Every Friday, I will highlight the most thrilling or noteworthy soccer matches to catch over the weekend. Whether it’s intense derbies, high-stakes confrontations, or tactical showdowns featuring world-class talent, there will be something for all fans to appreciate.
This week, we’re headed to England, France, Scotland, Germany, South America, and the U.S. for some pivotal derbies and even a G.O.A.T. appearance.
– MLS team-by-team preview: Why is 2026 your team’s year?
– Haaland, Rice, Semenyo: Who will you choose as the Premier League Player of the Year?
– A Klassiker win could seal Dortmund’s fate this season.
Another London derby: a critical match in the title chase
Arsenal vs. Chelsea
Premier League, Matchday 28
Kickoff: Sunday, 11:30 a.m. ET / 4:30 p.m. GMT
A week after a strong response to their critics with a commanding 4-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur in the North London derby, Arsenal return to the Emirates for yet another vital London derby in their pursuit of a long-awaited title.
This marks their fourth encounter with Chelsea this season, following a couple of Carabao Cup semifinal matches — Arsenal triumphed in two and drew one. With significant momentum, Arsenal looks to continue their strong performances, while Chelsea’s recent form has been shaky, drawing points against Burnley (1-1) and losing a two-goal lead against Leeds United.
Mikel Arteta’s squad understands they need to replicate the intensity and structure they exhibited against Spurs. They could have easily secured a 6-0 victory last Sunday. but, Chelsea, who will provide a tougher challenge, need Arsenal to deliver a similar standard of play, particularly from standout performers Eberechi Eze and Viktor Gyökeres.
Liam Rosenior must urgently find a way to enhance his team after disappointing performances against Leeds and Burnley. With Wesley Fofana suspended, we’ll see yet another new center back beside Trevoh Chalobah (Tosin Adarabioyo? Josh Acheampong? Mamadou Sarr? Reece James?), and he must also address the situation with Cole Palmer, whose positioning needs reconsideration to maximize his impact.
Chelsea is also tasked with breaking a poor trend; they haven’t triumphed over Arsenal in their last 11 Premier League encounters. With only one clean sheet in their last 11 league matches, questions loom for Rosenior as they head into this challenging fixture at Arsenal.
MY PREDICTION: Arsenal 2-1 Chelsea. Arsenal will carry their momentum from the victory against Tottenham into another London clash, with Chelsea likely finding the net but ultimately falling short.
A showdown of the French Olympiques
Marseille vs. Lyon
Ligue 1, Matchday 24
Kickoff: Sunday 2:45 p.m. ET / 7:45 p.m. GMT
I can’t recall a recent Olympico (Olympique de Marseille vs. Olympique Lyonnais) holding so much weight. Following a tumultuous few weeks, L’OM have appointed a new manager (Habib Beye in place of Roberto De Zerbi), and Medhi Benatia is now at the helm, while president Pablo Longoria is facing an exit after being reassigned by owner Frank McCourt.
Marseille remains desperate for points, as they’ve gone winless in their last four league matches and trail Lyon by five points, a placement that would secure UEFA Champions League qualification for next season. Missing out on top European competition is not an option for Marseille financially; a massive recovery effort is essential at the Stade Vélodrome this Sunday.
Lyon, under different circumstances, approach this match with newfound confidence after a stellar run of 13 consecutive wins across all competitions, even with a recent blemish—a 3-1 loss to Strasbourg. Paulo Fonseca’s squad exudes confidence compared to their Marseille counterparts.
The X-factor for Lyon is young striker Endrick, who needs to step up in key moments to solidify their position in third place and bolster their standings with just 10 matches left to play this season.
MY PREDICTION: Marseille 3-2 Lyon. Expect a high-scoring clash in the Olympico, as Marseille historically rises to the occasion, evident from their recent victory over league leaders Lens. They are poised to overcome Lyon once more.
Bundesliga, Matchday 24
Kickoff: Saturday 12:30 p.m. ET / 5:30 p.m. GMT
Stream LIVE on ESPN+ in the U.S.
This match may serve as a decisive point in the German Bundesliga title race. Bayern, leading the table by eight points, faces Dortmund; a loss could narrow the gap substantially with only 10 matches remaining.
Bayern has displayed impressive form throughout the season, but recent setbacks—a home loss to Augsburg and draw with Hamburg—suggest vulnerability. Harry Kane remains a standout performer with 28 goals in 23 league appearances, and ghosts of unusual errors from Bayern players could surface at the worst moment.
Dortmund, managed by Niko Kovac (previously dismissed by Bayern), has a significant opportunity. They have gone 16 league matches without defeat, the only loss being to Bayern back in October, and their recent scoring regularity could prove pivotal against the top side.
MY PREDICTION: Dortmund 1-2 Bayern. While Dortmund will put forth a valiant effort, Bayern’s experience and clinical nature should see them secure the three points.
2:22
Leboeuf & Marcotti debate a late penalty call for Atalanta
Frank Leboeuf and Gab Marcotti dissect the penalty decision that propelled Atalanta into the Champions League knockout stage.
Old Firm match with stakes
Rangers vs. Celtic
Scottish Premiership, Matchday 29
Kickoff: Sunday, 7 a.m. ET / 12 p.m. GMT
Danny Rohl has made impressive strides since taking charge at Rangers in October. They boast the most points gathered since his arrival, and despite a few recent setbacks, they’ve showcased superior form in the Old Firm lately.
Rangers triumphed over Celtic as recently as January, and after a solid win against the table-toppling Hearts, they’re only two points ahead of Celtic, who hold a game in hand. This game is of utmost importance for Rangers, a boost to their morale before the league splits for playoffs.
Conversely, Celtic and their manager Martin O’Neill face a challenging period. Late victories against Kilmarnock and Livingston have been marred by an unexpected loss to Hibernian, complicating their title defense. After a goalless draw last August and a League Cup final win, they require a triumph to stay competitive with Hearts, who play against Aberdeen.
MY PREDICTION: Rangers 2-1 Celtic. Even with a few missteps, Rangers still perform well in significant matches, and I expect them to rise to the occasion once more.
Messi and Co. seek first league victory
Orlando City vs. Inter Miami
MLS, Matchday 2
Kickoff: Sunday, 7:00 p.m. ET / Monday, 12:00 a.m GMT
Inter Miami’s new MLS season didn’t kick off as anticipated, as Messi and his teammates faced a 3-0 defeat at the hands of LAFC, leaving Messi so frustrated that he allegedly wanted to confront the referee afterward. Not an ideal start.
This match against Orlando presents the ideal opportunity for them to rebound. With some key players like Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba retired, Messi needs to shoulder more responsibility alongside Rodrigo De Paul in midfield.
Two new signings, striker Germán Berterame and goalkeeper Dayne St.Clair, had underwhelming performances last week but are expected to excel in this fixture, which offers a chance for immediate redemption.
Orlando also suffered a loss in their opening match, falling 2-1 to the New York Red Bulls and their young star Julian Hall, who scored twice. After a challenging last season with a poor ending, the pressure will be on manager Oscar Pareja as a second defeat could spell trouble.
MY PREDICTION: Orlando City 1-3 Miami. This match comes as a perfect rebound opportunity for Messi and Miami post-defeat, and I expect a solid win where the G.O.A.T. will shine, even if he isn’t fully fit yet.
1:00
What went awry for Lionel Messi and Inter Miami against LAFC?
The “Futbol Americas” team discusses Inter Miami’s 3-0 loss to Los Angeles FC in the MLS.
Crucial for Villa’s Champions League hopes
Wolves vs. Aston Villa
Premier League, Matchday 28
Kickoff: Friday, 3 p.m. ET / 8 p.m GMT
The battle for top five positions in the Premier League is intensifying at a pivotal moment for fans. Villa appeared guaranteed a spot, but their recent performances (two wins in their last seven matches) have allowed Manchester United to close within three points and left Chelsea and Liverpool closely following in fifth and sixth place.
This upcoming Midlands derby on Friday night is crucial for Villa as they seek all three points against Wolverhampton.
Their attack has relied more and more on individual brilliance, particularly from Morgan Rogers on set pieces, while defensively, they remain vulnerable, as evidenced in their recent 1-1 draw against Leeds. Missing key players makes squad depth crucial in their quest for financial viability and competitive spirit.
Wolves will aim to disrupt Villa’s attempt at a Champions League berth. With pride at stake, Rob Edwards’ players are poised to capitalize on any chance to put pressure on Villa. Expect a strong defensive showing combined with pressing against a Villa side that hasn’t been at their best lately.
MY PREDICTION: Wolves 0-2 Aston Villa. even with recent inconsistencies, Unai Emery’s squad will find a way to overcome their shortcomings in this significant matchup.
