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Crisis club of the week: Atletico Madrid

61' Sevilla continue to put good crosses into the box, but neither De Jong nor Ocampos can get close to the ball. Instead, Ocampos drifts out to the left and attempts a spectacular right-footed shot, missing the top-right corner by some distance.

59' Just over from Young! Inter work the ball smartly down the right and Brozovic wins a corner, which is taken short. Young eventually shoots from a central position but cannot hit the target.

57' CLOSE! Wonderful play first from Ocampos and then from Reguilon! Ocampos juggles the ball on halfway and plays a superb switch out to Reguilon. The left-back runs directly at Godin and works a narrow angle for a shot, blasting into the side-netting.

54' Banega plays a chip into the box to De Jong, who controls well and then looks to beat a man but is crowded out. Sevilla keep the attack alive, but Suso's left-footed shot is tame and easily blocked.

52' BLOCK! Huge block! Diego Carlos! Much better from the Sevilla defender! A cross from the right runs for Gagliardini, who looks to place a finish beyond Bounou. Diego Carlos intervenes with a desperate lunge.

51' A couple of niggly fouls are just slowing the pace. Barella is sandwiched between Diego Carlos and Banega, who have both already been booked. Just a free-kick.

49' There is a slightly more reserved start to the second period than there was to the first. Inter are able to keep the ball at the back for an extended period.

47' Diego Carlos endured a tough first half. His first involvement in the second period is a wild first-time shot from 35 yards that lands well over the top.

46' KICK-OFF: De Jong gets us back under way in Cologne!

De Jong is the first Dutchman to score a brace in a major UEFA European final since Pierre van Hooijdonk in the 2001-02 UEFA Cup showpiece for Feyenoord. The last Dutchman to score once in such a match was Bayern Munich's Arjen Robben in the 2012-13 Champions League decider.

Well, this is shaping up to be a classic! It's 2-2 at the break and the action has scarcely stopped. Diego Carlos - hapless in defence - dragged down Lukaku for a penalty dispatched by Inter's top scorer, but two delightful De Jong headers had Sevilla in front. Diego Carlos then fouled Lukaku again, though, and Godin nodded an equaliser from the free-kick. This game shows no signs of slowing.

45' + 2' HALF-TIME: Sevilla 2-2 Inter

45' + 2' SAVE! Handanovic denies Ocampos! The last action of the first half comes from another Sevilla free-kick taken by Banega, this time picking out Ocampos. His header is dropping just beneath the crossbar before Handanovic gets a touch and the whistle blows.

45' + 1' There will be a minimum of one minute of added time at the end of this first half.

43' The momentum is swinging back and forth in this one. Bastoni hacks the ball out of play as Sevilla force Inter back. This has been a gripping contest so far.

39' De Jong might have had a hat-trick if he was more alert! Navas fizzes in another excellent cross, but De Jong is slow to react as the ball passes through the box.

37' This is the first major UEFA final to see both sides score twice in the first half since the 2014-15 Europa League final between Sevilla and Dnipro. That was 2-2 at half-time.

36' Godin becomes just the sixth player to score in both a European Cup or Champions League final and a UEFA Cup or Europa League final - along with Steven Gerrard, Hernan Crespo, Dmitri Alenichev, Allan Simonsen and Pedro.

34' This is De Jong's first ever brace for Sevilla in any competition.

30' Inter enjoy a promising spell, getting men forward in attack with two of their three centre-backs also pushed on. But Sevilla hold firm on the edge of their own box.

28' Lukaku races in behind and stays onside but is all alone. The forward holds the ball up and his hopeful cross is only half-cleared, allowing Gagliardini to send in a deep centre. D'Ambrosio heads well wide.

27' Navas wins a cheap free-kick from Martinez 30 yards from the Inter goal, giving Banega an opportunity to deliver. He finds Ocampos, but a speculative Ocampos header loops over.

26' Sevilla look a real threat when aiming crosses in towards De Jong. Bastoni gets up really well to beat the forward to Reguilon's delivery.

25' Ocampos was a slight doubt for this game and has gone down a couple of times already. He quickly recovers from his latest apparent knock following a challenge with D'Ambrosio, though.

24' The game has finally just settled for the first time. A Young cross from the left comes to nothing.

22' WIDE! Ocampos has Handanovic scrambling! Wide out on the left, the winger sees a gap at the near post and thumps in a low strike. It hits the side-netting, but the goalkeeper is uncertain for a second.

20' Good defending! And Navas is not happy with Martinez! The Inter forward breaks following Sevilla's wasted free-kick, ignoring the option of Lukaku to his left. Martinez gets into the area and goes to ground, but Navas gets the ball and cannot believe the forward appeals for a penalty. No foul.

19' D'Ambrosio and Reguilon clash again! Sevilla again get a free-kick but no more, and Inter clear easily.

18' CHANCE! This is a very lively start! D'Ambrosio stabs over! The right-sided wing-back meets the cross from Young, the left-sided wing-back, but cannot slow his run suitably to turn a shot on target.

18' Yellow card... for Conte! The Inter coach's protests following the penalty appeal earn him a booking. Tempers are flaring already.

17' APPEAL! Inter want another penalty! It's Diego Carlos again! Barella chips a pass through to Lukaku, but the ball strikes Diego Carlos' arm and bounces away. The referee is unmoved, insisting the defender's arm is by his side.

15' So back come Sevilla. Ocampos cuts inside from the left and sends a tame shot straight at Handanovic.

14' This is the earliest a UEFA Cup or Europa League final has seen both sides score since 1989-90, which was 1-1 between Fiorentina and Juventus after 10 minutes.

13' De Jong has scored in consecutive Europa League matches for the first time since February 2011. He was playing for Twente then.

11' Sevilla win a corner on the right, which is delivered deep towards De Jong. A header back across goal briefly appears to give Diego Carlos an opportunity to make amends, but he cannot make clean contact with an overhead kick and fails to get a header on target from the next cross.

8' Sevilla were on the front foot from the off, but now Inter, a goal up, are dictating play. Sevilla recovered from an early setback in the semi-final, of course, when Diego Carlos similarly conceded a penalty against United.

7' The Belgium striker has 34 goals this season in all competitions. The last Inter player to net as many in his first campaign for the Nerazzurri was Ronaldo in 1997-98.

6' Lukaku has now scored in 11 consecutive Europa League games, netting 15 times across those matches.

4' PENALTY! Inter have an early spot-kick! Lukaku, so ruthless against Shakhtar, tears away from Diego Carlos into the area and goes down under the defender's challenge just inside the box. The referee points to the spot.

3' Suso's initial free-kick from the left is nodded clear. The ball is returned to the box following a throw-in, but Fernando's acrobatic strike is blocked.

1' Sevilla quickly take control of possession and a ball down the left flank sees D'Ambrosio and Reguilon collide. The Spanish side get a free-kick as D'Ambrosio puts his arm up towards Reguilon's face, but they want a red card. The referee disagrees.

1' KICK-OFF: Lukaku gets us up and running in Germany!

Sevilla are 20 unbeaten in all competitions (11 wins, nine draws), a club record. However, Inter are aiming to win a sixth consecutive major UEFA European match for just the second time (also in 2009-10).

Sevilla make one change as semi-final hero De Jong comes into the XI, with Ocampos also passed fit to start. Former Inter midfielder Banega makes his final Sevilla appearance. Perhaps unsurprisingly, Antonio Conte's side are unchanged as Lukaku and Martinez again lead the line.

Subs: Daniele Padelli, Alexis Sanchez, Victor Moses, Stefano Sensi, Andrea Ranocchia, Borja Valero, Christian Eriksen, Sebastiano Esposito, Lorenzo Pirola, Cristiano Biraghi, Milan Skriniar, Antonio Candreva.

Inter (3-5-2): Samir Handanovic; Diego Godin, Stefan de Vrij, Alessandro Bastoni; Danilo D'Ambrosio, Nicolo Barella, Marcelo Brozovic, Roberto Gagliardini, Ashley Young; Romelu Lukaku, Lautaro Martinez.

Subs: Tomas Vaclik, Javi Diaz, Sergi Gomez, Munir El Haddadi, Nemanja Gudelj, Sergio Escudero, Oliver Torres, Franco Vazquez, Jose Lara, Genaro Rodriguez, Pablo Perez Rico, Youssef En-Nesyri.

Sevilla (4-3-3): Yassine Bounou; Jesus Navas, Jules Kounde, Diego Carlos, Sergio Reguilon; Joan Jordan, Fernando, Ever Banega; Lucas Ocampos, Luuk de Jong, Suso.

Let's get the team news...

Both of these sides have already qualified for next season's Champions League, meaning all eyes are instead on silverware! Sevilla have won the UEFA Cup or Europa League a record five times, while Inter are joint-second in that list on three triumphs. The Nerazzurri have also three times been European champions, of course.

Two experienced European campaigners meet in this decider in Cologne despite slightly contrasting results in the semi-finals. Sevilla had to come from behind to upset Manchester United, while Inter breezed past Shakhtar Donetsk.

Hello and welcome to our live text commentary of the Europa League final between Sevilla and Inter!

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USMNT's Chris Richards out of World Cup

The Timu ya Wananchi are set to unveil their long-term target on Saturday as they continue with their building process

Yanga SC are on the verge of unveiling their long-term target Michael Sarpong.

The Ghanaian striker, who was also a target for their fellow Tanzanian giants Simba SC, arrived in Dar es Salaam on Friday ahead of his unveiling, set to take place on Saturday.

The former Rayon Sports forward was a free agent and had attracted interest from the two rivals, with former Yanga coach Luc Eymael listing him as one of the club’s transfer targets before he was sacked at the end of the 2019-20 Mainland Premier League season.

Yanga media officer Hassan Bumbuli has confirmed to Goal that they are happy to have secured the services of the player, whom they had tracked for many years.

“As you can see, Sarpong arrived [on Friday] and we will unveil him on Saturday,” Bumbuli began. “It was not an easy transfer because several teams were fighting for his signature including Simba but I am happy at the end he picked Yanga.”

Bumbuli went further to assure fans they are still in the market for other top signings, although he stopped short of giving names, adding they want to build a strong team to fight for trophies on all fronts come next season.

“We ask our fans to be patient because we have just started,” Bumbuli continued. “We are very keen on the kind of transfers we are doing, we don’t want to sign players just because we are signing…no, we are looking at every players’ quality and we also want to know when they come, what benefit will they give the club.

“The fans should continue giving us the support, we will not let them down, we will make sure they are happy in the new season.”

Sarpong’s contract with Rayon Sports was terminated after he refused to accept the decision by the club to stop paying salaries of players for three months owing to the effects caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

On Thursday, Yanga welcomed Tuisila Kisinda and Mukoko Tonombe of AS Vita from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, both of whom penned a two-year contract.

Yanga are in a rebuilding process having axed 14 players among them former Gor Mahia striker Gnamien Yikpe, who took much criticism last season, captain Papy Tshishimbi, who refused to renew his contract, and Congolese striker David Molinga.

Other players axed included veteran striker Mrisho Ngassa, Jafary Mohamed, Mohamed Issa Banka, Tariq Seif, Andrew Vincent Dante, Patrick Sibomana, Muharami Issa, Ali Ali, Rafael Daud, Ali Mtoni Sonso and Eric Kabamba.

Original author: Dennis Mabuka
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Tigres, Chivas draw in Liga MX final first leg

The writer tweeted that the custodian had been involved in the illegal act after he received two yellow cards in a span of two minutes

Kenya and HIFK Fotboll star Arnold Origi has forgiven Finnish journalist Pekka Holopainen for claiming the goalkeeper was involved in a match-fixing incident.

Origi was red-carded when HIFK Fotboll played and lost 3-2 to Inter Turku on August 14 which led to the journalist claiming, in a Twitter post, that the Kenyan goalkeeper had deliberately been sent off in the 89th minute.

“It was important for me to meet Pekka Holopainen face to face. When I heard the news of what he had said, I was very disappointed and angry,” Origi said in a statement obtained by Goal. “There are many people who just make an apology without really meaning it, because it belongs and because you should not lose face in public.

"He's an experienced journalist, so he should have known better before publishing his tweet," the stopper added. “Therefore, I did not buy his apology on Twitter but wanted to meet him to make sure he really means it.

“Holopainen got in touch and wanted to meet me, so we decided to go to lunch together. I could see from his eyes that he was really sad, and he told me that it was a dark moment for him when he wrote the comment.”

The Kenya star said he was convinced Holopainen was very sorry for what he said after analysing him thoroughly during their one-on-one meeting.

“At the base of our discussion, I could see that he was sincere when he apologised,” Origi added. “We have all made mistakes and said stupid things, which you later regret. He regretted his mistake and thus I could forgive him.

“There is a lot in our society today that is about spreading false rumours and hanging out with other people on social media after they have made a mistake.

“I do not want to be a part of this and have even made mistakes myself several times. If someone disappears, but then is genuinely remorseful and apologises, you can talk through the situation together and then move on to the next chapter.

“Holopainen and I have met, said what we have to say to each other, and now we can forget what happened and move on.”

Origi was shown the red card after he had also been booked in the 87th minute.

 

 

Original author: Kiplagat Sang
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Transfer Talk: USMNT's Adams on Man Utd radar if Leeds relegated

The 20-year-old forward has impressed so far for Les Aiglons since transferring from Lyon

New OGC Nice recruit Hassane Kamara has praised fellow new signing Amine Gouiri for displaying a certain degree of maturity in the short space he has been with the club.

The Franco-Algerian wonderkid joined Les Aiglons from Olympique Lyon in a four-year deal worth €7 million.

He has already hit the ground running, scoring three goals in pre-season. Gouiri netted a brace in a 6-0 bashing of Slovak side Dunajska Streda before scoring the consolation goal in a 4-1 defeat by Austrian giants Red Bull Salzburg.

Kamara, for his part, joined from Reims and got a goal for himself in pre-season in a 2-1 victory over Standard Liege.

“Amine and I arrived at the same time. He is young but he already has a certain maturity,” the Franco-Gambian left-back was reported saying in FootMercato . “He knows where he wants to go, he has ambition.

"When I spoke with him, he told me he wanted to have a great career and go far. He knows he is young and that he needs to work and improve in several areas. He is motivated and serious. He tries to do his best to achieve his goals.

“On the field, he was able to show his qualities directly. He is a number 9 but the coach used him a little more on the left. At no time did I see him baulk. He performed well. He has scored goals and he shows he came here to work and perform. He's a really good teammate.”

Gouiri made the move to Nice due to lack of playing opportunities at Lyon where he featured just 15 times in all competitions since his break-through in 2017, eight of those outings coming in Ligue 1.

He has acknowledged that Les Gones did not stand in his way of a transfer and that he was attracted by ambitions of Nice under former France international and Arsenal midfielder Patrick Vieira.

“I spoke with [Lyon sporting director] Juninho. He understood my choice to join Nice,” Gouiri said. “[Vieira] spoke to me very well about the club project. I was directly hooked.

"It's an ambitious club like me."

Gouiri will begin his competitive adventure with Nice when they host newly promoted RC Lens in Ligue 1 on Sunday.

Original author: Kunle Fayiga
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Follow live: Chivas seek 13th title, face Tigres in Liga MX finals

The Nigeria internationals are yet to recover fully from the injuries that ruled them out of last Sunday's visit to Livingston

Rangers manager Steven Gerrard has confirmed Leon Balogun and Joe Aribo will miss their Premiership fixture against Kilmarnock on Saturday.

The Super Eagles duo were dropped from the Gers’ trip to Livingston last Sunday due to injuries and they will miss their second game in a row this season.

Balogun sustained an injury around his quadriceps during Rangers’ 3-0 win over St. Johnstone while Aribo suffered a knock during a training session before the game in Livingston last week.

Ahead of Saturday's match against Kilmarnock, Gerrard disclosed that the Nigeria internationals are still not ready, while long-term absentee Jermain Defoe is not expected back until after September’s international break.

"Leon Balogun and Joe Aribo won't make the weekend,” Gerrard told the club website. “They are the players who are ruled out.

“Allan McGregor is back fit and he's trained with us for the first time yesterday and come through with no issues.

“Jermain Defoe still won't be seen until after the international break.”

Gerrard added that Saturday’s encounter at Ibrox Stadium is too early for Balogun and Aribo, however, he expects them to be in contention for their next Premiership outing against Hamilton Academical on August 29.

"I think [Leon and Joe] have both got a very good chance for next week, we've obviously not got a game in midweek, so I expect them to have a real strong chance for next week," he said. "This weekend has come too soon for both."

Following the end of his short-term deal at Wigan Athletic, Balogun joined Rangers on a free transfer and he has proven his defensive capabilities with solid performances in his first three appearances in the Scottish top-flight.

He was named in the Premiership Team of the Week following his fine debut outing against Aberdeen as the Gers kept a clean sheet and bagged an away win in their first game of the season.

Aribo, on the other hand, has also established himself as a key player in Gerrard’s team with his displays in the middle of the park.

The 24-year-old opened his goal account for the 2020-21 season by sealing Rangers' 3-0 victory against St. Johnstone.

They sit at the summit of the Premiership table level on 10 points with Hibernian after four matches.

Original author: Taiye Taiwo
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Kibwage on steady Harambee Stars growth, KCB and Sofapaka leadership roles

The former Spurs midfielder thinks Jose Mourinho will struggle to steer the club back into Europe's elite competition next season

Tottenham need two or three more signings to challenge for a spot in the top four in 2020-21, says Jermaine Jenas.

Spurs salvaged a sixth-place Premier League finish under Jose Mourinho last term, following an impressive run of results post-lockdown.

The Lilywhites picked up 18 points from a possible 27 in their final nine fixtures, but ultimately failed to qualify for the Champions League for the first time in five years.

Mauricio Pochettino oversaw a poor start to the campaign from which Tottenham were unable to recover, despite Mourinho's best efforts.

The Portuguese has been able to gradually instil a winning mentality into the squad since replacing Pochettino in November, but has also faced criticism for his perceived negative tactics and rigid setup.

Although Spurs have been able to strengthen by bringing in Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg from Southampton for £15 million (£20m), along with former England goalkeeper Joe Hart on a free transfer, Jenas believes his old club are still short on depth.

He cannot see Mourinho guiding his current crop back into the Champions League, and has called for further investment to be made if they are to bridge the gap on English football's top clubs.

“I am worried, if I’m totally honest with you. I don’t see Tottenham getting in the top four, as it stands right now," ex-Tottenham midfielder Jenas told talkSPORT.

“I’ve not seen anything in regards to a level of performance that tells me they’re going to break in.

“The end of the season was positive but it was getting results in not the most beautiful way. That’s Jose’s way and I think a lot of Tottenham fans will still take that, because the results are the most important thing.

“But the way I see it right now, they need to bring in at least two or three players and, if they don’t do that, I don’t see how they possibly can get into the top-four.”

One man who has continually been linked with a move to Spurs is Gareth Bale, who left the club to join Real Madrid back in 2013.

The Welshman has endured another turbulent year at Santiago Bernabeu which has seen him fall out of favour with Zinedine Zidane, and Tottenham legend Jurgen Klinsmann has been the latest man to suggest it is time for the winger to retrace his steps.

“The most important thing for every player is to be on the field and to play," said the former Germany international. "When this doesn’t work out, sooner or later you have to come to a conclusion and consider a move.

"As a Tottenham fan, I would love him to come back to Spurs.”

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Bielsa denies reports he is close to signing fresh two-year deal at Leeds United

The Nigeria international was in action to help the Calatans defeat their Spanish rivals at San Mames Stadium on Friday

Asisat Oshoala provided an assist as Barcelona advanced into the semi-final of the Uefa Women's Champions League following a 1-0 win against Atletico Madrid in Bilbao on Friday. 

After an 8-1 aggregate victory over Minsk last October, the Nigeria international played a key role to help the Catalans seal their progress to the last four of the tournament.

Oshoala, who had scored 26 goals in 26 appearances this season, was handed her fourth Champions League outing this term and made her sixth meeting with Atletico since arriving in Spain.

Lluis Cortes' team enjoyed the bulk of possession but could not find a breakthrough past the rock-solid defence of Atletico as both teams went into the half-time break tied.

After the restart, Barcelona continued with their dominance but failed to break the resistance of Dani Gonzalez's side until Oshoala's miscued acrobatic effort fell into defensive midfielder Kheira Hamraoui's path, and she duly grabbed the winner 10 minutes from time.

Oshoala, who was in action for 82 minutes before being replaced by Aitana Bonmati, has now contributed an assist and a goal in five outings for Barcelona in the competition this season.

The 26-year-old striker has now been involved in Barcelona's last five victories against Atletico in all competitions, scoring four goals.

She will hope to help Barcelona continue in the same vein in the semi-final of the tournament on August 25 when they take on Wolfsburg, who humiliated Glasgow City 9-1.

Original author: Samuel Ahmadu
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Pep Guardiola vs Mauricio Pochettino: Complete head-to-head record

The Blues are closing in on their third major signing of the year, with the Foxes set to sanction the departure of the England defender

Chelsea are on the verge of signing left-back Ben Chilwell from Leicester in a £50 million ($65m) deal.

Goal has learned that the Blues are close to reaching an agreement with the Foxes that will see Chilwell complete a move to Stamford Bridge ahead of the 2020-21 season.

The 23-year-old is currently sidelined with a heel injury, but he has undergone medical checks on the issue in London as Chelsea continue to keep a close eye on his recovery.

Bringing in a new left-back has been a priority for head coach Frank Lampard, with Marcos Alonso struggling to convince in the role and Emerson Palmieri touted for a move away from Stamford Bridge.

Nicolas Tagliafico, Alex Telles and Marc Cucurella have also been linked with the Blues, but Chilwell has always been their top target, and a breakthrough in negotiations with Leicester now appears imminent.

With Chelsea now looking elsewhere, Tagliafico could be set for a move to the Bundesliga as he considers an offer from Germany.

Chilwell is expected to return to full fitness within the next three weeks, with Chelsea's first game of the new campaign set to take place on September 14 away at Brighton.

The England international has racked up 163 appearances across all competitions for Leicester over the past five years, scoring six goals, while also providing 16 assists.

His performances last term helped the Foxes fight for Champions League qualification, but Brendan Rodgers' side ultimately ended up finishing fifth after a poor run of form post-lockdown.

Chilwell has also established himself as a regular in Gareth Southgate's Three Lions squad over the past 12 months, and was in contention to appear at Euro 2020 before the tournament was pushed back a year amid the coronavirus crisis.

Should Chilwell's switch to Chelsea go through as expected, he will become the third major signing of Frank Lampard's reign at Stamford Bridge.

Hakim Ziyech and Timo Werner have also arrived in west London from Ajax and RB Leipzig respectively, and the Blues are expected to continue splashing the cash in the coming weeks.

Chelsea are currently in talks with Bayer Leverkusen over a potential €80 million ($94m/£72m) deal for Germany midfielder Kai Havertz, but the Bundesliga outfit are holding out for an extra €20m (£18m/$24m).

Lampard has also been tipped to bring in a new first-choice goalkeeper, with Atletico Madrid No.1 Jan Oblak reportedly being eyed as a possible replacement for Kepa Arrizabalaga, who fell out of favour with the Blues boss last term.

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Huge boost for Bayern as Alphonso Davies returns to training after recovering from injury

The 27-year-old's first-half spot kick saw him notch in his sixth successive Europa League game

Inter striker Romelu Lukaku made a little piece of personal history during the Europa League final against Sevilla as he matched a feat last achieved by Cristiano Ronaldo.

The Belgium international, who departed Manchester United for San Siro last summer after a disappointing spell at Old Trafford, has exploded back to life under Antonio Conte and has now scored in six successive major European competition matches, levelling Ronaldo’s achievement from 2012 and 2013.

Lukaku opened the scoring with a penalty kick, which he slotted under Bono, after winning the opportunity himself as he was fouled by Diego Carlos after a quick break.

It was his 34th goal of the season and his 11th in Europe.

The 27-year-old’s six-game run began in the last-32, in which Inter found themselves after being eliminated from the Champions League, despite four goals from the striker. Ludogorets were Inter’s first opponents in February, and Lukaku scored in both legs to secure a 4-1 aggregate success.

Following the suspension of hostilities due to Covid-19, Inter went to the final stages in Germany, where they first tackled Getafe. A 2-0 win was marked by a Lukaku strike, and he was again on target as Bayer Leverkusen were defeated 2-1 in the quarter-finals, while he notched twice as Inter steamrollered Shakhtar Donetsk in the semis.

The penalty against Sevilla continued the remarkable run.

Cristiano Ronaldo, now at Inter’s arch-rivals Juventus, was with Real Madrid when he enjoyed his six-game scoring burst in Europe. 

The Portuguese’s goals all arrived in the Champions League, starting with one against Ajax that saw Los Blancos move through the group stages. In the knockout rounds, he scored in each leg as his former side Manchester United were defeated 3-2 on aggregate, while he struck three in two matches versus Galatasaray

His run was rounded off in a 4-1 away defeat by Borussia Dortmund, and though Madrid responded with a 2-0 success at the Bernabeu, in which Ronaldo played 90 minutes, he was unable to stretch his sequence to seven games.

During that campaign, Ronaldo scored 55 goals in 55 appearances, while also notching an impressive 13 assists.

Original author: Robin Bairner
  88 Hits

Trent Alexander-Arnold Discusses Significance of Fans' Return to Stadiums

Two former national stars have shared their thoughts about the West Africans' vacancy

Former Ghana attacker Mohammed Polo has advised the Football Association (GFA) against appointing an expatriate as their new technical director.

The national football's governing body is on the verge of filling the position which became vacant following the exit of Francis Oti Akenteng in March.

Six candidates, consisting of three expatriates and three locals, are in the running for the office, according to the GFA.

“It is very unfortunate [the GFA is also considering expatriate options] and are we buying foreign football?" Polo, who won the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) with Ghana in 1978, asked on Happy FM.

“We have our brand of football and we have to do everything possible to promote our own," he added. "There is nothing wrong going in for an expatriate coach but it doesn’t help us because they will change our brand of football.

“We should give the job to a Ghanaian. We are all available and ready to do the job only if they will call us."

Goal can confirm US-based Ghanaian coach Faisal Chibsah is among the six candidates in contention.

Former Kano Pillars and Asante Kotoko coach Abdul Malik Jabir and former Somalia head coach Bashir Hayford both applied for the job but were unable to make the final cut.

“We have our brand of football and we have to do everything possible to promote our own," Ghana's 1965 Afcon winner Osei Kofi similarly told Happy FM.

"There is nothing wrong going in for an expatriate coach but it doesn’t help us because they will change our brand of football.

“We should give the technical directorship job to a Ghanaian. We are all available and ready to do the job only if they will call us."

English coach Judan Ali has also been linked to the Ghana technical director job.

Akenteng left the big office after the GFA decided against renewing his expired contract.

“The process for selecting a technical director is over. The team that conducted the interview and went through the various processes, are yet to submit their recommendations and report to the Executive Council, for which reason a decision will be made as regards the appointment of a new technical director," GFA communications director Henry Asante Twum recently told Citi Sports.

"I will call on the general public to give us a few more days to settle on this particular candidate for the job,”

Original author: Prince Narkortu Teye
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Dael Fry only has to look at Ben Gibson to know a move to Burnley is an awful idea

Local police have claimed the Old Trafford club captain was involved in an altercation while on holiday on the Greek island of Mykonos

Manchester United captain Harry Maguire is "to be charged with aggravated assault" after an alleged altercation on holiday in Greece, local police have stated. 

The defender, 27, is fully cooperating with Greek police, according to his club, having been on holiday on the Greek island of Mykonos with friends and family following the conclusion of the season.

A police spokesman, Petros Vassilakis, told media outlets: "When the brawl was all sorted out, one of the two groups - with the football players - started verbally abusing officers. 

"There were several policemen there. At some point, one of the three members of the group - they were aged 27, 28, and 29 - threw a swing at one of the policemen and a fight ensued.

"All of the three were arrested but during the effort to do so, the other two, including the football player, got violent also. They threw down at least two policemen, hit them with their fists and kicked them.

"I can't tell you what they were telling us. All English swear words against the authorities and against the work of the police. All three, including the football player, are being held in custody, locked up in Mykonos cell.

"They will appear before a state prosecutor on the island of Syros later today to be charged with aggravated assault."

A statement shared by police with Goal claimed that "one of the detainees then tried to offer money so that the trial against them would not be completed".

Manchester United issued a statement following the reports: “The club is aware of an alleged incident involving Harry Maguire in Mykonos last night.

"Contact has been made with Harry, and he is fully cooperating with the Greek authorities. At this time we will be making no further comment."

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s squad have been given two weeks off following their exit from the Europa League at the hands of Sevilla last weekend. Maguire is in Greece with family and friends to enjoy a break before the start of United’s Premier League campaign next month.

The players have been limited as to where they can holiday this summer due to the quarantine restrictions in place because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Greece is currently on the 'safe to travel' list, which would mean Maguire would not have to self-isolate when he returns to England.  

The squad are expected back at their Carrington training base at the start of September to start preparations ahead of the new campaign.

They were due to play Burnley at Turf Moor in the opening fixture of the 2020-21 campaign but that clash has been postponed to allow United’s players extra rest after their Europa League exploits.

Consequently it looks likely they will get the new season underway against Crystal Palace at Old Trafford.

Maguire moved to Old Trafford last summer in an £80 million ($105m) move from Leicester City, and has quickly established himself as a key figure under manager Solskjaer.

The centre-back was made captain by Solskjaer during the course of last season, and was important to United as they finished third in the Premier League to qualify for the Champions League in 2020-21. He played in all 38 domestic league games.

Maguire was also key in United's runs to the semi-finals of three competitions - the Carabao Cup, FA Cup and Europa League.

Original author: Charlotte Duncker
  68 Hits

Sifiso Hlanti: Kaizer Chiefs target joins Swallows FC

The highly-rated teenage midfielder has been likened to Liverpool and Chelsea legends, but he wants to write his own story at the highest level

Jude Bellingham is eager to avoid comparisons with Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard, with the 17-year-old midfielder looking to become a star in his own right at Borussia Dortmund.

The talented teenager has been likened to the Liverpool and Chelsea legends since making a breakthrough at Birmingham.

As a powerful runner through the middle of the park, who also has an eye for goal, it is easy to see why Bellingham has been placed into an illustrious talent pool.

He is, however, just 12 months into a senior career and is aware that he has a long way to go.

Enjoying similar success to Gerrard and Lampard would be most welcome, but there is a desire on the part of a hot prospect to write his own story.

Bellingham told Sport1 on the back of his big-money move to Dortmund: “I am the first Jude Bellingham and I do not want to be compared with Gerrard or Lampard.

“They were great players without a doubt but I have different characteristics.

“I am a different player and a different person.”

Big things are expected of Bellingham, even when taking the Gerrard and Lampard talk out of the equation, but he claims to feel no weight of expectation from his transfer fee or standing under the brightest of spotlights.

He added: “To be honest, I do not feel any pressure. The pressure I put myself under is bigger than any price tag.”

Dortmund invested £25 million ($33m) in Bellingham’s potential when luring him away from Birmingham.

He had made just 44 senior appearances at that point, and never graced the top tier in England, but has settled quickly at Bundesliga giants.

The target has been found in pre-season outings, with Bellingham now looking to follow in the footsteps of team-mate Jadon Sancho by becoming the latest young Englishman to nail down a regular role for German giants.

He said of his plans for 2020-21: “Personally, I want to get as many minutes of play as possible - even in the big games.

“I want to provide assists, score goals and perform well.”

Dortmund are due to open their new domestic campaign with a home date against Borussia Monchengladbach on September 18.

Original author: Chris Burton
  69 Hits

Footballer, 22, quits because of online abuse

The UK government has announced new restrictions that mean anyone returning from the central European country must isolate for two weeks

Liverpool will continue their pre-season preparations in Austria despite the players facing a 14-day quarantine upon their return to the UK.

UK transport secretary, Grant Shapps, announced on Thursday that as of Saturday morning people returning to the UK from Austria, as well as Croatia and Trinidad and Tobago, will have to go into isolation for two weeks.

Klopp says the Reds have not considered ending their training camp early to avoid complications, because they are confident the players are safe where they are.

"Wherever we would be in the moment – if we would be in England or anywhere else or here in Austria – we would do absolutely everything possible to make sure that we create a safe place," he told the club's website.

"This is our first concern obviously because we could have stayed in England, that wouldn't have changed the situation at all for us, just the big difference for us for the training camp is we have only a short of period to prepare. So a training camp makes complete sense for us.

"Since we are here we trained, apart from two days, every day twice, which makes it really intense. We could do that at home but then the boys have to drive home, have to go there.

"It's just from a training point of view, it makes no sense that you put an extra intensity just at lunchtime and say: 'Wherever you want to go, you can go, but see you at four o'clock or whatever'.

"A training camp is for us very, very important to focus completely on the preparation. We train a lot, apart from that we speak a lot and we eat the right things, sleep enough and all that stuff, so that's why we wanted to do it.

"Obviously the world is still in a difficult place in the moment, in Europe as well, so we had to find a solution for the moment when France came on the list. We found that solution.

"Austria – together with Germany, I would say – in that moment had the best numbers, is pretty experienced in training camps in the summer, so we found this hotel here and they did an incredible job and now we are here in the safe place.

"We are in our own bubble, do nothing to bring anybody or ourselves in danger and just focus on football. In a couple of days, four or five days, we will back in England and finish the preparation and play first really, really important game against Arsenal. So that's it.”

Liverpool will take on Arsenal in the Community Shield on August 29.

  60 Hits

Sources: Mbappé out of PSG opener amid dispute

The former Reds midfielder has suggested that the talented teenager at the Allianz Arena may have edged ahead of the Scottish defender at Anfield

Alphonso Davies has, at just 19 years of age, already edged ahead of Andy Robertson in the battle to be considered the best left-back in world football, claims Liverpool legend John Barnes.

A former favourite at Anfield would have been expected to side with the Reds in that debate given his strong ties to the Merseyside outfit. Barnes is, however, of the opinion that a star turn for the Premier League champions has been knocked down the global pecking order.

Plenty have placed Robertson at the top of the left-back list in 2020, with the Scotland international proving to be a useful asset for Jurgen Klopp. Having been acquired from Hull City for just £8 million ($10m), Liverpool have found considerable value in the defender.

Davies, though, is showing at Bayern Munich that he can scale similar heights. The talented teenager boasts pace, allowing him to impact proceedings at both ends of the field, and still has plenty of potential to unlock in his game.

With that in mind, Barnes believes a man about to grace the 2020 Champions League final edges out one who claimed a winners’ medal in the 2019 European showpiece.

The Liverpool icon told BonusCodeBets: “I am not so sure if Andy Robertson is the best left-back at the moment, especially with the likes of Alphonso Davies coming through. For me, you always need to show consistency over a period of time, which is something he has shown at Bayern Munich.

“It comes down to putting someone in the right team, because I think that when you do find the right team that suits someone, they will thrive. Alphonso Davies has been extremely impressive this season, and he is only 19 years old, so he has many years of success coming his way.”

Robertson has acknowledged that Davies is an exciting prospect who could raise standards in his chosen profession to previously unseen heights.

He has said of the Canadian starlet: “He’s a phenomenal player, somebody I enjoy watching and I think the whole world is enjoying watching him at the minute and I’m no different. I think Alphonso Davies is already world-class and he can only get better.”

Original author: Chris Burton
  123 Hits

Steph Houghton provides fitness update ahead of Euro 2022

The 24-year-old Nigeria international has teamed up with the Pride of the East temporarily to reignite his career

Dutch Eredivisie side Twente have announced the signing of Tyronne Ebuehi on a season-long loan from Portuguese club Benfica with an option of signing him permanently.

The defender joined the Estadio da Luz outfit in May 2018 after impressing for Nigeria at the World Cup in Russia and penned a five-year deal with the side.

The 24-year-old, however, suffered a career-threatening injury two months after teaming up with the Eagles in a Champions Cup defeat by Juventus.

The defender subsequently missed the whole of 2018-19 season and has not made a single league appearance for the Portuguese club since joining the side. 

Ebuehi has, however, featured four times for Benfica B since he returned from injury and has teamed up with the Dutch outfit to reignite his career.

The former ADO Den Haag defender is delighted to sign for the Pride of the East and looks forward to making his contribution for the club.

"It feels great to be here at FC Twente. The conversations I had with the club were very positive and I am looking forward to playing here,” Ebuehi told the club website.

“In the past, I played against FC Twente with ADO. Twente is a big club and I want to prove myself here, but of course, also help the club."

Benfica technical director Jan Steuer hopes the Nigeria international will add value to the team, given his experience at ADO Den Haag.

 “It is great that we can add Tyronne Ebuehi to our selection. In his time at ADO Den Haag, Tyronne has shown to be a talented player,” Steuer said.

“It is not without reason that he was selected for the national team of Nigeria and played at the 2018 World Cup.

“In his first year with Benfica, Tyronne had a difficult season due to an injury, but last year he made his appearance for Benfica B. He is top fit and will hopefully be able to fully join our selection soon. ”

Ebuehi has eight appearances for Nigeria since he made his debut against Togo in a friendly in June 2017.

He will hope to feature consistently for Twente to boost his chances of being recalled for national team assignment.

 

 

 

 

 

Original author: Gbenga Adewoye
  81 Hits

The VAR Review: Why Kane was onside vs. Germany

A man who played in two FA Cup finals for the Old Trafford outfit is encouraged by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s work, but wants more additions to the squad

Nathan Ake would have been “a good buy” for Manchester United at £40 million ($52m), says Gordon Hill, with the Red Devils considered to be in need another centre-half to partner Harry Maguire.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has faced a number of calls for more defensive talent to be snapped up in the latest transfer window.

The option was there for Ake to be targeted on the back of Bournemouth’s relegation out of the Premier League, but he will be turning out in Manchester for City in 2020-21.

United are having to turn their attention elsewhere as a result, as they look to add again a year on from investing a record-breaking £80m ($105m) in England international Maguire.

Hill hopes another proven centre-half can be found – one to take Victor Lindelof’s place in the starting XI – with a man who graced two FA Cup finals in his playing days telling the Talk of the Devils Podcast: “We still need another centre half. Maguire is not the finished article and he needs help alongside him.

“Nathan Ake would have been a good buy, especially at that price, but he’s gone now – hopefully we can get another player of even better quality in.”

Regardless of the business that United are able to complete before the next deadline passes, Hill believes the club are back on the right track under the guidance of 1999 Treble winner Solskjaer.

He said: “There were some disappointments, but wow, didn’t United have a great time for the majority of that mini-season, and you have to say they exceeded expectations both from the start of the season and then even in March, when going into the lockdown they were some way behind Leicester and Chelsea.

“United finished third, they are back into the Champions League, and they fought until close to the end in three cup competitions. You can’t win them all, and United aren’t at the point where we can expect them to, so to be as competitive as we were has to be a big positive.

“Ole’s done a good job – there’s no denying he was very fortunate to be given such a job in football, but the club made that decision, they’ve also given him time and now they have done so they have to be patient for even longer in order to see the hopeful benefit of what he is putting together.

“United have the league and Champions League kicking off almost straight away when the season begins.

“Now we have seen the signs of settlement and consistency, and we know we have quality and other important ingredients – as much as we do need strengthening, the impetus is on this current group of players to step up as well.”

Original author: Chris Burton
  72 Hits

FIFA 22: When will the new game be announced?

Jurgen Klopp says the England international will not face Arsenal on August 29, with the midfielder facing a race against time to shake off a knock

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has picked up an untimely injury in Liverpool’s pre-season programme, with a knee problem meaning he will play no part in the Community Shield.

Jurgen Klopp has ruled the England international out of the meeting with his former club Arsenal at Wembley Stadium on August 29.

It could be that he remains stuck on the sidelines when Premier League action resumes on September 12 with defending champions Liverpool set to open their 2020-21 campaign with a home game against Leeds.

Oxlade-Chamberlain will be denied the opportunity to work on his fitness in a non-competitive environment prior to top-flight action returning. That is because he has suffered a knock during a training camp in Austria which will force him onto the treatment table.

Klopp has told the Reds’ official website: “Really unfortunate. An unfortunate situation as well; it was a challenge [in training].

“It looks like it is very similar to what Hendo had, which keeps him out for we don’t know for sure exactly how long, but for sure this pre-season he will not make a game, Arsenal for sure not and then we will see. The next game is probably two weeks later, but I don’t know.

“We have to wait but it is far away from being perfect, of course. It is really hard for him and hard for us, but it is not to change.”

Liverpool saw club captain Jordan Henderson miss the end of their title-winning campaign in 2019-20 after damaging his knee. He did not require surgery and was able to lift the Premier League trophy alongside his team-mates on a memorable evening at Anfield.

Oxalde-Chamberlain will be hoping that he can also avoid the need to go under the knife.

The 27-year-old midfielder has spent more time that he would have liked in recent times stuck on the sidelines. A serious ligament problem picked up against Roma in April 2018 forced him to miss 12 months of football.

There is no indication that his latest ailment is anywhere near as problematic, but Oxlade-Chamberlain would have been hoping to hit the ground running in 2020-21 as Liverpool and England ready themselves for a return to action.

Original author: Chris Burton
  151 Hits

Follow live: U.S. women take on Ireland in World Cup warm-up

The Clever Boys managed to finally bag three points when they downed Usuthu on Friday

Goals from Rowan Human and Deon Hotto secured a 2-1 victory for Bidvest Wits over AmaZulu in the Premier Soccer League at the FNB Stadium on Friday afternoon.

Before this clash, Wits had taken three draws against Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates and Golden Arrows, but finally ended their wait for three points with victory over Usuthu.

AmaZulu enjoyed a bright start thanks to winger Talent Chawapiwa who used his speed to create some space, but Bonginkosi Ntuli failed to connect with his delivery which sailed across the face of the goal.

Wits nearly paid for their sloppy defending when goalkeeper Ricardo Goss came off his line to clear the ball, although his clearance was collected by Siphesihle Maduna whose attempt was blocked by Lorenzo Gordinho in the 18th minute.

The hosts would gain an upper hand towards the end of the first half, when Human and Kgaogelo Sekgota caused all sorts of troubles but failed to beat Siyabonga Mbatha between the AmaZulu sticks.

Midfielder Siyethemba Sithebe had a wonderful opportunity to break the deadlock in injury time, but his shot lacked venom, allowing Goss to collect easily.

The visitors started the second half stronger, but fired blanks when it came to hitting the target.

However, the Students finally found the back of the net through Human who finished a rebound from close range to beat Mbatha in the roof of the net before the hour mark.

With 20 minutes to go, Namibia international Hotto came on for Sekgota and doubled their lead with a sublime finish after a great pass from Phathutshedzo Nange in the heart of the park.

Although they enjoyed a comfortable lead, Wits continued to probe for a third goal, and Terrence Dzvukamanja was denied by Mbatha when his left-footed shot was parried away with 12 minutes to go.

In the 88th minute, veteran striker Lehlohonolo Majoro showed his quality in the box when he controlled a cross from the right flank, before unleashing a half-volley to beat Goss.

Their 14th defeat of the season demotes the KwaZulu-Natal outfit to the 15th spot with 24 points from 26 games in their campaign whilst Wits move to the fourth on 44 points.

Original author: Phumzile Ngcatshe
  194 Hits

Mohun Bagan Day 2021: The award winners and everything you need to know

The former University of Pretoria mentor is hoping to hand Amakhosi their second successive defeat

Stellenbosch FC head coach Steve Barker believes his side are not under pressure ahead of their encounter with Kaizer Chiefs on Sunday.

Stellies have been in good form since the current Premier Soccer League season resumed, having recorded successive wins over Lamontville Golden Arrows and Cape Town City.

The two important victories have virtually guaranteed the PSL debutants another season in the South African top flight.

They are currently placed ninth on the league standings and only trailing seventh-placed Cape Town City on goal-difference with four matches left. 

Barker discussed his side's chances of finishing in the top eight and qualify for next season's MTN8 ahead of Sunday's meeting with a wounded Chiefs side who were defeated 3-1 by Bloemfontein Celtic on Wednesday. 

“It is a big battle, there are a number of teams in contention," Barker told The Citizen. "We have difficult encounters starting with Chiefs.

"It will not be easy, they have ambitions for the league and we have our ambitions. This [the win over City] has given us a good foundation to go out on Sunday."

The former AmaZulu FC head coach is hoping to mastermind a win over Chiefs in order to put pressure on the teams who are above them in the league standings.

"The pressure is not on us, we can just give a good account of ourselves and try and put pressure on the teams above us," he concluded. 

Chiefs will be desperate to get their PSL title pursuit back on track when they take on an in-form Stellenbosch side at the Mecca of South African football, Orlando Stadium. 

Amakhosi are six points above second-placed Mamelodi Sundowns, who have a game in hand and are set to face Maritzburg United on Friday evening.

The first round encounter between Chiefs and Stellenbosch FC ended in a 4-0 win in favour of Amakhosi in November 2019.

Goals from Samir Nurkovic (brace), Siyabonga Ngezana and Dumisani Zuma handed Chiefs an emphatic victory in an encounter which was played at Cape Town Stadium.

Original author: Austin Ditlhobolo
  212 Hits

Chelsea offered PSG legend Thiago Silva with future of Blues defenders in doubt

The club have big decisions to make at the back in the near future as they enter training sessions for the 2020-21 season.

Chelsea have been offered PSG centre-back Thiago Silva on a free transfer as they mull over replacements in the heart of their defence.

Fiorentina and AC Milan are reported to be among several other clubs also offered the defender, who turns 36 next month.

Silva is set to decide on his future after the Champions League final on Sunday.

The Blues have been cautious over switches to their central defensive positions as they prioritise signing both Bayer Leverkusen's Kai Havertz and Leicester City's Ben Chilwell in the early phase of their transfer window.

There is optimism that the Blues will complete both deals in the coming weeks despite the huge expense on both transfers. Chelsea had meetings regarding the 21-year-old Germany international on Wednesday to work out how to pay closer to Leverkusen's valuation, which is €20 million (£18m/$24m) more than Chelsea's latest offer.

Despite playing almost all of last season in midfield, West Ham's Declan Rice is the clear standout target to improve Lampard's defence, with interest also having been shown in Brighton pair Ben White and Lewis Dunk.

Dunk, however, signed a new deal with Brighton on Friday.

Leeds United are more aggressively pursuing White, having made a £25m ($33m) bid this week for their loanee of last season.

Still, Neither Frank Lampard nor the club have told any of their players that they are surplus to requirements at this stage, despite poor defensive performances leading to 54 goals being conceded in last season's Premier League — the most of any of the top 10 sides.

It is the worst such total since Roman Abramovich bought the club. All four of Chelsea's centre-backs remain in limbo over their futures, with the club stalling on any decision over a loan move from Rennes for Fikayo Tomori.

Meanwhile, Andreas Christensen and Antonio Rudiger's futures are in doubt with less than two years left on their current deals and no approaches yet from the west Londoners over an extension.

Reports in France have suggested Kurt Zouma's representatives have sounded out PSG, while Everton are still thought to be admirers of their former loan star.

It is understood that several Blues stars will seek clarity on their future in pre-season with Ethan Ampadu and several other loan stars set to join up with the squad.

Chelsea begin pre-season training on Saturday having had a testing day at Cobham Training Centre following a brief holiday in between the two seasons.

Meanwhile, the Blues are also increasingly considering cutting their losses and reducing their asking price for Kepa Arrizabalaga in order to attract interest from Spanish clubs.

Lampard is aware that his side's defensive issues are partly down to Kepa's loss of form, with sources describing a loss of confidence within the squad in their side's No. 1.

The £71 million ($93m) goalkeeper was seen being criticised by his defenders at Anfield for not coming for a late cross that allowed Virgil van Dijk a clear chance in the 5-3 defeat in July.

The incident reflects the general concern in the squad over their goalkeeper's form with back-up option, Willy Caballero, turning 39 next month.

Like Silva, Ajax's Andre Onana has been offered to Chelsea as a solution, while Atletico Madrid would require Jan Oblak's €120m (£108m/$141m) release clause to be activated to lose their superstar goalkeeper, who is admired by the Blues.

Original author: Nizaar Kinsella
  315 Hits

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