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Guinea-born Ilaix Moriba opens Barcelona goal account in La Liga win over Osasuna

The 18-year-old came off the bench to seal maximum points for the Blaugrana after benefitting from Lionel Messi's assist

Guinea midfielder Ilaix Moriba broke his La Liga and Barcelona duck with the second goal in their 2-0 victory over Osasuna on Saturday.

The Conakry-born youngster replaced Sergio Busquets in the 67th minute for his third league appearance for Ronald Koeman's side and he capped it off with a memorable effort at the Estadio El Sadar.

Lionel Messi laid an assist for Ilaix Moriba to wrap up a crucial away win for Barcelona in the 83rd minute, after Jordi Alba opened the scoring in the 30th minute.

He made his Barcelona debut in January during a Copa del Rey fixture Cornella and Saturday's strike made the teenager the youngest player to score from outside the box in La Liga this season, at the age of 18 years and 46 days.

Koeman, in his reaction, described the 18-year-old as one of the future of Barcelona alongside Pedri and Rigui Puig.

"Ilaix scored a goal in a difficult match, with 0-2 we killed off the game. Every time Moriba enters the pitch he brings something extra,” the Dutch manager said after the match.

"Players like Pedri, Ilaix, Riqui, Araújo and Mingueza are the future of the club.

"The substitution of Umtiti has been tactical. We wanted to be in better control.

"Ilaix is young, but is physically very strong. He's gaining ground to be with the first team more often.

"The derby in Madrid? The most important thing is our result. But of course we're interested in it. Any result would be good.

"It's very important that Barça will have a President again.

"We're proud to be able to bring in young home-grown players. But we are not doing it because the fans want it, we're doing it because they deserve it."

The victory moved Barcelona two points behind La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid who still have two games in hand, with the Madrid derby scheduled for Sunday.

Original author: Taiye Taiwo

'Never count them out' – Real Madrid can still win La Liga, says club legend Hierro

The Madrid derby will have huge implications for the title race in Spain and Los Blancos could particularly do with winning on Sunday

Real Madrid legend Fernando Hierro has backed his former club to remain in the Liga title race until the very end as Los Blancos prepare to face cross-town rivals Atletico Madrid.

Diego Simeone's side are five points clear at the top of the table with a game in hand but inconsistent form has allowed Zinedine Zidane's side back into the hunt in recent weeks.

Atleti have won only two of their last six matches in all competitions and Hierro, who won five league titles and played over 500 games for Real Madrid, believes that the battle for La Liga will go right to the wire.

What has been said?

Asked whether his old side can still win the league, Hierro told Goal: “Honestly, yes. I do. I have lived the experience myself. I remember losing a big game and then narrowly winning the title on the 38th matchday.

“The [points] difference isn't as big as it seems, although a result can swing the balance in favour of one side. The football calendar is tough on both teams and it all depends on if the squads can stay fit as the season evolves.

“What matters is how the squad feels and injuries can play a key part. We will see how all that evolves towards the end of the season. Those injuries could have the biggest effect on this title.

“It is an important game, especially because Real Madrid could shorten the distance quite a lot with a victory. It is very level and it will be a good game.

“Knowing Madrid as I do, I would never count them out until the end of the season. It is interesting because all the big teams have to play each other still, with Barcelona, Sevilla and Atletico Madrid all involved in the race.”

How are the teams shaping up?

An extraordinary run of fitness issues has plagued both Madrid sides of late, but Sunday's visitors will be buoyed by the fact that Karim Benzema has returned to the squad.

Eden Hazard, Sergio Ramos, Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao and Mariano Diaz, meanwhile, remain sidelined.

For Atletico, Kieran Trippier could return after completing a 10-match ban, as could Yannick Carrasco, while Jose Maria Gimenez is set to miss out.

Further reading

Original author: Nizaar Kinsella

Sacko seals Denizlispor’s triumph over Tetteh’s Yeni Malatyaspor

With the tough encounter heading for a draw, the Malian winger handed the Roosters all points at stake against Hamza Hamzaoglu’s men

Hadi Sacko was Denizlispor’s hero having inspired them to a 3-2 triumph over Yeni Malatyaspor in Saturday’s Turkish Super Lig encounter.

With the game heading for a 2-2 draw at the Denizli Ataturk Stadium, the Mali international settled the tight encounter 10 minutes before full time.

Having bowed 3-0 at Besiktas their last time out, the Roosters faced Hamza Hamzaoglu’s side with the ambition of sealing all points at stake –  a result which would ease their relegation worries – but they were pegged down by Stephen Mallan’s 16th minute strike.

Collecting a pass from Mustafa Eskihellac, the former Scotland youth international drilled the ball past goalkeeper Cenk Gonen from close range.

That lead lasted for 15 minutes as the hosts equalised through Hugo Rodallega. The Colombian forward curled a beautiful past goalkeeper Ertac Ozbir at the edge of Malatyaspor’s goal area.

A minute before the half time break, they took the lead courtesy of Turkish midfielder Recep Niyaz who controlled a pass from Muris Mesanovic before slotting the ball past onrushing Gonen.

In the 77th minute, Benjamin Tetteh brought YMS to level terms with a simple tap in after goalkeeper Ozbir had fumbled a header from Adem Buyuk.

Nonetheless, it was Sacko who had the final say after rifling home a Rodallega pass to the delight of his teammates. The goal was his second in the 2020-21 campaign.

The 26-year-old African was substituted for Oguz Yilmaz in the 83rd minute while Tunisian defender Ayman Ben Mohamed was in action from start to finish. Whereas, Togolese midfielder Matthieu Dossevi was an unused substitute.

Egypt's Karim Hafez, Morocco's Issam Chebake, Zimbabwe's Teenage Hadebe and Tetteh played from start to finish for the visiting side.

Cote d'Ivoire's Moryke Fofana replaced Mustafa Eskihellac in the 64th minute but Congo's Jody Lukoki and Mali's Aly Malle played no role in the five-goal thriller.

Even at this result, Denizlispor remain in the relegation waters with just 24 points from 27 outings but Yeni Malatyaspor occupy the 13th spot with 31 points with a game more.

Sacko would be aiming to add to his goal tally when his club take on Gaziantep FK on March 14.

Original author: Shina Oludare

Guardiola says Man City earned respect by always competing for Premier League title while other champions struggle

City have never finished outside the top two in their title defences while rivals over the past decade have failed to make the Champions League places

Pep Guardiola believes that Manchester City have earned respect as a top club because of their ability to regularly compete for trophies.

His side can take a huge step towards a third Premier League title in four years with victory over second-placed Manchester United at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.

City are already in the Carabao Cup final, the quarter-finals of the FA Cup and have a 2-0 first-leg lead over Borussia Monchengladbach in their last-16 Champions League clash.

What's been said?

"The nicest thing this club has done in the last decade is that every time we won the title, the next season we were there," Guardiola said ahead of the Manchester derby. "The lowest position was second after winning.

"You see other champions, they fight to qualify for the top four and that means [we have] the consistency of being there all the time. It doesn't matter the competition, being there and win and win, that is when you become a club that is respected.

"One title you can win it, but being there for a long time - that is when I'm proud of the club the most, not just with my period in the last decade, always being there on top. Arriving in April and March, being in all the competitions, semi-finals and fighting for the Premier League.

"Hopefully, in the quarter-finals of the Champions League [this year], but even qualifying for the Champions League next season, this means you are considered a top, top club."

How have Premier League champions performed?

Last season's champions Liverpool are currently seventh in the Premier League and face a battle to secure a place in next year's Champions League, sitting four points behind Chelsea.

Chelsea in 2017-18 and 2015-16, Leicester in 2016-17, and Manchester United in 2013-14 all missed out on the top four the year after they won the title.

City, meanwhile, are the only club in 12 years to win back-to-back titles with success in 2017-18 and 2018-19, and have qualified for the Champions League for 10 successive seasons.

What's next for City?

Guardiola's side could move 17 points clear of United with 10 matches remaining with a victory over Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side on Sunday.

They can extend their advantage when they face out-of-form Southampton at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday in a match brought forward because of their Carabao Cup final date with Tottenham in April.

After a trip to relegation-threatened Fulham, they head into the international break with the second leg against Monchengladbach at the Etihad followed by an FA Cup quarter-final at Everton.

More reading

Original author: Jonathan Smith

U20 Afcon: Ghana beat Uganda 2-0 to lift fourth title

The Satellites recovered from a low start to ensure they conquered Africa once again

A brace from Daniel Afriyie was what Ghana needed to defeat Uganda in the Africa U20 Cup of Nations final at the Olympic Stadium in Nouakchott on Saturday night.

It was the debutants who settled fast and had a massive opportunity to score the opening goal after just three minutes. He received a long ball, held off Frank Assinki but with the goalkeeper to beat he blasted the ball over.

In the 11th minute, the East Africans survived a scare as their opponents struck the woodwork twice from a corner.

The Ghanaians looked hungry for an opening goal and attacked with every opportunity they got. On the other hand, the Ugandans gave as much as they received hoping they would get their opponents on counter attack.

In the 17th minute, the former champions won a free-kick in a good area. Uzair Alhassan took it but goalkeeper Jack Komakech had no problem collecting the ball.

The Satellites took the lead after 21 minutes when Afriyie beat Kenneth Ssemakula to the ball from a corner, giving the goalkeeper no chance.

The Hippos had a chance to equalise when their opponents conceded a free-kick from 25 yards. Isma Mugulusi took it but it went just as far as the wall.

In the 50th minute, Ghana doubled their advantage. Striker Percious Boah outpaced the Hippos defenders before setting up the advancing Afriyie who wasted no time in completing his brace.

It was a goal that eased the pressure for the Ghanains as Uganda looked frustrated after conceding.

It is the fourth title for the Satellites. In 1993, they won their first title after beating Cameroon in the final. Hosts of the 1999 edition, the Satellites handed Nigeria a 1-0 defeat in the final. 

In 2009, Ghana, having won the sub-regional Wafu Zone B Cup, beat Cameroon once again to lift the trophy before going on to rule the world. 

Ghana XI: Danlad Ibrahim, Philomon Baffour, Frank Kwabena Assinki, Emmanuel Essiam, Percious Boah, Daniel Afriyie Barnieh, Mohammed Sulemana, Patrick Mensah, Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, Samuel Abbey-Ashie Quaye, Uzair Alhassan

Uganda XI: Jack Komakech, Abdu Azizi Kayondo, Musa Ramathan, Gavin Kizito, Kenneth Ssemakula, Steven Sserwadda, Isma Mugulusi, Ivan Asaba, Richard Basangwa, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Derrick Kakooza

Original author: Seth Willis

'If it were against Bayern, the referee would have whistled' - Reus rages after Dortmund defeat

The forward believes Bayern's crucial third goal would have been ruled out had it been the other way around

Marco Reus couldn’t hide his fury with the officials after Borussia Dortmund slipped to a late 4-2 defeat against Bayern Munich on Saturday.

Dortmund looked set to secure a well-earned point at the Allianz Arena before Leon Goretzka drilled Bayern in front with two minutes remaining.

Reus, though, felt the referee should have blown for foul in the build-up and questioned whether the official would have come to the same conclusion had it been the other way around.

What happened in Der Klassiker?

Dortmund made the perfect start with Erling Haaland striking twice within the first nine minutes.

Robert Lewandowski tapped home Leroy Sane’s cross to bring Bayern back into the game, before levelling from the spot shortly before half-time.

Goretzka then put Bayern ahead for the first time in the match before Lewandowski completed his hat-trick moments later to send the Bavarian giants back to the top of the table.

What did Reus say?

Dortmund felt there was a foul on Emre Can by Leroy Sane before Bayern's third goal.

“For me it is a clear foul," he told Sky Germany.

“I’ll be honest: If it were against Bayern, the referee would have whistled 100 per cent. It is like that. Nothing to add.”

Muller responds

Thomas Muller played down the incident when told about Reus’ comments. “I don’t think we want such tackles to be blown for fouls at the halfway line,” he said. “Otherwise it would be stop-start.

“I wouldn’t have seen it as a foul against us either, you can believe me or not. There is nothing worse than when everything is always blown the same way.”

Further reading

Original author: Goal

'We are in the right direction' - Orlando Pirates coach Zinnbauer pleased after Chippa United win

The 50-year-old tactician has now turned his attention to their clash with two-time Caf Champions League winners Setif

Orlando Pirates head coach Josef Zinnbauer feels the Soweto giants are on the right track following their emphatic win over Chippa United on Saturday evening. 

The Buccaneers proved too strong for the Chilli Boys as they secured a 3-0 win in the PSL encounter which took place at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.

As a result, the Buccaneers moved up to second place on the league standings - a point behind leaders, Mamelodi Sundowns, who have four games in hand. 

Zinnbauer was pleased with the performance of his charges on the night and he was happy to see Deon Hotto and Ben Motshwari score. 

"The work the team did today was very good. In terms of the defence and especially in the first-half," Zinnbauer told SuperSport TV.

"Also in the offence. And you see now Hotto scored again, Ben is starting now as a midfielder to score. I'm very happy about this.

"And the strikers. Gaba [Frank Mhango] came in and Tshego [Tshegofatso Mabasa]. It was time. They were long out. We had other players on the field today and they scored and I'm very happy about this."

The Buccaneers won two league matches in a row for the first time this season having defeated Bloemfontein Celtic 1-0 in midweek.

The German tactician revealed that he told his charges to save their energy for their Caf Confederation Cup encounter against Algerian side ES Setif on Wednesday.

"In the first-half 100%. Second half we start very well. We did just what we want. We spoke about this at half-time, about the counter-attack, be calm, go back," he added. 

"Drop a little bit more, stay compact and play the counter. We had a big chance. [Vincent] Pule had to score at this moment. But it was a good save from the keeper.

"We are in the right direction. We told the players to save their energy for Wednesday's game. And the players made this very easy."

The Buccaneers will start their Group A campaign against Setif at Accra Sports Stadium in Ghana.

 

Original author: Austin Ditlhobolo

Haaland cleared to play crunch Champions League clash for Dortmund despite Klassiker knock

The young Norwegian's afternoon was cut short early after clashing with Jerome Boateng, who was also hurt later in the match

Erling Haaland's early withdrawal from Borussia Dortmund's Klassiker defeat at the hands of Bayern Munich will not prevent him from taking on Sevilla in the Champions League, according to coach Edin Terzic. 

The Norwegian took his Bundesliga tally to 19 in 2020-21 with two goals inside the opening 10 minutes at the Allianz Arena, only to see Bayern fight back to win the clash 4-2. 

Haaland was forced to watch the last two goals from the sidelines, having been substituted in some discomfort an hour in after tangling with Jerome Boateng. 

What was said? 

"[Haaland] has signaled that it is not a big problem," Terzic explained to reporters after the final whistle. 

The trainer described Haaland's complaint as "a small blow," and answered in the affirmative when asked if he would be available against Sevilla on Tuesday. 

Terzic did suggest that the youngster could benefit from a rest: "Erling has been playing every game for weeks, we have to protect him a bit."

Boateng's situation

The Bayern defender was also hurt later in the game and, according to Hansi Flick, could face some time on the sidelines due to a knee problem. 

"He said he thought he twisted it," Flick told Sky after his side's win, which lifted them back to the top of the table. 

The bigger picture

Bayern continue to lead the Bundesliga with a two-point advantage over nearest rivals RB Leipzig, who ran out 3-0 winners over Freiburg on Saturday; while Dortmund languish down in sixth. 

Dortmund are favourites to progress to the quarter-final stage of the Champions League, having downed Sevilla 3-2 in Spain thanks to a double from Haaland. 

The second leg of that last-16 tie will be played on Tuesday, while Bayern take on Lazio on March 17 holding a virtually unassailable 4-1 lead from the opener.

Further reading 

Original author: Goal

Chawinga: Tabitha joins Malawian sister Temwa at Wuhan

The Scorchers have reunited for the first time at the same club following the departure of one sister from Jiangsu Suning

Chinese Women's Super League side Wuhan have completed the signing of Malawi striker Tabitha Chawinga, on a two-year deal.

The Wuhan-based outfit has sealed the acquisition of the Malawi international, having become a free agent following parting ways with rivals Jiangsu Suning.

Since her record-breaking move to Jiangsu in 2018, the 24-year-old helped the Chinese club to a quadruple in 2019 and was named back-to-back CWSL Player of the Year in 2018 and 2019.

Following the financial situation at Jiangsu, Tabitha decided to part ways with the former champions and to reunite with her sister Temwa for the first time at club level since 2017 at Wuhan.

“Finally I have flown back to China to start pre-season training with the new team, the 2020 Chinese Women’s Super League Champions, Wuhan Jiangda," Tabitha confirmed in a Facebook post.

“After the Jiangsu Sunning group of companies have stopped sponsoring the Jiangsu football teams, I mutually parted ways with them and agreed on terms with Wuhan Jiangda for 2 years with an option of an extension.”

On rejoining her sister Temwa, the former Kvarnsvedens star is excited about her move and is eager to excel with the Chinese champions.

“I am looking forward to teaming up with my sister and new teammates. The new season starts probably next month,” she said.

“I am thankful for Jiangsu Sunning for the platform and everything when I first came to China. I won many titles and individual trophies with them."

In the build-up to the new season, the DD Sunshine product confirmed her return to China, while she awaits her sister's reunion at Wuhan.

“Wuhan Jiangda is the team which my sister Temwa plays for and she will be joining me in a week’s time after her travel was delayed due to air ticket complications,” she concluded.

Having reunited, the Chawinga sisters will be hoping to help Wuhan retain their domestic crown and challenge for individual awards.

Original author: Samuel Ahmadu

Adarabioyo confident Fulham can get a result at Liverpool

Scott Parker's side will be focused on boosting their fight against relegation when they visit the Reds who have lost their last five home games

Tosin Adarabioyo believes Fulham can be confident ahead of Sunday’s trip to Liverpool based on their 1-1 draw back in December.

The Cottagers were close to defeating Jurgen Klopp's men on December 13 but Mohamed Salah's 79th-minute strike from the penalty spot denied them maximum points.

Fulham travel to Anfield on Sunday with the hope of bouncing back to winning ways after Thursday’s 1-0 loss against Tottenham Hotspur.

Adarabioyo who has been a regular fixture in Scott Parker’s team this season is upbeat about their chances despite Liverpool’s ‘great’ attacking threat.

"Liverpool are still the Premier League champions so you've got to respect that. We've got to go out there and put on a show and try to get a performance,” Adarabioyo told Sky Sports.

"I feel like we can take a lot of confidence from that game [the reverse fixture in December]. We went out there and played our game, we had a lot of opportunities and the game could have gone either way really.

"We were winning 1-0 for quite a while in the game before the end so that can give us a lot of confidence to go to Anfield and try and get a good result.

"We know how offensive Liverpool are and what a great attack they have so it's just trying our best to nullify them."

Adarabioyo only joined Fulham on a permanent deal from Manchester City in October and he has defended his decision to chase regular first-team football.

The player of Nigerian descent also reviewed his previous loan stints away from the Etihad Stadium in the Championship.

"I had full belief [to be able to perform in the Premier League]. I know the qualities that I have and I know I'm able to perform in this league and I'm showing that now,” he continued.

"I learnt from some great players at Manchester City. They gave me a lot of tips that helped me push on to this day.

"West Brom was a more difficult loan spell but Blackburn was a great platform to show myself and show everybody else what I'm capable of. I gained some confidence and it helped me push on this season.

"I just knew I had to get out and play regular football and I knew this club was the right place to come to. I came to Fulham because the opportunity to work with the gaffer and his staff was a big positive.”

Original author: Taiye Taiwo

De Bruyne explains Chelsea exit & surprise at becoming a superstar with Man City

The Belgium international midfielder has become a global superstar, but admits he was at a career low when heading out of Stamford Bridge

Kevin De Bruyne has been explaining his reasons for walking away from Chelsea, with the Belgian admitting that he never expected to a become superstar at Manchester City.

The Belgian midfielder severed ties with those at Stamford Bridge in January 2014, having previously headed through the exits to take in a loan spell at Werder Bremen in 2012-13.

His stock soared in German football, having struggled to make an impact in west London, and he admits to having hit a career low as he bid farewell to England.

What has been said?

De Bruyne has told Sky Sports on his reasons for leaving Chelsea: “I decided to go away because I felt I didn’t have any chances of playing at the time.

“I didn’t see more opportunities coming so for me, it was the best decision to leave Chelsea and go to a situation where I felt I could start again.

“Did I expect it to go this way? Obviously not because at that time it was a low point in my career but I never had any doubt in my abilities as a football player.

“I can't think what is going to happen eight years down the line playing for City, in World Cups and all that stuff. It’s wonderful.”

How many games did De Bruyne play for Chelsea?

Chelsea put a deal in place for a highly-rated playmaker during the winter transfer window of 2011.

A five-and-a-half-year contract was signed, but it quickly became apparent that De Bruyne was going to struggle for game time under Jose Mourinho.

After taking in a stint with Bremen, just nine appearances were taken in across all competitions during the 2013-14 campaign.

He linked up with Wolfsburg midway through that season and sought to put a forgettable stint with Premier League heavyweights behind him.

How much did De Bruyne cost Man City?

After three productive years in the Bundesliga, De Bruyne started to register on recruitment radars across Europe once more.

He was eventually snapped up by City for a club-record £55 million ($76m) in the summer of 2015.

De Bruyne has starred for the Blues and will make his 250th appearance for the club if he figures in a derby date with Manchester United on Sunday – with 60 goals and 105 assists recorded across those outings.

The 29-year-old reigning PFA Player of the Year has helped City to two Premier League titles and domestic cup triumphs during his time in Manchester, with a historic quadruple still on the cards for Pep Guardiola’s side in 2020-21.

Further reading

Original author: Chris Burton

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Mngqithi 'thanks' Covid-19 for stunning win over TP Mazembe

The Pretoria club is aiming for a second Champions League triumph, having won the competition in 2016 under previous coach Pitso Mosimane

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi concedes the absence of fans at the Stade du TP Mazembe in Lubumbashi played a part in his side's 2-1 win over DR Congo giants TP Mazembe in a Caf Champions League Group B encounter on Saturday evening.

Downs scored first through Peter Shalulile in the 67th minute but suffered a setback six minutes later when Ricardo Nascimento was red-carded.

The hosts equalised through legendary striker Tresor Mputu in the 82nd minute, before Lyle Lakay blazed home a free kick in added time to stun the five-time Champions League-winning club.

Mngqithi feels that the fact that the stands were not packed as they usually would have been, helped his side.

"First one should thank Covid-19 because with your supporters, it's always different," he told the local media in Lubumbashi after the game.

"When your stadium is full, you always give a very good account of yourself.

"So the fact that we played with maybe a not so full stadium. But I must also not take credit away from the team," he continued.

"We knew we were playing against a very good team. But our confidence is very high. We've played 23 matches now and not lost a match.

"The boys fought very hard. There were some circumstances within the game that were very difficult for the boys."

The Masandawana coach also said he thought his side should have scored three goals after Themba Zwane's 38th-minute effort off the woodwork was ruled not to have crossed the line. Replays suggested Mngqithi had a case.

"I would also like to know whether the goal that was scored in the first half was not a goal. I don't know what was the reason for it not to count, because in my mind, I think we scored three goals today," he said.

The victory in the DR Congo means the South African side has a perfect record in Group B with three wins from three matches, following victories over CR Belouizdad and Al-Hilal. The other three clubs each have two points from their three matches.

Sundowns, the 2016 Champions League winners, have scored nine goals and conceded just two.

Leicester City start Iheanacho and Ndidi against Tau’s Brighton & Hove Albion

Having found the net against Burnley, the ex-Manchester City forward will lead the Foxes’ frontline alongside Jamie Vardy against the Seagulls

Kelechi Iheanacho and Wilfred Ndidi have been named in Leicester City’s starting XI that will take on Brighton & Hove Albion in Saturday’s Premier League encounter.

The duo combined to hand Brendan Rodgers’ men a 1-1 draw at Burnley the last time out.

Against the Seagulls, the Foxes will be counting on the Nigerians to wreak havoc against their hosts at the Falmer Stadium.

In a 3-1-4-2 formation, Ndidi will play in a defensive midfield position while his compatriot will partner Jamie Vardy up front.

Ghana international Daniel Amartey will partner Turkey international Caglar Soyuncu and Wesley Fofana to cover goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel. South African Khanye Leshabela is on the bench for City.

On the other end, South Africa international Percy Tau would be hoping to feature in his third English top-flight game for Graham Potter’s men as a substitute, while Malian midfielder Yves Bissouma will anchor Brighton's midfield alongside Pascal Gross, Alexis Mac Allister, Adam Lallana and Leandro Trossard.

An away win for the King Power Stadium giants would boost their ambitions of booking a ticket to next season’s Champions League, while the hosts must avoid defeat to steer clear of the relegation zone.

Original author: Shina Oludare

Toni Payne grabs assist in Sevilla victory against Valencia

The Nigeria forward was in fantastic form but her effort ensured the visitors claimed an away victory against Jose Bargues' side

Toni Payne contributed one assist as Sevilla secured a 2-1 comeback victory against Valencia in Saturday's Spanish Primera Iberdrola game at Estadio Antonio Puchades.

The American-born Nigerian had returned from making her international bow in the Nigeria campaign at the 2021 Turkish Women's Cup in Antalya, where she scored once in three appearances. 

The 25-year-old striker was handed her 19th start of the season against Valencia and her contribution helped Cristian Toro's team subdue their hosts to make a return to winning ways.

On the heels of a 1-1 draw with Real Madrid, Toro's ladies were aiming to bounce back against Valencia but made a false start as Candela Andujar gave the hosts the lead after just 16 minutes.

Eight minutes from the half time break, the visitors found their way back into the mix when Payne set up Claudia Pina to grab the equaliser.

Sevilla completed their comeback in the contest when Lucia Ramos played Pina through for the lead and her brace just four minutes after the restart as they held on to claim maximum points.

The result keeps Sevilla in the eighth position with 31 points from 21 games and they aim to keep their form against Logrono on March 14.
 
Payne, who featured for the entirety of the match, has now scored twice and provided three assists in 21 outings for Sevilla this season.

Original author: Samuel Ahmadu

'We've been to hell and back' - Gerrard reveals Rangers pride as they stand on brink of title

The Ibrox club are just one point away from snatching the trophy away from their great rivals Celtic

Steven Gerrard says Rangers have “been to hell and back” over the last decade as they stand on the brink of a first Scottish Premiership title since 2011.

Gerrard’s side eased past St Mirren 3-0 on Saturday to move to within one point of becoming champions.

They will also win the league if Celtic fail to beat Dundee United on Sunday, ending their Old Firm rivals’ hopes of a 10th successive title.

The bigger picture

The last decade has been one of the most turbulent periods in Rangers’ history.

In June 2012, a little over a year after their 54th Scottish title success, the club was placed into liquidation after a failing to reach an agreement with its creditors over substantial debts.

The club’s assets were transferred to a new company, but Rangers were forced to begin the following season in the Scottish Third Division.

The Ibrox side returned to the top flight within four years but could not stop Celtic’s dominance of Scottish football.

The 2019-20 season saw Celtic match the record of Walter Smith’s Rangers side of the 1980s and 1990s by winning nine successive titles, and hopes were high among Hoops fans that the famous '10 in a row' could be achieved this campaign.

Gerrard's Rangers had other ideas though, which will make this long-awaited title success even sweeter for their supporters.

What did Gerrard say?

Speaking after Saturday’s game at Ibrox, Gerrard, who became Rangers boss in the summer of 2018, told the club's website: "I don't think while I'm representing this club there will ever be a bigger three points.

"It's been an emotional day, obviously arriving here and seeing the scenes. It was an incredible feeling.

"I'm lost for words in terms of how I want to describe my team. I've been here for three years and they took me on one hell of a journey. It hasn't always been up and up, but I have nothing but plaudits to give my players.

"This club has been to hell and back over the past 10 years. I've only been part of it for three, but I can certainly relate and I've got that feeling and that affection with the fans and I know what they have been through."

Gerrard appeals for calm

With Rangers on the brink of the title hundreds of supporters arrived outside Ibrox to begin the celebrations - in breach of the Scottish Government’s Covid-19 restrictions.

With the supporters’ celebrations within earshot, the Rangers players ran to one of the exit gates at Ibrox at the full-time whistle to celebrate in view of the fans.

Gerrard said he understood the emotions but urged calm and for people to stick to the rules, while stressing his desire for this to be the start of a new era of dominance at Ibrox.

"I can totally understand the scenes,” he added. “But I think it's important they stay safe as well and we all try and be humble and focus on what is left, because there are a lot of big games left and we want more.

"I always said the first one [title] would be the hardest and we're obviously millimetres away from achieving that. But I don't know, I got a feeling upstairs today I want more, I'm hungry for more and I hope my players share that. If they do it's exciting times to be a Rangers fan.

"For me the priority is to really let this sink in, get it officially done and realise the monumental achievement that it is. But that's got to make you hungry for more.

"I'm already thinking about what's next and I want more. That's my drive every single day when I come to work. Since I was a young lad I just want success and I want to win, I want to win football matches and I want to have moments like that in the dressing room. That's what it is all about.”

Further reading

Original author: Goal

Orlando Pirates player ratings after convincing Chippa United win

The Buccaneers thrashed the Chilli Boys 3-0 in a PSL match on Saturday. Goal rates the performances of the Bucs players
Original author: Austin Ditlhobolo

LIVE: Brest vs PSG

50' There's a half-chance for Mbappe now and PSG may wish they'd done more to help him put it away. The France international finds himself juggling a delivery under pressure inside the Brest box and defenders crowd him before he can either shoot or find an avenue to set up another effort.

48' The pressure will be on for the hosts here. Score early in this second half and they are in with a shout of forcing something from this game. The longer this goes on with no response on the scoreboard, the more their odds will lengthen.

46' We are back underway at Stade Francis-Le Ble. Is it plain sailing for PSG from here or can Brest spring a famous cup comeback?

If you are Mauricio Pochettino, do you remove Mbappe from the pitch at the break? The Argentine may have one eye on next week's Champions League second leg with Barcelona - and despite a hefty lead, he will be no fool in knowing the Blaugrana could mount an astonishing comeback. His most prized asset may need to be preserved.

A delightful top-drawer finish from Kylian Mbappe and a coolly taken half-chance for Pablo Sarabia means that PSG are firmly in front in the Coupe de France - but hosts Brest have more than played their pair. The visitors could well be home and dry, but they've been forced to fight for their lead. At half-time, it is Brest 0-2 Paris Saint-Germain.

45' HALF-TIME: BREST 0-2 PARIS SAINT-GERMAIN

42' This has suddenly turned into a far more robust test of the PSG defence than anticipated. Bakker sees off a long ball down the right flank again and the visitors have a goal-kick to help ease the pressure.

40' Now it is Danilo's turn to clear PSG's lines before Rico snaffles a return delivery. Brest are growing in confidence here, momentum swinging towards them as the game heads towards half-time.

38' Is that a Brest penalty? Diallo and Bakker sandwich Philippoteaux in the box and he goes down, perhaps a touch softly. The referee isn't having it and PSG are able to spirit the ball back to midway.

35' Mbappe hits the post! The striker can't believe it and nor can his team-mates. He's released through a gap in the Brest defence, cuts a lovely line and tries to pull his shot in at the far edge past Cibois, only to hit the woodwork. What an opportunity.

33' Philippoteaux is making himself known up front for Brest right now, but PSG are doing an excellent job at cutting off supply, having perhaps allowed the hosts more room to launch counter-attacks early on. It's getting a little bit nip-and-tuck around the ankles.

31' The visitors lash their latest free-kick into the box and Cibois helps usher it away. PSG continue to hound the keeper until he rids himself of the ball with a deep punt downfield though.

29' There's a little bit of frayed tempers with PSG and it is easy to see why; they've picked up that booking there despite a few hefty challenges against them going unpunished.

27' Oh, Sebastien Cibois may be the luckiest man on the pitch right now. He roars out of his box and puts a slide tackle straight into Mbappe's ankle, about six yards outside his area. He's not booked - doesn't even concede a free-kick! - because the PSG man had been offside. That's a stroke of fortune.

26' The visitors have had 62 per cent of possession so far, a fair reflection of their general composure and control in this game. They also seem very comfortable at ensuring Brest are harried when playing it out from the back.

24' You do wonder how nervous PSG might get the longer this game goes on without them adding a second. If they can double their lead before the break, they may be as good as home and dry. But at a one-goal lead, this is still risky territory in knockout football.

21' PSG will have a goal-kick now after a looping cross-turned-shot from Brest almost wrongfooted Rico at the back, sailing wide of the right post by a good few feet in the end.

19' Now it is PSG's turn to drive a few low deliveries into the Brest area of the pitch. The hosts cope admirable and Mbappe's attempt to twist a return cross in is picked off easily enough.

17' Again, Brest slip the delivery down into PSG's final third with a touch of invention and again, the visitors read it well. This is an intriguing tussle, but that one-goal lead still looks pretty secure as things stand.

15' It's a particularly still night in Brest, long balls catching the air with little wind. That could help the visitors if they decide they want to bypass the hosts' midfield entirely, which is not implausible.

13' Credit to the hosts, they've rallied admirable and ping a pair of dangerous balls into the PSG penalty area. Again, the end execution is missing, but they're not looking like a side woefully out of their depth against last year's Champions League finalists.

11' Chalk another one up for the France international; he may well be the most fearsome player at Euro 2020 later this year. That's a psychological blow for Brest so early here to recover from.

7' Sarabia with the chance! The striker will be kicking himself there, fed a lovely ball into the box that he can't turn and put away before Pierre-Gabriel robs him of possession. That was set up wonderfully.

4' That is some silky footwork from Brest! PSG's defence are furious with themselves and rightly so, cut open with some neat triangular play and a pair of delicious backheels that just don't quite come off at the end.

3' Early nerves for the hosts as PSG win a quickfire corner and Cibois fails to take it cleanly. He's fortunate the bounce is kind; the ball comes straight back into his gloves before it can be snaffled.

1' We are underway in this Coupe de France clash between Brest and Paris Saint-Germain!

The teams are out at Stade Francis-Le Ble and we are moments away from kick-off.

A Zlatan Ibrahimovic hat-trick ensured a 5-2 win for PSG the last time these two sides met in this competition, in January 2014. One player survives; Marquinhos, on the bench for the visitors as he was that day too.

Subs: Alexandre Letellier, Presnel Kimpembe, Marquinhos, Timothee Pembele, Layvin Kurzawa, Rafinha, Idrissa Gueye, Angel Di Maria, Mauro Icardi.

PARIS SAINT-GERMAIN (4-3-3): Sergio Rico; Thilo Kehrer, Danilo Pereira, Abdou Diallo, Mitchel Bakker; Ander Herrera, Marco Verratti, Leandro Paredes; Pablo Sarabia, Kylian Mbappe, Julian Draxler.

Subs: Brendan Chardonnet, Mouez Hassen, Julien Faussurier, Steve Mounie, Romain Perraud, Jean Lucas, Hugo Magnetti, Hianga'a M'Bock, Gaetan Charbonnier.

BREST (4-2-3-1): Sebastien Cibois; Ronael Pierre-Gabriel, Jean-Kevin Duverne, Lilian Brassier, Ludovic Baal; Haris Belkebla, Bandiougou Fadiga; Jeremy Le Douaron, Romain Faivre, Romain Philippoteaux; Irvin Cardona.

Those following the news may already know that Mauricio Pochettino has confirmed Neymar's absence for PSG today, but the Argentine isn't treating this like a kick-around tie too much either. A few faces are rested, but Kylian Mbappe's presence up front showcases the visitors' intent clearly.

In their way sits a side they've already downed once in 2021 - but as most people will tell you, all bets can be off in knockout football. That being said, Brest have not beat their visitors since 1985; it's been a long while since they trumped the capital club.

If there's one trophy to rival the top-flight for PSG's domestic monopoly, then it is this knockout competition. The visitors have won it every year since 2015, except for 2019 when beaten on penalties by Rennes in the final - and they're hot favourites to progress today once again.

Hello and welcome to live coverage of the 2020-21 Coupe de France, as reigning champions Paris Saint-Germain look to avoid a potential banana-skin result against fellow Ligue 1 side Brest at Stade Francis-Le Ble.

Aubameyang: Arsenal should have won Burnley game with chances created

The Gabon international's effort was not enough as the Gunners settled for a share of the spoils at Turf Moor

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang admits Arsenal deserve maximum points after their 1-1 draw with Burnley in Saturday’s Premier League encounter.

The 31-year-old fired Mikel Arteta's men ahead with his sixth-minute opener, but it was cancelled out by Chris Wood who capitalised on Granit Xhaka's blunder six minutes before half-time.

The Gunners struggled to put the ball into the back of the net after the restart at Turf Moor, and they also found themselves on the opposite end of the VAR after a penalty call was overturned.

Ivory Coast's Nicolas Pepe came off the bench in the 69th minute and he saw his shot deflected by Erik Pieters' hand which instigated calls for a penalty.

Referee Andre Marriner, in his decision, awarded a penalty and showed Pieters a red card, however, both decisions were reversed later after a video review.

After the game, Aubameyang – who was named the Man of the Match – urged the club faithful and his teammates to turn their attention to their Europa League round of 16 clash with Olympiacos on Thursday and the North London derby against Tottenham Hotspur next Sunday.

“Let’s be honest, VAR on the side, in this game when you produced chances as we did today we should’ve won this game but it is what it is! Let’s move forward, big week coming,” Aubameyang tweeted.

Aubameyang’s effort on Saturday took his tally to eight goals against Burnley – the best he has managed against a Premier League club and the second-highest he has managed against a club in the top five European leagues after Hamburger SV (nine goals).

The Gabonese captain is Arsenal's leading joint-top scorer in the Premier League alongside Alexandre Lacazette with nine goals in 23 matches.

The Gunners remain 10th in the league table with 38 points from 27 matches - eight points from the Europa League qualifying spot.

Original author: Taiye Taiwo

Ancelotti picks out dream Everton signing but would need a time machine to make it possible

The Toffees boss has named AC Milan legend Paolo Maldini, who he previously worked with at San Siro, as the player he would most like at Goodison Park

Carlo Ancelotti has picked out his dream signing as Everton manager, but would require a time machine in order to add AC Milan icon Paolo Maldini to his back four.

The Toffees boss played alongside and managed a legendary left-back during his time at San Siro.

He still holds Maldini in the highest regard and would welcome the opportunity to add a player of that ilk to his squad at Goodison Park.

What has been said?

Ancelotti has told Sky Sports when asked to name his ideal transfer: “No doubt! Paolo Maldini because he is my friend, he was my team-mate, he was my captain and he is a funny guy!

“He is a top guy, top player, so no doubt it would be Paolo Maldini. It would be nice.”

Maldini’s record at AC Milan

An all-time great made his debut for the Rossoneri in January 1985.

He did not head into retirement until 24 years later, with his boots hung up at the end of the 2008-09 campaign.

Maldini walked away as a one-club man and with 902 appearances taken in for Milan.

Across those outings he helped the Italian giants to seven Serie A titles and four European Cup/Champions League crowns.

He inherited the captain’s armband following the retirement of Franco Baresi in 1997 and also skippered his country while earning 126 caps for the Azzurri.

Who is Everton’s left-back?

Lucas Digne is Ancelotti’s favoured option at present on the left of his defensive unit.

The 27-year-old Frenchman has taken in 23 appearances this season, contributing six assists to the collective cause.

The bigger picture

While he may not have a Maldini at his disposal, Ancelotti has helped to push Everton into contention for European qualification.

The Toffees, ahead of a meeting with Chelsea on Monday, sit fifth in the Premier League table at present and will clamber into the Champions League places if they bring Thomas Tuchel’s unbeaten start as Blues boss to a close – with a game in hand also being held on all of those above them.

Further reading

Original author: Chris Burton

Watford forward Success ‘grateful’ after returning from long injury layoff against Nottingham Forest

The Nigeria international made his much-awaited return to action against Chris Hughton’s men at Vicarage Road

Isaac Success has expressed his delight after returning from a long injury layoff in Watford’s 1-0 victory over Nottingham Forest in Saturday’s Championship game.

The centre-forward has been on the sidelines since June after suffering a hamstring injury during a training session.

The 24-year-old last featured in a competitive game for Watford in their FA Cup tie against Newcastle United in January 2019.

Success made a cameo appearance on his return against Chris Hughton’s men as the Hornets secured all three points at Vicarage Road.

The centre-forward was brought on for Joao Pedro in the 88th minute and had seven touches on the ball.

The Nigeria international has now taken to social media to express his feelings on his return from the injury setback.

The victory moved Watford to second spot on the Championship table after gathering 66 points from 35 games.

Success will hope to enjoy more minutes under his belt when Xisco Munoz’s men take on Cardiff City in their next league game on March 13.

The forward has struggled to establish himself at Vicarage Road since teaming up with the side from Spanish club Granada in the summer of 2016.

Success has only made 55 league appearances for the Hornets during his five-year stay at the club so far due to injury, form, indiscipline and other factors.

The forward had previously expressed his disappointment in his inconsistent performances for the Hornets and promised to make a more meaningful contribution on his return from injury.

“It's been tough. It was painful, but it's football and it happens. I'm just trying to work my way back to the squad as I've missed playing with the team,” Success said.

“We need to get back to the Premier League as quickly as possible, so I'm looking forward to getting back and achieving our goals.

“I'm very excited. The last five months have been boring. I've done a lot of work and I know it's going to be an emotional first game back after six months out, but I'm ready for the challenge.

“Sometimes I feel disappointed with myself as I've got the qualities and everything a forward player will need.

“I need to do the right things and wait for my chance. I think I've got lots to offer the team. It's been disappointing not getting the chance [over the years] and being injured a couple of times when it was time for me to explode.

“I just need to keep working as there is so much more to come. It's time for me to deliver for the team and the fans as they have been waiting too long. The wait is now over.”

Original author: Gbenga Adewoye

FutPost.com