The new season in Europe is a few weeks away. Will there be a shift in the power balance in Europe from the Premier league to La Liga? Well, Cristiano Ronaldo thinks so, and the odds offered by betting companies do too. They suggest that Barcelona and Real Madrid are the favourites at 5-1, followed by the English teams Chelsea and Manchester United at 7-1, and Liverpool at 10-1. Another possible shift in power may happen within the Premier League, with Manchester City being touted as candidates to break into the top four. Early days, but the team from Manchester have certainly got under their rivals skins already with their ‘Welcome to Manchester’ poster (Manchester City are actually based in Trafford, not Manchester).

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And our first look at the new season through a fan’s eye (with listening activity) – ‘Manchester City’

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PREDICTION

Last week, we focused on the MLS. LA Galaxy travelled to Kansas City and the game ended in a 1-1 draw – the score Damon predicted. 3 points to Damon and zero for Damian, who reckoned Kansas would be 2-1 winners. That puts Damon on 5 points and Damian still on 0.

The summer predictions: Damon 5 – 0 Damian

For this week’s prediction, we visit Turkey, a country that has both European and Asian roots and connections. two of the biggest teams clash, one from the European side of Istanbul, Besiktas, against a team from the Asian side, Fenerbache.

Featured Game

Damon: Besiktas 1-2 Fenerbache – Continued dominance in this fixture by Fernabache.

Damian: Besiktas 0-0 Fenerbache – A boring start to the season.

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FOOTBALL LANGUAGE

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This week’s QUIZ QUESTION:

Manchester United have a banner at their ground with the number of years since their rivals Manchester City have won a cup or title. Manchester City last won a a cup or a title in 1976. What was that honour?

a. The League Championship

b. The FA Cup

c. The UEFA Cup

d. The League Cup

Answer next week.

The answer to last week’s question, ‘Which other team has David Beckham played for on loan was  d) Preston North End.

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This week’s POLL

This week’s poll asks which team do you think will win the 2009 / 10 Premier League? Go to the site, click on your choice in the side bar and leave a comment.

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