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Beijing Guoan has won 1 match in its last 5 matches, and has suffered 2 defeats and 2 draws over the same period. Over this period of 5 matches, Beijing Guoan scored 9 goals and conceded 10. In their very last match, Beijing Guoan played against the club and the match ended with a score of 3 - 0. For their part, Macarthur FC obtained 3 wins in their last 5 meetings, for 1 draw of the points achieved and 0 defeats conceded.

In its last meeting, Macarthur FC faced the formation of for a final result of 0 - 0. Between Beijing Guoan who is currently 3rd in AFC Champions League Two with a total record of 1 win, 2 draws and 2 losses, and Macarthur FC ranked 1st in AFC Champions League Two and presenting a total record of 3 wins, 1 draw and 0 losses, we see the victory of Beijing Guoan.

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Gamba Osaka have won 5 of their last 5 matches, and have suffered 0 defeats and 0 draws over the same period. Over this period of 5 matches, Gamba Osaka scored 14 goals and conceded 2. In their very last match, Gamba Osaka played against the team and the match ended with a result of 4 - 1. For its part, Ratchaburi FC won 3 victories in its last 5 meetings, with draws achieved and 2 defeats conceded.

In their last match, Ratchaburi FC faced the team of for a final score of 1 - 0. Between Gamba Osaka who is currently 1st in AFC Champions League Two with a total record of 5 wins, 0 draws and 0 defeats, and Ratchaburi FC ranked 2nd in AFC Champions League Two and having a total record of 3 wins, draws and 2 defeats, we see the victory of Gamba Osaka.

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Kaya FC have won 0 matches in their last 5 meetings, and have suffered 5 defeats and 0 draws over the same period. Over this period of 5 matches, Kaya FC scored 4 goals and conceded 14. In their very last meeting, Kaya FC played against the team and the match ended with a result of 6 - 1. For their part, Pohang Steelers have gleaned 3 wins in their last 5 matches, for 1 draw and 1 defeat conceded.

In their last meeting, Pohang Steelers faced the team of for a final result of 0 - 1. Between Kaya FC who are currently 4th in AFC Champions League Two with a total record of 0 wins, 0 draws and 5 defeats, and Pohang Steelers ranked 2nd in AFC Champions League Two and having a total record of 3 wins, 1 draw and 1 loss, we see the victory of Pohang Steelers.

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Nam Dinh has won 2 matches in its last 5 matches, and has conceded 3 losses and draws over the same period. Over this period of 5 matches, Nam Dinh scored 5 goals and conceded 7. In his very last match, Nam Dinh played against the club and the match ended with a result of 0 - 2. Opposite, Eastern obtained 0 successes in its last 5 matches, for 0 draws achieved and 5 defeats conceded.

In its last meeting, Eastern faced the team of for a final result of 1 - 2. Between Nam Dinh who is currently 3rd in AFC Champions League Two with a total record of 2 wins, draws and 3 losses, and Eastern ranked 4th in AFC Champions League Two and presenting a total record of 0 wins, 0 draws and 5 losses, we see the victory of Nam Dinh.

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BG Pathum United have won 2 matches in their last 5 meetings, and suffered 3 defeats and 0 draws over the same period. Over this period of 5 matches, BG Pathum United scored 5 goals and conceded 6. In their very last meeting, BG Pathum United played against the team and the match ended with a score of 1 - 0. On the other hand, Tampines Rovers FC have acquired 4 victories in their last 5 matches, for 1 draw and 0 losses conceded.

In their last match, Tampines Rovers FC faced the team of for a final score of 5 - 3. Between BG Pathum United who are currently 3rd in AFC Champions League Two with a total record of 2 wins, 0 draws and 3 defeats, and Tampines Rovers FC ranked 1st in AFC Champions League Two and presenting a total record of 4 wins, 1 draws and 0 losses, we see the victory of BG Pathum United.

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Tai Po has won 0 matches in its last 5 matches, and has conceded 3 losses and 1 draw over the same period. Over this period of 5 matches, Tai Po scored 6 goals and conceded 12. During its very last meeting, Tai Po played against the team and the match ended with a score of 2 - 2. For its part, Cong An Ha Noi gleaned 2 victories in its last 5 matches, for 2 draws achieved and 1 defeat conceded.

In his last match, Cong An Ha Noi faced the club for a final result of 2 - 1. Between Tai Po who is currently 4th in AFC Champions League Two with a total record of 0 wins, 1 draw and 3 losses, and Cong An Ha Noi ranked 2nd in AFC Champions League Two and presenting a total record of 2 wins, 2 draws and 1 loss, we see the victory of Cong An Ha Noi.

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Aberdeen enter this Conference League clash with Strasbourg buoyed by a mixed but resilient run of results in domestic and European competition. In the past two months, the Scottish side has been in the headlines for both football and local news, including community developments and infrastructure projects around Aberdeen. On the pitch, they have shown flashes of determination, drawing 1-1 with Noah Yerevan in Europe and securing Premiership wins against Hearts and Livingston. Their 3-3 thriller against St. Mirren highlighted both attacking flair and defensive frailties, while a convincing 3-1 victory over Dundee demonstrated their ability to capitalize on momentum. These performances reflect a team that is competitive but still searching for consistency, a factor that could weigh heavily against a technically disciplined French opponent.

Strasbourg, meanwhile, have had a turbulent period in Ligue 1, with recent headlines ranging from local tram accidents to broader civic issues, but their footballing narrative remains compelling. In the last two months, they have battled through a demanding schedule, losing narrowly to Brest and Lens, but also securing important Conference League wins against Hacken Gothenburg and Crystal Palace. Their domestic form has been patchy, including a 2-0 defeat to Toulouse, yet they managed to beat Lille 2-0 at home, showing they can rise to the occasion against strong opposition. Strasbourg’s squad, bolstered by players like Ben Chilwell and Valentin Barco, has shown flashes of quality, though discipline has occasionally been an issue, as seen in their card-heavy encounter with Toulouse. This blend of inconsistency and resilience makes them unpredictable but dangerous.

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Breidablik enter this Conference League clash with Shamrock Rovers at a crucial juncture in their European campaign. The Icelandic side has endured a mixed run of form over the past two months, balancing domestic fixtures with continental challenges. Notably, Breidablik drew 2-2 against Samsunspor on November 27, a result that showcased both resilience and vulnerability. Earlier in November, they fell 2-0 to Shakhtar Donetsk, while October brought a goalless stalemate against KuPS and a heavy 3-0 defeat to Lausanne-Sport. These results underline the team’s struggle to convert opportunities into victories, though their spirited performances suggest they remain competitive. Off the pitch, the appointment of Olafur Ingi Skulason as manager late in the season has been a significant storyline, as he attempts to stabilize results and instill belief in a squad that has shown flashes of quality but lacks consistency.

Shamrock Rovers, meanwhile, arrive with their own narrative of highs and lows. The Irish champions celebrated domestic success by winning the FAI Cup final 2-0 against Cork City on November 9, a triumph that reaffirmed their dominance in Ireland. However, their European journey has been far more turbulent. In the Conference League, they suffered a 2-1 home defeat to Shakhtar Donetsk on November 27, preceded by a credible 1-1 draw away to AEK Athens earlier that month. October was less kind, with a 2-0 home loss to NK Celje and a heavy 4-1 defeat against Sparta Prague. Despite these setbacks, Shamrock Rovers remain a side with attacking flair, bolstered by Rory Gaffney’s standout performances, including his recognition as November’s Player of the Month. The recent return of Ireland international Enda Stevens has also added depth and experience to their squad, giving them renewed optimism heading into this fixture.

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Drita enter this Conference League clash with a mixture of ambition and realism. The Kosovan side has been making headlines in recent weeks, particularly after their spirited domestic performances in the Football Superleague of Kosovo. In November, they managed a hard-fought victory against Malisheva, showing resilience in front of their home supporters. However, their European journey has been more challenging, as they struggled against stronger continental opposition. The club has also been in the news for its efforts to strengthen its squad depth, with local reports highlighting their focus on maintaining competitive balance despite financial constraints. Their fans remain hopeful, but the gulf in quality between them and established European clubs is evident.

AZ Alkmaar, on the other hand, have been enjoying a strong run of form in the Eredivisie and Europe. In late November, they secured a convincing win over Excelsior, and earlier in December they battled to a draw against Feyenoord, showcasing their ability to compete with top Dutch sides. Their Conference League campaign has also been steady, with victories against teams like Zrinjski Mostar keeping them in contention for knockout stages. Recent news around the club has focused on their young talents, particularly Vangelis Pavlidis, who continues to be a prolific scorer and has attracted attention from bigger European clubs. The Alkmaar side’s consistency and attacking flair make them formidable opponents for any team in this competition.

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Fiorentina enter this Conference League clash with Dynamo Kyiv carrying a mixture of optimism and pressure, having shown flashes of quality in recent weeks. In November, the Viola secured a crucial Serie A victory against Torino, followed by a spirited draw against AC Milan that highlighted their resilience against top opposition. December brought a narrow win over Verona, where Nicolás González continued his fine scoring form, while Lucas Beltrán impressed with his link-up play. Off the pitch, Fiorentina have been buoyed by the return of Gaetano Castrovilli to full training after a long injury layoff, giving Vincenzo Italiano more midfield options. The team’s depth and tactical flexibility have been praised, though consistency remains a challenge as they balance domestic duties with European ambitions.

Dynamo Kyiv, meanwhile, arrive with determination after a turbulent autumn in the Ukrainian Premier League. In late October, they defeated Shakhtar Donetsk in a high-profile derby, a result that boosted morale and showcased their attacking prowess through Viktor Tsyhankov’s creativity and Artem Besedin’s work rate. November saw them edge past Dnipro-1 in a tense encounter, while December included a convincing win against Obolon that kept them in the title race. Off the pitch, Dynamo have been adjusting to squad changes, with young talents like Nazar Voloshyn stepping into bigger roles. The club’s supporters remain vocal in their backing, and manager Mircea Lucescu has emphasized the importance of discipline and defensive organization as they prepare for continental competition.

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Hacken approach their upcoming Conference League clash with AEK Larnaca in a period of mixed form, having shown both resilience and vulnerability in recent weeks. In domestic Swedish football, Hacken concluded their Allsvenskan campaign with a strong finish, including a convincing 4-2 victory over Elfsborg in late October, but they also suffered setbacks such as a 1-0 defeat to Djurgården. Over the past two months, Hacken have been balancing their European commitments with league fixtures, and their squad depth has been tested. News surrounding the team has highlighted the importance of their attacking trio, with players like Amor Layouni and Mikkel Rygaard stepping up in crucial moments. The club has also been dealing with speculation about potential transfers, which adds another layer of intrigue to their preparations.

AEK Larnaca, meanwhile, have been navigating the Cypriot First Division with determination, though their results have been somewhat inconsistent. In November, they secured a 2-0 win against Anorthosis, showcasing their ability to control matches with disciplined defending and sharp counterattacks. However, they also dropped points in a 1-1 draw against Omonia, which raised questions about their ability to break down compact defenses. Recent news has focused on their injury concerns, particularly in midfield, where the absence of key players has forced tactical adjustments. Despite these challenges, AEK Larnaca remain a competitive side in European fixtures, with their defensive organization and set-piece threat often proving decisive against stronger opponents.

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Hamrun Spartans enter this Conference League clash with a mixture of optimism and realism. Over the past two months, the Maltese champions have been in the spotlight after their spirited domestic performances, including a hard-fought 2-1 victory against Balzan in the Maltese Premier League and a narrow 1-0 win over Gzira United. However, their European journey has been more challenging, with a recent 4-1 defeat to Fenerbahce in the group stage highlighting the gulf in quality between Malta’s finest and established continental sides. The club has nevertheless shown resilience, with coach Luciano Zauri emphasizing the importance of learning from each European outing. Their supporters remain vocal, hoping that the Spartans can rise to the occasion against one of Eastern Europe’s most seasoned teams.

Shakhtar Donetsk, on the other hand, arrive with a pedigree that dwarfs Hamrun’s European experience. In the past two months, Shakhtar have been balancing domestic commitments in the Ukrainian Premier League with their Conference League campaign. They recently secured a 2-0 win over Polissya Zhytomyr and followed it up with a 3-1 triumph against Rukh Lviv, showcasing their attacking depth. In Europe, Shakhtar impressed with a 2-2 draw against Fiorentina, a result that underlined their ability to compete against strong opposition despite the ongoing challenges of playing home fixtures away from Donetsk due to the war situation. Their squad, featuring talents like Mykhailo Mudryk’s successors in the attacking line, continues to demonstrate pace and technical superiority, making them formidable opponents.

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The upcoming Europa Conference League clash between Jagiellonia Białystok and Rayo Vallecano is shaping up to be one of the more intriguing fixtures of December. Jagiellonia, who have been enjoying a steady rise in Polish football under Adrian Siemieniec, recently secured a narrow but important 1-0 victory over KuPS Kuopio on November 27, a result that kept their European hopes alive. Domestically, they have shown resilience, holding Zaglebie Lubin to a goalless draw on November 30 after a convincing 2-1 away win against Pogon Szczecin earlier in the month. Their form has been mixed but promising, with Jesús Imaz continuing to be a key figure in attack. The Polish side has also been buoyed by their ability to grind out results in tight matches, a trait that could prove vital against Spanish opposition.

Rayo Vallecano, meanwhile, enter this fixture with a blend of optimism and caution. In La Liga, they have been hovering around mid-table, drawing 1-1 with Valencia on December 1 after previously holding Real Madrid to a goalless stalemate on November 9. Their European campaign has been less straightforward, suffering a 2-1 defeat to Slovan Bratislava on November 27, which highlighted some defensive vulnerabilities. However, they did manage a spirited 3-2 win over Lech Poznań earlier in November, showcasing their attacking depth. Coach Iñigo Pérez has been working to stabilize performances, and the team’s ability to compete against stronger Spanish sides suggests they will not be overawed by the trip to Poland.

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KuPS, after a great victory against Slovan Bratislava 3-1, conceded its first defeat in the competition on the pitch of Jagiellonia during the previous day 1-0. It's not just a simple defeat for the Finnish team, it also put an end to a great unbeaten run of 12 matches in all competitions for a record of 8 victories. Note that in this C4, KuPS began its campaign by sharing two points with Drita 1-1 and Breidablik 0-0. Let us also remember that the local team won the local championship, thus obtaining its ticket to participate in the qualifiers for the next Champions League next summer. Opposite, Lausanne is going through a difficult period on a sporting level with only one victory in its last six matches including three defeats in four matches.

Last week, Lausanne was even eliminated from the Swiss Cup after extra time against Yverdon 2-1, while it remained on a defeat against Lech Poznan in C4 2-0 and against St. Gallen in the championship 1-0. Hearts high, the Swiss will have tried to re-mobilize last weekend against Lugano in the championship, result to follow. In C4, the adventure was perfectly launched with two successes against Breidablik 3-0 and Hamrun 0-1, and a draw against Omonia 1-1. 

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In the event of a draw or better last weekend in the league on the Cracovia pitch 2-2, Lech Poznan will have had a fifth match without defeat in all competitions. At the heart of this series, the Polish team beat Lausanne in the Conference League 2-0 but also Radomiak Radom in the championship 4-1 and Piast in the 1/8th final of the Polish Cup 0-2. The local team is in good shape, but let's remember that it lost away in C4 against Rayo Vallecano 3-1 and Lincoln 2-1. Furthermore, in the rankings, Poznan occupies the top 16 and a success this evening would practically guarantee its place for the 1/16th finals. Opposite, we find the Mainz team, literally at the bottom of the bucket in the Bundesliga with a last place and a 9th match without a win in the elite last weekend for the reception of Borussia Mönchengladbach 0-1.

It was also the fourth defeat in the five previous matches played in all competitions, including one, in the Conference League, against the Romanians of Universitatea Craiova 1-0. There are also two other away defeats on the pitches of Frankfurt 1-0 and Friborg 4-0. In C4, the situation is very different for the Germans, victorious in three of their first four scores against Fiorentina 2-1, Zrinjski 1-0 and Omonia 0-1 and who occupy the top 5 of the league phase. 

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Lincoln works very well on a national scale, on the other hand, under European skies, the results are bad with only one victory after four days, against Lech Poznan at home 2-1. Otherwise, it's two defeats against Hamrun Spartans 3-1 and against Zrinjski 5-0 and a draw against Rijeka 1-1. 26th in the early morning, at present, Lincoln is eliminated from the Conference League. Since their setback against Hamrun, the local players have piled up three wins in a row in the league against Glacis United twice 0-3 and 6-1 and against Hound Dogs last weekend 4-0.  Opposite, with 7 points collected, Sigma Olomouc is placed in 14th place in this league phase, just 1 point behind the top 8.

Recently, the Czech club beat the Slovenian club Celje 2-1, thus consolidating its victory against FC Noah 1-2. The first two scores ended in a defeat against Fiorentina 2-0 and a draw against Rakow 1-1. Last weekend, in the league, Olomouc recorded a second successive defeat against Sparta Prague 0-1 and Liberec 1-0. 

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23rd and therefore currently qualified for the round of 16 of the Conference League, FC Noah clearly has no right to lose and revive its opponent in the race for the top 24. With 2 days to go, it is clear that the local team must work hard to win this match at home. Small downside, at home, Noah has not won for four matches, even suffering two defeats against Sigma Olomouc in C4 1-2 and Aarat-Armenia in the championship 1-2. The month of November was not productive for the Armenians who did not win the least of their four matches played 3d, 1d including sharing points in C4 with Aberdeen 1-1. The month of December started badly with a goalless draw on Van's lawn in the championship 0-0. It remains to be seen now whether FC Noah will have been able to regain confidence last weekend at home against BKMA, result to come.

Legia Warsaw, 28th, badly needs to win this match in order to make its return to the top 24. Only 1 victory for a record of 3 defeats, Legia is suffering in this C4. The defeats took place at home against Samsunspor 0-1 and against Sparta Prague 0-1, and away to Celje turf 2-1. The only victory came against Shakhtar on the road 1-2. Before their championship meeting on the Piast lawn last weekend, the Poles had won only two of their last ten matches in all competitions for a record of 4 defeats. 

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Victorious in his last 3 matches in all competitions, Rakow aimed to make it four on Sunday, in the Championship against Katowice, in order to get closer to the podium. The Polish club had just defeated SK Rapid 4-1 in the Conference League, a table in which it remains undefeated with 2 wins, 2 draws and is in 6th position. In the process, the Metallurgists played in the national exercise against Arka 1-4 and reached the quarter-finals of the Polish Cup at the start of the month at the expense of Slask 1-2. 19th in the league phase with two points ahead of 25th, Zrinjski Mostar is master of its destiny two days before the epilogue of the league phase.

The Bosnian team, however, was scuttled halfway through against Mainz and Dynamo kyiv, defeats 1-0 and 6-0, before returning to victory two weeks ago against Häcken 2-1. At the same time, he maintains flawless consistency in the Championship. The runner-up of Borac Banja Luka remained on a success in the exercise in Prijedor 0-2 before facing his rival, Velez Mostar on Sunday. 

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Undefeated over the last three days played against Sparta Prague 1-0, Lincoln 1-1 and AEK Larnaca 0-0, Rijeka closes the top 24 in which it will be necessary to be in the evening of the 6th day to compete in the play-offs. At the same time, the Croatian team finds itself stuck in the second half of the table in the Championship. Hooked by Lokomotiv Zagreb 1-1, it followed on Saturday by the reception of the red lantern, Vukovar 1991. Celje continues to make a good impression in the Conference League.

The quarter-finalist of the previous edition remains 3rd in the league phase despite his defeat at Sigma Olomouc 2-1 two weeks ago, helped by his successes over AEK 3-1, Shamrock Rovers 0-2 and Legia Warsaw 2-1 in his first three outings. The Slovenian champion did not resume his march forward in the Championship against Koper 1-1 and could recover on Sunday against Primorje, in order to remain alone at the top of the ranking. 

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Not necessarily expected among the best teams in this Conference League, Samsunpor nevertheless prances at the top of the ranking with 10 points on the clock, which allows them to foresee immediate qualification for the 1/8th finals. Impeccable during the last 3 days, the Turks were able to go on against Legia Warsaw 0-1, Dynamo kyiv 3-0 and Hamrun 3-0 without conceding a single goal. But on the last day, they had to concede a draw against Breidablik 2-2. In the league, Thomas Reis' men are in 5th place in the standings before heading to Galatasaray next weekend. Opposite, AEK Athens is also in the race to do well and even why not land an immediate ticket for the 1/8 finals of this Conference League.

The Greek club is in 10th place in the rankings with only a small point behind the top 8. After starting with a defeat against Celje 3-1, Marko Nikolic's men then scored 2 victories in 3 matches against Aberdeen 6-0, Shamrock Rovers 0-1 and against Fiorentina on the last day 0-1. At the same time, AEK is on the 3rd step of the podium in its own championship. the Athenians were aiming for a 5th consecutive victory against Atromitos on Sunday. 

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The chances of Shelbourne going beyond the league stage of this Conference League are now very small. Considered one of the Little Thumbs of this competition, this Irish team was only able to grab one small point during the first 4 days. It was against Häcken, when he entered the match 0-0. Since then, the Shels have been beaten by Shkëndija 1-0, by Drita 0-1 and by AZ Alkmaar 2-0. At the same time, in the league, the Dublin-based club finished in 3rd position in the Premier Division at the start of November. For their part, Crystal Palace is not quite meeting the expectations placed on them at the start of the league phase.

Expected to play the leading roles in this mini-championship, this English team is currently only in 18th position in the ranking with 6 points on the clock. Winners of Dynamo kyiv 0-2, the Londoners were then surprised at home by AEK Larnaca 0-1 before getting off to a good start against AZ Alkmaar 3-1. Finally, on the last day, the Eagles ended up losing to Strasbourg 2-1. On the other hand, in the Premier League, Crystal Palace continues to do well. 4th in the standings, Oliver Glasner's men remain on 2 successes obtained against Burnley 0-1 and against Fulham 1-2. 

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As could be expected, this Shkendija team is not really celebrating in this Conference League where it has only taken 4 points in as many days. That said, everything is still possible for this team which is only a short distance behind in 24th place. Beaten from the start by Rayo Vallecano 2-0, the Macedonians then took the measure of the Irish Shelbourne 1-0 before taking a point against Jagiellonia Bialystok 1-1. But on the last day, they could not avoid defeat against Drita 1-0. In his championship, Shkendija is 6 lengths behind leader Vardar before his scheduled match against Bashkimi next weekend.

We expected better from Slovan Bratislava in this competition. The Slovakian champion was indeed beaten 3 times during his first 3 matches played against Strasbourg 1-2, Alkmaar 1-0 and KuPS 3-1. That said, Vladimir Weiss's men put in a great performance on the last day by winning against Rayo Vallecano 2-1 to regain hope in the race for qualification and come back to 2 lengths from 24th place. At the same time, Slovan Bratislava is at the top of its championship with the aim of challenging bottom-placed Kosice next weekend. 

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Universitatea Craiova has reason to hope to move beyond this league phase in this competition. Beaten at the start of Poland by Rakow 2-0, the Romanians then experienced another poor performance by conceding a draw against FC Noah 1-1. But then, this team put together two very important victories won against Rapid Vienna 0-1 and especially against Mainz 1-0 during the last two days. These successes allowed the Olteniens to move to 15th place in the ranking and return to just one point from the top 8. At the same time, Universitatea Craiova is in 4th position in its championship before hosting FCR Cluj next weekend.

On the other side of the meadow, Sparta Prague has the same number of points as its opponent of the day, which therefore places it a short distance from a virtual direct qualification for the 1/8th finals. Easy to defeat Shamrock Rovers 4-1, the Czechs were then beaten by Rijeka 1-0 before being held to a draw by Rakow 0-0. 15 days ago, the people of Prague restarted the machine by winning at Legia Warsaw 0-1. At the same time, in the championship, Sparta is relegated 5 lengths behind its neighbor and rival Slavia Prague before traveling to the Sigma Olomouc field next weekend. 

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Beaten at the start of this Europa League by Friborg 2-1, FC Basel was then able to recover against Stuttgart 2-0 before falling more logically against Lyon 2-0. Subsequently, the Swiss resumed their march forward against FCSB 3-1 but they were again defeated by Genk 2-1 on the last day. Following this very irregular course, Ludovic Magnin's men are in 24th position but their place in the jump-off is hanging by a thread. At the same time, in the championship, this team is in 4th place in the ranking before their planned trip to Winterthur next weekend. For its part, Aston Villa, as residents of the Premier League and quarter-finalist of the last Champions League, is one of the contenders for final victory in this competition.

The English are also quite there in this phase of the league since they occupy the 3rd step of the podium before this 6th day. Solid, the Villans won 4 times against Bologna 1-0, Feyenoord 0-2, Maccabi Tel Aviv 2-0 and Young Boys 2-1 and they were beaten only once, by Go Ahead Eagles at the end of October 2-1. In the Premier League, Unaï Emery's players are in 4th place in the standings before successively challenging Brighton and Arsenal over the coming days.

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Undefeated since their inaugural defeat at Lille 2-1, Brann followed up with successes against Utrecht 1-0 and Rangers 3-0 before sharing the points with Bologna 0-0 and PAOK 1-1. The Norwegian club is 19th in the standings with 3 games remaining in the league phase, 2 points ahead of the first virtually eliminated club and 2 behind the top 8 qualifying for the round of 16. Since the last day, he finished his Championship in 4th position after a final success against HamKam 3-1. That was two weeks ago and Brann now only has the Europa League to play for. The results grid for Fenerbahçe 20th in this league phase is identical to that of its opponent on the day: 1 defeats, 2 draws, 2 victories.

Their defeat conceded in September against Dinamo Zagreb 3-1 is also their last in all competitions. Fener, who beat Nice 2-1 and Stuttgart 1-0 in the process, did not make the difference in Plzen 0-0 and came back to the score in the last match, against Ferencvaros 1-1. At the same time runner-up to their Istanbul rival Galatasaray in the Süper Lig, Fener held off them at the start of the month 1-1 and could resume their march forward on Saturday at Basaksehir. 

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Dominated by Stuttgart when it entered the Europa League 2-1, Celta Vigo quickly corrected the situation by dominating PAOK Salonika 3-1, OGC Nice 2-1 and finally Dinamo Zagreb 0-3 to establish themselves among the contenders for the final top 8. Unfortunately for them, the Spaniards had a bad operation on the last day by losing at Ludogorets 3-2, thus falling to 10th place in the ranking. In La Liga, the Celticos are struggling in the second half of the table with only a few units ahead of the red zone. Dominated by Espanyol 0-1, the Galicians will travel to Real Madrid next weekend. Opposite, Bologna is currently blowing hot and cold in this competition where this team has so far only lost once, against Aston Villa 1-0 on the first day.

Since then, the Italians have been held to a draw by Friborg 1-1 and by Brann 0-0 and they have achieved very important successes against FCSB 1-2 and against Salzburg 4-1 15 days ago. With 8 points, the Transalpines are in 8th place in the ranking, 2 units from the top 8. In Serie A, the Rossoblu are in ambush to try to climb onto the podium. Defeated by Cremonese 1-3, they will want to get back on track against Lazio next weekend. 

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Celtic approached this shock with 5 victories in all competitions before challenging the leader of the Scottish Championship, Hearts, whom they could overtake on Sunday if successful. The Hoops beat Hibernian 1-2 and Dundee 1-0 up front, while defeating Feyenoord 1-3 in the Netherlands two weeks ago on the final day of the Europa League. This success, its second of the season in C3, placed the Scottish giant back in 21st position with a one point margin over the first club virtually eliminated, that is to say the 25th in the ranking. Stronger than Rangers 0-2 and Midtjylland 2-1 on its last outings in C3, AS Rome is 15th in the league phase one point from 8th place, the first offering direct access to the round of 16.

La Louve has re-mobilized after a slump in October and is playing the leading roles in Serie A in 4th place. Although beaten by Napoli 0-1 at the end of November, it is one point behind the leader and could recover on Saturday at the poorly ranked Cagliari. 

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Undefeated during its first 3 matches in the competition, Dinamo Zagreb was on track to qualify fairly quietly for the rest of this Europa League. The Croatians were able to win from the start against Fenerbahce 3-1 and against Maccabi Tel Aviv 1-3 before securing a good draw on the Malmö field. However, the rest was more difficult for this team which was no match against Celta Vigo 0-3 and especially against Lille 4-0 during the last two days, thus falling to 23rd in the ranking of this phase of the league. In the league, Dinamo will play a very important match on Sunday against its runner-up in the standings, Hajduk Split, in the fight for the title. For its part, Bétis is on a very good path to going beyond this regular Europa League season.

Better yet, the Spaniards, who are currently 5th, undoubtedly hope to keep their place in the top 8 in order to qualify directly for the 1/8 finals. Undefeated after the first 5 days, Manuel Pellegrini's men were held to a draw by Nottingham Forest 2-2 and by Genk 0-0 in 2 of the first 3 days but they otherwise got the better of Ludogorets 0-2, Lyon 2-0 and finally Utrecht 2-0. On the national scene, the Andalusians are lost in the fight for the top 4 since they are 7 lengths behind Atlético MAdrid who are 4th with a match in advance. Winner of the Seville derby 0-2, Bétis will host Barça next weekend. 

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Far from being expected to play the leading roles, the FCSB remains with defeats against Young Boys of Berne 0-2, Bologna 1-2, Basel 3-1 and Red Star Belgrade 1-0. The Romanian club ranks 31st, 3 lengths from the top 24 and finds itself in a very bad position in the race for qualification. However, he is showing a clear recovery in form in the Championship but is still paying for his poor start to the season. Stuck in the bottom half of the ranking, FCSB was able to line up last Saturday against Dinamo Bucharest for a sixth match without defeat in the national exercise. For its part, Feyenoord 30th marks one of the disappointments of the season in the Europa League.

The eighth finalist of the last Champions League also has 4 defeats in the first 5 days, for a victory, won in October against Panathinaikos 3-1. Since then, Robin van Persie's players fell to Stuttgart 1-0 and were surprised on their lawn by Celtic 1-3. They are well placed in the Championship at the same time thanks to a quality start to the season. Runner-up to PSV Eindhoven, Feyenoord won at Telstar 1-2 and could confirm Saturday at home against Zwolle. 

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FC Porto are virtually eighth finalists with 3 games remaining in the league phase. 8th tied on points with their closest pursuer who will see the equivalent play-offs of the 16th finals, the Dragons accumulated a third victory in the event two weeks ago against Nice 3-0, for a draw and a defeat. Their surprising elimination in the Portuguese League Cup last week against Guimarães 1-3 remains their only misstep in all competitions since the beginning of November. They aspired to recover on Sunday against Tondela to maintain their status as leader of the Championship. Malmö is definitely going through a complicated season.

Unable to retain their title of Swedish champions, as evidenced by their 6th final place in the Championship, the Sky Blue should not escape the league phase of the Europa League. They remain winless and came from a 1-1 draw in October against Dinamo Zagreb to claim their first point. Since then, Malmö has fallen again against Panathinaikos 0-1 and on the lawn of Nottingham Forest 3-0. His championship having ended last month, he has not played since this fourth and final European setback. 

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Everything is going well for the moment for Ferencvaros in this Europa League. The Budapest-based club is in fact still undefeated in the competition after 5 days with draws against Viktoria Plzen 1-1 and against Fenerbahce 1-1 15 days ago and successes against Genk 0-1, Salzburg 2-3 and Ludogorets 3-1. Consequently, the Hungarians occupy 6th place in the ranking, a short distance from the leader Lyon. At the same time, in the championship, Ferencvaros still hopes to win the title. He faces Kisvarda next weekend. For their part, the Rangers are no match for the moment in this Europa League where they have only taken one point so far after the first 5 matches.

It was against Braga 1-1, on the last day. Otherwise, the Scots had been dominated by Genk 0-1, Sturm Graz 2-1, Brann 3-0 and finally by Roma 0-2, thus showing their limits on a European scale. The Glasgow players are also in difficulty in their own championship since they are only 4th, 9 points behind leader Hearts. Before this European poster, they traveled to Dundee United and Kilmarnock. 

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Back in the European Cup, Friborg performed well enough to qualify for the round of 16. The Black Forest club ranks 4th in the league phase in which it remains undefeated 3 wins, 2 draws and has just been held back in Plzen 0-0. The Brazilians from Breisgau have since dominated Darmstadt 2-0 in the German Cup, while getting the better of Mainz 4-0 in the Bundesliga. They could confirm on Saturday against another poorly ranked, Heidenheim. Stuck in worrying poor form, RB Salzburg aimed to end a month-long drought without winning on Saturday against the bottom of the Austrian Championship, BW Linz.

Thomas Letsch's team, which remained in a draw in the exercise at Altach 1-1, nevertheless remains comfortable leader. It is having more difficulty in its Europa League campaign, stuck in 29th position in the league phase with a record of one victory and 4 defeats. Winners of Go Ahead Eagles 2-0 at the beginning of November after 3 inaugural defeats, the Austrians fell back heavily in Bologna 4-1 and are relegated to 3 points from the top 24 qualifying for the play-offs. 

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Ludogorets got off to a good start in this Europa League by winning at Malmö 1-2 before going on to lose 3 times in a row against Bétis 0-2, Young Boys 3-2 and finally Ferencvaros 3-1. Opposed to Celta Vigo on the last day, the Bulgarians won after a rather spectacular match 3-2 to return to contact with the top 24 even if they are only 25th due to their goal difference. In its championship, the Razgrad-based club Ludogorets remained on 2 consecutive victories before its matches scheduled against Dobruzha and Slavia Sofia in the coming days. On the other side of the median, PAOK Salonika is currently one of the teams virtually qualified for the play-offs since it occupies 17th place in the ranking with 8 points on the clock.

Quickly in difficulty in this competition after their opening draw against Maccabi Tel Aviv 0-0 and a defeat against Celta Vigo 3-1, the Greeks bounced back well by dominating Lille 3-4 and Young Boys 4-0 before sharing the points with Brann 1-1 on the last day. On their domestic stage, the players from the city of Thessaloniki are battling Olympiakos in the fight for the title. They will host Aris Salonika in the derby next weekend. 

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Despite a squad that is much less attractive on paper than in recent years, Olympique Lyonnais honors its status as a former powerhouse of French football in Europe. Les Gones are in fact at the top of this league phase with 12 points gleaned during the first 5 days and they are particularly well on their way to qualifying directly for the 1/8 finals of this competition. Winners of Utrecht 0-1, Salzburg 2-0 and FC Basel 2-1, the Rhone residents were then logically dominated by Bétis 2-0. But far from letting go, they bounced back perfectly by crushing Maccabi Tel Aviv 0-6 on the last day. At the same time, in the championship, Paulo Fonseca's men restarted the machine by winning against FC Nantes 3-0. They will try to achieve a second victory in a row next week against Lorient in order to get closer to the top 4 in the Ligue 1 standings. On the other side of the median, Go Ahead Eagles clearly do not display the same success as their opponent of the day.

The Batavians are in fact at the bottom of the table in this league phase, in 27th place in the standings but with the same number of points as 24th, FC Basel. Despite a record of 4 goals scored and 9 conceded, the Dutch still won 2 victories against Panathinaikos 1-2 and especially against Aston Villa 2-1. But they were otherwise dominated by FCSB 0-1, RB Salzburg 2-0 and especially by Stuttgart 0-4 15 days ago. At the same time, in the league, the Deventer-based club finds itself in the soft underbelly of Eredevisie. Hanging by Utrecht 2-2, they will challenge AZ Alkmaar next weekend. 

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Author of a very good run in this phase of the league, Midtjylland can legitimately harbor the ambition of qualifying for the 1/8 finals without having to play a play-off round. The Danish club is in 2nd place in the rankings just behind OL. Winner of its first 4 matches in the tournament against Sturm Graz 2-0, Nottingham Forest 2-3, Maccabi Tel Aviv 0-3 and finally against Celtic 3-1, this team was only beaten by Roma on the last day 2-1. At the same time, in the championship, the Wolves are on course to play for the title. They are in 2nd place in the Danish Superliga standings, 2 lengths behind the leader, AGF, before facing Viborg next weekend.

Opposite, Genk presents itself with long teeth for this meeting. Indeed, KRC occupies 9th place in the ranking, tied on points with 8th and a goal difference lower than one goal compared to the last one virtually qualified for the 1/8th finals. After beating the Rangers for their entry into the competition 0-1, the Belgians suffered 2 poor performances against Ferencvaros 0-1 and Bétis 0-0 but they resumed their march forward against Braga 3-4 and FC Basel 2-1. In the Pro League, the Smurfs defend their place in the top 6 and they travel to the Royal Antwerp field next weekend after being able to defeat Louvière 2-1 10 days ago. 

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Already very bad last year in this competition where it only took 35th place in the ranking out of 36, OGC Nice is doing even worse this year. Le Gym is in fact the red lantern of this regular season of the Europa League where it has still not taken a single point after the first 5 days. Franck Haise's men were dominated by Roma 1-2, Fenerbahce 2-1, Celta Vigo 2-1, Friborg 1-3 and finally by FC Porto 3-1 on the last day after conceding a first goal after only 20 seconds of play. Too average, the Aiglons are therefore already practically eliminated even before the last 3 matches of this league phase. This European course weighs down that in the championship since the Azuréens also have a series of defeats on the national scene. Defeated by PSG 1-0, Metz 2-1, OM 1-5 and Lorient 3-1, the Niçois will have the opportunity to revive against Angers next weekend.

For its part, Braga is much more up to the challenge so far in this Europa League. The Portuguese have indeed made their way into the top 8 of this competition but they only have very little margin to validate their direct qualification for the 1/8 finals. Everything started quite well for Sporting who launched their European epic with 3 successes against Feyenoord 1-0, Celtic 0-2 and Red Star 2-0 but they were then dominated by Genk 3-4 and held on by Rangers 1-1. At the same time, in the league, Braga is only in 6th position in the standings despite its latest successes against Moreirense 2-1 and Arouca 0-4. Last weekend, Joao Moutinho's partners faced Famalicao.

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Winner in Malmö 0-1 and against Sturm Graz 2-1, Rafael Benitez's 14th-placed Panathinaikos shifted into high gear after having scored one win and two defeats at the start of the campaign. He now finds himself one point from the top 8 qualifying for the round of 16. The Greek team also blows hot and cold in the Championship. Beaten at the end of November by AEK 2-3, it takes its place at the gates of the top 5 before traveling on Sunday to a poorly ranked team, AEL Larissa. You can also have 9 points after 5 matches and make a better impression than Panathinaikos.

The Viktoria Plzen 13th is the perfect example. Still undefeated 2 wins, 3 draws, the eighth finalist leaving the competition remains on points sharing with Fenerbahçe 0-0 and Friborg 0-0 after having scored a big blow in October on the pitch of AS Rome 1-2. He especially puts himself at the forefront with his 2 small goals conceded, making him the co-best defense of the league phase. The Czech club prepared for this match on the 6th day with a victory against Mlada Boleslav 2-1 and a trip to Slovacko in the Championship. 

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Sturm Graz's chances of qualifying for the rest of the competition are quite small. Because with 4 points gleaned during the first 5 days, the Austrian club is only in 28th position in this phase of the league with a delay of 2 points on the top 24 and a fairly complicated schedule for the next matches. Beaten from the start by Midtjylland 2-0, Jürgen Saumel's men then reacted well by winning against Rangers 2-1. But they then lost 2 of their next 3 matches against Celtic 2-1, Nottingham Forest 0-0 and Panathinaikos 2-1, thus finding themselves bottom of the table. In the Austrian Bundesliga, the Blackies are following in the wake of RB Salzburg in the fight for 1st place. They will host Tirol and GAK 1902 before this meeting.

 Opposite, Red Star Belgrade alternates between good and bad in this Europa League where it occupies 22nd place in the ranking after the first 5 days. Hooked by Celtic 1-1 on the first day, the Serbs were then beaten by Porto 2-1 and by Braga 2-0 before restarting the machine against Lille 1-0 and against FCSB 1-0 to place themselves among the top 24 in the ranking. At the same time, in the championship, the partners of former Marseillais Nemanja Radonjic are fighting with their neighbor and rival Partizan for 1st place in the ranking. They will still face Cukaricki and Vojvodina before this European deadline.

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With its 9 points capitalized during the first 5 days, Stuttgart is in an excellent position to hope to go beyond the league phase of this Europa League. The German club is in 12th place in the rankings and is only one point behind the top 8, directly synonymous with qualification for the 1/8 finals. Dominated away by FC Basel 2-0 and Fenerbahce 1-0, the Swabians were otherwise able to get rid of Celta Vigo 2-1, Feyenoord 2-0 and Go Ahead Eagles 0-4 on the last day. Otherwise, VfB is fighting for a place in the top 4 in the Bundesliga but it will face Bayern Munich next weekend, a week after its 2-1 defeat by Hamburg. In the meantime, Stuttgart will travel to Bochum in the German Cup.

On the other side of the median, Maccabi Tel Aviv is far from meeting the demands of this European competition. Much too weak to have ambitions in this Europa League, Maccabi is only in 35th position in this league phase with only one small point on the clock and only OGC Nice is doing worse for the moment. This single point was gleaned following its draw against PAOK Salonika 0-0 on the first day but then, this Israeli team suffered setbacks against Dinamo Zagreb 1-3, Midtjylland 0-3, Aston Ville 2-0 and finally against OL 0-6. Otherwise, in its own championship, this team is in 2nd place in the standings behind Hapoel Beer Shiva who they will face next weekend, a few days after hosting Hapoel Haifa. 

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With only one point scraped during the first 5 days, Utrecht shows its limits at the high European level this season. The Batavians have in fact lost 4 times since the start of the competition against Lyon 0-1, Brann 1-0, Friborg 2-0 and finally against Bétis 2-1 15 days ago. It was therefore only against FC Porto 1-1 that the Dutch were able to avoid defeat and they only find themselves in 32nd place in the ranking, 5 lengths from 24th place. Furthermore, in the championship, Utrecht players have been undefeated since the end of October. Hanging on to Go Ahead Eagles 2-2, they will host Twente next weekend to try to get closer to the top 4. In difficulty at the start of the season, Nottingham Forest have recovered well even if the road will still be long to validate their stay in the Premier League.

The English will have to play 2 very important matches against Wolverhampton and Everton to try to increase their lead in the red zone. In the Europa League, the Reds are in the soft underbelly of the standings with a record of 8 points taken. Hooked by Bétis 2-2, they were then beaten by Midtjylland 2-3 before achieving their first success against Porto 2-0. Forest then shared the points again with Sturm Graz 0-0 and had a big advantage against Malmö 3-0 to come within 2 points of the top 8.

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Although they have been regularly present in the European Cup for many years, Young Boys are struggling to stand out for the moment in this Europa League. With 6 points on the clock, the Swiss are only in 26th place in the standings but they have the same number of points as the 24th, FC Basel. Largely beaten from the start by Panathinaikos 1-4, the Bern players were then able to recover by dominating FCSB 0-2 and Ludogorets 3-2. However, the rest was more difficult for this team which lost its last 2 matches against PAOK 4-0 and finally against Aston Villa 2-1. In the championship, the Young Boys are installed on the 3rd step of the podium after their draw conceded against Servette 4-4. They will then continue against FC Sion.

On the Losc side, the objective of these last days should be to be able to settle among the first 8 in order to qualify directly for the 1/8th finals. Currently in 11th position, this Lille team is only a small point behind 8th place before these last 3 days. The Mastiffs started with 2 successes against Brann 2-1 and Roma 0-1 before losing against PAOK 3-4 and Red Star Belgrade 1-0. On the last day, the French made short work of Dinamo Zagreb 4-0. At the same time, the Northerners are in 4th place in the Ligue 1 standings before their planned clash against OM next weekend where they will try to get a 3rd victory in a row.

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The upcoming clash between SKU Amstetten and Admira Wacker in Austria’s 2. Liga has drawn considerable attention, not only because of their positions near the top half of the table but also due to their recent form. Amstetten have been steady, showing resilience in matches where they were tested, including their late November fixture against Austria Lustenau. That game highlighted their defensive organization, even though they struggled to convert chances. Admira, meanwhile, have been unbeaten in their last ten league outings, a streak that has kept them firmly in contention for promotion. The match scheduled for December 12, 2025, at the Ertl Glas-Stadion, is being billed as one of the standout fixtures of the round, with both sides eager to prove their credentials.

Amstetten’s recent fixtures have shown a team capable of grinding out results. In late November, they faced Austria Lustenau, a side with strong attacking pedigree, and managed to hold their ground despite pressure. Earlier in the month, Amstetten also picked up points in matches where their midfield dictated tempo, proving they can adapt against different styles of play. Their coach Patrick Enengl has emphasized balance, and the squad’s ability to avoid defeats has been crucial, with only one loss in their last twelve league games. The home crowd at Ertl Glas-Stadion has been a factor too, often pushing the team to late rallies, which could play a role in this upcoming encounter against Admira.

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Having just won against a Nice team in 0-1 crisis, Angers is having a good time at the end of the year. A third victory in the last 4 days played against Auxerre 2-0, Toulouse 0-1, Lens defeated 1-2 and therefore Nice. This significant contribution of points for Angevins contenders to maintain places them in 11th position in the ranking as mid-season approaches, with a good margin of maneuver over the first relegation - 8 points. The SCO was defeated twice in its first 7 receptions of the year, for 3 victories and 2 draws. FC Nantes fell a little further into the red last weekend.

Defeated in the last quarter of an hour by Lens 1-2, the Canaries suffered a second defeat in a row, after that at Lyon 3-0, and now have 6 games without a win, 2 draws, 4 losses. The situation seriously weakens their coach Luis Castro, whom the leaders will keep in his post for this meeting and the 32nd final of the Coupe de France on December 21 against Concarneau. His team is not the one to concede the most goals in the first part of the season but they managed only one clean sheet in the first 15 days. 

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Annecy and Le Mans meet in Ligue 2 on December 12, 2025, in what promises to be a tightly contested fixture at Parc des Sports. Both sides have had fluctuating fortunes over the past two months, with Annecy struggling to find consistency while Le Mans have shown resilience in grinding out results. Annecy’s manager Laurent Guyot has been under pressure after a series of mixed outcomes, including a French Cup exit against Grenoble on November 28. Meanwhile, Le Mans, guided by Patrick Videira, have managed to stay competitive in the league table, sitting slightly higher than Annecy thanks to their ability to avoid defeats even if many of their games ended in draws. The build-up to this clash has been marked by discussions around Annecy’s need to sharpen their attack and Le Mans’ capacity to frustrate opponents with disciplined defending.

Looking at recent matches, Annecy’s form has been patchy. They lost 2-1 to Grenoble in the French Cup, but earlier secured a morale-boosting 1-0 win over Bastia on November 21. Before that, they edged AS Cannes 2-1 in another cup tie, showing flashes of determination. However, defeats to Montpellier and Rodez highlighted their vulnerability away from home, while a 1-1 draw against Boulogne demonstrated their inability to close out games. Le Mans, on the other hand, have been harder to beat, recording multiple draws in their last six outings. They managed wins against sides like Dunkerque and Pau, but their inability to convert stalemates into victories has kept them from climbing higher in the standings. This contrast in recent performances sets the stage for a fascinating encounter where Annecy’s inconsistency meets Le Mans’ stubbornness.

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While it had been able to settle in the first part of the table during the last two years, Stade Lavallois is encountering much more difficulties this year. Indeed, Olivier Frapolli's men are struggling in 17th position in the ranking with 15 points taken during the first 16 days and they are therefore virtually roadblocks. That said, the Mayennais have the same number of points as the first non-relegation team. Able to win their last 2 away matches against Nancy 0-2 and Bastia 0-2, the Tangos had in the meantime lost against Troyes 0-1 at home. Finally, Monday evening, Laval completely lost against Stade de Reims 4-0.

 Dunkirk, for its part, should not have to fear when it comes to remaining in Ligue 2 this season. With a very interesting squad and collective, the USLD is once again a candidate for a place in the play-offs which it had already competed in last year. Very solid for a few weeks now, the Maritimes have not lost for almost 2 months and they have even had 4 wins in recent days. After being held in check by Boulogne 1-1 and by Rodez 1-1, the Northerners resumed their march forward against Saint-Etienne 1-0 last weekend in order to move up to 7th place in the ranking, 3 lengths from 5th place. 

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Fortunately for her, AS Nancy Lorraine was able to capitalize on numerous points during the first days. Because for several months now, this team has been floundering at the bottom of the standings and it finds itself stuck in the red zone, in 17th position in Ligue 2. Since their last success against the red lantern in Bastia at the end of October 2-0, the promoted team have put together a terrible series of 4 defeats in a row against Le Mans 1-0, Laval 0-2, Saint-Etienne 2-1 and finally Grenoble 1-0 at the weekend. last. On the other hand, Pablo Correa's men were able to qualify for the 32nd finals of the Coupe de France by dominating Sarregamines 3-4.

For its part, Clermont is not at the top in this championship either but its position is still more enviable than that of its opponent of the day. Grégory Proment's men are in 12th place in the standings with a lead of 4 points on the red zone, which is far from negligible for a team which had to compete in the play-offs last year to maintain its place in this championship. A little better recently, the Auvergnats have not lost for 3 days. And after beating Amiens 2-1, they held off against Red Star 2-2 and Boulogne 1-1 last week. 

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Author of a very coherent start to the season, Pau FC quickly took its place in the first part of the table. Better yet, the residents of Nouste Camp even had to spend a few weeks on the podium before experiencing a more complicated autumn. Nicolas Usaï's men had even lined up a long series of 7 matches in a row without the slightest victory, including draws conceded against Troyes 1-1 and Guingamp 2-2 and a defeat suffered at home against Le Mans 1-2. But last week, the Béarnais resumed their march forward by defeating Montpellier 0-1. A success which allows them to return to 6th place, a short distance from the top 5.

 For its part, Amiens will have to remobilize over the coming months or risk experiencing a huge disappointment at the end of the season. On a rather dangerous slope, Omar Daf's men have had a series of poor performances for some time to the point of finding themselves today in 15th position in the ranking with the same number of points as the first relegation. Completely on the street in recent weeks, the Picards have just suffered 5 losses in a row in Ligue 2 against Troyes 3-1, Grenoble 2-3, Clermont 2-1, Guingamp 1-2 and finally against Le Mans 1-0 last weekend. 

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Much too irregular to hope for anything good this year, this Rodez team risks having to look in the rearview mirror this season. Indeed, Raf is in the second part of the table, in 13th place, with a fairly small lead of only 3 points in the red zone. Even more worrying, Didier Saintini's men have only won one of their last 9 matches in this Ligue 2. It was against Annecy 2-1 at the end of October. Since then, the Aveyronnais have been dominated by Montpellier 2-0 and by Grenoble 2-1 and they have had two draws against Dunkirk 1-1 and against the Trojan leader 1-1 last weekend. In the meantime, the Ruthenois were knocked out by Canet en Roussillon in the Coupe de France 1-0.

For its part, En Avant Guingamp would undoubtedly like to aim a little higher than where it currently finds itself but it suffers far too much from its defensive fragility to hope to support the best teams in this championship in the race for the play-offs. The Bretons had, however, had a decent series, winning 2 wins in 3 days against Laval 2-0, Pau 2-2 and Amiens 1-2. But last week, Sylvain Ripoll's players completely missed their point by taking on water against Annecy 0-3. Following this setback, the Guingampais were relegated to 5 units from the top 5 and the race for the play-offs. 

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The record displayed by Union Berlin after the first 13 days is not particularly brilliant but it still allows it to hope to validate its maintenance without too many problems. Because with 15 points on the clock, the capital club is in 12th position in the standings with a fairly comfortable margin of 4 points over the first non-relegation team at the start of this new day. That said, the dynamic is not very good for the Iron Men who remain on 3 losses in a row in all competitions since their last success against Sankt Pauli 0-1. The Berliners were in fact dominated by Heidenheim 1-2, by Bayern in the Cup 2-3 and finally by Wolfsburg 3-1 last weekend.

On the other side of the field, RB Leipzig is much more to its advantage than its opponent of the day. 2nd in the ranking, RasenBall Sport is one of the great satisfactions of this first part of the season across the Rhine even if 1st place, currently occupied by Bayern Munich who are 8 lengths ahead, seems inaccessible for the moment. Still in good form, Ole Werner's men have just won 3 of their last 4 matches in all competitions against Werder Bremen 2-0, Borussia Mönchengladbach 0-0, Magdeburg 3-1 in the Cup and especially against Eintracht Frankfurt 6-0 last weekend. 

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17th in Serie A with 3 points ahead of the first relegated team, Lecce hopes to stay out of the red zone, the club's supreme objective. The team based in Puglia has done well recently by picking up 2 victories in the last 5 days, for 1 draw and 2 defeats. After a valuable success at home against Torino 2-1, Lecce carried out a bad operation by losing at Cremonese last weekend 2-0. Back in the elite after a long absence this season, Pisa logically expects to struggle to obtain maintenance.

The promoted team now occupies 18th place in Serie A with 3 units of expenditure on its opponent of the day. After having gone 6 matches without a loss, 1 victory and 5 draws, Alberto Gilardino's men have restarted a negative dynamic. They logically lost against Inter 0-2 before falling against a direct competitor, Parma, last Monday 0-1. 

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Den Bosch enter this clash with VVV-Venlo carrying a mixed bag of recent results but also a sense of resilience that has defined their campaign. Over the past two months, the club has been in the spotlight not only for football but also for local news, including civic issues in the city such as the Knoflook eviction case and disruptions in train services around Den Bosch. On the pitch, however, their form has been lively: a thrilling 5-2 victory over Almere City on November 21 showcased their attacking flair, while a 2-1 win against Willem II on November 28 reinforced their ability to grind out results against strong opposition. Despite setbacks like the 2-3 loss to Jong Utrecht and a narrow 1-2 defeat to Cambuur on December 5, Den Bosch remain competitive in the Eerste Divisie, sitting mid-table with ambitions to climb higher. Their blend of youthful energy and experienced leadership has made them unpredictable, but also dangerous when momentum is on their side.

VVV-Venlo, meanwhile, have endured a turbulent run of fixtures that has tested their consistency. In late November, they fell 0-3 to ADO Den Haag and 0-2 at home to Willem II, results that highlighted defensive vulnerabilities. Yet, their resilience shone through in early December when they stunned RKC Waalwijk with a dramatic 2-1 away win, sealed by Bjorn van Zijl’s stoppage-time strike. This victory was celebrated as a morale boost, especially after consecutive losses to Almere City and Den Haag. Off the pitch, Venlo have been active in strengthening their squad, with contract extensions such as Odriss signing until 2027, signaling long-term planning. Their youth players have also been making headlines, with Ummenthun and Dahia featuring in Oranje U15 futures matches, underlining the club’s commitment to nurturing talent. Despite their uneven form, Venlo remain a side capable of springing surprises, particularly when their attack clicks into gear.

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The upcoming Eerste Divisie fixture between FC Dordrecht and FC Eindhoven has generated considerable anticipation, especially given the fluctuating form of both sides in recent weeks. Dordrecht have been in the spotlight after their spirited 2-1 away victory against Roda on November 25, which was followed by a narrow 1-2 home defeat to Jong FC Utrecht on November 28. Earlier in November, they held Vitesse to a 1-1 draw and managed a goalless stalemate against Ajax B, showing resilience against technically strong opponents. However, their KNVB Cup exit at the hands of Willem II, where they suffered a heavy 7-0 defeat on October 30, raised questions about their defensive depth. Eindhoven, meanwhile, have had a mixed run, alternating between wins and losses, and their inconsistency has been a recurring theme in the past two months. This match therefore arrives at a crucial juncture for both clubs, with Dordrecht aiming to consolidate their mid-table position and Eindhoven desperate to climb out of the lower half.

Recent news surrounding Dordrecht has focused on their ability to score consistently at home, with statistics showing they find the net in nearly 80% of their home fixtures. Their attacking line, though not prolific, has been effective enough to trouble most defenses in the division. Eindhoven, on the other hand, have been highlighted for their variability away from home, with only about 30% of their recent away matches seeing them score. This inconsistency has been a major talking point among analysts, especially after their narrow wins earlier in November were followed by disappointing defeats. The tactical narrative heading into this clash emphasizes Dordrecht’s tendency to both score and concede, while Eindhoven’s unpredictability makes them a dangerous opponent if underestimated. The media has also noted the high number of corners both teams have been involved in recently, suggesting set pieces could play a decisive role in this encounter.

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FC Emmen will welcome Helmond Sport in the Eerste Divisie on December 12, and the build-up to this fixture has been marked by contrasting fortunes for both sides. Emmen have shown resilience in recent weeks, bouncing back from a narrow defeat with a solid win and a couple of draws that kept them mid-table but competitive. Their home form has been particularly encouraging, with goals flowing at De Oude Meerdijk, and the team’s attacking unit has been praised for its consistency. In the past two months, Emmen’s ability to score in nearly every match has been a talking point, even if defensive lapses have occasionally cost them points. The club has also been in the news for its focus on youth development, with several academy players making appearances in the senior squad, a move that has been well received by supporters.

Helmond Sport, on the other hand, have endured a more turbulent period. Their last five matches have produced just one victory, alongside a draw and three defeats, leaving them struggling to find rhythm. Away from home, Helmond’s performances have been inconsistent, with defensive vulnerabilities exposed by sharper opponents. In recent weeks, the team has been in the spotlight for managerial adjustments, as tactical tweaks have been attempted to stabilize results. Despite these challenges, Helmond have shown flashes of promise, particularly in their win against a mid-table rival, where their counterattacking play was effective. However, the lack of sustained momentum has kept them closer to the lower half of the standings, and their supporters are eager for a turnaround before the winter break.

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FC Porto B enter this clash against Penafiel with a mixture of resilience and ambition, having shown flashes of consistency in recent weeks. Under the guidance of João Brandão, the young squad has been tested against seasoned Liga Portugal 2 opponents, and their results reflect both promise and growing maturity. In November, Porto B secured a narrow but important 1-0 victory over Portimonense, followed by another strong performance in a 1-0 win away at Chaves. However, setbacks such as the 1-2 home defeat to Lusitânia and the 1-0 loss against Oliveirense highlighted the challenges of maintaining momentum in a competitive league. Their most recent fixture against Leixões on December 6 ended in defeat, but the team remains determined to bounce back, especially with the upcoming duel against Penafiel offering a chance to reaffirm their credentials.

Penafiel, meanwhile, arrive at this encounter with a mixed bag of results that underline their unpredictability. In early November, they impressed with a 3-1 away win against Vizela, showcasing attacking flair and defensive solidity. Yet, inconsistency has plagued their campaign, as seen in the 2-1 defeat to Marítimo on November 23 and the 2-0 loss against Academico de Viseu at the end of the month. More recently, on December 7, Penafiel managed a hard-fought draw against União de Leiria, which demonstrated their ability to grind out results even when not at their best. The team has also enjoyed notable victories, such as the 2-0 triumph over Benfica B in October, proving they can rise to the occasion against strong opposition. Their form suggests they are capable of troubling Porto B, but lapses in concentration have cost them valuable points.

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At the heart of a good dynamic of five days without defeat in the elite, Real Sociedad fell back into its failings at the start of the season by piling up two defeats in two days against Villarreal at home 2-3 and on the lawn of Alaves last weekend 1-0. In the standings, the Basques fell back to 14th place with only four lengths ahead of Girona, the first team to be affected by the red zone. A perfect transition to evoke Girona, 18th and first relegated team. With four lengths behind their Basque counterpart in the evening, the Catalan team has every interest in launching a big blow at Anoeta this evening.

However, on the road this season, its only success came in the Copa del Rey against the modest formation of Constancia 2-3 after extra time. To date, the Blanquivermells have lost their last two matches on the road, in the 1/32 final of the Copa del Rey against Ourense 2-1 and in La Liga, last weekend, against a ruthless Elche team 3-0. 

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Cultural Leonesa enter this clash with renewed confidence after a string of mixed but encouraging results in LaLiga2. In early December, they stunned Eibar away with a 2-1 victory, thanks to goals from Manu Justo and Thiago Ojeda, showing resilience against a side that dominated possession. Just days earlier, they had also beaten Málaga 1-0 at home, while their November campaign included a 2-1 win away at Cádiz and a narrow 1-0 loss to Granada. These performances underline a team that has found balance between defensive solidity and opportunistic attacking play. The squad’s recent news has highlighted Ojeda’s growing influence, as his goals have been decisive in tight encounters, and the club’s management has praised the squad depth that has allowed them to rotate effectively during a congested fixture list.

Huesca, on the other hand, have endured a turbulent run in the past two months, oscillating between promising wins and disappointing defeats. Their most recent outing saw them fall heavily at home to Valladolid, losing 4-1, a result that exposed defensive frailties. However, they had previously secured a 2-0 home win against Sporting Gijón and battled to a goalless draw away at Almería, showing glimpses of resilience. Earlier in November, they were edged out 1-0 by Zaragoza, but also fought back to draw 2-2 with Andorra. News around the club has focused on their need to stabilize performances, with manager Bolo emphasizing the importance of tightening defensive organization while continuing to rely on the attacking spark of players like Soko, who remains their top scorer this season.

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Leicester City enter this clash with Ipswich Town carrying a mixed bag of recent performances and plenty of off-field headlines. In the past two months, the Foxes have been in the spotlight due to speculation around manager Martí Cifuentes’ future, with reports suggesting pressure mounting after inconsistent results. Transfer news has also stirred attention, with Wilfred Ndidi linked to clubs like Juventus and Manchester United, while Danny Ward departed to join Wrexham. On the pitch, Leicester have shown flashes of quality, such as their 3-1 win away at Derby County, but they have also stumbled, including a 3-0 defeat at Southampton and a narrow 2-3 home loss to Sheffield United. These results highlight a team still searching for consistency as they aim to climb the Championship table.

Ipswich Town, meanwhile, have been riding a wave of optimism under Kieran McKenna, who continues to be linked with bigger managerial opportunities but remains committed to the Tractor Boys. In the last two months, Ipswich have produced some eye-catching results, including a commanding 3-0 victory over Coventry City at Portman Road and a 4-1 away triumph against Swansea. However, they have also experienced setbacks, such as a 2-1 defeat at Oxford United and a frustrating 0-0 draw with Wrexham. News around the club has included speculation about potential moves for experienced free agents like Jesse Lingard, while McKenna has emphasized the importance of squad rotation and maintaining momentum in a demanding season. Ipswich’s resilience and attacking flair have kept them firmly in the promotion conversation.

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Middlesbrough head into their clash with Queens Park Rangers with renewed confidence after a mixed run of results in recent weeks. Michael Carrick’s side have been battling inconsistency but remain firmly in the hunt for a playoff spot. In November, Boro secured a crucial 4-0 victory over Preston North End, showcasing their attacking flair, while also grinding out a hard-fought 2-0 win against Stoke City. However, they stumbled against Ipswich Town, losing 2-0, which highlighted defensive vulnerabilities that Carrick has been keen to address. Off the pitch, Middlesbrough have been buoyed by the return of key players from injury, including Riley McGree, whose creativity in midfield has been sorely missed. The Riverside Stadium faithful will be expecting their team to build momentum as the festive fixtures pile up, knowing that every point is vital in the Championship’s relentless race.

Queens Park Rangers, meanwhile, have been fighting to climb away from the relegation zone under the guidance of Martí Cifuentes, who took charge in late October. The new manager has already made an impact, with QPR securing a morale-boosting 2-0 win over Stoke City in November and following it up with a gritty 1-1 draw against Norwich City. Yet, inconsistency remains a problem, as seen in their 4-0 defeat to Leeds United and a narrow 2-1 loss to Watford. The past two months have been turbulent, but there is a sense of cautious optimism around Loftus Road, with the squad showing signs of adapting to Cifuentes’ tactical demands. The likes of Ilias Chair and Lyndon Dykes have been central to their attacking efforts, though defensive lapses have continued to cost them valuable points. QPR’s supporters are hoping that the team can string together results to ease relegation fears.

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Millwall’s upcoming clash with Hull City at The Den arrives at a crucial point in the Championship season, with both sides eager to solidify their mid-table positions and push closer to the playoff spots. Over the past two months, Millwall have been dealing with injury concerns, notably Billy Mitchell’s hamstring issue and Benicio Baker-Boaitey’s groin problem, which have limited squad rotation. Despite these setbacks, the Lions have shown resilience, recording victories against Bristol City and Coventry while narrowly losing to Southampton. Their home form has been particularly encouraging, as The Den continues to be a difficult venue for visiting teams, with the crowd’s intensity often translating into strong performances. The narrative surrounding Millwall has been one of determination and grit, qualities that will be essential against Hull’s dynamic attack.

Hull City, meanwhile, enter this fixture with mixed fortunes in recent weeks. They secured a notable win over Sheffield Wednesday but stumbled against Ipswich and Middlesbrough, highlighting their inconsistency. Injuries have also played a role in shaping their campaign, with Lukas Jensen sidelined due to an Achilles tendon problem and Josh Coburn recovering from a hip injury. Nevertheless, Hull’s attacking options remain dangerous, with players like Ozan Tufan and Jaden Philogene capable of producing moments of brilliance. Their away record has been patchy, but they have shown resilience in tight matches, often keeping themselves competitive until the final whistle. The Tigers’ recent performances suggest they are capable of troubling Millwall, though their defensive lapses have been a recurring theme that could prove costly.

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Norwich City enter this clash with Southampton in the Championship looking to steady their campaign after a mixed run of results. Over the past two months, the Canaries have been dealing with inconsistency, highlighted by their 3-1 defeat to Ipswich Town in late November, which was a bitter blow given the rivalry. They did bounce back with a 2-1 win over Sunderland, showing resilience and attacking flair through Jonathan Rowe and Gabriel Sara. However, defensive lapses have continued to haunt them, as seen in their 1-1 draw against Sheffield Wednesday. Off the pitch, Norwich have been monitoring injuries closely, with key players like Ashley Barnes returning to training, which could provide a timely boost to their attacking options. The team’s supporters remain hopeful that Carrow Road can be a fortress, but the pressure is mounting on David Wagner to deliver consistency as the season heads into its crucial winter phase.

Southampton, meanwhile, have been one of the Championship’s most in-form sides over the past two months, climbing steadily into the playoff positions. Russell Martin’s men have shown remarkable resilience, going unbeaten in several fixtures, including a 2-0 victory over West Bromwich Albion and a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Watford. Their standout performance came in a 3-1 win against Birmingham City, where Adam Armstrong once again proved his worth as a reliable goal scorer. The Saints’ defensive structure has tightened considerably, with Jan Bednarek and Taylor Harwood-Bellis forming a solid partnership at the back. Off the pitch, Southampton have been buoyed by news of their financial stability and commitment to retaining key players during the January transfer window, which has reassured fans that promotion ambitions remain realistic. The squad’s confidence is evident, and their momentum makes them a dangerous opponent for any side in the division.

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Stoke City head into their clash with Swansea City on December 13th at the bet365 Stadium with renewed confidence after a string of positive results in recent weeks. The Potters have shown resilience under pressure, bouncing back from a narrow defeat against Middlesbrough with successive wins over Huddersfield and Cardiff. Their defensive organization has been a highlight, with goalkeeper Jack Bonham producing key saves and the backline tightening up considerably. In the past two months, Stoke have also been in the headlines for their push towards the playoff spots, with manager Steven Schumacher emphasizing consistency as the team’s main priority. The atmosphere around the club has been optimistic, with fans sensing that momentum is finally building at the right time in the season.

Swansea City, on the other hand, have endured a more turbulent run of form, struggling to find rhythm in the Championship. Their last two months have been marked by inconsistency, with defeats to Ipswich and Sunderland followed by a hard-fought draw against Millwall and a narrow win over Bristol City. The Swans have been dealing with injury concerns, particularly in midfield, which has disrupted their balance and creativity. Recent news has focused on the club’s efforts to stabilize results under manager Luke Williams, who has called for greater composure in front of goal. Despite flashes of attacking promise from players like Jamal Lowe, Swansea’s inability to convert chances has left them vulnerable, and their defensive lapses have been costly in tight matches.

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Barnsley enter this clash with Leyton Orient buoyed by a mix of resilience and ambition. In recent weeks, the South Yorkshire side have made headlines not only for their football but also for community developments, such as the official announcement of their FA Cup third-round tie against Liverpool at Anfield in January. On the pitch, Barnsley have shown flashes of dominance, most notably in their emphatic 5-0 victory over Luton Town in late November. They followed that up with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Stockport County, demonstrating their ability to grind out results even when momentum falters. These performances underline a team that is steadily finding balance between attacking flair and defensive solidity, a crucial ingredient as they aim to climb higher in League One.

Leyton Orient, meanwhile, have been carving out their own narrative in the division. Under Richie Wellens, the London club has been steadily improving, with recent news highlighting both their community outreach initiatives and their push toward the playoff spots. Their 4-0 demolition of Burton Albion away from home at the end of November was a statement of intent, showing their attacking prowess and ability to punish weaker defenses. Prior to that, Orient secured a 2-1 win over Exeter City and battled to a 1-1 draw against Blackpool, results that reflect a team capable of mixing grit with flair. Despite a setback in the FA Cup against Salford City, Orient’s league form suggests they are determined to remain competitive and keep pressure on the teams above them.

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Bolton Wanderers head into their League One clash with Exeter City on December 13 with confidence built on a strong run of results over the past two months. The Trotters have been in impressive form, recording notable wins such as a 1-0 victory over Cardiff, a 2-1 triumph against Huddersfield, and a dominant 4-0 dismantling of Port Vale. They also showcased their attacking prowess in a thrilling 6-2 win over Oldham, while holding Bradford to a goalless draw in a disciplined defensive display. Off the pitch, Bolton have been buoyed by positive news surrounding their squad depth, with several key players returning from minor injuries, giving manager Ian Evatt more options as the busy festive period approaches. The team’s consistency has kept them in the upper reaches of the table, and their supporters are beginning to believe that promotion could be within reach if this momentum continues.

Exeter City, meanwhile, arrive at this fixture with mixed fortunes but signs of resilience in recent weeks. Their last five matches have included a dramatic 4-3 win over Arsenal’s U21 side in the EFL Trophy, a solid 2-0 away victory at Halifax, and a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Wigan. They also managed a narrow 1-0 win over Newport, though a 2-1 defeat to Leyton Orient highlighted some defensive vulnerabilities that have plagued them throughout the season. News from the past two months has focused on Exeter’s efforts to stabilize their form, with manager Gary Caldwell emphasizing the importance of tightening up at the back while maintaining their attacking flair. The Grecians have shown flashes of quality but remain inconsistent, which has left them hovering around mid-table and needing a big performance to climb higher.

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Bradford City prepare to welcome Reading in a League One clash that has drawn attention due to both clubs’ fluctuating form and recent headlines. Bradford have been in the news after manager Graham Alexander emphasized the importance of consistency following their mixed run of results in November. The Bantams secured a hard-fought win against Shrewsbury but also suffered a setback against Barnsley, highlighting their struggle to maintain momentum. Reading, meanwhile, have been dealing with off-field matters, including financial adjustments and squad rotation decisions by Leam Richardson, who has been tasked with stabilizing the Royals after a turbulent start to the season. Both sides enter this fixture with renewed determination, knowing that December fixtures often set the tone for the second half of the campaign.

Looking at Bradford’s recent matches, their victory over Shrewsbury showcased resilience, with Andy Cook once again proving to be a reliable presence in attack. However, their draw against Fleetwood and defeat to Barnsley revealed defensive vulnerabilities that Alexander has been keen to address. Reading’s last two months have been equally eventful, with a spirited win against Wycombe Wanderers followed by a frustrating draw against Charlton Athletic. Their narrow loss to Portsmouth further underlined the need for sharper finishing in front of goal. These results paint a picture of two teams capable of producing moments of quality but equally prone to lapses that can cost them valuable points in a tightly contested League One table.

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Burton Albion prepare to welcome Wycombe Wanderers to the Pirelli Stadium in mid-December, with both sides entering the clash on the back of mixed fortunes in League One. Burton have endured a season of inconsistency, struggling to string together consecutive wins, though they have shown resilience in certain fixtures. In recent weeks, Burton managed a hard-fought draw against Mansfield Town and picked up points in other tight encounters, but defeats against stronger opposition have highlighted their defensive vulnerabilities. The club has been dealing with squad rotation issues and injuries, which have made it difficult for manager Martin Paterson to settle on a consistent starting eleven. Despite these challenges, Burton remain determined to climb away from the lower reaches of the table, and their home support will be crucial in this fixture.

Wycombe Wanderers, meanwhile, arrive with a slightly stronger record, having shown flashes of their promotion-chasing potential. Over the past couple of months, Wycombe secured victories against sides like Barnsley and battled to draws against competitive teams such as Portsmouth, demonstrating their ability to grind out results. However, they also suffered setbacks, including a narrow defeat to Birmingham City, which reminded fans of the fine margins in League One. Manager Matt Bloomfield has emphasized the importance of defensive solidity and clinical finishing, and his squad has responded with disciplined performances. Wycombe’s attacking options, including players like Dale Taylor and Kone, have been instrumental in keeping them in the upper half of the table, and their away form has been particularly encouraging heading into this clash.

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Cardiff City’s return to League One has been marked by a strong run of form, and the upcoming clash with Doncaster Rovers on December 13 is shaping up to be one of the more intriguing fixtures of the winter schedule. Over the past two months, Cardiff have been in the headlines for their impressive consistency, with manager Brian Barry-Murphy praised for instilling discipline and attacking intent in his squad. Their recent victories over Portsmouth and Barnsley highlighted their ability to dominate possession and create chances, while a narrow defeat to Derby County showed they still have vulnerabilities. Sitting near the top of the table, Cardiff’s momentum has been fueled by standout performances from midfielders Ryan Wintle and Callum Willock, who have both contributed goals and assists in recent weeks.

Doncaster Rovers, meanwhile, have endured a more turbulent period, with mixed results that underline their struggle for consistency. Under Grant McCann, the team has shown flashes of resilience, such as their hard-fought draw against Wycombe and a spirited win over Burton Albion. However, defeats to Charlton and Bolton have exposed defensive frailties, particularly in dealing with set pieces and counterattacks. In the past two months, Doncaster’s news cycle has been dominated by injury concerns, with striker B. Hanlan only recently returning to fitness, and questions about whether their squad depth can sustain them through the congested winter fixtures. Despite these challenges, Doncaster remain a dangerous side capable of upsetting stronger opponents, especially when their midfield trio of Lirak Molyneux, Harrison Bailey, and Owen Bailey find rhythm.

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Stockport County’s rise in League One this season has been one of the more intriguing stories in English football. Over the past two months, they have shown resilience despite a few setbacks, including a narrow defeat to Barnsley and a hard-fought draw against Portsmouth. Their recent victory over Wigan Athletic highlighted their ability to grind out results even when not at their fluent best. News from the club has centered around manager Dave Challinor’s emphasis on defensive solidity, with the team working tirelessly to maintain their shape and frustrate opponents. Stockport’s home form at Edgeley Park has been particularly strong, giving them confidence ahead of this clash with Stevenage.

Stevenage, meanwhile, have endured a mixed run of form in recent weeks. They managed a spirited win against Blackpool but followed it up with disappointing losses to Charlton and Derby County. Their most recent draw against Lincoln City showed glimpses of improvement, though inconsistency remains a concern. In the past two months, Stevenage have also been dealing with squad rotation issues, as injuries to key midfielders have forced manager Steve Evans to experiment with different lineups. Despite these challenges, Stevenage’s physical style of play and ability to disrupt opponents make them a dangerous side, particularly against teams that rely heavily on possession.

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Arsenal welcome Wolverhampton Wanderers to the Emirates Stadium in mid-December for a Premier League clash that already feels like a meeting of opposites. Arsenal have been riding high at the top of the table, collecting consistent victories and showing a level of maturity that has impressed pundits and supporters alike. In the past two months, they secured a convincing 2-0 win over Brentford and followed it up with another strong performance against Brighton, continuing their push for the title. Mikel Arteta’s side has been praised for its defensive solidity and attacking flair, with players like Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus contributing heavily to their momentum. The atmosphere around the club is buoyant, with fans believing this could be the season Arsenal finally reclaim the Premier League crown.

Wolves, on the other hand, arrive in London under very different circumstances. Their recent form has been troubling, with defeats piling up and confidence visibly shaken. In the last two months, Wolves suffered a damaging loss to Nottingham Forest and were held to a frustrating draw against Burnley, leaving them rooted to the bottom of the table. Gary O’Neil has struggled to find a balance in his squad, with defensive lapses and a lack of cutting edge in attack undermining their efforts. The club’s supporters are growing increasingly anxious, as Wolves currently sit in 20th place with only two points to show for their campaign. The contrast between the two sides could not be starker, and this fixture represents a daunting challenge for the visitors.

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Burnley prepare to host Fulham at Turf Moor in what promises to be a tense Premier League clash. The Clarets have endured a difficult run of form over the past two months, slipping deeper into relegation trouble. Their recent defeats to Arsenal, West Ham, Chelsea, Brentford, and Crystal Palace have highlighted defensive frailties and a lack of cutting edge in attack. Manager Scott Parker has admitted frustration after narrow losses, particularly the 0-1 home defeat to Palace at the start of December. Burnley remain stuck in 19th place with just ten points, and the pressure is mounting as they look to salvage their season. The home crowd will demand a response, but confidence is low after six defeats in their last seven league outings.

Fulham, meanwhile, arrive in Lancashire with a mixed bag of results but a stronger position in the table. Marco Silva’s side stunned Tottenham with a 2-1 away victory at the end of November and followed it up with a narrow 1-0 win over Sunderland. However, their defensive vulnerabilities were exposed in a chaotic 4-5 defeat to Manchester City at Craven Cottage earlier this month, a game that showcased both their attacking flair and their inability to contain elite opposition. Fulham sit 15th with 17 points, offering them some breathing space above the relegation zone. News around the club has focused on Silva’s insistence that his team must tighten up defensively if they are to push further up the table during the festive period.

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Chelsea head into their clash with Everton at Stamford Bridge with renewed confidence after a turbulent start to the season. Over the past two months, the Blues have shown signs of improvement under Mauricio Pochettino, with notable victories including a 2-0 win over Newcastle in the Carabao Cup and a hard-fought 3-2 triumph against Brighton in the Premier League. Despite a setback against Manchester United in early December, Chelsea’s attacking play has been sharper, with Cole Palmer emerging as a key figure in their forward line. The squad has also been buoyed by the return of Reece James from injury, although his fitness remains closely monitored. News surrounding Chelsea has focused on their push to climb the table and secure European qualification, a goal that seemed distant earlier in the campaign but now appears more realistic given their recent performances.

Everton, meanwhile, have endured a rollercoaster period marked by off-field drama and on-pitch resilience. The club was docked ten points in November due to breaches of financial regulations, a punishment that initially dropped them into the relegation zone. However, Sean Dyche’s side responded admirably, securing crucial wins against Nottingham Forest and Newcastle, while also battling to a gritty draw against Brighton. Their victory over Burnley in early December highlighted the team’s fighting spirit, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin rediscovering some form and Jordan Pickford continuing to provide stability in goal. The Toffees’ supporters have rallied behind the team despite the sanctions, and the players have shown determination to prove they can survive and thrive in the Premier League regardless of the off-field challenges.

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Liverpool’s clash with Brighton in the Premier League promises to be one of the more intriguing fixtures of the winter schedule. Jurgen Klopp’s side have been in strong form over the past two months, with notable victories including a 2-0 win over Manchester United at Anfield and a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Manchester City at the Etihad. The Reds have also advanced in the Europa League, defeating Sparta Prague convincingly in March. Recent headlines have focused on Mohamed Salah’s return from injury, which has boosted Liverpool’s attacking options, while young midfielder Conor Bradley has continued to impress with his energetic performances. The team’s consistency has kept them firmly in the title race, and this match against Brighton is seen as another crucial step in maintaining momentum.

Brighton, meanwhile, have endured a mixed run of results in the past two months. Roberto De Zerbi’s side secured a memorable 5-0 victory over Sheffield United in February, showcasing their attacking flair, but they also suffered defeats against Fulham and Tottenham, highlighting defensive vulnerabilities. Their Europa League campaign ended in disappointment after being knocked out by Roma, which has shifted their focus entirely to domestic competition. Injuries have been a concern, with key players such as Kaoru Mitoma sidelined, but the emergence of youngsters like Facundo Buonanotte has provided some optimism. Brighton’s style remains bold and adventurous, but their inconsistency has left them battling to stay in the top half of the table rather than pushing for European qualification.

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FC Metz is experiencing the first months of adaptation to the level of Ligue 1 at the roller coaster pace. While he thought he had done the hardest part by snatching 3 wins in a row between the 10th and 12th day to get out of the relegation zone, the promoted player has since fallen back into his ways. The good series ended last month in Brest 3-2 for Grenats also beaten against Rennes 0-1 and Sunday at Auxerre 3-1. Doubled in the standings by its last tormentor, Metz once again became bottom of Ligue 1, 4 points behind the first non-relegation place.

 PSG has one last opportunity to regain control of the Championship before the end of year break. Dispossessed of the throne by Lens after its misstep in Monaco 1-0 at the end of November, the best defense in Ligue 1 remains one point behind the northern club despite its big victory against Rennes 5-0. The Rouge et Bleu, however, had a major trip to negotiate on Wednesday in Bilbao for the Champions League, before focusing on the national calendar. 

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Paris FC welcome Toulouse to the Stade Jean Bouin in what promises to be a fascinating Ligue 1 clash. Over the past two months, Paris FC have been working hard to stabilize their campaign after a rocky start. Their recent 1-1 draw against Auxerre showed signs of resilience, with Ilan Kebbal finding the net to secure a point. Before that, they battled to another draw against Le Havre, though they suffered a setback in a defeat to Lille earlier in December. The team has been praised for tightening its defensive structure, even if consistency in attack remains elusive. News around the club has focused on their determination to avoid slipping into the relegation zone, with coach Stéphane Gilli emphasizing discipline and balance in midfield.

Toulouse, meanwhile, arrive with a slightly stronger run of form, though they too have faced challenges. In the past two months, Toulouse managed a hard-fought win but followed it with a string of draws, including stalemates against Montpellier and Brest. Their resilience has been notable, as they have avoided heavy defeats, but the lack of cutting edge in front of goal has been a recurring theme. Toulouse’s squad news has highlighted the importance of keeping key players fit, especially after injuries disrupted their rhythm earlier in the season. The club has also been in the spotlight for its youth development, with several academy graduates earning minutes in recent fixtures, a sign of long-term planning despite the immediate pressures of Ligue 1 competition.

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Stade Rennais saw its enchanted parenthesis close last Saturday at the Parc des Princes, scene of a severe defeat against PSG 5-0. The Rouge et Noir then remained on 4 victories, which allowed them to emerge from the crisis and gain a lot of confidence, notably with convincing successes against Strasbourg 4-1 and Monaco 4-1. 6th in Ligue 1, 5 lengths from the podium, Rennes is in the midst of qualifying for a European Cup.

 The other Breton team in this poster, Brest 10th, remains on victories gleaned against Metz 3-2 at the end of the suspense, Strasbourg 1-2 in a stunning match and Monaco despite a last half hour played in numerical inferiority 1-0. This prosperous period, the club's best in the first part of the season, brings SB 29 one point closer to the upper half of the ranking and moves it 8 points away from the first relegation zone. 

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Weighed down by the first months of completely unsuccessful competition, Borussia Mönchengladbach cannot claim to play the leading roles in this championship. That said, this team is now doing much better since it has had a very good series of 5 matches without the slightest defeat in the league and even 4 successes over this period. The Poulains in fact took the measure of Sankt Pauli 0-4, Cologne 3-1 and Heidenheim 0-3 before holding off RB Leipzig 0-0. Then surprised by Sankt Pauli in the German Cup 1-2, the Gladbach players immediately reassured themselves by dominating Mainz 0-1. In the standings, Borussia is now in 10th place with a lead of 5 points over the first relegation place.

Opposite, Wolfsburg is experiencing a first part of the season well below forecasts. While we could have expected it to play at least one place in the first part of the table, this team finds itself in difficulty, in 15th position in the ranking, with only one small point ahead of the red zone. Completely on the street in recent weeks, VfL had suffered 3 defeats in a row against Hoffenheim 2-3, Werder Bremen 2-1 and Bayer Leverkusen 1-3 before stopping the bleeding against Eintracht Frankfurt 1-1. Finally, last week, the Wolves found their smile again by winning against Union Berlin 3-1. 

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Although it displays fairly obvious qualities, Eintracht Frankfurt is clearly not at the level of the best teams in Germany, due in particular to a defensive fragility which was once again evident last week on the field of Leipzig 6-0. Moreover, with 29 goals conceded in 13 days, the Eagles have the worst record in the Bundesliga in this register despite their 7th place in the general ranking. However, before this correction, they remained on 2 good successes obtained against Mainz 1-0 and Cologne 3-4 and on a draw obtained against Wolfsburg 1-1. On deck in the Champions League this week, Eintracht went to FC Barcelona for the 6th day of the league phase where it will be complicated to qualify for the play-offs. For its part, Augsburg obviously does not have the same ambitions for the top of the table and hopes of European qualification as its opponent of the day.

On the contrary, this team risks having to fight for a good while longer to validate its continuation for next season. That said, Sandro Wagner's men have given themselves a little breathing room by winning 2 of their last 3 league matches, each time at home, against Hamburg 1-0 and especially Bayer Leverkusen 2-0 last weekend. In the meantime, the Bavarians were still beaten quite severely on the Hoffenheim field 3-0. In the ranking, Augsburg occupies 14th place, 2 lengths ahead of the red zone. 

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After coming very close to relegation to the 2.Bundesliga which would have been an industrial disaster, Hoffenheim is rebounding in a very good way this year. This team is indeed at the gates of the top 4 qualifying for the Champions League, in 5th position, with a delay of 5 points on 4th place Bayer Leverkusen after its bad operation carried out last weekend against Dortmund 2-0. Before that, the TSG maintained an excellent dynamic since it had achieved 3 successes in 4 days against Wolfsburg 2-3, Leipzig 3-1, Mainz 1-1 and finally Augsburg 3-0. Opposite, Hamburg has only one very clear objective this season: to secure its maintenance as quickly as possible after having spent very long years at the lower level.

The promoted teams are currently on time in terms of their passing times since they are in 13th place in the ranking with 15 points on the clock, 4 more than the first relegated team, Heidenheim. Hooked by Dortmund 1-1 and beaten by Augsburg 1-0, the HSV players then went on to win two victories against Stuttgart 2-1 and Werder Bremen 3-2 last week. In the meantime, they still saw their road end in the German Cup against Holstein Kiel 1-1, 2-4 Tab. 

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How complicated it is this season for this Sankt Pauli team. However, this team based in Hamburg had started quite strongly with 7 points taken during the first 3 days. But then, the Pirates of the League saw their ship sink by following a terrible series of 9 defeats in a row in the Bundesliga, against Freiburg 2-1, Union Berlin 0-1 and Bayern Munich 3-1 to name only the last ones. That said, things are a little better now for Pauli who was able to qualify for the quarter-finals of the German Cup after his victory against Borussia Mönchengladbach 1-2 and his draw against Cologne last weekend 1-1. Nevertheless, the locals remain 17th in the ranking, 4 lengths behind the first non-relegation place.

 Heidenheim, for his part, has also revived for a few days while he too seemed to be at rock bottom a few days ago. Quite soundly beaten by Bayer Leverkusen 6-0 and by Borussia Mönchengladbach 0-3, this team was able to pound the table by winning on the field of Union Berlin 1-2. And FCH was then able to follow up by dominating Friborg 2-1 last weekend. Two successes which allowed it to move up to 16th place in the ranking, a short distance from the first non-relegation place. 

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Atalanta enter this clash at the Gewiss Stadium with renewed confidence after a convincing 4-0 victory over Genoa in late November, a result that lifted spirits following a mixed run of form earlier in the autumn. Over the past two months, Gian Piero Gasperini’s side has alternated between strong attacking displays and frustrating lapses, including a narrow defeat to Fiorentina and a hard-fought draw against Torino. News from Bergamo has also centered on the fitness of key midfielders, with Teun Koopmeiners returning to training after a minor knock, which could prove crucial in stabilizing their creative output. The team currently sits mid-table, but their recent resurgence suggests they are eager to climb higher before the winter break.

Cagliari, on the other hand, arrive in Bergamo with a more complicated narrative. Under Fabio Pisacane, the Sardinian side has struggled to find consistency, losing to Napoli in early December after previously holding Bologna to a draw. Their last two months have been marked by defensive frailties, conceding multiple goals against Inter and Lazio, though they did manage a gritty win over Empoli that provided a brief spark of optimism. News from the camp has highlighted the importance of Leonardo Pavoletti’s leadership, as the veteran striker continues to inspire younger teammates despite limited minutes. Sitting just above the relegation zone, Cagliari’s priority remains survival, and every point gained away from home carries immense value.

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Parma enter this clash with Lazio carrying the weight of a turbulent couple of months. Their recent fixtures have been a mixed bag, with a morale-boosting 1-0 win away at Pisa thanks to Adrian Benedyczak’s penalty, but also painful defeats against Udinese and Bologna. Earlier in November, they managed a crucial 2-1 victory over Hellas Verona, which briefly lifted spirits in their relegation battle. However, their Coppa Italia exit at the hands of Bologna underscored the inconsistency that has plagued them. The team’s struggles in maintaining defensive solidity have been evident, conceding multiple goals against Roma and Milan, though they did manage a spirited 2-2 draw against the Rossoneri. Parma’s challenge remains balancing their attacking intent with the need to avoid costly lapses at the back, especially as they hover dangerously close to the relegation zone.

Lazio, on the other hand, arrive in Parma with a sense of cautious optimism. Maurizio Sarri’s side recently drew 1-1 with Bologna in a tense encounter that saw Mario Gila sent off, forcing them to defend with ten men. Just days before, they had knocked AC Milan out of the Coppa Italia with a narrow 1-0 win, courtesy of Mattia Zaccagni’s decisive header, showing resilience and tactical discipline. In Serie A, their form has been uneven, with defeats to Milan and Inter, but also convincing wins against Lecce and Cagliari. This inconsistency has left them mid-table, trailing the European qualification spots but still within striking distance. The Biancocelesti’s ability to control possession and create chances has been evident, yet their finishing and defensive lapses have often undermined their progress. Facing Parma, they will be eager to assert dominance while avoiding the complacency that has cost them points in recent weeks.

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Torino prepare to host Cremonese in Serie A on December 13, 2025, with both sides entering the clash in contrasting moods. Torino have endured a mixed run of form over the past two months, struggling to find consistency despite flashes of quality. Their recent defeat against Lecce by 2-1 highlighted defensive lapses that have plagued them, though they did manage to secure a hard-fought draw against Fiorentina earlier in November. News around the club has focused on coach Marco Baroni’s attempts to stabilize the squad and extract more from experienced forwards like Duván Zapata, who has been central to their attacking play. Torino’s home record remains relatively solid, and the fans at the Stadio Olimpico Grande Torino will expect a response after recent setbacks.

Cremonese, on the other hand, have shown resilience in recent weeks, picking up valuable points that have kept them mid-table. Their victory over Empoli in late November was a statement of intent, while a narrow loss to Roma demonstrated their ability to compete against stronger opposition. In October, they managed a gritty draw against Bologna, underlining their defensive organization and tactical discipline. News surrounding Cremonese has highlighted their steady improvement under coach Giovanni Stroppa, with the team climbing to 11th place in the standings. The squad’s balance between experienced campaigners and emerging talents has given them a competitive edge, and their away performances have been marked by determination even when results have not always gone their way.

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Groningen’s return to the Eredivisie has been one of the most talked-about stories in Dutch football over the past two months. After securing promotion, the club has been busy strengthening its squad, with recent news highlighting the arrival of young talents and the extension of contracts for key players. Groningen’s management has emphasized stability and growth, aiming to avoid the struggles that led to their relegation two seasons ago. In November, Groningen played a spirited match against NEC Nijmegen, securing a 2-1 victory that showcased their resilience. They followed it up with a hard-fought draw against Fortuna Sittard, where their defensive organization was tested but held firm. These performances have given fans optimism that the team can establish itself again as a competitive force in the Eredivisie.

FC Volendam, meanwhile, has been battling to climb out of the lower half of the table, and the past two months have been turbulent for them. News broke in October that the club’s management was considering changes in the coaching staff due to inconsistent results, though they ultimately decided to back their current manager. Volendam’s recent matches have been a mixed bag: they suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat against PSV Eindhoven, which exposed their defensive frailties, but bounced back with a narrow 2-1 win over Excelsior. In their most recent outing, Volendam drew 1-1 with Heerenveen, a match that highlighted both their attacking potential and their inability to close games out. The team’s supporters remain hopeful, but the pressure is mounting as they look to secure points against stronger opponents.

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PSV Eindhoven enter their clash with Heracles Almelo riding a wave of confidence that has been building steadily over the past two months. The Dutch giants stunned Europe with a remarkable 4-1 victory away at Liverpool in late November, a result that showcased their attacking flair and tactical discipline. Domestically, PSV remain dominant at the top of the Eredivisie, having recently defeated Heerenveen 2-0 on December 6, with goals from Joey Veerman and Ricardo Pepi. Their consistency under Peter Bosz has been remarkable, with the team winning 13 of their first 15 league matches, scoring freely and conceding very few. The squad’s depth and balance have allowed them to rotate effectively between Eredivisie and Champions League commitments, and the upcoming fixture against Heracles is another opportunity to underline their superiority.

Heracles Almelo, by contrast, have endured a more turbulent period in the Eredivisie. Their most recent outing ended in a 1-1 draw against Telstar on December 6, with Ivan Mesik scoring late to salvage a point. This result followed a string of mixed performances, including defeats and narrow wins that have kept them hovering near the lower end of the table. Despite flashes of resilience, Heracles have struggled to maintain consistency, often conceding goals in crucial moments. The team’s defensive frailties have been exposed repeatedly, and while their attack has shown occasional promise, it has not been enough to offset their vulnerabilities. The upcoming match against PSV represents a daunting challenge, especially given the gulf in form and confidence between the two sides.

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PEC Zwolle enter this clash with Fortuna Sittard at the MAC³PARK Stadion after a turbulent but improving run of form. In late November, Zwolle managed a morale-boosting 2-1 victory over Heerenveen, which followed a 2-2 draw away at Groningen and a narrow 1-0 win against Sparta Rotterdam. However, their cup journey ended on December 3rd with a 1-3 defeat to AZ Alkmaar, showing the squad still struggles against top-tier opposition. Off the pitch, Zwolle recently presented their annual report, highlighting financial stability despite operational losses, and the club also held a memorial match to honor deceased supporters. These developments have added emotional weight to their December fixtures, making this encounter with Sittard more than just another league game.

Fortuna Sittard, meanwhile, arrive with mixed fortunes. Their most recent Eredivisie outing saw them fall 1-3 at home to Ajax on December 6th, despite Kaj Sierhuis giving them an early lead. Prior to that, they drew 1-1 with Heracles Almelo and also shared points in a 1-1 stalemate against Sparta Rotterdam. A brighter moment came on November 8th when they defeated Heerenveen 2-0, showcasing their ability to capitalize on home advantage. News around the club has focused on their resilience despite disciplinary issues, such as Justin Hubner’s red card against Ajax, and their upcoming KNVB Beker tie against Almere City later in December. Coach Danny Buijs has emphasized consistency, but Fortuna’s defensive lapses remain a concern.

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The upcoming clash between Nacional and Tondela in Liga Portugal has drawn attention not only because of their positions in the table but also due to the narratives surrounding both clubs in recent weeks. Nacional, currently hovering around mid-table, has been trying to stabilize after a tough run of fixtures. In late November, they faced Benfica and fell 1-2, a result that highlighted their defensive vulnerabilities but also showed flashes of attacking promise. Earlier in December, Nacional traveled to Alverca and secured a narrow 1-0 victory, which gave them a much-needed boost heading into this fixture. The team’s coach Tiago Margarido has emphasized the importance of home advantage at Estádio da Madeira, where the fans have been vocal in their support despite inconsistent performances. The news around the club has also focused on their resilience, with pundits noting that Nacional’s younger players are beginning to step up in crucial moments.

Tondela, on the other hand, has endured a turbulent period in the past two months, with results swinging between disappointment and relief. In early November, they drew 2-2 against AVS, showing attacking intent but defensive lapses. A week later, they lost 0-1 at home to Vitória Guimarães, which compounded their struggles. Their Taça de Portugal campaign ended in heartbreak when they were eliminated by Caldas on penalties after a goalless draw. However, Tondela bounced back with a gritty 1-0 away win against Gil Vicente at the end of November, a result that lifted spirits in the camp. Most recently, they faced FC Porto on December 7 and suffered a 0-2 defeat, a match where they were largely outplayed but still managed to create a few chances. The team’s manager Cristiano Bacci has been under pressure, but he insists that the squad is capable of turning things around with discipline and focus.

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Academico Viseu enter this clash with confidence after a strong run of results in recent weeks. In November, they held AVS Futebol SAD to a goalless draw in the Taca de Portugal, but quickly bounced back with impressive league victories. They defeated Felgueiras 1932 away by 3-1, overcame Lusitania Lourosa 3-2 at home, and produced a stunning 5-1 win against Leixões. This sequence of matches has highlighted their attacking depth and resilience, with goals coming from multiple players rather than relying on a single striker. The club has also been in the news with Rafael Barbosa’s return to Portuguese football, a move that adds further creativity to their midfield options. With their current form, Viseu are positioning themselves as one of the most consistent sides in Liga Portugal 2.

SC Farense, on the other hand, have had a more mixed set of performances over the past two months. They managed to secure wins against lower-ranked opponents but have struggled to maintain momentum against stronger sides. Their defensive line has been under scrutiny, especially after the departure of Brazilian defender Lucas Africo, who bid farewell to the club recently after a notable stint in Portuguese football. Farense’s last five matches have included draws and narrow defeats, showing that while they remain competitive, they lack the cutting edge to consistently secure three points. Their supporters are hopeful that the team can stabilize, but the recent inconsistency has raised questions about their ability to challenge the top half of the table.

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Dundee United approach their clash with Motherwell under a cloud of inconsistency, with recent weeks highlighting both resilience and fragility. In early December, Jim Goodwin’s side battled Rangers to a spirited 2-2 draw at Tannadice, only to follow it up with a disappointing 2-0 defeat away to St Mirren. November had already exposed their defensive vulnerabilities, as Falkirk stunned them 3-0 at Tannadice, while Kilmarnock held them to a 1-1 draw. News from the past two months has been dominated by Goodwin’s calls for more “heart” in performances, alongside injury concerns for Krisztian Keresztes, who has been ruled out of key fixtures. The Tangerines remain in mid-table, but their inability to convert draws into wins has left supporters questioning whether the squad has the depth to sustain a push higher up the Premiership standings.

Motherwell, by contrast, have shown signs of momentum under Jens Berthel Askou, with December beginning brightly thanks to a commanding 3-0 victory over Livingston. Their November run was equally encouraging, with wins against Hibernian (2-0) and Kilmarnock (3-1), alongside a hard-fought 1-1 draw at Aberdeen. Even in stalemates, such as the 0-0 against Hearts and Falkirk, the Steelmen demonstrated defensive solidity that has been missing in previous campaigns. News around the club has focused on Askou’s tactical tweaks, particularly his willingness to rotate the squad to maintain energy levels, and the emergence of younger talents who have added depth to the side. With Motherwell climbing steadily in the table, optimism has returned to Fir Park, and fans are beginning to believe this team can challenge consistently for a top-six finish.

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Largely beaten by Barça at the Camp Nou 3-1, Atlético Madrid thought they were recovering from a more than sick Athletic Bilbao but even there, Atléti did not manage to win a 1-0 defeat. Two successive defeats in La Liga, we have a feeling of "déjà vu" for the Colchoneros who had started their La Liga campaign very, very badly. Fourth, the Madrilenians are 9 lengths behind FC Barcelona, ​​in control of the championship. During the week, a new match of fear awaited the partners of Antoine Griezmann, on the turf of PSV in the Champions League but in a crazy scenario, they brought back the 3 points in a 2-3 victory, putting themselves perfectly back in the race for the top 8. Let us note, however, that at home, Atlético is a real impregnable fortress. The last two defeats at the Metropolitano date back to April, against Barça twice, in the league and in the semi-final of the Copa del Rey. 6 times champion of Spain, Valencia is far from its former glory which carried it to the final of the Champions League in 2000 and 2001.

Today, the Ché club is jockeying for position in the race to remain, and has been doing so for several seasons now. The supporters must have had difficulty seeing the end of the tunnel, especially since their team has only won one of its last ten matches in the elite. Last weekend, for the reception of FC Sevilla, led for a long time, Valencia finally managed to snatch the point of the draw thanks to the excellent Duro, author of a beautiful marvel of number 9 1-1. A few days earlier, in pain, Carlos Corberan's men overcame Cartagena in the Copa del Rey victory 1-2 after extra time. In La Liga, Valencia is in 16th place, three points ahead of Girona, who played at Real Sociedad the day before. 

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Barcelona head into their clash with Osasuna at Montjuïc Olympic Stadium on December 13 with confidence riding high after a string of strong performances in LaLiga. Under Hansi Flick, the Catalan side has surged to the top of the table with 37 points, showing consistency in both attack and defense. In the past two months, Barcelona have beaten Atlético Madrid 3-1, secured a convincing 2-0 win over Real Betis, and edged past Villarreal in a tight 1-0 encounter. The team has also been buoyed by the return of key players from injury, with Pedri and Frenkie de Jong regaining fitness and adding depth to the midfield. Flick’s tactical adjustments, particularly the use of João Félix in a more fluid attacking role, have given Barcelona a sharper edge in the final third.

Osasuna, meanwhile, arrive at this fixture struggling to find rhythm, sitting 17th in the table with only 12 points. Their recent form has been mixed, with a 2-2 draw against Getafe, a narrow 1-0 defeat to Sevilla, and a morale-boosting 2-1 victory over Granada. However, they were undone by Athletic Bilbao in a 3-0 loss, highlighting defensive vulnerabilities that have plagued them throughout the season. In the past two months, coach Alessio Lisci has attempted to stabilize the squad by rotating his backline and relying on the creativity of Aimar Oroz and Chimy Ávila in attack. Despite flashes of resilience, Osasuna’s inability to consistently close out games has left them hovering dangerously close to the relegation zone.

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Getafe welcome Espanyol to the Coliseum Alfonso Pérez in mid-December for a LaLiga clash that promises to be tight and tactical. In recent weeks, Getafe have been battling inconsistency, alternating between wins and losses, which has kept them hovering around mid-table. Their last few matches included a narrow defeat against Real Sociedad and a hard-fought draw against Valencia, showing both resilience and vulnerability. Espanyol, meanwhile, have been slightly more adventurous, securing a notable victory over Athletic Bilbao before suffering a setback against Villarreal. Both teams have been in the headlines over the past two months, with Getafe focusing on squad depth issues and Espanyol dealing with injury concerns to key forwards, making this fixture particularly intriguing.

The form guide suggests neither side has managed to establish dominance in recent weeks. Getafe’s home record has been modest, with their last ten home games producing fewer than two goals in most outings, highlighting their defensive-first approach. Espanyol, on the other hand, have shown more attacking intent away from home, scoring in the majority of their recent travels, though their defensive lapses have cost them points. In November, Espanyol managed a gritty win against Celta Vigo but followed it up with a disappointing loss to Sevilla, underlining their unpredictable nature. Getafe’s November fixtures included a victory over Granada but also a frustrating defeat to Mallorca, reinforcing the sense that they remain difficult to trust for consistent results.

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Mallorca welcome Elche in a LaLiga clash that carries weight for both sides, as each has struggled to find consistent rhythm in recent weeks. The hosts have shown signs of resilience, grinding out back-to-back draws against Espanyol and Celta Vigo, while also holding Villarreal to a stalemate at Son Moix. Their defensive organization has improved, but goals remain scarce, with Vedat Muriqi often carrying the burden in attack. In the past two months, Mallorca’s focus has been on stabilizing their mid-table position, and the club has emphasized the importance of turning home draws into victories to avoid slipping closer to the relegation zone. The atmosphere around the team is cautiously optimistic, with fans hoping that their steady performances can finally translate into three points.

Elche, on the other hand, arrive with a mixed bag of results that highlight both promise and vulnerability. They managed a spirited win over Girona, showcasing attacking flair through Lucas Boyé, but defeats against Real Betis and Athletic Bilbao exposed their defensive frailties. In November, Elche’s management stressed the need for greater balance, as the team has conceded too many goals away from home. Their recent form reads inconsistently, with losses outweighing wins, yet the victory against Girona was a reminder that they can trouble opponents when their forwards find space. The past two months have also seen Elche experimenting with tactical adjustments, particularly in midfield, to reduce the gaps that opponents have exploited. Supporters remain hopeful, but the team’s away record continues to raise concerns.

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Cordoba’s clash with Eibar in LaLiga2 this December comes at a time when both clubs are navigating turbulent form and trying to stabilize their campaigns. Cordoba, who have shown flashes of resilience at home, recently endured a tough run of fixtures. In late November, they fell 1-2 to Cadiz despite dominating possession, and earlier drew 1-1 away at Granada. Their struggles were evident in the 1-3 defeat against Deportivo La Coruña, but they also managed to secure a 2-2 draw at Malaga and a convincing 2-0 home win over Ceuta. News around the club has focused on their defensive lapses and the need to tighten up at the back, while fans remain optimistic about their attacking talents like Dalisson De Almeida Leite, who has been a bright spark in recent matches. The upcoming fixture against Eibar is being billed as a test of Cordoba’s ability to convert possession into points.

Eibar, on the other hand, arrive at Estadio Nuevo Arcángel with their own set of challenges. Their November fixtures highlighted inconsistency, beginning with a 1-3 loss at Almeria and followed by a narrow 3-2 home win against Albacete. They then drew 1-1 away at Sporting Gijón, but consecutive defeats to Zaragoza (1-2) and Racing Santander (0-4) exposed vulnerabilities in their defense. News from the past two months has centered on their struggles to maintain momentum, with manager Beñat San José under pressure to find balance between attack and defense. Injuries have also played a role, with key players like Madariaga sidelined since October, further complicating their lineup options. Despite these setbacks, Eibar remain a dangerous side capable of punishing opponents on the counter.

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Real Valladolid enter this clash with a sense of renewed confidence after a turbulent but productive stretch over the past two months. Their recent league run has included a commanding 4–1 win away at Huesca, a hard‑fought 1–1 draw against Málaga, and narrow defeats to Real Sociedad B and Las Palmas. These results reflect a team that has been inconsistent but capable of explosive performances when their attacking rhythm clicks. Off the pitch, the club has been in the news for squad rotation decisions and tactical tweaks aimed at stabilizing their form as they push to stay competitive in the upper half of the table. The mood around José Zorrilla has been cautiously optimistic, with supporters encouraged by the flashes of quality shown in recent weeks.

FC Andorra, meanwhile, approach this fixture with a very different narrative. Their last two months have been marked by a string of difficult results, including losses to Almería, Castellón, and Albacete, alongside draws against Sporting Gijón and Huesca. Despite these setbacks, Andorra have shown resilience, often staying competitive deep into matches even when results have slipped away. The club has also been in the headlines due to discussions about improving defensive solidity after conceding multiple late goals in recent outings. Their recent Copa del Rey elimination against Cultural Leonesa added further pressure, but the squad remains determined to turn their season around.

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Real Zaragoza enter this clash with Cadiz CF in LaLiga2 carrying a sense of urgency after a mixed run of results in recent weeks. In November, Zaragoza announced the return of key midfielder Toni Moya from injury, which has been seen as a boost to their creativity in the middle of the park. Their recent fixtures have been inconsistent: a narrow 1-0 defeat against Sporting Gijón was followed by a hard-fought 2-2 draw with Burgos, and then a morale-boosting 1-0 victory over Racing Santander. The team has been praised for its defensive resilience but criticized for a lack of cutting edge in attack, something that has been a recurring theme throughout the season. Fans are hopeful that the squad’s balance between youth and experience can finally deliver consistent performances, especially in matches against direct rivals like Cadiz.

Cadiz CF, relegated from LaLiga earlier this year, have been adjusting to life in the second tier with mixed fortunes. In the past two months, the club made headlines by parting ways with veteran striker Álvaro Negredo, who left in October, signaling a shift toward younger attacking options. Their recent matches have shown both promise and vulnerability: a 1-1 draw against Levante highlighted their defensive organization, while a 2-0 defeat to Valladolid exposed their struggles in front of goal. However, they bounced back with a gritty 1-0 win over Eldense, showing that they can grind out results when needed. Cadiz’s supporters remain optimistic that the team can push for promotion, but the lack of consistent scoring has been a concern, especially against sides that defend deep and counter quickly.

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Well wedged in the soft underbelly of the ranking, Brentford today occupies 14th place in the Premier League with 6 points behind the last European folding seat and 6 ahead of the first relegation place. It's often all or nothing with the Bees who have won 4 of their last 8 championship matches, losing 4. After gaining the upper hand at home over relegated Burnley 3-1, they conceded expected setbacks at Arsenal 2-0 and Tottenham last weekend 2-0. Back in the elite this season, Leeds are currently 16th in the Premier League and are 2 points ahead of the red zone.

After having suffered four losses in a row, Daniel Farke's men resumed their march forward during the last two days played at home. This allowed them to get a breath of fresh air. Leeds first created a surprise by beating Chelsea 3-1 before holding Liverpool to a draw last weekend 3-3. 

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Crystal Palace is reaching an important milestone in its project and today occupies 4th place in the Premier League, 1 point ahead of 5th place. The London team hopes to go the distance in order to join the fight for the European folding seats or even for the next Champions League. Confidently, the Eagles have only lost one of their last 6 championship matches, for 4 victories and 1 draw. Beaten at home by Manchester United 1-2, they then won on the lawns of Burnley 0-1 and Fulham last weekend 1-2. Champion of England continuously from 2021 to 2024, Manchester City hopes to regain the title this season.

Trailing for a while, the Skyblues took advantage of Arsenal's recent drop in performance to get back into the race. Indeed, they are currently 2nd in the Premier League and are 2 points behind 1st place. The Citizens are at their advantage these days, as evidenced by the 5 successes gleaned during the last 6 days, for 1 defeat. After a loss to Newcastle 2-1, they in turn dominated Leeds 3-2, Fulham 4-5 and Sunderland last weekend 3-0. 

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Not at the same level as in the previous year, Nottingham Forest may have to work hard to avoid a decline this season. Authors of an alarming start to the championship, Morgan Gibbs-White's teammates have regained momentum following the arrival on the bench of Sean Dyche. Indeed, they have pocketed 3 victories in the last 5 days, for 2 defeats. This allows them to be 17th in the Premier League with 2 points ahead of the red zone. After winning at bottom side Wolverhampton 0-1, the Nottingham club fell to Everton last weekend 3-0. Eager to fight for the European seats this season, Tottenham is currently 11th in the Premier League and concedes 3 points in 5th place.

The Spurs got off to a very good start before seriously marking time with a string of 5 games without a win, 2 draws and 3 defeats. They put an end to this bad dynamic last weekend. After bringing back a good point from Newcastle 2-2, the London team got the better of Brentford 2-0. This week, Tottenham easily won against Slavia Prague in the Champions League 3-0. 

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Sunderland defied the predictions for its return to the elite and quickly distanced itself from the fight for maintenance. Indeed, the promoted team now occupies 9th place in the Premier League, 2 points behind the last European folding seat. Less irresistible in recent weeks, the Black Cats have won only one of their last 6 championship matches, for 3 draws and 2 defeats. After taking a good point from Liverpool 1-1, they were soundly beaten in the lair of Manchester City last weekend 3-0.

Behind on their progress table, Newcastle is currently 12th in the Premier League and is 1 point behind their opponent of the day. The Magpies have suffered from chronic irregularity but seem to have found the right fuel in recent weeks, as evidenced by their current series of 4 matches without defeat, 3 victories and 1 draw. Held to a draw at home by Tottenham 2-2, they otherwise won against Manchester City 2-1, Everton 1-4 and Burnley last weekend 2-1. 

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Not necessarily expected so much this season, West Ham is currently 18th in the Premier League and is 2 points behind the first non-relegation team. Despite the quality of its squad, the London team will have to work hard to avoid a decline. The recent dynamic still brings hope. Indeed, the Hammers have only lost one of their last 6 championship matches, for 2 wins and 3 draws. After losing to Liverpool 0-2, they held off Manchester United 1-1 and Brighton last weekend 1-1.

Aston Villa worried all their fans at the start of the season but quickly rectified the situation. The Birmingham-based club today occupies 3rd place in the Premier League with 3 units of spending on 1st place. Full of confidence, the Villans have pocketed 9 victories in the last 10 days, for 1 defeat. Beaten at Liverpool at the beginning of November 2-0, they then took over Bournemouth 4-0, Leeds 1-2, Wolverhampton 1-0, Brighton 3-4 and the leader Arsenal last weekend thanks to a goal scored at the very end of the game 2-1. 

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Auxerre 16th had a double blow last week. By ending a drought of 9 games without a victory, AJA doubled its victim, FC Metz 3-1, and left the bottom of the ranking. It is now 16th and a virtual play-off, with a small point ahead of Messins and above all three lengths behind the first non-relegation club. The Icaunais club held off Lyon 0-0 and Paris FC 1-1 before securing their third victory in the Championship. Opposite, Lille 4th remains successful against Paris FC 4-2, Le Havre 0-1 and Marseille 1-0.

Like this last result against a serious contender for the podium, LOSC has performed well in the race for Europe and sees the podium elude it on goal difference. Bruno Genesio's men have since been looking for a fifth victory in all competitions. They went to the Young Boys pitch in Bern on Thursday, during the Europa League league phase. 

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Lens remains the nice surprise of the first part of the season in France. Winner last week in Nantes 1-2 after crushing Monaco 1-4 and then against Strasbourg 1-0 and Angers 1-2, the Artesian club was in control of the Championship before the weekend's matches, with one point ahead of PSG. His performances over the last few weeks have been excellent, as evidenced by his 8 wins in the last 9 matches. Pierre Sage definitely took very little time to adapt to the club for his first season at the helm. His team is seeking a sixth victory in a row this Sunday.  OGC Nice's latest results speak for themselves: 7 successive defeats in all competitions, perhaps even an eighth Thursday in the Europa League against Braga.

Since the return from the November break, it has been Marseille 1-5, Lorient 3-1 and most recently Angers 0-1 who have caused the Aiglons to hit rock bottom in the Championship. This deep crisis has serious consequences for the ranking. Le Gym, although claiming a place in the top 4, was relegated to 12th position and now finds itself closer to the first relegation place than places for Europe. With 27 goals conceded in 15 days, Franck Haise's team has the third worst defense in Ligue 1. 

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Falling last Sunday in Lorient 1-0, a week after having disposed of Nantes 3-0, Olympique Lyonnais remains on alternating current to close the year. His balance sheet over the last 6 days alone illustrates this: 1 victory, 3 draws, 2 defeats. The irregularity of the Rhone club logically took it off the podium and made it 5th in the Championship, 4 points behind the top four. The form shown at the start of the season now seems a distant memory for the Lyonnais who on Thursday aimed to maintain the lead in the Europa League standings against Go Ahead Eagles. Le Havre 15th is in great difficulty as mid-season approaches.

Unable to win any of its last 5 matches, the Norman club, defeated by the big fish that are PSG 3-0 and Lille 0-1, at least broke this series of defeats last weekend, against Paris FC 0-0. A contribution, however, not sufficient to keep it away from the poorly classified. Didier Digard's HAC is the first non-relegation club, with only 3 points ahead of the virtual play-off. 

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Strasbourg traveled to Aberdeen on Thursday in the Conference League, in preparation for the 16th chapter of Ligue 1. The Alsatian club is capitalizing on this European campaign to maintain itself successfully, which it is unable to do on the Ligue 1 pitch. Defeated by Lens 1-0 and Brest 1-2 at the end of November, it began December with a third loss in a row, on the pitch of Toulouse 1-0. Liam Rosenior's players fell to eighth position before the weekend's matches, 2 lengths from the top 5. His opponent, FC Lorient, is ending the year with a bang.

Falling from Nice two weeks ago 3-1, the promoted player did it again at home against Lyon 1-0 and aims to go on to a fifth unbeaten match to reassure himself a little more in the standings. After 13th, the Merlus are ahead of the virtual barrage by 5 points but have an unfortunate tendency to concede a lot of goals. They have taken 28 in 15 days, a statistic which makes it the penultimate defense of the Championship. 

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Without real competition at its level this season, Bayern Munich maintains an unsustainable pace for all of its opponents. Vincent Kompany's men have indeed taken 37 points out of the 39 put into play this season in the Bundesliga. And since their only draw conceded at Union Berlin 2-2, the Bavarians have resumed their irresistible march forward as if nothing had happened against Freiburg 6-2, Sankt Pauli 3-1 and finally Stuttgart 0-5 last weekend. In the meantime, Harry Kane's partners also validated their ticket for the quarter-finals of the German Cup against Sankt Pauli 3-1 and they will be competing in the Champions League this week. Beaten by Arsenal the previous day 3-1, the Munich team bounced back, not without difficulty, against Sporting this week 3-1. If Bayern Munich crushes all the competition across the Rhine, we are far from being able to say the same about Mainz.

On the contrary, this team is currently experiencing a real crux this season in the Bundesliga where it brings up the rear with a very meager record of 6 points gleaned in 13 days. At the bottom of the hole, FSV has just suffered 3 defeats over the last 4 days played against Frankfurt 1-0, Hoffenheim 1-1, Friborg 4-0 and against Borussia Mönchengladbach 0-1. As a result, he finds himself relegated to 6 points from the first non-relegation place. This week, Mainz players will challenge Lech Poznan in a Conference League match. 

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This first part of the season is mixed for this Friborg team which is struggling to stand out in this German championship. With only 16 points taken in 13 days, the Black Forest club only occupies 9th place in the ranking, more behind the top 6 qualifying for Europe 6 points than ahead of the first relegation 5 points. Too irregular, the Brazilians from Brigsau won their last 2 matches at home against Sankt Pauli 2-1 and Mainz 4-0 but they were no match away against Bayern 6-2 and Heidenheim 2-1. In the meantime, they were still able to qualify for the quarter-finals of the German Cup at the expense of Darmstadt 2-0. This week, Freiburg hosted Salzburg in a poster for the 6th day of the Europa League league phase.

For its part, Borussia Dortmund was also on deck in the European Cup this week by hosting the Norwegians of Bodo/Glimt with the intention of retaining their place in the top 8 of the Champions League league phase standings. Rather serious so far in the Bundesliga, Niko Kovac's men are undefeated in the league since the Klassiker played at the end of October 2-1. Successively held by Hamburg 1-1 and Stuttgart 3-3, the BVB players were on the other hand able to win against Bayer Leverkusen 1-2 and Hoffenheim 2-0 last weekend.

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Traveling to the Bernabéu last weekend to challenge a reinvigorated Real Madrid after their success in Bilbao, Celta Vigo inflicted punishment on the Merengue by winning two goals to nothing. Vigo absolutely did not steal their victory and the two red cards from Carreras and Fran Garcia changed absolutely nothing to the merit of the Celticos, much better on the field than the Madrilenians. A very important success for Celta who had lost 2 of their last 3 previous matches in La Liga against Espanyol Barcelona 0-1 and Barça 2-4. This week, the local players hosted Bologna in the Europa League result to come. A match that was also crucial since the Galician club lost its last European performance against Ludogorets 3-2.

 For its part, Athletic Bilbao met Paris SG this week at home, results to come. In order to prepare for this meeting against the reigning European champions, the Lions simply crossed swords with Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid last week. If against Real Madrid the affair did not end well with a 3-0 defeat, the reaction was positive against the Colchoneros 1-0 victory. In La Liga, Ernesto Valverde's men have won 3 of their last 5 matches and they are finding momentum in the fight for the top 6 and European qualification. 

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Sevilla FC thought they could achieve the perfect move in Valencia last weekend, but ultimately, following an equalizing goal from Hugo Duro in the money-time, Matias Almeyda's men left with only a small point from Mestalla 1-1. It is nothing other than a third successive match without success in La Liga for the Sevillians who remained on two defeats in a row against Bétis in the Sevillian derby 0-2 and against Espanyol in Llobregat 2-1. In the ranking, the Andalusian team occupied 13th place at the start of this day. How difficult it is to acclimatize to the level of the 1st division when you haven't tasted it for more than 20 years. Real Oviedo are penultimate in the elite but they still have the merit of defending themselves by displaying some nice football. But this is not enough to amass results and it is clear that the truth of both surfaces hurts the promoted.

Last weekend, the Carbayones continued an unsuccessful 8th day of the championship by being held to a draw at home by Mallorca 0-0. Note that Oviedo finished the match 9 against 11. On the road, Oviedo suffered two defeats against Athletic Bilbao 1-0 and Atlético Madrid 2-0. Real Oviedo has only lost one match by a margin of 3 goals or more, it was during J2 at home against Real Madrid 0-3. 

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