Tottenham vs Hull City

Tottenham and Hull City will clash for the second time in four days, with the two sides vying for victory in the Capital One Cup.

Andre Villas-Boas' charges secured a 1-0 triumph over Hull in Sunday's Premier League encounter, and Spurs will once again welcome Steve Bruce's side to White Hart Lane on Wednesday.

Tottenham's weekend victory came in debatable circumstances, as referee Michael Oliver awarded a penalty against Ahmed Elmohamady for handball.

The decision appeared a harsh one, with the Egyptian seemingly unintentionally using his arm to block Jan Vertonghen's cross.

Spain international Roberto Soldado duly converted the spot kick - his third from 12 yards already this season - as Spurs secured back-to-back top-flight victories, much to the chagrin of Bruce.

The fixture with Hull is the hosts' third in the space of just seven days, meaning Villas-Boas could rotate his squad with the likes of Erik Lamela coming into contention.

The former Roma midfielder has yet to start a Premier League game for the club, and Villas-Boas admits he is looking for the 21-year-old to stake his claim for a starting spot.

"With Erik it was a little bit more difficult but we have given him massive, massive help and his family arrived this week," he said.

"He knows he isn't producing half of what he can produce but he understands the situation now is that he has to compete for his place."

The game is likely to come too soon for Etienne Capoue, despite his return to training from an ankle injury, while Danny Rose is out with a similar problem, but Andros Townsend is not expected to be sidelined after he fell into a photographer's pit on Sunday, injuring his wrist in the process.

Hull, meanwhile, have been in good form upon their return to the top flight, with Bruce's side taking 11 points from nine games, and moving to 10th place in the Premier League.

But Sunday's reverse means they have gone three games without a league victory, including losses in their last two matches.

Hull head into the match with an extensive injury list that includes goalkeeper Allan McGregor [thigh], defenders James Chester [hamstring] and Abdoulaye Faye [knock] and forwards Sone Aluko [calf] and Danny Graham [hamstring].

Tottenham defeated Aston Villa in the previous stage, while Hull have seen off challenges from Leyton Orient and Huddersfield Town to make round four.

Real Madrid vs Sevilla

Real Madrid have the chance to get back to winning ways in La Liga on Wednesday when they welcome Sevilla to the Bernabeu.

Los Blancos lost more ground on leaders Barcelona last weekend as they lost 2-1 to their arch rivals at the Camp Nou.

That result saw Carlo Ancelotti's side fall six points behind Barca in the table with 10 matches played.

Meanwhile, a second consecutive victory for Sevilla could see the visitors move into the top half of the standings.

Madrid, who are still without Xabi Alonso, have no fresh injury concerns ahead of the match.

Juan Cala is available again for the away side after serving a suspension, while Marko Marin, Federico Fazio and Stephane Mbia are likely to miss out.

Recent form:

Madrid: LWWWWL
Sevilla: DWWDDW

Possible lineups:

Madrid: Lopez; Ramos, Pepe, Varane, Marcelo; Khedira, Modric, Isco; Bale, Benzema, Ronaldo

Sevilla: Beto; Figueiras, Carrico, Pareja, Moreno; Jairo, Cristoforo, Rakitic, Vitolo; Bacca, Gameiro

Chelsea vs Manchester City

Some have suggested that this Sunday's encounter is between the two clubs likely to challenge for the Premier League title this season - Chelsea and Manchester City.

Despite their prospects for the campaign, Blues boss Jose Mourinho has played down the importance of the contest at Stamford Bridge this early in the season.

However, with just one point between them in the league table, either side can put pressure on leaders Arsenal if they grab all three points this weekend.

Despite both clubs being tipped to challenge for the title, neither side has dominated the league from their first eight matches of the campaign, with Chelsea and City sharing the top four with Arsenal and Liverpool.

Mourinho's men can grab their third-straight win in the league if they defeat City on home turf, while Manuel Pellegrini could guide his side to second above Liverpool and Chelsea with three points.

This fixture last season produced a goal-fest at Stamford Bridge, with City clinching the match 5-3, but both clubs were under the leadership of different managers at the time.

Chelsea are expected to welcome back Ashley Cole into the fold following three weeks out with a rib injury, while City remain without captain Vincent Kompany as the defender continues to recover from a thigh problem.

Recent form

Chelsea: DLWDWW

Manchester City: WDWLWW

Possible starting lineups

Chelsea: Cech; Ivanovic, Luiz, Terry, Cole; Ramires, Lampard; Willian, Mata, Hazard; Torres

Manchester City: Hart; Richards, Garcia, Nastasic, Clichy; Toure, Fernandinho; Nasri, Aguero, Silva; Negredo

Perth Glory vs. Melbourne Heart

Head-to-head:
Played: 10, Wins: Glory 4, Heart 3, Draws: 3

Previous encounter:
Heart 2-0 Glory, February 9 2013

Form:
Past five matches:

Glory: DLWWW
Heart: DDWLD

The Game:
Both the Heart and the Glory need a win to kick-start their season at nib Stadium, but the hosts have more to lose after their sluggish start to the campaign. Alistair Edwards' men played out a disappointing 0-0 draw in Newcastle after losing 3-1 to Adelaide in the opening round. A return to Perth is a welcome relief, especially against a side perhaps still hurting after giving up a two-goal lead in the previous round. John Aloisi's Heart led Central Coast 2-0 before a pair of Marcos Flores penalties helped the Mariners secure a fortunate point at AAMI Park. Heart held city rivals Victory to a scoreless draw in the opening round but will be eager to get a win ahead of tough matches against Brisbane and Western Sydney.

The big issue:
Glory – finding goals without injured star striker Shane Smeltz continues to be an issue for Perth. They managed one through Ryo Nagai in Adelaide but struggled against the Jets, with the trip to Hunter Stadium a winnable affair they failed to take advantage of. Nagai and Sidnei look dangerous while Jamie Maclaren needs to do more up front. Perhaps including teenager Daniel De Silva in the starting line-up may be what the Glory need.

Heart – Aloisi's men are finally put to the test interstate this season. It was their record outside Victoria last season which proved costly. Outside of their home state last season, the Heart played out a draw and remarkably tasted defeat 11 times. That record may improve courtesy of their counter-attacking style, which appears the way Aloisi intends to play regularly. Sitting back and using their pace on the break could suit Heart against a Glory side who like to keep possession.

The game breaker:
David Williams – the Heart speedster scored a brace against the Mariners and probably should have had a hat-trick. Replacing Harry Kewell behind the striker, Williams impressed and is one of several Heart attackers suited by their counter-attacking style. Malta international Michael Mifsud appears likely to start up front and that pace, as well as Williams' energy, has the Heart well-placed to end their dreadful away record.

Prediction: Glory 0-1 Heart
The Heart are yet to concede from anywhere but the penalty spot this season and Aloisi's new set up should make them difficult to break down again. Rob Wielaert and Patrick Kisnorbo have combined well in the centre of defence, while Aziz Behich has been solid at left-back and Jason Hoffman better than most expected on the right. Without Smeltz, Perth have found it difficult to score despite Sidnei impressing. A goal may be all that separates these two teams and Heart may well find it on the break to claim their first win outside Victoria since December 2011.

Wellington Phoenix vs. Newcastle Jets

Head-to-head: Played: 19, Wins: Wellington 12, Newcastle 5, Draws: 2
Previous encounter: Wellington 1-2 Newcastle, February 27, 2013
Form: Past five matches (including pre-season):
Phoenix: DLLWL Jets: DLLDL
The Game: The Nix defied the odds to come from behind and snare a point on their trip to Western Sydney last weekend, in a promising sign in the infancy of Ernie Merrick's reign. Now back on home turf, they welcome a fairly listless Newcastle Jets side to town - who have not troubled the scorers in 180 minutes and are the only side yet to score in the league. A potential saviour for that stat - Emile Heskey - remains sidelined by a knee injury. Merrick made four changes from round one to two, with Glen Moss, Leo Bertos, Andrew Durante and Jeremy Brockie - the latter the goalscorer versus Wanderers - all coming in to help Wellington improve from their last-gasp 2-1 loss to Brisbane. It will be interesting to see how Belgian Stein Huysegems is used against the Jets, after he was withdrawn after just 30 minutes in Parramatta for tactical reasons.
The youthful Jets outfit have been poor in their two games thus far - with a 2-0 loss to Sydney made worse by the fact the Sky Blues were routed by Brisbane 4-0 a week later. Gary van Egmond's men need to find a pathway to goal, and fast, if they are to be any realistic finals threat in 2013-14.
The big issue:Wellington - winning. The New Zealand club have won just 32 of their past 88 matches, with just seven successes from 27 matches last season. Sure, 86 of those matches were under former boss Ricki Herbert but a maiden victory for Merrick would go a long way to setting the winning standard this season.
Newcastle - goals. They have enough talent to put balls in dangerous areas, but they just need the right finisher. They can't rely on Heskey to score the lot this campaign.
The game breaker:Carlos Hernandez - the Costa Rican showman finds himself in good fitness and form in the infancy of the season. The former Victory man is yet to find the back of the net, but could find some space around the edge of the area in Napier to rifle home his first in black and yellow.
Prediction: Wellington 3-0 Newcastle The Jets have not troubled the scorer this season, and it is hard to see how they will do so at a venue they have never before played at. It is hard for good teams to come away from NZ with three points - see Brisbane's late show in round one - let alone a team bereft of experience and confidence. Merrick's men should have a flurry of sights on goal, and just need to be clinical to hand their fans in Napier a comfortable victory.

WWE Hell in a Cell 2013

Randy Orton vs. Daniel Bryan (WWE Championship in Hell in a Cell)
Curtis Axel (c) vs. Big E Langston (Intercontinental Championship)
Los Matadores vs. The Real Americans
AJ Lee (c) vs. Brie Bella (Divas Championship)
Cody Rhodes and Goldust (c) vs. The Shield vs. The Usos (Tag Team Championship)
CM Punk vs. Ryback and Paul Heyman (Hell in a Cell)
Alberto Del Rio (c) vs. John Cena (World Heavyweight Championship)


This Sunday, it's time for WWE Hell in a Cell, which features two matches that will take place inside the most imposing structure in pro wrestling, the titular Cell. Finally, the fate of the WWE Title will be decided, as Daniel Bryan will take on Randy Orton in the Cell, with special referee Shawn Michaels guaranteeing that the match will not end without a new champion being crowned. In addition, CM Punk has his best chance ever to exact revenge on Paul Heyman, as he faces his former manager and Ryback, also in Hell in a Cell.

Meanwhile, John Cena will return from another major injury and jump right into the title picture, as he'll challenge Alberto Del Rio for the World Heavyweight Title. Also, the Divas title, Tag Team Championships, and the Intercontinental title will all be defended on the card.

Twice will rivals enter "The Devil's Playground" looking to use as violent a retribution as is allowed in the PG era. A Hall of Famer will oversee a Hell in a Cell match between Randy Orton and Daniel Bryan for the vacant WWE Championship while CM Punk will look to maim Paul Heyman in another.

A strong undercard promises an exciting show beyond those matches, including a Triple Threat match that threatens to steal the show.

RANDY ORTON VS. DANIEL BRYAN

Certainly a big focus of this match will be Shawn Michaels as guest referee. Will he align himself with Triple H/Randy Orton, or will he call it down the middle? Unless we foresee The Heartbreak Kid being involved with WWE regularly — in which case, a Triple H reunion makes sense — I see this one being called down the middle and Daniel Bryan finally getting his hands on the title for longer than a day. WWE thrives on moments, and this scenario lends itself to Shawn Michaels celebrating with Daniel Bryan postmatch. I feel like the Cell has a finality to it, like there must be a conclusion.

WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE: ALBERTO DEL RIO VS. JOHN CENA

I like John Cena returning and facing Del Rio for the world title. Cena's involvement with the WHC is a big deal, seeing as how he's the face of the company. The scenario I like best: Cena winning, Del Rio getting mad and applying the Cross Armbreaker to reinjure Cena, allowing Damien Sandow to cash in and win the title. Cena and Sandow would be fresh, interesting and a chance for Sandow to prove he can hang, which many people believe he can. Plus, I have an interview with Sandow scheduled next week, and I'd much rather interview a champion who just beat John Cena.

HELL IN A CELL: CM PUNK VS. RYBACK AND PAUL HEYMAN

I'll admit, I have lost a little interest in this scenario, but not because I don't appreciate the participants. I suppose I have fatigue over this rivalry, so I really hope CM Punk wins, gets the big attack everyone wants to see on Heyman, and we all move on.

DIVAS CHAMPIONSHIP: AJ LEE VS. BRIE BELLA

I honestly believe that a "Total Divas" episode will feature a cast member winning the Divas title — more specifically, Brie Bella dethroning AJ Lee. I'm expecting it to happen here, and getting the all-access view of it on "Total Divas" in the future.

TAG TITLES: TEAM RHODES VS. THE SHIELD VS. THE USOS

To me, this is a great way to have the Usos win the title without Team Rhodes getting pinned, allowing the Usos to continue a rivalry with The Shield and the next tag team in line. (Real Americans, perhaps?). Looking at the scenario logically, I feel the Rhodes brothers winning the tag gold was more about making the Shield look weak than making Team Rhodes champions. This was acccomplished and done very well. Now, if the Usos were to become champions without the Rhodes team getting pinned and looking weak, this is another win. The Usos certainly would make the tag title a priority and (hopefully) defend it regularly. Give me Usos over the Shield to win the gold.

LOS MATADORES VS. THE REAL AMERICANS

I've called this for a while, and I'm calling it again: Antonio Cesaro will give a Giant Swing to both members of Los Matadores, maybe even El Torito on top. The Real Americans win, then challenge the Usos for the tag titles.

INTERCONTINENTAL TITLE: CURTIS AXEL VS. BIG E LANGSTON

Big E is due for a championship run after being NXT champion. Axel just isn't meshing to me as IC champ, despite his lineage. It might be time for fresh blood, but I also don't see every secondary title switching hands. Axel retains.

Central Coast Mariners vs Adelaide United

After two draws to begin their campaign, the Central Coast Mariners return to Bluetongue Stadium to host Adelaide United this afternoon. We’ll have live scores and commentary from 5.30pm AEDT.

Central Coast come into this game after making both Western Sydney and Melbourne Heart look like quality football teams.

Pasfield’s beard is the only real highlight of their first two games, after fighting for a draw against the Wanderers and an extremely lucky comeback against Melbourne Heart, Central Coast will be looking to this Saturday as opportunity to post their first win.

The Mariners will be wearing bright pink kits in support of Pink Ribbon Day.

Adelaide has radically changed their game plan this season, however no-one from Barcelona will be filing for obstructions of copyright.

Gombau’s side are possibly the most exciting team to watch; similar to Brisbane and Melbourne in their build up play, but also because their defenders’ acute awareness to always find the opposition forwards.

Some one would pass it off as growing pains for the Radelaideans, but if it continues much longer, will become a chronic disease.

Osama Malik was converted into a defender last week, and looked every bit out of place as Victory streamed forward.

Awer Mabil frustrated both the Melbourne Victory’s defence and his own manager as he sought to go one-on-one too often.

Expect him not to start, but if they’re chasing the game, don’t be surprised if he’s brought on to be brought down in the box by Nick Montgomery.

To the workhorse Central Coast midfielder, he’ll either be sent to the doggers by Adelaide’s passing style, or like the outside favourite at Lockhart Race 3, will knock off Adelaide’s jockeying midfielders causing either serious injury or a yellow card.

Either way, he’s some kind of equine, and I’m still trying to work out if he’s a horse or a donkey.

Adelaide welcomes back Isaias and Nigel Boogaard from suspension, however Daniel Bowles is not expected to play.

The Mariners are expected to have a full squad, save for Daniel McBreen whose loan spell/money earner at Shanghai SIPG does not end until the 31st of October.

The last time these teams played was on March 24 earlier this year, the result was Adelaide United 0-2 Central Coast Mariners.

Central Coast are set to play on their third Saturday in a row, while Adelaide are still yet to play on the same day twice, which is good because it would be a fixture list and squad nightmare.

Adelaide has four players in the top ten for yellow cards after two games, while the Central Coast, like a tourism guide to Australia, do not feature.

Central Coast Mariners have not had a win in their last five matches.

Adelaide United have not beaten the Mariners in the last 11 matches between the two teams.

The last time Adelaide United won when playing away to Central Coast Mariners was all the way back in January 2009, when they pinched a 1-0 victory.

UFC Fight Night 30

Main Card

    * Lyoto Machida vs. Mark Munoz
    * Melvin Guillard vs. Ross Pearson
    * Jimi Manuwa vs. Ryan Jimmo
    * Norman Parke vs. Jon Tuck
    * Alessio Sakara vs. Nicholas Musoke
    * Phil Harris vs. John Lineker


Preliminary Card

    * Al Iaquinta vs. Piotr Hallman
    * Andrew Craig vs. Luke Barnatt
    * Rosi Sexton vs. Jessica Andrade
    * Andy Ogle vs. Cole Miller
    * Jimy Hettes vs. Rob Whiteford
    * Brad Scott vs. Michael Kuiper



Former light heavyweight champion Lyoto Machida makes his middleweight debut on Saturday night in Manchester where he faces recent training partner Mark Munoz.

The UFC Fight Night 30 main event became official on Friday when the participants made weight. Munoz stepped on the scale first and weighed 186 pounds. Machida weighed 185.

"It was very hard [cutting to 185], but I did this for four weeks," Machida said "It's tough to face my friend Mark Munoz, but we are professional.

"The winner buys dinner. I will buy the dinner."

Machida and Munoz accepted a late offer from UFC officials just two days after training together. Each fighter was preparing to face other opponents - Machida was in line to meet Tim Kennedy in a November 6 light heavyweight bout. Munoz was originally set to take on Michael Bisping on Saturday.

While they were both initially reluctant to fight one another, they eventually agreed.

Machida will seek to rebound from an August 3 unanimous-decision loss to Phil Davis at UFC 163.

Munoz eyes his second win in a row - he dominated Tim Boetsch in July en route to a unanimous decision.

Lightweights Melvin Guillard and Ross Pearson weighed 155 and 156, respectively, for their co-main event showdown.

Pearson returns from featherweight to the 155-pound division where he seeks to extend his win streak to three. Guillard eyes his second win in a row.

With the exception of flyweight John Lineker, every other fighter on the card made weight. Lineker, who has had difficulty making the 125-pound limit in recent bouts, tipped the scale at 128 - two pounds above the nontitle flyweight limit. His opponent, Phil Harris, weighed 125.

Lineker was given an hour to cut the weight, but opted not to accept the offer. He will relinquish 25 per cent of his purse.

England vs Australia

England will be out to provide the perfect response to a tumultuous week when they take on Australia in the World Cup opener at the Millennium Stadium on Saturday.

Steve McNamara's side have had far from the ideal build up to the tournament having lost their warm-up match against Italy last weekend.

The disruption continued during the week as Gareth Hock was omitted from the squad after reportedly failing to turn up for a training camp.

James Graham has now been left out of the 19-man squad for the clash with the Kangaroos amid speculation he was one of a number of players to defy a ban on alcohol.

McNamara refused to address any of the reports when he walked out of a press conference on the eve of the tournament, and a heavy defeat on Saturday will only serve to increase the pressure on the coach.

He has named the three Burgess brothers in his 19-man squad while Brett Ferres, who was drafted in as a replacement for Hock on Tuesday, is also included.

Uncapped second rower Liam Farrell makes the 19 but his Wigan team-mate Sean O'Loughlin has been ruled out after he failed to recover from injury.

Australia have included Brent Tate in the centres as he has edged out Michael Jennings for the starting spot in place of the injured Justin Hodges.

Robbie Farah is named on the bench with Sheens having a definite game plan for using the Wests Tigers hooker to target the big England forwards later in the game, with Cameron Smith then likely switching to loose forward.

England squad: Ablett, G Burgess, S Burgess, T Burgess, Burrow, Charnley, Chase, Cudjoe, Farrell, Ferres, Hall, Hill, Mossop, Roby, Sinfield (capt), Tomkins, Watkins, Westwood, Widdop.

Australia: Slater, Morris, Tate, Inglis, Boyd, Thurston, Cronk, Scott, Smith (capt), Tamou, Bird, Thaiday, Gallen.

Interchange: (from) Robbie Farah, Andrew Fifita, Luke Lewis, Corey Parker, Jarryd Hayne, Nate Myles.

Manchester United vs Stoke City

Manchester United will be looking to build on their Champions League success in midweek when Stoke City visit Old Trafford on Saturday.

David Moyes's side edged past Real Sociedad on Wednesday evening to remain top of their group.

However, last Saturday's 1-1 draw with Southampton means that the Red Devils currently sit eighth in the Premier League table.

Stoke ended a run of three consecutive defeats last weekend when they drew with West Bromwich Albion.

Mark Hughes's team have not tasted victory in the league since a 1-0 success over West Ham United at the end of August.

United striker Robin van Persie missed the midweek clash against Real Sociedad with a toe injury but could be fit enough to face the Potters. Jonny Evans and Phil Jones are set to continue their partnership in the centre of defence while Marouane Fellaini is in line to start.

For Stoke, Geoff Cameron remains doubtful for the match as he continues to recover from a calf injury, so Andy Wilkinson could deputise at full-back.

Oussama Assaidi, Marko Arnautovic and Jonathan Walters are expected to be handed starts by manager Hughes.

Recent form

Man Utd: LWLLWD

Stoke: WDLLLD

Possible starting lineups

Man Utd: De Gea; Rafael, Jones, Evans, Evra; Nani, Fellaini, Carrick, Young; van Persie, Rooney

Stoke: Begovic; Pieters, Huth, Shawcross, Cameron; Assaidi, Ireland, N'Zonzi, Adam, Arnautovic; Walters

Barcelona vs Real Madrid

The El Clasico between Barcelona and Real Madrid is one of the biggest matches of the football calendar, and the first explosive encounter gets underway at Camp Nou this Saturday.

All eyes will be on the two players deemed the greatest in the world at this present time - Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, but focus will also be on summer signings Neymar and Gareth Bale, who moved to Barca and Madrid respectively for hefty fees.

Despite Bale's highly anticipated arrival at the Bernabeu following his £85m switch from Tottenham Hotspur, the Welshman has had an inconsistent start to his career in Spain due to injury.

The 24-year-old made an appearance from the substitutes' bench in Madrid's 2-1 victory over Juventus in the Champions League on Wednesday, but is unlikely to start in this weekend's clash due to lack of match fitness.

While plenty of focus will be on the players, this is the first El Clasico for Barca boss Gerardo Martino and Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti, who has led his side to third in the league table after nine fixtures.

Barcelona remain La Liga leaders with an unbeaten record and 28 goals to their name so far, while their arch-rivals have lost once in their campaign so far.

Madrid secured last season's El Clasico 2-1 on home turf, as well as clinching a 3-1 victory at Camp Nou.

Ronaldo could be joined by Angel di Maria and Isco in attack, leaving Luka Modric on the bench, while both Alvaro Morata and Karim Benzema will be fighting for starting spots.

Messi is likely to feature for Barcelona in the encounter following his first start since returning from injury against AC Milan in the Champions League in midweek.

Recent form

Barcelona: WWWWWD

Real Madrid: DWWLWW

Possible starting lineups

Barcelona: Valdes; Alves, Pique, Mascherano, Adriano; Sergio, Xavi, Iniesta; Sanchez, Neymar, Messi

Real Madrid: Lopez; Pepe, Ramos, Marcelo, Carvajal; Khedira, Illarramendi; Ronaldo, Di Maria, Isco; Benzema

Liverpool vs West Brom

Liverpool return to Anfield this weekend in a bid to keep their position in the top four in the Premier League table by grabbing maximum points from West Bromwich Albion.

Manager Brendan Rodgers will welcome former Liverpool assistant boss Steve Clarke to Merseyside this weekend when his side, who currently sit third in the table and two points adrift of leaders Arsenal, go up against the Baggies.

Despite having both strikers Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge in scoring form, the Reds could only salvage a 2-2 draw against Newcastle United last week, while West Brom failed to break the deadlock in a goalless draw with Stoke City.

The 12th-placed Baggies had success in this fixture last season, thanks to a single goal from Peter Odemwingie, who left The Hawthorns for Cardiff City this summer, but Clarke's men have only snatched one victory away from home so far this season.

While this game has come too soon for the return of midfielder Philippe Coutinho, Rodgers is expected to have Lucas Leiva available for selection after he missed last weekend's encounter due to the birth of his daughter.

For West Brom, Victor Anichebe, who previously played for Liverpool's local rivals Everton, is likely to lead the line for the visitors.

Recent form

Liverpool: WDLWWD

West Bromwich Albion: LDWWDD

Possible starting lineups

Liverpool: Mignolet; Toure, Skrtel, Sakho; Johnson, Lucas, Gerrard, Cissokho; Moses; Suarez, Sturridge

West Bromwich Albion: Myhill; Jones, McAuley, Olsson, Ridgewell; Amalfitano, Yacob, Sessgnon, Mulumbu, Berahino; Anichebe

Crystal Palace vs Arsenal

Crystal Palace will begin a new era without manager Ian Holloway against Premier League leaders Arsenal at Selhurst Park this weekend.

The Eagles are yet to appoint a new manager following the departure of Holloway, who admitted that he had tried to make too many changes ahead of the club's return to the top flight.

For the time being, Palace will be under the leadership of Holloway's former assistant Keith Millen, but rumours are rife that ex-Stoke City manager Tony Pulis could be the next man in the hotseat.

Going through such a transition is not ideal for Palace, who will have to face in-form Arsenal after securing just one victory out of eight league fixtures in the campaign.

In contrast, Arsene Wenger's Gunners side are at the top of the table having remained unbeaten in their last seven fixtures, their latest being a 4-1 win over Norwich City.

In the five times that these two sides have played against each other, Arsenal have come out on top three times, while Palace have not grabbed one victory over the North London outfit.

Palace are likely to stick with Marouane Chamakh and Dwight Gayle up front, while Jack Wilshere could miss out for the Gunners after suffering a knock in their 2-1 defeat to Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League on Tuesday.

Recent form

Crystal Palace: WLLLLL

Arsenal: WWWWDW

Possible starting lineups

Crystal Palace: Speroni; Ward, Mariappa, Delaney, Moxey; Jedinak, Dikgacoi, Campana, O'Keefe; Chamakh, Gayle

Arsenal: Szczesny; Sagna, Mertesacker, Koscielny, Gibbs; Arteta, Ramsey, Ozil; Cazorla, Flamini; Giroud

Sydney FC vs Western Sydney

Head-to-head:
Played 3: Wins: Sydney 1, Wanderers 1, Draws: 1

Previous encounter:
Wanderers 1-1 Sydney FC, March 23, 2013

Form:
Past five matches:

Sydney FC: LLLWL
Wanderers: DLWDD

The Game:
The first Sydney derby of the new season comes at a time when both sides are desperate to get the three points – and local bragging rights – but for differing reasons. The Sky Blues were taught a footballing lesson by a rampant Brisbane last weekend and they had no answer to the Roar's quick passing and movement. They will need an immediate response to the 4-0 drubbing to prove it was simply an aberration and not a sign of things to come this season. The Wanderers on the other hand have shown encouraging signs over the first fortnight of the campaign. But despite their good play Tony Popovic's side haven't been able to turn that promise into a victory, with only two 1-1 draws to show from the first two games.

Sydney are sweating on the fitness of skipper Alessandro Del Piero, who suffered a calf strain against the Roar. Sky Blues coach Frank Farina is unlikely to take any unnecessary risks with his marquee man given it's so early in the season. Pacy striker Yairo Yau is available again after international duty with Panama. Aaron Mooy (concussion) is the only injury worry for the Wanderers after his heavy head knock against the Phoenix last weekend. Socceroos defender Matthew Spiranovic is also nearing full fitness and could win a spot on the bench.

The big issue:
Sydney – While the Sky Blues players have been quick to play it down, there's no doubt they dropped their bundle when Del Piero went off injured early in the clash with the Roar. With the score 0-0 at the time, Sydney suddenly lost any attacking thrust and confidence, with the home side banging in three goals before the break to put the result beyond doubt. If Sydney are to be successful this season, Farina will need to find a way for his side to cope without the veteran striker, who turns 39 next month.

Wanderers – Western Sydney made a brilliant start to the game against Wellington last weekend and could have had the game out of sight inside the first 20 minutes. But there's no doubt they lost some of their spark when they lost Mooy to injury. The young midfielder's passing and work-rate is crucial alongside Mateo Poljak in the heart of midfield. While Iacopo La Rocca fills in admirably when called upon, he doesn't have the creativity that Mooy possesses which makes the Wanderers a lot more predictable.

The game breaker:
Shinji Ono – The Japanese star has yet to hit his straps this season, coming off the bench in the season-opener before getting through just over an hour last weekend. Ono is getting closer to full fitness and the Wanderers will need his creativity and experience if they are to notch their first win. The 34-year-old attacking midfielder puts the polish on most of the Wanderers' attacking thrusts and has a habit of delivering in the big games – which could spell trouble for the Sky Blues.

Prediction: Sydney 1-1 Wanderers
The three derbies last year were split evenly and despite Sydney's heavy loss last weekend expect another tight and tense encounter here in what should be a record regular season Sydney crowd. Much will depend on whether Del Piero's ageing legs will recover in time to lead out the Sky Blues. If he can somehow get on the field the Sky Blues may even start slight favourites. But they will need to be a lot stronger in defence especially with Ono, Juric, Mark Bridge and Youssouf Hersi threatening to hit top gear. The Wanderers certainly won't be overawed by the occasion and were victorious in their only clash at Allianz between the two sides last season.

Bayern Munich vs Hertha Berlin

Bayern Munich will remain top of the Bundesliga if they can defeat Hertha Berlin when the two sides meet on Saturday.

Bayern are unbeaten in the league since the arrival of manager Pep Guardiola, having won seven and drawn two of their nine matches.

The Bavarian side ran out 4-1 winners over Mainz 05 last weekend before thrashing Viktoria Plzen in the Champions League on Wednesday.

Hertha Berlin, who are unbeaten in their last four league matches, narrowly beat Borussia Monchengladbach last time out.

Guardiola could make changes to the side that beat Plzen in midweek, with Thomas Muller and Jerome Boateng in line to start.

Hertha boss Jos Luhukay could name the same side that beat Gladbach, with Levan Kobiashvili playing just behind lone striker Adrian Ramos.

Recent form

Bayern Munich: DWWWDW

Hertha Berlin: LLDWDW

Possible starting lineups

Bayern Munich: Neuer; Rafinha, Dante, Boateng, Contento; Lahm; Muller, Schweinsteiger, Kroos, Robben; Mandzukic

Hertha Berlin: Kraft; Pekarik, Lustenberger, Langkamp, Van Den Bergh; Hosogai, Allagui, Ben-Hatira, Skjelbred, Kobiashvili; Ramos

Schalke vs. Borussia Dortmund

Schalke 04 will be looking to move into the top four of the Bundesliga with a victory over Borussia Dortmund on Saturday.

Jens Keller's side, who are unbeaten in their last three league matches, saw off Eintracht Braunschweig last weekend to move up to fifth place in the table.

Dortmund, who defeated Hannover in their last league outing, could go top if they win and other results go their way.

Both sides faced English opposition in the Champions League in midweek, with Schalke losing to Chelsea, while Dortmund beat Arsenal.

Adam Szalai is expected to lead the line for Schalke in the continued absence of Klaas-Jan Huntelaar, with Kevin-Prince Boateng dropping back into midfield to replace the injured Marco Hoger.

Jurgen Klopp could be tempted to make changes to the Dortmund side that beat Arsenal, with Erik Durm and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang pushing for starts.

Recent form

Schalke: WWLDWW

Dortmund: WWDWLW

Possible starting lineups

Schalke: Hildebrand; Uchida, Santana, Howedes, Aogo; Neustadter, Boateng, Clemens, Meyer, Draxler; Szalai

Dortmund: Weidenfeller; Grosskreutz, Subotic, Hummels, Schmelzer; Bender, Sahin; Aubameyang, Mkhitaryan, Reus; Lewandowski

Melbourne Victory vs Brisbane Roar

Head-to-head:
Played: 24, Wins: Victory 10, Brisbane 8, Draws: 6
Previous encounter:
Brisbane 1-1 Victory, March 9, 2013

Past five matches:
Victory: DDLWW
Roar: WWWWW

The game:
While this game will attract plenty of attention due to the man who will be slumped in a white chair wearing Victory colours for the last time, the match deserves to be the pick of Round Three of the A-League in its own right as league-leaders Brisbane Roar take on the Big V. Melbourne Victory have been widely tipped to challenge for silverware this season and, Ange Postecoglou's imminent departure notwithstanding, the Big V should have enough quality remain in contention in 2013/14.

Friday night's clash at Etihad Stadium in Melbourne will also pit two teams against each other who love to maintain possession, and try to pass opposition sides to death. As such, the midfield battle will be critical, with the Roar's quintet of Matt McKay, Thomas Broich, Liam Miller, Ivan Franjic and Luke Brattan up against Victory's foursome; Mark Milligan, Mitch Nichols, James Troisi and Leigh Broxham.

Brisbane head coach Mike Mulvey faces one major selection dilemma with striker Besart Berisha set to miss the match with a hamstring injury. Berisha hurt his hamstring in last week's 4-0 win over Sydney FC and was replaced by Henrique, who scored. The pint-sized Brazilian will be the favourite to start up front against Victory but Mulvey may be tempted to pick Kwame Yeboah instead, as the 19-year-old scored six goals in Brisbane's last four pre-season matches.

For Postecoglou, the newly-installed Socceroos head coach is likely to hand Kosta Barbarouses his starting debut for Melbourne against the Kiwi striker's former club after the 23-year-old came off the bench in Victory's 2-2 draw with Adelaide United last week. Barbarouses will probably replace Connor Pain in Melbourne's starting XI, while Postecoglou may be tempted to pick Gui Finkler, who is still building his fitness after his knee injury from last season, to improve Victory's creativity in the final third.

The big issue:
Victory – In Postecoglou's 31 matches in charge of Melbourne, the men in navy blue and white have generally struggled to execute the 48-year-old's 4-2-2-2 striker-less formation on a consistent basis. So far this season, Victory have produced just one top half of football as they came from two goals down at half-time ast week in Adelaide to clinch a draw. With Postecoglou on the way out, can Victory prove their soon-to-be ex-coach's tactics are the way to go for the rest of the 2013/14 campaign?

Roar – Two seasons ago, Berisha won the A-League Golden Boot award with 19 goals as Brisbane were the most-prolific team in the A-League. Last season, Berisha notched 14 and the Roar finished behind five other clubs in terms of goals scored. With the 28-year-old Albanian likely to miss at least a couple of games through injury, do Brisbane have enough firepower to compensate?

The game breaker:
Matt McKay – One game into McKay's second stint with Brisbane and the former captain has already proven himself as a key player for the Roar. The 30-year-old midfielder was at his energetic best against Sydney, helping create both Henrique and Jade North's goals with his clever passing. McKay finished with a passing efficiency of 95 percent against the Sky Blues and his combination of hard-running, clever interplay and attacking vision will make him a handful for Victory's defence on Friday.

Prediction: Victory 2-1 Brisbane
Brisbane are the only team remaining in the A-League with a 100 percent record to start this season. But despite that impressive beginning, the Roar's form remains slightly hard to judge considering they needed a stoppage-time goal to overcome Wellington in the first round and barely had to try against a woeful Sydney side last week. With Berisha out, Brisbane's attack will be severely tested and Victory should have plenty of confidence after their comeback in Round Two. Add the emotional factor of Postecoglou saying farewell, plus a big home crowd, and Melbourne may just edge what promises to be a riveting contest.

Anderlecht vs Paris St Germain

Paris Saint-Germain can make it three wins out of three matches in the Champions League on Wednesday when they travel to Anderlecht in Group C.

Carlo Ancelotti's side have scored seven goals in their previous two fixtures, picking up comprehensive victories against Olympiakos and Benfica.

PSG are also flying domestically as they sit two points clear of Monaco at the top of the Ligue 1 table following an unbeaten start to the campaign.

Anderlecht start the game at the bottom of Group C thanks to two defeats from their first two outings.

The hosts have no fresh injury concerns, while Marco Verratti and Thiago Motta are available for the visitors after serving their respective bans.

Recent form

Anderlecht: LWWLWW

PSG: DWWWWW

Possible starting lineups

Anderlecht: Kaminski; Mbemba, Kouyate, Nuytinck, N'Sakala; Bruno, Praet, Milivojevic, Tielemans, Suarez; Mitrovic

PSG: Sirigu; Jallet, Alex, Marquinhos, Digne; Lucas, Rabiot, Matuidi, Ongenda; Ibrahimovic, Cavani

Real Madrid vs. Juventus

Real Madrid will attempt to make it three wins from three Group B matches when they welcome Italian champions Juventus in the Champions League on Wednesday evening.

Wins over Galatasaray and Copenhagen have left the Spanish outfit top of their section, but it has been a struggle for Juventus thus far with back-to-back draws against Gala and Copenhagen leaving them with just two points at this stage.

The two sides have met each other 14 times in European competition, with Madrid's home record reading won five and lost two. The pair also clashed in the final of the European Cup in 1998, when a strike from Madrid's Predrag Mijatovic secured their seventh European title.

The last time the two European heavyweights met was in the group stages of the 2008-09 campaign when Juventus won 2-1 in Turin, before Alessandro Del Piero scored twice in a 2-0 win for the Italian outfit at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Madrid, who currently sit third in La Liga, enter the match on the back of a 2-0 win over Malaga in the league on Saturday. However, Juventus, who are third in Serie A, were thumped 4-2 by Fiorentina on Sunday.

Iker Casillas is expected to replace Diego Lopez between the sticks for the home side, while Raphael Varane could also start in central defence. However, the match has come too soon for Xabi Alonso, despite the Spaniard returning to first-team training.

Gareth Bale is also expected to be named on the bench as he continues his recovery from a muscular injury, while Karim Benzema could take the place of Alvaro Morata, who started the league win over Malaga at the weekend.

Juventus have no fresh injury concerns from their defeat to Fiorentina on Sunday. Arturo Vidal will be hopeful of coming into the XI alongside Sebastian Giovinco, with Simone Padoin and Fernando Llorente both dropping out. Meanwhile, striker Fabio Quagliarella is unavailable with a thigh injury.

Recent form

Real Madrid: WLWWW

Juventus: WWDWL

Possible starting lineups

Real Madrid: Casillas; Arbeloa, Varane, Ramos, Marcelo; Khedira, Modric; Di Maria, Isco, Ronaldo; Benzema

Juventus: Buffon; Chiellini, Barzagli, Bonucci; Marchisio, Pogba, Pirlo, Vidal, Asamoah; Tevez, Giovinco

Manchester United vs Real Sociedad

With Manchester United’s season apparently on the brink of crisis – after eight games, they are eight points adrift of the leaders, and for the first time in many years David Moyes now has Everton above United in the league - a successful run in Europe is a necessity.

A comfortable home win against Bayer Leverkusen in the opening game of the groups was an ideal start, and had a late goal in Donestsk not deprived them of a 100% start, the reds would be sitting pretty already. That goal however could put an entirely different perspective on the group. Real Sociedad are sitting mid-table in La Liga, and in previous season, a game such as this would have been seen as a pretty non-contentious three pointer for United. This however, is not a season much like any previous ones for the Old Trafford club.

With the irony of a revitalised Wayne Rooney playing in a team that seems to have lost its way, as well as its leader, Wednesday’s game takes on a new significance. Over the weekend, ex-Red Gary Neville neatly encapsulated one of the problems of the team in that the midfield appears slow and one-paced. The introduction of Fellaini appeared, to many United fans I have spoken to very much as a non-United type of purchase, and the games that the Belgian has played in to date have done little to reassure the fans. Playing alongside Carrick in the United engine room does make that central area seem a little one-dimensional, but it may just be a partnership that needs to flourish with time.

The Spanish team arrive in Manchester at a fairly low ebb. Their season to date has been mediocre and they sit currently almost exactly halfway in the La Liga standings. United fans would do well to remember however the last time that a Basque club visited Old Trafford. Athletic Bilbao, were also at the time hardly top dogs in Spain but, over two games, they dominated and won both games with apparent comfort netting a number of goals.

Despite the current malaise at Old Trafford, I still believe that united will be too strong for Sociedad, and with the added hunger of needing a win, their appetite could overwhelm the Basques. I take United to win and restore a little faith and belief in the squad probably by a three goal margin. Mind you, I did say the same when Bilbao rocked up at Old Trafford.

Recent form

Man Utd: LWLDWD

Sociedad: DLDLLW

Possible starting lineups

Man Utd: De Gea; Rafael, Vidic, Ferdinand, Evra; Nani, Carrick, Fellaini, Valencia; Rooney, Van Persie

Sociedad: Bravo; C Martinez, Gonzalez, I Martinez, De La Bella; Vela, Bergara, Pardo, Griezmann; Zurutuza; Agirretxe

Bayern Munich vs Viktoria Plzen

Champions League holders Bayern Munich will attempt to make it nine points from three Group D matches when they welcome Czech outfit Viktoria Plzen to the Allianz Arena on Wednesday.

Bayern have taken six points from two games thus far with wins over CSKA Moscow and Manchester City, while Plzen are yet to record a point having lost to the Russian and the English outfit.

The two sides have previous in European competition having clashed in the first round of the European Cup Winners' Cup in the 1971-72 campaign. It was Bayern that emerged 7-1 victors on aggregate, with current club president Uli Hoeness appearing in both matches.

Bayern have won 13 of their last 15 European Cup matches at the Allianz Arena, but Plzen have lost just one of their last eight games in Europe on the road. That said, the German outfit have never lost at home to Czech opposition - their overall record reads win seven, drawn two and lost one against teams from the Czech Republic.

Bayern, who also won a domestic double last season, currently sit top of the Bundesliga, having collected 23 points from their nine matches. They enter the match on the back of a 4-1 win over Mainz at the weekend.

Plzen, meanwhile, have collected 25 points from their 11 matches in their domestic division this season. They also enter the match on the back of a positive result, having drawn 1-1 with league leaders Slavia Prague on Saturday.

Franck Ribery is doubtful for the home side after picking up an ankle injury in training, but the Frenchman is expected to return to the starting XI. Should the 30-year-old miss out, then Toni Kroos could come into the team. Brazilian defender Dante will miss out with a foot injury.

Summer signing from Barcelona, Thiago, is also still on the sidelines, while Mario Gotze is expected to start on the bench as he continues to ease his way into the team. That said, an attacking lineup should include the likes of Arjen Robben, Thomas Muller and Mario Mandzukic.

Plzen, meanwhile, have no fresh injury concerns ahead of the clash. Marek Barkos is expected to lead their line with support from Frantisek Rajtoral. Tomas Horava and Pavel Horvath are also expected to line up in midfield.

Recent form

Bayern Munich: WWWDW

Viktoria Plzen: DWLWD

Possible starting lineups

Bayern Munich: Neuer; Rafinha, Boateng, Contento, Alaba; Lahm, Schweinsteiger; Robben, Muller, Ribery; Mandzukic

Viktoria Plzen: Kozacik; Hubnik, Reznik, Prochazka, Horava; Horvath, Petrzela, Kovarik, Kolar, Rajtoral; Bakos

Austria Wien vs Atletico Madrid

Atletico Madrid will be confident of getting back to winning ways against Austria Vienna in the Champions League after losing their first game of the season at the weekend.

Diego Simeone's side went down 1-0 at Espanyol to lose their 100% record in La Liga, passing up the opportunity to overtake Barcelona at the summit.

They now travel to Austria's capital to face the minnows of Group G and will be able to start in-form frontman Diego Costa, who missed the last European game at Porto through suspension.

Coach Simeone may be able to welcome back defender Miranda, who was unavailable for the game at Espanyol.

Hosts Vienna impressively picked up a point at Zenit St Petersburg last time out but will be without Alexander Gorgon, who had knee surgery recently and could be out for the rest of the season.

Recent form

Vienna: DLDLLW

Atletico: LWWWWW

Possible starting lineups

Vienna: Lindner; Dilaver, Rogulj, Ortlechner, Suttner; Simkovic, Holland, Mader; Spiridonovic, Hosiner, Jun

Atletico: Courtois; Juanfran, Miranda, Godin, Luis; Koke, Tiago, Gabi, Turan; Villa, Costa

AC Milan vs Barcelona

AC Milan and Barcelona will meet for the third year in a row in the Champions League when they go head-to-head at San Siro on Tuesday.

The sides faced each other in the round of 16 last season, with Barcelona overturning a 2-0 first-leg deficit by winning 4-0 at Camp Nou.

That win for Milan in the opening fixture was their first over the Liga giants since October 2004 - a run of seven fixtures.

Both clubs enjoy a storied past in the Champions League, meeting in the 1994 final when Johan Cruyff's 'Dream Team' were comprehensively dismantled by Fabio Capello's outfit 4-0.

Mario Balotelli is expected to miss Tuesday's clash due to a thigh injury, while Marco Amelia will make his first appearance since April in goal, with Christian Abbiati (calf) injured and Gabriel, who played in Saturday's 1-0 win over Udinese, unregistered.

Daniele Bonera, Mattia De Sciglio, Giampaolo Pazzini (all knee) and Stephan El Shaarawy (foot) are also set to miss the clash as Milan's injury woes persist.

Manager Massimiliano Allegri bemoaned the number of players unavailable to him, but is regardless targeting a vital win against Gerardo Martino's side.

He said: "We're still waiting to get players back namely Pazzini, Bonera, De Sciglio and Balotelli.

"It'll be tough against Barcelona but we have the right requirements to do well.

"There are three points available on Tuesday and they'll be important to get out of the group."

Barcelona failed to win for the first time under Argentine coach Martino on Saturday as they drew 0-0 with Osasuna, the first time in 64 Liga fixtures they have drawn a blank.

Martino has an almost full squad to choose from, with only Jordi Alba and Ibrahim Afellay (both thigh) unavailable due to injury.

Carles Puyol is likely to continue at centre-back, having made his first appearance since last season's 4-0 win over Milan at Osasuna on Saturday.

One man particularly keen to have a good game will be German referee Felix Brych, who will enter the contest having made headlines for all the wrong reasons in the Bundesliga on Friday as he awarded Bayer Leverkusen striker Stefan Kiessling a goal, despite the ball clearly passing through a hole in the side-netting on its way in.

Marseille vs Napoli

Olympique de Marseille go into their game with Napoli on Tuesday knowing defeat will put them on the brink of elimination from the Champions League.

Elie Baup's men failed to take a single point from their opening two Group F games, suffering defeats against Arsenal and Borussia Dortmund respectively.

Napoli are one place ahead of Marseille in the standings after following up their win over Dortmund with a 2-0 loss at Arsenal last time out.

Marseille have won just two of their last six encounters in continental competition.

Both those victories came in the Europa League against weaker opposition, and Rafa Benitez's side - who head into the clash on the back of their first Serie A defeat of the season against Roma on Friday - will fancy their chances of getting back to winning ways in France.

Gonzalo Higuain is likely to be key to Napoli's hopes, with the Argentina international striker having scored four times for the club since joining from Real Madrid in July - including the opener in their 2-1 success over Dortmund last month.

Still, the visitors' away record in the Champions League is far from impressive, with Napoli tasting victory in just one of their last five games on their travels.

Marseille should take heart from that statistic, and will hope that striker Andre-Pierre Gignac can produce his best form as they seek their first points of the competition.

Gignac scored 18 goals in all competitions last season, but has found the net just three times so far this term.

Meanwhile, Benitez has a near fully-fit squad to choose from, with winger Juan Zuniga the only absentee.

Dimitri Payet is poised to return to the Marseille side after the winger missed Friday's 1-0 defeat to Nice through suspension, providing Baup with a full complement of players.

Marseille's last victory in the Champions League came in 2012 as they beat Inter in the last 16, and Baup will hope his side can replicate that surprise win as they aim to keep their qualification chances alive.

Schalke vs Chelsea

Schalke 04 face their sternest test so far in this season's Champions League but can make it three wins out of three in Group E if they beat Chelsea on Tuesday night.

Since being battered 4-0 by Bayern Munich exactly a month ago, the German side have won four and drawn one game in all competitions.

Jens Keller will be without Marco Hoger, who will miss the rest of the season after undergoing knee surgery. Kevin-Prince Boateng could return on Tuesday and fill in for Hoger in central midfield.

Striker Klaas-Jan Huntelaar has also been ruled out until the New Year so Adam Szalai is likely to start up front.

Visiting Chelsea are definitely without left-back Ashley Cole, whose place in defence should be taken by Ryan Bertrand.

In attack, Fernando Torres is likely to lead the line after Samuel Eto'o started Saturday's Premier League win over Cardiff, with Oscar also set to be named in Jose Mourinho's lineup after scoring as a substitute at Stamford Bridge.

When these two sides last met in the group stage in 2007, it finished 0-0 at the Veltins-Arena.

Recent form

Schalke: WWWDWL

Chelsea: WWWDWW

Possible starting lineups

Schalke: Hildebrand; Uchida, Santana, Howedes, Aogo; Neustadter, Boateng; Clemens, Meyer, Draxler; Szalai

Chelsea: Cech; Ivanovic, Cahill, Terry, Bertrand; Ramires, Obi Mikel; Mata, Oscar, Hazard; Torres

Arsenal vs Dortmund

Arsenal know a victory will secure them qualification to the knockout stages of the competition and will therefore look to field a strong team. After another poor showing over the weekend, Per Mertesacker could be dropped for Laurent Koscielny while Gervinho and Mikel Arteta could be rested in place of Tomas Rosicky and Marouane Chamakh.

The Gunners have no new injury concerns but still lack the expertise of long-term absentees Jack Wilshere and Abou Diaby.

Visiting boss Jurgen Klopp may well want to continue with a similar side to that which beat their title rivals Bayern Munich 1-0 at the Allianz Arena on Saturday. Their main injury concern involves defender Neven Subotic, who is likely to be out of action until the new year due to a facial injury suffered against Wolfsburg earlier in the month.

Arsenal are so far undefeated in the group stage of the Champions League, winning two and drawing two. Every other team in Group F has lost at least one match.

Tomas Rosicky, who could feature against his former team, scored against Arsenal when he played for Borussia Dortmund in the 2002-03 season.

Both Arsenal and Dortmund had poor starts to the season but have regained form of late; the German outfit are unbeaten in eight games while the Gunners have won five of their last six in all competitions.

Arsenal’s captain Robin van Persie has scored 31 goals in 2011, averaging 1.07 strikes per game.

Dortmund were the first German team to win the Champions League after the reformation of the tournament in 1992, triumphing in 1997.

The first game between the sides ended in a 1-1 draw after Dortmund snatched a late equaliser.

Arsenal’s only two clean sheets in their last eight games have come in the Champions League while Dortmund have kept five in their last eight fixtures.

Western Sydney Wanderers vs Wellington Phoenix

Head-to-head:

Played: 3, Wins: Wanderers 2, Phoenix 1.

Previous encounter:

Wanderers 2-1 Phoenix, March 10 2013

Past five matches:

Wanderers: LDLWD

Phoenix: DWWWL

The Game:

Neither side could manage a winning start to the 2013-14 campaign in Round 1 and will be looking to rectify that fact at Parramatta Stadium on Sunday afternoon. Last season's premiers snatched a 1-1 draw with reigning Champions Central Coast on the back of an 87th-minute equaliser from new recruit Tomi Juric in Gosford on Saturday. A depleted Phoenix led early against the Brisbane Roar and looked set to share the points before Ivan Franjic scored a late goal to steal a 2-1 victory for the visitors. It was a brave effort from Ernie Merrick's new-look side, while the Wanderers showed they will again be a force this season. The fact that Shinji Ono, Juric and Brendan Santalab all started on the bench shows the depth of Tony Popovic's squad while the Phoenix will again be missing Andrew Durante, Jeremy Brockie, Leo Bertos and Glen Moss on international duties and the injured Louis Fenton.

The big issue:

Wanderers – second-year syndrome is often talked about in all codes and it's vital last season's Premiers make a decent start this season, especially at home. The Wanderers looked rusty in the first half in last week's grand-final rematch but started to find their rhythm and create chances in the second half. They still have the roster to challenge for both crowns this season but their ability to handle the weight of expectation will determine where they finish in 2013-14. And that starts this week in front of the rabid Red and Black Bloc at Parramatta Stadium.

Phoenix – keep the home fans as quiet as possible. The Wanderers fans are only entering their second season but they are already a formidable force and have been a big part of the fledgling club's success so far. The Phoenix led against the Roar last weekend but couldn't hold on. A fast start is imperative at Parramatta Stadium if they are to have any hope of pulling off the upset.

The game breaker:

Youssouf Hersi – the livewire winger was central to the Wanderers' success last season and he started with a bang last weekend, setting up the equalising goal with a dangerous cross. While Popovic has built a side based on solid defence and structure, Hersi provides the X-factor and is capable of breaking any game open at any moment.

Prediction: Wanderers 2-1 Phoenix

The Wanderers should have too much class for the under-strength Phoenix but Merrick's men showed last weekend they won't go down without a fight this season, despite being written off by most pundits. It will be interesting to see whether Popovic keeps marquee man Ono on the bench again, while Carlos Hernandez holds the key for the Phoenix and will be better for the run after getting through a full game against the Roar in Round 1. Expect the Wanders to dominate the midfield battle and create more chances, but if they don't cash in on their opportunities Hernandez and co are capable of stealing an upset victory.

Mike Alvarado vs. Ruslan Provodnikov

 Mike Alvarado vs. Ruslan Provodnikov, 12 rounds, junior welterweight

Juan Diaz vs. Juan Santiago, 10 rounds, lightweight

Donovan Dennis vs. Hugo Arceo, 6 rounds, heavyweight

Starling Cordero vs. Abraham Rubio, 6 rounds, bantamweight

Manuel Lopez vs. Julio Chavez, 6 rounds, junior welterweight

Vitor Jones de Oliveira vs. Martin Quesada, 4 rounds, junior lightweight

Daniel Calzada vs. Carlos Marquez, 6 rounds, welterweight

Denver's Mike Alvarado, in three of his past four fights, brawled his way through slugfests. In boxing parlance, they're called "phone booth" fights. Two guys trading haymakers in the center of the ring.

It earned Alvarado a dangerous reputation as an entertaining all-or-nothing fighter living on the edge.

But then, in March, he turned that tag around. Alvarado went from brawler to boxer and out-punched Brandon Rios to win the World Boxing Organization junior welterweight title.

On Saturday night, Alvarado returns to the ring with his reputation again on the line. He will go against powerful Russian slugger Ruslan Provodnikov at the FirstBank Center in Broomfield to defend his title. The fight, Alvarado's first championship defense and first hometown fight since 2011, airs on HBO.

It's a matchup that has boxing fans drooling over the potential for action. Can Alvarado, seemingly a slugger at heart, again be a technical whiz and keep Provodnikov away? Or will the fight evolve into an all-out brawl?

"The good news for Alvarado is he's a very good boxer," said HBO analyst Max Kellerman, who will call color commentary. "Provodnikov's challenge is ... can he force matters into a brawl and change the fight even when Alvarado doesn't want to slug?"

Between them, Alvarado (34-1, 23 knockouts) and Provodnikov (22-2, 15 KOs) have each knocked out nearly 70 percent of their opponents. But both are coming off decisions — Alvarado won unanimously over Rios at 140 pounds, and Provodnikov lost a tough bout against Tim Bradley at 147 pounds.

"Provodnikov's quality as a tough guy is outstanding," Kellerman said. "Alvarado should slug only when he has to. But even then, Alvarado is a bad dude. ... He might be able to slug with Provodnikov — and there will be moments of slugging."

Against Rios, Alvarado got tricky. Coming out of clinches, he switched to a southpaw stance, and he jabbed going forward and back. It was a tactic meant to frustrate and confuse Rios, who prefers fighting within breathing distance.

Provodnikov also wants to lure Alvarado into the phone booth. In the run up to the fight, he seemed intent on goading Alvarado into trading big blows.

"Mike Alvarado, he's a brawler like I am," Provodnikov said. "I have to fight him in a brawl. I have to be much more coldblooded and break him down."

But Alvarado will have a decided size advantage — he's 3 inches taller with a a 3½-inch reach advantage. Alvarado knows it's on him to keep the danger of Provodnikov's knockout power away.

"He's going to fight how he knows how. That's who he is," Alvarado said. "He's dangerous. It only takes one shot. I could be kicking his butt every minute of the fight right up to the last round, but if he gets one shot in, then he can get the fight."

Provodnikov said he developed a game plan with his trainer, Freddie Roach, at the Wild Card Gym in Los Angeles.

"I know what to expect from Alvarado. Freddie told me, 'You're better than him. And you're going to be world champion,'" Provodnikov said.

Alvarado faced an added challenge Friday when he stepped on the scales one pound too heavy at an official weigh-in. He eventually returned, nearly two hours later, to weigh in just under the limit at 139.8 pounds, same as Provodnikov.

"This fight has 'war' written all over it, and there's a good chance that this fight will turn into that," Alvarado said. "I have a good game plan and I know how I'm going to box to win this fight. But you never know."

Brisbane Roar FC vs. Sydney FC

Head-to-head:
Played 26: Wins: Roar 11, Sydney 7, Draws: 8
Previous encounter:
Brisbane Roar 3-1 Sydney FC, March 28, 2013
Form:
Past five matches:
Roar: WWWWW
Sydney FC: LLLLW
The Game:
Both sides made winning starts to the new season last weekend and should come into this clash full of confidence. Brisbane came from behind to beat an under-strength Wellington 2-1, while the Alessandro Del Piero-inspired Sky Blues saw off Newcastle 2-0. Given their winning form it would be hard to see either coach making too many changes. Sydney coach Frank Farina should have Socceroos veteran Brett Emerton (back) available again while Rhyan Grant, who came off the bench last weekend, is edging nearer to full fitness and a chance to start. The two sides met in the pre-season with Brisbane running out comfortable winners and the Roar have a superior head-to-head record against Sydney and won two of the three clashes last season.
The big issue:
Brisbane – From what we saw in the opening round, Brisbane will again play their open, attractive brand of football under Mike Mulvey. They created a host of opportunities against Wellington and took two to ensure they left the 'Cake Tin' with all three points. While he would have been delighted with the way his side played, Mulvey will want his strikeforce to become more clinical in front of goal, especially when they come up against the stronger sides in the A-League. 
Sydney – The Sky Blues answered a host of critics with their win over Newcastle in the season-opener. The challenge for Sydney and Farina now is to keep it going. Consistency in performances was the side's big problem last season, rarely able to string two or three good games together in a row. With a big derby against the Western Sydney Wanderers to come in Round 3, the Sky Blues can ill-afford to take two steps back after starting the campaign on the front foot.
The game breaker:
Besart Berisha – Sydney fans must be getting sick of the sight of the prolific Albanian striker. Berisha is the opposition fans love to hate and the Sky Blues supporters have every reason to given his record against them. Berisha has scored in the last four competitive games he has played against Sydney and looms as the danger man again. Frank Farina's new-look back four acquitted themselves well against the Jets but will need to be just as solid to stop Berisha and his supply from the likes of Thomas Broich, Liam Miller and Ivan Franjic.  
Prediction: Roar 2-1 Sydney
After a less than impressive pre-season, Farina would have been relieved to have got off to a good start last weekend. But the in-form Roar will give the Sky Blues boss a much better indication of how they are travelling. Brisbane took a little longer than expected to see off the Phoenix last weekend but they have an enormous amount of firepower in their ranks which is sure to put more heat on Sydney's defence than the Jets managed too. It wouldn't surprise if this early in the season these sides cancelled each other out but with Berisha in form and in front of their home fans, a Roar win appears the most likely result

Borussia Dortmund vs Hannover 96

Borussia Dortmund vs Hannover 96 October19/2013
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Borussia Dortmund will look to bounce back from their first league defeat of the season when they host Hannover on Saturday.

Jurgen Klopp's men were beaten 2-0 by Borussia Monchengladbach prior to the international break, as they dropped from first to second in the Bundesliga standings.

Hannover, who sit fifth, go into the game with just one win in their last four league outings, having lost to the two other sides in the top three, Bayern Munich and Bayer Leverkusen, in September.

They have a poor record against Saturday's opponents, too, having not beaten Dortmund in their last four meetings in all competitions.

If last season's Bundesliga runners-up are to return to winning ways they are likely to have to do so without a number of established first-team players.

Marco Reus was ruled out of international duty with a torn ankle ligament and is a doubt, while Nuri Sahin is also set to miss out with a similar injury.

Klopp will also be without the suspended Mats Hummels as well as long-term injury worries Marcel Schmelzer (thigh), Lukasz Piszczek (hip and groin) and Ilkay Gundogan (back).

However, Sven Bender could make a return from the groin and back injuries that forced him to miss Germany's final two Fifa World Cup qualifiers.

None of the trio featured in Dortmund's practice match against Cologne on Tuesday, which saw Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Julian Schieber score in a 2-1 win.

Hannover have injury concerns of their own, with striker Mame Biram Diouf a doubt due to a hamstring tear that kept him out out the 1-1 draw with Hertha Berlin and Senegal's 3-1 defeat to the Ivory Coast on Saturday.

Striker Didier Ya Konan (ankle) and defender Felipe (hip) are also ruled out, having undergone operations on their respective injuries.

Mirko Slomka's men kept themselves sharp during the international break with a 16-1 friendly win over lower-league side TSV Barsinghausen and will need to take some of that finishing ability into Saturday's game.

While Hannover have conceded just 11 goals in the league, they have also only scored 11 - the lowest of any team in the top eight.

Slomka's men will see Dortmund striker Robert Lewandowksi as a major threat, with the Poland international having scored six times in the Bundesliga this season, and seven in his last four against Hannover.

Bayern Munich vs FSV Mainz 05

Bayern Munich vs FSV Mainz 05 October19/2013
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Bayern Munich take on Mainz 05 on Saturday in the Bundesliga looking to keep their place at the top of the league.

The hosts are the only side still unbeaten in the Bundesliga and have won four of their last five.

The visiting Mainz are on a dreadful run of form following a strong start, with a run of four straight defeats ended with a draw at home to Hoffenheim before the international break.

For Bayern Javi Martinez is closing in on a return but this game will come too soon for the player who has yet to restart full training, which means that Philipp Lahm will continue in his anchor role in midfield.

Mainz could welcome Bo Svensson back from injury and he might come into the XI in place of Stefan Bell.

Recent form

Bayern: WDWWWD

Mainz: WLLLLD

Possible starting lineups

Bayern: Neuer; Rafinha, Boateng, Dante, Alaba; Lahm; Robben, Muller, Schweinsteiger, Ribery; Mandzukic

Mainz: Muller; Pospech, Svensson, Noveski, Park; Geis, Moritz, Soto; Muller, Zimling, Okazaki

Osasuna vs Barcelona

Barcelona travel to Osasuna in La Liga this weekend looking to maintain their 100% start to the current campaign.

The Spanish champions will be confident of coming away with a result, lying 18 points ahead of their struggling opponents ahead of kickoff.

Barca are one of two teams to have won every league fixture so far, the other being Atletico Madrid, who sit one place behind the table toppers on goal difference.

Lionel Messi is expected to feature for the Catalan giants, but may have to settle for a place on the subs' bench following a month-long injury layoff.

Osasuna are languishing in 18th place in the table, but picked up their second win of the season in their last outing, emerging 1-0 victors at Malaga.

A surprise win could move them up into mid-table should other results go their way.

Recent form

Osasuna: LLWLLW

Barca:WWWWWW

Possible starting lineups

Osasuna: Andres; Damia, Loties, Arribas, Bertran; Lolo, Silva, Sisi, De las Cuevas; Armenteros, Riera

Barca: Valdes; Alves, Pique, Bartra, Adriano; Song, Xavi, Fabregas; Tello, Neymar, Sanchez

West Ham vs Manchester City

West Ham United host Manchester City on Saturday evening hoping to build on their remarkable victory over Tottenham Hotspur.

The Hammers netted three second-half goals to defeat their rivals 3-0 at White Hart Lane to move to 13th position in the Premier League table.

Manager Sam Allardyce is unlikely to alter his starting lineup unless any of his team returns from the international break with an injury.

Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini has seen his side perform inconsistently since his arrival at the Etihad Stadium in the summer.

However, after back-to-back defeats, they recorded a 3-1 victory over Everton two weeks ago to ensure that they remain in contention at the top of the table.

City could be without captain Vincent Kompany, who suffered a thigh injury against the Toffees.

Recent form

West Ham United: DLWLW

Manchester City: WWLLW

Possible starting lineups

West Ham United: Jaaskelainen; Demel, Rat, Tomkins, Reid; Diame, Noble, Nolan, Downing, Morrsion; Vaz Te

Manchester City: Hart; Zabaleta, Kolarov, Nastasic, Lescott; Fernandinho, Milner, Yaya Toure, Silva; Negredo, Aguero

Manchester United vs Southampton

Manchester United will be looking to win back-to-back Premier League matches for the first time this season when they play host to Southampton on Saturday.

David Moyes's side, who currently sit ninth in the table, go into the match off the back of a 2-1 success at Sunderland a fortnight ago.

United will be hoping to avoid consecutive home defeats in the league for the first time since May 2002.

Southampton have moved up to fourth place after winning their last three league games, the latest coming against Swansea City two weeks ago. The Saints could go top if they win and other results go their way.

United defender Rio Ferdinand is expected to feature after missing the club's last two league games, while Tom Cleverley could start.

Moyes may be tempted to hand a start to youngster Adnan Januzaj after his brace against Sunderland.

Southampton left-back Luke Shaw could replace Danny Fox in the team after recovering from an illness.

Recent form

Man Utd: DLWLLW

Southampton: DLDWWW

Possible starting lineups

Man Utd: De Gea; Rafael, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra; Carrick, Fellaini; Nani, Rooney, Januzaj; Van Persie

Southampton: Boruc; Clyne, Fonte, Lovren, Shaw; Lallana, Schneiderlin, Wanyama, Ward-Prowse; Lambert, Osvaldo