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'A lot of things are happening behind the scenes' - Igor Stimac hails AIFF's efforts to develop Indian football

The ATK defender thanked former India technical director Colm Toal for shaping his career...

ATK’s defensive mainstay, Pritam Kotal, is fresh off helping his side win the Indian Super League (ISL) title - a campaign where his matured performances in a three-man defence was widely appreciated.

Kotal, who used to play right-back predominantly, was a revelation in central defence under Antonio Habas.

However, the India international started his career as a defensive midfielder. From Wari FC, his first professional club to U-19 national team, Kotal used to play in the heart of the midfield.

But it was only under Colm Toal, India’s former technical director who was also in charge of the U-19 team between 2009-2012, Kotal made his transition to the right-back role.

The Bengali defender was all praises for the British coach for his invaluable contribution in shaping his career.

During a live Instagram chat with the Indian football team’s official handle, Kotal said, “I have fond memories from our U-19 days. We spent 2 years together at the AIFF (All India Football Federation) training centre in Goa. Coach Colm Toal played a very important part in my career. When I was called in the U-19 national team, I was a defensive midfielder. I played two matches as a defensive midfielder. But after that coach changed my position. He helped me a lot to improve and also spent hours after training with me.

“During our first camp in the U-19 national team, in China, I had a knee issue and couldn’t play any game. I had lost hope of making a comeback into the team. But the coach recalled me into the team and gave me a lot of confidence. We learned discipline from the coach and he also helped us to improve our basics.”

When asked if switching from defensive midfield to right-back was a big challenge, Kotal said, “When we learn something new, we obviously struggle. When I was at Wari FC in Kolkata, my first football club, I used to play as a defensive midfielder. Then again under Gautam Ghosh’s coaching in the U-19 national team, I played as a defensive midfielder.

“But after Colm Toal came, he saw me play as a midfielder and then he changed my position. I struggled for two or three months. I took some time to adjust but the coach guided me perfectly.”

Kotal revealed that he is a big fan of former India international Deepak Mondal and used to idolise him while growing up.

“Deepak Mondal (is my idol). As a defender, I used to follow him and his playing style while growing up. He has always helped me grow as a player. We are still in touch and he texted me after the ISL final,” Kotal said during the Live chat.

The former Mohun Bagan defender stated that defenders need to be versatile in order to get a chance in the starting XI.

“A player must give two or three options to a coach. If you are not flexible, you will not get a chance. If you show versatility, the coach will give you more chances.

“Even at Pailan Arrows, then coach Arthur Papas played me as a central defender. I am an introvert so I had to work on my communication which is important for a central defender. Now I can play anywhere in defence.”

Original author: Goal
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Bayern Munich predicted lineup vs Benfica - Champions League

The acquisition of the Dortmund man would drive up the standards at Old Trafford, according to their legendary striker, who sees exciting times ahead

Former Manchester United striker Dwight Yorke has urged Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to sign Jadon Sancho this summer to enable the club to challenge Liverpool and Manchester City for next season's Premier League title.

The Red Devils are long-term admirers of the Borussia Dortmund winger and Yorke believes that the 20-year-old would prove an excellent addition to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's squad.

“He’s a terrific talent and he’s linked with every top team around the world," the treble-winner told Goal.

"So, if Ole sees him as a player that can really bring something to the team and really make sure that core of players keep competition for places, then they should go for it.

“It would force other players to get their skates on and start performing. That's a healthy thing and that’s what you want to see at United. I wouldn’t be surprised if he's a player the club add going forward.”

The links with Sancho have led to discussion as to how Mason Greenwood would fit in the starting XI should the England international arrive.

The 18-year-old scored a brilliant goal against Brighton in United’s last Premier League fixture and has already netted 13 goals in all competitions in his first full campaign in the first-team squad.

Yorke, however, doesn’t think another attacker would check Greenwood’s progress, arguing that the competition could help the teenager to develop.

“It’s important to keep the young players hungry when they’re not in the team and keep pushing them,” Yorke said. “If there’s a top player out there who can bring something different to your team, it’s important United bring them in.

"If they bring in another big-name attacker now, it will only enhance the players who are already in the team and make sure they keep working.

"For United to compete with the likes of Liverpool and City next year, they need to buy another attacker and a central defender.”

United have been consistent since the resumption of play after the coronavirus-enforced break and took their unbeaten run to 15 matches in all competitions after a dominant display against Brighton on Tuesday.

Next up for Solskjaer’s side is a clash against Bournemouth at Old Trafford.

With Chelsea and Leicester dropping points in the week, Yorke is confident that fifth-placed United have what it takes to secure a lucrative Champions League spot for next season.

“The lads are playing some terrific football at the moment and it’s really exciting,” Yorke enthused. “If you look at Leicester, they are dropping off rapidly and Chelsea dropping points against West Ham that can only be encouraging for us.

"The team I worry about is Wolves in sixth because of the way they are going, so we have to keep one eye on them.

"But the fact the teams ahead of us are dropping points can only be encouraging and things are looking rosy. It’s a really exciting time.”

Watch Manchester United v Bournemouth exclusively live on BT Sport 1, btsport.com and the BT Sport app (Saturday, 2.30pm). Fans can watch this match plus more Premier League and FA Cup games in July contract free with a BT Sport Monthly pass for £25 per month.   

Original author: Charlotte Duncker
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Kieron Dyer: Former England & Newcastle midfielder needs liver transplant

The reigning Spanish champions’ season is unraveling after two draws in a row, and it’s imperative they stop the rot at Villarreal

Barcelona’s season is in danger of unravelling, as crisis continues to envelop the reigning Spanish champions ahead of Sunday’s match against Villarreal.

Quique Setien’s side was miserable against Celta Vigo, taking just a point in a 2-2 draw, while Real Madrid defeated Espanyol and then Getafe on Thursday night to go four points clear.

With only six games to play, Barca are losing momentum at the wrong time, and things are in danger of getting worse before they get better, with club president Josep Maria Bartomeu reportedly holding emergency talks with the head coach in a bid to salvage the campaign.

Reportedly, Bartomeu still supports embattled Setien, but rumours of a heated conversation between coach and players after the 2-2 draw at Balaidos has fuelled talk of a serious fissure in the team.

When questioned about Barca’s poor form after the match, Luis Suarez merely pointed the finger at Setien and his team, saying “you’ll have to ask the coaches.”

Even Lionel Messi’s brilliance hasn’t been able to inspire Barca to all three points as they’ve been held in both of their last two matches, and unless Setien and his team can come up with solutions, Real may pull away.

Barcelona only have one win in their last four matches, but it’s imperative they take all three points away at Villarreal.

By that point, Barca’s plight might be much trickier, with Real set to play again before Sunday evening.

SuperSport Fixtures

Friday 3 July – Atletico Madrid vs Mallorca (LaLiga)

Saturday 4 July – Juventus vs Torino (Serie A)

Saturday 4 July – Lazio vs AC Milan (Serie A)

Saturday 4 July – Manchester United vs Bournemouth (Premier League)

Saturday 4 July – Wolves vs Arsenal (Premier League)

Saturday 4 July – Chelsea vs Watford (Premier League)

Sunday 5 July – Liverpool vs Aston Villa (Premier League)

Sunday 5 July – Southampton vs Manchester City (Premier League)

Sunday 5 July – Athletic Bilbao vs Real Madrid (LaLiga)

Sunday 5 July – Villarreal vs Barcelona (LaLiga)

Sunday 5 July – Inter Milan vs Bologna

Sunday 5 July – Napoli vs Roma (Serie A)

Also in La Liga action this weekend, Atletico Madrid are set to host Real Mallorca on Friday evening.

Atleti have been in excellent form since the restart and demonstrated their resiliency by twice coming from behind to take a point against Barcelona. With only five points separating them from fifth-placed Villarreal, they can take nothing for granted in the race for Champions League qualification.

On Saturday, SuperSport are delighted to present the evening kickoff between Wolves and Arsenal at Molineux.

The Old Gold are firmly in the hunt for Champions League qualification, having won all of their last three, and they’ll be confident they can expose some of the enduring brittleness of Mikel Arteta’s side.

However, the Gunners—still harbouring faint UCL dreams of their own—may have turned the corner after winning their last two, and in Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, they boast the firepower to test Wolves’ backline.

Finally to Italy, where the top two are both in action on SuperSport this weekend.

Juventus host rivals Torino in the Turin derby on Friday, before Lazio welcome AC Milan a day later.

After victories over Genoa and Torino respectively on Tuesday, Lazio and Juve remain four and eight points clear of third-placed Internazionale, but the Nerazzurri’s 6-0 demolition of Brescia on Wednesday will have both of the top two looking over their shoulders.

Lazio and Inter will both be desperate for the Old Lady’s outstanding recent league form to come to an end against their local rivals, although while derbies can introduce a greater element of unpredictability, Juve will be favourites to take maximum points from the Toro.

Napoli and Roma round off the weekend's action when they go toe to toe in a match between fifth and sixth, with AC Milan coming up behind them in the battle for continental qualification, neither side can afford to slip up.

Original author: Ed Dove
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Jadon Sancho bites back at Erik ten Hag over 'performance' jibe

Amid growing concerns about a second wave of the coronavirus in the UK, Reds supporters have been urged to play their part in curbing the spread

Jurgen Klopp has backed a call from Liverpool City Council’s Director for Public Health for fans to take responsibility for their behaviour and help curb the spread of coronavirus.

Some fans were criticised after gathering in large groups to celebrate their side’s Premier League title win, despite repeated warnings about maintaining social distancing guidelines in the face of Covid-19, which has now officially claimed more than 44,000 lives in the UK.

Klopp condemned scenes which saw fans congregating on the city’s Pier Head, with one man charged by police after directing a firework at the Liver Building.

Liverpool’s public health director Matt Ashton spoke with Klopp on LFCTV, and had a clear message of restraint.

“Liverpool and Merseyside have been badly hit by coronavirus,” Ashton said. “We have had almost 600 deaths in Liverpool and over 1,600 deaths across Merseyside. I want to express the city’s condolences to all those affected.

“Thankfully, rates of the virus on Merseyside are currently relatively low, but we know that the virus is still circulating in our communities and there are signs of some small increases in some areas.

“Now is not the time for any of us to be complacent. This Sunday, and for the rest of the season, I am asking everybody to stay at home and watch the match with your loved ones.

“We can have a big party when this is all over, but this is not now. Be kind, be safe, be responsible.”

Ashton urged fans to stick to social distancing and personal hygiene measures, using face coverings where possible and getting tested if they had symptoms – a message which Klopp fully endorsed.

“I could not have said it better,” the German added. “Obviously, we have to show responsibility still, we have to show that we are different in the best understanding [of the word], that if we have to do something for the good of our loved ones, we will do it 100 per cent.

“We prove that so often, you prove it so often, and we have to prove it still now, and especially now. This is the biggest challenge for all of us in our lives.

“Even when it looks sometimes like things are easing up a little bit, it’s true but only because we have been so disciplined in the past, and that’s how we have to stay.”

Liverpool's first home fixture as champions sees them face Aston Villa at Anfield on Sunday, following Thursday's 4-0 thrashing at the hands of Manchester City.

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Salah nets in Liverpool win amid Saudi links

The African ruling body resolved to cancel this year's edition of the Women's Cup of Nations, some which the Nigerian star disagrees with

Reigning Africa Women's Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala is disappointed over the decision of the Confederation of Africa Football (Caf) to scrap the 2020 Africa Women's Cup of Nations.

This cancellation means the biennial tournament last held in 2018 will not be held until 2022, which is in contrast with the men 's event, which was slated for 2021 but was moved to 2022.

According to Caf, the move made on Tuesday during its Executive Committee meeting were "due to challenging conditions". The news was greeted with dismay by players, stakeholders and fans.

Earlier, Cameroon and Valerenga striker Ajara Nchout insisted the decision will be a serious setback for women's football, describing the Awcon tournament to be "more than a competition".

Adding her voice, the Nigeria captain and Barcelona striker feels the decision is a "big slap" on women's football in Africa, urging the Ahmad Ahmad-led administration to prioritise their interest in the sport.

"It is not looking good for women's football in Africa when you struggle to get a host nation for a continental tournament every two years," Oshoala told BBC Africa in an Instagram interview.

"We cannot be at this level in 2020. It is a shame. Caf needs to go back to their drawing board to make sure they fix women's football in one of their top priorities. 

"They have to prioritise marketing women's football. These things are happening in Europe, the Women's Champions League or the Euro tournaments are still going to go on and will not be cancelled.

"I think moving the men tournament to 2022 means they are not going to be ready for that year calendar. Same with Europe, you cannot scarp a continental tournament and it is a big slap on our face. 

"If you're moving forward to some time in 2021, it is okay but to completely cancel it, we need a proper explanation. This is more like taking five steps forward and tsking 10 steps backward. 

"Going to the World Cup with two teams going through to the Round of 16 was good for us and showed we are improving.

"Before the next edition, we should have two Awcon to prepare ourselves but cancelling one shows there are no plans for the national teams in 2021 calendar outside the Women's Champions League. 

"Caf needs to understand the women teams are not just representing their countries at the World Cup but the whole continent. 

"So, we also need more support from Caf and not just our national federations. The cancellation is not going to be helpful as teams will face two to three years of no competition before the 2023 Women's World Cup."

With the next Awcon set for 2022, the Super Falcons may face several months of inactivity, having last regrouped in October for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games qualifier against Cote d'Ivoire.

Nigeria will miss the chance to defend the African title they won two years ago in Ghana this year, having won nine of the previous 11 editions, including the last three tournaments.

Original author: Samuel Ahmadu
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Dominik Szoboszlai reveals training ground routine led to first Liverpool goal

The continent's ruling body made a landmark decision to grow the women's game with the creation of a women's club event

Confederation of African Football (Caf) president Ahmad Ahmad has assured the newly created Caf Women's Champions League will kick off in 2021, stressing that at least 10 clubs will participate.

The development follows the assurance of the Caf supremo to strengthen the growth of women's football after the launch of the four-year women's football strategic plan last November in Egypt.

The launch of the club competition for the women's game is generating huge excitement across the continent despite some reservations about the format to adopt, which is yet to be unveiled.

And the Malagasy football administrator insists the creation of the women's club event was hugely necessary amidst the concerns over the lack of professional women's football leagues in Africa.

"How we are going to start the Women's Champions League will be handled by our technical and competition officials," Ahmad recently told the media.

"With regards to the model, no matter what the problem could be, we must start in 2021. We know that all the competitions in Africa started with few participants and a lot of things are put in place.

"We know that there is nothing like professional league yet but that does not mean we don't have the professionalism and that we are not going to have the women's club competition.

"Even for men, we have a few countries that have professional leagues and we do not even have up to 10 with a professional league but Champions League for men has always taken place for ages. 

"We will have 10 to 15 clubs from several countries that are going to participate and we are going to start in 2021."

Caf also announced the cancellation of the 2020 Africa Women's Cup of Nations on Tuesday and the news will come as a rude shock to women's football fans, players and stakeholders in Africa.

When asked how the decision could be costly for the African teams at the 2023 Women's World Cup, Ahmad said: "On the contrary, this is going to strengthen the preparation of our players.

"This is because they are going to have a lot of competitions. Before they were only having the Nations Cup but now they are going to have more motivation because they will have a lot of club commitments, either regional or even on the continental stage.

"The 2020 edition of the Africa Women's Cup of Nations will surely take place with 12 teams and not eight as we had in past editions."

Original author: Samuel Ahmadu
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News of West Ham not having Jesse Lingard option isn't new - but is concerning

The club's former manager doesn't think the decision to replace Mauricio Pochettino with Jose Mourinho in north London has paid off

Tottenham and Arsenal will struggle to reach the top four next season, according to ex-Spurs manager Harry Redknapp, who says his former side have “gone backwards a million miles”.

Since reaching last season’s Champions League final, Spurs have suffered an extended downturn in form, sacked Mauricio Pochettino and now find themselves ninth in the Premier League with six games to play.

Performances have varied under Jose Mourinho, and Redknapp says the side are unrecognisable from the best days of Pochettino’s tenure.

“Tottenham have gone backwards a million miles,” Redknapp told TalkSPORT.

“You look at where they are now to where they were a couple of years ago, when Kyle Walker and Danny Rose were in form at full-back and Christian Eriksen was in great form, Mousa Dembele with him in midfield and Dele Alli was absolutely fantastic. They’re nowhere near that now.

“They finished above Liverpool two or three years ago when they finished second to Leicester, and suddenly Liverpool bought a couple of top players in, a great goalkeeper and a great centre-half and they’ve pushed on to become champions and Tottenham have gone exactly the opposite way.

“They got to the Champions League final last year, which was obviously a great achievement, but their league form was average for a long period. They averaged about a point a game for 25 games, which is relegation form. It hasn’t really improved.”

Tottenham are hoping that, with time to work with the squad and make the additions he sees fit, Mourinho can turn things around at the club, but Redknapp doesn’t think the decision to appoint him has paid off yet, and he also sees struggles ahead at neighbours Arsenal.

“They got rid of Poch, they brought in Jose and thought ‘He’s the man to get us into the top four’, and they need the Champions League, they’ve got an incredible stadium, the best training ground, everything’s in place,” he said. “But it hasn’t happened and it’s not going to happen.

“You look at them going forward, like Arsenal, are those two teams going to be in the top four next year?

“I see Man City and Liverpool as the top two, then you’ve got Man United and Chelsea, you’ve got teams emerging like Wolves.

“I don’t see it for them next year, it’s going to be tough again for the two clubs in north London.”

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'I really liked the mentality and desire' - Conte remains hopeful of Champions League progression for Inter

The Uruguayan forward was responsible for stopping a goal that could have sent the Black Stars into the mundial semis with his hands

Former Ghana defender Hans Sarpei says he can't forgive Uruguay forward Luis Suarez, 10 years after the Black Stars were likely denied a place at the 2010 World Cup semi-finals following his controversial handball.

The West African giants were making their first quarter-final appearance at the Mundial having reached the Round of 16 at their maiden event in 2006, where they lost to Brazil.

They had taken the lead at Soccer City on July 2, 2010, via Sulley Muntari, but Uruguay equalised thanks to Diego Forlan’s freekick.

In the dying minutes of extra-time, Ghana had an effort via Dominic Adiyiah from a John Paintsil freekick that was goal bound. However, Suarez used his hand to stop the ball from going in after goalkeeper Fernando Muslera was well beaten.

Suarez was rightly given his marching orders, but Asamoah Gyan missed the resultant penalty and Uruguay then triumphed 4-2 in the penalty shootout that followed.

It is a scar that still hunts Ghana today knowing they could have made history in becoming the first-ever African country to reach the World Cup semi-finals, after Cameroon and Senegal came close in 1990 and 2002, respectively.

"I can't forgive him [Suarez] because it was not an accident," Sarpei told BBC.

"He knows what he has done. We were crying and you see someone who has cheated us is celebrating. How can I forgive him? Never. Never ever."

Sarpei, who played at left-back that night, believes Ghana had it in them to see off Uruguay.

He also believed Gyan was going to convert his penalty, having scored twice already in the tournament from the spot, against Serbia and Australia in the group stage.

"On the way to the game against Uruguay, I think everybody knew we could beat them - I think the whole world was supporting us,” Sarpei continued.

"The way we play the game: we're playing on the front, we're attacking in front. We try to enjoy the game. When you see Ghana, it's like you're listening to music because the ball is flowing.

"I think everybody from our side was thinking 'yeah, we're going to the semi-final' because Asamoah Gyan had scored two penalty goals before and he made it look easy.

"I was standing there and for me, the ball was going into the net and we are going through to the next round.

"Then it hit the crossbar and my first thought was like, 'Is this real?' Really? The ball is not into the net? What is happening? What is the problem?'

"And then it was difficult. At this moment, when he didn't score and we had to go to the penalty shootout, the feeling was like, now it will be difficult to go to the next round."

Paintsil, who played at right-back that day, also spoke to the BBC, and said he is still hurt by Suarez’s action which he claims was not professional after the then-Ajax Amsterdam player was caught on camera jubilating after Gyan’s penalty miss.

"It still pains. I'm still feeling it anytime I think about it," the 39-year-old said.

"After the penalty was missed you came out and then celebrated like you're on top of the world by hurting people. At least be a professional, feel the pain. Just go to your dressing room and celebrate and then nobody will see it."

Suarez is seen as a hero for his action in his country Uruguay as they made it to the semis for the first time in 40 years. Paintsil, however, admits that no African player would gamble in the manner Suarez did.

"One has to do what one has to do to make his country proud and that's what he did to us," he continued.

"There's no African player that would have done that.

"Africans are more athletic. Even when the ball is on the other line, I would have tried to kick the ball, kung-fu style."

Original author: Kunle Fayiga
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Dallas, Nashville stalemate after major weather delay

The Tshwane giants have released three players after offloading Thabo Mnyamane, with the current season set to resume soon

SuperSport United have officially parted ways with attacking midfielder Thabo Qalinge.

The 28-year-old player failed to make an impact during his time with Matsatsantsa, having joined the club on a free transfer from Orlando Pirates at the beginning of the current season.

The Tshwane giants have since announced that Qalinge has left the club along with Thakasani Mbanjwa and Thato Lesoma.

SuperSport released the following statement on Friday evening confirming the moves.

"We would like to confirm the departure of Thabo Qalinge, Thakasani Mbanjwa and Thato Lesoma," a club statement read.

"We thank them for their contributions and wish them well with their future endeavours."

Qalinge made only five appearances across all competitions for Matsatsantsa before the current season was suspended indefinitely due to the coronavirus pandemic last March.

The former Mpumalanga Black Aces winger had signed a one-year deal with the Tshwane giants and the contract expired at the end of last month.

Lesoma and Mbanjwa, who are both promising goalkeepers, have left SuperSport without making a single appearance for the team this season.

Newly-appointed Matsatsantsa captain Ronwen Williams has been an ever-present for the team in both the PSL and cup competitions.

However, Mbanjwa has left the club having played one match for the team which was against Bloemfontein Celtic in the 2018 Nedbank Cup Round of 16 match.

The 24-year-old shot-stopper, who is a former South Africa under-23 international, joined coach Kaitano Tembo's side from Bidvest Wits ahead of the 2017/18 season.

Mbanjwa was hoping to establish himself at SuperSport having left the Clever Boys without making his competitive debut for the team.

While Lesoma played for Matsatsantsa's reserve side in the Multichoice Diski Challenge (MDC) before being promoted to the first team earlier this season.

The 21-year-old shot-stopper was nurtured in the University of Pretoria academy and he leaves the Tshwane giants without playing a single match for the first team.

Lesoma was part of the South Africa under-20 squad which took part in a Three-Nation tournament in Burton upon Trent, Staffordshire where they faced hosts England and Brazil in 2017.

He started both matches as Amajita, under the guidance of coach Helman Mkhalele, suffered a 4-0 defeat to Brazil, before they secured a 2-1 victory over England.

Original author: Austin Ditlhobolo
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How can Man Utd qualify for the Champions League?

The Dutch forward didn't think it was right that Harry Kane's equaliser was chalked off for handball after a video assistant review

Steven Bergwijn has hit out at the decision to disallow Harry Kane’s equaliser for Tottenham against Sheffield United on Thursday.

Moments after Sander Berge had opened the scoring with his first Premier League goal for the Blades, Kane thought he had levelled the scores only to see the goal ruled out by VAR. In the build-up to the goal, Lucas Moura had inadvertently brushed the ball with his arm as he fell to the floor.

Under the current handball rules, a goal cannot be given if the ball touches an attacker’s hand or arm in the build-up – a rule which is being forensically applied with the close-ups and slow-motion replays afforded by VAR.

"In my opinion it is a goal, [Lucas] can't put his hands anywhere," Bergwijn said. "They also pushed him in the back, so there are two things wrong.

"I don't understand [why a free-kick wasn't given afterwards], maybe it is because we played through but I think he has to give the goal.

“Where is he supposed to put his hands? It is a goal in my opinion."

Spurs boss Jose Mourinho said in his press conference that he thought his side had been affected by the decision, but Bergwijn didn’t agree.

"I think it did affect them, clearly it did,” Mourinho said. “I think the team was playing well in the first half in spite of us not creating many chances, but we were very much in control.

"They scored the goal, the team reacted immediately. We scored and then I think the team felt it too much and when you compete you have to be ready for unlucky situations, ready for a big mistake that your keeper makes, ready for the penalty that some guy misses.”

Bergwijn – speaking at the same time, rather than reacting to Mourinho’s comments – had a different view.

"No, I don't think like this. It is mixed feelings, but I don't think it affected the players," he said. "When you concede a goal and equalise so quickly it is a good feeling, but it is disallowed, it's really mixed feelings."

Sheffield United jumped above Tottenham with their victory, with Spurs now sitting ninth in the Premier League with six games to play.

"We have to look game to game and we will see," Bergwijn added. "We have to win every game. We have to forget this game now and look forward. Yeah, it was a bad result today, but we have to go on."

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Transfer Talk: Barcelona eye Manchester City's Gundogan to mentor Gavi, Pedri

The 23-year-old, now at Wigan Athletic in the Championship, was only a youngster at the time and says the Chelsea midfielder is as humble as they come

Former Leicester defender Cedric Kipre says N’Golo Kante let him and his brother stay with him for a month when he had an issue with his apartment.

Kipre joined the Foxes from Paris Saint-Germain in 2014 as a teenager, a year before fellow Frenchman Kante arrived from Caen.

He featured for the club’s youth sides without ever breaking into the first team but, when he had problems in his personal life, it was Kante who stepped in to help.

“I lived at N’Golo’s house for a month when I was at Leicester,” Kipre told Goal. “I had a problem with my apartment and he hosted my brother and me. Not everyone would have done it, and it was really nice of him.

“Today, I'm proud to have met someone like him. There is nobody more humble than N'Golo."

Kipre spent time out on loan in 2015 before moving on permanently to Motherwell in 2017, but he was part of the Leicester set-up when they won the Premier League in 2016, sometimes training with Claudio Ranieri’s first team.

"It was unbelievable,” he said. “Something crazy. The atmosphere was fantastic! Even the players hadn't seen it coming.

“It was really beautiful. The day of the title, I was in the stadium behind the substitutes' bench. I was filming everything with my phone, I wanted to keep memories."

Born in Paris, Kipre came through the youth academy at PSG and admits it was painful to have to leave the club as a youngster.

"I love this club and when I didn’t return to the academy and I saw everyone returning, it hurt me,” he said.

“I saw all my friends leave. Moussa (Dembele), Dylan Batubinsika, James (Lea Siliki), but now, when I have time, I watch PSG games. They are the club of my heart, the club of my whole family. I support them like crazy!”

After leaving Paris, Kipre went to Leicester’s youth team before moving on to Motherwell in the Scottish Premiership. He impressed in his single season north of the border, and returned to English football in August 2018 in a £1 million ($1.25m) move to Wigan Athletic of the Championship.

Original author: Benjamin Quarez
  97 Hits

Women’s Champions League: Barcelona’s Oshoala makes history in Chelsea decimation

The Nigerian forward is reported to be close to agreeing a deal with the Partenopei

Napoli manager Gennaro Gattuso has distanced himself from the speculation that Victor Osimhen is close to joining the club, simply saying he remains a Lille player.

The 21-year-old Nigerian has been linked with a move to the San Paolo after a breakout season in France where he scored 18 competitive goals in 38 appearances.

Osimhen swept home a couple of accolades for his impressive feats with Lille, which included being crowned the club’s player of the season and the Marc-Vivien Foe award as the best African player in Ligue 1.

Osimhen is the second Nigerian to win the Foe award after former goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama who played for Lille between 2011 and 2018.

"He [Osimhen] is currently a Lille player. I cannot comment,” Gattuso told the press after Napoli’s 2-0 defeat by high-flying Atalanta.

Gattuso insisted that the Partenopei will spend a little in the transfer market, but it must be a player with quantity.

“We will do little on the market, 70-80% [of players] will remain and whoever arrives will have to give us quality and quantity," the former Sion manager stated.

 “For this, we must raise the bar because many will remain and we must improve.”

Osimhen’s agent, Osita Okolo, has, however, confirmed that the former Wolfsburg man player has had contact with Gattuso and club president Aurelio De Laurentiis and admitted he likes the Naples environment.

"Napoli's interest is important. De Laurentiis and the manager [Gattuso] really like Victor. There have already been several contacts,” Okolo told TuttoMercato.

“Victor likes Naples, a fantastic city, and obviously he also likes Napoli as a team. The interest of a big Italian [club] personally does not surprise me considering how well he did with Lille."

Osimhen’s potential arrival could fill a void should Arkadiusz Milik, who is reportedly wanted by Juventus and Tottenham Hotspur, depart the club.

Napoli’s defeat at Atalanta ended their four-game winning streak in all competitions, which included lifting the Coppa Italia against Juventus via penalties.

The Campania capital outfit remains in sixth spot on the table which is the final Europa League qualification berth, but they are under pressure from the likes of AC Milan and Hellas Verona, just behind them on the table.

They will hope to get back to winning ways when they host Roma on Sunday at the San Paolo.

 

Original author: Kunle Fayiga
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Zidane denies Real Madrid exit reports - 'How could I tell the players I'm leaving now?'

The 19-year-old has agreed to fresh terms exactly a year after making the switch from Brazil to north London

Arsenal youngster Gabriel Martinelli has signed a new long-term contract with the Gunners.

The 19-year-old Brazilian forward put pen to paper on his new deal exactly one year after he joined the club.

Mikel Arteta told the club's official website: "I am very happy that Gabi has signed a new contract with us.

"He is a very talented young player and he has impressed us with his performances, attitude and work-rate.

"We are looking forward to getting him back to full fitness and to watching his development at our club."

Martinelli has been one of the biggest positives of a difficult season for Arsenal, and his new deal will no doubt come as a boost to the club.

With the forward signing on just days after fellow youngster Bukayo Saka agreed to fresh terms, there is a feeling that the club's players are buying into Arteta's rebuilding project at the Emirates Stadium.

While the Gunners sit eighth in the Premier League, Martinelli has become the first teenager to score 10 goals in a season for the club since Nicolas Anelka back in 1998-99.

A relative unknown when he arrived from Brazilian minnows Ituano, he now looks like one of English football's most exciting young talents.

Among his 10 goals to date are a double against Liverpool at Anfield in the Carabao Cup, and one particularly memorable solo goal in the 2-2 Premier League draw at Chelsea back in January.

The forward isn't expected to play any further part in the 2019-20 season due to a knee injury, but hopes are high for the future.

"I want to win the Champions League and lots of domestic titles to make Arsenal’s fans very happy," Martinelli told FourFourTwo back in March.

"They deserve the best – not only the supporters but all of the club’s staff. I’d like to give back to the club after everything they’ve done for me so far and, as a result, become a Gunners legend."

With Arteta facing a huge rebuilding job at the club, Arsenal will be expecting a busy few months ahead.

They are hoping to strike a deal with Real Madrid to sign on-loan midfielder Dani Ceballos on a permanent deal, though there is still uncertainty surrounding Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's future at the club.

There is also mounting speculation of a move for Atletico Madrid midfielder Thomas Partey, but Arteta refused to comment on such talk in a recent press conference.

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Kaizer Chiefs did enough to beat Horoya AC - Hunt

The 22-year-old Anglo-Congolese forward moves back to France having spent time at Dijon last season

Montpellier have announced the arrival of Stephy Mavididi who joined from Juventus in a deal worth up to €6.3 million.

The Arsenal academy graduate had spent time on loan with Dijon last season, scoring eight goals in 30 competitive games as they finished in 16th place, seven points clear of relegation.

The Owls had to option to purchase Mavididi for €5 million at the end of his loan, however, the Anglo-Congolese striker was not content to continue life at the Stade Gaston Gerard.

Mavididi has failed to break into the Juventus first team since arriving from Arsenal in 2018, hence it was only logical that he would be either be sent out on loan again or sold permanently.

The Bianconeri are currently top the Serie A, four points clear of Lazio.

“Juventus Football Club S.p.A. announces that it has reached an agreement with the company S.A.S. Montpellier Herault SC for the definitive sale of the right to sports services by the footballer Stephy Alvaro Mavididi against a consideration of €6.3 million, payable in three financial years,” read a statement on the club website.

Montpellier, on their part, have released their own statement, confirming Mavididi’s arrival via their chairman Laurent Nicollin.

Mavididi will slug it out with forwards Andy Delort, an Africa Cup of Nations winner with Algeria, and Gaetan Laborde, who both had a hand in a combined 23 Ligue 1 goals last season.

“We are very pleased that Stephy has chosen Montpellier to continue to his progress,” Nicollin said on the club website.

“It’s satisfying to recruit the additional high-level striker that the coach [Michel Der Zakarian] wanted. I hope our duo of strikers [Delort and Laborde] will therefore become a beautiful trio. After that, the coach has to find the right balance to play one, the other or the three together.

“What is certain is that his arrival gives additional quality and potential to the team.”

Mavididi on his part stated: “I am very happy to join Montpellier. It’s a great opportunity for me. I can't wait to get started in my new colours."

Montpellier finished the 2019/20 Ligue 1 season in eighth place with 40 points, nine points shy of Europa League qualification.

Original author: Kunle Fayiga
  97 Hits

Experienced goalkeeper Odhiambo among 14 released by Western Stima

The Premier League side are active behind-the-scenes as football continues, with restrictions easing despite the continuing coronavirus pandemic

Chelsea have re-opened talks to keep Willian after he rejected a contract offer from an unnamed Chinese club, but remain unwilling to offer more than a two-year contract.

The 31-year-old has already publicly voiced his desire for a three-year deal at Chelsea and if he leaves Stamford Bridge he will opt to stay in England, preferably with a big London club.

Frank Lampard's side are aware of interest from Arsenal and Tottenham and the Blues boss is keen to keep his winger away from his rivals, amid a spell of good form.

Chelsea previously only offered one-year deals to over-30 players but they have since re-evaluated their strategy that ran between 2011 and 2018.

After signing Olivier Giroud from Arsenal in 2018, they broke their one-year contract policy and proceeded to offer David Luiz a two-year deal before selling him to Arsenal for £8 million last summer.

Indeed, Willian's performances on the pitch have given Chelsea little reason to withdraw from talks as he chases his best goal-scoring season of 13 with his ninth and tenth goals of the season in the defeat to West Ham.

His good run of form comes after Chelsea agreed to a deal to extend his stay at Chelsea until the end of the season , along with Pedro, just hours before the deadline from the Premier League.

However, Pedro will leave upon the completion of the season with Roma having agreed on a pre-contract for the former Barcelona winger.

Chelsea's interest in keeping Willian comes as high-profile arrivals are soon to join up at Stamford Bridge with a £47.5 million deal already agreed for RB Leipzig's Timo Werner and the £37m signing of Ajax's Hakim Ziyech.

Along with these two, Chelsea are determined to do further transfer business and Leicester City's Ben Chilwell leads their priority list with Bayer Leverkusen's Kai Havertz and West Ham's Declan Rice also being considered.

With these signings will come player sales and interest is ramping up for several Blues stars including Emerson Palmieri, who has had further contact from Internazionale recently. Juventus and Napoli are also monitoring his situation.

Lampard refused to add further fuel to the fire when questioned about Emerson ahead of his side's upcoming match against Watford on Saturday night.

"I'm not aware of the talks, what I am doing is focusing on the team and the squad day to day," Lampard said at his press conference on Zoom. "I don't have any real conversations about the transfer window, whether it's about who we might bring in or who might leave the club.

"Those are obviously questions we do have to answer come the end of the season when the window opens, but I certainly don't want to be swayed by rumour or gossip, and I'm not involved in it so we'll keep working."

Original author: Nizaar Kinsella
  250 Hits

Arsenal Transfer Latest on Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Willian & Philippe Coutinho

Luc Eymael explains to Goal why he will not have the two players in the squad to play two matches in Mwanza

Young Africans (Yanga SC) have landed safely in Mwanza in readiness for their two Mainland Premier League matches this weekend.

However, the Jangwani Street-based giants arrived without two of their key players – captain Papy Tshishimbi and forward Bernard Morrison – for various reasons, ahead of their two matches against Biashara United and Kagera Sugar.

Goal understands Tshishimbi is yet to recover fully from an injury that has kept him out of action since the top-flight resumed in June 13 while Morrison did not show up yet again for the trip despite training with the side on Thursday.

When reached for comment, Yanga coach Luc Eymael revealed to Goal Morrison did not show up as the team prepared to board the plane to Mwanza and has not communicated the reason for his absence while Tshishimbi was left out because of a nagging knee injury.

“[Papy] is not able to play and he didn’t travel because he is still injured and might miss two or three matches again but Morrison did not travel with us despite assuring me he was to come, we did not see him at the airport and I don’t know what the problem could be again,” Eymael told Goal from Mwanza.

“Morrison was in training on Thursday he even assured me he would travel with the team but I don’t know what happened, I have not seen him and he was not in the travelling squad.”

On why Tshishimbi was left behind, Eymael said: “I am not a doctor, I am not a magician you know, I am not doing juju like you guys and I am not God, unfortunately, to know when he will recover, we have to wait.

“I am sure [Tshishimbi] will even miss the FA Cup semi-final clash against Simba SC, I am sure he will not play, he will not be available, so I am not looking at him to help us because I know he will not be fit.”

Yanga will be keen to haul six points from their two matches as they strive to finish second on the 20-team league table.

“Our intentions are very clear, we want to finish second behind Simba and we are looking at taking home six points.” Eymael continued.

“The problem now we are going to play in a very bad pitch, I don’t like the pitch, and I know my players will struggle to pass the ball, but let us wait and see, because we must fight for the points.”

Yanga are second on 60 points, while Simba, who have already been crowned champions, are top on 79 points and Azam FC are third with 59 points.

Original author: Dennis Mabuka
  235 Hits

Does Chelsea win over BVB in Champions League mark turnaround for Potter?

The Morocco international has thanked the Blancos after ending his 14-year stay at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu

Achraf Hakimi has sent a heartfelt message to Real Madrid after completing his move to Serie A side Inter Milan on Thursday.

The Morocco international sealed a five-year deal worth €40 million with the San Siro outfit to end his 14-year stay at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu.  

Hakimi has been with the Spanish giants since 2006 where he learnt his trade and quickly rose through the ranks, earning promotion to the senior team in 2016, and played his first game for the side against Paris Saint-Germain.

The 21-year-old was then promoted to the first team in 2017 and made his La Liga debut against Espanyol in a home game.

The young defender made only nine league appearances for Real as he was behind Dani Carvajal and Nacho in the pecking order.

His desire to enjoy more playing time and garner experience led him to secure a two-year loan move to the Black and Yellows and shone during his time with the German side.

After the expiration of his temporary deal with BVB, it was suggested the wing-back would return to Madrid to fight for a place in Zinedine Zidane’s team before completing his switch to Inter.

Hakimi has taken time to appreciate Real for the opportunity afforded him at the club and also thanked their fans for their support.

"Real Madrid is my home, I was raised and educated to become the person I am,” Hakimi posted on Instagram.

"Thank you to all the club workers, to my coaches and to all my teammates who accompanied me on this beautiful stage of my life.

“Finally, I would like to thank all the Madridistas who supported me and who will continue to always support the team. Thank you very much, Real. Hala Madrid!"

Notwithstanding his limited playing time at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu, the two-time Caf Youth Player of the Year won one Champions League title and a Club World Cup trophy with the Spanish side before his departure.

Hakimi will be expected to flourish in Antonio Conte's preferred 3-5-2 formation at San Siro and will hope to help them compete for the league title in the 2020-21 season.

 

Original author: Gbenga Adewoye
  228 Hits

Slimani on target as Lyon give up two-goal lead in defeat to Lille

The Crystal Palace forward talks about the secret behind his outstanding showing this term

Crystal Palace striker Jordan Ayew has revealed the influence of his legendary footballing father and 1993 Uefa Champions League winner Abedi Pele has helped him take his game to the next level this season.

Arguably in the form of his life, Jordan has notched nine Premier League goal for the Eagles do far this term, standing as the club's top scorer.

He is only three strikes shy of equalling his all-time best season haul of 12 goals, a feat he reached while playing for French side Lorient in 2014-15.

“My dad has given us so much, in everything, and not only to me, to the whole family," Ayew told Sky Sports.

"The only way we can say thank you is to perform week in, week out for him to be proud and that's what we try to do.

"He doesn't watch the games live because he's a bit too anxious, so they record them and he watches them afterwards.

"Then, when he's finished, he briefs me a bit. If I've not done well, he tells me I've not done well. And if I have done well, he still tells me I've not done well.

"It drives me. I can't give my dad enough praise, really. He's unbelievable and I'm lucky to have a father who knows football."

Ayew's exploit this season has seen him overtake former Leeds United star Anthony Yeboah as the all-time top-scoring Ghanaian in Premier League history with 25 accumulated goals.

"Tony Yeboah is massive, maybe the best striker of all-time in Ghana, so to beat his total and get to 25 goals in the Premier League is a great achievement for me and my family," the 28-year-old added.

“I’ve always thought that I was a good finisher, but sometimes you just need a bit of luck.

“This year, I’ve had quite a bit of luck, but luck doesn’t just come like that, you need to provoke it. I’ve been working really, really hard on that but there’s still room for improvement."

Ayew is also on the brink of breaking another record, this time at Palace, with seven more matches to the end of the season.

The attacker's goals so far have won Palace 14 points this term, leaving him just one point behind Andrew Johnson’s contribution in 2004-05 as no single player has collected the Eagles more points in Premier League history.

Ayew joined Palace in January 2019 for a half-season loan stint from Swansea. Despite a frustrating spell which yielded only one league goal, the striker was signed in a permanent deal at the end of the season.
 

Original author: Prince Narkortu Teye
  95 Hits

Transfer news and rumours LIVE: Chelsea take lead in Varane race

The teenager is reportedly on the brink of a move to the Bundesliga side, but his current boss says there is "nothing concrete" to announce

Pep Clotet expects Birmingham City to receive big money for Jude Bellingham but denied a deal with Borussia Dortmund has already been agreed.

It was reported on Friday that Dortmund have beaten off competition from the likes of Manchester United to sign the 17-year-old midfielder on a five-year deal.

Championship side Birmingham are said to be set to be paid at least £20 million ($25m) for the England youth international.

Blues head coach Clotet stressed that an agreement has not been reached, but suggested it was only a matter of time before the club cash in on the teenager.

"I have not looked into the situation at all as I am only allowed to comment on things that are not speculation," said Clotet, who will leave his role at the end of the season.

"It is up to the club and the player to decide, basically for the club to decide what to do with their assets. I am just hoping that the value, according to what he has achieved and his future potential, is rich.

"That's what I hope because he is one of the youngest players who has played so many games in the Championship for his age, on the quality of his play, in very different positions.

"He has massive future value. Of course I am expecting that possibly he will be the most valuable player I have ever developed - and I have developed a lot.

"I am expecting it to be a really good bond financially for the club but of course that is a side of the business that is not my side.

"There is no update, I know there has been a lot of speculation lately – but there is nothing.

"We are focused, Jude is our player, he is very determined to play with us tomorrow [at Fulham on Saturday] and as far as I am aware and what I see it just shows how good professionally he is.

"He just blocks everything around that and is focusing a lot on his performances and playing tomorrow.  At the moment there is nothing concrete."

Original author: Peter Thompson
  92 Hits

'It happened overnight' - Wigan defender Kipre admits shock and feeling of betrayal over administration

The 23-year-old defender says the Latics will keep fighting but a points deduction leaves them staring relegation in the face

Wigan defender Cedric Kipre says there is a feeling of betrayal at the Championship club after they were placed into administration this week.

The 2013 FA Cup winners, currently 14th in the second tier, are facing a 12-point deduction from the Football Association.

The Latics sit seven points clear of the drop zone with six games to play. If Wigan avoid relegation, the deduction will be applied to the final table at the end of the season but if they go down regardless, it will be applied next season instead.

Wigan have been on good form since returning from the coronavirus-enforced break, winning all three of their matches so far.

“It's a little bit complicated,” Kipre admitted to Goal.

“On Tuesday night, we came out of a big match against Stoke [which they won 3-0], and the next day we heard the news.

“It's tough, especially since we were in a good spell. We haven't lost since February 8, and here we are, told that we will be losing 12 points at the end of the season.

“It's hard to swallow, but we are focused on the pitch, hoping the leaders find a solution.”

If the season ended today, Wigan would drop from their healthy mid-table position to dead last in the Championship.

“Of course it is unfair,” Kipre said.

“The owners decided to leave Wigan without explaining the reasons. We were not aware of their departure, and according to what the directors of the club told us, it happened overnight. They themselves did not understand.”

Asked if there was a feeling of betrayal, Kipre replied: “Completely!

“With our salaries, we still do not know what will happen.

“Their goal is to find a buyer as quickly as possible so that we can at least be paid until the end of the season.

“We hope to receive at least half of our pay. That would be good. If not, it will be complicated.

“I try to be positive. There is always hope. We have six games left. If we get five or six wins, it could be enough for us.”

Wigan face a challenge in their next fixture, as they travel to face promotion-chasing Brentford on Saturday.

Original author: Benjamin Quarez
  290 Hits

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