Weekend Football Preview: Key Matches to Watch

Every Friday, I highlight the most compelling football matches to look forward to over the weekend, spanning from intense derbies to crucial relegation battles, featuring top talents and intriguing tactical matchups. This week, we explore action in England, Scotland, Spain, Italy, France, and even the Saudi Pro League, showcasing significant returns, cup excitement, and managerial shifts!

Cristiano Ronaldo Makes His Comeback

Al Fateh vs. Al Nassr
Saudi Pro League, Matchday 21
Kickoff: Saturday, 12:30 p.m. ET / 5:30 p.m. GMT

Cristiano Ronaldo is set to return! After sitting out Al Nassr’s last two league matches in protest over insufficient transfer investments from the club’s owner, he is now ready to hit the field again this Saturday against Al Fateh, who currently sit in 10th place.

Al Nassr managed to secure two victories in Ronaldo’s absence, with a narrow 1-0 win over Al Riyadh fueled by a goal from Sadio Mané, and a comfortable 2-0 against Al Ittihad, again thanks to contributions from Mané and Gabriel. Nevertheless, Ronaldo’s experience and skill will greatly benefit the team, as he partners with João Félix in a classic 4-4-2 setup under Jorge Jesus.

The Riyadh club is firmly in the title hunt, trailing league leaders Al Hilal by only one point with 14 matches remaining, including a critical home showdown against them on May 7.

This match marks an optimal return for Ronaldo, as Al Fateh has struggled recently with no wins in their last six league outings and possesses a relatively weak squad aside from a couple of Cape Verde internationals. Ronaldo, currently 39 goals shy of 1000 career goals, should be well-rested and eager to increase his tally.

MY PREDICTION: Al Fateh 0-3 Al Nassr. With a strong recent performance, Al Nassr should secure an easy victory against a struggling Al Fateh team.

Derby d’Italia with Major Title Stakes

Inter Milan vs. Juventus
Italian Serie A, Matchday 25
Kickoff: Saturday, 2:45 p.m. ET / 7:45 p.m. GMT

The rivalry between Inter Milan and Juventus is poised to be electrifying! The 255th meeting in this storied rivalry could drastically influence the Serie A title race.

While AC Milan sits second in the standings, Inter has had an excellent run, winning 11 of their last 12 league matches (with one draw), showcasing the prowess of Lautaro Martínez, who has scored in his last four games. Federico Dimarco has also been remarkable, contributing 11 assists and five goals.

Juventus, under Luciano Spalletti, currently ranks fourth and desperately needs a win to maintain their title aspirations. If they replicate their strong home performance from a few weeks ago, they could challenge Inter; however, inconsistency remains an issue.

MY PREDICTION: Inter Milan 3-1 Juventus. Given Inter’s recent form, it will be tough for Juve to emerge unscathed at San Siro.

Real Sociedad’s Remarkable Run Faces Real Madrid

Real Madrid vs. Real Sociedad
Spanish La Liga, Matchday 24
Kickoff: Sunday, 3 p.m. ET / 8 p.m. GMT

Pellegrino Matarazzo has transformed Real Sociedad since his arrival, guiding them through an unbeaten run that includes victories over league leaders. His side now sits eighth in the league, just three points shy of a European spot.

In their upcoming match, they face a Real Madrid team that has secured seven consecutive wins but has struggled with overall performance. Despite Kylian Mbappé’s impressive goal tally, the squad has garnered frustration from fans due to lackluster displays.

MY PREDICTION: Real Madrid 2-2 Real Sociedad. Despite Real’s winning streak, Sociedad’s current form may earn them a vital point.

A Potential for Another FA Cup Upset

Macclesfield vs. Brentford
English FA Cup, Fourth Round
Kickoff: Monday, 2:30 p.m. ET / 7:30 p.m. GMT

After a stunning upset against last year’s FA Cup champions Crystal Palace, sixth-tier Macclesfield aims for another surprise by facing Premier League’s Brentford.

Despite a solid home record and a strong recent performance, the odds are still against the underdogs. Brentford, who are accustomed to higher competition and coming off a match against Arsenal, will be looking to avoid any mishaps that could cost them the match.

MY PREDICTION: Macclesfield 0-3 Brentford. It’s a fairy tale for the minnows, but Brentford’s prowess should secure them the win.

Marseille’s New Era Begins Against Strasbourg

Marseille vs. Strasbourg
French Ligue 1, Matchday 22
Kickoff: Saturday, 11 a.m. ET / 4 p.m. GMT

Following a crushing defeat to PSG leading to Roberto De Zerbi’s departure, Marseille finds itself in a transitional phase. Interim coach Jacques Abardonado takes the helm with the task of securing a vital win against Strasbourg.

Strasbourg will look to capitalize on Marseille’s confusion and potentially secure all three points in a challenging away match.

MY PREDICTION: Marseille 1-2 Strasbourg. The coaching shakeup may not bring the immediate bounce expected, allowing Strasbourg to seize the moment.

Key Scottish Fixture in the Title Race

Rangers vs. Hearts
Scottish Premiership, Matchday 27
Kickoff: Sunday, 11:30 a.m. ET / 4:30 p.m. GMT

This match could be pivotal in the Scottish title race, with Hearts leading the table. Rangers, who recently dropped points unexpectedly, must bounce back against a resilient Hearts side.

Hearts, benefiting from strategic recruitment, has pushed the boundaries this season, earning respect as serious contenders. They will not shy away from facing Rangers in Glasgow, having already secured impressive away victories.

MY PREDICTION: Rangers 2-1 Hearts. Rangers have a critical opportunity to assert themselves as title contenders and reclaim momentum.