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'Juventus are physically and mentally tired' - Sarri believes fatigue is wearing on Serie A sides

The head coach discussed the fixture pile up following Wednesday's shock loss to Udinese

Maurizio Sarri believes Juventus are "physically and mentally tired" after falling to a surprise loss to Udinese on Thursday.

Juventus had a chance to clinch the Scudetto on Thursday, with Sarri's side knowing that a win would see them officially claim their ninth consecutive domestic triumph.

After Matthijs de Ligt put Juve on track to seal the Serie A title just before halftime, relegation-threatened Udinese fought back with two goals in the second half to seal the win.

Ilija Nestorovski equalised just seven minutes into the second half before Seko Fofana scored a dramatic 92nd-minute winner, leaving Juve six points clear with three games remaining.

Atalanta currently maintain that second-place spot on 74 points with Inter and Lazio lurking just behind on 73 and 72 points, respectively.

Despite having the inside track on the Serie A title, Sarri  lamented his side's fatigue amid a busy run of fixtures, after their sixth game already this month.

"In this period, we are physically and mentally tired, and it is a problem common to all," the Juventus head coach said following the defeat.

"For this reason, being aggressive is something more tiring and, therefore, now what matters most is order, because the inertia of a game changes very easily.

"It is difficult to keep it throughout the match and sometimes, like today, we lose it."

Juve will instead get a chance to secure a ninth straight Serie A title when they host Sampdoria on Sunday with just three games remaining in the Italian season.

Sarri said his focus was entirely on that clash, not next month's Champions League meeting with Lyon.

"At the moment I am not thinking about the Champions League, in my mind there is only Sampdoria and Sunday's match," he said.

"We have to be on the ball and then we'll think about the cup."

After taking on Sampdoria, Sarri and Juventus will visit Cagliari three days later before closing the season with a match against Roma at home.

Once they're through those matches, Juve will play host to Lyon, who will visit Italy nursing a 1-0 lead from the first leg of their Champions League round of 16 encounter.

Original author: Dejan Kalinic
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Ayub Timbe: Vissel Kobe part ways with Kenya winger after five months

Second-half goals from Ilija Nestorovski and Seko Fofana brought Udinese from behind to defeat Serie A leaders Juventus.

Juventus missed a chance to clinch their ninth successive Serie A title as they succumbed to a shock 2-1 loss to Udinese on Thursday.

Inter's goalless draw with Fiorentina on Wednesday opened the door for Juve to secure the Scudetto with a win at the Dacia Arena but they were unable to oblige.

Matthijs de Ligt put the Bianconeri on the path to glory towards the end of a tepid first half before Ilija Nestorovski's excellent diving header restored parity in the 52nd minute.

Juve pushed for a winner but Seko Fofana's brilliant stoppage-time finish at the end of a lung-busting run ensured the champagne was kept on ice for Maurizio Sarri's men.

Udinese went close to getting the opener in the eighth minute but the post stopped Danilo heading Ken Sema's cross into his own net.

Juan Musso stopped Bram Nuytinck scoring a bizarre own goal with a misjudged back pass and from the resulting corner the Udinese goalkeeper produced a good save to keep out Paulo Dybala's volley.

Rodrigo de Paul had a penalty appeal ignored and De Ligt put Juve in front when he controlled William Troost-Ekong's headed clearance and arrowed it into the bottom-left corner in the 42nd minute.

Udinese improved in the second half and restored parity seven minutes after the restart, Sema picking out an unmarked Nestorovski for a fine finish at the back post.

A curling effort from Dybala – Juve's first shot on target in the second half – was held well by Musso in the 62nd minute, while the hosts remained game in their bid to snatch the three points that would boost their survival hopes.

They got them when Fofana outmuscled De Ligt and slotted home in the 92nd minute, with Juve left to reflect on a surprise defeat.


What does it mean? Title race still alive… just

A Juve victory would have secured the title due to their superior head-to-head record against Atalanta, but their advantage over Gian Piero Gasperini's side with three games left remains six points.

Udinese's triumph means Atalanta, Inter and Lazio all still have a shot at overthrowing the Old Lady, who have won just one of their past five matches as they stagger towards the finish line.

At the other end of the table, Udinese shot up to 15th and are seven points clear of the relegation zone.

Three points from Fofana

His late winner could prove pivotal in keeping Udinese in the top flight, but Fofana provided far more than that against Juve. He had a 94 per cent passing accuracy and won 83 per cent of his duels in an impressive, dynamic midfield showing.

Slack Alex Sandro

It cannot be doubted that Nestorovski's header was of the highest quality, but Alex Sandro's failure to track his run gave him all the time and space he needed to pick out his spot, igniting Udinese's comeback.

Key Opta Facts:

- Juventus have dropped 18 points from winning positions, their worst record in the last nine campaigns.

- The Bianconeri have lost five away games in Serie A this season, their worst record since 2009-10 (nine lossed at the end of the campaign).

- De Ligt is the youngest defender with at least four goals scored in the top-five European Leagues this season.

- Juve were celebrating 3,000 days as Italian champions (from 6 May 2012).

What's next?

Juve will look to wrap things up when they entertain Sampdoria on Sunday, while Udinese will be out to secure their survival at Cagliari.

Original author: Tom Webber
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Milan keep on winning without Ibrahimovic

The league is set to announce whether the season will resume in August 2020 as proposed by Safa

The National Soccer League (NSL) Board of Governors (BoG) meeting has reportedly been postponed until Monday.

The NSL which is the umbrella body consisting of the PSL and the National First Division (NFD) was expected to hold a meeting on Friday to map the way forward regarding the resumption of football.

The 2019/20 season has been suspended since mid-March 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic and the NSL has been keen to resume the campaign.

Daily Sun has reported the NSL members are said to have received the following message:

"Postponement of extraordinary Board of Governors Meeting from 24 to 27 July 2020."

"Dear Members, Kindly take note that the meeting of the Board of Governors has been postponed from Friday to take place on Monday."

"We apologize for any inconvenience caused."

The PSL is expected to make an announcement on whether the season will resume in August 2020 as proposed by the South African Football Association (Safa).

The league was looking to resume the suspended campaign on 18 July 2020, but Safa insisted football can only resume next month because match officials were not ready.

All 16 top-flight league clubs and 16 NFD teams are expected to camp in a Biologically Safe Environment (BSE) in Gauteng in order to complete the suspended season.

It remains to be seen whether the NSL will agree to resume the season next month and complete the season before planning for the 2020/21 campaign.

Original author: Austin Ditlhobolo
  124 Hits

Kariakoo Derby: Pawasa and Morris compare Simba SC and Yanga SC firepower

The latest teaser trailer for the much-anticipated FIFA 21 involves the likes of cover star Kylian Mbappe alongside Trent Alexander-Arnold

EA Sports has given fans another exclusive look of FIFA 21 in a brand-new reveal trailer that features stars such as Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Joao Felix.

The latest iteration of the video game promises smoother than ever graphics and gameplay, along with an overhaul of career mode and an enhanced user experience to provide the most realistic mode yet.

FUT Co-op - which Felix can be seeing playing in the game - is one of the biggest new features to be added to the game, where players can team up with friends through online gameplay and compete to earn rewards.

Volta Teamplay has also been introduced to allow a more realistic football experience with Volta Squads, with players able to play in the backstreets of urban Paris like Mbappe.

Player celebrations have also been enhanced, with Halaand's famous meditation celebration looking more realistic than ever.

Check out the trailer in the video above and read more about the new game in our links below.

Original author: Goal
  208 Hits

LIVE: West Brom vs Chelsea

The Cameroon centre-forward is hoping to add to his collection of titles with the Les Parisiens
Original author: Kunle Fayiga
  249 Hits

Eden Hazard apologises to Real Madrid fans for joking with Chelsea players

The Brazilian is fully fit and on good form as the French champions target two more domestic trophies and the Champions League

Neymar is in good shape and ready to help Paris Saint-Germain fight for three more trophies this season, according to manager Thomas Tuchel.

PSG get their campaign back underway on Friday with the Coupe de France final against Saint-Etienne, after the Ligue 1 season was cut short.

The Coupe de la Ligue final against Lyon follows a week later, before attention switches to a Champions League quarter-final clash with free-scoring Atalanta on August 12.

By way of preparation, PSG have played a series of friendly matches in recent days, scoring 20 goals and conceding zero in three successful games.

They beat Le Havre 9-0 and Waasland-Beveren 7-0, before rounding things off with a 4-0 win over Celtic on Tuesday.

Neymar has led the charge in attack, and Tuchel is glad to have him on top form.

“I'm not surprised. He came back in a good state of mind, in good shape,” Tuchel told a press conference.

“He adapts super quickly to all training sessions, he got up to speed very quickly.

“It's important for him to play as much as possible. He was given as many minutes of playing time as possible.

“He will be on the field tomorrow. He's in good shape, decisive, and that's the best thing for us.”

After the 7-0 thrashing of Belgian side Waasland-Beveren, Neymar admitted to being worried about potentially being injured after some surprisingly physical play for a friendly game.

"Yes, we were a little scared,” he told BeIN Sports. “We are here for a friendly match so those types of things should not have been happening.

"We are here to prepare ourselves, but also to be careful. But us too, we gave them a little bit back, so there are no problems."

Nevertheless, he didn’t seem to be lacking in confidence when he took on Celtic four days later.

After the game, Hoops boss Neil Lennon accused the Brazilian of ‘trying to wind people up’, saying he knows just how infuriating his show-boating antics can be.

Midfielder Callum McGregor also spoke of Neymar 'taking the mickey' in previous clashes, though he admitted the Brazilian has the quality to punish any lapses of concentration that come as a result.

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FKF Premier League to launch golden trophy for 2020-21 season

The African football body has put up an ambitious four-year plan that will take the women's game to the next level

The Confederation of African Football (Caf) has launched its first-ever strategy for women’s football which charts the course of realising the full potential of the women's game until 2023.

The four-year women's football strategy blueprint was developed by top stakeholders at a workshop in Egypt in November and subsequently approved by the Caf Executive Committee.

The 28-page released plan, with the slogan #ItsTimeItsNow, is built on the development, competition, professionalisation and leadership, marketing and promotion, and social impact of football.​ 

Speaking about the launch of Caf’s continental strategy for women’s football, president Ahmad Ahmad told the Caf website: “Today is a historic day for women’s football in Africa. 

"The launch of the Caf Women’s Football Strategy is in line with our commitment to give hope to youth across the continent and to develop women’s football at all levels. It sets out a clear roadmap for specific actions that will revolutionize women’s football. 

"My gratitude goes out to the key stakeholders and experts who took part in putting together this strategic document, which is the beginning of many things to come.” 

On her part, Isha Johansen, who is the chairperson of the Caf Organising Committee for Women’s Football, and also doubles as Sierra Leone Football Association boss, said: “The strategy is a followup on the Caf Women’s Football Symposium in 2018. 

"We have now established strategies and drawn up a road map which we believe will enhance the development of women’s football on the continent in all areas and levels from Leadership, Governance, Technical, Education, Strategic Partnerships and Grassroots.”

Adding her voice, Desiree Ellis, who is the South Africa women's head coach and back-to-back Caf Women's Coach of the Year said: “I am very excited with the Caf Women's Football Strategy.

"This will definitely improve women's football on the continent and create more playing opportunities for players. The game is evolving and as a continent, we need to keep up."

For a start, the African football body began to implement its four-year plan with the introduction of the new Women’s Champions League, which is scheduled to kick off in 2021.

Original author: Samuel Ahmadu
  167 Hits

Super Eagles test negative for coronavirus ahead of Sierra Leone showdown

The teenager's representative opens up on why they decided to join the Dutch giants

Mohammed Kudus' agent Jennifer Mendelewitsch has shed light on their decision to settle on Dutch side Ajax Amsterdam as the 19-year-old's next destination.

The attacking midfielder, last week, signed a five-year deal with the Eredivisie outfit after two years with Danish fold Nordsjaelland.

He was reportedly linked to Liverpool, Borussia Dortmund and AC Milan before choosing Erik ten Hag's team.

“Ajax is known worldwide for the way they develop young players and to have a very attractive style of playing,” Mendelewitsch told TV3.

“When you are 19, you don’t choose your club as a grown up player like someone who is at 28 or 29. You look for different things and for a young player, the main thing is to have some game time and be in a project when you know that they know how to deal with young boys to give them time and increase their level in their development.

“They [Ajax] are very excited to have this young boy in the team. Of course he is not coming as if everything is going to be easy for him but we had a very long conversation with the head coach and he explained what is expected from Kudus and what also Kudus expects from Ajax.”

Kudus netted 11 goals in 25 league outings for Nordsjaelland this season.

He joined the Wild Tigers from Ghanaian side Right to Dream Academy.

"Everyone in the club [Nordsjaelland] must know that you have left a big imprint on my heart that I will always have with me," the attacker told his former club's official website after completing his transfer.

"It has been a long journey for me with both tailwinds and bumps on the road. I am grateful for it because it has brought me development, confidence and opportunities.

"Now a new place awaits me, and Ajax Amsterdam is a very special club with a very special culture, which I look forward to embracing. I look forward to continuing my development at Ajax and continuing the pursuit of my dream.

"I owe it to all my coaches and teammates in FC Nordsjælland and at Right to Dream."

Kudus is expected to aid Ajax's quest for the Dutch Eredivisie and Champions League titles next season. 

Original author: Prince Narkortu Teye
  148 Hits

The Chelsea Lineup That Should Start Against Tottenham

The midfielder was the victim of a burglary on Wednesday, with a number of jewellery items and a car taken from the Brazilian's home

Liverpool star Fabinho's home was burgled on Wednesday night as the Brazilian and his team-mates celebrated the Reds' first-ever Premier League title.

The midfielder's home was targeted while he and his family were away, with the break-in reported to have occurred between 3pm BST on Wednesday afternoon and 4am BST on Thursday morning.

That period would coincide with the time Fabinho spent at Anfield, as Liverpool beat Chelsea 5-3 before beginning their Premier League trophy celebration.

Fabinho started and played all 90 minutes for the Reds on Wednesday, with players' families also permitted to be in attendance for the celebrations after the match.

Police have since confirmed that a number of jewellery items and a grey Audi RS6 were stolen in a burglary in Formby.

The Audi has since been recovered as the car was located in Wigan shortly after the burglary was discovered.

"Detectives in Sefton are appealing for information following a burglary in Formby," a police spokesman told the Liverpool Echo.

"Police were called to an address in the early hours of this morning (Thursday, 23 July), when the occupants entered their house to find it had been burgled.

"No-one was in the property at the time of the incident but it was thought the burglary happened sometime between 3pm on Wednesday, 22 July and 4am on Thursday, 23 July.

"A number of jewellery items were stolen, alongside a grey Audi RS6, which has since been recovered in the Wigan area.

"The house and car have been forensically examined by Crime Scene Investigators and CCTV enquiries in the area are on-going.

"Detectives would urge anyone who has any information about this incident, especially anyone who was in the area and may have dash-cam footage which shows a grey Audi RS6 to get in contact. DM @MerPolCC or call 101 quoting reference 188 of 23 July. You can also contact @CrimestoppersUK anonymously on 0800 555 111."

Fabinho is the latest Liverpool star to be the victim of a burglary, with Sadio Mane seeing his home targeted during a clash with Bayern Munich last season

Dejan Lovren, Roberto Firmino, Pepe Reina, Daniel Agger and Jerzy Dudek have also been targeted by burglars in recent years.

Liverpool have one final match remaining in their Premier League season, with the Reds set to visit Newcastle on Sunday to finish off their title-winning campaign. 

  158 Hits

Southgate, TAA delighted with midfield switch

The 31-year-old looks set to spend another two years out of favour at the Santiago Bernabeu with Zinedine Zidane preferring other options out wide

Gareth Bale needs to sit down with Real Madrid to resolve the ongoing uncertainty around his future at the club, according to John Toshack.

The former Real Madrid and Wales manager also believes Bale would benefit from being more open in public about his issues at the club.

The 31-year-old has been out of favour under Zinedine Zidane this season, making just 20 appearances in all competitions and looking noticeably awkward during Madrid's La Liga title celebrations.

Bale almost left for China at the start of the season but now looks destined to remain on the periphery at the Santiago Bernabeu unless another club matches his €15 million (£13.7m/$17.2m) per year wages.

That stagnation has left a feeling that Bale is letting his talent go to waste as he nears the end of his peak years - and Toshack wants to see the situation resolved.

"Very often these things happen," Toshack told BBC Radio Wales.

"Things don't turn out and the coach has got other ideas and you've got to sit down and work it out.

"I think there's got to be some kind of dialogue there and they've got to sit down."

Bale’s agent, Jonathan Barnett, has repeatedly dismissed reports that the winger could leave Madrid, recently saying he is “going nowhere” this summer and will see out the remaining two years on his contract.

However, Toshack thinks fans would appreciate hearing more directly from Bale himself.

"I don't think too many people here have been pleased with the comments that have come out of the people that represent him,” Toshack said.

"I would like to see Gareth say a little bit more himself and I think a lot of people here [in Spain] would as well.

"But the ins and outs of the whole thing, I'm not sure.

"But when an agent comes out and said he's got another two years of his contract, and he's going to see his contract out then it's certainly not the road that I would take."

With the title wrapped up, Bale was left out of the travelling squad which drew 2-2 with Leganes on the final day of the Spanish league season.

It remains to be seen whether he will be part of Zidane’s plans for the Champions League last-16 second-leg game with Manchester City on August 7.

  135 Hits

Juventus lost because of 'win at all costs' approach, says Sarri as Serie A title celebrations put on hold

The Italian coach was just three points away from the first league title of his career, but his side will have to wait for another opportunity

Juventus paid the price for wanting "to win at all costs" in their surprise 2-1 defeat to Udinese on Thursday, says Maurizio Sarri.

A victory at the Dacia Arena would have seen Juve clinch their ninth successive Scudetto and Matthijs de Ligt's superb 20-yard effort put them en route to doing exactly that.

Ilija Nestorovski restored parity in the 52nd minute and the Bianconeri laboured in their push for a winner.

They were caught on the break in the second minute of added time and Seko Fofana slotted home to give Udinese an unlikely victory.

Juve's advantage at the top will be cut to three points if Atalanta beat Milan on Friday, but the leaders can still seal the title by defeating Sampdoria on Sunday.

"This is what has been happening lately, we've lost our organisation and shape," Sarri told Sky Sport Italia.

"After a good first half we wanted to win it at all costs and we were messy, making the game more dangerous. We lost it in the 92nd minute because we wanted to win at all costs.

"It is difficult [to find balance], we are all more tired and teams struggle to be aggressive. Organisation is now more important than aggression.

"In the first half we did well. After the equaliser we had a bad reaction. We had to play with more serenity.

"It's difficult to keep up mentally and physically for 90 minutes. We must learn from these lessons and try to fix it."

Juve have dropped 18 points from winning positions this term and conceded 38 goals in Serie A, the most since they shipped 47 when finishing seventh in 2010-11.

Asked about their defensive record, Sarri said: "We have also had 12 penalties against – it's not a number that great teams usually suffer.

"But it has increased for everyone, it's reached an all-time record, even if we have increased more in percentage terms.

"We have missed Giorgio [Chiellini] all season. In the long run you feel the absence of his personality, which would have been more than useful.

"The season has gone like this because of injuries, but we have to keep going."

Original author: Tom Webber
  270 Hits

'I have a crush on Arsenal' - Saliba ready for Gunners move despite disappointment at missing Coupe de France final

The defender will not be able to take part in Saint-Etienne's clash with Paris Saint-German, much to his frustration

William Saliba says that he has "a crush" on Arsenal as the defender now looks ahead to officially joining up with the Gunners after completing his loan spell with Saint-Etienne.

Saliba signed with Arsenal in July 2019 as the Gunners completed a £25 million ($32m) deal to acquire the French teenager from Saint-Etienne

As part of that deal, the defender would be loaned back to the Ligue 1 side for the 2019-20 campaign, as he went on to make 12 appearances in Ligue 1 this season.

Now, with the Ligue 1 season over, Saliba can look ahead towards his dream move to London for the 2020-21 campaign.

Reflecting on his loan spell, Saliba says that he is glad that he was able to spend one more season with Saint-Etienne, allowing him to mentally and physically prepare for what will be a massive leap to a club like Arsenal after overcoming injury issues with the French side.

"I fell for Arsenal from the start," he told L'Equipe. "A number of French players have been there.

"Arsenal has not been at the top of its game for the last three, four years. But, like Saint-Etienne, its badge, its history and its fans made me want it.

"I have a crush on Arsenal. What it gives off speaks to me. I had no hesitation. I am discovering another world."

He added: "After a good first season with 19 matches (with Saint-Etienne), I need to confirm my potential. I was not yet ready to go to Arsenal. But I was unlucky, because I endured a year of injuries.

"It was truly difficult, when I was not able to play in very important matches, notably in the Europa League. At least, it forged me mentally and showed what I could face in the future."

Manager Claude Puel recently revealed that Saliba would miss the upcoming Coupe de France final, as the defender has played his last game for the club.

However, Saliba will be in attendance on Friday as Saint-Etienne takes on Paris Saint-Germain in the finale, giving him one last bit of closure despite his unhappiness at not being able to play one last time.

"I couldn’t miss this. As I am not able to play, I want to at least feel this final as much as possible, by supporting my team in the stadium," he said. 

"In front of the TV, it would not be the same. It was important for me to be there, hoping to see Les Verts win. It will also allow me to say goodbye to my team-mates properly. Because I left like I was a robber.

"It would have been my first final, my second year as a professional. Of course, I hope to play other finals, but you are never sure of anything.

"On top of that, it would have been my last match with the club that formed me. I hoped, hoped. Truly. Even when it became impossible.

"The two clubs did everything for me to play. But they did not reach an agreement. I was very disappointed."

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Premier League 2020-21 rules changes: Five substitutes & what else is new?

The current rule allowing for teams to make five changes instead of the usual three has the potential to be extended into next season

The Premier League introduced the increased the maximum number of substitutes to make in the aftermath of the Covid-19 outbreak, but what other rules could be implemented for the 2020-21 season?

Goal takes a look.

Five substitutes

The rule change, implemented for the restart of the Premier League and the remainder of the 2019-20 season, allows for teams to make five substitional changes - an increase from the usual three.

Additionally, the maximum number of substitutes permitted to sit on the bench was also increased from seven to nine.

The rule changes were made with player welfare in mind, and to ease footballers back into the physical demands of the game following three months without regular competitive action.

Though the rule was initially introduced only for competitions ending in 2020, Premier League clubs are set to meet at the end of July to discuss if the rule will become permanent for the 2020-21 season.

The directors of the International Football Association Board (IFAB) extended the amendment to the laws of the game to apply to league competitions that end on or before July 31, 2021.

Each competition, however, will be able to decide individually if they wish to implement the rule permanently.

A statement from IFAB read: "Following the decision taken on 8 May 2020 to give competitions scheduled to be completed in 2020 the option of allowing teams to use up to five substitutes, the IFAB Board of Directors had agreed to review whether to extend this option further.

"On the basis of this in-depth review based on stakeholder feedback and analysis of the impact of COVID-19 on competition calendars, the IFAB Board of Directors has approved to extend the option to competitions scheduled to be completed by 31 July 2021 and international competitions scheduled in July/August 2021.

"The main reason for the temporary amendment to Law 3 - The Players was the impact on player welfare of competitions being played in a condensed period and in different weather conditions.

"The recent review has shown that the reasons for the temporary amendment remain valid and the impact on player welfare is likely to continue into 2021."

The initial statement from IFAB drew criticism from various football figures, with the likes of Jamie Carragher and Gary Neville suggesting that the allowance of more substitutes would unfairly benefit affluent clubs.

Goal will update this page accordingly once new announcements have been made regarding new rules and regulation changes for next season.
Original author: Goal
  279 Hits

FIFA 21: How to play the new game for free before launch

While defensive issues remain a bugbear, players like the Morocco star could let Frank Lampard go toe-to-toe with the champions next season

Minutes before Liverpool scored their fifth goal through Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in the final 10 minutes against Chelsea on Wednesday, cameras caught Frank Lampard smiling at the thrilling nature of the contest at Anfield.

On the night of the Reds’ coronation, the encounter on Merseyside was undoubtedly a fitting spectacle, ending 5-3 to Jurgen Klopp’s men. On the face of it, any observer would say the newly crowned champions deserved the three points, and maybe they did but the Chelsea perspective to events at Anfield may be somewhat conflicting.

Lampard’s side found themselves 3-0 down and 4-1 down at different points vs the world champions in a game where they could probably feel hard done by with the final result, given the balance of play.

Indeed, especially in the opening half, where Chelsea more or less matched the home side, very little separated the pair early on, so the visitors were unfortunate to somehow find themselves three goals down after 43 minutes.

It may be disingenuous to say individual brilliance was the difference between the teams, but attacking excellence certainly did play its part for the hosts. Their first was a stunning Naby Keita strike, who continued his encouraging performances post-lockdown to score his first Premier League goal since December, while the second was a brilliant free-kick from Trent Alexander-Arnold.

The full-back then picked out Roberto Firmino with a pin-point cross for the 2019 Champions League winners’ fourth.

Contrast this with Lampard’s men, who were dominant in the opening exchanges and got into promising positions only to be let down by poor finishing, their decision-making or failure to execute the final ball.

This was evident as Mason Mount missed a presentable opportunity in the eighth minute, or when Willian failed to control a lobbed Marcos Alonso through-ball which would have put him in on goal. Later in the half, the former then failed to pick out Olivier Giroud with a cross from the left flank thus failing to set up a clear-cut chance on a plate for his frontman like TAA did for Firmino in the second-half.

According to Understat, the Expected Goals stat at the end of the game read 1.45 to 2.38, yet, somehow, Liverpool scored five times due to their ruthless efficiency along with defensive howlers from the visitors.

Indeed, this was the theme in all but one of the four encounters between both sides this season. Klopp’s team won three of the fixtures but never truly outplayed the West London side who matched them over the meetings, only to be done by the superior technical quality of the six-time European champions as well as their defensive frailties.

Individual brilliance largely settled nearly all the battles, and while Lampard may be yet to address the structural issues in his side’s defensive third, the signings of Hakim Ziyech and Timo Werner means they potentially have attackers who can produce moments of ingenuity.

The signing of the playmaker from Ajax has seemingly opened up new possibilities for a Chelsea side who have intermittently lacked the cutting edge in the final third this season.

Ziyech not only has an eye to spot the final ball but his execution is mostly on the money as well, which bodes well for the 2019 Europa League winners.

Despite primarily being a creator, the Morocco star scores blinders from range or acute angles, evidenced by this season’s brilliant strikes in the Champions League against Valencia and a free-kick against the club he’s now joined which went in off Kepa Arrizabalaga in a rip-roaring 4-4 draw.

The midfield playmaker’s tendency for turning up in big moments was also noteworthy in last year’s UCL run against Real Madrid as well as Juventus, before suffering elimination at the hands of Tottenham Hotspur.

He contributed three goals and two assists in those ties, with two strikes coming in the hugely impressive success over Los Blancos, an assist against the Old Lady and a goal and assist in the semi-final defeat by Spurs.

It’s been a while since the Stamford Bridge outfit signed a classy creator capable of unpicking the opposition while hitting the back of the net from time to time.

An argument can be made that Juan Mata’s signing from Valencia in 2011 was the last time the three-time Premier League champions brought in someone capable of producing moments of inventiveness in the final third consistently.

The arrival of the talented Christian Pulisic, who was outstanding in his half-hour appearance on Wednesday, has been promising for Lampard’s men this year and the prospect of striking up a partnership with the club’s new buys is certainly mouthwatering.

While issues at the back persist, the presence of a midfield maverick like Ziyech, capable of pulling a rabbit out of the hat, and established goalscorer like Werner suggests the Blues could at least be more confident if they plan to stay adventurous against the champions when they go head to head next season.

Whether those two signings alone will bring the Blues closer to the undisputed champions in the table or even see them usurp Klopp’s charges, though, remains up for debate.

Original author: Seye Omidiora
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Coronavirus: PSL chairman Khoza gets tough with clubs ahead of football return

Supporters had been asked to celebrate the victory safely at home but around 3,000 gathered at the stadium as the trophy was lifted

Liverpool have condemned fans who ignored calls from the club to celebrate their Premier League title win at home.

According to Merseyside Police, around 3,000 fans gathered around Anfield as Jurgen Klopp’s side finally got their hands on the Premier League trophy following their 5-3 win over Chelsea.

Nine people were arrested, though a police statement added that there wasn’t a repeat of the disorder and damage which followed the club’s title win last month.

Both the football club and local authorities had made clear they did not want to see large groups of fans gathering to celebrate, with the United Kingdom’s coronavirus death toll still rising towards the 50,000 mark.

A statement from Liverpool on Thursday read: “Liverpool Football Club would like to thank those supporters who stayed at home to celebrate the team lifting the trophy last night, protecting their loved ones and our city from the ever-present threat of this pandemic.

“We are, however, disappointed with the scenes outside Anfield last night and that more supporters did not heed the celebrate at home advice.

“The club and our city partners Merseyside Police, Liverpool City Council and Spirit of Shankly, have worked in-step for the past eight weeks to consistently encourage fans to support the team from home and we would like to thank them for their continued support and collaboration in the lead-up and throughout football returning behind closed doors.

“Thanks should also go to those from CleanEvent and Liverpool Streetscene Services, who did incredible work this morning cleaning up Anfield and surrounding areas.

“As we have said before, when it is safe to do so we will celebrate, until then protecting our city is the priority.”

Speaking after Thursday’s game, Klopp affirmed he has every intention of marking the title win properly once it is less dangerous to public health.

“We should all celebrate,” Klopp told Sky Sports. "Drink what you want but you have to prepare for a party when this bullsh*t virus is gone. Then we will have a party all together. Make sure you are ready then."

Liverpool lifted the Premier League trophy following their final home game of the season, having won the English top flight for the first time in 30 years.

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Lionel Messi keeping promise on decision about Barcelona future

Wekundu wa Msimbazi, who have already been declared the 2019/20 winners, did not manage to break the home side’s backline in Tanga

Mainland Premier League champions Simba SC failed to pick up a win during their season’s penultimate tie against Coastal Union.

Wekundu wa Msimbazi were made to register a 0-0 draw at Mkwakwani Stadium in Tanga by Coastal Union even though coach Sven Vandenbroeck fielded a strong starting XI.

A second draw was registered between Alliance FC and Ndanda SC after the two sides fought to a 2-2 draw.

Israel Patrick opened the score for Alliance in the ninth minute but Ndanda cancelled the lead in the 16th minute from Abdul Hamis’ strike.

Omary Mponda gave Ndanda the lead, but that did not last, in the 51st minute before the hosts cancelled it by a Martin Kigi goal at the hour mark.

Lipuli FC recorded a first win in one of four matches that were held on Thursday evening. Daruesh Saliboko scored a 79th-minute penalty to condemn Ruvu Shooting to a 1-0 loss.

Another draw, this time a 1-1 scoreline, was recorded from the match that pitted Polisi Tanzania against JKT Tanzania.

Mathew Anthony scored for Polisi Tanzania in the 32nd minute before the visitors responded with a 60th-minute goal courtesy of Edward Songo’s strike.

Azam FC will be at home against Mbeya City in a late kick-off.

Meanwhile, football stakeholders in Tanzania have been called on to give their suggestions concerning the upcoming season’s regulations.

“Tanzania Premier League Board (TPLB) has kick-started the process of collecting views from stakeholders on the improvement or the amendments of the leagues’ regulations for the 2020/21 season,” a statement obtained by Goal read.

“On July 11, the board had welcomed top officials of all the Premier League and the Division Two clubs and gave them an update of how the board was planning to carry out the whole exercise.

“The board would like to request the stakeholders, journalists, soccer organisations from regional and district levels and all the concerned parties to take part in the exercise that we believe is very important in as far as soccer development in the country is concerned.

“Given the change in the calendar of the season, TPLB would like to request that all the opinions on the improvement of league regulations for the 2020/21 season, be submitted before July 31.”

Original author: Kiplagat Sang
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Jose Mourinho's worst ever signings - ranked

The former Scotland international believes his old side will make the English top flight a better division, and it is one in which they can thrive

Leeds United can emulate the likes of Chelsea in joining the Premier League’s top clubs now they have returned from the Championship, according to Gordon Strachan.

After a 16-year absence, Leeds are back in the big time after winning the second-tier title under Marcelo Bielsa.

Strachan, who played for Leeds in the early years of the Premier League, believes the division will be better for having his former club in it.

“When Leeds come into this Premier League, I think football fans around the world will go, ‘Leeds are back’,” Strachan told the Gary Newbon Sports Show. “Leeds vs Chelsea, Leeds vs Manchester United, Leeds vs Liverpool, these are going to be games that will get watched around the world. When Leeds come up, there's a ring to it.”

As a former giant of English football, Strachan thinks Leeds have the potential to rekindle their past glories.

They last won the title in 1992, lifting the old First Division in the final season before the formation of the Premier League. With their solitary FA Cup and League Cup titles coming in 1972 and 1968 respectively, the idea of Leeds as a force in English football is an alien one to younger fans - but under Bielsa, there is optimism coursing through the club.

“Some clubs say, ‘We are a big club’,” Strachan continued. “Yeah, you might have been 80 years ago and you won a couple [of trophies] way back, but that doesn't make you a big club.

“What makes you a big club is your support, your history, what you can possibly do again in the future.

“Now, Leeds are in that bracket. They're up there, they can be a Chelsea, but what they've got to do is add to the Premier League and make it grow even bigger.”

As a mark of their ambition, Leeds owner Andrea Radrizzani recently admitted he is interested in signing free agent Edinson Cavani following his exit from Paris Saint-Germain.

That comes after they had tried to sign Zlatan Ibrahimovic in January, with the Swede eventually returning to Milan instead.

Leeds were relegated from the Premier League in 2004, and dropped to the third tier of English football before finally returning to the top flight for 2020-21.

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Bayern set for Club World Cup

The Borussia Dortmund winger continues to be linked with a move to Old Trafford as the Red Devils aim to strengthen their squad for the 2020-21 season

Jesse Lingard believes Jadon Sancho would be a "great addition" to Manchester United's squad, but does not know if his England team-mate will make the move to Old Trafford this summer.

Borussia Dortmund winger Sancho is on Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s transfer wish list, with the Norwegian keen to strengthen his side as they bid to mount a Premier League title charge next season.

With transfer budgets and asking prices up in their air due to Covid-19, it is not yet known where or if the 20-year-old will move when the window open, but he would be welcomed at Old Trafford by Lingard should he make the transfer.

“Jadon is a brilliant player. It's obviously up to him,” Lingard told reporters. “I’ve seen him with England, I’ve seen his qualities and I feel like he’d be a great addition to any team.”

If Sancho does move to Old Trafford, it remains to be seen whether or not he will be linking up with Lingard.

There are doubts over the versatile midfielder's long-term future with the Red Devils with him having fallen down the pecking order under Solskjaer.

The 27-year-old has started just once since the resumption of football in June, and has failed to make the matchday squad on a number of occasions.

“I don't want to look too much into the future at the moment,” he said. “I'm happy playing football and I go into work with a smile on my face every day. For me that's the best thing.

I feel like I've been training and getting that confidence and playing with confidence as well, it's just about taking what I do in training into games. I've been patient and I'll wait for my opportunity.”

Lingard, who has started just nine times in the league this season, did admit that things have not worked out for him the way he hoped they would in the current campaign.

“It’s been a lot different (this season). I know personally I’ve not been at it and I know what I needed to do to get that confidence back.

"I’ve been working hard and I’m just waiting for the opportunity now.

"I think I’ve got to be ready in all circumstances, whether you are starting or not. I feel like you can always make an impact in the game whether you get 25 minutes or five minutes. It’s about you being ready to make an impact and help the team.

“Next season is a new season and a new start. We can’t predict the future but we’re on a great run at the moment and it’s on the up.”

Jesse Lingard is an ambassador for American Pistachio Growers, using American pistachios as a go-to snack for training and physical recovery. Visit https://americanpistachios.co.uk/ for more information.

Original author: Charlotte Duncker

Copyright

© UEFA

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Blow for Liverpool as Thiago to miss Manchester City clash

Former Premier Soccer League (PSL) champions SuperSport United have confirmed four coronavirus cases within their camp.

The Tshwane giants revealed that the four positive cases include three players and a staff member.

However, the club indicated that three people have recovered from the deadly virus which has killed hundreds of thousands of people worldwide.

SuperSport released the following statement on Thursday as the team continues its preparations for the resumption of the 2019/20 season.

A club statement read: "SuperSport United would like to confirm four Covid-19 positive cases, which include three players and a staff member."

"Two players and the staff member were put into quarantine for 14 days after testing positive while the necessary contract tracing had taken place. The trio went for retesting and tested negative."

"The duo have returned to full training and have joined the rest of the Matsatsantsa squad in preparation for the completion of the season."

"The third player is currently in isolation for 14 days and is in high spirits and feeling well."

"We are continuing with all protocols and awaiting news from the Premier Soccer League for the resumption of the season 2019/20."

The current season has been suspended since mid-March 2020 due to the coronavirus which has affected the staging of sporting events around the world.

SuperSport are the seventh PSL club to make the Covid-19 results public after Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs, Bloemfontein Celtic, Cape Town City as well as Stellenbosch FC.

However, the PSL is working with the South African Football Association (Safa) to ensure that the suspended season resumes.

The campaign is expected to be completed in a Biologically Safe Environment (BSE) in Gauteng, but SuperSport will be without three experienced players when football starts.

Defensive midfielder Dean Furman and attackers Thabo Qalinge and Thabo Mnyamane have all parted ways with Matsatsantsa.

SuperSport are placed third on the league standings - four points behind second-placed Sundowns, who have three games in hand.

 

Original author: Austin Ditlhobolo
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Real Madrid Fall to Shock Defeat Against Newly Promoted Cádiz

90' + 1' Three minutes of stoppage time are added as both teams continue to push forward in numbers to find a winner!

90' This time it's Udinese's turn to make a weak claim for a penalty as Sema throws himself to the floor under pressure from Rabiot, but the referee opts to simply award a corner. 

88' Dybala wriggles deep inside the box, but he overruns it before despairingly going down under a tackle from Troost-Ekong and the referee - unsurprisingly - waves away his claims for a penalty.

86' Juventus push forward in a more patient manner this time, as they work it out wide to Cuadrado who clips in an inviting cross that Dybala flicks agonisingly beyond the onrushing attackers at the back post. 

84' Sema swings the resulting set-piece into the box and it's met by Fofana who nods a tame header a few yards over.

82' The hosts are still carrying a threat on the break and they underline their danger as Fofana almost latches onto a hopeful lob forward before Cuadrado races across to nod it away for a throw-in.

80' Dybala goes down under a heavy challenge from Fofana on the edge of the area, but the referee plays advantage and Ronaldo responds by smashing another powerful effort over from 20 yards.

78' Now it's Rabiot's turn to fire a shot from distance as the midfielder blasts a wild effort well over a serene Musso and into the stands from 30 yards.

77' Ronaldo shows a little frustration as he lashes a wild effort with his weaker foot, well over the bar from 25 yards.

73' The game is paused for a drinks break.

71' Douglas Costa shimmies craftily past Larsen before getting to the byline and dinking a cross to the back post where it drifts away for a throw-in. It was crossed into the perfect area, but Juventus lacked any attackers making the required run there.

66' Okaka attempts to start another counter-attack but Bentancur cynically trips him on the halfway line.  

64' Juventus are pushing forward in numbers and it's offering Udinese plenty of opportunities to break away. The latest chance culminates with Sema and Nestorovski finding themselves with a two-on-two going forward, but Sema's key pass is overhit and Rugani clears.

62' Strong save from Musso! Udinese offer Dybala space to shoot from distance again and he obliges with a curling effort from 25 yards that arcs towards the top corner, but Musso acrobatically gets across to tip it away from harm!

60' Nestorovski attempts an audacious volley from 25 yards that screws comfortably wide of Szczesny's goal.

58' Sema finds himself in plenty of space down the left flank again and he puts in another searching cross that Alex Sandro skillfully flicks away for a corner. The resulting set-piece comes to nothing but Udinese will be thrilled with Sema's influence on this game!

56' Even this early in the second half, Juventus have already managed 10 shots from outside the box. Udinese will need to be wary of this threat to avoid a repeat of De Ligt's opening goal from distance.

54' Well, after a strong first half Udinese will be delighted that they've found a deserved equaliser! Now, the question will be whether they can maintain this performance and continue to defy Juventus.

51' Ronaldo sizes up Troost-Ekong in the box before laying it off to Dybala who curls a shot a few yards wide from the edge of the area.

49' Nestorovski wastes a chance to equalise! Okaka holds it up well before feeding Ter Avest who threads a delightful throughball to Nestorovski who finds himself clean through at an angle, but his shot from 12 yards is tame and Szczesny gets across to gather it!

48' The away side immediately show intent to add to their lead as Danilo surges down the right-wing before cutting back a cross that just evades Dybala.

46' Juventus get the second half underway.

Despite the scoreline, Udinese will still be hopeful of getting a positive result. However, this will most likely require a more adventurous approach that will leave them open to counter-attacks from Juventus.

Juventus take a 1-0 lead into the break after a hard-fought opening 45 minutes against Udinese. The hosts offered a strong account of themselves and could have opened the scoring when Danilo inadvertently almost headed a Sema cross into his own net. However, despite largely fending Juventus off and restricting them to speculative efforts, the away side took the lead late in the half when De Ligt thumped a brilliant effort low into the bottom corner from 25 yards to bring his side within 45 minutes of the title.

45' + 3' HALF TIME: Udinese 0-1 Juventus

45' + 2' Bentancur makes a superb interception near the centre-circle before releasing Dybala who flies all the way into the Udinese box where a heavy touch at the final moment halts his progress.

45' + 1' Two minutes of stoppage time are added.

44' The away side had just started to lose momentum, but De Ligt has taken full responsibility for his team and lashed in a wonderful goal at the perfect moment just before half time!

40' Udinese have reacted well after a nervy opening ten minutes. Initially, they were just content to hold Juventus off without pushing forward too much, but they've become more and more adventurous since the drinks break.

38' Okaka makes a clever run in behind Rugani and Becao picks it out with an accurately clipped pass, before Okaka charges into the box and lashes a wild shot high and wide from 20 yards.

36' Strong appeals for an Udinese penalty! Rugani trips De Paul on the edge of the box and while the Udinese players cry out for a penalty, the referee waves play on enabling Sema to fire in a shot from a tight angle that Szczesny blocks away from harm!

34' Dybala nearly scores a brilliant goal! Ramsey scoops an inventive pass over Troost-Ekong, allowing Dybala to run into the box and flick it over his own head, before attempting an overhead-kick that flashes just wide of the near post.

32' The hosts enjoy a long period of possession after a neat interchange between Fofana and De Paul, but it fails to materialise in an opportunity before Ronaldo tracks back to poke the ball away.

30' Despite enjoying 63% possession so far, Juventus have only been able to produce one shot from inside the box. Udinese's back five have looked disciplined and they've done an excellent job of restricting the league-leaders. 

28' The game is paused for a drinks break.

27' Ronaldo almost opens the scoring! Juventus push forward methodically again with a patient move that ends with Ronaldo cutting inside and curling a deft effort inches wide of the far post from 25 yards!

26' Zeegelaar makes good progress down the left flank before drilling in a cross towards Nestorovski who hits a curling, first-time effort well over the bar from 18 yards.

24' De Paul neatly squares it to Sema, who cracks off a powerful effort from 25 yards that swerves comfortably wide of Szczesny's near post.

22' Dybala swings in a free-kick from deep for the away side, but it wastefully sails over all the attackers and into the grateful arms of Musso.

19' The hosts find a rare opportunity to counter-attack, but Rabiot recovers brilliantly to track Okaka down and dispossess the attacker.

17' Bernardeschi darts inside from the right and attempts a fizzing effort from 20 yards that Troost-Ekong does well to charge down and clear.

15' Despite Danilo almost handing the hosts the lead, Juventus have started well so far. They've spent the majority of the game inside the Udinese half and the intensity and urgency of their passing has created plenty of shooting opportunities.

13' Juventus almost take the lead! Under heavy pressure from Dybala, Nuytinck hits a strong backpass to Musso and it rolls under his foot and a few yards wide of goal! Then, from the resulting set-piece, Ter Avest can only clear it as far as Ramsey who lashes a fierce half-volley from 20 yards that Musso does well to palm to safety!

11' Dybala clips in the first corner of the match for Juventus, but the Udinese backline holds firm and Becao hacks it away at the near post.

10' Udinese hit the post! Sema dances past de Ligt on the left flank, before cutting inside and swirling in a brilliant cross that Danilo fearfully glances onto his own post! Szczesny would have had no chance if that had just drifted on target!

8' Bernardeschi carefully shuffles past a few challenges and into the box before laying it off to Ronaldo, who's fended away by Troost-Ekong at the vital moment.

6' Ronaldo swivels explosively on the edge of the box, before firing a firm shot straight at Musso - the goalkeeper will be relieved that the attacker couldn't find a corner there!

5' Udinese have been favourable opponents for Juventus in recent times, just adding to their confidence in securing a win tonight: Juventus are unbeaten in their last eight games against Udinese in Serie A and have scored an average of three goals per game in the process.

3' Juventus quickly settle down any nerves with a long period of possession inside their own half.

1' Udinese get the first half underway.

The players are emerging from the tunnel and kick off is just seconds away!

Despite their differing league positions, today is all set to be a difficult task for Juventus: they’ve lost three of their last seven away fixtures, as many as they’d lost in their previous 13 games on their travels.

Juventus, meanwhile, make three changes following their victory over Lazio. The main headline is that Douglas Costa is replaced by Bernardeschi in attack, while Danilo comes in for Cuadrado and Rugani replaces Bonucci.

Udinese make four changes to the side that lost 2-1 against Napoli last time out: De Maio drops out of the defence with Troost-Ekong returning, while Larsen also moves to the bench. Walace and Lasagna aren’t deemed fit enough for the bench with Okaka and Sema taking their place.

SUBS: Giacomo Vrioni, Carlo Pinsoglio, Blaise Matuidi, Simone Muratore, Luca Coccolo, Merih Demiral, Juan Cuadrado, Marco Olivieri, Gianluigi Buffon, Luca Zanimacchia, Miralem Pjanic, Douglas Costa.

JUVENTUS (4-3-3): Wojciech Szczesny; Danilo, Daniele Rugani, Matthijs de Ligt, Alex Sandro; Aaron Ramsey, Rodrigo Bentancur, Adrien Rabiot; Federico Bernardeschi, Paulo Dybala, Cristiano Ronaldo.

SUBS: Marco Ballarini, Eric Lirussi, Enrico Oviszach, Samir, Sebastien De Maio, Mattia Compagnon, Martin Palumbo, Nicolas, Francesco Mazzolo, Samuele Perisan, Jens Stryger Larsen.

UDINESE (3-5-2): Juan Musso; William Troost-Ekong, Rodrigo Becao, Bram Nuytinck; Hidde ter Avest, Rodrigo de Paul, Seko Fofana, Ken Sema, Marvin Zeegelaar; Illija Nestorovski, Stefano Okaka.

At the opposite end of the table, this is a crucial game for Udinese too: they find themselves four points above the relegation zone and avoiding defeat would go a long way to securing their survival.

Hello and welcome to live commentary of this Serie A fixture between Udinese and Juventus. Today could be an enormous day for Juventus, who know that a win will clinch their ninth straight title – and the first league title of manager Maurizio Sarri’s career.

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