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Episode 106: Villa OUT! Arsenal Go To Madrid! Newcastle Hosts Eagles!
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Join Louie Easton, Michał Czarniecki, and Japtej Ghura as they take a look at Aston Villa's great effort against PSG sadly coming up short, Arsenal's upcoming moment of truth in Santiago Bernabeu against Real Madrid, and Newcastle looking to solidify their Champions League position in the league against Crystal Palace.
In this episode, we cover:
🟣 Aston Villa OUT of Champions League after a close finish vs Paris Saint-Germain
💡What's the best survival strategy for The Gunners ahead of Madrid clash?
🔍Newcastle looking to attack the podium in their next Premier League fixture
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Transcript
Introduction
00:00:22
Global Sports Podcast Network
Thank
00:00:44
Global Sports Podcast Network
Hello and welcome back to the Global Sports Podcast Network Daily English Premier League. My name is Louis Easton and joining me today, the ever-present Mikhail Czarniecki.
00:00:57
Global Sports Podcast Network
Good to have you back, mate, as I try and work it how to make this music quieter and now it's gone off. Let's try that again, shall we? You are listening to the Daily English Premier League Podcast on the Global
Champions League Quarterfinals Recap
00:01:06
Global Sports Podcast Network
Sports Podcast Network. My name is Louis Easton and joining me today is the ever-present Mikhail Czarniecki.
00:01:12
Global Sports Podcast Network
How are you doing, mate?
00:01:13
Michał Czarniecki
Ah, pretty good, pretty good. Pretty exciting second legs of Champions League, I'm not going to lie.
00:01:18
Global Sports Podcast Network
And welcome back, Yiptaj. It's been how long? ah Many people who listen to you this probably won't even remember you, but you were first off the season. have got a bit busy, but finally you found some time to get back to the important stuff.
00:01:34
Japtej
Yeah, no, it's good to be back and excited to speak about the Champions League.
00:01:40
Global Sports Podcast Network
Okay, and that's exactly what we're here to do today. ah Last night, we saw PSG scrape past Aston Villa in the quarterfinal of the Champions League. PSG will face either Arsenal or Real Madrid in the semifinals.
00:01:56
Global Sports Podcast Network
um So let's talk about that game. Mikhail, what a quarterfinal.
00:01:59
Michał Czarniecki
Yes.
00:02:01
Global Sports Podcast Network
ah Absolutely amazing. Plenty of chances for both teams. And in the end, it was just one goal in it ah What's your initial reaction to that game?
00:02:11
Michał Czarniecki
Oh, my initial reaction was, my God, was Aston Villa close. And to be honest, I feel so sorry for all of those supporters gathered at Villa Park. Because, ah for example, okay, like in the first half, after Nuno Mendes and Hakimi scored, maybe not necessarily in that order, but still, you know, being 2-0 down, I mean, like, you, Louis, you can relate to that. how i would Like, what it feels like to be, ah you know, have this significant...
00:02:36
Michał Czarniecki
significant difference that you just have to you know somehow catch up to like 2005 of course every single Liverpool fan will remember that and yet there was this spark of Stambool this atmosphere Stambool was in the air and right on cue first okay of course Tillemann scored with like this goal before the break but then McGinn and Konza like two goals in two minutes I've heard that one before two goals in two minutes for Liverpool I think I've heard that before
00:02:40
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:03:00
Global Sports Podcast Network
yeah
00:03:01
Michał Czarniecki
So, yeah. So, basically, it was super
Marcus Rashford's Form Analysis
00:03:03
Michał Czarniecki
close. I really liked Marcus Rashford. Again, like, of course, many many United fans might say, what are you talking about? What? You like Rashford playing? What are you talking about? Yes, of course I did.
00:03:13
Michał Czarniecki
Because he's ah having the time of his life there. um Just, you know, a couple of stats for you there. Marcus Rashford's game by numbers. 12 touches in opposition box. 4 chances created.
00:03:23
Michał Czarniecki
The most out of any Villa player. ah 4 take-ons completed. 2 shots. 2 shots on target. 1 assist. Mwah!
00:03:30
Global Sports Podcast Network
ah I mean, Rashford, definitely, we have seen a new life since he left Manchester United, as often happens with these incredible players. Once they leave Manchester United, they start performing, and this has been the case. ah But didn't get a goal. He had a couple of chances, and...
00:03:48
Global Sports Podcast Network
At times, Yip Tej, I felt that he was a little bit wasteful. He was a bit high risk, high reward. But for him to set up that goal was quite special. What did you make of ah his performances? And are there any other Aston Villa players you'd like to highlight for their performances ah in taking the fight to PSG?
Aston Villa's European Prospects
00:04:06
Japtej
Yeah, I mean, Rashford, I agree with you. First half, he was a bit up and down. but then the second half, I thought his performance was special. Like you mentioned, the assist for Konza was just, you know, a ridiculous, ridiculous assist.
00:04:20
Japtej
I think actually Matty Cash impressed me, you know, coming up against the PSG wingers is no...
00:04:24
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, impressed me as well.
00:04:28
Japtej
no mean feet and he he did a really good job and yeah I mean when it was 5-1 to Villa to PSG on aggregate you really felt that they had no chance I actually even switched over to the Dortmund Barcelona game at that point and I mean I'm i'm surprised how close that they brought it I feel a bit sorry for the squad in Unai Emery because
00:04:41
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, I did as well.
00:04:50
Japtej
you know The season that they've had in Europe, you know they sort of deserved maybe to take it to extra time. But yeah, just a great night. And I'm sure that the fans will never forget that.
00:05:02
Global Sports Podcast Network
And to be honest, there were times when I was looking at Aston Villa's midfield and I just couldn't work out what the positions were. We often have this problem whenever we watch Unai Emery's teams.
00:05:13
Global Sports Podcast Network
ah But, I mean, Kamara was the only one that i really thought... OK, well, I know where he's playing, but Tielemans, McGinn and Morgan Rodgers were a bit all over the place, especially in
PSG's Defensive Strengths
00:05:24
Global Sports Podcast Network
that second half. It just seemed like tactics went out of the window.
00:05:27
Global Sports Podcast Network
I thought um Morgan Rodgers had a pretty difficult second half. I don't know if either of you will agree with me on that, but um I thought he was quite wasteful and he was just making a couple. I mean, I don't know if that comes down to experience or occasion, but ah Morgan Rodgers just didn't really get too much of a...
00:05:47
Global Sports Podcast Network
of a look-in in the second half. And I thought Vitinha for PSG is just, I think he's absolutely unbelievable. We don't really say much about him.
00:05:57
Global Sports Podcast Network
I mean, he's only 25 and he's got a long way still to go in his career. He completed the most passes in the match as well. And he's sort of taken up that Sergio Busquets role in just sort of holding the midfield just in front of the defence and sort of predicting where the ball is going to go. He does a fantastic job of that.
00:06:15
Global Sports Podcast Network
um and And I look at that PSG defense as well. Willian Pacho is someone that's really come into their own this season. But I'd like to talk more about the fullbacks.
00:06:26
Global Sports Podcast Network
Akraf Hakimi, of course, um up and down that right wing, seem to be the real provider of chances. ah and ball carrier for PSG in Villa's third.
00:06:38
Global Sports Podcast Network
But let's talk about Nuno Mendes. I mean, this is just an unbelievable, unbelievable player. We saw him completely lock up against Mosella when they played against Liverpool. ah Open question.
00:06:52
Global Sports Podcast Network
Is Nuno Mendes the best left-back in the world?
00:06:57
Japtej
Yes.
00:06:59
Michał Czarniecki
yeahp
00:06:59
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yes.
00:06:59
Michał Czarniecki
um um i really yeah like I do not think I can offer any kind of argument to that. I mean, I wanted to add to what you said before about Morgan Rogers and how he was just limited in like basically what kind of ah opportunities he was given in the game and what kind of opportunities he created for himself.
00:07:16
Michał Czarniecki
He was really limited there. And well, that's part of Nuno Mendes' work. So, but overall, the entire defense of PSG, okay, just just aside the fact that they conceded three goals, but then again, if you lead by such a big margin on on aggregate but after after the first leg, then, you know, if you concede three goals...
00:07:36
Michał Czarniecki
ah Like, good excuse me, if you concede three goals, then it doesn't really matter because you're still through. And then all of a sudden you just have those, ah let's just say, priorities somehow reshuffled and somehow, you know, regrouped.
00:07:49
Michał Czarniecki
So, yeah, but all things ah all things considered. Nevertheless, those three goals, I really like the defensive posture of PSG in this game.
00:07:58
Global Sports Podcast Network
ah They just looked so organised and sort of outclassed them. I did think that Kvitschka Kovac-Skeliya, I thought that he really struggled towards the
Arsenal's Tactical Dilemmas
00:08:06
Global Sports Podcast Network
end because ah up until stoppage time, Villa were just having all of the ball. And whenever PSG did get into their third, usually courtesy of Atraf Hakimi,
00:08:19
Global Sports Podcast Network
ah It came to Kovac Scalia and he just swung his foot and it went over the bar. It went wide or it was a tame effort. um This wasn't him.
00:08:31
Global Sports Podcast Network
so He wasn't himself, was he at all against Aston Villa? What do you think that came down to?
00:08:36
Japtej
Yeah, I mean, i think a few of their players had a bit and of an off night. Osman Dembele as well, he was quite quiet.
00:08:43
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:08:43
Japtej
I think, you know, with the depth that they've got, some of their forwards can't afford to have these off nights. And obviously with the buffer that they had as well, it didn't end up being too costly. And I think...
00:08:55
Japtej
For some of them as well, it's a case of rising to the occasion in the first leg and in the two legs against Liverpool, they were all up for it. Maybe today coming into the game, knowing that they had this buffer, they didn't have that same necessity to perform at that level. I think if they are up against Arsenal in the next round, especially with the way that Arsenal beat them earlier this season, players like Kravats, Galilos, Van den Velen. I think we'll see them at the level that we're used to.
00:09:24
Japtej
And I don't know, if I was a PSG fan, I wouldn't be too concerned because it's just natural to to sort of lower your guard a bit when you've got such a huge buffer going into a game.
00:09:37
Global Sports Podcast Network
And just looking at Villa for the rest of the season, obviously out of the Champions League now, what a great effort they gave it and what a memorable season being in the Champions League ah for the first ever time in their history since it's been called the Champions League 43 years on from when they beat Bayern Munich in Rotterdam for the 1982 European trophy.
00:09:57
Global Sports Podcast Network
european cup trophy ah For the rest of the season, I suppose the goal really is just Europe. They currently sit at seventh place ah on the same amount of points as Chelsea.
00:10:09
Global Sports Podcast Network
And their last fixtures go as this. Home against Newcastle, away at Man City, away at Crystal Palace, home against Fulham, away at Bournemouth. home at Spurs and away at Manchester United.
00:10:22
Global Sports Podcast Network
However, also still in the f FA Cup. Michal, what do you think for the rest of the season for Villa fans?
00:10:27
Michał Czarniecki
Yes.
00:10:30
Global Sports Podcast Network
ah What would you hope for ah from this Villa team?
00:10:35
Michał Czarniecki
You know what? As you were going through the remaining fixtures in the league, I kind of you know went with a quick analysis. Okay, should I get three points and out of that game or not? And ah once you were done, i my tally stopped at expected 12 points.
00:10:50
Michał Czarniecki
for the rest of the season.
00:10:51
Global Sports Podcast Network
Okay.
00:10:52
Michał Czarniecki
At least 12 points, because I just do not imagine Aston Villa losing to Manchester United. I do not imagine them losing to Crystal Palace. 12 points at least. And 12 points would give them 66 points.
00:11:04
Michał Czarniecki
Of course, like Bournemouth will continue chasing, Fulham will continue chasing, and you know, those all of those other ah competitors above. They will not give up, you know, just, just you know, right as the the season finishes.
00:11:17
Michał Czarniecki
So all in all, those 12 points should give them a comfortable place in Europe. ah has it go been Is it going to be enough for the top three? I doubt it. I think that Manchester City, Chelsea, they will step up a gear for those last fixtures.
00:11:34
Global Sports Podcast Network
It'll be a big, big game against Newcastle because Newcastle are still only two points clear of them and they're in fourth place.
00:11:34
Michał Czarniecki
Yep.
00:11:41
Global Sports Podcast Network
So there could still be hope for Aston Villa.
00:11:42
Michał Czarniecki
Sure.
00:11:45
Global Sports Podcast Network
um Obviously, they'll be playing midweek football next week against Manchester City before they head off to Wembley where they play against Palace in the semifinal. um I think that is...
00:11:57
Global Sports Podcast Network
a match that is really going to be really telling for Villa season. If they get to an FA Cup final, it doesn't matter if they win it or not. I think that's an incredible achievement for Unai Emery. um And let's not forget where Villa were only two years ago. Jupp, do you agree with Mikhail's verdict? what What do you want from Villa for the rest of this season?
00:12:16
Japtej
Yeah, I mean, I don't know if 12 points is ah slightly generous, but then looking at, for example, Chelsea's fixtures, they've still got to play Liverpool, Manchester United, Newcastle, Nottingham Forest.
00:12:29
Japtej
So I think the fight for those top five places in Champions League football is going to be very, very tight. um At least two of, you know, Villa, Chelsea, City, Newcastle and Forest are going to miss out.
00:12:44
Japtej
So I think, I mean, that's really the only thing left to fight for as well in the league. The title's obviously done and relegation's done. So I think it'll be a very tight scrap. It'll be interesting to see how getting kicked out the Champions League affects the squad.
00:12:55
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah. Hmm.
00:12:59
Japtej
I feel like there is no higher or bigger occasion than these Champions League nights. And now that they're out, I wouldn't be surprised if against Newcastle they're slightly dipped because of the adrenaline and just the disappointment.
00:13:14
Japtej
it'll be interesting to see how they recover.
00:13:17
Global Sports Podcast Network
I mean, that FA Cup semi-final is going to be absolutely massive. And I think that will soften the blow. But there is one more team left in the Champions League that is from the Premier League. We'll talk more about them next.
00:14:08
Global Sports Podcast Network
So Arsenal going into this i as replaying. I don't know why it's doing this. I do apologize. Arsenal go to the Santiago Bernabeu stadium tonight. By the time you're listening to this, uh, three nil up.
00:14:24
Global Sports Podcast Network
Now that is unprecedented. I don't think anyone was expecting such a great performance. So dominant from Arsenal and less. So no one was expecting such a showing from Declan Rice.
00:14:38
Global Sports Podcast Network
um they do have such a big advantage going into this game. Mikhail, I'll come to you first. What's the mentality in this game? Do you think it's just to park the bus or is Real Madrid team you just can't park the bus against? Do you think they have to try and win this game in midfield?
00:15:00
Michał Czarniecki
You know, I really have a feeling as if like some sort of like a deja vu, because every time we approach that kind of games and we talk about, OK, should they park the bar or should it be like a midfield battle?
00:15:11
Michał Czarniecki
ah Like we make up, we we can come up with a lot of ah predictions about how Arsenal will be playing, how they will be shaping up, how they would take it how they will be performing against the likes of Moldri Chouameni in midfield.
00:15:26
Michał Czarniecki
ah But then when it comes to the actual game, what we see is the likes of Real Madrid or, for example, Borussia Dortmund in the quarterfinal, the second leg against Barcelona.
00:15:37
Michał Czarniecki
They're just going to um the They just go right into it and they score quick goals. And I think one thing that Arsenal needs to watch out for is a quickly conceded goal.
00:15:48
Michał Czarniecki
And that is just that is a like a huge exclamation mark to my beloved Jakub Kivior. I just hope that he does not make is a commit such a mistake in the first 10 minutes of the game.
00:15:58
Japtej
Thank you.
00:15:59
Michał Czarniecki
you know just I just hope that he'll somehow hold on. And and I really believe in him. And as far as Thomas Partey, Odegaard, and then Declan Rice go... as long as they maintain the same quality and this tactical discipline that they presented at the Emirates, Arsenal should be should calmly proceed to the semifinal against PSG, right? If I remember correctly.
00:16:24
Global Sports Podcast Network
ah Yes, against PSG. So that will be, I think that will be the biggest challenge because PSG are a team that I can see winning the Champions League for the first time in their history this season. I just think the way they're playing is absolutely phenomenal. Now, Arsenal have been ah given a couple of boosts ahead of this game that may put Kivio's place in contention. I do apologise, Michal.
00:16:47
Global Sports Podcast Network
ah Ben White will be available for the game. And so will Thomas Partey, who was the only player to get booked last week against ah against Real Madrid.
00:16:58
Global Sports Podcast Network
Will he play it right back? Will he play in ah midfield? It's yet to be seen.
00:17:02
Michał Czarniecki
you
00:17:04
Global Sports Podcast Network
But so yeahage something I want to ask you now is Who can you see playing up front for Arsenal against Real Madrid? Will it be Mikel Moreno? He had a great bit of luck last time out scoring that goal.
00:17:19
Global Sports Podcast Network
Or will Leandro Trossard be up front? How would you like to see it?
00:17:25
Japtej
um I think I'd probably go with Mourinho because, as you mentioned, he scored. And also that physical factor, if Real Madrid are getting you know set pieces, corners and free kicks, then you know he's a taller man, better to head the ball. But I think really, ah don't really think it's that an important decision for Arsenal. I think it's more about, like you mentioned, asking Mikel how they want to play because,
00:17:53
Japtej
If they are to park the bus, I'm not sure how viable a strategy that is. that They're not really a team who's set up to do that ever, apart from if there may be 1-0 up and it's the 50th, 60th minute in the Premier League.
00:18:08
Japtej
And then they bring on a ah man, make it back five for the last 20, 30 minutes. Going into a game at the Bernabeu from the start, parking the bus, I just don't see that they will do that.
00:18:20
Japtej
And I think that Real Madrid as well, Just the feeling around the club. I've seen a lot of stuff coming out in the media the last week. How confident Real Madrid are.
00:18:30
Japtej
You know, the word remontada has been used a lot in the squad. Now, how much of this is how much of this is true and how much of this is, you know, make-believe is up for debate.
00:18:34
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah. Yeah.
00:18:41
Japtej
But I actually think that if Arsenal go there and they sit back... and let Real Madrid come on to them, you know, with the quality that Real Madrid have in terms of 1v1s, players like Vinicius, Rodrigo, Mbappe, players who can take a long shot, you know, Valverde, Tukomeni, it just seems like an awful strategy.
00:18:59
Japtej
So I think that...
00:19:00
Global Sports Podcast Network
Say his name again.
00:19:02
Japtej
Who's his name?
00:19:02
Global Sports Podcast Network
but say ah Aurelien Tukameni Tuameni Tuameni Tuameni Neither a I, it's all good I've never heard anyone say it before Anyway, sorry, you were saying yeah the yeah These are players that can definitely score
00:19:05
Japtej
Tukomeni. How would you say?
00:19:09
Michał Czarniecki
Too many.
00:19:09
Japtej
Tukomeni. Sorry, I'm not French.
00:19:10
Michał Czarniecki
Yeah.
00:19:12
Japtej
and so ah
00:19:16
Michał Czarniecki
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah. yeah
00:19:18
Japtej
But yeah, I just think that be the wrong strategy. I think that, ah listen, they've got a big enough lead that they can go there and play their football. And yeah, it'll be interesting to see that how the first half goes because if Real Madrid score in the first half, then I think you know the second half will be very tense and you'd be thinking that they can go and turn it around.
00:19:41
Japtej
If Arsenal couldn't shut up sharp and even score in the first half, then, you know, They think that they've got it. And Arsenal have, yeah, they've got to approach this in the right way.
00:19:54
Michał Czarniecki
ah Can I just drop one quick ah stat about the first leg, which could give us an indication of where this conversation should go? Because that is interesting. Arsenal made 115 high-intensity pressures in the final third in the first leg at the Emirates.
00:20:11
Michał Czarniecki
This was more than three times as many as Real Madrid, whose total of 36 was the lowest of any side across this season's quarterfinal first legs. And this what does that tell us?
00:20:23
Michał Czarniecki
I've, yeah.
00:20:23
Global Sports Podcast Network
Well, I think that sort of speaks levels of how Real Madrid ah approach a game.
00:20:24
Michał Czarniecki
yeah
00:20:29
Global Sports Podcast Network
They don't really go out fighting. They sort of just try and outclass them in midfield. I mean, when you look at that midfield, Chiumeni, Bellingham, Valverde, Camavingo obviously suspended for this one.
00:20:41
Global Sports Podcast Network
But that is a team that ah you can't really beat it. I can't think of a better midfield in world football at the moment than that one. um Obviously, they're going to be so motivated going into this game.
00:20:55
Global Sports Podcast Network
And obviously, they're down 3-0. So that could be ah grounds for Remontada. But I just think how important an early goal is in this game.
00:21:07
Global Sports Podcast Network
can't be overstated. That is... ah If they score in the first five minutes, then that's another 85 minutes for Real Madrid to score to. And they do like to get more into the game in the second half. I'm just looking at those fullbacks, though.
00:21:21
Global Sports Podcast Network
ah Lucas Vazquez and Fran Garcia are probably going to be starting. Obviously, Mendy's still out. Daniel Carvajal is still out. um Obviously, Eder Militao is out for the rest of the season as well.
00:21:34
Global Sports Podcast Network
I just... is that That is a place of vulnerability. And I think that's what Arsenal were thinking ah for in that for that first leg. They're not world-class players.
00:21:45
Global Sports Podcast Network
They're in a world-class team, but those aren't world-class players in particular. They can't deal with the press as much. Jupptej is a remontada on the cards for this one. um if They get an early goal.
00:21:57
Global Sports Podcast Network
Can you see Arsenal just make it to the 90 minutes without conceding three?
00:22:02
Japtej
you know what? Maybe it's the hope speaking, but I sort of can see it. I feel as well, something that not many people have spoken about in last week's game. In the first half, you know, it was sort back and forth. Arsenal probably had the edge.
00:22:16
Japtej
But apart from Saka going forward, they didn't pose much threat. And then they obviously scored against Real Madrid with two free kicks. Without those free kicks, it could have been completely different.
00:22:23
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:22:26
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:22:26
Japtej
And Declan Rice has never scored a free kick. So... I don't know how much they still have to offer going forwards tomorrow. So I feel like if Real Madrid can score in the first half, and this Arsenal team have proven year after year that they struggled to hold their nerve three, four years ago against Newcastle when they were fighting for top four, they bottled it.
00:22:48
Japtej
was it two years ago against Southampton and West Ham when they were going for the title, they bottled it.
00:22:52
Global Sports Podcast Network
yeah
00:22:53
Japtej
Every year, this team has proven that when the going gets tough, they struggle. So if they concede an early goal, and I'd class early as just in the first 45 minutes, if they concede in the first half, I think they will bottle it.
00:23:06
Japtej
So let's see.
00:23:07
Global Sports Podcast Network
That's the past the Chelsea fan speaking right there.
00:23:09
Japtej
Yeah. i
00:23:12
Michał Czarniecki
Unbelievable.
00:23:12
Global Sports Podcast Network
That's the bitterness. ah Don't worry, you've won your two Champions Leagues. You don't have to feel too bitter about it.
00:23:17
Japtej
a
00:23:17
Global Sports Podcast Network
But ah ah it's it's going to be such an interesting game, this one. um Definitely one to keep our eye on. Obviously, Bayern versus Inter will be happening at the same time. So we're going to be spoilt for choice once again with the Champions League.
00:23:30
Global Sports Podcast Network
And obviously, whoever wins this one will face PSG. Quick question ah to each of you boys. Firstly, Michal, um who's winning the Champions League and in your opinion at this stage we've seen enough football we've seen how well they played in the first legs um PSG are through looking phenomenal against Villa Barcelona looking equally phenomenal against Dortmund who have you got?
Champions League Predictions
00:23:56
Michał Czarniecki
ah To all the viewers, I hope that you're seeing this gesture. This this is a gesture which means time for some curse throwing because I did throw one curse against...
00:24:05
Global Sports Podcast Network
touch some wood touch some wood it
00:24:07
Michał Czarniecki
But you know why? because i ah but I'm on the record on this podcast saying that Newcastle has as like they have zero chances of claiming any title this season and then they, lo and behold, they won.
00:24:21
Michał Czarniecki
So I'm going to throw a curse right there. PSG is to win the entire Champions League. Let the curse do the trick.
00:24:28
Global Sports Podcast Network
Okay. I don't think that's too controversial. I think I would have said PSG or Barcelona. Yep, Sage, go on.
00:24:34
Japtej
Yeah, I think PSG.
00:24:35
Global Sports Podcast Network
Who have you got? Hmm.
00:24:36
Japtej
I think it'll be a PSG-Barcelona final. And think if you put up those two teams against each other, they're both really good.
00:24:41
Global Sports Podcast Network
Oh, what a final.
00:24:44
Japtej
But I think Barcelona have more flaws. Namely, Lewandowski. You know, he's a bit of a hindrance. I know that he's putting up the numbers. But in terms of defensively, no, listen, Mikel, I speak to quite a few Barcelona fans and they're not happy with him.
00:24:52
Michał Czarniecki
What? Come on.
00:24:58
Japtej
If you if you stack up the two squads and the contribution of each player, I feel like PSG have more across the board. So I'd go with PSG.
00:25:07
Michał Czarniecki
na na na No, I completely disagree.
00:25:08
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, I...
00:25:11
Michał Czarniecki
No, come on. both Number one, look at the stats. Number two, look at the tactical abilities of this man. He doesn't have to appear on the score sheet every single team to every single game to make a contribution. Come on.
00:25:23
Japtej
No, but the thing is, Barcelona fans actually say the opposite, that his only attribute is appearing on the score sheet.
00:25:23
Michał Czarniecki
What is that?
00:25:23
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:25:30
Japtej
When he's not scoring now, and I'm not criticising him as a player of his career, I'm just hoping...
00:25:31
Michał Czarniecki
No.
00:25:34
Global Sports Podcast Network
People have said that over about Mo Salah before as well.
00:25:37
Japtej
No, no, no.
00:25:37
Michał Czarniecki
No.
00:25:38
Japtej
I'm just talking about now in this older age of of his career. he He doesn't offer much off the ball, you know, dropping back defensively in terms of when he's not scoring. Listen, it's just a prediction in terms of what would happen in the final. But I think PSG is stronger than Barcelona.
00:25:53
Global Sports Podcast Network
Okay, that's upset me.
00:25:56
Michał Czarniecki
Absolutely. Absolutely. No, no, no. Shocking. Shocking opinion. and Robert Lewandowski.
00:26:01
Global Sports Podcast Network
You just said that to a Polish person, Jyptage.
00:26:02
Michał Czarniecki
No.
00:26:03
Japtej
Yeah, I regret saying that while he's on the pod.
00:26:03
Global Sports Podcast Network
That's
00:26:04
Michał Czarniecki
Oh, no, no, no, no. No, no, no. You know what? No, no, no But it's not the case of he him being a pole.
00:26:08
Global Sports Podcast Network
that
00:26:10
Michał Czarniecki
like He could be Egyptian for all I care. Just look at the stats. Look at the stats. Okay, Barcelona fans, they are entitled to their opinion. But there are so many instances where, of course, granted, Lewandowski isn't the ah most, ah let's just say, mobile ah player on the pitch out there.
00:26:26
Michał Czarniecki
But he's a typical number nine. What else do you expect from him? he's ah he He is to tap goals in.
00:26:30
Japtej
No. Yeah.
00:26:32
Michał Czarniecki
He's supposed to be the typical German and number nine. German number nine, of course, like you know like Thomas Miller kind of stuff. He is supposed to just appear at the right place at the right time. And everything else that he does on the pitch is a bonus.
00:26:45
Michał Czarniecki
Because, come on, you you mean to tell me that Robert Lewandowski is supposed to be doing the same job that Rafinha is doing on the pitch? Who was actually slacking?
00:26:52
Japtej
no
00:26:52
Global Sports Podcast Network
Well, Rafinha's a winger.
00:26:53
Michał Czarniecki
off go Yeah, but like you know what I mean.
00:26:54
Japtej
yeah
00:26:56
Michał Czarniecki
Lewandowski has got one job. His job is to appear at the right time at the right place, and he's just supposed to deliver goals. If they expect him to be the playmaker, sorry, but you're dreaming.
00:27:02
Global Sports Podcast Network
I mean, to be fair...
00:27:05
Global Sports Podcast Network
I mean, the thing is, Lewandowski, one thing you can say in his defence is he does it when he matters when it matters most.
00:27:10
Japtej
Yeah, I mean, listen, he and he gets the goals, so I'm not trying to be too critical.
00:27:10
Global Sports Podcast Network
I mean, he...
00:27:14
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, he... Against...
00:27:15
Japtej
You asked who I think is going to win the competition, I think PSG.
00:27:19
Michał Czarniecki
Oh, by the way, who scored?
00:27:20
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah...
00:27:21
Michał Czarniecki
No, no. By the way, who scored against Dortmund those two goals in and in the first leg?
00:27:25
Japtej
No, I know, i was i was watching the I was watching the game in Poland.
00:27:25
Global Sports Podcast Network
two goals last week. got a
00:27:30
Japtej
i was watching it in a spot at sports bar and the Polish fans went crazy.
00:27:31
Michał Czarniecki
Thank you.
00:27:33
Japtej
Yeah.
00:27:34
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, two goals for Lewandowski, celebrating against his old club, and of course scoring against Real Madrid in El Clasico earlier this season when they won 4-0 as well. I mean, ah he does it when it matters, but it i mean it depends what you're looking for in a striker, really, I suppose. But um there you go. So, Mikhail saying PSG, Jupptej saying PSG. Just to make it interesting, I'll say Barcelona. Because I looked at Barcelona when they played it against Dortmund and they won in the first leg in Barcelona 4-0.
00:28:04
Global Sports Podcast Network
And I just look at the way they move, the understanding they have in trust they have in each other. um And this is such a young squad, barring Lewandowski. You just think this team is going to get better and better and better.
00:28:20
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah. Lamin-Yamao, how is he doing all of this when he's 17 years old?
00:28:25
Michał Czarniecki
Mm-hmm. Mm-hmm.
00:28:26
Global Sports Podcast Network
Cutting inside, making these incisive passes. its it's It's a beautiful thing to watch. So um I'll say Barcelona just to make it interesting, but it will be either Barcelona PSG, let's be honest.
00:28:39
Japtej
Yeah.
00:28:39
Global Sports Podcast Network
Okay, ah now we have one final match to talk about so in the Premier
Premier League Match Preview: Newcastle vs Crystal Palace
00:28:44
Global Sports Podcast Network
League. We'll brush very quickly over that ah after this short break.
00:29:22
Global Sports Podcast Network
So we've got all caught up. Yeah, it's done it again. We've all got, we've got all caught up talking about the Champions League, but we are the Daily English Premier League podcast. And there is, lo and behold, a Premier League match happening tonight. 7.30 kickoff at St. James's Park, Newcastle United.
00:29:42
Global Sports Podcast Network
Versus Crystal Palace. Now, Crystal Palace have had a bit of a rocky season. They started getting very good in twenty at the start of 2025. Things have become a little bit inconsistent again.
00:29:54
Global Sports Podcast Network
ah This is a game in hand ah that would take them up to 11th if they won. However, if Newcastle win this game, they leapfrog Nottingham Forest. Yes, that they'll leapfrog Nottingham Forest. They've won their last four in the Premier League.
00:30:09
Global Sports Podcast Network
They've obviously got some silverware this season. ah Surely you fancy Newcastle, Michael?
00:30:14
Michał Czarniecki
ah yeah Yeah, I absolutely fancy Newcastle. Okay, but look here here's the situation with the Adi House side, right? and They've already clinched a trophy, so Europe is secured no matter what. With that being said, Champions League is within their grasp.
00:30:28
Michał Czarniecki
So I just cannot imagine any other result than just Newcastle pushing for it until the end of the season. and I really expect Gordon... to have to have some nice display again. I expect Isak to start scoring goals.
00:30:42
Michał Czarniecki
i To be honest, I'm actually a kind of along the Newcastle side that I saw in the Carabao Cup semifinal against Arsenal, which was basically the masterpiece of Eddie Howe's tactic about transitioning from defence to offence, just hitting a far superior team at the break and being successful.
00:31:01
Michał Czarniecki
I would love to see that again. um But then again, maybe against a team like Crystal Palace, maybe i' just... I'm asking for too much, perhaps. So a good showing, good 2-0 victory against Crystal Palace would do.
00:31:14
Global Sports Podcast Network
ah Yep, Sage, obviously a big win for Newcastle at home against Manchester United ah last time out. Crystal Palace went to Manchester in their last time out.
00:31:25
Global Sports Podcast Network
They started the game well, but ended up losing 5-2 against Manchester City. ah Five different goal scorers for Man City as well. um what what What can you expect when watching Crystal Palace at the moment? Because honestly, they're are a different side every time I watch them.
00:31:43
Japtej
Yeah, I mean, ah feel like that's maybe slightly harsh. This was their first loss you know in two months. um So I think that they are they've won like 15 out of the last 18 games or something insane like that.
00:31:58
Global Sports Podcast Network
Good.
00:31:59
Japtej
So I think it'll be a bit closer than than maybe what people think. I think Newcastle probably will win. And also something that we've not mentioned... in the race for the top five is that Newcastle have a game in hand over all the teams around them.
00:32:14
Japtej
And the form that they're in is just blistering. You know, they're running through teams. Eddie Howe should be back in the dugout. I feel like, yeah, they'll they'll get the win.
00:32:21
Global Sports Podcast Network
and like good
00:32:23
Japtej
And listen, I think they're one of the teams who are nailed on for the Champions League. I think Liverpool, Arsenal and Newcastle are the three who have definitely got it.
00:32:34
Japtej
So, yeah, I expect Newcastle to win.
00:32:38
Global Sports Podcast Network
One thing I will ah like to mention about Newcastle, obviously um Gordon didn't play last, well, he didn't start last time. ah um And Harvey Barnes has been a fantastic substitution. He's got eight goals this season and three assists.
00:32:51
Global Sports Podcast Network
But I'd love to look at that midfield because I look at that midfield three of Newcastle, Joe Linton, Tonali and Gimoresh. How many better midfielders, but midfields are there in the entire league? I mean, maybe Liverpool with Grevenberg, McAllister and Saboslay.
00:33:09
Global Sports Podcast Network
um Arsenal, when they have a fully fit midfield is fantastic. But Newcastle, the way they play in that midfield, they offer a bit of everything. Mikael, how important has Sandro Tonali been to this Newcastle side since he came back from his suspension?
00:33:19
Michał Czarniecki
Yes.
00:33:25
Michał Czarniecki
oh To be honest, massive. I think it was it had like a massive contribution to how Newcastle played. And I mean, you know, last five games and and and and four victories, 56 points clear with a game at hand.
00:33:37
Michał Czarniecki
I really expect Sandro Tonali there to make another great appearance. um Just, you know, fingers crossed. like Like I said, I would love to see that nice, but like refreshing Newcastle performance yet again.
00:33:49
Michał Czarniecki
I saw it against Manchester United. it wasn't good for me, though.
00:33:55
Global Sports Podcast Network
ah Yeah, that was, well, that's kind of what you've had all season, really, as a Manchester United fan. You'll be pleased to know that we're not doing another podcast on them um at the
00:34:01
Michał Czarniecki
Yeah.
00:34:04
Michał Czarniecki
Yeah. Yes,
Newcastle's Squad Challenges
00:34:05
Global Sports Podcast Network
moment.
00:34:05
Michał Czarniecki
please.
00:34:05
Global Sports Podcast Network
But one final point I'd like to make on Newcastle, Yiptaj. How well have they coped without Lewis Hall? Because Livermento and Trippier are both very capable players at filling in at left back. But it just doesn't seem like anything has changed.
00:34:21
Japtej
Yeah, I mean, well, that's what you've got with the quality and depth. I mean, Livermanto, I think he's one of the best young fullbacks in the country. So I don't think it's too surprising.
00:34:30
Global Sports Podcast Network
It's shame.
00:34:31
Japtej
I think really it's a testament to the way that they've built this squad. you know They've got real quality across the whole squad. It's interesting that we're talking about Tenali a little bit because he is under investigation again a new gambling spree whatever.
00:34:47
Japtej
So, i mean, there's a chance that he could get suspended for a very long time again.
00:34:49
Global Sports Podcast Network
shame
00:34:52
Global Sports Podcast Network
Oh for goodness sake.
00:34:52
Japtej
Yeah... ah
00:34:55
Global Sports Podcast Network
I didn't know about this. I didn't know about- I mean, that is- I mean, come on.
00:34:57
Japtej
yeah Yeah, it'll be interesting to see how that one goes. i mean, he's a brilliant player, but obviously if it is the case that he gets found guilty, then that'll be a big problem for them. But we'll see how that one goes.
00:35:10
Global Sports Podcast Network
Ugh, that's so annoying. Like, should it it's your own money, do what you want with it, that's what I think. is You're not actually doing anything illegal.
00:35:17
Japtej
Yeah, I mean, yeah, but as a footballer, can you be betting on games that you're, you know, indirectly or directly involved with? I would,
00:35:26
Global Sports Podcast Network
I think so.
00:35:27
Michał Czarniecki
ah Louis, that's match fixing, match fixing a alert.
00:35:27
Global Sports Podcast Network
It either gives you motivation. No, no, no, listen. Hear me out. Hear me out. Hear me out. Hear me out, boys. One thing I will say ah about that. With the yellow card thing, red card thing, fair enough. I understand that sort of thing.
00:35:42
Global Sports Podcast Network
However, if it's for a team to win, like your own team to win, surely that's fine. But if it's your own team to lose... ah softens the blow.
00:35:53
Global Sports Podcast Network
Come on, that will help you sleep at night.
00:35:55
Japtej
yeah i
00:35:55
Global Sports Podcast Network
It's like, oh, what a painful loss. At least I'll get my 50 grand or whatever they bit whatever they're betting on. But i just come on, man.
00:36:05
Japtej
mean i'll have this debate with eddie howe and see what he says
00:36:05
Global Sports Podcast Network
that's That's my opinion of it.
00:36:10
Michał Czarniecki
Ha ha ha ha
00:36:11
Global Sports Podcast Network
You make a valid point there, Yiptaj. Okay, so Newcastle kicking off against Crystal Palace half an hour before the rest of the Champions League games.
Conclusion
00:36:20
Global Sports Podcast Network
I say the rest, they're not they're not in the Champions League.
00:36:23
Global Sports Podcast Network
ah Half an hour before the Champions League games. ah So plenty of football and we've got even more European football in the Europa League and the Conference League on Thursday night.
00:36:34
Global Sports Podcast Network
ah We'll talk about that very soon. But you have been listening to the Daily English Premier League podcast. My name is Louis Easton. Thank you very much. Very grateful to have you here. And a massive welcome back to Jupptej. Hopefully we'll have you ah in one that's not a few months' time.
00:36:49
Global Sports Podcast Network
Hopefully before then. And of course, the ever-present Mikhail Shaniachki. Thank you very much for joining as well.
00:36:56
Michał Czarniecki
Thank you.
00:36:56
Global Sports Podcast Network
Hope you enjoy all the football. Take care and we'll see you soon.
00:37:35
Global Sports Podcast Network
so