Preview Stand: Manchester United and Liverpool Seek First Premier League Wins; Real Madrid Aim for Three Straight League Victories

Welcome to the third edition of the Preview Stand for the 2026-27 season. This article covers important world football matches from August 29 to August 30 Beijing time:

August 29 02:30 Bundesliga Bayern Munich vs Stuttgart

Bayern Munich have won their last six matches against Stuttgart, including a 3-0 victory in last season's German Cup final, scoring 21 goals during that run and winning by large margins in almost every match. It should be noted that Bayern have lost only once in their last 16 matches against Stuttgart. Last weekend, Bayern defeated Borussia Dortmund 2-1 in the German Super Cup final to claim their first trophy of the new season, making a strong start to 2026-27. Bayern have been very dominant in the Bundesliga in recent years, and even though Stuttgart have some quality, it will be difficult for them to seriously threaten the Bavarian giants. In attack, Bayern continue to rely on Olise, Diaz and Kane, the trio that scored 100 goals last season, and they have already started firing this season, with Olise scoring and assisting against Dortmund. It is worth mentioning that Stuttgart forward Pecinovic scored a hat-trick in last weekend's German Cup match, which could pose a threat to Bayern's defense.

August 29 03:00 Premier League Crystal Palace vs Manchester City

Manchester City have lost only once in their last 10 matches against Crystal Palace, and in Premier League matches alone they are unbeaten in their last nine meetings with six wins and three draws. At Crystal Palace's home ground, Manchester City have recorded nine wins and three draws in their last 12 visits. In the opening round of this Premier League season, both teams had average performances: Crystal Palace lost 0-2 away to Everton, while Manchester City narrowly came from behind to beat Bournemouth 2-1 at home. Manchester City are likely to remain in inconsistent form, with attacking players such as Semenyo, Haaland and Marmoush still without goals after two matches and needing to open their accounts soon. The 18-year-old prospect Abu could make his debut for the Sky Blues. For Crystal Palace, Mateta's physical presence is expected to cause major problems for Manchester City's defense.

August 29 19:30 Premier League Liverpool vs Nottingham Forest

In recent years, Liverpool's home ground has become one of Nottingham Forest's favorite venues, with the Reds losing to Forest at Anfield in two consecutive seasons. Before that, Liverpool had never lost three straight home matches against this opponent. In the Premier League opening round, Liverpool narrowly drew 2-2 away with Newcastle United to avoid an opening defeat. Nottingham Forest are no longer the dark horse that frightens Premier League giants, having lost both home matches this season. In this game, Liverpool forward Ekitike remains sidelined through injury, while the team hopes Isak can rediscover his former scoring form. New signing Munoz could make his first Premier League start. For Nottingham Forest, Igor Jesus and Wood, who performed well last season, are the biggest threats to Liverpool's defense.

August 30 21:00 Premier League Chelsea vs Brighton

Brighton have been regarded as Chelsea's bogey team in recent years, with the Blues suffering four consecutive defeats in this fixture. Both teams have performed reasonably well this season. Chelsea won 3-2 away against west London rivals Fulham in the Premier League opening round, while Brighton thrashed Aston Villa 4-0 at home. This match is expected to be another high-scoring contest, as the previous seven meetings between the two sides have all produced at least three goals. Chelsea new signing Rogers has adapted quickly, scoring in the Premier League opener and showing why he was worth a transfer fee of more than 100 million. Pedro and Palmer, who were inconsistent in the second half of last season, appear to have regained form. For Brighton, Hinshelwood, who scored twice in the opening league match, will be closely monitored by Chelsea.

August 30 23:00 La Liga Real Madrid vs Malaga

Real Madrid have lost only once in their last 36 matches against Malaga, and in their last 11 meetings they have recorded nine wins and two draws, with a completely one-sided head-to-head record. Real Madrid have looked unconvincing at times this season but have still started the league with two consecutive wins. Malaga, as a promoted team, are winless after two matches. In this match, Real Madrid's record signing Diomande is still hoping to score his first goal; if he continues to struggle, the pressure on him will increase. Team star Mbappe returned to form in the midweek La Liga rescheduled match with a hat-trick, while Bellingham, who provided two assists, is also in good shape. With Real Madrid's attack firing and Malaga struggling, manager Mourinho could lead the team to a big win at the Bernabeu.

August 30 23:30 Premier League Manchester United vs Ipswich Town

Manchester City have recorded six wins and two draws in their last eight matches against Ipswich Town. However, Manchester United have had a poor start this season, losing 0-2 away to promoted side Hull City in the league opener and going four matches without a win including friendlies. Ipswich are in better form, winning consecutive matches while competing in both league and League Cup fixtures. In this match, Manchester United must win after returning home, otherwise manager Carrick will face widespread criticism. In attack, the team will continue to rely on last season's attacking quartet of Cunha, Sesko, Mbeumo and B. Fernandes, while Rashford's return provides more possibilities. Ipswich's players are in good form and have the ability to secure points.

(Original article by Sohu Sports, Gerard)