow 1-0 away victory over Johor DT in their Group G curtain-raiser, stretching their unbeaten run in all competitions to three games (W2, D1). Defensively robust, the hosts have recorded five clean sheets in their previous six competitive games, including the last three in a row. However, they failed to live up to expectations in the attacking aspects, drawing a blank three times during that six-match sequence while scoring precisely once in two of the remaining three games. At home, none of Nagoya’s last eight competitive fixtures have ended in a draw (W4, L4) since a goalless stalemate with Tokyo in early April. Seven of the eight games won/lost in that spread of matches saw the winner on the day register a shutout.

Meanwhile, Pohan enjoyed a perfect start to their Group G campaign, claiming a comfortable 2-0 home win over Thai outfit Ratchaburi. The visitors head into proceedings on the back of a three-match winning streak in all competitions, returning a +5 goal difference from that sequence (GF:6, GA:1). In fact, they have fallen to a single loss in their last 12 outings across all competitions (W7, D4), with 71.43 of their triumphs in that period yielding a winning margin of a single goal. Worryingly, though, Kim Gi-dong’s men have failed to keep a clean sheet in five consecutive competitive road trips ahead of this clash, conceding precisely once per game on four occasions. Particularly vulnerable after half-time, they registered five of the seven goals conceded in that five-match period in the second half of play.

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Jeonbuk Motors vs Chiangrai United

Jeonbuk Motors and Chiangrai United will lock horns at the Milliy Stadium in the opening game of their AFC Champions League campaign.

Jeonbuk dismantled fellow South Korean rivals Seongnam 5-1 on the road in the build-up to this fixture, halting a run of eight competitive matches without winning (D5, L3 – 90 minutes only). A five-goal festive against Seongnam was only the second time in ten games that Jeonbuk scored more than once. Before being held to a scoreless draw to Yangju in their most recent home outing, the ‘Warriors’ had found the net in 14 home matches on the trot, netting an average of 2.00 goals per game. Encouragingly, the hosts have kept a first-half clean sheet in three of their last four fixtures across all competitions, with two of their three goals conceded in that time coming beyond the 70th minute.

Meanwhile, the visitors have suffered just one defeat in their last 12 games in all competitions (W8, D3), courtesy of a 2-1 away loss to Suphanburi in the domestic championship in late March. Curiously, four of Chiangrai’s last five competitive fixtures have produced the identical 2-1 scoreline (W3, D1, L1), with the winner on the day coming from behind to seal the victory on two occasions. Moreover, there’s been plenty of excitement in Chiangrai’s recent away matches as three of the last four have seen over 2.5 goals and both teams on the scoresheet (W3, L1), with each such contest featuring 2+ second-half goals. The ‘Beetles’ will be desperate to improve defensively after failing to keep a blank sheet in 11 of their last 13 road trips.

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Chile vs Paraguay

Estádio Nacional de Brasília is the venue as Chile and Paraguay go head-to-head in an exciting Copa America 2021 showdown.

The Chileans have qualified for the knock-out stages with a game to spare after avoiding defeat in their opening three Group A outings (W1, D2). Yet, goal-shy Chile will be keen to improve in front of goal, having netted precisely once per match across their first three Copa America fixtures, with all three strikes arriving before the hour mark. Despite scoring precisely once in each of their last five competitive games, ‘La Roja’ have been regular on the scoresheet over the past couple of years, finding the net in 11 consecutive games. A lack of action has highlighted Group A so far – with an average of only 1.83 goals per match – which is very much in line with Chile’s propensity for producing low-scoring affairs. Each of their last five games featured under 2.5 total goals.

On the other hand, the Paraguayans seem likely to qualify for the knock-outs, though they’d like to at least finish third in the section to avoid taking on a formidable Brazil team in the quarter-finals. Easier said than done, with Paraguay falling behind by the 15th minute in each of their last three internationals, including a narrow 1-0 loss to Argentina on Matchday 2. Yet, ‘Los Guaraníes’ may seek inspiration in their impressive comeback win over Bolivia in their Copa America opener, which remains their solitary triumph in six matches (D3, L2). As ever, starting well will be a priority for Paraguay, especially considering they haven’t lost any of the nine fixtures in which they opened the scoring since June 2018 (W3, D6). They have come out victorious in both of their previous meetings with Chile, harboring a one-goal lead at half-time on each occasion.

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Bolivia vs Uruguay

It is ‘do or die’ for both Bolivia and Uruguay as the two sides battle it out for Copa America 2021 survival at the Arena Pantanal in Cuiabá.

After losing both of their opening Group A fixtures, the Bolivians are staring at the prospect of suffering a group stage exit from Copa America with another defeat here. Indeed, ‘La Verde’ have developed a habit of quitting the tournament early, having failed to advance to the knock-out phase seven times in their last eight appearances. Another similar scenario looks likely, with Bolivia heading into this match as the only team yet to pick up a single point and score from open play in this summer’s Copa America edition. The Bolivians now go up against a side they have outscored once in 12 Copa America H2Hs this century (D3, L8). Additionally, they have only won twice in the last 46 matches in non-home tournament editions (D18, L26).

Uruguay’s Copa America journey has started with a whimper rather than a bang, as they lost 1-0 to Argentina in their Group A curtain-raiser before barely pulling off a 1-1 draw with Chile on Matchday 2. Slow-starting Uruguayans have conceded the opener within 26 minutes of in both Copa America fixtures this summer. However, Luis Suarez’s strike against Chile ended a four-game goal drought for Uruguay, though they come into this encounter winless in five (D3, L2). Since the introduction of the South America tournament back in 1916, ‘La Celeste’ have never finished the competition without picking up at least one win – a good omen heading into the group stage finale. Oscar Tabarez’s men can also draw confidence from beating Bolivia via a two-goal margin in both of their previous competitive H2Hs.

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Slovakia vs Spain

Stakes are high for Spain as they take on Slovakia in their Euro 2020 Group E decider at Estadio de La Cartuja in Seville.

After eking out a hard-earned 2-1 win over Poland on Matchday 1, Slovakia succumbed to a narrow 1-0 defeat to Sweden last time out and will secure a second-place finish in Group E with a draw against Spain. Easier said than done, as the ‘Falcons’ have lost each of their previous three matches against ‘La Furia Roja’ on Spanish soil, scoring two goals while conceding 11 in the process. Encouragingly, though, they have avoided defeat in their final group stage fixtures in both previous appearances at major tournaments (W1, D1). Additionally, Stefan Tarkovic has lost just two of his 11 internationals in charge of Slovakia (W4, D5) and has yet to suffer back-to-back defeats. However, a lack of firepower in the front third has seen Slovakia attempt the joint-fewest two shots on target at Euro 2020 so far, drawing a blank twice in their last three outings.

On the other hand, the Spaniards have drawn both of their opening Group E fixtures despite having at least 70% ball possession on each occasion. They need to pick up all three points here to ensure a place in the round of 16 following a sluggish start to their Euro 2020 campaing. Spain could become only the second team in the European Championships history to draw all three group stage matches, with Portugal doing so in their triumphant 2016 campaign. Bringing their 2018 World Cup appearance into the equation, ‘La Furia Roja’ have played out four consecutive stalemates at major tournaments and could tie Italy’s all-time record of five straight draws. Luis Enrique can take some confidence from overseeing his players open the scoring before half-time in six of their last ten international outings

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Sweden vs Poland

Poland’s hopes of qualifying for the knock-outs stages of Euro 2020 are on the line as they lock horns with goal-shy Sweden in their final Group E fixture at the Saint-Petersburg Stadium.

Looking to complete their European Championships group stage campaign without a single loss for the first time since 2004, Sweden head into proceedings having already booked their place in the knock-outs. After holding Spain to a scoreless draw in their Group E opener, Sweden pulled off a narrow 1-0 win over Slovakia to secure at least a top-three finish. Indeed, the Swedes remain one of just three sides yet to concede at Euro 2020 so far and could see out the group stage with all three clean sheets at a major tournament for the first time since the 1974 World Cup. If they find the net here, the ‘Blågult’ are likely to do it in the second half of play, considering 88% of their goals scored at the European Championships arrived after half-time (23/26), including the one against Slovakia.

Meanwhile, Poland’s hopes of advancing to the round of 16 are hanging in the balance after they failed to win their opening two Euro 2020 fixtures (D1, L1). Both Poland’s games in Group E have seen them concede the opening goal by the 25th minute and pull one back inside the first ten minutes of the second half. The Poles can find a glimmer of hope knowing they have won their final group stage game in both of their previous major tournament appearances. However, seven consecutive defeats in their competitive H2Hs against Sweden douse any embers of optimism ahead of this encounter. If they fail to overcome the Swedes, it will be the first time since Euro 2012 that the Poles haven’t won any of their three group stage games at a major tournament.

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Portugal vs France

Portugal will return to the Puskas Arena for a mouth-watering clash against France in their final Euro 2020 group fixture.

Following a 3-0 thrashing of Hungary in their Euro 2020 opener at this venue, Portugal succumbed to a dismal 4-2 defeat to Germany on the following matchday in Munich. Worryingly, Fernando Santos’ men have lost two of their last three matches at the World Cups and European Championships combined, one more than they dealt with in their previous 17 such fixtures (W8, D8, L1). The ‘Selecao’ stare at the prospect of becoming the first reigning Euro champions to suffer group stage elimination since Greece in 2008 if they lose this encounter. Such a scenario is not beyond the realm of possibility, considering Portugal have managed just a single win in their last 13 clashes against France, with a 1-0 extra-time in the Euro 2016 final the solitary exception in that run. They can draw confidence from going unbeaten in their last five ‘Matchday 3’ matches at major tournaments (W2, D3).

On the other hand, France kicked off their Euro 2020 campaign with a narrow 1-0 win over Germany before playing out a dismal 1-1 draw with Hungary at the Puskas Arena. Having already qualified for the Euro 2020 knock-outs, France will be looking to defy their ‘Matchday 3’ hoodoo that has seen them fail to win any of their last six final group matches across major tournaments (D3, L3). Yet, ‘Les Bleus’ are confident of staying unbeaten here, having avoided defeat in each of their last 11 group fixtures at major tournaments (W7, D4). A tight, keenly-contested affair is very much on the cards, though, considering each of the previous six H2H meetings between France and Portugal has yielded a full-time margin of under 1.5 goals (W4, D2 – 90 minutes only).

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Ecuador vs Peru

Ecuador’s hopes of making it out of the Copa America 2021 group stage are up in the air as they tackle Peru at the Estádio Olímpico Pedro Ludovico.

Ecuador’s Copa America 2021 journey has started with a whimper rather than a bang as they head into this meeting winless in their opening two matches in the competition (D1, L1) and bottom of Group B. CONMEBOL’s second-lowest FIFA ranked nation lament a disappoint recent Copa record, having claimed just one victory in their last nine tournament fixtures (D4, L4). However, there was plenty of excitement across that nine-game sequence – six of those contests featured over 2.5 goals, including a 2-2 H2H stalemate in 2016. Interestingly, none of the last five international encounters between Ecuador and Peru have ended level (W2, L3), with three of them yielding the identical 2-1 scoreline. Gustavo Alfaro’s men will be keen to sharpen their instincts in front of goal after netting just twice from 27 attempts in the competition so far.

On the other hand, Peru secured a crucial 2-1 win over Colombia on Matchday 2, bouncing back from a horrendous 4-0 loss to Brazil in their Copa America 2021 opener. Both of Peru’s Copa matches this summer have seen the opening goal scored within 17 minutes and subsequently featured 2+ second-half goals. Despite coming into this clash as slight underdogs, the Peruvians have plenty of reason for optimism after suffering just three losses in their last 13 Copa America fixtures (W6, D4 – 90 minutes only). Additionally, Ricardo Gareca has lost just two of his six games against Ecuador since taking charge of Peru (W3, D1). On top of that, ‘La Blanquirroja’ have been fun to watch recently, with six of their last seven internationals containing over 2.5 total goals.

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Brazil vs Colombia

Estadio Olimpico Nilton Santos is the venue as Brazil and Colombia go head-to-head in the most highly anticipated fixture in the Copa America 2021 Group B.

Brazil have become the first South American team to qualify for the Copa America 2021 knock-outs after winning their opening two Group B fixtures by an aggregate scoreline of 7-0. Particularly lethal in the later stages of play, the Brazilians have registered five of their seven strikes at the tournament beyond the 60th minute. A 4-0 thumping of Peru last time out extended Brazil’s winning streak to nine internationals, a sequence that saw them prevail by a 2+ goal margin on eight occasions and keep a clean sheet eight times too. Beating Colombia could be a tricky task, though, as Tite’s men have played out back-to-back draws with this opposition after winning twice in a row beforehand. Moreover, the Brazilians have failed to beat their best-ranked opponents in three of their last four Copa America group games (W1, D1, L2), drawing a blank three times in the process.

Meanwhile, Colombia have blown hot and cold in Group B, experiencing mixed fortunes across their opening three Copa America 2021 fixtures so far (W1, D1, L1). Despite a sluggish start to the most prominent continental tournament in South America, the Colombians can leapfrog Brazil with a win here. Seeking a ninth knock-out stage qualification in their last ten Copa America appearances, ‘Los Cafeteros’ could still reach the quarter-finals even in the absence of a positive result here. Colombia’s hopes of beating the CONMEBOL juggernauts will hinge on their ability to keep Brazil at bay, as each of their last 11 international victories has been accompanied by a clean sheet. That’s easier said than done, with Colombia recording just six shutouts in 32 meetings with this opposition, with four such fixtures yielding a goalless draw.

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