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Potential replacements for David Luiz at Arsenal

The FC Dallas star is behind only Christian Pulisic as the youngster will earn his first cap in a massive match

Ricardo Pepi has become the second-youngest player to start a World Cup qualifier for the U.S. men's national team as the FC Dallas star joins the lineup for Wednesday's vital clash with Honduras.

Pepi, who spoke to Goal earlier this summer about his recent rise and future ambitions, has emerged as one of MLS' most deadly strikers and will now be charged with helping the U.S. build on just a two-point haul from two games.

With the start, Pepi makes his first USMNT appearance at just 18 years, 242 days, making him the second-youngest American to play in World Cup qualifying behind only Christian Pulisic (17 years, 193 days in a March 2016 match against Guatemala).

The USMNT lineup

Facing what is essentially a must-win clash so early in the cycle, USMNT boss Gregg Berhalter has sent out an unpredictable lineup with several major changes.

Pepi, George Bello, James Sands and Mark McKenzie will all play in a World Cup qualifier for the first time, with Sands likely playing in the central midfield after playing as a centerback through the Gold Cup.

McKenzie and Bello will be joined in defense by either John Brooks, MIles Robinson and either Kellyn Acosta or Tyler Adams at right-wingback while Pepi will play up top with Josh Sargent and Christian Pulisic.

The USMNT are without several key players, having lost Gio Reyna and Sergino Dest to injury and Zack Steffen to a positive coronavirus test as well as Weston McKennie, who was sent back to Italy after violating Covid protocol.

Further reading

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Transfer news and rumours LIVE: PSG rejected €80m Barca bid for Neymar

Goal takes a look at the biggest transfer news and rumours from the Premier League, La Liga, Serie A and around the world
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Iwobi: Benitez is always trying to help me at Everton

The Super Eagles midfielder has enjoyed a decent start to the 2021-22 season, contributing a goal and an assist in four games for the Toffees so far

Alex Iwobi has credited Everton manager Rafael Benitez for his improved form at the start of the season.

The former Arsenal youngster revealed how the training session of the Spanish coach has impacted his game as well as the team’s overall performance.

Benitez replaced Carlo Ancelotti at the Goodison Park in June and as a result, the Nigeria international has played in every of Everton’s matches this season, and he has a goal with an assist to his name already.

“The manager is always talking to me and trying to help me,” Iwobi told Everton TV. "It's helped me a lot so far this season.

“It’s not just me, of course, but the whole team [he speaks to]. My confidence is playing a big part, too. I’m pushing a bit more up the field and getting involved in attacks.

“I just need to add more goals and assists, like the manager wants. With the manager, he doesn’t give us any rest, he’s onto us 24/7. This is what we need.

“You can see everyone’s playing with a lot of confidence. That big motivation is there [to continue achieving positive results].

“We’ve started off very well, but we have to keep going until the end. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.”

Iwobi has started two games in the starting XI and he came on as a substitute in the other two outings.

The 25-year-old admitted the competition for places in Benitez’s team but he disclosed that he is working on his contributions in the final third.

“It’s healthy competition and we [the forwards] always say to each other, ‘We have to try to improve our stats and get involved with goals’,” he continued.

“For me, it’s about working on my play in the final third, whether it’s a cross or a finish. All the attackers are the same…we’re always working and doing extras with that.

“Whether it’s on the pitch or in training, we’re demanding a lot from each other.

“It’s not just Seamus [Coleman], the captain, everyone is demanding from everyone. In our games this season, I think you can see the team spirit from minute one until the end.”

After missing Nigeria's 2022 Fifa World Cup qualifying match against Cape Verde on Tuesday, Iwobi - who provided two assists in the 2-0 win over Liberia on Friday - is back in Merseyside and he is in contention to play when the sixth-placed Toffees host Burnley for Monday's Premier League fixture.

(Originally posted by Taiye Taiwo)
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Jurgen Klinsmann: Bayern are the team to beat in Champions League

The match in August was forced to be abandoned after home fans rushed on to the pitch and clashed with OM players and staff

Ligue 1 have docked Nice two points, one of which was suspended, due to the violent scenes that marred their clash with Marseille in August, while OM physio Pablo Fernandez will be suspended for the entire 2021-22 season for his part in the melee. 

The game between the two clubs was suspended when Nice fans invaded the pitch and physically clashed with players and staff from visiting Marseille

The hosts have been hit hardest by the LFP's final disciplinary ruling but several Marseille representatives also face sanctions, with the match set to be replayed behind closed doors.

What was said?

"Meeting this Wednesday, the Disciplinary Commission of the LFP ruled on the incidents which punctuated the match of the 3rd day of Ligue 1 Uber Eats between OGC Nice and Olympique de Marseille," the association explained in a statement published on its official website.

"After reading the investigation report in the presence of the two clubs, the Commission decided to replay the match on a relocated field. In addition, two penalty points were imposed on OGC Nice, including one suspended point."

Which players were punished?

The pitch invasion at the Allianz Riviera and subsequent fracas was sparked when Marseille star Dimitri Payet threw a bottle back into the crowd, an action for which the ex-West Ham man has been sanctioned with a suspended one-match ban, along with team-mate Alvaro Gonzalez, who had also stood accused of provoking the home fans.

"Regarding the players, defender Alvaro Gonzalez received two games of suspension. As for his teammate Dimitri Payet, he was sanctioned with a suspended match," the LFP statement affirmed. 

Fernandez, meanwhile, a part of Jorge Sampaoli's backroom staff who had already been suspended indefinitely by the LFP after being filmed punching a Nice fan, is banned from all Ligue 1 activities for the rest of the season. 

Further reading 

(Originally posted by Goal)
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Awaziem: Alanyaspor complete late loan move for Nigeria defender

After his international assignment with Nigeria, the 24-year-old immediately travelled to Alanya on a private jet to sort out his future

Turkish Super Lig club Alanyaspor have signed Chidozie Awaziem on loan from Portuguese club Boavista until the end of the 2021-22 campaign.

Awaziem left the Super Eagles’ camp in Cape Verde immediately after their 2-1 victory in the second game of their 2022 Fifa World Cup qualifying campaign to complete the deal before the Turkish summer transfer window closed on Wednesday night.

The former Leganes defender played the entire duration on Tuesday as Victor Osimhen’s strike and an own goal from Kenny Rocha Santos secured maximum points for the visitors in Mindelo.

Prior to his invitation to Gernot Rohr's team earlier this month, the former Porto youth star played three Primeira Liga matches for Boavista.

Awaziem's arrival is expected to boost Alanyaspor's backline after they lost two out of their three Super Lig matches so far this season.

The Nigeria international joins Angola's Wilson Eduardo, and Senegal duo Khouma Babacar and Famara Diedhiou in Bulent Korkmaz's team.

They are currently 13th in the table with three points from three matches and they host Giresunspor for their league fixture on Sunday.

"Boavista FC informs that it has reached an agreement with Alanyaspor from Turkey for the temporary transfer of player, Chidozie Awaziem, valid until the end of the 2021-22 season," read a statement on the club's website.

"Boavista FC wishes Chidozie Awaziem all the best personal and professional happiness in this new stage of his career. Good luck, Chidozie."

Awaziem joined Boavista on an initial loan for the 2020-21 season, which was later made a permanent four-year deal at the end of the season until June 2025.

The Enugu-born centre-back started his football career at El-Kanemi Warriors before he joined Porto in 2014 where he shone for their youth side. His impressive performances earned him a promotion to the Dragons' first-team as a 19-year-old in January 2016.

During his stay at the Estadio do Dragao, the Super Eagles defender was sent out on loan four times to Nantes, Rizespor, Leganes and Boavista.

On the international scene, Awaziem made his Nigeria debut in a 3-0 friendly win over Togo in June 2017. He was also part of Rohr's squad to the 2018 Fifa World Cup in Russia and the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt where they won bronze.

(Originally posted by Taiye Taiwo)
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Asisat Oshoala signs new 2-year Barcelona contract

Both Harry Kane and manager Gareth Southgate commented on an unsavoury incident towards the end of the first half

England captain Harry Kane confirmed that the team has reported a clash between Harry Maguire and Poland's Kamil Glik to the Football Association (FA) following Wednesday's World Cup qualifying draw. 

The Three Lions dropped their first points of the campaign in Group I as they were held 1-1 in Warsaw. 

Damian Szymanski struck in stoppage time to cancel out Kane's second-half goal, but it was the earlier altercation that provided one of the game's big talking points. 

What was said? 

"There was an incident just before half-time which has been reported to the FA guys," Kane explained to BBC Radio Five Live after the final whistle.

"They're taking care of it and investigating it and we'll go from there.

"Allegedly it was something that was done, not said. We haven't [had the] chance to look at the footage and talk to the lad."

England boss Gareth Southgate was also guarded in his reaction to the incident, which earned both Maguire and Glik a yellow card after they went toe-to-toe at the end of the first half. 

"We're getting to grips with what that was. There's been a report put in and we need to find out a little bit more about what's happened," he told the BBC. 

"At the moment we're still gathering all the evidence so there's no point in me speculating any further." 

Prior to the incident, England's players had once more faced boos from the home crowd while taking the knee before kick-off, as had occurred in last week's visit to Budapest to face Hungary.

The bigger picture 

Despite failing to win for the first time in their qualifying campaign, England remain well placed to reach Qatar 2022. 

The Three Lions sit four points clear of second-placed Albania in Group I, and could qualify with two games to spare in October should they win both games against Andorra and Hungary and have other results go their way.

Further reading 

(Originally posted by Goal)
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Rampant Italy set all-time scoring record with scintillating start vs Lithuania

With four goals in the opening 30 minutes the Euro 2020 winners made a new piece of history in Wednesday's clash

Reigning European champions Italy gave another warning of their prowess with a record-breaking start to Wednesday's World Cup qualifier against Lithuania. 

The Azzurri went into the match at the top of Group C and with an historic unbeaten run to defend.

They experienced little resistance from their visitors at the Mapei Stadium, winning 5-0 and adding a new milestone in the nation's enviable football history as Lithuania were put to the sword. 

Quick off the mark

It took Italy just 11 minutes to open the scoring on Wednesday, with Moise Kean netting to put his team in the ascendancy. 

And the goals just kept coming, as Kean added a second and Giacomo Raspadoni marked his first-ever goal for the Azzurri, while Edgaras Utkus also put past his own goalkeeper. 

After just 30 minutes Mancini's men were up by four goals, a new national team best, as never before had Italy managed to score as many in the first half-hour of a single game.

The bigger picture 

Mancini took over in the Italy hot seat following the failure to qualify for the 2018 World Cup in Russia and immediately set about turning around the side's fortunes. 

The Azzurri have not lost a game at senior level since September 2018, at the hands of Portugal in the UEFA Nations League. On Sunday they set the record for the most international matches undefeated in the game's history with a 0-0 draw against Switzerland, stretching their run to 36 games. 

During that run Italy were crowned Euro 2020 champions thanks to their penalty shoot-out victory over England in July's final at Wembley, their first title since the 2006 World Cup.

Italy's unbeaten run now stands at 37, with the Azzurri defeating Lithuania to cement their spot at the top of their qualifying group after defender Giovanni Di Lorenzo grabbed the fifth of the evening for the hosts. 

Further reading 

Original author: Daniel Edwards
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When does the 2021 summer transfer window open & which players could be on the move?

The Hearts of Oak right-back reflects on Monday's appearance against Bafana Bafana in the 2022 World Cup qualifiers

Ghana fullback Mohammed Fatawu has admitted he was overawed by the occasion of playing against South Africa at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg on Monday.

On the books of Ghana Premier League champions Hearts of Oak, the right-back saw 90 minutes of action as the Black Stars succumbed to 1-0 away defeat in Group G of the 2022 World Cup qualifiers.

The match was his first appearance for CK Akonnor’s side, chosen ahead of fellow home-based competitor Philemon Baffour of Dreams, and having benefited from the absence of Ghana first-choice right-back Andy Yiadom, who was restricted from the game by his English club.

“Honestly, I got a bit scared when I saw the stadium because the pitch is very huge and it wouldn’t have been easy with supporters in the stands because the moment you enter the stadium, you realise that indeed you are in a stadium,” Fatawu, captain of his club side who claimed a league and cup double last season, told Angel FM.

“But at long last, we played in an empty stadium so that eased some pressure off. If the supporters had been there the way the pressure was high it (the pressure) would have been more. But without the supporters, it felt like no man’s land.”

Ghana played Monday’s game without six first-team players who started for the side in a 1-0 win over Ethiopia on Friday.

The unavailability of those players has not spared coach Akonnor from receiving a lot of stick for his selection and the outcome of the game.

The trainer, meanwhile, lamented the unavailability of about six first-choice options, owing to coronavirus-induced restrictions.

“The whole issue has been a problem, not just me but other national team coaches across the world. Today, you have a plan, tomorrow you wake up and a player has Covid-19 and he cannot join the team. Others are not allowed to join the team for the same reason,” Akonnor said.

“I don’t know if Caf and Fifa are handling the situation well because one may ask, can’t we play somewhere else if we cannot bring our players here? There are so many questions to answer and it’s not making us comfortable. It’s so difficult.

“We come under severe pressure from our nation, we have to win at all cost. Yet this Covid-19 issue has become a major setback and I don’t know if Caf and Fifa are handling the situation very well.”

Fatawu was a late addition to Ghana’s squad for the double-header following the injury withdrawal of Slovakia-based Benson Anang.

Original author: Prince Narkortu Teye
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LIVE: Iceland vs Germany

54' INCREDIBLE MISS! Remarkably, half-time substitute Havertz passes up a golden opportunity to notch Germany's third goal of the match, slotting the ball wide of the right post when totally unmarked just 10 yards out.

52' Helgason's right-footed shot from outside the box flies high and wide to the right, following a through-ball from Johannesson. Iceland are growing in authority and posing much more of a final-third threat.

49' OFF THE POST! Johann Gudmundsson gets off a thunderous left-footed strike from around 25 yards, but it cannons back into play after flying past a helpless Neuer. Though Albert Gudmundsson taps in the rebound, he is clearly offside. Iceland were so close to getting a goal back!

48' A tremendous chance to seal the points is spurned by Werner, who virtually passes the ball into Halldorsson's hands from inside the Iceland area, on the left.

46' The players are back out on the turf at Laugardalsvollur, with second half now getting under way.

Following a tiring week's action, Flick may opt to take advantage of the multiple substitutions available to him early in the second period - offering further invaluable experience to some of his teenage talents, such as Wirtz and Musiala. The hosts, of course, have far fewer options, but may also decide to shake things up if they continue to trail.

In pursuit of a third consecutive qualifying win in the space of a week, Germany could not have wished for a better start, with a delightful passing sequence ending in Gnabry's early opening goal. That gave the Nationalelf an upper hand which they would never relinquish; extending their advantage to two before the break, even though they could have conceded themselves on a couple of occasions. Undoubtedly, Iceland will need to call upon their indomitable team spirit in the second half, but will that be enough to help overhaul their deficit?  

45' + 1' HALF-TIME: ICELAND 0-2 GERMANY

45' Gnabry cleverly tees up Goretzka for a shot, some 25 yards from goal, but his powerful effort is charged down bravely by Fjoluson.

43' Johann Gudmundsson suddenly finds himself free on the right side of the German box; getting off a sharp shot with the outside of his boot. Neuer, however, has no trouble in diving low to stop the ball sneaking into the bottom corner.

40' This is the fourth time these two nations have met, with Germany having won two and drawn the other of their previous encounters. Even at this stage, they look well set to retain that unbeaten record against their hosts today.

38' A rare period of Iceland pressure is summarily snuffed out by Kimmich, as Germany again exert control of proceedings. They appear happy to play keep-ball until half-time.

36' The set-piece opportunity is wasted by Sane, who fires his effort well over Halldorsson's bar and into the Icelandic night sky.

35' Johannesson's late challenge brings Gundogan crashing to the turf; teeing up an excellently placed free-kick opportunity just on the edge of the area.

33' Now Bjarnason's bookable challenge is scrutinised by the VAR, with a potential red card the former Aston Villa man's alternative fate. However, the referee's original on-field decision stands.

30' From 20 yards out on the right, Kimmich slips a cute angled ball through for Werner to chase, but the Chelsea striker just cannot connect and the ball drifts out of play for a goal kick.

28' Sane and Werner combine on the edge of the Iceland area, but spurn the chance to add a third goal to the visitors' tally by overcomplicating matters and ultimately concede possession.

26' Gundogan wins a free-kick, from which he tries a lofted through ball, but Werner is caught marginally offside.

22' Germany win a free kick for a foul by Albert Gudmundsson on Goretzka, 25 yards from goal on the right of the area.

19' After today's early strike, Gnabry has scored 19 goals in 29 games for Germany - equalling Reus as the second-highest scorer in the current squad.

16' CLOSE CALL! Johannesson is denied by Neuer, who springs low to his right in order to stop a low driven shot from just outside the box. A first test of the game for the Germany goalkeeper.

14' Gundogan again breaks up a potential Iceland counter-attack with a foul inside the centre circle, and Iceland have a rare spell of possession away from their own defensive third.

12' Germany are well on top now, with their full-backs well forward and everyone except Neuer occupying the attacking half.

10' From inside the area, Gundogan scuffs a half-chance straight into the grateful gloves of Halldorsson, who is covering his near post sufficiently to suffocate any danger.

7' Gundogan brings down Johannesson in the German half, but Iceland cannot capitalise on the subsequent set-piece opportunity.

3' Kimmich and Sane combine well to carve open the Iceland defence and cut back for Gnabry, who slots into an unguarded net, but the decision on offside goes to the VAR.

2' Johann Gudmundsson tries a speculative through ball, but Albert Gudmundsson is caught just offside as he tries to latch on to it.

1' We are off and under way in Reykjavik!

Both sides have now observed the national anthems and are lined up and ready to play.

Germany's Reus and Baku both miss out today, while teenage talent Musiala is not selected to join his Bayern Munich teammates Sane and Gnabry in the forward line, but is named on the bench. Sane, Werner, Kimmich and Kehrer are the four ever-presents in Hansi Flick's lineup - each making their third start in a week. Iceland, meanwhile, have opted to keep Andri Gudjohnsen in reserve despite his equalising goal at the weekend, so Albert Gudmundsson again leads the home side's attack.

SUBS: Kevin Trapp, Florian Neuhaus, Jamal Musiala, Florian Wirtz, Mahmoud Dahoud, Lukas Klostermann, David Raum, Kai Havertz, Nico Schlotterbeck, Bernd Leno, Karim Adeyemi, Robin Gosens.

GERMANY (4-2-3-1): Manuel Neuer; Jonas Hofmann, Niclas Sule, Antonio Rudiger, Thilo Kehrer; Joshua Kimmich, Leon Goretzka; Serge Gnabry, Ilkay Gundogan, Leroy Sane; Timo Werner.

SUBS: Runar Alex Runarsson, Andri Fannar Baldursson, Alfons Sampsted, Jon Dagur Thorsteinsson, Andri Lucas Gudjohnsen, Gisli Eyjolfsson, Patrik Gunnarsson, Kari Arnason, Arnor Sigurdsson, Vidar Kjartansson, Gudmundur Thorarinsson, Hjortur Hermannsson.

ICELAND: (4-5-1): Hannes Halldorsson; Birkir Mar Saevarsson, Brynjar Ingi Bjarnason, Ari Freyr Skulason, Jon Fjoluson; Johan Gudmundsson, Birkir Bjarnason, Isak Bergmann Johannesson, Victor Palsson, Thorir Johann Helgason; Albert Gudmundsson.

Iceland, meanwhile, earned their fourth point of the campaign last time out; overcoming a two-goal deficit to draw 2-2 with North Macedonia. Brynjar Ingi Bjarnason pulled a goal back late on before Andri Gudjohnsen drew them level six minutes from time, as Arnar Vidarsson's side aim to get back in the race for a playoff place.

Despite an unprecedented defeat to North Macedonia earlier in the process, Germany remain favourites to progress to next year's finals, and will sit top of Group J after the September triple-header regardless of the result today. 

These two nations last met in the opening game of the Qatar 2022 qualification campaign, with today's visitors coasting to a 3-0 victory in Duisburg last March.

Hello and welcome to live coverage of Iceland v Germany in World Cup Qualifying Group J, from Laugardalsvollur in Reykjavik.

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‘Aubameyang is a killer’ – Villarreal’s Emery wary of Arsenal star’s threat

With the CAF Champions League set to return this week, we are recounting five interesting facts about the 2021/22 edition
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LIVE: Poland vs England

34' Phillips wins possession for England but Sterling can't find the right pass to Kane. England are looking fairly comfortable but haven't quite clicked in attack yet.

33' Sterling carries the ball upfield and goes down but the referee isn't interested. Puchacz looks to find Lewandowski with a cross in and Maguire is in the right place to head clear.

31' Moder goes for goal from way out and gets it all wrong, blazing high and wide. Poland are giving England as good as they've got at the moment.

29' Chance for Poland! Lewandowski drifts into the left-hand channel and looks to flick past Pickford with the outside of his boot. It's not the most powerful effort and Pickford is able to block.

28' Krychowiak turns Phillips to reach Walker's poor pass and ends up winning a foul as Kane closes him down.

26' Grealish latches onto Walker's ball over the top and is stopped in his tracks by Glik near the corner flag. Grealish wants a free-kick but he isn't getting it.

25' England are staying patient, biding their time for the right time to strike. The home fans whistle their disapproval.

23' England are starting to put their stamp on the game after a fairly even start. All Poland can do is sit back and defend for now.

22' The offside flag goes up against Kane as he activates to reach Sterling's flick-on.

21' Chance for England! Sterling beats Puchacz down the right and hangs up a cross for Kane at the far post. Kane gets his header unusually wrong though and Poland hook it away.

20' Krychowiak steals the ball from Kane. Poland have nowhere to go though. The first 20 minutes of this match have been very lively and easy on the eye.

18' Buksa stretches to beat Maguire to Puchacz's cross into the England box but is unable to connect with it. Up the other end, Mount bends an effort over the crossbar from the left of the box.

16' Poland manage to escape their half. Jozwiak tries to free Lewandowski with an pass over England's defence but the visitors are alive to the danger.

15' Grealish wins England's first corner of the game. Shaw fires it in towards Rice. It comes to Mount whose shot is blocked. Poland's counter fails and England come straight back. Poland are penned in for the time being.

14' Pickford gets down low at his near post to catch Moder's effort from near the byline after Lewandowski slipped the midfielder into the box. 

13' Shaw swings in the free-kick from the left. The second ball lands to Maguire who swipes at it but can't get a clean shot at goal. Poland clear.

11' Sterling is dispossessed to the right of Poland's box. Poland can't counter though and England win the ball straight back. Jozwiak is penalised for sliding in on Grealish. It's been a feisty start to the game.

10' Moder sends the ball over the top for Lewandowski who holds it up well. Poland can't get a shot away but their movement is promising early on.

9' Rice gallops down the left and tempts Krychowiak into a sliding tackle. Rice thinks he's won a corner but the decision goes Poland's way.

7' England see the corner out easily enough, blocking Glik's shot from the centre of the box. The visitors are having to pull their sleeves up and get stuck in straight away.

6' Poland are dictating much of the early play, egged on by the home fans. Rice concedes the first corner of the game, beating Krychowiak to a loose ball.

4' Poland's right wing-back Jozwiak flings a high cross into the penalty area. It's met by Puchacz on the far side of the box who slams a shot against Walker. England smuggle the ball away.

2' Contrary to pre-match reports, Poland have started in a 3-4-3 formation. It's likely to spend more time looking like a 5-4-1. Szczesny tries a throughball for Lewandowski who's offside.

1' England take the knee before kick-off, a gesture that doesn't go down entirely well with the home supporters. Poland get this game underway.

The two nations are out on the pitch at a packed PGE Narodawy. Both teams belt out their national anthems with gusto. Let's do this!

England have lost just one of their 20 matches against Poland in all competitions, beating the Poles 2-1 earlier this year at Wembley. However, five of the last seven meetings between the sides on Polish soil have ended in draws. A draw wouldn't be a bad result for either side, but England in particular will believe they can win this.

Sousa makes six changes to the Poland team that saw off San Marino so convincingly last time out. Bednarek, Glik and Krychowiak all come back into the starting line-up. England show their strength in depth by fielding a whole different 11 from the one that started against Andorra. 10 of them started the Euro 2020 final.

SUBS: Jordan Henderson, Bukayo Saka, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Sam Johnstone, Reece James, Jude Bellingham, Kieran Trippier, Patrick Bamford, Conor Coady, Nick Pope, Jesse Lingard.

ENGLAND (4-2-3-1): Jordan Pickford; Kyle Walker, John Stones, Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw; Kalvin Phillips, Declan Rice; Raheem Sterling, Mason Mount, Jack Grealish; Harry Kane (c).

SUBS: Tomasz Kedziora, Bartosz Slisz, Przemyslaw Frankowski, Lukasz Skorupski, Karol Swiderski, Maciej Rybus, Nicola Zalewski, Michal Helik, Jakub Kaminski, Kamil Piatkowski, Bartlomiej Dragowski, Damian Szymanski.

POLAND (4-4-2): Wojciech Szczesny; Pawel Dawidowicz, Kamil Glik, Jan Bednarek, Tymoteusz Puchacz; Kamil Jozwiak, Karol Linetty, Grzegorz Krychowiak, Jakub Moder; Adam Buksa, Robert Lewandowski (c).

Visiting Poland here are England who dispatched minnows Andorra 4-0 at Wembley in their last game. Five points clear at the top of Group I, Gareth Southgate's men are unbeaten in their last 15 matches in all competitions and look on track for automatic qualification. A victory here won't seal their place in Qatar, but it would take them one big step closer. 

After demolishing San Marino 7-1 last time out, Poland have won consecutive matches in all competitions for the first time since November last year. It's good timing for Paulo Sousa's team, who sit second in Group I currently and will want to firmly establish themselves in the group's top two.

Hello! Welcome to our live text commentary of this 2022 FIFA World Cup qualification UEFA Group I match between Poland and England at the PGE Narodowy, Warsaw.

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LIVE: Italy vs Lithuania

31' Talk about a festival of football from the Azzurri. Moise Kean is definitely making a claim for a place in next month's squad with those finishes. It's bizarre to think he was playing for Everton's reserves only the other week.

28' Donnarumma was having a busier night than expected over the initial flush of this match but it is fair to say that he can put his feet up now, with slippers and a cup of tea, Wallace and Gromit-style. He's in for a quiet one.

26' At the pace we're going, it feels prudent to say that Italy's record win is a 9-0 victory over the USA, recorded in 1948. We shouldn't get there - but stranger things have happened.

22' Italy are a shade under 60 per cent possession as the quarter-mark of this match approaches. Lithuania will be particularly disappointed to have leaked twice so far, given they haven't been entirely outmatched and outgunned.

20' Jorginho - sporting the captain's armband today - is proving that vital conduit in midfield once more. Not everything is running through him, but enough is to suggest he is the conductor of this orchestra.

18' There's still work to be done here for Italy, even if the three points looks like they have it wrapped up as results go. Every finish is arguably an audition for these players, with the Nations League Finals looming.

16' Italy have been waiting three halves of football for a goal and then two turn up at once, just like London buses. They look in the mood now; Mancini is on the sidelines, clearly delighted so far.

13' Lithuania look to respond, showing a little bit of nerve as they move back into Italian territory. The noise of the crowd almost shreds their composure however and they lose out with the ball.

10' Verbickas with the shot! That feels oddly atypical, but the visitors force Donnarumma to get low and tap his gloves onto the Lithuania effort.

8' Kazlauskas is trimmed by Jorginho and picks up a free-kick for it. The play just allows the sting to be taken out of the growing tempo orchestrated by the hosts.

6' Biraghi pounds his way into the visitors' box and comes up with nothing, as Setkus makes a brave collection under pressure. The pace of Italy is there for all to see - and surely the fitness levels too.

4' It will be curious to see how Italy gel today. The vast number of players who have occupied a fringe spot over the last few months could disrupt their rhythms. Kean pushes up but the ball is duly intercepted and cleared by Lithuania.

2' Early pressure comes - surprisingly - for the visitors after a free-kick and a subsequently deflected shot sets up a corner. It's slapped into the side netting, Slivka unable to control it, and Italy survive a likely rare attack.

1' Referee Craig Pawson blows his whistle and we are underway in this Qatar 2022 World Cup qualifier between Italy and Lithuania!

The anthems have concluded and we are moments away from kick-off.

The teams are headed out now - with the presence of Englishman Craig Pawson as referee - and we'll have the national anthems before we begin.

Will there be goals in store today? Just the one finish for Italy over the international break highlights their frugal nature since the back end of Euro 2020 - but with Donnarumma in goal, very little will get through either. It will be an intriguing battle to see if the PSG man is tested much though.

Goals for Stefano Sensi and Ciro Immobile did the job last time out when these two sides met in the reverse fixture earlier this year - but the visitors did famously earn a draw against the then-World Champions in only the Azzurri's second game after winning the Germany 2006 World Cup. Could history repeat itself?

Subs: Artemijus Tutyskinas, Vytas Gaspuitis, Linas Megelaitis, Titas Krapikas, Edvinas Gertmonas, Benas Satkus, Karolis Uzela, Dominykas Barauskas, Rolandas Baravykas.

LITHUANIA (4-2-3-1): Ernestas Setkus; Justas Lasickas, Linas Klimavicius, Edgaras Utkus, Vaidas Slavickas; Martynas Dapkus, Vykintas Slivka; Donatas Kazlauskas, Ovidijus Verbickas, Arvydas Novikovas, Edgaras Dubickas.

Subs: Gaetano Castrovilli, Gianluca Scamacca, Manuel Locatelli, Nicolo Barella, Alessandro Florenzi, Salvatore Sirigu, Pierluigi Gollini, Domenico Berardi, Leonardo Bonucci, Giorgio Chiellini, Davide Calabria, Rafael Toloi.

ITALY (4-3-3): Gianluigi Donnarumma; Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Francesco Acerbi, Alessandro Bastoni, Cristiano Biraghi; Matteo Pessina, Jorginho, Bryan Cristante; Federico Bernardeschi, Giacomo Raspadori, Moise Kean.

For Lithuania, there are few names among their ranks likely to draw immediate recognition - but at least striker Edgaras Dubickas won't have a long flight home afterwards. He plays for Piacenza in Serie C, just an hour or so up the road from tonight's host city.

With the quality of their opponent likely to not trouble even a second-string side too much, Italy have fielded just that today. Gianluigi Donnarumma, Giovanni Di Lorenzo and Jorginho are the only three survivors of the Euro 2020 Final penalty shootout win over England to make the cut.

In their way stands a side yet to avoid defeat in 2021. Lithuania's record against non-minnows is not pretty reading - a win over Poland a decade ago is their last major scalp - but the Rinktine, coached by Valdas Ivanauskas, will be far from deterred with their night under the bright lights.

Tonight, history beckons for Roberto Mancini and the Azzurri. Last time out, the newly-minted European champions drew with Switzerland - and matched the all-time unbeaten run record in men's senior football of 36 games. Today, on home turf, they'll be fancied to take it outright.

Hello and welcome to live coverage of the September international break as Euro 2020 holders Italy look to continue their path towards the Qatar 2022 World Cup in a UEFA qualifier against Lithuania at Mapei Stadium, Reggio Emilia.

  340 Hits

LIVE: Kosovo vs Spain

35' Not too far away! Morata picks up the ball on the edge of the box and smashes an effort towards goal, but he gets slightly too much on it and the effort flies just over the crossbar.

31' We’re past the half an hour mark now and it remains goalless between Kosovo and Spain, with the hosts having the better chances so far, but Spain are starting to pile on the pressure.

29' Wasted opportunity! Koke whips a free-kick into the box from a decent position and he should be picking out a team-mate, but instead it is too close to the keeper and Muric comes out and easily gathers in the air.

28' Free-kick to Spain in a good position now after Morata is fouled by Fazliji around 25 yards out and it looks like Koke is going to step up to take it.

26' Good counter! Kosovo break quickly up the pitch following a Spain free-kick, with Muric launching a long throw to Rashica, who races into the Spain half of the pitch and tries to find a team-mate deep inside the box. However, Fornals tracks back superbly and makes the block.

25' Spain are starting to keep the ball a lot better in the middle of the pitch, with the midfield three of Koke, Busquets and Soler controlling the game. Kosovo are starting to sit a bit deeper to soak up the pressure.

23' Spain have not kept a clean sheet outside of their home country since October 2020, when they drew 0-0 with Portugal.

21' Despite being top of Group B, Spain aren't in control as they have already played five games, meanwhile Sweden have only played three and have won all of them, so Spain need Sweden to drop points in order to finish top.

19' The home supporters are definitely enjoying this performance from their side so far, cheering every tackle and good piece of play in midfield. Cracking atmosphere so far.

17' Spain are trying to build some momentum and get on the front foot, but they just can't get the ball into the final third to try and test the Kosovo defence.

15' CLOSE! Rashani cuts in from the right wing, gets it onto his left foot and fires a low strike towards goal, trying to find the bottom left corner of the net. However, it flies just inches wide of the post, with Simon scrambling across to try and meet it. Not too far away!

13' Kosovo look pretty comfortable at the moment, they are seeing a lot of the ball themselves and are forcing Spain to sit back and soak up the pressure. Good start by the hosts.

11' Spain need to make some changes at the back to stop these Kosovo breaks, as the hosts looks like causing problems every time they go on the counter-attack.

9' ANOTHER CHANCE! Kosovo are really opening Spain up at the back on the counter and Rashica races in behind once again! This time the striker gets into the box and tries to round Simon, but the keeper reads it superbly and makes a great save to his left to pounce on the ball and prevent the goal. However, this time the offside flag goes up, so it wouldn't have counted anyway.

8' CHANCE! Another warning for Spain as Rashica races in behind the visitors defence and once again gets away from the two centre-backs. The striker sprints forward and only has Simon to beat, however, his touch is too heavy and it allows Simon to come to the edge of the box and clear the danger.

7' Spain are enjoying the early possession here as you would expect, keeping it well in midfield, but the hosts are pressing them high up the pitch and not allowing them much time or space.

5' Almost! Loshaj plays a lovely ball in behind the Spain defence, with Muriqi sneaking past Laporte and he races into the box, before trying to square it back to a team-mate in the middle. However, Spain get players back and clear the danger.

3' Torres does well down the right wing, taking on a couple of defenders and almost getting to the byline, before trying to drill a cross into the middle. However, it is well cut out and Spain win their first corner of the game, which comes to nothing.

1' We're under way!

The teams are out on the pitch and kick-off is just a few minutes away, stay tuned for all the match action!

Meanwhile Kosovo have made four changes to their starting line-up, from the side that drew with Greece, as Aliti, Halimi, Berisha and Kastrati all drop out of the team and they have been replaced by Fazliji, Rashani, Loshaj and Bytyqi.

Spain have made seven changes to their team, with only Simon, Laporte, Llorente and Torres keeping their places in the starting line-up. Morata and Fornals come into the team up front, alongside Torres in attack.

KOSOVO SUBS: Fidan Aliti, Samir Ujkani, Astrit Seljmani, Muharrem Jashari, Florent Muslija, Mirlind Kryeziu, Armend Thaci, Valon Berisha, Lirim Kastrati, David Domgjoni.

KOSOVO (4-2-2): Arijanet Muric; Florent Hadergjonaj, Amir Rrahmani, Betim Fazliji, Mergim Vojvoda; Elbasan Rashani, Ibrahim Dresevic, Florian Loshaj, Zymer Bytyqi; Vedat Muriqi, Milot Rashica.

SPAIN SUBS: David De Gea, Mikel Merino, Eric Garcia, Rodrigo, Jordi Alba, Abel Ruiz, Pablo Sarabia, Adama Traore, Raul Albiol, Robert Sanchez, Cesar Azpilicueta, Brais Mendez.

SPAIN (4-3-3): Unai Simon; Marcos Llorente, Aymeric Laporte, Inigo Martinez, Sergio Reguilon; Koke, Sergio Busquets, Carlos Soler; Ferran Torres, Alvaro Morata, Pablo Fornals.

Meanwhile Kosovo are third on four points and they were beaten 1-0 by Georgia last week, before picking up a point against Greece on Sunday.

Spain bounced back from a 2-1 defeat against Sweden on Thursday with a 4-0 victory over Georgia at the weekend, which sees them top Group B with 10 points.

Hello and welcome to our LIVE match commentary of the World Cup qualifying game between Kosovo and Spain.

  317 Hits

Former Ghana star Preko unhappy by timing of Akonnor sacking calls

The ex-international has shared his thoughts on the situation of the Black Stars boss following a run of poor performances

Former Ghana winger Yaw Preko disagrees with calls for the sacking of Black Stars coach CK Akonnor who has come under fire following a 1-0 defeat to South Africa in the 2022 World Cup qualifiers on Monday.

In his 10th game at the helm of affairs, the former Wolfsburg skipper saw his side bow to Bafana in a matchday two fixture, three days after labouring to beat Ethiopia 1-0 at home.

It was the sixth time his team had failed to win a match, three of his four victories as head coach coming against teams placed lower than 120 on the Fifa ranking.

“The sacking is too early, it’s just two games,” Preko, who featured at the 2000 Africa Cup of Nations, told Joy Sports.

“He has already qualified us to the Afcon and we just played two matches so why do we have to push the panic button? No, we have to take it easy.

“I know how everybody is feeling. If you sack him now and bring another coach and we don’t qualify, he will tell you his time was very short and that you need to give him time. If he doesn’t qualify, are you going to sack him too? Then we’ll end up just always sacking.

“Let’s give him the support and benefit of the doubt. We know he can do it, we have to believe in him. Sometimes when the bashing is too much, the person gets confused.”

Monday’s match was Akonnor’s second defeat in his last four matches, in which his side has scored only one goal.

Following the recent loss, Ghana have dropped from first to third on the qualifying table in Group G, behind South Africa and second-placed Ethiopia.

“Ghanaians should support CK Akonnor because it’s never too late. The current players in the Black Stars are the best he has now,” 1978 Afcon winner Mohammed Polo earlier told Otec FM.

“Let us support him and see the way forward. Let’s support our own because the foreign coaches only come and spend our money.”

Akonnor will next lead Ghana into action next month when the Black Stars take on Zimbabwe in a double-header in the World Cup qualifiers.

(Originally posted by Prince Narkortu Teye)
  289 Hits

Man Utd can challenge for title with Ronaldo, claims Rooney

The 36-year-old Portugal star is back for his second spell at Old Trafford and his former team-mate believes he can make the difference

Former Manchester United star Wayne Rooney has backed the club to battle for the Premier League crown with Cristiano Ronaldo back in the squad. 

Ronaldo and Rooney starred together at Old Trafford, winning three consecutive titles between 2006 and the Portuguese's exit in 2009 and also lifting the Champions League in 2007-08. 

And with the striker now gearing up for his second spell at the club, his ex-colleague has no doubt that he will prove pivotal to their efforts.

What was said? 

“What impact will Ronaldo have? An enormous one, I think he’s still one of the best players in the world," Rooney explained to talkSPORT.

“I think we’ve seen in the game against Ireland that’s what he does, last couple of minutes he scores two goals, two great headers, so he can have a massive impact on this league.”

“I think United are finally ready to go and challenge for the title, and I really feel they have to this year,” Rooney added.

“[Ronaldo’s] going to be a big player, I think he’ll have very big moments in the season and I’m sure he’ll score a lot of goals.”

'Ready to go' 

The former Madrid and Juventus star will turn 37 towards the end of the current season, making him an elder statesman in Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's squad. 

But he continues to defy the years with his impeccable physical shape and Rooney believes he will have no problem keeping up with the pace of the English game.

“I follow Manchester United, I want them to do well, and I think it’s great for them that they’ve brought Cristiano back,” he added. 

“I think his mentality will rub off on the younger players especially, so I think it’s great timing. 

“I think Cristiano will know himself it’s not going to be as simple or as straightforward as it was in Spain or in Italy for him.

“It’s a physical league, he knows, he’s played in it, so I’m sure he’s prepared and he’s ready to go and score goals again for Manchester United.”

Further reading 

(Originally posted by Goal)
  317 Hits

Not easy for new Super Eagles team with a synthetic pitch – Rohr

Lifted by their victory against Bubista’s Blue Sharks, the German tactician has expressed his team’s desire to keep on winning

Nigeria want to keep winning, according to coach Gernot Rohr following the Super Eagles defeat of Cape Verde on Tuesday evening.

A lacklustre performance by the Blue Sharks saw them surrender their lead before crumbling 2-1 to the three-time African champions.

Thanks to the win in Mindelo, the West Africans now boast six points from two matches to brighten their chances of qualifying for the 2022 Fifa World Cup in Qatar.

While addressing the media, the German tactician confessed that it was not an easy task subduing their hosts. Notwithstanding, he has set his sight on continuing their unblemished streak.

“It was a very difficult game for us because Cape Verde are a very good team, we played on a synthetic pitch and we had to pick a new team after the first match against Liberia,” Rohr told media.

“It was not easy, all in three days to pick another team but in Nigeria, we have players everywhere all over the world as you could see.

“We are happy to win because it is not easy when you concede the first goal and you play away with other conditions, it's not easy to come back, against a good team.

“For the second goal, we made good pressing and the defender wanted to do a pass to his goalkeeper and we took advantage of that. We want to continue winning our games and to play well.”

Rohr also gave his assessment on the performances of debutants Innocent Bonke and Michael Kingsley against Bubista’s side. 

“Bonke and Kingsley played their first game with us, you know Bonke did very well at his club, Malmo as they qualified for the Champions League so we had him already in our scout list and the opportunity came when we lost all our midfielders,” he continued.

“Kingsley who is also a starting player at Bologna. They did very well. At the beginning of the match, we missed the harmony in the midfield because it was the first time, but they did the job very well.

“And I think they played very well in a professional way and friendly spirit.”

(Originally posted by Shina Oludare)
  312 Hits

Nigeria captain Musa gives teammates five million naira after 100th international cap

The Fatih Karagumruk forward marked his milestone feat in the national team colours by giving money to Gernot Rohr's team

Ahmed Musa has given his Super Eagles teammates the sum of 5 million naira to share as part of the celebration for his 100th appearance in the national team.

The 28-year-old joined the illustrious list of Nigeria’s centurions on Tuesday after his starting role in their 2-1 triumph over Cape Verde in the 2022 Fifa World Cup qualifiers.

He was later replaced by Lorient striker Terem Moffi in the 73rd minute as Gernot Rohr’s side maintained their 100 percent start for a spot in Qatar 2022.

In rewarding the milestone, the President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Amaju Pinnick assured the NFF will start giving every player who reaches the century of appearances 10 million naira as a gift.

“On behalf of the Nigeria Football Federation, from today when you mark your 100th cap you will get 10 million naira so Musa will get his 10 million and as we're getting to Nigeria, we will call Air Peace to get the 20 million naira promised for winning,” Pinnick told NFF TV.

"You have demonstrated the true Nigerian spirit and you have made us very happy.”

Immediately after Pinnick’s comment, Musa gave out half of the 10 million naira to his teammates as he thanked them for their support.

He said: “I really appreciate the gift, Mr. President and on behalf of my family, I will say thank you very much to everyone and for the coach, I really appreciate what you've been doing for me. You have made me who I am today and I thank you very much.

“And for my teammates, I don't have anything to say and for the 10m, I'm giving out 5 million naira to the team.”

Musa made his Super Eagles debut at the age of 17 in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against Madagascar. He has scored 15 goals so far for the three-time African champions and he was part of the team that won the 2013 Afcon title in South Africa.

The former Kano Pillars and Leicester City star is just a game away from equalling Joseph Yobo and Vincent Enyeama's all-time appearance record (101 matches) for Nigeria.

(Originally posted by Taiye Taiwo)
  387 Hits

'The attitude of champions' - Pinnick on Super Eagles victory against Cape Verde

Gernot Rohr’s men have been lauded for their resolute display against the Blue Sharks on Tuesday evening

NFF President Amaju Pinnick has claimed the Super Eagles defeated Cape Verde because they have ‘the attitude of champions’.

The three-time African kings brightened their chances for a place in Qatar 2022 thanks to a 2-1 defeat of the Blues Sharks at Estadio Municipal Aderito Sena.

Despite conceding first, Gernot Rohr’s men secured a comeback triumph having capitalised on their hosts’ defensive blunders.

After the game, the Fifa executive committee member showered encomium on Gernot Rohr’s team for their fighting spirit, notwithstanding the absence of the UK-based players.

“That was what I call a fighting performance. That is the universally acknowledged ‘Nigerian spirit’. That is the attitude of champions,” Pinnick was quoted by NFF media.

“The pitch was not the best; the weather was not ideal, but they remained focused on the big picture and eked a win that guaranteed all the points. Six maximum points from two matches are something to celebrate.

“Against Liberia in Lagos, they played on a wet pitch because it rained and still got the job done. Against Cape Verde, they were a goal down on an artificial turf they would rather not play on, yet they took to the task with the mentality of winners and left with the spoils.

“We have not won the group yet, but we are in a good place and I see us picking the ticket to the knockout round before the final day of the group phase.

“While we would have loved to have the UK-based players on the trip, I am enamoured by the fighting spirit of those who picked shirts. They delivered with aplomb and this has certainly provided depth for the squad going forward.

“Now, we must sustain the momentum. It is important that the team is able to replicate the same strong focus, the same compact play, the same fighting spirit and the same marksmanship in the double face-off with the Central African Republic early next month.”

Meanwhile, the Super Eagles returned to Lagos aboard Air Peace airline after leaving Mindelo. Most of the foreign-based professionals depart for their respective clubs at least on Thursday morning.

Nigeria host the Central African Republic in Lagos in their next qualification fixture in October.

(Originally posted by Shina Oludare)
  316 Hits

Women's World Cup Daily: Quarterfinal preview, predictions

Lionel Messi and co. are understandably clear favourites to record a victory...

Argentina host Bolivia on Thursday with Lionel Scaloni's side aiming to claim another win in CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying.

The Albiceleste saw their weekend clash with Brazil called off in surreal circumstances with local health officials intervening once the game had kicked off.

Back on home soil and with all their players available against Bolivia, the two-time World Cup winners are clear favourites against one of the continent's poorest sides.

Here's how to watch Argentina vs Bolivia in the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers from India.

Contents

What time is Argentina vs Bolivia? How to watch on TV & live stream in India Argentina vs Bolivia: Team news & stats
 

What time does Argentina vs Bolivia start?

Game Argentina vs Bolivia
Date Friday, September 10
Time 5am IST

Return to top

 

How to watch Argentina vs Bolivia on TV & live stream in India

In India, the CONMEBOL FIFA World Cup 2022 qualifiers will neither be telecasted on TV nor streamed online in the absence of an official broadcaster. Fans in India will have to find alternate means of watching or following the match. 

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Argentina vs Bolivia: Team news & key stats

Emiliano Martinez, Emiliano Buendia, Giovanni Lo Celso and Cristian Romero were the four Premier League players said to have breached coronavirus regulations causing the fiasco in Brazil.

Martinez, Romero and Lo Celso all started the game and would expect to feature from the off once more.

Lionel Messi is also likely to start the game despite having featured for just 24 minutes for new club Paris Saint-Germain this season.

La Verde will welcome striker Carmelo Algaranaz back from suspension, although defender Diego Berjarano remains sidelined through injury.

Key Stats:

Bolivia arrive Buenos Aires with the worst defensive record in the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying tournament having conceded 19 times in eight matches.
  La Verde however have scored as many goals as their more illustrious opponents, with both teams having netted 12 times and there should be plenty of interest in backing goals at both ends, despite Bolivia's awful away record.
  Cesar Farias' team have netted in each of their last three away World Cup qualifiers, the most recent of which saw them score twice in a 4-2 defeat in Uruguay at the weekend.
  Bolivia have conceded in each of their last 24 games in all competitions, so Argentina will be confident of finding the back of the net. 

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(Originally posted by Anselm Noronha)
  273 Hits

France Women's World Cup commercial has unexpected twist

The most recent meeting between these sides came in the semi-finals of the Copa America two months ago, where Brazil triumphed 1-0

Brazil host Peru at the Itaipava Arena on Thursday with Tite's side aiming to extend their perfect record in CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying.

The five-time world champions have won all seven of their matches in the tournament and, despite the surreal circumstances surrounding the abandonment of their weekend match with Argentina, La Canarinha will be confident of claiming another victory against Peru.

Here's how to watch Brazil vs Peru in the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers from India.

Contents

What time is Brazil vs Peru? How to watch on TV & live stream in India Brazil vs Peru: Team news & stats
 

What time does Brazil vs Peru start?

Game Brazil vs Peru
Date Friday, September 10
Time 6am IST

Return to top

 

How to watch Brazil vs Peru on TV & live stream in India

In India, the CONMEBOL FIFA World Cup 2022 qualifiers will neither be telecasted on TV nor streamed online in the absence of an official broadcaster. Fans in India will have to find alternate means of watching or following the match. 

Return to top

 

Brazil vs Peru: Team news & key stats

Brazil are without any of their Premier League-based players meaning the likes of Alisson, Fabinho, Roberto Firmino, Ederson, Gabriel Jesus, Thiago Silva and Fred are all missing.

Third-choice goalkeeper Weverton is likely to start once more, with Gabriel Barbosa set to be paired with Neymar up front.

Peru have no major absentees and look set to field a similar starting XI to the one which beat Venezuela at the weekend.

Key Stats:

Brazil's dominance of this competition has stemmed from their exceptional defensive record, with the side conceding just twice in seven matches.
  Peru, for their part, are the third-lowest scorers, managing just eight goals in their seven games and the visitors look to be in for another difficult evening in the final third.
  These sides met twice at the Copa America this summer, with Brazil managing a clean sheet on both occasions, their 1-0 win in the last four preceded by a 4-0 group-stage victory and backing the hosts to record another shutout makes plenty of sense.
  Peru have failed to score three times already in the qualifying tournament and against the outstanding team in the competition they are likely to struggle.

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(Originally posted by Anselm Noronha)
  235 Hits

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