In football, upsets are always a possibility, and every week brings surprises. While it’s difficult to predict exactly which matches will see the unexpected, several factors — such as team form, injuries, and tactical matchups — could set the stage for some potential upsets this week. Here’s a look at potential matches where upsets could happen, based on the form of teams, historical patterns, and key matchups:
1. Leicester City vs. Manchester United (Premier League)
- Why it could be an upset:
Leicester City is currently battling relegation, but they have shown flashes of quality, especially in attack with James Maddison and Harvey Barnes. Manchester United, on the other hand, has been inconsistent, with a shaky defense and midfield issues. If Leicester can capitalize on United’s defensive vulnerabilities, this could be a potential upset. - Prediction: Leicester City could shock United, especially if they manage to exploit their defensive gaps and pressure their midfield.
2. West Ham United vs. Liverpool (Premier League)
- Why it could be an upset:
West Ham is in poor form, but Liverpool has been struggling with injuries and defensive frailties. Despite their attacking talent, Liverpool has dropped points in recent weeks to teams in the lower half of the table, and West Ham has often been difficult to break down in their own stadium. A fired-up Declan Rice could inspire West Ham to frustrate Liverpool’s attack. - Prediction: West Ham United could pull off a surprise win if they take advantage of Liverpool’s defensive issues and play with high intensity.
3. Borussia Dortmund vs. RB Leipzig (Bundesliga)
- Why it could be an upset:
Borussia Dortmund has been up and down this season, while RB Leipzig has been in good form, sitting near the top of the table. However, Dortmund has the attacking quality to cause problems, and if Jude Bellingham and Giovanni Reyna are on form, they could catch Leipzig off guard. Leipzig’s defense has been shaky at times, which makes them susceptible to fast counters. - Prediction: Borussia Dortmund could cause an upset, particularly if they execute a high-pressing game and capitalize on Leipzig’s mistakes.
4. Sevilla vs. Real Madrid (La Liga)
- Why it could be an upset:
Sevilla has been inconsistent but remains dangerous, particularly at home. Real Madrid, despite being a top contender for the La Liga title, has shown signs of vulnerability in recent weeks, with injuries and fatigue creeping into their game. Sevilla could frustrate them with their strong defensive organization and counter-attacking threat, making it possible for them to pull off an unexpected result. - Prediction: Sevilla could earn a point or even a win, especially if Karim Benzema or Vinícius Júnior struggle to find their rhythm.
5. Southampton vs. Chelsea (Premier League)
- Why it could be an upset:
Southampton is battling relegation, but they’ve had a few surprising results this season, especially at home. Chelsea, under Frank Lampard, has been far from convincing, and they are yet to find consistent form after a big summer of signings. If Southampton can press high and exploit Chelsea’s defensive issues, they could grab an unexpected result. - Prediction: Southampton might pull off an upset, particularly if Chelsea’s attack fails to click and their defense remains shaky.
6. Napoli vs. Atalanta (Serie A)
- Why it could be an upset:
Napoli has been brilliant this season and is leading Serie A, but Atalanta is a team that thrives on being unpredictable and dangerous in attack. Atalanta is capable of pulling off big performances against stronger sides. Napoli’s high-flying form could be put to the test if they’re caught on the counter, as Atalanta has the pace and precision to exploit spaces. - Prediction: Atalanta could cause an upset if they hit Napoli on the counter and exploit any defensive lapses.
7. Real Sociedad vs. Barcelona (La Liga)
- Why it could be an upset:
Real Sociedad has been solid this season and is difficult to break down, especially at home. Barcelona has been good, but not flawless. Despite Robert Lewandowski’s brilliance, the team has sometimes lacked fluidity, and they are vulnerable when under pressure. Real Sociedad’s pressing style could disrupt Barcelona’s buildup play. - Prediction: Real Sociedad might take advantage of Barcelona’s vulnerabilities and grab a point, or potentially even all three.
8. Villarreal vs. Atlético Madrid (La Liga)
- Why it could be an upset:
Villarreal is a well-organized team that has often caused problems for higher-ranked teams. Atletico Madrid has been solid defensively, but their attack has been inconsistent. If Villarreal can neutralize Antoine Griezmann and take advantage of any slackness in Atletico’s defense, they could cause a surprise. - Prediction: Villarreal could snatch a win if they take advantage of Atletico’s attacking struggles.
9. Aston Villa vs. Manchester City (Premier League)
- Why it could be an upset:
While Manchester City is in great form, Aston Villa has been improving under Unai Emery and has been difficult to break down. Villa has shown they can compete with top teams, and their midfield, led by Douglas Luiz and Emiliano Buendía, could create problems for City’s defense. If Villa manages to frustrate Haaland and hit on the counter, they might cause an upset. - Prediction: Aston Villa could cause a shock, especially if Manchester City gets complacent or doesn’t take their chances.
10. Bayer Leverkusen vs. Bayern Munich (Bundesliga)
- Why it could be an upset:
Bayer Leverkusen has been in great form recently and is a dangerous opponent for any team. While Bayern Munich has a strong squad, they have shown some vulnerabilities in defense, and Leverkusen’s attacking threat could expose that. If Florian Wirtz and Moussa Diaby are on form, Leverkusen could take down Bayern. - Prediction: Bayer Leverkusen has a real chance of upsetting Bayern Munich, especially if they can exploit Bayern’s defensive frailties.