With a return to club football this weekend after the international break, fans are in for a treat with some of the biggest fixtures across Europe’s major leagues. From the battle at the top in Ligue 1 between A.S. Monaco and Lille to heavyweight clashes in the Premier League and Serie A, it’s set to be a blockbuster weekend packed with adrenaline, drama and plenty of excitement. Here’s a look at some of the key matchups to watch.
A.S. Monaco vs Lille
Stade Louis II
19:45 (GMT+1), 18-10-24
Top-of-the-table A.S. Monaco return to Ligue 1 action after an impressive unbeaten start to the season (W6, D1). With 19 points accumulated, their current form is reminiscent of their 1960/61 campaign, where they went on to claim their first top-flight title. Monaco’s home form has been pivotal, winning seven of their last eight league games at Stade Louis II.
Their opponent Lille are fifth on the table, having built some momentum themselves with three consecutive wins, including a significant 1-0 victory over Real Madrid in the Champions League. However, Lille’s record against Monaco isn’t favorable, having failed to win any of their last 12 league visits to Stade Louis II (D7, L5). Manager Bruno Génésio will aim to end that streak, but Monaco’s form will make it a daunting task.
Tottenham Hotspur vs West Ham United
Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
12:30 (GMT+1), 19-10-24
Tottenham Hotspur have struggled to find consistent form this season, registering their worst seven-game start to a Premier League season in 16 years (W3, D1, L3). Promising victories have been followed by disappointing performances, such as the recent 3-2 loss to Brighton after leading 2-0 at half-time, which was described by their coach as “the worst” of his tenure. Tottenham’s inconsistency could be partly attributed to the psychological impact of their fluctuating results, such as the 3-0 win at Old Trafford that may have led to overconfidence. The upcoming match presents an opportunity to bounce back and avoid complacency.
West Ham United meanwhile, have had their share of struggles but lack the moments of brilliance Tottenham have shown. Despite defeating Ipswich 4-1 before the international break, West Ham still have room to improve. However, they’ve been a different side on the road, remaining undefeated in all three Premier League away trips (W1, D2). Manager Julen Lopetegui, who reportedly turned down the chance to manage Tottenham in 2021, can be hopeful of more points, especially given their success at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium last December.
Bayer Leverkusen vs Eintracht Frankfurt
Bay Arena
14:30 (GMT+1), 19-10-24
Bayer Leverkusen will be looking to return to winning ways after consecutive draws before the international break, including a frustrating match against Bayern Munich where they let a lead slip. Currently three points off the top of the Bundesliga, Leverkusen’s clash with third-placed Eintracht Frankfurt will test their title ambitions. The hosts boast an impressive home record, winning their last nine meetings against Frankfurt at the Bay Arena.
Eintracht Frankfurt, on the other hand, have enjoyed a strong start to their Bundesliga campaign, their best since 2012/13. While they come into this match as underdogs, their high-scoring away performances could pose a challenge for Leverkusen. Both sides are in good form, and with Frankfurt only losing once this season, this could be a closely contested match.
Juventus vs Lazio
Allianz Stadium
19:45 (GMT+1), 19-10-24
Juventus were left frustrated by a late penalty against Cagliari before the international break, a draw that denied them three consecutive victories in Serie A. Manager Thiago Motta has overseen a run of four draws in their last five matches, with his side struggling to close out games at home (D3). Juventus will need an early breakthrough if they are to snap this winless run at Allianz Stadium.
Lazio meanwhile, are flying high after a 2-1 win over Empoli, their fourth consecutive victory across all competitions. With two away wins on the bounce, Lazio are hoping to claim three straight away victories for the first time since 2019. However, their poor record at Allianz Stadium in their last eight visits could make this a tall order.
Liverpool vs Chelsea
Anfield
16:30 (GMT+1), 20-10-24
Premier League leaders Liverpool will face Chelsea in what promises to be the standout clash of the weekend. Liverpool come into this match on the back of an impressive start to the season, bolstered by solid defensive performances. Their home form at Anfield remains a key factor in their dominance, especially after their recent 1-0 win over Crystal Palace before the international break.
Chelsea who are currently fourth, are in strong form under manager Enzo Maresca, who has guided them to an unbeaten run after an opening-day loss to Manchester City. However, with some key players missing in defense, Chelsea face a tough challenge against a Liverpool side determined to maintain their position at the top.
A.S. Roma vs Inter Milan
Stadio Olimpico
19:45 (GMT+1), 20-10-24
A.S. Roma host Inter Milan at Stadio Olimpico in what promises to be a tense Serie A battle. Inter, sitting second in the table with 14 points, are in great form with three consecutive wins, while Roma, ranked ninth, have struggled with inconsistency. Despite this, Roma will be hoping to use their home advantage to pull off an upset.
Inter Milan’s attacking firepower has been on full display, with the team averaging over two goals per game in their last six away matches. Roma, on the other hand, have managed three wins in their last six home league matches (W3, 2L, 1 D), though their defensive frailties will be tested by an in-form Inter side.