#Lawro&039s

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Lawro's World Cup predictions: The final weekend

World Cup 2018 on the BBC Host: Russia Dates: 14 June – 15 July Live: Coverage across BBC TV, BBC Radio and BBC Sport website with further coverage on Red Button, Connected TVs and mobile app.

Croatia midfield maestro Luka Modric is Mark Lawrenson’s player of the 2018 World Cup, but who does he think will win Sunday’s final?

The match between France and Croatia is the 64th and final game of the tournament. Lawro has made a prediction for all of them and, overall, he has been right 52% of the time.

In the semi-finals, Lawro correctly thought France would beat Belgium, but predicted England would win their semi-final 2-1 in extra time. Sadly for Gareth Southgate’s side, it was Croatia who scored the decisive late goal.

Lawro picked the winner in three of the four quarter-finals and six of the eight last-16 ties. He had a 46% success rate in the group stage, correctly predicting the outcome of 22 of the 48 games.

Before the tournament, Lawro correctly chose 14 of the 16 teams that reached the first knockout stage, including Brazil – his pick to win the tournament – and England, who he thought would go out in the quarter-finals.

Lawro was speaking to BBC Sport’s Chris Bevan in Moscow.

Games Score Lawro’s prediction Saturday, 14 July Belgium v England x-x 1-2 Sunday, 15 July France v Croatia x-x 2-0

Saturday, 14 July

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Belgium v England (Third/fourth-place play-off, Krestovsky Stadium, St Petersburg – 15:00 BST)

This is the game nobody wants. Who remembers who finishes third in a World Cup?

When we look back at this tournament, England reached the semi-finals, not finished third or fourth.

I think Belgium boss Roberto Martinez will make some changes, but will Gareth Southgate do the same? I am not sure.

The more I think about it, the more I think Southgate will use it to give a game to the squad members who have spent most of this tournament on the bench but have trained hard and helped the team reach the last four.

This is England’s second meaningless match with Belgium at this World Cup, and the only good thing about this game is it might be quite open, because there is no point getting everyone behind the ball.

Lawro’s prediction: 1-2

Sunday, 15 July

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France v Croatia (World Cup final, Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow – 16:00 BST)

France forward Kylian Mbappe has been absolutely brilliant in a couple of games but Croatia midfielder Luka Modric has been my player of the tournament because he has delivered in every match he has played.

Modric wants the ball in every situation, always tries to pass it forward, and hardly ever gives it away.

He will win the ball back for you too, and has also come up with a couple of goals. His consistency is exceptional and he is an absolute class act. I don’t see a better midfielder in world football.

I have seen Croatia three times during this World Cup and their strength is definitely in the middle of the pitch. That is where they will look to take control of this match.

They are very good at keeping the ball, although they do not always fashion that many chances and France will be extremely difficult to break down.

I was at France’s first game, against Australia, and they have developed and improved as this World Cup has gone on.

Ousmane Dembele started up front against Australia alongside Mbappe and Antoine Griezmann, and it just did not work. They were all moving around well but they had nobody to get hold of the ball for them in the final third.

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Olivier Giroud has come in and given the team a focal point and a presence in that part of the pitch. You know it will stick when it comes into him.

Everyone is saying Giroud has not scored yet, but that doesn’t matter because he makes Mbappe and Griezmann better players and gets them on the ball in dangerous areas.

We have seen France are efficient, and able to stop teams from playing through them, but they are also very dangerous going forward.

They have been the best team here in Russia, and that’s why I am backing them to be world champions.

Lawro’s prediction: 2-0

BBC Sport – Football

Lawro's World Cup predictions: The final weekend was originally published on 365 Football

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11 Sep 2018 Over 2.5 Goals Football Predictions Tips Odds Kenya

11 Sep 2018 Over 2.5 Goals Football Predictions Tips Odds Kenya

11 Sep 2018 Over 2.5 Goals Football Predictions Tips Odds Kenya Best Odds Football Predictions in Kenya 11 Sep 2018 Over 2.5 Goals tips Meekbet Football Prediction for Today 2018

Best football tips and betting predictions in Kenya 2018

Over 2.5 Goals

Iceland – Belgium DATE/TIME: 11/09/18,21.45 LEAGUE:International – UEFA Nations League SPORTPESA GAMEID:5148 ODD:1.80 TIP: Over 2.5 Goals

[stokefootball-blog]

Lawro's predictions v comedian Rhys James

Lawro's predictions v comedian Rhys James

In-form Tottenham take on a revitalised Arsenal in a mouth-watering north London derby on Saturday lunchtime – but will Spurs get revenge for their defeat at Emirates Stadium earlier in the season? BBC Sport football expert Mark Lawrenson says: “It is a long time since Tottenham were beaten – 11 games in all competitions – so they are on a really good run. “Arsenal have only won three out of 13…

[arsenalfootballnews24-blog]

Lawro's predictions - FA Cup final special

Lawro's predictions – FA Cup final special

You can watch the FA Cup live on BBC One and the BBC Sport website, with coverage starting at 16:15 BST on Saturday. BBC Sport’s football expert Mark Lawrenson has pitted his wits against a different guest in every round of this season’s FA Cup. For Saturday’s Wembley final between London rivals Arsenal and Chelsea, Lawro is up against the four people above him on the leaderboard. The joint…

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Lawro's final-day predictions v rock band Royal Blood

Lawro's final-day predictions v rock band Royal Blood

BBC Sport’s football expert Mark Lawrenson has made a prediction for all 380 Premier League games this season. The final table based on all of his predictions is at the bottom of this page. In Lawro’s league table, Chelsea and Liverpool finished joint champions and, overall, he has seven teams out of 20 in their correct positions going into the final round of fixtures. Lawro has been pitting his…

[365soccerorg-blog]

Lawro's predictions v Line of Duty star Adrian Dunbar

Lawro's predictions v Line of Duty star Adrian Dunbar

BBC Sport’s football expert Mark Lawrenson is pitting his wits against a different guest each week this season. Lawro’s opponent for this weekend’s Premier League fixtures is actor Adrian Dunbar, who plays Superintendent Ted Hastings in BBC drama Line of Duty. Dunbar is an Arsenal fan who was a long-term season-ticket holder at Highbury and the Emirates Stadium when he lived in nearby Crouch End.…

[247soccerorg-blog]

Lawro's predictions v Line of Duty star Adrian Dunbar

Lawro's predictions v Line of Duty star Adrian Dunbar

BBC Sport’s football expert Mark Lawrenson is pitting his wits against a different guest each week this season. Lawro’s opponent for this weekend’s Premier League fixtures is actor Adrian Dunbar, who plays Superintendent Ted Hastings in BBC drama Line of Duty. Dunbar is an Arsenal fan who was a long-term season-ticket holder at Highbury and the Emirates Stadium when he lived in nearby Crouch End.…

[365footballnet-blog]

Lawro's predictions v Jermaine Jenas and Trevor Nelson

Lawro's predictions v Jermaine Jenas and Trevor Nelson

BBC Sport’s football expert Mark Lawrenson is pitting his wits against a different guest each week this season. Lawro’s opponents for this weekend’s FA Cup semi-finals and Premier League fixtures are former Tottenham midfielder Jermaine Jenas and Radio 1Xtra DJ Trevor Nelson, who is a Chelsea fan. <!--Jenas and Nelson made their predictions live on Radio 1Xtra’s Charlie Sloth show on…

[365soccercouk-blog]

Lawro's predictions v boxer Anthony Crolla

Lawro's predictions v boxer Anthony Crolla

BBC Sport’s football expert Mark Lawrenson is pitting his wits against a different guest each week this season. Lawro’s opponent for this weekend’s Premier League fixtures is boxer Anthony Crolla. Crolla, who is looking to regain his WBA lightweight title when he fights Jorge Linares in Manchester on 25 March, is a Manchester United fan who says his all-time favourite player is Eric Cantona.…

[365footballorg-blog]

World Cup 2018: Lawro's predictions for semi-finals

World Cup 2018 on the BBC Host: Russia Dates: 14 June – 15 July Live: Coverage across BBC TV, BBC Radio and BBC Sport website with further coverage on Red Button, Connected TVs and mobile app.

BBC Sport football expert Mark Lawrenson is making a prediction for every match in Russia.

Lawro picked the winner in three of the four quarter-finals and six of the eight last-16 ties.

He enjoyed a 46% success rate in the group stage, correctly guessing the outcome of 22 of the 48 games.

Before the tournament, Lawro correctly chose 14 of the 16 teams that reached the first knockout stage, including Brazil – his pick to win the tournament – and England, who he thought would go out in the quarter-finals.

Lawro was speaking to BBC Sport’s Chris Bevan in Moscow.

Games Score Lawro’s prediction Tuesday, 10 July France v Belgium x-x 2-0 Wednesday, 11 July Croatia v England x-x 1-2 (aet)

Tuesday, 10 July

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France v Belgium (Krestovsky Stadium, St Petersburg, 19:00 BST)

Both of these teams have got better as the tournament has gone on, and they have both claimed notable scalps too – France by beating Argentina in the last 16 and Belgium knocking out my tip, Brazil, in the quarter-finals.

There is not much flair at the top end of the France attack with Olivier Giroud leading the line, but he is there to bring people like Kylian Mbappe and Antoine Griezmann into the game.

I am sure Giroud will get a goal soon, but even if he doesn’t he is a big, strong target man, and the other attackers can play off him.

They kind of rotate around him, and the Chelsea striker offers the added bonus of being good at defending set-pieces.

We saw the best of France going forward when Mbappe blew Argentina away, but I don’t think Belgium will be as open as the South Americans were.

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Belgium were excellent against Brazil but I am worried that game might have been their performance of this World Cup. They just need to forget that win, as good as it was, and try to start again.

I just think Les Bleus might step things up here. As we have seen before when they have reached this stage of a major tournament, their success has a wider significance and their football team is seen as a symbol of a united France.

I think they will respond here too – and make it to Moscow next Sunday.

Lawro’s prediction: 2-0

Wednesday, 11 July

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Croatia v England (Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow. 19:00 BST KO)

I was at both of Croatia’s matches in the knockout stages – their penalty shootout wins over Denmark and Russia.

They have got good players right through their team and, without a doubt, they will be the best team that England have played at this World Cup – I am ignoring the meaningless match against Belgium.

So I think Gareth Southgate’s side will have to raise their level from what we have seen so far.

But this just strikes me as one of those games that I really do think England will win by hook or by crook.

Croatia have had extra time in their past two matches, and some of their players looked out on their feet near the end against Russia.

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I just have a feeling that England will find a way to win. Sometimes I think these things are written – and the way this tournament has opened up for England is one of the reasons it feels like this is their time.

I think their players will realise they will never ever have a chance of getting into a World Cup final, and also of winning the thing.

While England’s results have been a lot better than their performances, that is not a bad thing in a tournament like this. Plus I think they have got a lot left in the tank.

One of the areas where they can improve is by creating more chances in open play. We know they are capable of doing it – it just has not happened yet.

So I do think they will find a way to the final – and if they make it back to Moscow four days later, I think they will win it.

Lawro’s prediction: 1-2 (aet)

BBC Sport – Football

World Cup 2018: Lawro's predictions for semi-finals was originally published on 365 Football

[365footballorg-blog]

Can England go one step further? Lawro's World Cup predictions

World Cup 2018 on the BBC Host: Russia Dates: 14 June – 15 July Live: Coverage across BBC TV, BBC Radio and BBC Sport website with further coverage on Red Button, Connected TVs and mobile app.

BBC Sport football expert Mark Lawrenson is making a prediction for every match in Russia.

Lawro picked the winner in six of the eight last-16 ties, and correctly predicted the outcome of 22 of the 48 group games.

Before the tournament, Lawro correctly chose 14 of the 16 teams that reached the first knockout stage, including Brazil –his pick to win the tournament, and England – who he thought would go out in the quarter-finals.

Lawro was speaking to BBC Sport’s Chris Bevan in Moscow.

Games Score Lawro’s prediction Friday, 6 July Uruguay v France x-x 0-1 Brazil v Belgium x-x 2-1 Saturday, 7 July Sweden v England x-x 0-2 Russia v Croatia x-x 0-1

Friday, 6 July

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Uruguay v France (Nizhny Novgorod Stadium, Nizhny Novgorod, 15:00 BST)

Uruguay have struck me as being extremely difficult to beat and, whether or not it is backed up statistically, I think they have got the best defence in the competition.

They also play with two up front – usually Edinson Cavani and Luis Suarez – which means they carry a big threat going forward too. If Cavani is not fit to start this game, that will be a huge blow.

France, meanwhile, have slowly got better and better since the tournament started, and then exploded into life in their win over Argentina.

I think this will be tight but I fancy Didier Deschamps’ side, who are starting to look like a really good team rather than a collection of very talented individuals.

Kylian Mbappe was just brilliant against Argentina and Paul Pogba has been outstanding as well. More of the same from those two, and France will go through.

Lawro’s prediction: 0-1

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Brazil v Belgium (Kazan Arena, Kazan, 19:00 BST)

Brazil have only conceded one goal at this World Cup and have not been behind in a game.

Belgium have a similar attacking outlook, but have been a lot more open.

I don’t think that will be a good idea against Brazil, but I am not sure what else Belgium manager Roberto Martinez will do.

The way the Red Devils came from 2-0 down to beat Japan 3-2 in the last 16 was obviously a good thing, but I think the fact they went behind in the first place shows why they are not going to win the tournament.

Lawro’s prediction: 2-1

Saturday, 7 July

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Sweden v England (Samara Arena, Samara, 15:00 BST)

The thing that impressed me most about England against Colombia was the way they stood up to the provocation they faced.

But Gareth Southgate’s side also did well to respond after conceding an equaliser so late, and obviously recovering from that.

The way the draw has opened up for England is a massive carrot for them, and I think they will continue their progress.

Sweden’s strength is their organisation at the back, but England have got the players to open them up, especially out wide, and I can see them getting some joy when they come forward.

Lawro’s prediction: 0-2

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Russia v Croatia (Fisht Olympic Stadium, Sochi, 19:00 BST)

Croatia really worried me in the last 16 against Denmark because they just disappeared in the second half.

I was co-commentating on that game and Croatia striker Mario Mandzukic went missing. It was just odd – he got himself into positions where it did not seem like he wanted the ball.

We have seen Croatia throw in performances like that one before in the latter stages of tournaments. They seem to stop playing the way that got them there.

They got away with it this time, but they need to step it back up again against Russia.

We know what to expect from the hosts – although their win over Spain on penalties was one of the results of the tournament, they basically played anti-football to get it.

That got them through but it is not what we want at this stage of a World Cup, and I think they have had their moment in the sun.

If I am right, then France will play Brazil in the semi-finals and England will play Croatia, which would not be too shabby a line-up.

I am still backing Brazil to win this World Cup, but the French would give them a serious test.

Lawro’s prediction: 0-1

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BBC Sport – Football

Can England go one step further? Lawro's World Cup predictions was originally published on 365 Football

[365footballorg-blog]

Neymar to fire Brazil into quarter-finals? Lawro's last-16 predictions

World Cup 2018 on the BBC Host: Russia Dates: 14 June – 15 July Live: Coverage across BBC TV, BBC Radio and BBC Sport website with further coverage on Red Button, Connected TVs and mobile app.

Half of the 32 teams have gone home, but which of the survivors will go all the way to the World Cup final at Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow on 15 July?

The hopes of eight more nations will bite the dust after the first knockout round, which includes France versus Argentina and England against Colombia.

BBC Sport football expert Mark Lawrenson is making a prediction for every match in Russia, and correctly guessed the outcome of 22 of the 48 group games.

Before the tournament, Lawro chose 14 of the 16 teams that are through to the first knockout stage, including Brazil, his pick to win the tournament, and England, who he believes will reach the quarter-finals.

Lawro was speaking to BBC Sport’s Chris Bevan in Moscow.

Games Score Lawro’s prediction Saturday, 30 June France v Argentina x-x 2-1 Uruguay v Portugal x-x 1-0 Sunday, 1 July Spain v Russia x-x 2-0 Croatia v Denmark x-x 2-0 Monday 2 July Brazil v Mexico x-x 2-0 Belgium v Japan x-x 2-0 Tuesday 3 July Sweden v Switzerland x-x 0-1 Colombia v England x-x 0-2

Saturday, 30 June

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France v Argentina (Kazan Arena, Kazan, 15:00 BST)

If the Argentina players did have a say in team selection and tactics after their talks with coach Jorge Sampaoli, then one of the decisions they made was to go back to playing with a back four.

I still don’t think they are very good defensively – but they are trying to keep things simple and as tight as possible, and then look for a bit of genius from Lionel Messi – who did exactly that against Nigeria.

While Argentina only just made it to the last 16, France got out of their group without any trouble whatsoever.

Les Bleus have not played anywhere near to their potential yet, and the disjointed performance in their draw with Denmark was not helped by the changes made by boss Didier Deschamps.

I still think France look far better with Olivier Giroud up front and with Paul Pogba in a deeper role alongside N’Golo Kante, rather than two dedicated defensive midfielders.

Sooner or later, I think we are going to see the France players put in a big performance. If they produce it in Kazan, they will win.

Lawro’s prediction: 2-1

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Uruguay v Portugal (Fisht Olympic Stadium, Sochi, 19:00 BST)

This will be a busy evening for the referee, not least with Uruguay’s Atletico Madrid centre-halves Diego Godin and Jose Jimenez up against Portugal’s Real Madrid striker Cristiano Ronaldo.

Portugal will not change the way they play, which is quite one-dimensional and not particularly inspiring.

Uruguay have not exactly set this tournament alight with their attacking play either, but they are more adventurous and have a few more ideas when they come forward.

Lawro’s prediction: 1-0

Sunday, 1 July

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Spain v Russia (Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow, 15:00 BST)

Russia have done very well to get this far, but I think Spain are a step up in class that will be too much for them.

The home support will help the hosts, and there are question marks over some of Spain’s defending at this tournament, but the Spanish players will have so much of the ball on Sunday that I don’t think it will be a great issue.

Lawro’s prediction: 2-0

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Croatia v Denmark (Nizhny Novgorod Stadium, Nizhny Novgorod, 19:00 BST)

I have been very impressed by Croatia, I cannot really see a weak link in their midfield, either centrally or out wide, and they have an attacking outlook right through their team.

Denmark, in contrast, are very ordinary. I am sure they will create some chances, but most of their build-up play is under the ‘hopeful’ category, unless they can get Christian Eriksen on the ball.

Lawro’s prediction: 2-0

Monday, 2 July

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Brazil v Mexico (Samara Arena, Samara, 15:00 BST)

I don’t think Brazil enjoy playing against Mexico, who have a decent record against them.

Brazil have won four of their past six meetings but, since 1999, Mexico have won seven and draw three of their 15 matches.

So the Mexicans will not fear them the way some teams do – but they might have problems stopping them.

Brazil look like they are just starting to come to the boil. Neymar has not really got going yet but, when their attack clicks, the pace with which they come forward is frightening.

Lawro’s prediction: 2-0

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Belgium v Japan (Rostov Arena, Rostov-on-Don, 19:00 BST)

Senegal were actually the team in Group H that I thought would give Belgium and England problems – but they did not make it into the last 16.

When Belgium have played their strongest side they have not struggled to create chances but, even then, they have not looked like the cohesive unit they will need to be to go far in this tournament.

Roberto Martinez’s side will win this tie, though, because I don’t think Japan will be able to cope with their attacking power.

Lawro’s prediction: 2-0

Tuesday, 3 July

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Sweden v Switzerland (Krestovsky Stadium, St Petersburg, 15:00 BST)

Switzerland have been playing well and got out of Group E without too much fuss.

It is very obvious what Sweden do, and they definitely play to their strengths without having any really talented strikers.

From what I have seen of the Swiss, they just have a little bit more about them, which is why I am backing them to get to the quarter-finals.

Lawro’s prediction: 0-1

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Colombia v England (Otkritie Arena, Moscow, 19:00 BST)

I don’t buy the theory that England are better off because they lost to Belgium in their final game in Group G.

Forget about them being in what people consider to be the easier half of the draw, because keeping on winning is the best thing you can do at a World Cup – you do not want to risk stopping the momentum you have built up.

So, we will see what effect making so many changes has on England, but I actually think they will be fine against Colombia.

They have some good players, but I don’t think they will be able to cope with England’s high-pressing game.

Lawro’s prediction: 0-2

BBC Sport – Football

Neymar to fire Brazil into quarter-finals? Lawro's last-16 predictions was originally published on 365 Football

[365footballorg-blog]

'Argentina's situation might bring best out of Messi' - Lawro's predictions for final group games

World Cup 2018 on the BBC Host: Russia Dates: 14 June – 15 July Live: Coverage across BBC TV, BBC Radio and BBC Sport website with further coverage on Red Button, Connected TVs and mobile app.

England and hosts Russia are among the teams already into the last 16, but who will join them?

Some big names are in jeopardy, including holders Germany, who play South Korea in their final group game, and Lionel Messi’s Argentina, who take on Nigeria – both games are live on BBC TV and BBC Radio 5 live.

Lawro is predicting the outcome of all 64 games at the 2018 Fifa World Cup – here he picks the scores in the matches that will decide who else is going through, and who is going home.

Before the group stage started, Lawro picked his two teams to go through from each group into the knockout stage. He is backing Brazil to win the World Cup, and believes England will reach the quarter-finals.

Lawro was speaking to BBC Sport’s Chris Bevan in Moscow.

Group A

Games Score Lawro’s prediction Monday, 25 June Saudi Arabia v Egypt x-x 1-1 Monday, 25 June Uruguay v Russia x-x 1-1

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Saudi Arabia v Egypt (Monday, 25 June at Volgograd Arena, Volgograd. 15:00 BST)

Both of these teams are already out, and both of them had a very disappointing World Cup.

I think Mohamed Salah’s injury has completely overshadowed Egypt’s time in Russia. I can understand why he gave it a go, but it would probably have been better if they had just said that he was not going to be fit, because I don’t think he was.

Neither of these teams have carried a goal threat and, if you don’t have that in this tournament, then you can just forget it.

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Uruguay v Russia (Monday, 25 June at Samara Arena, Samara. 15:00 BST)

A lot of people wrote Russia off before the World Cup started, but they have shown home advantage is absolutely massive – and they have risen to the occasion.

I don’t see the hosts making it three wins out of three, though.

This is by far their hardest game so far and although they have scored plenty of goals, I think they will get an education in what it is like trying to break down a really hardened defence like Uruguay’s.

Lawro’s pre-tournament picks to go through: Uruguay (winners) and Russia (runners-up)

GROUP B

Games Score Lawro’s prediction Monday, 25 June Iran v Portugal x-x 0-1 Monday, 25 June Spain v Morocco x-x 2-0

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Iran v Portugal (Monday, 25 June at Mordovia Arena, Saransk. 19:00 BST)

Iran have done OK so far and, despite losing narrowly to Spain, they still have a chance of getting out of this group.

I don’t see it happening, though, although their Portuguese coach Carlos Queiroz will know all about Portugal after managing them twice.

I thought Portugal’s passing was poor in their last game, a win over Morocco, but they always seem to find a way, helped by Cristiano Ronaldo of course.

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Spain v Morocco (Monday, 25 June at Kaliningrad Stadium, Kalingrad. 19:00 BST)

Spain are the best team I have seen so far at this World Cup. I know they only beat Iran 1-0 but they were so dominant and they look like a class act.

Morocco already know they are going home, but they at least had a go against Portugal in their last game.

I am expecting them to do the same here but, if so, it will probably be a kind of glorious failure, because I would still back Spain to win.

Lawro’s pre-tournament picks to go through: Spain (winners) and Portugal (runners-up)

GROUP C

Games Score Lawro’s prediction Tuesday, 26 June Australia v Peru x-x 1-1 Tuesday, 26 June Denmark v France x-x 0-2

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Australia v Peru (Tuesday, 26 June at Fisht Olympic Stadium, Sochi. 15:00 BST)

I’ve seen both of Australia’s games and I just worry that they might run of of steam, because the way they play is so demanding.

Their coach Bert van Marwijk took them to a training camp in Turkey for about three weeks in the run-up to the tournament, and he has obviously worked them solidly there.

So you could understand if they are tired now, and I also think they will struggle to replace Andrew Nabbout, who looks like he will be missing with a shoulder injury.

Peru are another team who are out, after two defeats, but they have gained a lot of fans with their style of play.

Australia need to win to have any chance of progressing but I actually fancy Peru to get their first point of this World Cup.

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Denmark v France (Tuesday, 26 June at Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow. 15:00 BST)

France looked better against Peru with Olivier Giroud leading their attack than they did against Australia when they used a different formation with two holding midfield players.

You only need one of those when you have got N’Golo Kante in your team anyway.

Denmark will look to Christian Eriksen to provide their inspiration, but I think France will make it three wins out of three.

Lawro’s pre-tournament picks to go through: France (winners) and Denmark (runners-up)

GROUP D

Games Score Lawro’s prediction Tuesday, 26 June Iceland v Croatia x-x 0-0 Tuesday, 26 June Nigeria v Argentina x-x 0-2

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Iceland v Croatia (Tuesday, 26 June at Rostov Arena, Rostov-on-Don. 19:00 BST)

Iceland finished above Croatia in qualifying, and they need to beat them here to have a chance of joining them in the last 16.

Croatia are likely to make changes, but I just have a feeling Iceland will miss out somehow. It will not be for a lack of effort, though.

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Nigeria v Argentina (Tuesday, 26 June at Krestovsky Stadium, Saint Petersburg. 19:00 BST)

I still think Argentina will make it out of Group D, despite their disastrous result against Croatia.

I am not surprised at the reports the Argentina players have had a meeting and called for manager Jorge Sampaoli to be sacked – they were all over the show tactically in that game.

So, something could be brewing there, and it might just bring the best out of Lionel Messi and Sergio Aguero.

I think Argentina will win, but whether that will be enough for them is out of their hands.

Nigeria’s fate is under their own control, and they may feel they only need a point to progress.

I am not sure that will help them here. They are at their best if they go on the attack, but they seem unwilling to do so.

Lawro’s pre-tournament picks to go through: Argentina (winners) and Croatia (runners-up)

GROUP E

Games Score Lawro’s prediction Wednesday, 27 June Serbia v Brazil x-x 0-2 Wednesday, 27 June Switzerland v Costa Rica x-x 1-0

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Serbia v Brazil (Wednesday, 27 June at Otkrytie Arena, Moscow. 19:00 BST)

Brazil left it late to make the breakthrough against Costa Rica, but they had played really well in the second half of that game – and the goals were definitely coming.

They should find it easier going forward in this game, because Serbia need to win or they are out. That is exactly the kind of scenario that Brazil want.

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Switzerland v Costa Rica (Wednesday, 27 June at Nizhny Novgorod Stadium, Nizhny Novgorod. 19:00 BST)

Switzerland have impressed me so far, with the way they kept Brazil quiet and then fought back to beat Serbia, but I am not surprised that they are doing well.

They are a team that is greater than the sum of its parts, they are extremely well-coached and they always have a real go too. They will be too strong for Costa Rica.

Lawro’s pre-tournament picks to go through: Brazil (winners) and Switzerland (runners-up)

GROUP F

Games Score Lawro’s prediction Wednesday, 27 June South Korea v Germany x-x 0-2 Wednesday, 27 June Mexico v Sweden x-x 1-0

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South Korea v Germany (Wednesday, 27 June at Kazan Arena, Kazan. 15:00 BST)

I could not believe how bad Germany were against Mexico but they showed why they are world champions with the way they rescued themselves so late with their win over Sweden.

They surely won’t have any more slip-ups this time, against a South Korea side who have been beaten in both their games so far.

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Mexico v Sweden (Wednesday, 27 June at Central Stadium, Yekaterinburg. 15:00 BST)

Sweden are probably still wondering how they lost to Germany – a draw would have been enough for them here if they had held on for a few seconds longer.

Now they need to beat a Mexico side who look lethal on the break. I am sure Sweden will not just go gung-ho from the start, because they are far more measured than that, but this is a difficult task for them.

Lawro’s pre-tournament picks to go through: Germany (winners) and Mexico (runners-up)

GROUP G

Games Score Lawro’s prediction Thursday, 28 June England v Belgium x-x 1-0 Thursday, 28 June Panama v Tunisia x-x 0-1

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England v Belgium (Thursday, 28 June at Kaliningrad Stadium, Kaliningrad. 19:00 BST)

I thought England would beat Panama, but they did it in some style. It was a very impressive performance.

Belgium also scored some goals as they put Tunisia away, but they still look a bit disjointed to me, especially compared to how England are playing together, and the best 11 players do not always make the best team.

I think England have got more balance to their strongest line-up, and I also think they will win – although a big factor will be how many changes both managers make.

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Panama v Tunisia (Thursday, 28 June at Mordovia Arena, Saransk. 19:00 BST)

This is a dead rubber, and a final chance for both teams to get off the mark. Tunisia have offered far more than Panama going forward, but that is not exactly difficult.

Lawro’s pre-tournament picks to go through: Belgium (winners) and England (runners-up)

GROUP H

Games Score Lawro’s prediction Thursday, 28 June Japan v Poland x-x 0-2 Thursday, 28 June Senegal v Colombia x-x 1-1

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Japan v Poland (Thursday, 28 June at Volgograd Arena, Volgograd. 15:00 BST)

This group has proved the most difficult to call so far, and Japan have surprised me the most.

They only need a point to be sure of going through – but if Poland play the way they can, then they should win.

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Senegal v Colombia (Thursday, 28 June at Samara Arena, Samara. 19:00 BST)

Senegal also only need a point to go through and, although Japan caused them more problems than I expected in their draw on Sunday, I think they will get it.

What I would say it that, whoever England end up playing in the last 16, I would be confident they will win.

Lawro’s pre-tournament picks to go through: Colombia (winners) and Poland (runners-up)

BBC Sport – Football

'Argentina's situation might bring best out of Messi' – Lawro's predictions for final group games was originally published on 365 Football

[365footballorg-blog]

Can Ronaldo do it again? Lawro's predictions for second group games

World Cup 2018 on the BBC Host: Russia Dates: 14 June – 15 July Live: Coverage across BBC TV, BBC Radio and BBC Sport website with further coverage on Red Button, Connected TVs and mobile app.

This World Cup has seen plenty of surprise results in the opening games, but will they continue?

BBC Sport football expert Mark Lawrenson said: “Some of the big teams have stuttered so far but I think you can put that down to it being so early in the tournament – it is going to happen.

“The biggest surprise was probably seeing Germany beaten by Mexico, because they are normally strong at the start of major finals, but I am expecting to see them improve, and it is the same with the likes of Brazil and Argentina.

Lawro is predicting the outcome of all 64 games at the 2018 Fifa World Cup.

The second round of group games includes Germany v Sweden – which is live on BBC Radio 5 live – plus Argentina v Croatia and England v Panama – both live on BBC TV and BBC Radio 5 live.

Before the group stage started, Lawro picked his two teams to go through from each group into the knockout stage. He is backing Brazil to win the World Cup, and believes England will reach the quarter-finals.

Lawro was speaking to BBC Sport’s Chris Bevan in Moscow.

Group A

Games Score Lawro’s prediction Tuesday, 19 June Russia v Egypt x-x 2-0 Friday, 15 June Uruguay v Saudi Arabia x-x 2-0

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Russia v Egypt (Tuesday, 19 June at Krestovsky Stadium, St Petersburg. 19:00 BST)

Scoring five goals in their opening game was probably beyond Russia’s wildest dreams and on the back of that win, they will be full of confidence.

I fancy them to win this one, too.

Once he was passed fit, Egypt had to play Mohamed Salah, because if Russia win this game, and Uruguay beat Saudi Arabia – as I expect them to – Egypt will be out.

He will have to be careful, though, because the Russia players will target his injured shoulder.

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Uruguay v Saudi Arabia (Wednesday, 20 June at Rostov Arena, Rostov-on-Don. 16:00 BST)

Uruguay stuttered against Egypt, especially Luis Suarez, but they still got the win.

Suarez would normally have put the chances he had away, but they still got the three points and, if you don’t play well but still win your first game at a World Cup, then it is a massive lift.

Saudi Arabia were poor against Russia and they will need a huge improvement to get anything out of this game. I don’t see it happening.

Lawro’s pre-tournament picks to go through: Uruguay (winners) and Russia (runners-up)

GROUP B

Games Score Lawro’s prediction Wednesday, 20 June Portugal v Morocco x-x 1-0 Wednesday, 20 June Iran v Spain x-x 0-2

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Portugal v Morocco (Wednesday, 20 June at Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow. 13:00 BST)

Morocco were beaten by a late Iran goal in their opener but, even before that, they had looked unconvincing.

Meanwhile, Portugal’s game against Spain was a cracker, with Cristiano Ronaldo obviously doing his bit.

It was a sensational game but I think people went a bit overboard with their reaction to Ronaldo’s performance, though. His last-gasp free-kick to make it 3-3 was magnificent, but his first goal was a penalty and his second was down to a howler by David de Gea.

What I would say about Ronaldo is that he is a big-game player, and he never seems to disappoint in a big game. You always get a big end product from him.

Although it was a great result for Portugal they still have work to do to make the last 16. They really need to win this game, and I think they will edge it.

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Iran v Spain (Wednesday, 20 June at Kazan Arena, Kazan. 19:00 BST)

Spain’s draw with Portugal will feel like a defeat after they conceded an equaliser so late in the game.

But you know Spain are a quality side when you go through the team and watching them play just underlines it.

Iran gave everything against Morocco and ended up pinching the points, but I fear they might get absolutely passed to death by the Spanish.

Lawro’s pre-tournament picks to go through: Spain (winners) and Portugal (runners-up)

GROUP C

Games Score Lawro’s prediction Thursday, 21 June Denmark v Australia x-x 1-1 Thursday, 21 June France v Peru x-x 2-0

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Denmark v Australia (Thursday, 21 June at Samara Arena, Samara. 13:00 BST)

I was at Australia’s defeat by France and I thought the Socceroos were great and a little unlucky to lose – I actually didn’t think the VAR penalty that resulted in France’s score their first goal should have been given.

Australia will have a gameplan and, again, will give everything, and I think they will get something out of this game. I don’t think a draw is a bad result for Denmark, though.

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France v Peru (Thursday, 21 June at Central Stadium, Yekaterinburg. 16:00 BST)

It is difficult to know what to make of France. Their front three had three chances in the first six minutes against Australia and they looked dangerous but, after that, they just completely lost their way.

France did not need an extra holding player alongside N’Golo Kante, I thought both of their full-backs looked very ordinary, and they looked nervous too – although the fact they won will help on that score.

Peru gave Denmark a real game and I would like to think they will be as attack-minded again. The problem for them is that they might be up against a very different France.

Lawro’s pre-tournament picks to go through: France (winners) and Denmark (runners-up)

GROUP D

Games Score Lawro’s prediction Thursday, 21 June Argentina v Croatia x-x 1-0 Friday, 22 June Nigeria v Iceland x-x 1-1

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Argentina v Croatia (Thursday, 21 June at Nizhny Novgorod Stadium, Nizhny Novgorod. 19:00 BST)

I am at this game and expecting a big improvement from Argentina.

You do not expect to see Lionel Messi miss a penalty but, on top of that, they could not get past Iceland’s massed defence on Saturday.

I think that game was a little bit of a wake-up call for them, I also think they will have more joy against Croatia, who are not going to pack their defence in the same way.

Croatia won their opening game easily enough, although I thought Nigeria were pretty average against them.

Like Argentina, Croatia’s strength is going forward, and they have quality in midfield too. That’s why I am expecting a more open game – and I am also expecting Argentina to win.

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Nigeria v Iceland (Friday, 22 June at Kaliningrad Stadium, Kaliningrad. 16:00 BST)

This is very interesting – and on paper could be a classic World Cup group game.

It’s a game both teams will probably need to win to make the last 16, and Nigeria definitely can’t afford to lose it after opening with a defeat.

We know what Iceland’s usual approach is – they are disciplined and defensive – but they might be tempted to open up a bit and go for the win that could be enough to send them through. It will also be interesting to see how Nigeria try to break them down.

Lawro’s pre-tournament picks to go through: Argentina (winners) and Croatia (runners-up)

GROUP E

Games Score Lawro’s prediction Friday, 22 June Brazil v Costa Rica x-x 2-0 Friday, 22 June Serbia v Switzerland x-x 1-1

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Brazil v Costa Rica (Friday, 22 June at Krestovsky Stadium, Saint Petersburg. 13:00 BST)

Brazil had enough chances to beat Switzerland but I still think they will get through the group despite starting with a draw.

There are some areas where they need to improve, though. Whether Neymar is fit or not, he needs to be more of a team player – as talented an individual as he is, this game needs to less about him.

Costa Rica need to get something out of this game after losing to Serbia, but I don’t think they will.

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Serbia v Switzerland (Friday, 22 June at Kaliningrad Stadium, Kaliningrad. 19:00 BST)

Serbia have three points in the bag after beating Costa Rica but this is a very different test for them.

Switzerland frustrated Brazil and annoyed Neymar on Sunday and I liked the way they were set up in that game.

They were allowed to be physical against Brazilians – it is in the laws of the game – but they also carried a threat.

This is a tough one to call, but it is likely to decide who goes through to the last 16 along with Brazil.

Lawro’s pre-tournament picks to go through: Brazil (winners) and Switzerland (runners-up)

GROUP F

Games Score Lawro’s prediction Saturday, 23 June South Korea v Mexico x-x 0-1 Saturday, 23 June Germany v Sweden x-x 2-0

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South Korea v Mexico (Saturday, 23 June at Rostov Arena, Rostov-on-Don. 16:00 BST)

Mexico were hugely impressive in their win against Germany. They clearly did their homework, and had the quality to punish the world champions as well.

In contrast, South Korea were disappointing in their defeat by Sweden and they will need to offer much more of a threat in this game if they are going to turn that bad start around.

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Germany v Sweden (Saturday, 23 June at Fisht Olympic Stadium, Sochi. 19:00 BST)

The result is much more important than the performance for Germany here, but they will need to show a big improvement if they are going to get a much-needed win.

To do that, Joachim Low needs to come up with a plan, though, because we know how good Sweden are defensively and they will be happy with a draw after winning their first match.

So, the pressure is on, but there is a reason why Germany are the best team in the world – they don’t have too many setbacks, and they usually respond pretty quickly when they do.

Lawro’s pre-tournament picks to go through: Germany (winners) and Mexico (runners-up)

GROUP G

Games Score Lawro’s prediction Saturday, 23 June Belgium v Tunisia x-x 1-0 Sunday, 24 June England v Panama x-x 3-0

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Belgium v Tunisia (Saturday, 23 June at Otkrytie Arena, Moscow. 13:00 BST)

Belgium had to wait to make the breakthrough against Panama but they ended up comfortable winners, and I can see this game being a similar story.

They did not play brilliantly on Monday, but the quality of the first two goals Belgium scored showed the class they have in their team – and that will make the difference against Tunisia too.

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England v Panama (Sunday, 24 June at Nizhny Novgorod Stadium, Nizhny Novgorod. 13:00 BST)

I expected England to beat Tunisia and although they left it very late, they definitely deserved to win.

Their late winner will lift a lot of the pressure off the England players and, having seen Panama play Belgium first hand, I do not foresee any problems for Gareth Southgate’s team.

When I was at their game against Belgium in Sochi, I saw that Panama will give everything they have got, but we also saw their limitations as a team.

England should beat them easily enough and I don’t see them having too many problems, especially after they make the initial breakthrough.

Lawro’s pre-tournament picks to go through: Belgium (winners) and England (runners-up)

GROUP H

Games Score Lawro’s prediction Sunday, 24 June Japan v Senegal x-x 1-1 Sunday, 24 June Poland v Colombia x-x 1-1

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Japan v Senegal (Sunday, 24 June at Central Stadium, Yekaterinburg. 16:00 BST)

Both of these teams surprised me by winning their opening games, although Japan were obviously helped by Colombia conceding a penalty and going down to to 10 men in the first few minutes of their match.

Senegal looked pretty solid at the back until they conceded late on and it will be interesting to see how both teams approach this game, because whoever wins it is probably through.

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Poland v Colombia (Sunday, 24 June at Kazan Arena, Kazan. 19:00 BST)

I thought this game would decide who would win Group H, but now Poland and Colombia face a real scrap to stay in the tournament.

Poland have to get Robert Lewandowski in the game more than they managed against Senegal, while Colombia need James Rodriguez to be fully fit.

It is a game neither side can afford to lose, but both need to win. So I am going for a draw.

Lawro’s pre-tournament picks to go through: Colombia (winners) and Poland (runners-up)

BBC Sport – Football

Can Ronaldo do it again? Lawro's predictions for second group games was originally published on 365 Football

[365footballorg-blog]

Lawro's FA Cup final prediction

You can watch the FA Cup live on BBC One and the BBC Sport website, with coverage starting at 16:10 BST on Saturday.

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho really needs to win the FA Cup final because then he can turn around and say he has had a good season.

If he doesn’t then it has been average. Finishing runners-up in the Premier League is just par for a club the size of United.

With the amount they have spent on players then, if you consider they were a distant second behind Manchester City, it is not the step forward that Mourinho would have wanted for his second year in charge.

United win would set up showdown with City

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United need trophies and so does Mourinho. This is the last game of the season and he signs off for the summer by lifting the FA Cup then the fans will look on him in a different light.

Will they still be moaning about the football being dull and boring if they go and beat Chelsea 2-0 on Saturday and play extremely well? No, they will be thinking that next year, with a couple more players, they will be a much better team.

It would also set up a Community Shield tie against Manchester City for everyone to look forward to ahead of the new season and another showdown between rivals Mourinho and Pep Guardiola.

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A lot of the time the curtain raiser to the new campaign is not much of a contest but that one would be, because it would be another trophy as far as Mourinho is concerned and he would take great pleasure in beating Guardiola too.

Of course United have to get there first, though, and I am not sure it is going to be that easy for them.

Will Lukaku look a little bit leaden?

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I presume Romelu Lukaku will start up front for United but he has not played since he came off injured against Arsenal at the end of April.

At his best he is a key player for United, I think he will enjoy playing against Chelsea’s three centre-halves and will cause them problems if so.

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But he will not have played for 20 days by the time the game kicks off and I think that will affect his performance.

Big strikers like Lukaku need to be playing every week otherwise they lose their sharpness, which will be very important against the Chelsea defence.

My fear is that the Belgian international will look a little bit leaden, so the key to United’s success could be Alexis Sanchez, who has improved of late.

In the FA Cup semi-final against Tottenham he looked like the player we know he can be and United really need a repeat performance from him at Wembley.

United play football with the handbrake on

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If United midfielder Paul Pogba has a good game, then he could be the difference – but it is a big if.

Do you actually think Jose will say to Pogba on the day, before a big game against opponents like Chelsea, “go on, just go out and play – get involved absolutely everywhere”.

If he does, United would have a far better chance of winning, but it won’t happen. With Jose in charge they play football with the handbrake on.

When you are on the autobahn and behind the wheel of a Ferrari, you don’t drive at 60mph, do you?

But that is where United are at, which is why I think Chelsea will win.

A chance for Conte to bow out in style

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I don’t think the result will make any difference to whether Blues manager Antonio Conte stays in his job, he is likely gone either way.

This is like a farewell party for him, and a chance to go out with a bang on a big occasion.

Chelsea’s performances have been poor recently but come Saturday I think their players will have a real go. Even if you don’t like the manager, if you are in a cup final and there is a medal at stake then you are going to give everything you have got.

Willian has been their best player this season and, if he and Eden Hazard play well, they are going to be difficult to stop.

I am not expecting a thrilling encounter, mind you, I have a feeling this is going to be quite a dour game.

That would suit Mourinho in lots of ways, but I just think Chelsea are going to somehow going to come out on top, and allow Conte to say goodbye the way he wants to.

PREDICTION: CHELSEA TO WIN 1-0

Lawro was speaking to BBC Sport’s Chris Bevan.

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Lawro’s Premier League predictions – the final league table

Lawro made a prediction for all 380 Premier League games this season and the final table based on all of his predictions is at the bottom of this page.

In Lawro’s league table, Manchester City finished as champions and he also got the top six in the correct order, as well as Swansea in 18th.

Liverpool did not lose a game in Lawro’s league table for a second successive season, but the former Reds defender insists there is no bias involved.

Lawro said: “I did not know it had happened again until I was told about it recently – but Liverpool are unbeaten in real life too, aren’t they?

“Seriously, though, I don’t pay any attention to the table when I make my predictions.

“The main reason the top teams often stay unbeaten in my table is that I don’t tip any of them to lose very often full-stop – they don’t, so why would I?”

Lawro’s league tables – 2012-13 to 2016-17

2016-17

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2015-16

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2014-15

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2013-14

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2012-13

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Lawro’s predictions correctly saw Manchester United win the title in 2013 and Manchester City in 2014… and again this season

How did Lawro do last week?

From the final day of Premier League fixtures, Lawro got five correct results, with no perfect scores, from 10 matches for a total of 50 points.

He was beaten by England netball head coach Tracey Neville, who got six correct results, including one perfect score, for a total of 90 points.

Total scores after week 38 Lawro 3,410 Guests 2,820

Lawro v Guests P38 W23 D3 L12

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+/- DENOTE POSITION DIFFERENCE BETWEEN LAWRO’S TABLE AND ACTUAL POSITION POS TEAM P W D L PTS +/- 1 Man City 38 31 6 1 99 0 2 Man Utd 38 30 7 1 97 0 3 Tottenham 38 30 7 1 97 0 4 Liverpool 38 23 15 0 84 0 5 Chelsea 38 24 9 5 81 0 6 Arsenal 38 19 13 6 68 0 7 Leicester 38 16 8 14 56 +2 8 Burnley 38 12 12 14 48 -1 9 West Ham 38 10 17 11 47 +4 10 Southampton 38 12 10 16 46 +7 11 Bournemouth 38 11 10 17 43 +1 12 West Brom 38 12 7 19 43 +8 13 Stoke 38 8 13 17 37 +6 14 Crystal Palace 38 9 8 21 35 -3 15 Everton 38 8 11 19 35 -7 16 Newcastle 38 7 10 21 31 -6 17 Brighton 38 4 13 21 25 -2 18 Swansea 38 6 6 26 24 0 19 Watford 38 5 7 26 22 -5 20 Huddersfield 38 2 13 23 19 -4

GUEST LEADERBOARD

SCORE GUEST LEADERBOARD 160 Justin Hawkins, Chris Shiflett 130 James Anderson*, Joe Johnson* 120 Russel Leetch*, Will Poulter, Moeen Ali 110 Aron Baynes* 100 Noreen Khan, Cesaro & Seamus, Wretch 32 90 Lawro (average after 37 weeks), John Bishop, Tracey Neville, Arni and Justin from The Vaccines, Pete Wentz 80 John Cena, Darren Campbell 70 Plan B, Brendan Foster*, Mark Strong 60 Jimmy from Django Django, Will Ferrell, Nish Kumar, Non Stanford, Rick Witter 50 Steve Cram, Michael Dapaah, Russell Howard, Channing Tatum, Joe Root, Margot Robbie and Allison Janney, Dario Saric, Osi Umenyiora and Jason Bell, 40 James Bay, Craig David, Ed Lay 30 Elis James, Rhys James, Felix White 20 Charlie Cooper, Richard Osman, Emmanuel Sanders and Josh Norman

* Shows weeks where Lawro had more than one guest, and only the highest score contributed to the guest total.

Lawro’s best score: 170 points (week 30 v Arni and Justin from The Vaccines)

Lawro’s worst score: 40 points (week four v Umenyiora and Bell, week five v Non Stanford, week 21 v Darren Campbell and week 23 v Saric and Baynes)

BBC Sport – Football

Lawro's FA Cup final prediction was originally published on 365 Football

[365footballorg-blog]

Lawro's final day Premier League predictions v England netball head coach Tracey Neville

There is just one relegation place to be decided on the final day of the Premier League season, with Swansea needing a minor miracle to survive at the expense of Southampton.

Can the Welsh side pull it off? BBC Sport’s football expert Mark Lawrenson thinks not, saying: “I expect Swansea to beat Stoke, but not by anywhere near enough for them to stay up.

“For Southampton to be relegated now, they would have to lose to Manchester City while Swansea win, and with a nine-goal swing in goal difference – which is not going to happen.”

Lawro is making predictions for all 380 top-flight games this season, against a variety of guests.

His final guest of the 2017-18 campaign is England netball head coach Tracey Neville.

Tracey, who steered England to gold at the last month’s Commonwealth Games,[1] is the older sister of former England defender and coach Gary Neville, and the twin of England women’s football head coach Phil.

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Tracey grew up supporting the team that both her brothers played for – Manchester United.

“It is United all the way for me – they are true to my heart,” she told BBC Sport. “I do still have a season ticket at Old Trafford but I don’t actually get out to watch them these days – I am probably more of a social supporter.”

Her favourite moment as a United fan is a game both her brothers were involved in – their last-gasp win in the 1999 Champions League final, when Gary played against Bayern Munich at the Nou Camp and Phil was on the bench.

“It’s got to be Barcelona, hasn’t it?” Neville said. “It is weird that it happened in the same way that my moment happened at the Commonwealth Games, coming back from behind to triumph in the last seconds.

“I just remember being away on tour with the England netball team as a player, sat watching it in my hotel room at about 4am.

“My room-mate was in the bed next to mine and, when United’s winner went in, I just remember putting my pillow to my mouth and literally screaming into it so I didn’t wake her up.”

Premier League predictions – week 38 Result Lawro Tracey SUNDAY Burnley v Bournemouth x-x 2-1 0-0 Crystal Palace v West Brom x-x 1-2 0-1 Huddersfield v Arsenal x-x 1-1 0-2 Liverpool v Brighton x-x 2-0 1-2 Man Utd v Watford x-x 2-0 2-0 Newcastle v Chelsea x-x 0-2 2-1 Southampton v Man City x-x 0-2 0-4 Swansea v Stoke x-x 2-0 1-2 Tottenham v Leicester x-x 2-0 1-0 West Ham v Everton x-x 2-0 0-0

A correct result (picking a win, draw or defeat) is worth 10 points. The exact score earns 40 points.

LAWRO’S PREDICTIONS

All kick-offs 15:00 BST.

SUNDAY

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Burnley v Bournemouth

Both of these teams have had good seasons. In fact, Burnley have had an outstanding one.

The Clarets are in Europe already so this result does not really matter, but they will want to end such a successful season on a high with a home win.

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Bournemouth made a bad start, losing their first four games, but after recovering from that, they have never seriously seemed like they are in any real relegation trouble.

Another big positive for the Cherries is their ability to come back in games, and they try to play football as well, which is also a good thing.

You don’t get the sense that they start the season thinking that they just want to avoid relegation any way they can – their mantra seems to be more along the lines of “let’s go and play”.

In comparison, the Clarets are not the most open team – they can be pretty functional – but I think they will come out on top on Sunday.

Lawro’s prediction: 2-1

Tracey’s prediction: Neither team has anything to play for so this could be quite a flat game. 0-0

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Crystal Palace v West Brom

After five games of the season, West Brom were 10th with two wins, two draws and just one defeat, while Crystal Palace were bottom with zero points. What a contrast there has been in their results since then.

What I like about Palace goes beyond the way they have been coached and the way their manager Roy Hodgson has got results. That has all been very impressive, but their success is also down to their fans.

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When they play at Selhurst Park it is really intimidating. It is always noisy and the atmosphere is great, and I don’t think you can say that about too many grounds in the Premier League.

Having said all that, I am going for a surprise here, because I think the Baggies will win.

Their form under caretaker manager Darren Moore has been superb and although they have been relegated since their last match, Saturday’s win over Spurs, I am expecting another strong performance from them here.

Lawro’s prediction: 1-2

Tracey’s prediction: West Brom are down but I still think they will want to put on a good performance for their caretaker manager Darren Moore. 0-1

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Huddersfield v Arsenal

I did not see Huddersfield’s draw with Chelsea on Wednesday coming, same as I did not expect them to get anything at Manchester City on Sunday either.

Those two points against two of the top five teams in the country have got the Terriers to safety, and I doff my cap to them because I never fancied them to stay up from day one.

You can see that from the league table below based on my predictions – and I know Huddersfield fans have already noticed that.

But that was because I always thought they were going to get relegated and did not think they had enough to stay up.

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In the last quarter of the season you could see them sinking into the abyss so they deserve immense credit for turning that around and beating the drop.

I am pleased too, because they are what I would call a typical Championship team who got promoted and have had to fight very hard to stay there. The manager, David Wagner, has done a super job.

As for Arsenal, am I surprised that they win 5-0 at home and then follow that by losing 3-1 at Leicester? No, not at all.

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The Gunners are still the only team in the top four tiers of English football not to have earned a single point on the road in 2018, although I do think that will change on Sunday.

There is no way Huddersfield will play with the same intensity now they are safe, and a more open game will suit Arsene Wenger’s side in his final game in charge.

Lawro’s prediction: 1-1

Tracey’s prediction: It is Wenger’s last game so I think Arsenal will do it for their manager. 0-2

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Liverpool v Brighton

Liverpool’s superior goal difference means they only need a point to be sure of finishing above Chelsea and making the top four, and I think the Reds will get the result they need.

Brighton secured their survival by beating Manchester United last Friday night and they are not fighting for anything anymore.

All three promoted teams – Newcastle, Huddersfield and the Seagulls – have stayed up and they have fought hard for it, because all of three of them have barely scratched the top half of the table since the end of November.

Lawro’s prediction: 2-0

Tracey’s prediction: Liverpool have come off a pretty tough campaign and I am backing Brighton here. 1-2

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Man Utd v Watford

It’s been a bit of a strange season for Manchester United, but they are going to finish second and they could win the FA Cup too.

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But Jose Mourinho’s playing style is clearly a major problem for some United fans, and the other big issue is that they don’t look like they are going to be anywhere near Manchester City again next season either.

I am expecting United to win and pass the 80-point mark, which has been enough to win the title in four seasons during the Premier League era, but they never got close to City this year.

Meanwhile, it has been a difficult campaign for Watford and, although they have never really been in danger of relegation, this could be Javi Gracia’s last game in charge of the Hornets.

Lawro’s prediction: 2-0

Tracey’s prediction: I am obviously going for a United win here. 2-0

There has definitely been progress from United under Mourinho, in terms of them being where people want to be, which bodes well for next season.

I’ve done quite a lot of research into Mourinho’s methods as a coach and, as a leader myself in netball, I think there are some things he does that are great to take away. I have already done that to implement them in my sport.

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Newcastle v Chelsea

Chelsea have underachieved this season and I cannot see Antonio Conte being in charge of the Blues at the start of the next campaign.

Unfortunately for Newcastle fans, it is not clear whether Rafa Benitez will still be their manager by then either.

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Benitez has done a great job and he will be happy if he gets some money to spend in the transfer market, so it is a no-brainer to try to keep him, surely.

Newcastle have not picked up another point since they passed the 40-point mark a few weeks ago. They have lost four games in a row, but that doesn’t matter because it is job done – they are safe.

I don’t see the Magpies returning to winning ways on Sunday, either. It would be just like Chelsea to put in a silky performance this week, but they have not done that often enough this season.

Lawro’s prediction: 0-2

Tracey’s prediction: 2-1

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Southampton v Man City

I am expecting City to win, but not by enough goals to send Saints down.

Pep Guardiola’s side have broken the records for most points, most goals and most wins in a Premier League season, but he wants the champions to reach 100 points too.

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I hope they do it, because they deserve it – and I cannot see anyone beating those records for a long time.

The football City have played has been sublime. Yes, the numbers are fantastic but their style of play is what people will remember in years to come.

Lawro’s prediction: 0-2

Tracey’s prediction: I just think City are too good at the moment. 0-4

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Swansea v Stoke

I expect Swansea to win, but not by anywhere near enough for them to stay up. They will be joining Stoke in the Championship next season.

Swans boss Carlos Carvalhal will be leaving at the end of the season. He started well but they have gone eight games without a win, and that is why they are back down at the bottom end of the table.

Lawro’s prediction: 2-0

Tracey’s prediction: Stoke have got a lot to prove following their relegation so I actually think this will be a real battle. I think Swansea will take an early lead but Stoke will come back at them to win. 1-2

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Tottenham v Leicester

Leicester are another club where we do not know whether the manager will stay in his job at the end of the season.

There are 10 Premier League sides whose manager is either definitely leaving, on a short-term contract that ends this summer, or faces an uncertain future because of poor results or relegation: Arsenal, Chelsea, Everton, Leicester, Southampton, Stoke, Swansea, Watford, West Brom and West Ham.

If you count Newcastle manager Rafa Benitez, who may decide he wants to leave if he is not backed financially, and Huddersfield boss David Wagner, who is being touted as a potential replacement for Foxes boss Claude Puel, then that figure is 12 managers who could be leaving out of 20 top-flight clubs.

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That is what the Premier League is like these days, with such a high turnover of managers. It seems a lot of clubs are making a decision almost day-by-day – there is no forward-thinking going on.

If Puel needs to win to keep his job, then I don’t think that will happen.

I am backing Tottenham to win, and Harry Kane to score – he got a hat-trick on the final day of last season.[2]

Lawro’s prediction: 2-0

Tracey’s prediction: Spurs know they are finishing in the top four and I think they will sign off for the season with a win. 1-0

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West Ham v Everton

West Ham boss David Moyes and Everton manager Sam Allardyce are two of the managers I was talking about above.

Both men have done what was asked of them by keeping their sides up after being appointed in mid-season and, while Moyes will get a say in his future, it could be that Everton decide that Allardyce is surplus to requirements.

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It is hard to know what is going on at Everton because there are so many mixed messages coming out of Goodison Park. Allardyce appears adamant he is staying for the final year of his contract, but I don’t think many Toffees fans would be too happy if that happens.

Will either of them be in the Premier League in August? Who knows. But if they aren’t, I would not bet against them getting a job in September or October when a chairman presses the panic button.

In terms of the game, I am going for Moyes to come out on top against his former club.

Lawro’s prediction: 2-0

Tracey’s prediction: I think this will be another flat game. 0-0

Lawro was speaking to BBC Sport’s Chris Bevan.

How did Lawro do in midweek?

From the rearranged midweek Premier League games on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, Lawro got three correct results, with no perfect scores, from six matches for a total of 30 points.

Lawro was up against opponents who had made predictions on FA Cup quarter-final and semi-final weekend. Comedian John Bishop also picked up 20 points after getting two correct results, but BBC Asian Network DJ Noreen Khan did not add to her tally.

Total scores after week 37 Lawro 3,360 Guests 2,730

Lawro v Guests P37 W23 D3 L11

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+/- DENOTE POSITION DIFFERENCE BETWEEN LAWRO’S TABLE AND ACTUAL POSITION POS TEAM P W D L PTS +/- 1 Man City 38 31 6 1 99 0 2 Man Utd 38 30 7 1 97 0 3 Tottenham 38 30 7 1 97 0 4 Liverpool 38 23 15 0 84 0 5 Chelsea 38 24 9 5 81 0 6 Arsenal 38 19 13 6 68 0 7 Leicester 38 16 8 14 56 +2 8 Burnley 38 12 12 14 48 -1 9 West Ham 38 10 17 11 47 +6 10 Southampton 38 12 10 16 46 +7 11 Bournemouth 38 11 10 17 43 +1 12 West Brom 38 12 7 19 43 +7 13 Stoke 38 8 13 17 37 +7 14 Crystal Palace 38 9 8 21 35 -3 15 Everton 38 8 11 19 35 -7 16 Newcastle 38 7 10 21 31 -6 17 Brighton 38 4 13 21 25 -3 18 Swansea 38 6 6 26 24 0 19 Watford 38 5 7 26 22 -6 20 Huddersfield 38 2 13 23 19 -4

GUEST LEADERBOARD

SCORE GUEST LEADERBOARD 160 Justin Hawkins, Chris Shiflett 130 James Anderson*, Joe Johnson* 120 Russel Leetch*, Will Poulter, Moeen Ali 110 Aron Baynes* 100 Noreen Khan, Cesaro & Seamus, Wretch 32 91 Lawro (average after 37 weeks), 90 John Bishop, Arni and Justin from The Vaccines, Pete Wentz 80 John Cena, Darren Campbell 70 Plan B, Brendan Foster*, Mark Strong 60 Jimmy from Django Django, Will Ferrell, Nish Kumar, Non Stanford, Rick Witter 50 Steve Cram, Michael Dapaah, Russell Howard, Channing Tatum, Joe Root, Margot Robbie and Allison Janney, Dario Saric, Osi Umenyiora and Jason Bell, 40 James Bay, Craig David, Ed Lay 30 Elis James, Rhys James, Felix White 20 Charlie Cooper, Richard Osman, Emmanuel Sanders and Josh Norman

* Shows weeks where Lawro had more than one guest, and only the highest score contributed to the guest total.

Lawro’s best score: 170 points (week 30 v Arni and Justin from The Vaccines)

Lawro’s worst score: 40 points (week four v Umenyiora and Bell, week five v Non Stanford, week 21 v Darren Campbell and week 23 v Saric and Baynes)

References

^ gold at the last month’s Commonwealth Games, (www.bbc.co.uk)

^ he got a hat-trick on the final day of last season. (www.bbc.co.uk)

BBC Sport – Football

Lawro's final day Premier League predictions v England netball head coach Tracey Neville was originally published on 365 Football