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Barca beat Galatasaray to book Europa last-8 spot

The Algeria international accentuated his steadiness in the last five seasons that to his double in the Citizens’ whitewash of the Clarets

Riyad Mahrez has now scored at least ten goals across all competitions in five successive seasons having found the net twice in Manchester City’s 5-0 defeat of Burnley on Monday night.

2014-15 was the last time he failed to reach that mark – accounting for just four league goals in 30 appearances.

The 29-year-old found the net twice at the Etihad Stadium as the Citizens held firm to the second spot in the English topflight log – a feat that ended his wait for a goal in the competition since January 2020.

With that, he has now scored nine Premier League goals so far including one each in the Champions League and the English Football League Cup to bring his tally this season to 11 goals.

Phil Foden handed Pep Guardiola’s men a 22nd minute lead before he Algeria international made it two in the 43rd minute.

He profited from a brilliant pass from Fernandinho before firing home across goalkeeper Nick Pope after disturbing Charlie Taylor.

Two minutes later, Mahrez made it three from the penalty spot after a VAR review showed Ben Mee was slightly late into his challenge on Sergio Aguero.

Aguero limped out of the action as a result of that incident but it did nothing to halt City's momentum, with Foden once again instrumental in the 51st minute – freeing Bernardo Silva with a nice reverse pass. David Silva was the beneficiary among those queueing up to score before the youngster completed his double on an impressive night.

After putting in a brilliant shift, he was replaced by Kevin De Bruyne in the 61st minute by manager Guardiola.

Mahrez joined Leicester from Le Havre in January 2014 and helped them to a first-place finish in the Championship.

Two years later, he was named PFA Player of the Year after scoring 17 goals and setting up a further 10 as they won the Premier League title.

The 2016 African Player of the Year winner joined the Manchester-based outfit for £60 million (€68m/$80m) on a five-year deal on July 10, 2018.

Since joining the Etihad Stadium outfit, he has won one Premier League title, one FA Cup, one Community Shield and two English Football League Cup diadems.

Manchester City are on the road at Chelsea on Thursday, when Burnley host Watford.

Original author: Shina Oludare
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Barca's Dest off injured ahead of USMNT WCQs

The Argentine is set for tests on a knee injury after limping out of Man City's 5-0 victory over Burnley

Pep Guardiola fears that Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero may miss the rest of the season after he limped out of the 5-0 victory over Burnley with a knee injury.

Aguero was caught just before half-time by Burnley captain Ben Mee but Guardiola revealed that he has been struggling with a knee problem since returning from lockdown.

The 32-year-old striker will go for tests on Tuesday but the City boss confirmed he will be miss the next few games but is worried he could be out for the rest of the campaign, including the end-of-season Champions League tournament in Lisbon.

"It doesn’t look good. We will see tomorrow exactly what he has but it doesn't look good for the season," Guardiola said in his virtual post-match press conference.

"He was struggling the last month with a problem in his knee and now he felt something but it doesn’t look good. 

"The doctor says it will take time. A few games [out] for sure but maybe tomorrow the tests he will get good news. We will see."

Guardiola  said before the beginning of Project Restart that he was worried about the potential of injuries because of clubs' lack of preparation.

City got through the first game against Arsenal, although the visitors suffered setbacks to Granit Xhaka and Pablo Mari.

Foden, who scored twice in the win over Burnley, also had ice strapped to his left thigh after being substituted but said he had taken a kick to his leg. Guardiola praised the 20-year-old's performance but again challenged him to get even better.

"When Phil plays, he’s never played badly," the City boss said. "Especially his behaviour and his attitude. It doesn’t matter if he plays or doesn’t play, he loves to play football.

"You can see on his Instagram, when he is on a day off he is with his friends with the ball. He loves being the first out for a training session with the ball, he loves to play and every time he has played since he was promoted to play with us, he has always been a high level. 

"But we cannot forget he is 19 or 20 and he has to improve. He will be an important player for our next decade at this club. The minutes he has, he deserves it."

Original author: Jonathan Smith
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Everton vs Newcastle delayed by fan protest

The Senegalese forward hit the back of net with his team and opponents getting a player sent off

Papiss Cisse netted his 17th Turkish Super Lig goal of the season as Alanyaspor played out a 2-2-2 draw with Trabzonspor, both teams getting a man sent off.

Erol Bulut’s team came into the match on the back of a 4-0 win over Antalyaspor, Cisse bagging a hat-trick.

Trabzonspor took the lead this time through Abdulkadir Omur in the seventh minute of play with the assist coming from Alexander Sorloth.

Cisse went on to equalise for Alanyaspor in added time of the first half, connecting with Fabrice N’Sakala’s cross and firing the ball in.

The visitors restored their lead six minutes after the restart with Omur turning provider for Filip Novak before Tasos Bakasetas made it 2-2 in the 90th minute.

The game was noteworthy for Trabzonspor’s Majid Hosseini seeing a straight red card for a foul in the 79th minute while DR Congo left-back N’Sakala got his own marching orders four minutes later for a second booking.

Cisse played for the entire duration of the match and produced a total of three shots, his goal being the only one target while he won eight of 14 total duels.

The 35-year old Senegalese is the second-highest goalscorer in the Super Lig this season, behind Sorloth who has 19 goals.

The former Newcastle United man has been very agile this term as he has featured 26 times in the top-flight, completing 90 minutes on 21 occasions, coming off the bench twice and being an unused substitute just once.

Cisse’s fine goalscoring form saw him score in four consecutive matches at the start of the season all of them ending in victories against Kayserispor, Kasimpasa, Yeni Malatyaspor and at home to giants Fenerbahce where he scored a brace in a 3-1 win.

He then went on a six-game scoring spree between December 23, 2019 and February 8, 2020 with all the games ending in wins for Alanyaspor bar the return fixture away to Fenerbahce ending in a 1-1 draw.

Alanyaspor are a point ahead and place above Fener on the log and still have a realistic chance of European qualification with six points separating them and Galatasaray after 28 games.

They travel next to the Gursel Aksel Stadium to tackle Goztepe.

Original author: Kunle Fayiga
  157 Hits

Mariel Duayhe: The story behind one of Mexico’s most revolutionary player agents

The 29-year-old becomes the second Premier Soccer League player to test positive for Covid-19

Bloemfontein Celtic midfielder Given Mashikinya has been confirmed to have contracted the coronavirus.

Mashikinya becomes the second known Premier Soccer League (PSL) player to test positive for Covid-19 and the third South African footballer to contract the virus.

"Bloemfontein Celtic can confirm that after we have conducted Covid-19 tests on Friday 19, June 2020 one player [Given Mashikinya] has tested positive‚” Bloemfontein Celtic said in a statement.

“The player was and still is asymptomatic and is currently in isolation for the next 14 days. In accordance with relevant protocols‚ NHI has been notified of the case by the club.

“We urge everybody to continue practising safe and healthy measures to contain and stop the spread of the virus.”

Portugal-based Sphephelo Sithole was the first South African player recorded to be infected with the coronavirus in early May before Orlando Pirates’ Ben Motshwari also tested positive a few days later. Both players have since recovered.

PSL clubs have begun testing their players and staff as they prepare to return to training ahead of a possible restart of the 2019/20 season.

Sport24 has reported that three Stellenbosch staff members tested positive for the virus.

The government is yet to give a go-ahead for the resumption of football which would be passed if football authorities convince the Ministry of Sports that there are strict coronavirus health and safety protocols in place.

Original author: Michael Madyira
  98 Hits

Rooney appointed as D.C. United boss

Juventus bounced back from their Coppa Italia final defeat as they resumed their Serie A campaign with a routine win over Bologna.

Cristiano Ronaldo was on target as Juventus marked their return to Serie A action with a 2-0 win over Bologna at Stadio Renato Dall'Ara on Monday.

Maurizio Sarri's side shrugged off the disappointment of their Coppa Italia final defeat to Napoli last week, Ronaldo setting them on their way from the penalty spot in the 23rd minute in their first top-flight game since March 8.

Dybala added a superb second before half-time, whipping into the top corner from outside the penalty area, while Ronaldo and Federico Bernardeschi came close to adding further goals after the interval before Danilo was sent off in stoppage time.

The result moves the reigning champions four points clear of Lazio at the Serie A summit, although Simone Inzaghi's side will have the chance to cut the gap back to one point when they travel to Atalanta on Wednesday.

Juve started on the front foot, with Ronaldo forcing Lukasz Skorupski into a smart stop inside the opening 10 minutes.

The forward got the better of the Bologna goalkeeper midway through the opening period, though, slotting down the middle from the penalty spot after a VAR review deemed that Stefano Denswil pulled Matthijs de Ligt's shirt from a corner.

The visitors doubled their advantage in sumptuous style nine minutes before the break, Dybala sweeping into the top corner from 20 yards after a superb backheeled flick by Bernardeschi.

Ronaldo prodded wide shortly after the restart when clean through, while Bernardeschi crashed a 20-yard effort against the post moments later.

Juve were content to play out the second half at a pedestrian pace, though a Ronaldo effort fizzed past the post.

Ronaldo then saw a late strike ruled out for offside, while substitute Danilo received his marching orders in stoppage time after picking up a second booking for a foul on Musa Juwara.

 

What does it mean? Bianconeri back to their best

Juve had failed to score in both of their Coppa Italia matches since returning to action following the lengthy absence caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

They were back to their ruthless best against Sinisa Mihajlovic's side, however, putting the game to bed by half-time thanks to Ronaldo and a sublime strike from Dybala.

Dybala too hot to handle

The Argentina international was a handful for the Bologna defence throughout, bamboozling them with incisive movement and an array of smart touches. His eighth league goal of the season was one to savour.

Bologna rue Denswil's lapse

The hosts' hard work keeping Juve at bay was undone by a moment of madness from Denswil. His tug on De Ligt's shirt was unnecessary and proved costly when Ronaldo put away the penalty.

Key Opta Facts

- Juventus have won 13 of their last 14 encounters against Bologna in Serie A (D1), keeping nine clean sheet in this run.

- Bologna have conceded for 22 consecutive games in the top flight for the first time in their history.

- Dybala and Ronaldo have played 68 games together in all competitions: however this is only the third time they have scored in the same match (previously v Frosinone in February 2019 and v Sampdoria in December 2019).

- Ronaldo is now the leading Portuguese goal scorer in Serie A (43 goals), overtaking Rui Costa.

What's next?

Sarri's side host struggling Lecce on Friday, while Bologna travel to Sampdoria on Sunday.

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Germany 2-0 Spain: Player ratings as Germany take top spot in group of death

La Viola could make a move for the PSG skipper after it was confirmed that he would be calling time on a trophy-laden career at Parc des Princes

Fiorentina would be interested in bringing outgoing Paris Saint-Germain captain Thiago Silva from Ligue 1 to Serie A next season following the confirmation that the seasoned Brazilian would leave the French champions, the club's general director Joe Barone has confirmed.

The veteran defender is set to call time on a trophy-laden spell at Parc des Princes, having arrived eight years ago in 2012 from AC Milan.

PSG director Leonardo confirmed earlier this month that the 35-year-old, along with Edinson Cavani, woukd be drawing a line under their career in the French capital at the close of the club's immediate fixture list, as they prepare to return to Champions League action following the curtailment of their domestic campaign.

Fiorentina, who narrowly avoided relegation to Serie B last season, bolstered their ranks ahead of the current campaign with the acquisition of Bayern Munich and France veteran Franck Ribery but have been unable to escape being pulled towards another scrap near the bottom of the table once more.

Speaking ahead of the club's return to Serie A against Brescia, Barone admitted that the club were viewing Silva as a potential target ahead of the 2020-21 season, hailing him as a player of the highest level - but stressing that the club were focused on ensuring their top-flight status in the immediate weeks.

"He is one of many names that are speculated in the papers," he told Sky Sport Italia. "We are working every day to look at the various names that come across our desk.

"But at the moment we have a lot of matches to play, then we'll see what the transfer market brings. He is a very well-known player of a high level [but] that is all at the moment."

In his near-decade-long spell at PSG, Silva has won at least one domestic honour every season, with seven Ligue 1 crowns, four consecutive Coupe de France honours, five Coupe de la Ligue victories and another five Trophee des Champions.

During that same period, he enjoyed further international success with Brazil, winning the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup and 2019 Copa America, as well as being named to two consecutive All-Star Teams at the FIFA World Cups in 2014 and 2018 for his performances.

However, he has been unable to help PSG break their European deadlock to date, having only reached the quarter-finals during his spell with the club as Champions League success has continued to elude them.

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USMNT set to play Germany and Ghana in October international friendlies

The Harambee Stars winger got some playing time as the Royals cruised to a victory in a build-up played at Bearwood Park

Kenya’a Ayub Timbe returned to Reading FC's starting XI as they battled to edge out Oxford United 2-1 at a baking hot Bearwood Park on Monday.

Timbe, who signed for The Royals from Beijing Renhe in China, was among the players who did not play any part as Reading drew 1-1 against Stoke City in an English Championship match staged on Saturday.

Coach Mark Bowen decided to field the entire team that missed the clash against Stoke, with Timbe getting another chance to impress ahead of their next league match.

Before the match kicked-off, both sets of players and staff observed a minute’s silence to pay their respects to the victims of Saturday evening’s tragic events in Forbury Gardens.

Reading were the best side in the opening stages as Andy Rinomhota forced the keeper into a fine save with his legs soon after, dribbling between defenders before getting a shot away.

Sam Baldock also had a chance to score when he angled his effort towards goal but the Oxford keeper was able to tip it over the bar.

The Royals continued to make the pace; Masika struck a fearsome effort that was tipped over, then Baldock slid onto a low ball into the middle only for the keeper to come off his line and smother his toe-poked effort.

The team headed into the half-time break tied at 0-0 but it was Oxford who took the lead when Liverpool loanee Ben Woodburn, drilled low through a crowd and into the bottom right corner after a well-taken corner kick.

However, the Royals drew level with McCleary when his deflected cross was bundled over the line by the arriving Charlie Adam on the edge of the six-yard box.

After a flurry of chances, Reading took the lead through substitute Danny Loader - a defensive miscalculation allowed Felipe Araruna’s forward ball to float into the path of the Royals forward who got a toe to the ball before the goalkeeper could come and thwart the attack.

Before the friendly, Timbe had also featured in two other matches against Chelsea and when Reading defeated Portsmouth 3-1 at Madejski Stadium.

Reading will next face Derby County on Saturday.

Original author: Dennis Mabuka
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Barcelona clear faves for Champions League final, but Wolfsburg can play spoiler

Samu Castillejo, Giacomo Bonaventura, Ante Rebic and Rafael Leao were on target in Milan's 4-1 win over Lecce on Monday.

Milan marked their return to Serie A action with an eventually comfortable 4-1 win over Lecce at the Via del Mare on Monday.

Samu Castillejo put the Rossoneri ahead in the 26th minute but Lecce equalised through Marco Mancosu's penalty after Matteo Gabbia fouled fellow substitute Khouma Babacar.

However, Giacomo Bonaventura and Ante Rebic, who was sent off in the Coppa Italia semi-final exit at the hands of Juventus on June 12, struck in the next three minutes to put Milan out of reach.

Substitute Rafael Leao put the result beyond doubt in the 72nd minute as the Rossoneri returned to seventh after Hellas Verona and Parma moved above them at the weekend.

Milan found Lecce goalkeeper Gabriel in good form during the opening 25 minutes, the Brazilian denying Bonaventura, Castillejo and Theo Hernandez.

There was little Gabriel could do when Castillejo instinctively steered Hakan Calhanoglu's drilled, low cross into the bottom-left corner for his first Serie A goal since April 2019, though.

Lecce were allowed back into the game and Biagio Meccariello had a goal ruled out for a narrow offside.

Babacar replaced Gianluca Lapadula for the second half and he won a penalty off Gabbia - a first-half replacement for the injured Simon Kjaer - that Mancosu coolly converted in the 54th minute.

Milan regained their advantage just 63 seconds later when Gabriel parried Calhanoglu's shot straight to Bonaventura, who slotted home on the follow-up.

The Rossoneri increased their lead with a swift break from a Lecce corner in the 57th minute, Rebic latching onto Calhanoglu's pass and beating Gabriel.

Leao was sent on for Rebic in the 68th minute and headed home a cross from Andrea Conti to cap a resounding win for Milan.

 

What does it mean? Milan find goals from multiple men

Stefano Pioli's side were not at their best but four goals from as many scorers will be pleasing for the coach, more so in the absence of Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

It was the first time Milan have scored four in a single league game this season and they will hope to build on that with a run of tricky fixtures in the coming weeks.

Calhanoglu the creative hub

Despite playing primarily from the left, Calhanoglu was central to some of Milan's brightest moments. He assisted two goals and played an important role in the other, creating a total of five chances for his team-mates.

Gabbia struggles at the back

Milan looked shakier in defence following the introduction of Gabbia and his foul on Babacar gave Lecce a route back into the game.

Key Opta Facts

- Milan scored with four different players in the same Serie A game for their first time since May 2018 (in a 5-1 win against Fiorentina).

- Lecce have conceded 15 goals in their last three Serie A games, two more than in their previous eight.

- Rebic has scored seven goals in his last eight Serie A appearances: in his previous eight with the Rossoneri he netted none.

- Castillejo scored a Serie A goal 429 days after his previous one (April 2019, against Parma). He fired 25 shots (six on target) before scoring his first league goal this term.

What's next?

Milan host Roma on Sunday in a game that could prove pivotal in their quest for European qualification, while Lecce continue their battle against relegation with a trip to Juventus on Friday.

Original author: Tom Webber
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The top 10 most memorable moments in Women's World Cup history

Take a look at Kylian Mbappe, Eden Hazard and Co. in the slick trailer for the most popular football video game franchise in the world

EA Sports has given fans a sneak peak of FIFA 21 in the game's reveal trailer and there is plenty to look forward to, especially as the new game launches on PS5 and Xbox Series X.

As expected, the graphics look slicker than ever and the gamer experience is set to become even more immersive with greater dynamism in the controller haptics on PlayStation.

Deferred lighting and new environments will be a feature of the latest edition, bringing a much more realistic experience to gamers, as will improved, next-gen technology for player physiques.

Part of that includes "off-ball humanisation", which will see players behave in an authentic manner, while an aural treat is in store too, with spatialised audio forming part of the updated game.

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

Original author: Goal
  106 Hits

Injured Etebo dropped for Getafe's trip to Real Valladolid

The Nigeria midfielder was forced off with an injury in Saturday's league draw against Eibar

Oghenekaro Etebo will not be travelling with Getafe for Tuesday's La Liga fixture against Real Valladolid, the club has confirmed.

The Stoke City loanee suffered a muscle injury after breaking his duck in the Spanish top-flight during Saturday’s 1-1 draw against Eibar.

Etebo limped off after 69 minutes of action over the weekend, and he is yet to regain fitness ahead of Tuesday's visit to Valladolid.

On Monday, Jose Bordalas summoned 21 players for the game at the Estadio Municipal Jose Zorrilla with the Super Eagles midfielder missing but Togo's Djene Dakonam, Cameroon's Allan Nyom, Morocco's Faycal Fajr and Senegal's Amath Ndiaye made the selection.

Dakonam and Nyom have made themselves key players in Bordalas' defence this season, and they will be aiming for their 28th and 29th league appearances respectively.

Fajr and Ndiaye, on the other hand, have struggled for regular game time with the Moroccan making seven league appearances so far while the latter has four games under his belt.

Etebo joined the Deep Blues from Stoke City on a short-term loan in January, and he has played in nine league matches so far, which include six starts.

The 24-year-old's absence in the middle of the park might be a worry for Getafe who have only lost three games the Nigerian has featured in.

They are fifth in La Liga table with 48 points after 30 games, four points adrift of fourth-placed Sevilla and the Champions League qualification zone.

Getafe are yet to win a league match since March 1 with their last four outings ending in three draws and a defeat - against Granada.

Following his strike on Saturday, Etebo became the 21st Nigerian to score in the Spanish top-flight, joining the likes of Ikechukwu Uche, Finidi George, Mutiu Adepoju, Odion Ighalo, Obafemi Martins and Rashidi Yekini in the list.

Original author: Taiye Taiwo
  239 Hits

‘Absolutely pathetic’ - Outrage as 'White Lives Matter' plane flies over Man City-Burnley match

Amid ongoing displays for racial equality, the banner was displayed above the Etihad on Monday

A plane carrying a "White Lives Matter" banner was seen above the Etihad during Burnley's clash with Manchester City, sparking outrage amid ongoing protests and demonstrations against racial inequality. 

All Premier League players have worn "Black Lives Matter" across the back of their shirts since the return to play, with the tribute following protests that began in the U.S. following the death of George Floyd.

Those protests have sparked demonstrations all over the world, with Weston McKennie, Jadon Sancho and Marcus Thuram among those to make displays in the Bundesliga, with Marcelo headlining those in La Liga.

In the Premier League, shirts have also had a Black Lives Matter patch on their shirts in addition to a patch for the NHS to commemorate the organisation's work during the coronavirus outbreak.

In addition to the shirts, players have been partaking in a moment of silence prior to kickoff, while also taking a knee on the opening whistle to show solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement.

Shortly following the start of Tuesday's match between second-place Manchester City and 11th-place Burnley, a plane was spotted overhead carrying a banner that read "White Lives Matter Burnley".

The display came just a few minutes into the match, moments after the players on the pitch finished kneeling, and circled overhead for the first moments of the match.

There has been no confirmation who paid for the banner to be displayed, but reaction on social media saw the message immediately condemned.

Indeed, Burnley released an official statement at half-time, which reads: 

"Burnley Football Club strongly condemns the actions of those responsible for the aircraft and offensive banner that flew over The Etihad Stadium on Monday evening.

"We wish to make it clear that those responsible are not welcome at Turf Moor.

"This, in no way, represents what Burnley Football Club stands for and we will work fully with the authorities to identify those responsible and issue lifetime bans.

"The club has a proud record of working with all genders, religions and faiths through its award-winning Community scheme, and stands against racism of any kind.

"We are fully behind the Premier League’s Black Lives Matter initiative and, in line with all other Premier League games undertaken since Project Restart, our players and football staff willingly took the knee at kick-off at Manchester City.

"We apologise unreservedly to the Premier League, to Manchester City and to all those helping to promote Black Lives Matter."

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Real Madrid secure first refusal 'agreement' for Erling Haaland

The Super Eagles captain reminisces on his second half double against the Europeans in a make or break encounter at the Volgograd Arena

Ahmed Musa has remembered the memory of scoring Nigeria’s two goals in their 2-0 defeat of Iceland at the 2018 Fifa World Cup in Russia.

Having lost 2-0 to Croatia in their opening game, the Super Eagles went into the encounter in dire need of a win against the debutants.

However, it was the speedy forward who was the hero as his second-half effort inspired Gernot Rohr’s men to a much-desired victory at the Volgograd Arena.

After a poor first half where Nigeria failed to record a single shot – Musa put the Africans ahead in the 49th minute. He controlled a cross from Victor Moses and thumped an unstoppable drive into the roof of the net.

He completed his brace 15 minutes before full time after making a mess of Iceland’s solid backline.

Five minutes later, Our Boys had a chance to launch a comeback after Tyronne Ebuehi clipped Alfred Finnbogason at the byline, but Gylfi Sigurdsson fired the ensuing kick over the bar.

Two years later, the Al-Nassr star recalled that moment – describing it as one of the best days of his life.

“Wow, how time flies! I can't believe it's two years already since I scored those much-needed goals at the World Cup,” Musa tweeted.

“The tears of joy I shed that day I can never forget. Unarguably one of the best days of my life. Grateful to Allah and every one of you for the love.”

The three-time African champions’ hopes got quashed owing to a 2-1 defeat to Argentina in their last Group D encounter.

Thanks to his goals, Musa became the Super Eagles' top scorer in the history of the tournament with four strikes.

His second goal against Iceland where he combined pace, composure and brilliance was a contender for the goal of the competition along 17 others, however, Benjamin Pavard’s stunner against Argentina won the individual prize with the Nigerian’s effort settling for eighth spot.

With former Chelsea star drawing the curtain on his international career, leadership responsibilities fall on the ex-Leicester City man who would hope to help the country qualify for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Original author: Shina Oludare
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Who is Ten Hag targeting for next phase of Man United rebuild?

The 82-year-old German picks the most outstanding players he has ever managed in his career 

Former Ghana and Cameroon coach Otto Pfister has named Olympique Marseille legend Abedi Ayew Pele and former Barcelona ace Samuel Eto'o as the biggest players he has ever managed.

The German tactician spent two years with the Black Stars, guiding the team to the final of the of the 1992 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) in Senegal. He also led the Indomitable Lions from 2007 and 2009, helping the outfit to make the 2008 Afcon climax.

Abedi, an Afcon winner with Ghana, is highly celebrated for inspiring Marseille to win the Champions League in 1993 while Eto'o twice won Afcon and thrice lifted the Champions League.

“Samuel Eto’o and Abedi Pele absolutely on top,” Pfister, who also coached Senegal, Togo, Rwanda, Cote d'Ivoire, Zaire and Saudi Arabia, told Citi FM.

“But you cannot say Abedi is better than Eto’o or Eto’o is better than Abedi because [they don't play in] the same position.

“Samuel Eto’o was a top striker, at his time he was one of the best strikers in the world.

“But Abedi Pele for me in his position was a genius. He was so strong, he had skills, he had anticipation, he can score.

"He was truly at the time one of the best playmakers in the world. Abedi was to me a wonder player."

Abedi indeed has an illustrious career as he won the Afcon with Ghana in 1982 and the Champions League with French side Olympique Marseille in 1992-1993.

Abedi also won the French league twice with Marseille as well as the UAE Pro-League and President’s Cup with Al Ain.

At an individual level, he claimed the Africa Footballer of the Year award on three occasions, one of his many personal honours.

Abedi rated fifth in the Top 30 African Footballers in the last 50 years released by the Confederation of African Football (Caf) in 2007.

Eto’o won the Afcon title in 2000 and 2002 in addition to clinching gold at the 2000 Olympic Games.

At club level, the striker's first major success was winning the Spanish Copa del Rey with Real Mallorca in 2002-03, having cut ties with Real Madrid who brought him from Cameroon as a youth team player. While with Real, he also had loan stints with Leganes and Espanyol.

Eto’o joined Barcelona in 2004 and would go on to win the Spanish league title on three occasions, the Copa del Rey in 2009, the Spanish Super Cup twice and the Champions League in 2005-06 and 2008-09.

In 2009, the 39-year-old transferred to Italian fold Inter Milan, with whom he won a quintuple of trophies (Serie A title, Coppa Italia, Italian Super Cup, Champions League and Fifa Club World Cup) in 2010.

On an individual level, Eto’o, who stands as the all-time top scorer at Afcon with 18 goals, and also as the all-time top scorer for Cameroon and Real Mallorca, won the African Footballer of the Year awards in 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2010. He finished third in the race for the 2005 Fifa World Best Player award. These are only a few of his many individual accolades.
 

Original author: Prince Narkortu Teye
  96 Hits

'Red and White for life': Bayern unveil white home kit for 2023-24

The organisers are marking this year's day with 24-hour activities, featuring top athletes, including the Nigerian on Tuesday

Desire Oparanozie has joined other world football stars in Tuesday's online Olympic Day workout to annually celebrate the sport and values.

Oparanozie made the list of 23 international athletes, which also includes Kenya’s 1500m gold medallist Faith Kipyegon and USA’s 13-time Paralympic gold medal-winning swimmer Jessica Long.

She is the only footballer and the fourth athlete from the continent picked to feature in the digital workout, along with South Africa's swimmer Cameron van der Burgh and Senegal's surfer Cherif Fall.

The global health crisis caused by the coronavirus outbreak forced the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 postponement and the IOC initiated the activities for the #StayStrong, #StayActive, #StayHealthy campaign. 

On Tuesday, 23 athletes will join the recording of a live official Olympic Day workout video, beginning from 11 am local time across 20 time zones on its official Instagram handle, Olympic.

“We are all in the same situation right now,” IOC President, Thomas Bach told the website

“With the global coronavirus crisis, all of us are living with much uncertainty about the future. In these difficult times, we need the values of sport, our shared Olympic values of excellence, friendship, respect and solidarity, more than ever. 

"The Olympic flame can be the light at the end of the dark tunnel that we all find ourselves in now. On Olympic Day, we are sending this Olympic message to everybody. 

"Please stay strong, stay active, stay healthy. In this Olympic spirit, I wish you all a wonderful Olympic Day 2020,” the President concluded.

Confirming her live appearance for 11 am, the Super Falcons striker, who captained Nigeria at the Women's World Cup in France last year, shared her joy over her inclusion.  

"Olympic day is here. Honoured to be among the top 20 athletes around the world to lead on the IOC activation," Oparanozie wrote on her Instagram page.

"You won't wanna miss this for anything. Tune in on my IG live with @olympics @olympicchannel tomorrow at 11 am.

 

Original author: Samuel Ahmadu
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Nimes' Karim Aribi handed first call-up as Mahrez headlines Algeria squad for Zimbabwe clash

Everything you need to know about the MLS restart, including teams involved, when games are played and how to watch

Major League Soccer will resume in July in an innovative fashion, opting for a unique tournament approach in order to continue the 2020 season.

Having suspended games in March, soccer in North America will be back in an exciting form with 54 matches set to be played across one month in Florida.

Goal brings you everything you need to know about the 'MLS is Back' tournament.

Contents

What is the 'MLS is Back' tournament? When does the MLS is Back tournament start? What is the MLS is Back tournament schedule? Where will the MLS is Back tournament take place? How can I watch & stream the MLS is Back tournament?

What is the MLS is Back tournament?

The MLS is Back tournament is a condensed approach to continuing the 2020 regular season.

All 26 MLS teams will compete in the tournament, which will be divided into three Eastern Conference groups and three Western Conference groups.

The top two teams from each of the six groups as well as the four best third-placed teams will progress to the last 16.

Group matches go towards the regular season standings and winner of the MLS is Back tournament will earn a place in the Concacaf Champions League, as well as a share of a $1.1 million (£880k) prize fund.

Once the tournament is over, MLS plans to continue the regular season "with a revised schedule in home markets" and complete the MLS Cup playoffs and final.

The groups for the MLS is Back tournament have been drawn as follows:

Eastern Conference

Western Conference

When does the MLS is Back tournament start?

The MLS is Back tournament begins on July 8 and it will conclude just over a month later with the final, which will be played on August 11.

What is the MLS is Back tournament schedule?

Tournament stage Date(s)
Group stage July 8 - 23
Round of 16 July 25 - 28
Quarter-finals July 30 / August 1
Semi-finals August 5 / 6
Final August 11

The group stage will begin on July 8 and run until July 23 with the round of 16 kicking off soon afterwards on July 25, running until July 28.

The quarter-final matches will be played on July 30 / August 1, while the semi-finals are scheduled for August 5 / 6. The final will take place on August 11.

Where will the MLS is Back tournament take place?

All MLS is Back tournament games will be played at the ESPN Wide World of Sports at the Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida.

The Wide World of Sports complex boasts a number of multi-use sports venues, including the Marathon Sports Fields, which hosted Orlando City (then a USL Pro team) in 2014

How can I watch or stream the MLS is Back tournament?

ESPN, Univision, TUDN and UniMas hold the rights to broadcast MLS games in the United States (U.S.).

In the United Kingdom (UK), MLS games can be watched live on Sky Sports and Premier Sports.

According to MLS, broadcasts will feature "unique and experimental technologies" including "advanced audio and fan integration elements" to allow the supporters to engage with games despite public health-enforced limitations.

Original author: Ryan Kelly
  233 Hits

Manchester City 1-1 Liverpool: Player Ratings After Tale of Two Penalties

The retention of the teenage forward hands Thomas Tuchel's side a key boost with several of their young stars electing to depart the French capital

Paris Saint-Germain academy talent Kenny Nagera has signed a professional contract with the club, with the 18-year-old forward putting pen to paper on a three-year deal in the French capital, Goal can confirm.

Nagera - one of PSG's strongest Under-19 performers this term - will be on the books at Parc des Princes until 2023 at the earliest following his impressive showings for the club's youth sides, after he turned down interest from several other teams in France and further afield.

The teenager's decision to remain with PSG hands a significant boost to the club following stalled attempts to keep Tanguy Kouassi on the books, while Adil Aouchiche still looks poised to exit imminently, with Bayern Munich appearing to be the former's destination and Arsenal a touted new home for the latter.

Nagera was a product of the Epinay-sur-Seine training academy, arriving at PSG in 2015, but it has only been this season that he has truly exploded onto the scene for the U19 team, helping them to the quarter-finals of the Coupe Gambardella before the competition was curtailed by the Covid-19 coronavirus pandemic.

In addition, he helped the side to third place in the Championnat National U19 League, behind Le Havre and Amiens, while he also played for the club in their UEFA Youth League campaign late last year, though PSG's failure to qualify for the knockout stages from a group including Real Madrid and Club Brugge halted any prolonged involvement in the competition.

With Ligue 1 curtailed and the club handed the domestic crown once more, Thomas Tuchel's side only have their currently unscheduled Coupe de France and Coupe de la Ligue finals to complete on the domestic front, while they await confirmation of who they will face in the Champions League quarter-finals in Lisbon during a condensed mini-tournament style finale in Lisbon.

The decision to cancel the rest of the top-flight campaign - one of only a few European nations to do so in the face of an unprecedented health crisis - ensured that PSG retained their crown and a place at the high table of European knockout football once again next term.

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‘Nine out of 10 signings for Liverpool have been bang on’ – Collymore salutes Reds’ recruitment

The club will not travel to the upcoming tournament as Covid-19 numbers continue to rise in Florida

The Orlando Pride announced on Monday that they have pulled out of the NWSL Challenge Cup due to a number of positive coronavirus tests among the club's players and staff.

With sports in the U.S. still yet to return, the NWSL is set to become the first league to resume with the upcoming tournament, which will be held in Utah.

However, following a number of positive tests, the Pride have opted to withdraw, with players and staff set to isolate for at least 14 days while those that did not test positive will undergo consistent coronavirus testing.

"This was obviously a difficult and disappointing outcome for our players, our staff and fans, however this is a decision that was made in order to protect the health of all involved in the Challenge Cup,” said Orlando Pride EVP Amanda Duffy. “While we were all excited to see the 2020 Pride on the field this weekend, our priority is now making sure our players and staff safely recover and providing any support wherever and however possible.”

The NWSL had recently confirmed the schedule for the Challenge Cup, which was set to include all nine NWSL clubs and run from June 27 to July 26.

Complicating matters is that Orlando is set to play host to the return of MLS, with the MLS is Back tournament set to be held at the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex, although the continuous surge in coronavirus numbers in Florida will be a concerning trend for MLS ahead of a return to play.

The Pride state that team members did not have any direct interaction with any players or coaching staff from Orlando City SC or Orlando City B.

“While we were all looking forward to seeing the Pride return to the field, we are unfortunately facing a decision that is necessary and in the best interest for the health of our players and staff. The decision goes far beyond just the positives, but also taking into consideration roommates or partners,” said Daryl Osbahr, M.D., team doctor for Orlando Pride and chief of sports medicine for Orlando Health.

“I commend the Club for its diligence and reaction following the initial positive test, as well as how the safety of players and staff was prioritized during this difficult and uncertain time. However the guidelines and process that are put in place, including the important protocols and timelines for contact tracing, make it logistically impossible for the Club to participate in the Challenge Cup in Utah.”

  119 Hits

Barcelona fixtures: La Liga 2021-22 dates & when do they play Real Madrid?

Manchester City made eight changes from their 3-0 win over Arsenal but Pep Guardiola's men were in uncompromising mood against Burnley.

Phil Foden and Riyad Mahrez helped themselves to two goals apiece as Manchester City ran up a 5-0 Premier League win over Burnley.

Sean Dyche only being able to name seven substitutes – including two goalkeepers – suggested his team were ill-equipped for the task at hand, and so it proved.

There was little doubt over the outcome from the moment Foden produced a sweetly struck 22nd-minute opener.

Mahrez and David Silva scored beautifully constructed goals either side of the former slotting home a penalty in first-half stoppage time.

Foden, who also completed the scoring in last Wednesday's 3-0 victory over Arsenal, was on target again in the 63rd minute and City's win means Liverpool's title wait will go on a little longer.

Jurgen Klopp's men cannot mathematically be confirmed as champions when they host Crystal Palace this week, with their mammoth lead trimmed to 20 points.

City initially lacked tempo and struggled to get in behind a deep-lying Burnley defence, something Foden took out of the equation by arrowing a stunning 25-yard strike into the bottom-right corner.

A glorious raking pass from Fernandinho was met with a deft first touch from Mahrez that allowed him to torment Charlie Taylor before firing home across Nick Pope right footed.

The Burnley goalkeeper guessed correctly but could not prevent the Algeria international from making it 3-0 from the spot, after a VAR review showed Ben Mee was fractionally late into his challenge on Sergio Aguero.

Aguero hobbled out of the action as a result of that incident but it did nothing to check City's momentum, with Foden once again instrumental in the 51st minute – releasing Bernardo Silva with a delicious reverse pass. David Silva was the beneficiary among those queueing up to score.

Kevin De Bruyne's introduction in place of Mahrez with an hour played was a sorry sight for the beleaguered visitors and the Belgium star scythed through midfield in his typical manner, feeding Bernardo Silva whose low cross was touched towards Foden by Gabriel Jesus for another fine finish.

During the match, Burnley issued a statement to strongly condemn those responsible for a plane flown over the Etihad Stadium carrying a banner that read "White Lives Matter Burnley".

What does it mean? Life after Sane for City

Pep Guardiola's confirmation that Bayern Munich-bound Leroy Sane - a late substitute for Foden - will not sign a new contract at the club made headlines on Friday and his suggestion he might not seek a replacement for the Germany winger raised eyebrows among some of the City faithful. The men in possession certainly made their case, with Foden deployed in the left-wing berth where Sane excelled and Mahrez locating the devastating Leicester City form he has only shown sparingly since moving to Manchester.

Foden fans expectations once more

Such is Foden's status, as a homegrown talent and a boyhood fan of a club where the route from the academy to the first team has been largely blocked over the past decade, considerable scrutiny awaits his every appearance. The fact he thrives under this microscope suggests a temperament to match his talent. Across 12 starts in all competitions this term, the England Under-21 playmaker has four goals and seven assists.

Behind-the-scenes ructions sell Dyche short

Burnley rarely looked like a side heading into this match on a seven-match unbeaten run in the Premier League. The coronavirus hiatus obviously robbed them of that momentum but Dyche certainly deserved better than having a chunk of first-team regulars unavailable due to contract brinkmanship. He made his displeasure with the situation fairly clear before kick-off and a third consecutive 5-0 thrashing on this ground will have done little for his mood. The Burnley board must act judiciously to patch up relations with a man who is unquestionably their most valuable asset.

Key Opta Facts

- City have scored five or more goals on 17 different occasions in the Premier League since Pep Guardiola joined at the start of the 2016-17 campaign; eight more than any other side.
- Burnley suffered their joint-highest margin of defeat in a Premier League game, only conceding more goals once before in the competition (6-1 versus City in April 2010).
- Burnley are the first side to have as many as 10 English starters in a Premier League game since Middlesbrough in May 2006 (10 against Fulham).
- Bernardo Silva has assisted four of Manchester City's nine Premier League goals against Burnley this season. The last player to provide as many assists against a side in a single campaign was Christian Eriksen against Stoke City in 2016-17 (four).

What's next?

City are on the road at Chelsea on Thursday, when Burnley host Watford.

Original author: Dom Farrell
  175 Hits

15 players resign from Spain women's team in protest against Jorge Vilda

Los Nervionenses came from behind twice to earn a point against Samuel Chukwueze’s Yellow Submarine on Monday night

Sevilla strengthened their grip on third spot in the Spanish elite division thanks to a 2-2 draw versus Villarreal at the Estadio de la Ceramica.

Los Nervionenses came into the encounter having played out draws against Levante and Barcelona in their last two games – and despite conceding twice against the hosts, they got one point which extended their unbeaten run in LaLiga to eight.

Villarreal manager Javi Calleja made six changes to the starting XI that got a 1-0 victory at Granada on Friday.

Returning captain Paco Alcacer handed the hosts an 18th-minute lead off a rebound of Tomas Vaclik’s safe from Andre Anguissa head.

The visitors levelled matters in the 39th minute after Sergio Escudero left-footed shot from the edge of the box beat goalkeeper Asenjo.

With the first-half heading for a 1-1 draw, Pau Torres headed home a well-executed corner kick from Santi Carzola in the 45th minute.

Eight minutes into the second-half, Munir El Haddadi levelled matters with a sumptuous strike having received a pass from impressive Jesus Navas.

Both teams pushed further for more goals, nevertheless, the game finished on a no winner, no vanquished note.

The result is a setback for Villarreal who were in dire need of a win to boost their chances of picking a ticket to next season’s Champions League. They are sixth in the log having garnered 48 points from 31 outings.

For Julen Lopetegui’s Sevilla, a point strengthened their grip on qualifying for Europe’s elite club competition next term. They sit in third place with 53 points – 12 points below leaders Real Madrid.

The tie was Samuel Chukwueze’s 30th league game of the season with three goals to his credit – albeit he was replaced in the 72nd minute by Javier Ontiveros.

On-loan Fulham and Cameroon midfielder Anguissa was on parade from start to finish while there was no place for Morocco’s Sofian Chakla was an unused substitute.

Youssef En-Nesyri was handed a starting role for the visitors, nevertheless, he made way for Luuk de Jong with nine minutes left to play. His compatriot Yassine Bounou who is on-loan from Girona was an unused sub.

Villarreal host Valencia in their next tie on Sunday as Sevilla welcome Real Valladolid to Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan on Friday.

 

Original author: Shina Oludare
  152 Hits

De Bruyne stars as Belgium beat Wales in NL

The Ghanaian midfielder made the Viola starting XI once again but his presence was only good for a draw

Alfred Duncan played for 67 minutes with Fiorentina picking up a point after a 1-1 draw against Brescia at the Artemio Franchi on Monday night.

The Ghana international – who is a loan signing from Sassuolo prior to the game made it clear that it was fundamental for the men in purple to get three points on their turf, particularly as they were on a three-match unbeaten run before the Serie A was suspended in March because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Fiorentina, however, started on the back foot with Alfredo Donnarumma giving Brescia the lead in the 17th minute after Daniele Dessena was brought down in the box by Martin Caceres, the Uruguayan getting a yellow card for his action.

Giuseppe Iachini’s men responded back 12 minutes later with German Pezzella's equaliser via an Erick Pulgar assist.

Caceres got sent off in the 70th minute for a second bookable after tripping Ernesto Torregrossa outside the penalty box which resulted in a free-kick.

Fiorentina boss Iachini was infuriated by the decision to send Caceres off and got a red card himself which made him watch the rest of the game from the stands.

Duncan was taken off and replaced by Leicester City loanee and Algeria international Rachid Ghezzal who contributed 28 touches on the ball, 18 accurate passes at 85% and winning two of four ground duels.

It makes the fourth consecutive match the 27-year old would play with Fiorentina not losing any (one win, three draws).

Ghezzal on his path only lasted six minutes on the pitch as he was taken off for Nikola Milenkovic in a tactical switch due to Caceres’ red card. He still managed to make four touches, one accurate pass, one clearance and win one aerial duel.

The former Lyon winger has played 13 times for Fiorentina in all competitions this term, providing an assist in a 2-0 win over Citadella in the fourth round of the Coppa Italia in March.

The Viola’s failure to win on their turf keeps them in 13th place and just six points clear of the relegation zone.

They will face a tricky test when they travel to Rome to tackle second-placed Lazio at the Stadio Olimpico on June 27.

Original author: Kunle Fayiga
  180 Hits

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