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Gor Mahia coach Polack will hand in CV if Harambee Stars job falls vacant

Neither Los Felinos nor Los Gallos Blancos have picked up wins so far this term, but both will hope to change that this weekend when they meet

Pumas and Queretaro will square off in Liga MX at Estadio Olimpico Universitario, as both sides search for a first win of the domestic campaign.

Watch Pumas UNAM vs Queretaro on fuboTV (free 7-day trial)

Neither Los Felinos nor Los Gallos Blancos have tasted top-flight victory so far this term, but both will hope to change that when they meet this weekend.

Ahead of the game, Goal has the details of how to watch on TV, stream online, team news and more.

TV channel, live stream & how to watch

In the United States (US), Liga MX matches can be watched live and on-demand with fuboTV (watch with a 7-day free trial).

New users can sign up for a free seven-day trial of the live sports streaming service, which can be accessed via iOS, Android, Chromecast, Amazon Fire TV, Roku and Apple TV as well as on a web browser.

Team news & rosters

Position Pumas UNAM roster
Goalkeepers Talavera, Paz, Ramirez, Gonzalez
Defenders Mozo, Vasquez, Rodriguez, Velarde, Freire, Barragan, Rivas
Midfielders Lira, Saucedo, Meritao, F. Alvarez, Cruz, Moreno, Amaury Garcia, Lopez, Battocchio, Corozo, Galindo, M. Garcia, Angel Garcia
Forwards Dinenno, Rogerio, Montejano, Torres, A. Alvarez

With the Gold Cup and Tokyo 2020 firmly in the rearview mirror, UNAM have a full roster from which to choose - though their recent midweek exploits against New York City in the Leagues Cup mean they could be forced into further rotation over the next few games.

Andres Lillini is likely to revert to a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Alan Mozo and Jeronimo Rodriguez deployed in wing-back positions, while Juan Dinenno will be backed to lead the attack.

Predicted Pumas UNAM starting XI: Gonzalez; Mozo, Gutierrez, Velarde, Rodriguez; Lira, Meritao; Rogerio, Battocchio, Saucedo; Dinenno.

Position Queretaro roster
Goalkeepers Aguerre, Diaz, Rivero, E. Martinez, Ruiz
Defenders Mendoza, Hernandez, Vera, Doldan, Cervantes, Perg, Garcia, Meza
Midfielders Escamilla, Ramirez, O. Martinez, Montero, Oliveira, Viniegra, Torres, Cabrera, Canales, Balanta
Forwards Gomez, Barrera, Madrigal, Sosa, Gallardo, Gonzalez, Espino, Dos Santos, Vargas

With two draws from their first two games - followed by a narrow loss to Leon - former Mexico international Hector Altamirano has faced a tough start to the new term as he continues as Queretaro manager.

But the chance to hand a blow to a Pumas side forced to double up in midweek will only spur his side on, with the visitors also likely to favour a 4-2-3-1 led by Leon loanee Nicolas Sosa.

Predicted Queretaro starting XI: Aguerre; Meza, Perg, Doldan, Hernandez; Martinez, Cabrera; Ramirez, Espino, Torres; Sosa.

Last five results

Pumas UNAM results Queretaro results
New York City 1 (2)-(3) 1 Pumas UNAM (Aug 11) Queretaro 0-1 Leon (Aug 5)
Pumas UNAM 1-3 Atletico San Luis (Aug 8) Atletico San Luis 1-1 Queretaro (Aug 2)
Monterrey 2-0 Pumas UNAM (Jul 31) Queretaro 0-0 Club America (Jul 22)
Everton 1-0 Pumas UNAM (Jul 28) Pumas UNAM 2-2 Queretaro (Jul 12)
Pumas UNAM 0-0 Atlas (Jul 25) Queretaro 1-2 Real Espana (Jul 8)

Head-to-head

Date Result
7/12/2021 Pumas UNAM 2-2 Queretaro
1/24/2021 Queretaro 2-0 Pumas UNAM
7/26/2020 Pumas UNAM 3-2 Queretaro
10/27/2019 Queretaro 3-0 Pumas UNAM
2/10/2019 Queretaro 0-2 Pumas UNAM
  322 Hits

Revealed: Orlando Pirates XI vs Swallows FC - Jele & Mhango benched, Tlolane surprise starter

This is how the Buccaneers will start against their traditional rivals in this MTN8 Last-Eight 'Original Soweto Derby' at Orlando Stadium on Saturday
Original author: Michael Madyira
  380 Hits

MTN8: Mamelodi Sundowns vs Kaizer Chiefs - Five key battles to watch

There are battles which are likely to decide which way the result goes when the two Gauteng giants collide on Sunday
Original author: Austin Ditlhobolo
  361 Hits

De Jong, Messi 7/10 as Barca extend unbeaten Liga run to six

The Blaugrana defender admits to being left "shocked" at seeing an all-time great leave Camp Nou after failing to put a new contract in place
Original author: Chris Burton
  279 Hits

Man Utd vs Leeds - Premier League: TV channel, team news, lineups & prediction

The Nigerian trio got the nod to start in Xisco Munoz's team for their opening league fixture at Vicarage Road on Saturday

Emmanuel Dennis, Oghenekaro Etebo and William Troost-Ekong have been handed their Premier League debuts in Watford’s home game against Aston Villa.

The Super Eagles stars joined the Hornets as reinforcements this summer following their promotion from the Championship last season.

Dennis leads Watford's attack while Etebo is expected to coordinate proceedings from the middle of the park and Troost-Ekong joins Craig Cathcart at the centre of the defence.

Other African stars on parade in Xisco Munoz's team are Morocco's Adam Masina and Senegal winger Ismaila Sarr.

Meanwhile, Aston Villa have Zimbabwe's Marvelous Nakamba in their starting XI but Burkina Faso winger Bertrand Traore is starting on the bench.

Dennis moved to Vicarage Road on a five-year deal from Club Brugge in June after an unsuccessful loan spell in the Bundesliga where he played nine matches for FC Cologne in the second-half of the 2020-21 season.

Etebo, on the other hand, joined the Hornets on a season-long loan in July for his first taste of top-flight football in England after one-and-a-half seasons in the Championship with Stoke City, 

Lastly, Troost-Ekong played a crucial role in Watford's promotion to the Premier League with his defensive contributions in 32 Championship games.

The 27-year-old joined the Hornets from Udinese on a five-year contract in September 2020, and he recently claimed playing in the Premier League is a dream come true for him.

"It took me all these years just to get to where I wanted to be,” Troost-Ekong told ESPN.

"Now the biggest challenges ahead of me is actually playing in the Premier League and hopefully enjoying myself here. Because that's something that I have wanted to do all my life.

"It has taken having a lot of perseverance to get here. And now, I feel like I'm just getting started.

"Being in the Premier League, we want to stay in the Premier League. That should be everyone's main aiming point, everyone's main target.

"After that, we'll see what happens. And staying in the Premier League is my personal goal with Watford. Of course, the better we can do, the better."

Original author: Taiye Taiwo
  127 Hits

Pogba betters 2020-21 haul with four assists in Manchester United's mauling of Leeds

The France international midfielder was at his sparkling best in an opening day meeting with the Whites at Old Trafford

Paul Pogba managed only three assists for Manchester United in the 2020-21 campaign, but has required just one appearance this time around to better that return.

The France international midfielder has often seen questions asked of his consistency at club level and ability to be a talismanic performer for the Red Devils.

He was, however, very much in the groove during an opening day meeting with Leeds at Old Trafford, with his efforts contributing signifcantly to a convincing win for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side.

How many assists did Pogba provide?

The 28-year-old has seen his future speculated on again in the current window after entering the final year of his current contract.

His performance against Leeds suggests that United should be doing all they can to tie him down on fresh terms.

A lively opening by United was rewarded on the half-hour mark when Pogba fizzed a one-touch pass into the path of Bruno Fernandes to drill home.

The World Cup winner than curled a perfect pass beyond the Leeds backline for Mason Greenwood to edge the home side back in front early in the second half, after Luke Ayling had briefly levelled.

He was not done there and also put a second on a plate for Fernandes, before then providing the cross for Fred to turn in a fifth of the afternoon for the rampant Red Devils.

Having endured struggles on home soil when stumbling out of the blocks last season, United - with fans back in attendance - have made a dream start to 2021-22 as they look to bring a five-year wait for major silverware to a close.

Who else starred against Leeds?

While Pogba earned plenty of plaudits with his four assists, it was Fernandes that took home the match ball. The Portuguese playmaker was United's top scorer in 2020-21 and has now registered a first Premier League hat-trick for the club.

After the game however, Fernandes was quick to pile the praise on his midfield partner, telling BT Sport: "People talk about the quality of Paul, but his quality is not in discussion. We know what he can do and today he showed that. He’s an important player for us. We know to expect these kind of performances from Paul."

Solskjaer will be looking for Fernandes and Pogba to strike up a formidable partnership in the middle of the park, with their obvious qualities set to play a crucial role for the Red Devils.

United will be back in action next weekend when taking in a trip to Southampton.

Further reading

Original author: Chris Burton
  257 Hits

Everton bench Iwobi as Salisu and Djenepo start for Southampton

Saints' two African players have been drafted into the starting XI for the season opener at Goodison Park, but the Nigerian international was benched

Southampton have named a strong squad for their Premier League opener against Everton with Mohammed Salisu and Moussa Djenepo starting, while Alex Iwobi will be on the bench for the hosts.

The Nigerian winger, who signed for the Toffees on a £34m-deal back in 2019 from Arsenal, struggled to nail down a starting role in the team under Carlo Ancelotti last season.

And with the arrival of new signings Demarai Gray and Andros Townsend, the Super Eagle, who managed two goals last season, will have to improve on his game to get playing time at Goodison Park this campaign.

With that in mind, it came as no surprise to see him benched by Rafael Benitez for the team’s first home game of the Premier League season.

Meanwhile, the Ghanaian Salisu, who joined Saints for a fee of £10.9 million on August 1, 2020, will be tasked to marshal the defence and cover keeper Alex McCarthy, while Malian Djenepo will play on the wing against the Toffees.

Following the exit of Danny Ings to Aston Villa, Southampton will bank on Adam Armstrong to get them the goals.

Coach Ralph Hasenhuttl admitted in a recent interview they had lost a good player in Ings but was quick to point out the money raised from the deal can be reinvested into his squad.

“We had a fantastic player over a few years who helped us a lot staying in the league,” Hasenhuttl told the club’s official website .

“Finally, he didn’t decide to sign a new contract for us. He’s decided to go somewhere else, which is his right, but we lose a fantastic player and person and get a lot of money for him with only one year left.

“I think it’s a deal where we only have winners on every side. We can replace him and we must replace him to get a player who scores goals for us.

“I know that we have a few others in our team who must step up now, but it is clear that we have this money, and we need this money for maybe bringing two more players into this squad that we need.”

Original author: Dennis Mabuka
  390 Hits

LIVE: Chelsea vs Crystal Palace

16' The Palace fans behind the Chelsea goal jeer the referee as the believe they finally get a call in their favour as Kovacic fouls Ward.

15' SAVE! Mount goes for goal with a curling strike from 20 yards, but his effort is repelled by the fists of Guaita.

14' Mount is tripped on the edge of the box by Ward and Chelsea are awarded a free-kick in a dangerous position.

13' WIDE! Kovacic collects a cutback from Werner on the edge of the box and goes for a low strike towards the target, but his attempt is deflected just wide of the left post.

12' Alonso wins the ball and plays a one-two with Werner, but the offload from the German into the left-inside channel goes astray.

10' SAVE! Alonso has space on the left flank and he angles a cross into the box. Pulisic arrives with a glancing header, but he sends his attempt straight at Guaita.

7' Mount does well down the right and fires a low ball into the box. Werner tries to take it in stride, but cannot escape Kouyate. It rolls out to Azpilicueta to strike from a difficult angle and his effort sails well over the bar.

6' It has been a quiet start to proceedings as the Blues have dominated possession, but have not worked their way through the Palace backline yet.

3' Werner tries to stretch in the right-inside channel to keep a pass from Jorginho alive, but he cannot stop it rolling out for a goal-kick.

1' We're underway at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea have won 16 of their last 20 Premier League meetings with Crystal Palace (L4), including each of the last seven in a row.

Vieira hands a debut to only one of his summer signings. Guehi gets the nod to start against his former club in the heart of the Palace defence. He partners Kouyate, while Mitchell and Ward make up the back four, leaving Andersen on the bench. Zaha, Mateta and Ayew lead the line for the Eagles. 

Chelsea have made five changes to their side that beat Villarreal in the European Super Cup final. Christensen, Azpilicueta, Jorginho, Mount and Pulisic all start for the Blues this afternoon. Havertz, Hudson-Odoi and Zouma all drop to the bench. Hakim Ziyech is out with a shoulder injury and N'Golo Kante is also sidelined after suffering a knock during the week. Lukaku will have to wait for his second Chelsea debut.

CRYSTAL PALACE SUBS: Jack Butland, Joachim Andersen, Nathaniel Clyne, Christian Benteke, Martin Kelly, Scott Banks, Reece Hannam, Robert Street, Jesuran Rak-Sakyi.

CRYSTAL PALACE (4-3-3): Vicente Guaita; Joel Ward, Marc Guehi, Cheikhou Kouyate, Tyrick Mitchell; Jairo Riedewald, James McArthur, Jeffrey Schlupp; Jordan Ayew, Jean-Philippe Mateta, Wilfried Zaha.

CHELSEA SUBS: Kepa Arrizabalaga; Thiago Silva, Tammy Abraham, Kurt Zouma, Callum Hudson-Odoi, Ben Chilwell, Reece James, Kai Havertz, Emerson.

CHELSEA (3-4-3): Edouard Mendy; Trevor Chalobah, Andreas Christenen, Antonio Rudiger; Cesar Azpilicueta, Jorginho, Mateo Kovacic, Marcos Alonso; Christian Pulisic, Timo Werner, Mason Mount.

Palace begin a new era with Patrick Vieira in the dugout after the Frenchman replaced Roy Hodgson, who stepped down at the end of last term. The Eagles have finished 14th in their last two terms and will be eager to improve their standing under their new manager. Vieira will manage in the Premier League for the first time, although he is far from a novice having previous experience with New York City FC and Nice. Palace have been active in the transfer market over the summer with the siginings of Joachim Andersen, Marc Guehi and Michael Olise along with a loan move for Conor Gallagher. All eyes will be on the former Arsenal skipper to see how he performs as a Premier League manager.

Chelsea return to Premier League action after a successful two-game spell in Europe. The Blues have won the Champions League and the European Super Cup since their last league outing in May. Romelu Lukaku has been signed since their triumph in the Super Cup on Wednesday over Villarreal, although the Belgian is not avaiable today. Thomas Tuchel made a decisive impact last season and will be eyeing the top-flight crown after beating Manchester City in the Champions League. A strong start is required on home soil.

Good afternoon and welcome to the live commentary of the Premier League clash between Chelsea and Crystal Palace at Stamford Bridge.

  299 Hits

Chelsea to hold talks with UK government over Roman Abramovich sanctions

The Alaves goalkeeper, who is a product of the Blancos' famed academy system, is preparing to face familiar faces on Saturday

Eden Hazard and Gareth Bale remain "world-class" talents, says Fernando Pacheco, with the Alaves goalkeeper - who is a product of Real Madrid's academy system - prepared to give two proven performers the "respect" they deserve.

Pacheco is readying himself for a meeting with the Blancos on Saturday, with the new La Liga season getting underway.

He could be in for a busy evening, despite a lack of transfer activity at Santiago Bernabeu, with a man who spent nine years in the Spanish capital between 2006 and 2015 aware that Carlo Ancelotti has plenty of match-winning talent at his disposal.

What has been said?

Pacheco, who made just two senior appearances for Real, has told Goal of facing a Madrid side that has lost the likes of Sergio Ramos and Raphael Varane this summer: "Everything has been a bit strange, with the coronavirus and having many injuries. 

"They have also lost important players, but we must see how Hazard or Bale perform this season. If they do it at their level, they are world-class. You have to have respect for them because they have earned it. 

"I always say the same thing: I've seen Bale train and, if he's okay, he's one of the best in the world."

Who else does Pacheco rate?

The 29-year-old saw his route to the first-team with Real blocked by seasoned international performers, forcing him to go in search of game time elsewhere.

Madrid have continued to snap up highly-rated shot-stoppers in his absence, with Belgium international Thibaut Courtois currently filling a role between the sticks.

Pacheco said of the Blancos' No.1: "For me he was the best goalkeeper in the league last year and I put him among the best in the world."

Is Ancelotti the right man for Real?

It is not just on the field that Real have been forced to make changes in 2021, with a managerial baton also changing hands.

Zinedine Zidane walked away from the final year of his contract at the end of last season, clearing a path for Italian tactician Ancelotti to return to the Bernabeu for a second spell.

Pacheco was with the Blancos during his last stint, which delivered a fabled La Decima Champions League triumph, and believes a coach with a distinguished CV will succeed in the most demanding of roles.

He said when asked if Ancelotti's return was something of a surprise: "No, because the year I was with him he seemed like a top coach. His career supports it. 

"He seemed to me to be a trainer with phenomenal know-how about how to manage a locker room. He treated me very well and I am very grateful to him."

Further reading

(Originally posted by Mario Cortegana)
  241 Hits

Pulisic, McKennie on USMNT squad for friendlies

The Ruaraka-based charges make a return to the continent's elite club competition for the first time since 2017, but how did they perform before?
(Originally posted by Seth Willis)
  200 Hits

LIVE: Manchester United vs Leeds

Bruno Fernandes' strike has handed Manchester United a 1-0 lead over Leeds United at the break in their Premier League clash at Old Trafford. The Portuguese broke the deadlock after being played through the visitors' defence by Paul Pogba. His finish was good enough to beat Illan Meslier, and at the moment it separates the two sides ahead of a crucial 45 minutes.

45' + 1' HALF-TIME: MANCHESTER UNITED 1-0 LEEDS UNITED

45' There will be one minute of added time.

45' United probe on the edge of the box as Pogba feeds James. He cuts inside on his right foot, but can only send a tame effort at Meslier.

42' McTominay attacks a deep cross from Fernandes to the back post from a United corner, but he can only nod his effort down and wide amid pressure from a number of Leeds defenders.

40' Since his competition debut in February 2020, Fernandes has been directly involved in 46 Premier League goals (27 goals, 19 assists), two more than any other player in this time

39' Fred loses possession for the hosts and it allows Klich to drive forward. Bamford makes a good run, but the Pole overhits his pass out for a goal-kick.

36' Shaw continues to be a threat for the hosts. He makes another great run forward and this time supplies James. The Welshman gets the ball out of his feet before skewing his effort wide of the target.

34' Leeds attack to hit back as Bamford floats a cross-field pass towards Raphinha. He takes a touch before firing a left-footed effort towards goal, only to see it charged down by Maguire.

33' WIDE! Shaw combines with Fernandes down the left flank and he goes for goal from a tight angle, only to smash his attempt into the side-netting.

30' Fernandes races forward and shifts to his right. He angles a perfect low ball towards the run of Greenwood in the box, but the forward just cannot connect on the slide.

29' Fernandes takes possession and looks up. He spots the run of James, but just overhits his throughball for his team-mate.

27' Pogba skips past one challenge and has space in the Leeds half. However, he connects with a poor strike that trickles into Meslier's hands.

26' CHANCE! Raphinha whips the ball into the box with pace towards the run of Rodrigo. The Spaniard fails to connect, but Bamford stretches to angle a header towards goal that travels wide of the left post.

25' Harrison gets caught on the ankle by Fred and the referee awards the Whites a free-kick in a useful position in the final third.

24' Pogba and Fernandes almost combine to great effect on the edge of the Leeds box. Koch makes a vital interception to prevent the Portuguese from connecting with his team-mates' headed lay-off.

22' Raphinha tries to beat the challenge of Maguire down the right flank, but the United defender holds firm and concedes only a corner.

20' James breaks into the right-inside channel and forces a low ball across the face of goal, but Cooper is in the right place to intercept and clear for the visitors.

19' Maguire takes a chance as he takes his time over a backpass. He offloads to De Gea just before Bamford arrives to close him down.

17' CHANCE! De Gea gets down smartly to repel an effort from Klich. The midfielder collects an offload from Harrison and takes a touch past McTominay. He curls a strike on his right foot towards the bottom-right corner. However, the Spaniard is alert and pushes it behind.

16' SAVE! Harrison latches on to a loose clearance from the hosts and has a strike on the half-volley that De Gea has to backpedal then claim on the line.

15' Raphinha has space to stretch his legs on the right flank and he angles a dangerous low ball into the box that Lindelof has to stab behind.

12' CHANCE! Greenwood surges through the Leeds midfield and has space to find Pogba through on goal. The Frenchman only needs to beat Meslier, but he slots his left-footed strike wide of the left post. A poor miss from the United man.

11' Maguire rises to connect with a corner from the left flank from Shaw, but he can only help his effort wide of the target.

9' Klich collects an offload from Rodrigo on the edge of the box, but he sees his effort charged down before it can threaten.

8' Rodrigo releases Klich into the right-inside channel and he clips a cross towards the near post. McTominay tracks back and has to clear behind ahead of the lurking presence of Bamford.

6' Greenwood twists and turns to open up space for a strike at goal, but he sends a fairly tame effort into the hands of Meslier from 25 yards.

4' Shaw hangs a cross into a middle, but Meslier comes off his line to ease the pressure on his defence with a fantastic claim.

3' United keep the pressure on after Meslier punches the first corner away. The home side win a second set-piece down the left flank.

2' Fernandes plays McTominay into space in the right-inside channel. He goes for the strike at goal, only to see his effort diverted behind by Cooper on the slide.

1' We're under way at Old Trafford.

Manchester United and Leeds United are set to face in their opening top-flight league matches of the season for the first time since 1970-71, with Leeds winning 1-0 at Old Trafford with a goal from Mick Jones ahead of finishing runners-up in the league that season.

Leeds also resist the opportunity to hand a debut from the off to Firpo, who starts on the bench. The Whites are without Diego Llorente, which sees Cooper, Struijk and Koch start in the backline. Phillips is not thrown straight back in after his summer exploits with England at the Euros. Dallas and Klich start in the middle of the park with Raphinha and Ayling on the flanks. Rodrigo, Harrison and Bamford lead the line this afternoon.

Solskjaer opts against starting Sancho from the off, while the deal for Varane has just been finalised leaving the Frenchman to wait. United start with a familiar look, although Edinson Cavani is missing due to personal reasons and Marcus Rashford is sidelined with a shoulder injury. Greenwood spearheads the attack, supported by Fernandes, Pogba and James. De Gea starts between the posts while Dean Henderson is out after testing positive for Covid-19 along with Jesse Lingard.

LEEDS UNITED SUBS: Junior Firpo, Adam Forshaw, Tyler Roberts, Kristoffer Klaesson, Helder Costa, Kalvin Phillips, Crysencio Summerville, Sam Greenwood, Jamie Shackleton.

LEEDS UNITED (3-4-3): Illan Meslier; Pascal Struijk, Robin Koch, Liam Cooper; Luke Ayling, Stuart Dallas, Mateusz Klich, Raphinha; Rodrigo Moreno, Jack Harrison, Patrick Bamford.

MANCHESTER UNITED SUBS: Juan Mata, Anthony Martial, Andreas Pereira, Diogo Dalot, Tom Heaton, Jadon Sancho, Nemanja Matic, Brandon Williams, Donny van de Beek.

MANCHESTER UNITED (4-2-3-1): David de Gea; Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Victor Lindelof, Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw; Scott McTominay, Fred; Paul Pogba, Bruno Fernandes, Daniel James; Mason Greenwood. 

Leeds United were extremely impressive in their return to the Premier League last term. After 17 seasons out of the top flight, the Whites made a lot of noise in their comeback by finishing ninth in the table. Marcelo Bielsa's team did not disappoint and even ended their season on a high note reeling off four-straight wins. Bielsa and the club's hierarchy will be determined to build on their success. They completed a permanent move for Jack Harrison and signed Junior Firpo, but there is still work to be done to take the next step this term.

Manchester United kick off the campaign aiming to end their drought without the Premier League crown. It has been eight years since the Red Devils were last triumphant, and although they finished second last term, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and his men were well off the pace of Manchester City. The Norwegian has bolstered his ranks with the signings of Jadon Sancho and Raphael Varane, and he will be hopeful that the new blood and a fast start will close the gap to their rivals at the top.

Good afternoon and welcome to the live commentary of the Premier League clash between Manchester United and Leeds United at Old Trafford.

  333 Hits

Mwepu reveals Daka inspiration ahead of expected Brighton & Hove Albion debut

The Zambia star is also hoping to emulate his icon Yaya Toure and achieve greater heights

Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Enock Mwepu has conceded Patson Daka has been his inspiration in football.

The Zambia national team duo will be dining with the big boys in the Premier League this season after recent moves from initial teams. While Mwepu joined the Seagulls from Red Bull Salzburg, Daka was snapped up by Leicester City from the Austrian charges too.

"We met in 2014 when we were playing in a provincial game where they were trying to identify talents in Zambia. We’ve really helped each other," Mwepu recalls as quoted by The Sun.

"I used to tell him that he was my inspiration because he’s the first guy in our group to play in all tournaments, from Under-17s, Under-20s and the national team. He was always ahead of me and I’m always following him. I look up to him and say, ‘If he can achieve this, I can as well.’" 

The 23-year-old is hoping to achieve more than his Icon Yaya Toure who played for Barcelona and Manchester City.

"Yaya Toure has been my inspiration. Being compared to such an icon is a great achievement. I just want to work extra hard and hopefully achieve more than the things he achieved," Mwepu continued.

At Salzburg, the midfielder played with the now Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Braut Haaland. He has explained how his early days were before eventually leaving for the German Bundesliga. 

"When Haaland came, we thought, ‘Who is this striker?’ He didn’t seem to be very aggressive, strong, and all that. He was just a striker who was there so we didn’t consider him that much. He didn’t play many games," Mwepu recalled.

"But then in that six months [before Haaland joined Borussia Dortmund, he was exceptional. He put everything out in him. It was exceptional playing with him, he was much more aggressive, he showed he was ready to compete and of course, he has the self-confidence in him which I like about him. 

"In training, he is the owner of the training. He is going to smash the defenders, he’s going to score goals. That’s what made him to be where he is. I don’t know what changed. Everyone will tell you the same. Maybe it’s the confidence that the coach gave him or something like that."

Mwepu is expected to make his debut for his new team against Burnley on Saturday. 

(Originally posted by Seth Willis)
  275 Hits

Norwich vs Liverpool: TV channel, live stream, team news & preview

The Reds face the newly promoted Canaries on the opening weekend of the Premier League season

Liverpool are hoping to get their 2021-22 Premier League campaign underway with a win when they travel to Carrow Road to face Norwich on Saturday.

Watch Norwich vs Liverpool on fuboTV (free 7-day trial)

Jurgen Klopp knows that three points is a must at this early stage of the season to challenge the likes of Manchester City, Chelsea and Manchester United for the title.

Ahead of the game, Goal has the details of how to watch on TV, stream online, team news and more.

TV channel, live stream & how to watch

In the United States (US), Premier League matches can be watched live and on-demand with fuboTV (watch with a 7-day free trial).

New users can sign up for a free seven-day trial of the live sports streaming service, which can be accessed via iOS, Android, Chromecast, Amazon Fire TV, Roku and Apple TV as well as on a web browser.

Team news & rosters

Position Norwich roster
Goalkeepers Krul, Gunn, McGovern
Defenders Aarons, Byram, Gibson, Hanley, Zimmermann, Mumba, Omobamidele
Midfielders Rupp, Gilmour, Dowell, Placheta, Cantwell, Rashica, Sorensen, Lees-Melou, McLean, Hernandez
Forwards Hugill, Pukki, Sargent, Idah

Todd Cantwell and Lukas Rupp both have foot injuries which could keep them out of Norwich's opening game of the season.

New signings Christos Tzolis and Josh Sargent are not expected to start, having only joined the Canaries in the past week.

However, Milot Rashica could be handed a place in the starting XI after moving from Werder Bremen this summer.

Predicted Norwich starting XI:  Krul; Aarons, Hanley, Gibson, Giannoulis; Rupp, Gilmour, Lees-Melou; Rashica, Pukki, Cantwell.

  Liverpool roster
Goalkeepers Alisson, Adrian, Karius, Kelleher
Defenders Van Dijk, Konate, Gomez, Tsimikas, Robertson, Davies, Matip, R. Williams, Phillips, Alexander-Arnold, N. Williams
Midfielders Fabinho, Thiago, Milner, Keita, Henderson, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Jones, Shaqiri, Ojo, Woodburn
Forwards Firmino, Mane, Salah, Diogo Jota, Origi, Elliott

Kostas Tsimikas is likely to start after impressing in pre-season, slotting in at left-back instead of the injured Andy Robertson.

Joe Gomez has just returned from injury and may not be risked alongside Virgil van Dijk in defence, while Curtis Jones has been ruled out with a head injury.

Jurgen Klopp will have a difficult decision up front, deciding whether to start Roberto Firmino or Diogo Jota.

Predicted Liverpool starting XI: Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Tsimikas; Fabinho, Keita, Milner; Salah, Jota, Mane.

Last five results

Norwich results Liverpool results
Newcastle 3-0 Norwich (Aug 7) Liverpool 3-1 Osasuna (Aug 9)
Norwich 5-0 Gillingham (Aug 3) Liverpool 1-1 Athletic Club (Aug 8)
Norwich 2-0 Huddersfield (Jul 23) Hertha Berlin 4-3 Liverpool (Jul 29)
Norwich 1-0 Lincoln (Jul 20) Liverpool 1-0 Mainz (Jul 23)
King's Lynn 1-3 Norwich (Jul 16) Liverpool 2-0 Crystal Palace (May 23)

Head-to-head

Date Result
2/15/2020 Norwich 0-1 Liverpool
8/9/2019 Liverpool 4-1 Norwich
1/23/2016 Norwich 4-5 Liverpool
9/20/2015 Liverpool 1-1 Norwich
4/20/2014 Norwich 2-3 Liverpool
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'Ronaldo would be dying to be here' - Di Maria says Messi deal is 'much better' for PSG

The Argentina international who has played alongside two all-time greats is delighted to have his fellow countryman with him in France

Paris Saint-Germain winger Angel Di Maria claims "Cristiano Ronaldo would be dying to be here", with the Portuguese superstar among those watching from afar as the Ligue 1 giants pulled off the considerable coup of signing Lionel Messi.

One all-time great has arrived in the French capital, with six-time Ballon d'Or winner Messi committing to a two-year deal at Parc des Princes after seeing Barcelona fail to agree a new contract amid serious financial difficulties at Camp Nou.

PSG had previously been linked with Ronaldo as he enters the final year of his terms at Juventus, but the iconic 36-year-old has, for now, missed out on the chance to join forces with his on-field rival.

What has been said?

Argentina forward Di Maria, who has played alongside both legendary performers on domestic and international stages, told TyC Sports: "Cristiano Ronaldo would be dying to be here. The quality and quantity of players at PSG is something unique.

"It doesn’t happen often in clubs and the greats always want to be with the best. Cristiano would certainly like to be here, but they signed Messi and luckily, it’s better this way."

Di Maria, who worked with Ronaldo at Real Madrid, added on his fellow countryman who has joined him in France: "Messi is of another category. You throw a stone at him and he stops it, he does it as if it was nothing. He thinks before the others.

"I have never seen anything like it. I have played with Cristiano, Neymar, [Kylian] Mbappe, [Wayne] Rooney, [Robin] van Persie, [Zlatan] Ibrahimovic, [Karim] Benzema, [Gareth] Bale and honestly, I have never seen anything like it.

"Leo is something unique. For me, it’s very easy to play with him. If you run, he gives you the ball at your feet. There are no excuses. I have a very good relationship with him, even off the pitch.

"I think Messi will feel better here than in Catalunya. With the welcome he has had in Paris, I think he already understands what he represents."

What of those left behind at Barcelona?

Few could have predicted that Messi would sever ties with the only club side that he represented at senior level.

One man that expected him to remain at Camp Nou was Sergio Aguero, with the Argentina international striker leaving Manchester City as a free agent to head for Spain.

He has now seen Messi depart, while also picking up an untimely injury, and Di Maria admits the 33-year-old will be kicking himself.

He added: "Kun wants to kill himself, what can you do? Apart from all that [Messi leaving], the worst thing is that he got injured again and will be out for several weeks. That's the saddest thing."

Further reading

(Originally posted by Chris Burton)
  241 Hits

Arsenal unveil Arsene Wenger statue outside Emirates Stadium

The Belgian made a return to the Blues hoping to have a better spell as opposed to the initial one where he struggled to leave a mark

Ex-Ghana attacker Yahaya Mohammed believes Romelu Lukaku has made a mistake to return to Chelsea.

The Blues completed the signing of the Belgian from Inter for £98 million ($136m), with the striker returning to Stamford Bridge for a second spell after two years in Italy.

The 28-year-old who took in his first stint with the Blues between 2011 and 2014, signed a five-year deal with the European champions that will see him remain in West London until 2026. 

However, the Aduana Stars forward believes the move for the towering ex-Manchester United player is not right.

"I really love him so much that they called me Lukaku too in Ghana," Mohammed stated on his official social media account. 

"[It] is a mistake for him to move back to where he did [not] make it before. I am really scared for him."

In Lukaku's first stint at Chelsea, he played 10 matches, failing to hit the back of the net. He was loaned to West Bromwich Albion and later on Everton. The latter, later on, made his deal permanent.

In 2017, Manchester United came for his signature, but his inconsistent displays saw him get offloaded to Inter Milan where he became an instant hit, scoring 47 goals in 72 matches.

The Red Devil is optimistic the second stint will be better for him as the Londoners aim at winning the Premier League title this season.

"I’m happy and blessed to be back at this wonderful club,’ said Lukaku in a statement on the club's official website. "It’s been a long journey for me: I came here as a kid who had a lot to learn, now I’m coming back with a lot of experience and more mature.

"The relationship I have with this club means so much to me, as you know. I have supported Chelsea as a kid and now to be back and try to help them win more titles is an amazing feeling.

"The way the club is going fits my ambitions perfectly at 28 and just coming off winning Serie A. I think this opportunity comes at the right time and hopefully, we can have a lot of success together.

"Since I left Chelsea, it’s been a long journey with a lot of ups and downs, but these experiences made me strong and the challenge is to try to help the team win some more trophies. I can’t wait to get started and to help the club achieve more success."

(Originally posted by Seth Willis)
  183 Hits

Pep Guardiola insists Kevin De Bruyne can still play better

The 22-year-old will be in contention to start when the Foxes open their campaign with a home game against Wolves

Leicester City have confirmed Zambia forward Patson Daka will wear jersey 29 for the 2021-2022 season.

The 22-year-old joined the Foxes from Red Bull Salzburg in Austria and has already won the hearts of the club's fans after a superb second-half display in the team’s 1-0 win against Manchester City in the FA Community Shield.

Ahead of Leicester’s season opener against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday, the club has discussed Daka's jersey.

“Ahead of the opening weekend of the 2021-22 Premier League season, Leicester City’s first-team squad numbers have now been confirmed,” the club revealed in a statement on their official website.

“Harvey Barnes will wear the no.7 shirt for the new campaign, while new signing Ryan Bertrand will wear the no.5 shirt previously worn by Wes Morgan.

“Meanwhile, fellow new arrivals Patson [Daka], Boubakary Soumare, and Jannik Vestergaard will wear the no.29, no.42, and no.23 shirts respectively.”

In a recent interview, Leicester manager Brendan Rodgers explained he will look to maximise the output of his three strikers - Daka, Jamie Vardy, and Kelechi Iheanacho.

On whether he will give Vardy some break, Rodgers told Leicestershire Live: “Yeah, that was the whole reason for bringing Patson in. He is very similar to Jamie in his traits. He wants to run in off the back-line, and he’s a great finisher.

“All of those players – Patson, Jamie, Kels – we’re going to need all of them. It’s a long season, hopefully, lots of games, and there’s not one of them who’s going to play in every single game.

“You want to be able to maximise their talents, bring them on in games, start them in games. Bringing Patson in gives us that extra flexibility to do that.”

Rodgers further admitted he was already impressed working with Daka by stating: “I've got to say since he's come in he's just been non-stop smiling.

“He's so happy to be here. He's got a real freshness about life and he's just so happy to be in the Premier League and loves being here at Leicester.

"He's a first-class young man.”

(Originally posted by Dennis Mabuka)
  390 Hits

Source: McKennie at Leeds to undergo medical

Having failed to retain Lionel Messi, the Blaugrana have at least managed to register several key faces ahead of the season opener this weekend

Barcelona have confirmed the registration of Memphis Depay for La Liga's new season, alongside Eric Garcia and Rey Manaj, after Gerard Pique agreed to a significant salary reduction.

The Blaugrana have found themselves attempting to balance the books to conform with the league's financial rules this summer, having already failed to re-sign Lionel Messi owing to fiscal limitations.

Those limitations had seen them unable to register several of their new recruits ahead of the 2021-22 campaign, but on the eve of the season, the club has now confirmed at least three of their transfer window arrivals are now registered to play.

What has been said?

"Barcelona is able to register Memphis, Eric Garcia and Rey Manaj to play in the Spanish Liga de Futbol Profesional," the Catalan outfit confirmed in a statement on Saturday.

"This has been made possible thanks to an agreement with Gerard Pique whereby the Barca second captain’s salary has been substantially reduced.

"This means that all of the first team players will be available for selection by Ronald Koeman for this Sunday’s opening Liga fixture against Real Sociedad."

Barca seek further reductions

Aside from Messi - who as a free agent, did not serve to ease to the club's financial woes - the Blaugrana have already offloaded Jean-Clair Todibo, Junior Firpo and Trincao among others this summer.

But further cuts are still required, with Sergio Aguero still not registered and Barca further confirmed that they were in conversations with other senior figures Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba over a reduction to their wage packets too.

"The club is also continuing to work with two of the other captains, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, to adapt their salaries to the club’s current situation," they added, "It must be noted that both players are totally and utterly willing to cooperate."

The bigger picture

Barca kick off their pursuit of silverware this Sunday when they take on Sociedad at Camp Nou, as they aim to dethrone Atletico Madrid at the top of the Spanish football pyramid.

Having claimed Copa del Rey success in coach Koeman's first season at the helm last term, they will be determined to ensure that they start life after Messi on the right foot.

The Argentine's absence is likely to cast a long shadow over the coming season, however, while the club continues to contend with its financial woes and the fallout of the European Super League project.

Further reading

  290 Hits

Guardiola, Walker hold talks over alleged flashing

Stay right up to date with Goal's live commentary coverage of the biggest games from around the globe
  191 Hits

Vieira: Crystal Palace fortunate to have Zaha in the squad

The former Arsenal captain is happy to have the Ivorian winger in his squad ahead of the new season

Crystal Palace coach Patrick Vieira has explained his happiness at having winger Wilfried Zaha in his squad for the new campaign.

The Ivory Coast player has always been the subject of transfer speculation in the last three windows with Arsenal and Everton having been linked for his services but it never materialized.

Ahead of Palace’s Premier League opener against Chelsea, the former Arsenal midfielder has explained the importance of having Zaha in his squad.

“He’s been fantastic,” Vieira told the club’s official website. “He’s been a leader like I was expecting.

“A leader on and off the field. He’s I believe one of the best players in this league and we’re fortunate to have a player like that in our squad.”

The French tactician will take charge of his first game against Chelsea, and speaking on what to expect, he said: “Thomas [Tuchel] is one of the great managers in Europe, really strong team around him.

"Chelsea are playing great football and it will be a challenging game for us, but as I said, we are up for it, we are believing in ourselves and we are up for the difficulty we will face.

“This football club has some values. I think when you look at the way this team conducted themselves in the last couple of years, fighting to stay in the Premier League, hard work is part of the DNA of the football club. That’s something we have to keep.

“It’s important for me to implement the vision I have of the game. We have exciting young players in our football club and it’s important for me to manage them to play at the level I know they can do and hopefully help us play some good football.”

On the team’s squad and fitness, Vieira said: “We all know about the long-term injuries. So far everybody is feeling good and is ready to start the season.

“We’re going to do our last training this afternoon and he [Joachim Andersen] will be part of the squad for the first game.

“Michael Olise is feeling better and in the next two weeks will be starting work on the field. Luka [Milivojevic] is not going to be with us for the game against Chelsea.

“He’s been missing in the last couple of days for personal reasons.”

(Originally posted by Dennis Mabuka)
  239 Hits

Mamelodi Sundowns Predicted XI: How Masandawana could start against AmaZulu

The West African was substituted with 10 minutes to go and had played his part for the Bees' historic win

Ex-Arsenal and Chelsea attacker Karen Carney was left impressed with the way Super Eagles midfielder Frank Onyeka played in the 2-0 win over the Gunners on his Premier League debut.

The Nigeria international moved to the promoted side on a five-year deal from FC Midtjylland in July and was partnering Vitaly Janelt in strengthening the Bees’ midfield.

His impact was effective as he helped to control the midfield department as Sergi Canos completed Ethan Pinnock's pass in the 22nd minute to send the home fans into a frenzy. The second goal came in the 73rd minute courtesy of Christian Norgaard.

In the 80th minute, he was replaced and his position taken over by Mads Bidstrup. But he had done enough according to the 34-year-old former winger who was on duty for the Premier League World Feed commentary.

"He has done well, made forward passing runs, earned him a standing ovation. Solid first performance from him," Carney stated.

Prior to Friday's match, Onyeka delivered impressive performances for the 2021 Championship play-off winners in pre-season friendly outings against Valencia and Manchester United.

Meanwhile, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta admitted that Arsenal fully deserved their season-opening loss on Friday. Despite outshooting and out-possessing the hosts on Friday, Arsenal left with nothing to show for it after struggling to truly test a team that played in the Championship last season.

"I am disappointed, we started the season against a good opponent," he told BT Sport.

"I don’t think we deserved anything different. They scored from a long throw-in and we didn’t have enough presence in the box."

Arteta also commented on Brentford's second goal where he felt Bernd Leno was fouled.

"It’s allowed in the Premier League, he cannot move. I can’t change it now. The first goal gave them some hope. We wanted to play better in the second half but we need many more shots on target, then we conceded on a set-piece. 

"A lot of young boys were doing everything they can. For some of them, it was the first experience in the league – that says a lot."

Original author: Seth Willis
  235 Hits

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