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Video: Breaking News: Harry Maguire found guilty; given suspended sentence

The Gunners opened the scoring in Sunday's North London derby before they were humbled by Jose Mourinho's men

Former Ghana midfielder Emmanuel Frimpong has explained what it feels like to be an Arsenal fan their 2-1 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur.

Frimpong who played for the Gunners between 2011 and 2014 after developing through their youth ranks, bemoaned the defensive blunder made by David Luiz and Sead Kolasinac which paved way for Spurs’ equaliser on Sunday.

Alexandre Lacazette's stunning strike broke the deadlock at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in the 16th minute but the lead was cut short after Luiz failed to clear a back pass from Kolasinac 137 seconds later.

Son Heung-Min pounced on their mistake and drew Spurs level as both teams were tied until the final 10 minutes of the encounter.

The blunder which led to the equaliser got Frimpong disappointed, and he tagged it as 'shocking defending' between Luiz and Kolasinac.

“What the hell. What’ going on? This is what I was telling you before,” Frimpong was quoted as saying by HITC.

“The defending is shocking. Shocking defending. Shocking defending for professional footballers.

“Shocking, David Luiz and Kolasinac. Shocking. I mean this is what it feels like to be an Arsenal fan. One minute you are happy and the next minute you are sad. It is what it is.”

Toby Alderweireld completed the turnaround for Jose Mourinho’s side with his header off Son’s corner-kick in the 81st minute which secured their 2-1 victory.

The result was Arsenal’s loss in their last six games in all competitions and it was a setback in their race for European football qualification.

Frimpong retired from football at the age of 27 in March 2019 after struggling with recurring knee problems.

The former Black Stars midfielder made six Premier League appearances for Arsenal before leaving for Championship outfit Barnsley in 2014.

The 28-year-old who was born in Kumasi, played for England U16 and U17 teams before pledging his allegiance to Ghana in 2011.

He made his only appearance for the Black Stars against Sudan during a Fifa World Cup qualifying match in 2013.

Original author: Taiye Taiwo
  180 Hits

Ancelotti contradicts Koeman: Clasico fear 'good'

The Foxes boss understands that his team is under the pump to finish in the top four and hinted that his players may have lost focus

A disappointed Brendan Rodgers believes Leicester City will 'finish where they deserve' after their top four hopes took a hit in a 4-1 thrashing at Bournemouth on Sunday.

The Foxes remain in fourth position despite the defeat, but will drop to fifth if Manchester United defeat Southampton on Monday evening.

Rodgers was surprised at the heavy loss suffered by his players at the Vitality Stadium and implored them to focus on their form instead of worrying about the dream of finishing in the top four.

The former Liverpool boss also had no complaints about the red card suffered by defender Caglar Soyuncu, who kicked out petulantly at Callum Wilson.

"I didn't see that coming but we are not good enough to get too comfortable," the Leicester manager said. "We were in control of the game, Bournemouth changed their shape and you expect a 10-minute spell when you are up against it.

"We let them into the game with a penalty and I was very disappointed with how we played from there. It's not like us, we are a team that is strong mentally and we don't concede many goals.

"It's a red card. We should defend the goal better but [Soyuncu] he's lashed out. You offer the referee the opportunity to send you off. It's massive to lose him for the next three games.

"I've always said it's a dream for us to finish in the top four but we have to worry about playing well. At the moment, since we came back we have been playing for 45 minutes in games and that's not enough. We will finish where we deserve to.

"If you think about what is at stake you have lost your focus."

Leicester had looked on course for only a second league win since last month's resumption after Jamie Vardy's 23rd-minute opener, but they fell apart in the second half.

A Kasper Schmeichel error just past the hour led to Wilfred Ndidi conceding a penalty, which Junior Stanislas converted, and 101 seconds later Dominic Solanke ended a 39-match wait for his first top-flight goal for the club.

Soyuncu then received his marching orders in the 67th minute for the altercation with Wilson, straight after the Foxes had gone from leading the match to trailing in a two-minute period.

A Jonny Evans own goal in the 83rd minute effectively secured the win, before Solanke's second rounded it off – the victory moving Bournemouth back to within three points of safety ahead of their final three games,.

Leicester have a tough finish to their league campaign with Sheffield United (home), Tottenham (away) and Manchester United (home) to come.

Original author: Goal
  180 Hits

Chelsea Keep or Dump: Tough calls to make on Pulisic, Sterling and more

The Red Devils' form since the winter has led to whispers of a resurgence but the midfielder says that the club is not getting ahead of itself

Nemanja Matic says that he believes Manchester United's young stars have matured over the past few years but that he believes more improvement must be made if the club is to challenge for Premier League glory once again.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side are unbeaten across all competitions since late January, fired in no small part by the performances of their youthful talents, including academy breakout Mason Greenwood and former Sporting starlet Bruno Fernandes.

United have not won the Premier League since Sir Alex Ferguson's final season at the helm in 2013 but whispers have started to grow that the Red Devils may be finally poised to return to their former glories.

Former Chelsea man Matic believes that his side's exciting attack is on its way to realising its potential too and feels that they will only continue to climb over the coming years.

"I have to be honest: it was not always easy to be in our team because we had a lot of young players, with no experience of playing at the highest level," he told Stats Perform News .

"But that was a period of transition of our team and I think in the last few years many players matured a lot.

"I have to mention [Marcus] Rashford, [Anthony] Martial, Greenwood, so many players matured a lot. They know they have a lot of responsibility; they play every game.

"I am happy to see them improving, taking responsibility and I am sure this team can only improve.

"It was difficult for us in the past because we were inconsistent, but I think the team is ready, more experienced. If we can improve 10 or 20 per cent more then we can challenge for the title next season."

United can still secure a return to the Champions League this term uner Solskjaer, with a top-four finish in their sights after Chelsea slumped to defeat against Sheffield United on Saturday.

"We are fighting, we are playing, we want to finish in the top four. There are only four games left but we are there," Matic added.

"We are fighting with Chelsea and Leicester [City] for that position. We know it's going to be hard, but we will try and win every game until the end. We want to win the Europa League and the FA Cup."

Original author: Dom Farrell
  110 Hits

Germany stars should hide after loss - Klinsmann

A goal in the first half and three in the second half ensured Wekundu wa Msimbazi secured sweet revenge

Simba SC progressed to the FA Cup finals after beating arch-rivals Yanga SC 4-1 at the National Stadium in Dar es Salaam.

Goals from Gerson Fraga, Clatous Chama, Luis Miquissone and Muzamiru Yassin were enough to make Simba fans smile wide at a half-packed stadium.

Simba grabbed the opener in the 21st minute from a strike by their Brazilian midfielder Fraga following an attack that was spearheaded by John Bocco, which ended up undoing Yanga’s defence.

Bocco tricked two of Yanga defenders and crossed the ball to Chama, the Zambian cut inside and found Fraga, who fired home with a low drive.

Fraga was among the players who earned a starting position as Sven Vandenbroeck tweaked his team. The Belgian coach reinstated most of his first-team members who sat out their previous league match against Namungo FC.

Only Meddie Kagere and Hassan Dilunga were the regular starters who were benched while Jonas Mkude returned and started after an injury he suffered in June before the league resumed.

On the other hand, Yanga coach Luc Eymael did not tinker a lot with his usual starting line-up.

With a 57% ball possession in the first half, Simba looked dominant as they also recorded two shots on target while Yanga registered none.

The Wekundu wa Msimbazi also had a higher number of shots off target standing at four while Yanga had zero.

Yanga players were caught on an offside position twice and had two of their stars shown yellow cards while their opponents were neither caught offside or yellow carded in the first half.

Simba stretched the lead in the 50th minute when Chama, after assisting in the making of the first goal, beat Metacha in Yanga’s goal.

As Yanga were still in shock due to Chama’s goal, Miquissone added the third for Simba two minutes after the second goal.

The goal is the first for the Mozambican against Yanga since joining in January from UD Songo.

Yanga fought and earned a 70th-minute goal from Fei Toto’s strike. Yassin, a second-half entrant, ensured Simba claimed a huge win as he scored the fourth goal in the 88th minute.

Before the match, Simba’s spokesperson Haji Manara had promised his Yanga counterparts huge amount of money should Wekundu wa Msimbazi win. It is now a matter of waiting and seeing if Manara will honour the pledge.

"If we lose against Yanga, I will give [their officials Antonio Nugaz and Hassan Bumbuli] TSh1 million each," he said.

"I understand they defeated us in our last meeting in the league, but as I have been saying, a fluke does not happen twice.”

Sunday's match was the third time the two Kariakoo rivals clashed in the year and while the first tie, on January 4 ended in a 2-2 draw after a Yanga comeback, Simba lost the March 8 meeting by a 1-0 margin.

Simba will now face Namungo - who defeated Sahare All-Stars in the first semi-final - in the ultimate match as their dream of a season double remains alive.

Yanga SC XI: Metacha Mnata, Juma Abdul, Lamine Moro, Said Makapu, Papy Tshishimbi, Fei Toto, Haruna Niyonzima, Deus Kasekem David Molinga, Bernard Morrison.

Subs: Farouk Shikalo, Kelvin Yondan, Adeyum Saleh, Patrick Sibomana, Mrisho Ngasa, Ditram Nchimbi.

Simba SC XI: Aishi Manula, Mohammed Hussien, Kennedy Juma, Pascal Wawa, Jonas Mkude, Luis Miquissone, Gerson Fraga, John Bocco, Clatous Chama, Francis Kahata.

Subs: Beno Kakolanya, Gadiel Michael, Erasto Nyoni, Mzamiru Yassin, Hassan Dilunga, Meddie Kagere, Miraji Athuman.

Original author: Kiplagat Sang
  98 Hits

Dodoma Jiji FC seal promotion to Tanzania Mainland League

Gwambina FC are the other team who will be dining with the big boys in the 2020/21 campaign

Dodoma Jiji have been promoted to the Tanzania Mainland League and will now be part of 16 teams in the 2020/21 campaign.

 The Dodoma-based side won promotion to the top tier after a 2-0 win over Iringa United FC. 

In the match played at Jamhuri Stadium, the hosts opened the scoring after just five minutes when Jabir Anuary managed to find the back of the net. It was a goal which gave the home fans a reason to cheer their players.

The visitors did their best to get the equalizer but good defending from the hosts prevented them from getting it.

In the 32nd minute, Mcha Khamis doubled the advantage to break the hearts of the few travelling fans.

The result ensured Dodoma finished top of Zone A with 51 points, sealing automatic promotion to the top tier. They managed to win 16 matches out of the 22 played, drawing three and losing three.

Second-placed Ihefu also finished with the same number of points after defeating Cosmopolitan 3-0 in another second-tier game played at Highlands Estate Grounds in Mbarali but had an inferior goal difference.

While Dodoma had a goal difference of 26, Ihefu had 22 and now they will have to try and work harder next season for promotion.

Dodoma Jiji now joins Gwambina FC who had qualified earlier. The Mwanza-based side were promoted on June 27 after their hard-fought 1-0 win against Pamba.

The club was only founded one year ago, and earned promotion with two matches to spare when they managed to get 44 points from 20 matches. The second-placed Geita Gold had 10 points fewer than the FDL Group B champions.  

The 2020/21 Tanzania top tier will have 16 teams as opposed to the current 20.

Singida United have been relegated already. They have collected just 15 points from the 34 matches and have managed to win just three matches, with six draws and 25 losses.

Others who are in the red zone as well are Mtibwa Sugar, Ndanda FC, Lipuli FC and Mbao. Six teams will be relegated this season, with two joining the top-tier.
 

 

 

Original author: Seth Willis
  201 Hits

Trezeguet achieves Aston Villa first with Crystal Palace brace

The Egypt international found the net twice as Dean Smith’s men subdued Roy Hodgson’s Eagles at Villa Park

Mahmoud ‘Trezeguet’ Hassan scored his first brace in English football as Aston Villa handed a 2-0 defeat to Crystal Palace in Sunday’s Premier League game.

The 25-year-old scored in both halves as the Claret and Blue ended their 10-match winless streak against Roy Hodgson’s men. It was also their first victory in the English top-flight since January 21's triumph over Watford.

After Jack Grealish was fouled around 30 yards from Palace’s goal, Conor Hourihane whipped his free-kick into the penalty area which Trezeguet drilled past Vicente Guaita after the visitors failed to tidy their backline.

That was Trezeguet’s first goal in 2020 after a seven-month wait. The last time he scored was on December 4 when Smith’s side crumbled 2-1 to Frank Lampard’s Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

His second, which guaranteed maximum points for his team, came in the 59th minute courtesy of Conor Hourihane’s assist.

Christian Benteke’s dismissal after the final whistle added more woes to Crystal Palace’s defeat. The Belgian was shown a red card by referee Martin Atkinson for an off-the-ball incident with Ezri Konsa.

This was the first time Aston Villa avoided defeat in a league game in which the former Kasimpasa man had scored.

In the same vein, the double was his first brace in the English elite division since joining from the Turkish Super Lig on July 24, 2019, for a fee of £8.75 million.

Also, he is the second Villan to net a double in this season’s competition since Wesley Moraes against Norwich City in October.

In addition, only Grealish has scored more than him in this season’s English top-flight.

After an impressive display, he was replaced by Anwar El-Ghazi with two minutes left to play.

This win will serve as a boost for Aston Villa's survival chances and close the gap on their rivals above them. They are now four points behind Watford and West Ham, moving them up to 18th, and they face Everton next time out.

Elsewhere, Palace remain 14th and winless in their last five games, and they will return to Selhurst Park to face Manchester United on Thursday.

Original author: Shina Oludare
  192 Hits

Ogebe opens Sportis KKP Bydgoszcz goal account with brace against IKKP Inowrocław

The 25-year-old scored twice to open her goal account in Poland as her side cruised past their Ekstraliga rivals in a warm-up tie

Alice Ogebe opened her goal account with a brace as Sportis KKP Bydgoszcz thrashed IKKP Inowrocław 9-0 in Sunday's friendly.

The Nigeria international joined the Polish team from Spanish outfit Real Betis and enjoyed an impactful start after giving two assists in Sportis' 3-2 win over Medyk Konin on Wednesday.

Ogebe made her second appearance as a substitute against the Polish third division winners, having played the duration on her debut against the Polish runners-up in mid-week.

The Polish Ekstraliga side struggled to impose themselves against the solid visitors until Dariusz Gugała found the back of the net to hand the hosts the lead just before the end of the first half. 

After the restart, Pioyt Mazurkiewicz made wholesale changes to his team, bringing on nine players, including, Ogebe, in the second half.

The Nigerian netted twice, Beata Stępień hit a treble, while Patrycja Gietkowska, Martha Andrzejewska and Karolina Majda contributed a goal each to help Sportis wrap up another win.

Ogebe, who was in action for the second 45 minutes, has now provided two goals and two assists in two matches for Sports.

The victory will raise the confidence of Mazurkiewicz's side as they gear up for their season opener at Akademia Piłkarska on August 7.

Having opened her goal account, Ogebe will aim to maintain her fine form when they visit Olympia Szczecin in Kalisz Pomorski on July 19.

 

Original author: Samuel Ahmadu
  208 Hits

Tottenham 2-1 Arsenal: Alderweireld settles north London derby to boost European hopes

Tottenham 2-1 Arsenal: Alderweireld settles north London derby to boost European hopes

Tottenham moved above Arsenal in the Premier League table thanks to a 2-1 derby win secured in the latter stages.

Toby Alderweireld scored a late headed winner to secure Tottenham a 2-1 north London derby victory over Arsenal, boosting Spurs' European hopes at the expense of their visitors. 

Spurs were second best for much of the encounter and conceded first, but after equalising and then holding firm against a dominant Arsenal, Alderweireld glanced home late on to move Jose Mourinho's men above the Gunners in the table. 

While the game perhaps lacked some of the derby's usual ferocity, the first half certainly provided thrills and spills, with Alexandre Lacazette's spectacular opener and Son Heung-min's well-taken leveller both consequences of defensive mishaps. 

The contest was considerably different after the break, however, as Spurs sat back and appeared to invite pressure on. After seeing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang hit the crossbar, the hosts clinched victory nine minutes from time, keeping them in the hunt for a European spot. 

The match burst into life with Lacazette's goal – the Frenchman blasting into the top-left corner after Granit Xhaka had won possession back from Serge Aurier.

However, Arsenal's lead lasted just 137 seconds, defensive concentration proving their Achilles heel yet again as Sead Kolasinac's mishit pass to David Luiz released Son, who provided a clever finish over the approaching Emiliano Martinez.

Arsenal's goalkeeper did make a decisive intervention just past the half-hour mark, though, tipping Ben Davies' piledriver onto the bar, before an Aubameyang free-kick went agonisingly wide at the other end.

Although the excitement initially dried up after half-time, a dominant Arsenal did go close to retaking the lead in the 59th minute, Aubameyang's fierce left-footed strike crashing off the bar.

Following the reprieve, Spurs appeared emboldened towards the end. Martinez was forced to pounce at the feet of Son after good work from Harry Kane but was helpless to prevent Alderweireld clinching a potentially vital victory for Spurs, the Belgian meeting Son's corner with a well-placed header.


What does it mean? Old habits die hard for Gunners 

Just when you think Arsenal might be sorting themselves out, the same old issues come to light.

For the majority of proceedings, they were the better team. However, Son's goal came about through a defensive error, while poor marking contributed to Spurs' winner too.

Son makes the difference 

While he may not have produced a scintillating individual display, Son was decisive with the first goal and then set up the second, while he also worked hard on the left flank with his tracking back – that will surely leave Hugo Lloris content. 

Kolasinac culpable 

Playing on the left of Arsenal's three-man defensive line, Kolasinac endured a difficult outing. His poor pass set up Son for the equaliser, while on several occasions he was slow to move out from the back, costing the Gunners the chance to counter. 

Key Opta facts

- Tottenham (W4 D2) have gone unbeaten in six consecutive home league games against Arsenal for the first time since January 1968 (nine games). 
- Mikel Arteta is the first Arsenal boss to lose his opening north London derby in charge in the Premier League since Bruce Rioch in November 1995.
- Jose Mourinho has never lost a home game against Arsenal, winning six and drawing four of his 10 matches – against no side has he faced more often at home without losing (level with Everton and Manchester United). 
- Only West Ham (24) have dropped more points from winning positions in the Premier League this season than Arsenal (21). 
- Alexandre Lacazette became the first Arsenal player to score home and away against Spurs in a single Premier League season since Per Mertesacker in 2012-13. 
- Son Heung-min has scored 13 goals in all competitions at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, more than any other player (Harry Kane, 12). 

What's next? 

Tottenham go to Newcastle United on Wednesday, while Arsenal host champions Liverpool the same day, as they prepare for their FA Cup semi-final clash with Manchester City three days later. 

Original author: Ryan Benson
  191 Hits

Paul Pogba Responds to Fresh Questions About Joining Real Madrid

The Mexico international scored his sixth successive penalty as the Old Gold triumphed over Carlo Ancelotti’s Toffees on Sunday afternoon

Raul Jimenez took a step closer to a Premier League record currently held by former Manchester City star Yaya Toure on Sunday.

The Mexican converted from the penalty spot as Wolverhampton Wanderers subdued Everton 3-0 at Molineux during a commanding display.

In the closing stages of the first-half, Daniel Podence was tackled by Lucas Digne, prompting referee Anthony Taylor to point to the penalty spot.

Jimenez converted the resulting kick that left goalkeeper Jordan Pickford with no chance before Leander Dendoncker and Diogo Jota rounded off the win in the second half.

With this, the 28-year-old has scored with all six of the penalties he has taken in the English elite division since his move from Benfica.

Nevertheless, it is Manchester City’s Toure who holds the record for the most consistent penalty success rate in the division, having scored all 11 of his spot kicks during his spell at the Etihad Stadium.

Former Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov is second on the list with nine, while former Denmark and Liverpool star Jan Molby is third having achieved his own perfect conversion rate with seven strikes - an honour he shares with former Southampton star Rickie Lambert.

Also, that takes Jimenez’s goal tally this season to 16 from 35 league outings. After a fine shift against Carlo Ancelotti’s men, he was substituted in the 78th minute for Portugal’s Joao Moutinho.

"You are in pain [after a defeat] but you stand up the next morning and you have to go again. That is the game,” Nuno Espirito Santo said after the game.

“We had a lot of action today and didn't concede too many chances, it's always about trying to upgrade and raise the standards.

“It was not our main objective [keeping in touch with the top four], there were things we should improve. It's not about that, it's about trying to create and raise standards so we become a better team. 

“Our finishes were not so good, look at the chances we had. Adama is not going to have an easier one."

Thanks to this result, Wolves remain in contention for a place in next season's Champions League after moving up to sixth, three points behind Manchester United - who play Southampton on Monday night - while Everton stay 11th.

Original author: Shina Oludare
  97 Hits

Paul Pogba reports for Man Utd training but future remains unresolved

The striker recounts the ordeal at Nkawkaw in the Ghana Premier League in 2017 and connected issues 

Former Asante Kotoko forward Sadick Adams is the latest to bemoan a long wait for financial compensation following the team's fatal road accident in 2017.

On their way back to their Kumasi-base from Accra after a Ghana Premier League (GPL) fixture against Inter Allies, the Porcupine Warriors were met by misfortune as they suffered a vehicular crash at Nkawkaw.

Sunday marks exactly three years since the incident which claimed the life of deputy equipment officer Thomas Obeng Asare and left several others injured.

“Exactly three years today, we were involved in such a tragedy that claimed the life of our brother Mr Asare. May his soul rest in perfect peace,” Adams wrote on Facebook.

“That saw many of our colleagues going through some hardships. All we can say now is Alhamdullilah! We survived and [are] still alive but what happened and still is happening is in the hands of the Almighty Allah and he knows best and he will surely see us through.

“I remember going through pain, seeing some of my colleagues shouting and crying, Michael Akuffo nearly ran into the bush out of shock.

“My boy Baba Mahama was bleeding so badly with a nose cut. Through my pain, I had to use my towel to stop his nose bleeding.

“Akuffo’s shin was horribly damaged that we couldn’t even watch. Isaac Amoako and Owusu Sefa had cuts on their foreheads, you can’t just watch.

“Nana Berchie, Godwin Ablordey and [coach] Stephen Polack had serious damages to their legs. But we say Alhamdullilah.

“Imagine going through all these pains for years, following the right legal [channel] to demand what is due you and nothing comes over three years now. Insurance packages, donations from [corporate] bodies, etc, have all not been given. Hmmm least said. Still watching."

The fateful match ended in a 1-0 loss to Allies at Accra's El-Wak Sports Stadium.

Kotoko's bus, which crashed into a stationary truck, was carrying a contingent of 15 players, seven technical officials and two journalists.

Adams' complaints follow an earlier lamentation by former goalkeeper Isaac Amoako, a member of the Porcupine Warriors' travelling party.

The striker, a former Atletico Madrid youth team player, is currently in search of a new club. 

Original author: Prince Narkortu Teye
  225 Hits

Di Canio refuses to apologise for Mourinho 'worst of the worst' comments

The Nigeria internationals have been handed starting roles against the Cherries and will hope to help the Foxes secure a victory at Dean Court

Kelechi Iheanacho and Wilfred Ndidi have been named in Leicester City’s lineup for their Premier League game against Bournemouth on Sunday.

Iheanacho has been in fine form since the restart of the English top-flight, having found the back of the net twice in his last three games.

The Super Eagles forward has a total of 10 goals in this campaign, including five in the Premier League to help the Foxes to their current fourth spot in the league.

The former Manchester City striker will be making his 11th league start at Dean Court and will hope to help his side secure their 18th win of the season to boost their Champions League hopes.

Ndidi, meanwhile, has been a constant figure for the King Power Stadium outfit since his arrival in 2015 from Belgian club Genk

This season the 23-year-old has made 35 appearances across all competitions including 28 in the English top-flight.  

The midfielder will be making his 26th start in the encounter and will hope to help Brendan Rodgers’ side bounce back to winning ways after last weekend’s draw against Arsenal.

The Nigeria internationals will hope to impress in the encounter and help the Foxes secure all three points.

Original author: Gbenga Adewoye
  240 Hits

Experience to blame for Myda's poor start in UPL - Musafiri

The club has so far parted ways with 12 players in a bid to create room for possible newcomers

Wazito president Ricardo Badoer has laid down the club's transfer plans ahead of the 2020/21 season.

Wazito have already released 12 players who were part of a squad that failed to make much of an impact in the 2019/20 season.

Wazito went on a signing spree just after they conquered the National Super League (NSL) and Badoer has hinted the transfer business will be conducted with a different vision this time around.

 “The plan is different now,” Badoer said as he was quoted by the club’s website on Sunday.

“We are looking to sign some good emerging players from other teams, these are young hungry players. We want players who want to play football for Wazito.”

Experienced Paul Kiongera and Lloyd Wahome were the latest players to exit the Nairobi-based club as the president affirmed those who will be signed should show love for Wazito.

“We are not going to sign high profile players this time around. The target is to get young players who are hungry and want to perform well,” the Dubai-based businessman added.

“There’s no point in signing big names that won’t deliver.” 

Although Badoer’s comments after sacking the players attracted criticism from members of the public, coaches and pundits alike, former Wazito coach Melis Medo and retired Kenyan striker Dennis Oliech defended him.

Medo, who oversaw just three matches while in charge of Wazito last year, said Badoer needed to have acted on the players seven months ago.

“Not all players deserve to go but I actually support Ricco’s decision,” Medo told Goal on Wednesday.

“I said the same thing seven months ago these players were not ready to play for the team and nobody believed me.

“I also want to believe the boss when he said they were all signed without his approval.

“Actually, [Badoer] should have done these changes seven months ago, only one man keeps harming that team but he is no longer there.”

On his part, Oliech said he admires Badoer’s leadership firmness.

“I like people who are firmly in charge of their teams and take the bull by his horns like Ricardo [Badoer],” Oliech said in a separate interview.

“I support his decision to axe the lazy players because they were a big let-down to him.”

Wazito are understood to be eying players from financially struggling Kenyan Premier League (KPL) teams.

Original author: Kiplagat Sang
  197 Hits

Ajayi and El Shenawy headline Al Ahly squad for Wydad Casablanca clash

The ex-Chelsea and Manchester United boss has never suffered home defeat to the Gunners and kept that record alive on Sunday with a thrilling victory

Jose Mourinho has had his ups and downs during his long stint in the Premier League - but the manager rarely comes unstuck when Arsenal come calling. 

Mourinho's Tottenham hosted their north London rivals in Sunday's derby needing a positive result following dropped points against Sheffield United and Bournemouth in recent weeks. 

And they looked set for another difficult afternoon when Alexandre Lacazette scored with a brilliant long-range effort after 16 minutes to give the visitors the lead. 

Arsenal, however, had little time to enjoy their advantage, as a horrific defensive mix-up between Sead Kolasinac and David Luiz allowed Son Heung-Min to level the scoreline a matter of minutes later. 

The clash was finally settled in the dying minutes thanks to Toby Alderweireld, who steered a fine header past Emiliano Martinez to give Spurs all three points and push them ahead of Arsenal in the Premier League standings. 

Sunday's match was the 10th time Mourinho has hosted a Gunners side, previously taking on the Londoners with Chelsea and Manchester United

During that time he has never suffered a home defeat to Arsenal, winning six and drawing four of those encounters. 

Spurs were also left to celebrate the extension of their own recent superiority over their neighbours, taking their unbeaten home run in derbies to six - four wins and two draws - thanks to Sunday's victory.

Arsenal, meanwhile, were left once more to rue missed chances as they continued a depressing pattern that has haunted them all season. 

The club have lost no less than 21 points slip from winning positions in the league this term, a tally surpassed only by West Ham in the entire top-flight.  

Spurs' comeback win additionally underlined the Gunners' woes against the Premier League's big-hitters. 

Not since victory over Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium in 2015 have Arsenal managed to beat a 'big six' (a group that brings together City, Liverpool, Spurs, Chelsea and Manchester United as well as the Gunners) side away from home, a drought that now spans 27 league clashes.

Mikel Arteta's men return to action on Wednesday at home to Liverpool, while Tottenham visit Newcastle United

Original author: Goal
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Musa Mohammed set to return to Nkana FC after failed Sofapaka talks

The centre-back delivered a late goal to help his side complete their comeback triumph, and warned that the best was yet to come

Toby Alderweireld has backed Tottenham to push on and show their true potential after clinching a late victory in Sunday's north London derby over Arsenal. 

The Belgium defender proved Spurs' hero when he netted with a towering header to put his side ahead with just nine minutes remaining of the Premier League clash. 

Alexandre Lacazette had given the Gunners an early lead before a defensive blunder allowed Son Heung-Min to equalise almost instantly. 

Victory pushed Spurs up to eighth in the standings, leapfrogging their rivals with just three rounds remaining in the 2019-20 season. 

And while it has been far from a vintage season for Tottenham following the euphoria of reaching the Champions League final last term, Alderweireld believes the derby win will help Jose Mourinho's men to put together a strong run of results to finish the campaign.

"It was a good cross, I thought it was a little bit too high and I got my head underneath it. It was a nice goal," the centre-back told BBC Radio 5 Live after the final whistle. 

"It always [hurts after defeat], people don't see how hard we work. We tried to do better today and showed there is character in the team, like fighting spirit.

"Defensively we are getting much better in the last couple of games and you have seen we have quality up front because we could have scored more than two goals.

"Sometimes you need some confidence, like a good win and get the momentum a little bit. The only thing we can do is work hard. What people don't see is that everyone is putting everything into it and I believe that things will change. Today is a very important win for us and the fans.

Alderweireld added to Sky Sports: "I think it's massive for us. I think we really wanted to win this game, you know it's difficult without the fans, it will be a totally different atmosphere but I think we did everything that we could. We fought.

"I think we did have a little bit of luck to get three points today.

"I think with the goal, because against Bournemouth, you missed a little bit of luck to get the last pass, so I think today we had the little bit of luck to get the 2-1."

Original author: Goal
  120 Hits

Eymael: Yanga coach takes responsibility after derby defeat to Simba SC

The Belgian coach has moved to carry the burden after his side were hammered by the Wekundu wa Msimbazi in the derby
Original author: Dennis Mabuka
  199 Hits

'It came from their hearts' - Mourinho hails Spurs as Arsenal derby win keeps up Europa League hunt

The Portuguese saw his side pick up three key points as they look to finish a middling campaign on a high note with a European spot

Jose Mourinho hailed Tottenham's North London derby win over rivals Arsenal as a result that came "from their hearts" as the club kept up the hunt for a Europa League place with victory over the Gunners.

Goals from Heung-min Son and Toby Alderweireld overturned Alexandre Lacazette's opener to hand Spurs three vital points as they look to salvage what has been one of their most middling campaigns in recent years.

Tottenham have not finished outside the top four since the 2014-15 season but look all but certain to miss out on the Champions League next term, just over a year after they finished as runners-up against Liverpool in Madrid.

Victory against Mikel Arteta's side though has kept their European aspirations alive however and speaking after the match, former Chelsea and Manchester United boss Mourinho hailed his team's performance as they secured a major result with only a handful of games left to play.

"I think the game was more tactical than anything," the Portuguese told Sky Sports in his post-match interview.

"To be honest I think Mikel [Arteta] found a way for them to play, to be stable and to improve - they are improving and we felt that we should adapt slightly to them and I think we did it very well.

"Because how many times [Kieran] Tierney and [Hector] Bellerin normally reach the last third and how well they were controlled today. I think they were very controlled at that level."

"Even in the first period of the second half when they had more of the ball and they were more in our half, we were quite comfortable in that situation.

"I think also the two midfielders, they did a great job and then we found our chances and great spirit, [that] really helped.

"I think during the game nobody thought about it, even myself I didn't, but Arsenal had 48 hours more than us to rest, so it was hard but come from their hearts this effort, this battle.

"Even in the last minutes of the game after 2-1, zero problems, everything under control so we are happy.

"We are happy because we made the fans happy, we are happy because we are still in the fight to win a Europa League position."

 

'Arsenal battle came from their hearts' - Mourinho backs Spurs to fight for Europa League place after derby win

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The Leicester team that should start against Slavia Prague in the Europa League

The former striker believes Wekundu wa Msimbazi are too good for their bitter rivals

Coach Mussa Hassan Mgosi has taken a jibe at Yanga SC saying their quality is too low for Simba SC and the best they can do is try and find a way to play Simba Queens in the FA Cup.

The former striker is in charge of the Msimbazi based women's team and on Friday he helped them to a 5-1 win against Yanga Princess in a game played at Uhuru Stadium. 

"Simba showed top quality when they played Azam FC [in the 2-0 win]," Mgosi told Mwanaspoti regarding the Wekundu wa Msimbazi win over the holders in the FA Cup quarter-finals.

"If I was a Yanga official, a walkover would have been the best thing to do, or maybe write to Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) and request to play Simba Queens instead of their male counterparts."

The 34-year-old believes the Tanzania Mainland League champions will dominate the proceedings in the Kariakoo Derby and Timu ya Wananchi fans will leave early.

"I do not see any chance of Yanga defeating Simba in this game," Mgosi continued.

"All I understand is that Simba mean business and will be aiming at dominating and getting early goals. If they maintain their technique and play as planned, I am sure Yanga fans will leave the stadium early.

"Now to avoid that from happening, Yanga should play with Simba Queens."

The Kariakoo Derby will be played at the National Stadium from 5 pm with the winners advancing to the final where they play Namungo who beat Sahare All-Stars by a solitary goal on Saturday.

Earlier on, the Tanzanian government confirmed only 30,000 tickets will be available for the derby to be played at National Stadium in Dar es Salaam.

"Covid-19 is not completely eradicated in the country that is why we still need to take precautions hence 30,000 is a good number during this period," the Government's Director of Information, Culture, Arts, and Sports Yusuph Singo said. 

"Those who will not have tickets should just remain in their homes and watch the game via television since we will not allow people to congregate outside the venue and we will have enough security personnel to facilitate that."

The government also increased ticket prices for the fans keen to watch the derby with VIP A, B, and C tickets going for 30,000/-, 25,000/- and 20,000/-, respectively, while those who will occupy ordinary seats will pay 10,000/-.

"We hope the Covid-19 pandemic will end soon and after that then normal attendance will be allowed," Singo concluded.

Original author: Seth Willis
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The Arsenal lineup that should start against Benfica in the Europa League

The Bloemfontein Celtic shot-stopper spent three seasons with the Soweto giants before moving to the Free State province

Former Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Jackson Mabokgwane says an inconsistent policy of switching the number one role pushed him out of the Soweto giants.

After arriving at Pirates at the beginning of the 2016/17 season, Mabokgwane was met with competition from Brighton Mhlongo, Siyabonga Mpontshane and Equatorial Guinea international Filipe Ovono.

Then Wayne Sandilands was signed the following season in a move that stiffened competition for Mabokgwane.

After managing just three Premier Soccer League (PSL) games last term while working under goalkeeper coach Andrew Sparkes who is now at Premier League side Southampton, Mabokgwane decided not to renew his Pirates contract.

“There was a lot of rotation, they were never really sure who was their number. Only this season they have decided that Sandilands is their number one but my whole three years at the club, we shared, there was just rotation going on the whole time,” Far Post quoted Mabokgwane as having told iDiski TV.

“At the time when I was there, there was no clear number one and that affected me because I wanted to play as the number one and to be consistent and to grow but with the quality that is there you cannot really blame the rotation system that happens because if a team has too much quality and you don’t play so well you will be dropped as somebody else is waiting and that’s what happened.

“So I cannot really blame anyone because if it meant I was supposed to play 100 percent performances each and every game for me to play 30 games then that’s what it was expected and if I didn’t achieve that, I couldn’t perform at a 100 percent every single match and then I was dropped, that’s unfortunate and I had to accept.

“If you keep clean sheets and win Man of the Match awards every game, then they won’t change you and unfortunately, I didn’t do that. When my contract ended, we sat and agreed to part ways.”

At Bloemfontein Celtic, he has Sipho Chaine and South Africa national Under-23 goalkeeper Mondli Mpoto to contend with for a starting place.

He arrived at the Free State province side to find the two already there and has managed take over as the first-choice goalkeeper also thanks to the departure of Patrick Tignyemb.

The 32-year-old has managed to feature in 19 league games, keeping five clean sheets this season and declares that he still has unfinished business with the South Africa national team which he last played for in 2016.

“I am just looking forward to putting in the performances and go back to Bafana Bafana, complete my career by playing a few seasons overseas, I still have a long way to go, I’m just getting started,” said Mabokgwane.

Original author: Michael Madyira
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Arsenal's thrilling fightback at Aston Villa gets them back on track in title race

The 40-year-old has agreed to stay with Usuthu and the club said it will hold talks with him at the end of the season

Former Orlando Pirates and Bidvest Wits goalkeeper Moeneeb Josephs will keep his position as Ayanda Dlamini's assistant until the end of the season after being handed a contract extension. 

This was confirmed by Usuthu general manager Lunga Sokhela who said they have already reached an agreement with the Mitchells Plain-born legend. 

Josephs' initial contract with the Durban-based outfit expired at the end of June.

He then left the club's base afterwards but he's expected to return and sign on the dotted line before resuming with his duties now that the team has reported for training.    

"We've agreed with Moeneeb that he will stay on as an assistant coach to Ayanda Dlamini until the completion of the season," Sokhela told Daily Sun

According to Sokhela, AmaZulu will sit down with Josephs at the end of the current campaign to discuss his future. 

"At the end of the season, the club will hold talks with him," he added.   

Media reports emerged last week that Usuthu wanted Josephs to take up the role of assistant coach on a permanent basis, meaning the goalkeeper may be forced to retire from professional football.

However, that's the decision Josephs still has to make and that will depend on whether or not the club believes in his combination with Dlamini. 

As things stand, Josephs is registered as a goalkeeper and an assistant coach by Usuthu. 

The pair were handed the job following Jozef Vukusic's suspension due to a series of poor results earlier this year. 

The future of Vukusic is far from being resolved but both Dlamini and Josephs know they at least have their jobs secured for the next two months or so. 

They got their tenure off to a flying start when Usuthu stunned Kaizer Chiefs 1-0 before the lockdown in March.

AmaZulu are under immense pressure to avoid relegation in the remaining matches of the season which are likely to be completed in the Gauteng province by August 31. 

They are three points above bottom-placed Black Leopards after managing just 23 points from 24 league matches thus far. 

Should both Josephs and Dlamini help the club retain its PSL status, chances are that they could be given another season to prove themselves as coaches.

Original author: Ernest Makhaya
  110 Hits

Potter: City interest proves Cucurella's quality

The former striker believes that Jose Mourinho's team should still be challenging for silverware a year after their Champions League near-miss

Tottenham must move beyond their "dominant" rivalry with Arsenal if they are to rediscover their best form and challenge at the top of the Premier League table once again, according to former striker Dimitar Berbatov.

Just over a year after they finished as runners-up to Liverpool in the Champions League final in Madrid, Jose Mourinho's side could miss out entirely on European action next season as they find themselves locked in a mid-table tussle.

Having parted ways with long-term boss Mauricio Pochettino in November following a poor run of form, Spurs have won less than half of their top-flight fixtures since and trail their north London rivals by a point ahead of this weekend's derby encounter.

With a particularly congested race for continental football this term, the club face the prospect of being limited to domestic action only for the near-future, unless they can turn around their uneven fortunes.

Speaking ahead of the visit of Mikel Arteta's Gunners, Berbatov - who helped fire Juande Ramos' Tottenham side to an EFL Cup triumph at Wembley in 2008 - has admitted that Tottenham's tenure as the most successful club on their patch could come to an end if Arsenal stay ahead of them.

But the former Bulgaria captain stressed that his old club need to be aiming higher than their neighbours if they hope to resume their position in the upper echelons of English football.

“Spurs have been the ­dominant side in north ­London for some time, but that could change now," he told the Mirror .

“At the end of the day this is about pride, but you can’t forget they want to be even higher in the table. As a former player of the team and a fan, I know Spurs can do a lot better than they are at the minute, looking at the position they are in.

“Their goal shouldn’t be about competing with ­Arsenal – it should be about competing with Liverpool and Manchester City. What is the point of ­battling it out with Arsenal if you are only fighting for eighth or ninth position?

“They might finish above Arsenal, but you don’t get a trophy for that. For both teams the goal should be about qualifying for the Champions League and challenging the teams on top.”

Heading into the north London derby, Arteta's Arsenal are nine points adrift of fourth-placed Leicester City, while Mourinho's Spurs are 10 points behind.

Neither side are still competing in Europe, with Tottenham knocked out of the Champions League by RB Leipzig in March and Arsenal were knocked out of the Europa League by Olympiacos.

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