Wednesday 28 May 2014
Tuesday 27 May 2014
See all of Ronaldo's goals in a record-breaking Champions League campaign
The Real Madrid forward scored his 17th goal in this season's tournament as his side sealed a historic 10th European crown, the best ever haul in a single campaign
Thursday 22 May 2014
Wednesday 21 May 2014
England win Under-17 European Championship
John Peacock's men defeated the Netherlands comprehensively in a penalty shootout in Malta to claim the country's second title at this level in the last five years
England have won the Under-17 European Championship by beating Netherlands on penalties in Malta.
Chelsea striker Dominic Solanke gave John Peacock's men the lead with an opportunistic strike on 25 minutes, but Jari Schuurman brought the Dutch level with a clinical volley five minutes before the break.
After a goalless second half the match went straight to penalties, with Dani van der Moot and Calvin Verdonk missing while Ryan Ledson, Taylor Moore, Callum Cooke and Jonjoe Kenny all converted for England.
The victory gives England their second European title at under-17 level, after a side boasting Ross Barkley, Connor Wickham, Josh McEachran and Andre Wisdom triumphed over Spain in Liechstenstein in 2010.
Wisdom and Wickham scored in that final, and English fans will be hoping several of the class of 2014 can go on to forge distinguished careers in the Premier League.
Fulham winger Patrick Roberts appears to have a particularly bright future, and it was his tormenting corner which caused the defensive scramble which ended with Solanke firing England in front.
It was the Chelsea man's fourth goal of the tournament, ultimately tying him at the top of the tournament scoring charts with Schuurman in a month which also saw him net the winning goal in the Blues' thrilling FA Youth Cup final win over a Roberts-inspired Fulham, and lift the trophy along with fellow England starlet Isaiah Brown.
Victory on penalties will be particularly satisfying for long-suffering England fans, who will hope it proves a good omen for the senior Three Lions squad when they begin their World Cup campaign in Brazil next month.
The result also brought a measure of revenge for Peacock's men, who had earlier lost to Netherlands 2-0 in the group stage of the competition.
source: goal.com
Sunday 18 May 2014
Arsenal 3-2 Hull City (AET): Late Ramsey winner seals FA Cup
The Welshman stepped up to the plate in the second half of extra-time, tucking home Olivier Giroud's pass to complete a memorable cup final comeback for the Gunners
Arsenal ended their nine-year trophy drought thanks to Aaron Ramsey's extra-time winner as the Gunners came from 2-0 down to defeat Hull and win the FA Cup.
The Welshman prodded home a backheel from Olivier Giroud in the second period of extra-time to condemn Steve Bruce's side to a 3-2 loss at Wembley.
Arsene Wenger's side were stunned by Hull, who scored twice inside the opening eight minutes, first through a reaction flick from James Chester before Curtis Davies cooly slotted home from a tight angle.
Santi Cazorla reduced the deficit soon after with a long-range free kick with Laurent Koscielny equalising 19 minutes from time before Ramsey claimed the cup in the closing moments.
Fabianski kept his regular cup berth between the posts, despite doubts over his future with the Emirates Stadium club, while Chester recovered from a hamstring injury in time to step into a new-look Hull back line.
Chester's inclusion proved to be an inspired decision from manager Steve Bruce as the defender stunned Arsenal fans into silence by breaking the deadlock in the fourth minute.
A low 20-yard strike by Huddlestone fizzed towards Chester's feet, and his touch in the centre of the penalty area was enough to send the ball beyond an outstretched Fabianski, finding its way in off the left-hand upright.
In the absence of cup-tied forward pairing Shane Long and Nikica Jelavic, it was Hull's defenders running riot in the opening stages.
Fabianski leapt to his left to keep out an Alex Bruce header, before fellow centre-back Davies rifled home from a tight angle, though question marks were raised over the positioning of the free-kick that led to the goal.
Another Alex Bruce header from a corner threatened to make it a defensive hat-trick for the underdogs, but Kieran Gibbs came to Arsenal's rescue on the goalline.
There was no let-up in the action, and Arsenal were right back in the tie in the 18th minute.
Cazorla curled a 25-yard free-kick into the top right-hand corner of the net - Hull keeper Allan McGregor wrong-footed by the Spaniard's stunning strike.
There was a nervous edge to the match after the break, and Giroud felt he should have been awarded a penalty in the 58th minute after having his shoulder held by Huddlestone.
Further penalty shouts followed as Jake Livermore appeared to handle from a Yaya Sanogo header and Cazorla was felled by Davies, but referee Lee Probert was unmoved by the appeals.
After looking the more likely to find the net in the second period, Arsenal finally pulled level, Koscielny turning the ball in from close range in the aftermath of a contentious corner.
An unmarked Gibbs should have sealed the trophy for Arsenal in the 79th minute, but the full-back blazed over from close range when it appeared easier to score, and McGregor got down well to deny Giroud from 18 yards three minutes later.
Substitute Sanogo sent a strike whistling wide of the left-hand post before the end of 90 minutes, and Giroud rattled the crossbar in the opening stages of the additional period.
The match looked to be heading for penalties as the tempo of the game dropped, but Ramsey popped up to end nine years of hurt for Arsenal and Wenger, though Fabianski's late charge off the line had many a heart in mouth as Sone Aluko's effort drifted agonisingly across the face of goal.
source: goal.com
Friday 16 May 2014
Manchester City fined €60m by Uefa for breaching FFP regulations
Manuel Pellegrini's squad for next season's Champions League has been restricted to 21 players, while the club have agreed to significantly reduce their transfer spend
Manchester City have been fined €60 million [£49m] by Uefa and will see their squad reduced to 21 players for next season’s Champions League for breaching Financial Fair Play regulations.
The club's €60m fine will be withheld from the Champions League revenue generated from this season and next term, while €40m [£32.5m] has been suspended and will be returned to City if they comply with the financial measures set by Uefa.
City, who have accepted the sanctions from Uefa, have also agreed to "significantly limit spending in the transfer market for seasons 2014/2015 and 2015/2016" and will restrict their net spend in this summer's window to €60m.
City insist the spending limit on new players "will have no material impact on the club’s planned transfer activity".
Despite posting figures outside the financial regulations, City maintain their wage bill will remain the same next season but claim there will be a “natural decline” after that period.
City revealed in a statement that they are now break even and will be profitable next season.
Uefa confirms that if the club meet their break-even target, the 21-man squad restriction will be lifted for the 2015/16 campaign.
As well as City, Paris Saint-Germain, Zenit St Petersburg, Rubin Kazan, Anzhi Makhachkala, Galatasaray, Bursaspor, Trabzonspor and Levski Sofia all failed to meet FFP regulations and have been sanctioned.
Tuesday 13 May 2014
Nasri omitted from France World Cup squad
The 26-year-old has been left out by Didier Deschamps despite playing a key role as Manchester City won the Premier League title and Capital One Cup this season
Manchester City playmaker Samir Nasri has been omitted from France’s provisional 30-man squad for the World Cup.
The 26-year-old – who scored in Sunday’s Premier League title-winning victory over West Ham – is one of a number of changes to les Blues from Euro 2012, with only 11 players remaining in Didier Deschamps' squad.
The France boss said of Nasri: “He has an important status with City, where he starts, which is not the case today in the France team. When he is substituted, he is not happy. It is for these reasons that I decided not to retain him.”
There is plenty of Premier League representation, with nine players currently playing in English football-s top-flight – including Arsenal trio Laurent Koscielny, Bacary Sagna and Olivier Giroud.
Southampton midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin, meanwhile, yet to capped by his nation, has been included as one of the seven players on the standby list.
Goalkeepers: Hugo Lloris (Tottenham), Steve Mandanda (Marseille), Mickael Landreau (Bastia)
Defenders: Raphael Varane (Real Madrid), Mamadou Sakho (Liverpool), Mathieu Debuchy (Newcastle), Laurent Koscielny (Arsenal), Lucas Digne (PSG), Eliaquim Mangala (Porto), Bacary Sagna (Arsenal), Patrice Evra (Manchester United).
Midfield: Yohan Cabaye (PSG), Paul Pogba (Juventus), Blaise Matuidi (PSG), Moussa Sissoko (Newcastle), Clement Grenier (Lyon), Rio Mavuba (Lille), Mathieu Valbuena (Marseille).
Forwards: Karim Benzema (Real Madrid), Franck Ribery (Bayern Munich), Antoine Griezmann (Real Sociedad), Olivier Giroud (Arsenal), Loic Remy (Newcastle).
Reserve: Remy Cabella (Montpellier), Maxime Gonalons (Lyon), Alexandre Lacazette (Lyon), Loic Perrin (Saint-Etienne), Stephane Ruffier (Saint-Etienne), Morgan Schneiderlin (Southampton), Benoit Tremoulinas (Saint-Etienne).
source: goal.com
Monday 12 May 2014
Liverpool: 2013-14 season in statistics
Liverpool seasonal stats
Game: 38
won: 26
Drawn: 6
Lost: 6
game win %: 68.4
position: 2
Goals conceded: 50 @ 1.3 per game
Clean sheets: 10
Penalties conceded: 4
tackles: 846, tackles won: 640
total shots: 521, 258 on target 101 goals scored 33.9 mnt per goals
penalties Scored: 10, 2 missed
13 goals outside box, 6 set pices, 82 inside box
54 yellow card 1 red card
Sunday 11 May 2014
Goal Manchester City 2-0 West Ham United
Goals from Samir Nasri and captain Vincent Kompany either side of half-time saw Manuel Pellegrini's men secure a comprehensive victory that crowed them Premier League champions
Ronaldo in astonishing gesture as he pays for the operation of 10-month old baby
Cristiano Ronaldo has shown his soft side by offering to pay for the operation of a 10 month old baby born with a neurological disorder.
Erik Ortiz Cruz suffers up to 30 epileptic fits a day and surgery is the only solution to his condition.
The boy’s family have been unable to meet massive hospital bills with each test carried out costing around £5,020 (6,000 euros) and surgery likely to run to £50,240 (60,000 euros).
So big-hearted Ronaldo, touched by the boy’s local community’s attempts to raise the money themselves, has stepped in to fund the life changing medical care.
The player was at first asked to donate boots and a shirt to a fund-raising auction but decided to go the extra mile and foot the bill.
Earlier in the year Ronaldo celebrated his Ballon D’Or win with children suffering from Leukaemia keeping a promise made on Spanish radio last year.
Ronaldo met the children on radio Cope show Partido de la 12 in November and said if he won he would celebrate with them.
Following the celebrations he spoke to one of the children – who will have an operation this month – and told the youngster: ‘Don’t worry I have not forgotten’.
Celta 2-0 Real Madrid: Charles double ends Ancelotti's men's title hopes
The Brazilian attacker netted twice to end the Santiago Bernabeu side's hopes of winning the domestic league, with Barcelona and Atletico Madrid set to face off in a decider
Celta have recorded a 2-0 surprise win over Real Madrid at the Balaidos in Sunday evening's La Liga encounter to end the away side's title dreams.
Charles opened the scoring shortly before the break after some sloppy defending from Sergio Ramos and the striker got his second goal of the game around the hour mark to effectively put the match to bed.
Back-to-back draws with Valencia and Real Valladolid left Madrid needing to win their two remaining fixtures and hope that Atletico - with a better head-to-head record against their city rivals - slipped up in both of theirs.
But despite Atletico only drawing at home to Malaga, Carlo Ancelotti's men are now out of the running after failing to do their part.
Real's defenders were their chief culprits, as mistakes from Sergio Ramos and Marcelo helped Charles to perhaps the simplest double of his career.
All eyes will now turn to the Camp Nou, where defending champions Barcelona will host Atletico in a mouth-watering championship decider next weekend.
Barcelona, who are three points adrift in second, will win the league with a victory while Atletico need only to avoid defeat.
Real were hampered from the off, with a thigh injury ensuring that Cristiano Ronaldo could not even take a place on the bench.
Fellow big-money recruit Gareth Bale was among the substitutes, while Sami Khedira started a game for the first time since damaging knee ligaments in November.
It was the visitors who started on the front foot, their first opening coming when Marcelo's powerful half-volley was deflected just wide.
But Celta began to press thereafter, with Fabian Orellana looking particularly threatening.
Ancelotti's side defended impressively to weather that spell without giving up any real chances and gradually began to impose their will on the game.
Their attacking intent almost led to an opener in the 35th minute, Isco forcing a superb reaction save from Sergio Alvarez with a low effort.
Another chance went begging when Alvaro Morata fired Marcelo's low cross wide - and Real were left to rue their profligacy as the home side took the lead three minutes before the break.
Ramos was the culprit, his slip leaving Charles to round Diego Lopez and slide the ball into the empty net from a tight angle.
As expected, Real came out positively after the break and almost levelled matters when Luka Modric shot over in the process of being brought down in the area by Jon Aurtenetxe, the referee turning down strong penalty appeals.
Undeterred, the visitors pressed forward further, with Morata and Isco again testing Alvarez.
But the latter's chance, in which he shot straight at the goalkeeper, prompted an immediate reply as Celta increased their lead.
Marcelo was at fault this time, selling Lopez short with an awful back-pass that allowed Charles to nip in and grab his second.
Real pushed desperately to get back into it late on, but the inspired Alvarez combined with some dogged defending to keep them out.
source: goal.com
MANCHESTER CITY ARE THE 2013/14 PREMIER LEAGUE CHAMPIONS!
Manchester City 2–0 West Ham: Nasri & Kompany secure Premier League title
Manuel Pellegrini's side dominated from the first minute as they conquered any lingering nerves to secure their second league title in three seasons with a fine attacking display
Nor 0 - 2 Ars
Hul 0 - 2 Eve
Sun 1 - 3 Swa
Tot 3 - 0 AST
Ful 2 - 2 CRY
Liv 2 - 1 New
Sot 1 - 1 MNU
Car 1 - 2 Che
WBA 1 - 2 Sto
Manchester City wrapped up their second Premier League title in three seasons thanks to an impressively calm victory against West Ham at the Etihad Stadium.
Knowing a point would likely be enough to win the title on goal difference and that defeat could spell disaster, Manuel Pellegrini's men set out to attack from the first whistle and were duly rewarded.
Samir Nasri opened the scoring with a fine low strike which evaded Hammers keeper Adrian and crashed in off the post, and Vincent Kompany made it 2-0 shortly after the break.
City dominated the opening half an hour, pegging their opponents back into their own penalty area for long periods, but could not find a way through until the 38th minute.
Martin Skrtel's own goal at Anfield put the home fans' nerves at ease somewhat but they would still have been hoping that David Silva, Edin Dzeko and Sergio Aguero had done better with their half chances.
But Nasri's measured strike sent the Etihad into raptures and, with Liverpool still trailing 1-0 to Newcastle, dashed any lingering hopes at Anfield.
City did not rest of their laurels following their opener, with Aguero glancing Nasri's free kick wide of the far post and then Pablo Zabaleta failing to turn in his compatriot's low cross.
Silva then struck the crossbar seconds before the half-time whistle when Andy Carroll deflected his powerful shot.
And they took one more giant stride towards the league crown in the 49th minute when Vincent Kompany poked home from close range after Nasri's corner struck Dzeko near the penalty spot.
In a matter of moments Liverpool turned their match on its head, with Daniel Agger and Daniel Sturridge both turning in Steven Gerrard free kicks, but City carried on regardless - David Silva's goal-bound shot was deflected wide before Aguero miscued when presented with an open net.
Painted as a potential saviour for Liverpool before the match, Andy Carroll made way for Carlton Cole having failed to make an impact for the Hammers.
Pellegrini looked to shore things up by bringing on Fernandinho and James Milner for Edin Dzeko and David Silva, but City kept up the pressure and Nasri was denied by Adrian after being played in by Yaya Toure.
Yaya Toure was withdrawn late on with a hamstring injury while Aguero and Hammers midfielder Mark Noble were both booked for a late spat, but that did not dampen the hosts' celebrations.
The home fans whipped up a noisy atmosphere before flooding onto the pitch at the final whistle, which confirmed a second Premier League title in three years and City's second trophy of the season following their Capital One Cup final victory.
source: goal.com
Friday 9 May 2014
Forbes names Real Madrid as the most valuable sports club in the world for the second year running
al Madrid continues to be the most valuable sports club in the world, increasing its value to 3.44 billion dollars, according to the prestigious Forbes magazine. As stated on the publication's website, the Whites have held on to the top spot thanks to greater revenue from the world of sport with 675 million dollars and an operating income of 172 million dollars in the 2012-13 season. Real Madrid top the list ahead of Barcelona, Manchester United, Bayern Munich and the New York Yankees.
Source of income and balance sheet data are some of the figures taken into account by Forbes in the creation of the list. In the first section, Real Madrid is the European club to collect the most money from spectators visiting the stadium, with 189 million dollars. This is in addition to the income generated from the 23 national and international sponsors, player and club advertising contracts, with media coverage in more than 180 countries and the 130 licensees of Real Madrid products of around the world.
In terms of the financial situation, the net worth of the entity totals 405 million dollars. In addition Real Madrid is the most solvent football club in the world thanks to its Net Debt/Ebitda ratio of 0.6 and a Net Debt/Net Equity of 0.3.
MOST VALUABLE SPORTS CLUBS ACCORDING TO FORBES MAGAZINE
Malaysia drops three spots in the latest FIFA rankings
The two draws from the games against Philippines has put Malaysia further down in the FIFA world rankings
Malaysia’s mission to improve their ranking from recent friendly games against the Philippines has proved fruitless as they have dropped another three spots in the latest FIFA rankings.
In the latest rankings Malaysia are now in 145th spot, dropping three spots from 142nd position last month, after the two games against the Philippines ended with draws.
With this position, Malaysia are now among teams such as Kyrgyzstan (146), Puerto Rico (149) and Belize (144).
In the South East Asia region, Malaysia are still behind Vietnam (116), Philippines (140) and Thailand (143), but in front of rivals Singapore (147) and Indonesia (152).
In Asia, Malaysia rank 23rd from 46 Asian countries in the rankings. There are no changes at the top amongst Asian countries, with Iran leading the pack at 37th spot, Japan in 47th and Uzbekistan in 53rd.
At the top of the table, European and World Champions Spain are still on top, followed by other European giants Germany and Portugal, at second and third respectively.
2014 World Cup hosts Brazil also improved their ranking, moving up two spots from 6th to 4th, jumping above fellow South American teams Colombia (5th) Uruguay (6th) and also Argentina (7th).
Wednesday 7 May 2014
Edin for glory: Dzeko comes to Manchester City rescue
The Bosnian scored twice in his side's win over Aston Villa on Wednesday to leave Manuel Pellegrini's men on the verge of winning their second Premier League title
The bus was parked, the rain was teeming down and Manchester City supporters may have feared the worst as the game entered the final half-an-hour. After all, for all their recent success, most of these fans were brought up where ‘Cityitus’ - a proclivity for choking when it matters - is still ingrained in the psyche.
Then they showed the personality and character of champions, of a team that has done this before. Their goal difference now means they need just one point against West Ham on the final day of the season to clinch a second title in three seasons.
“We’ll fight ‘til the end” were the words sung in the stands and written on the huge flag unveiled in the stands before kick-off.
Edin Dzeko has personified that spirit in recent weeks and while the scoreline ended 4-0 over Aston Villa on Monday, it was the Bosnian who transformed the game from an edgy draw into a convincing victory.
In the 64th minute, Dzeko was too quick on his toes for the Villa defenders as he darted across the six-yard box to reach Pablo Zabaleta’s cross and slide the ball first-time through Brad Guzan’s legs.
Eight minutes later, he put the results beyond doubt with a typical striker’s finish, finding himself in the right place to tap the ball in after Samir Nasri’s initial shot was saved by the goalkeeper.
Stevan Jovetic and Yaya Toure scored late on to seal and emphatic scoreline - but it was Dzeko who got City out of trouble. source: goal.com
Decima or disaster? Madrid must rest Ronaldo as title hopes evaporate
Cristiano was withdrawn with muscle fatigue and, although the problem doesn't seem serious, Real can't afford to risk their star man ahead of the Champions League final
La Liga looks lost now for Real Madrid. Carlo Ancelotti's men would be joint-top of the table if they had beaten Valencia and Valladolid over the last four days, but back-to-back draws have left them lagging behind - and it's time to look towards the Champions League instead.
Madrid were without Gareth Bale at Zorrilla and lost Cristiano Ronaldo to injury with muscle fatigue after eight minutes. Despite going ahead through Sergio Ramos' free kick, a late leveller from Humberto Osorio denied the Blancos victory and has seemingly put paid to their hopes of claiming the title, too. Indeed, a win for Atletico Madrid at home to Malaga on Sunday will mean Madrid can't be champions this term.
With an inferior record in their head-to-head match-ups with both Barcelona and Atleti, Real needed to finish top outright anyway, but can now win no more than 90 points. Atleti, meanwhile, have 88 and Barca 85. The fat lady is warming up her vocal chords for the Santiago Bernabeu side.
Madrid's hopes of a treble are seemingly gone, but the Copa del Rey and the Champions League would represent an impressive return for the club in Ancelotti's first season in Spain. The cup has already been won, while Madrid are favourites to beat city rivals Atleti in the sides' showpiece in Lisbon later this month
source: goal.com
Tuesday 6 May 2014
Neymar could become the world's best player - Ronaldo
The Portuguese forward believes that the Barcelona and Brazil international star has great potential, perhaps to move clear of everyone else as the greatest around
Cristiano Ronaldo believes that Barcelona starlet Neymar could become the best player in the world.
The Catalans signed the 22-year-old from Santos for an estimated €87.2 million (£71.5m) last summer and he has scored nine league goals and picked up eight assists in his first 25 games for the club.
Despite Real Madrid's intense rivalry with the reigning Primera Division champions, Ronaldo thinks that the Brazil international will blossom into one of the world's elite stars.
"I see Neymar as a great player," he told SporTV News. "I think in recent times he has proven be a player with a great future.
"His adaptation into Barcelona was not the best, he had some problems at first, but I have no doubt that he has the potential to be one of the best players in the world or even the very best player in the world."
The 29-year-old was then asked about his country's hopes for this summer's World Cup in Brazil and opined in response that Portugal have been drawn in the hardest group in the competition, facing Germany, Ghana and USA.
"We're not the favourites," he observed, "but we will try to enjoy it. We know that we have a complicated group, in my opinion it's the strongest in the World Cup.
"We have to go step by step. We have a big game against the Germans first and then we play Ghana and the United States to pass the group stage. Then we'll see."
source: goal.com
Video - Manchester United vs Hull City 3-1
The 18-year-old striker, given his first start as well as Tom Lawrence, netted in either half, while Matty Fryatt's fine long-ranger was made irrelevant by Robin van Persie
Manchester United 3-1 Hull City: Wilson scores twice on dream debut as Vidic bids farewell to Old Trafford
The 18-year-old striker, given his first start as well as Tom Lawrence, netted in either half, while Matty Fryatt's fine long-ranger was made irrelevant by Robin van Persie
The youngster, along with Welsh winger Tom Lawrence, was fielded by Ryan Giggs for his maiden first-team game and made it a memorable one half an hour in when he fired home with a left-footed volley.
The Red Devils extended their lead through Wilson just after the 60-minute mark when he tapped in on the rebound, though the Tigers got a consolation in fine style with Matty Fryatt's long-range stunner only two minutes later.
Old Trafford also had a chance to say goodbye to captain Nemanja Vidic, who came on for one last home game before joining Inter in the summer, while 40-year-old Giggs brought himself on in the second half for what is expected to be his final playing appearance at the ground.
The Welshman had time to supply Robin van Persie with the ammunition for the hosts' third goal, too, the Dutchman's initial effort blocked by Curtis Davies before he buried the rebound. Giggs nearly even buried a fantastic late free kick, though it was well saved by Eldin Jakupovic.
Victory means that United could still overhaul Tottenham and steal sixth spot on the final day of the season, while defeat for Hull extends Steve Bruce's winless run against his old club as a manager to 20 games.
Giggs made eight alterations to the side beaten by Sunderland on Saturday, including blooding the two youngsters, while his former United team-mate, Bruce, also made changes with the upcoming FA Cup final in mind.
Bruce's men were lucky to avoid conceding a penalty when Adnan Januzaj was tackled by Maynor Figueroa and the Honduran defender was in the thick of the action again when Lawrence's 16th-minute shot struck him on its way over the crossbar.
The deadlock was finally broken after 30 minutes without a shot on target by Wilson following a Januzaj free kick. The young striker latched onto a knockdown from Fellaini, the Belgian's first assist of the season, and instinctively volleyed the ball into the bottom corner.
Hull's lacklustre first-half display continued into the second period as United went close to doubling their lead. The effervescent Januzaj found space 25 yards from goal before firing a low shot towards goal that Jakupovic had no problems pushing away for a corner.
United did get a second goal after 61 minutes and again it was Wilson who was on hand to score. After more excellent work from Januzaj and Fellaini seeing an effort saved, the teenager pounced on the loose ball to double his tally.
Substitute Fryatt found the bottom corner two minutes later with a superb curling effort from 25 yards to give Hull hope.
Wilson was then replaced by Van Persie and Giggs also came off the bench, the Welshman making an immediate impact and producing some dazzling wing play that turned back time to the days when he so frequently terrorised defences.
David Meyler had a late chance to snatch a point for the visitors but David de Gea was equal to the task.
And Van Persie punished Meyler's miss late on, the Dutch striker receiving a pass from Giggs before firing past Jakupovic at the second attempt to wrap up a comfortable victory.
source: goal.com
Monday 5 May 2014
Video - Crystal Palace vs Liverpool 2014 (3-3)
The Reds blew a three-goal lead as the Eagles came back with three in nine minutes at Selhurst Park - has the momentum swung irrevocably towards Manchester City?
Noel Gallagher taunts Suarez over tears as Liverpool collapse gifts Manchester City title advantage
The Reds left Crystal Palace with just one point and saw their Premier League championship ambitions take a huge dent, much to the delight of the famous City fan
Manchester City fan and former Oasis guitarist Noel Gallagher was quick to taunt Liverpool after their 3-3 draw with Crystal Palace gave his side a huge boost in the title race.
The Reds led by three goals at Selhurst Park but relinquished their lead in a frantic final 15 minutes, leaving Manuel Pellegrini's side trailing the Merseyside club by a point but with two games in hand.
Gallagher voiced his disapproval of Luis Suarez, who was in tears after the dramatic cdraw shortly after the game.
"It was nice to see Suarez in tears at the end because he is a blatant cheat," Gallagher said to talkSPORT. "It was an endearing image, Gerrard too.
"I can't believe he [Suarez] won the Football Writers' Award. They went 3-0 and got caught up in the emotion.
"Nobody wins by six or seven in the Premier League - unless you're playing Tottenham or Arsenal."
source: goal.com
Liverpool's dream is almost over & it's time for Suarez to join Real Madrid
Correspondent Column: The Merseysiders' star man has been in sensational form this season but he should leave Anfield if he gets the chance to the Liga giants this summer
Luis Suarez faces Crystal Palace tonight needing two more goals in Liverpool’s remaining two fixtures to break the Premier League scoring record over a 38-game season.
It would be the perfect way for the Uruguayan to finish a sensational individual campaign before moving on to bigger and better things.
Suarez has been the outstanding player in the division this season with a stunning record of 30 goals in 31 league matches, a strike rate that propelled Liverpool up the table into an unlikely title race.
The Reds can still win their first league title in 24 years if Manchester City slip up - but whatever happens, Suarez should be seriously considering a summer move to Real Madrid.
Source: goal.com
Sunday 4 May 2014
Cristiano Ronaldo Amazing Backheel Goal vs Valencia - Real Madrid 2 - Valencia 2
A late Ronaldo equaliser in a 2-2 draw with Juan Antonio Pizzi's side ensures Los Blancos take a share of the points and continue to apply pressure to Atletico at the top...
Arsenal vs West Brom 1 0 ~ All Goals & Highlights
Arsene Wenger's men have already guaranteed a fourth-placed finish, while Pepe Mel's side are four points clear of the relegation zone heading into the clash at the Emirates
Arsenal 1-0 West Brom: Giroud header enough for Gunners
The Frenchman met Santi Cazorla's left-wing corner with a powerful downward header in the 14th minute, ensuring Arsene Wenger's men picked up their fourth league win in a row.
Everton's 3-2 reverse to Manchester City on Saturday meant Arsenal were already assured of a Champions League berth for a 17th successive campaign, with the FA Cup final against Hull City on May 17 now their main focus.
West Brom, meanwhile, went into the game knowing they had likely done enough to secure safety, with 18th-placed Norwich City facing two difficult fixtures, and there was little intensity on show in a low-key affair.
Lukas Podolski did strike the post for Arsenal in the second half, but one goal proved enough as West Brom struggled to carve out opportunities.
Arsenal went in front just before the quarter-hour mark thanks to Giroud's firm header.
After Cazorla had seen his shot deflected over the bar by Youssouf Mulumbu, the Spaniard curled the resulting corner in from the left and Giroud got the better of Craig Dawson to plant a well-directed header into the net from six yards.
Graham Dorrans stung the palms of Wojciech Szczesny with a rasping drive in the 32nd minute, while Saido Berahino blasted a shot narrowly over a minute later.
The hosts' response was immediate, Cazorla bringing a smart save out of Ben Foster after running onto Podolski's cut-back.
Mathieu Flamini, back in the side in place of the rested Aaron Ramsey, hit a tame effort straight at Foster from the edge of the box as Arsenal ended the first period in the ascendancy.
In a quiet second half, Dawson headed over the bar from a corner in the 72nd minute before dragging a speculative effort well wide of goal from 30 yards shortly afterwards.
Mesut Ozil, quiet for much of the match, stabbed narrowly wide of goal after getting on the end of Giroud's flick as Arsenal looked to put the game to bed.
Podolski's mis-hit shot then rebounded back off the post and into the arms of a grateful Foster, but it mattered little.
While Arsenal's title hopes faded some time ago, the club can at least take some consolation from reaching their highest Premier League points tally since the 2007-08 season.
source: goal.com
49 goals 44 games: Cristiano Ronaldo is on his best-ever scoring streak
The Real Madrid ace has struck at a ratio of 1.11 per match and looks set to make it to a half-century for the fourth season in a row
Cristiano Ronaldo is on fire. The Portuguese ended 2013 in spectacular style for club and country and is in fine form this year as well after winning the Ballon d'Or in January. With five fixtures still left in the current campaign, the 29-year-old boasts his best-ever scoring ratio over a single season and is also on the verge of reaching 50 goals for the fourth time in a row.
In his first four seasons at the Santiago Bernabeu, Cristiano scored 33 (in 35 games), 53 (in 54), 60 (in 55) and 55 (in 55), respectively. This term, though, he has hit 49 in 44 at a ratio of 1.11 goals per game - easily the best in his career to date. His 60 goals in Madrid's title-winning campaign in 2011-12 came at a rate of 1.09 per game, but the Portuguese is on course to beat that this time around. His finest season at Manchester United, meanwhile, brought 42 strikes in 49 matches - a rate of just under 0.86.
Ronaldo is unlikely to reach his best mark of 60 this season, but has missed matches through injury and was aso suspended for three games in La Liga following his red card at Athletic Bilbao. Nevertheless, the Portuguese leads the scoring charts in La Liga with 30 goals and is tied with Liverpool's Luis Suarez in the race for the European Golden Shoe. The Uruguay striker has just two games to add to his tally, however, while Cristiano is likely to feature in all four of Madrid's final fixtures in the Primera Division.
In the Champions League, meanwhile, the 29-year-old has hit a record 16 goals in 10 games, beating Lionel Messi's mark of 14 in a single edition of Europe's premier club competition. The Portuguese is also now level with the Argentine on 67 Champions League strikes, with each just four adrift of record holder Raul.
Amazingly, Ronaldo sat 17 strikes behind Messi just two years ago. When Barcelona beat AC Milan 3-1 on April 3, 2012 at Camp Nou, the Argentine scored twice to move onto 51 Champions League goals and was sixth on the list of all-time top scorers in the continental competition. Ronaldo, with 34 at that time, was not even in the top 10. But 12 goals in Madrid's march to the semi-finals last season and 16 more this term have seen the Portuguese close that gap and with a final meeting against Atletico to come later this month, he has the opportunity to move ahead of the Barcelona forward - something that seemed extremely unlikely just a couple of years ago.
Madrid's total of 37 goals in the Champions League this season is also a new competition record, while Los Blancos are within two ot reaching 100 in La Liga and have netted 150 in all competitions so far in 2013-14. Ronaldo, with 49, has a fraction under a third of that total and 24 more than Real's second-highest scorer, Karim Benzema, who has 25.
When Mesut Ozil left Madrid to join Arsenal in the summer, many believed the Portuguese would miss the German's assists, but Benzema, Gareth Bale and Angel Di Maria have all provided plenty of support to the two-time Ballon d'Or winner, who now has 250 goals in 243 appearances for Madrid and is fourth in the list of the club's all-time top scorers behind Raul (323 in 741 games), Alfredo Di Stefano (308 in 392) and Santillana (290 in 645). Ronaldo's ratio, however, is superior to all of those.
"I think that Cristiano is Madrid's best player of all time," former Real striker Michael Owen said this week. The Portuguese certainly has the numbers to back up that argument - and this season shows he's still getting better and better.
source: goal.com
Video - Goal Everton 2 - Man City 3
Manuel Pellegrini's men are now firm favourites to win a second league title in three seasons after they returned to the summit following a tense 3-2 win over Everton
Everton 2-3 Manchester City: Dzeko double sends Pellegrini's men top
Roberto Martinez's men saw their Champions League dream ended by the new Premier League leaders, who leapfrog Liverpool on goal difference with two games left to play
Roberto Martinez's men saw their Champions League dream ended by the new Premier League leaders, who leapfrog Liverpool on goal difference with two games left to play
The league leaders looked in for a difficult afternoon and fell behind early to a stunning curling effort from England World Cup hopeful Ross Barkley.
But Sergio Aguero equalised before limping off with an injury, and Edin Dzeko scored either side of half time to put the visitors in control.
Romelu Lukaku responded with a header from a Leighton Baines cross to set up a nervy finish and despite the best efforts of Gerard Deulofeu, who forced a save from Joe Hart with a fine individual run, Roberto Martinez's side could not find an equaliser and saw their Champions League hopes ended.
City made an enterprising start, with Aguero often the architect, but Everton took a 10th-minute lead in sensational fashion.
Barkley, who impressed throughout, brought Goodison Park to its feet by whipping Steven Naismith's lay-off into the top corner from 25 yards.
Yaya Toure brushed Leon Osman aside to blast over after 16 minutes, while Barkley jinked past Javi Garcia and Martin Demichelis at the other end to prompt a magnificent last-ditch tackle from Vincent Kompany.
Perhaps inspired by their captain's heroics, City drew level in the 21st minute.
Centre-back Antolin Alcaraz was drawn towards Toure, who slipped a pass though for Aguero to blast beyond Tim Howard at his near post.
However, in the act of scoring, Aguero appeared to sustain another leg problem in an injury-plagued season and the striker was replaced by Fernandinho.
As half time approached Howard thwarted Dzeko from an acute angle but when the ball was worked out to James Milner the big Bosnian was on hand to head home from a pinpoint cross.
Everton had a glorious chance to draw level within a minute of the restart as Barkley stormed forward and Naismith shrugged off Pablo Zabaleta, but Joe Hart made a stunning low save to deny the Scotland international.
In a similar response to the one following Kompany's earlier brilliance, City streamed up field to give themselves breathing space.
Fernandinho sublimely controlled the attack and found Samir Nasri, whose low centre was turned in by Dzeko for City's 150th goal in all competitions this term.
Faced with the seemingly routine prospect of closing out a decisive win, City then faded badly and Lukaku reduced the arrears when he stooped to convert Leighton Baines' arching cross.
Bizarrely, City's defenders were then of greater use at the other end of the field, as Zabaleta and Demichelis went close to adding a fourth.
Lively Everton substitute Gerard Deulofeu rippled the side netting after cutting through the visitors with a brilliant jinking run.
A lengthy period of treatment for a shoulder injury to Dzeko brought about six minutes of stoppage time, but Manuel Pellegrini's side held on and are likely to guarantee a second league crown in three seasons by winning their remaining matches, at home to Aston Villa and West Ham.
source: goal.com
Pellegrini: The worst thing we can do is think we’ve won the title
The Chilean says he is already focusing on Wednesday night's clash against Aston Villa but was pleased to see his side end their dismal recent record at Goodison Park
Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini has warned his side the worst thing they can do is think they have won the Premier League after beating Everton 3-2.
The victory moves City top of the table, above Liverpool on goal difference, with just two games of the season left to play.
The Chilean’s side should clinch the league if they win both of their remaining games, against Aston Villa and West Ham, but Pellegrini says the title race is not over yet.
“I think that the worst thing we can do is to think we’ve finished the Premier League now,” he told reporters.
“We have to play games against teams who play with no pressure so it’s important that from tomorrow, we start to think about the game against Aston Villa – we take each game as it comes.
“I think it’s very important to continue in the way we are doing so far – today was the last game away from home and we started this season with four points from the first six away games so I think this team is doing much better in this respect.”
Goals from Sergio Aguero and Edin Dzeko saw City gain all three points against Everton, ending a dismal record at Goodison Park, and Pellegrini admitted it had been a difficult game for his side.
“We’ve won twice in our last ten times here and Everton played really good today – you could clearly see that they wanted to win from the beginning and it was a very tough game for us,” he added.
“We won and that’s the important thing in this moment – the pressure is too high to play our best football but we played well and coped with it.”
“Maybe the team was nervous at 3-2 but we defended well. We started one goal down so it wasn’t easy to recover from that beautiful goal.
“After that we managed the game very well, we scored three and had other chances to score. All of the players played well and all of the team deserve their merits.”
source: goal.com
Friday 2 May 2014
Top 10 Most Expensive Transfers in Football History
1. Gareth Bale
Welsh footballer with tremendous speed, great crossing ability, a great left foot and exceptional physical qualities.
On 1 September 2013, Bale was transferred to Real Madrid for an undisclosed transfer fee. The Spanish press and Real Madrid TV reported €91 million, while the English press reported a world record transfer fee of €100 million, which would be above Cristiano Ronaldo’s transfer record fee of €94 million.
2. Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo made history in 2009 when he became the most expensive player in the football history. The Portuguese star player signed a six-year contract with La Liga gaint Real Madrid and today has a buy-out clause of nearly one billion euros.
Ronaldo was originally handed the number nine jersey when he join Real Madrid, but in 2010 chose to play with the number seven, now he also known as CR7.
3. Zinedine Zidane
retired frinch legend who played as an attacking midfielder for the French national team, Juventus and Real Madrid. Renowned for his elegance, vision and technique. football critics and fans will always remembered his name as the legend of the game.
His 2001 transfer from Juventus to Real Madrid set a world record fee of €75 million.
4. Zlatan Ibrahimović
Swedish Star Footballer Ibrahimovic completed his move to Barcelona in the summer of 2009 though His time at Barcelona was short-lived. He signed a five year deal with the Catalan giants after three years at Inter Milan.
Despite being a success with Barcelona, Ibrahimovic moved to Milan and then to Paris.
his transfer from Inter Milan to Barcelona in 69 million euros, was the 4th most expensive transfer deal in history.
5. Kaká
Brazilian Super-Star and attacking midfielder Kaka is the 5th most expensive player in the history. After his success with Milan, Kaká joined Real Madrid for a transfer fee of €68 million. At the time, this was the second highest transfer fee (in euros) ever, behind only the €75 million fee for Zinedine Zidane.
6. Edinson Cavani
Cavani chose a big-money move to French club Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) over Chelsea. He was drawn to the project that Paris Saint-Germain have put in place – to try and make them the biggest club in Europe. Cavani was transferred to PSG in 64 million euros, that was the 6th most expensive transfer in football history.
The Uruguay striker now wearing the number nine shirt there and hopes to flourish as he did at Napoli in the past.
7. Luís Figo
Figo became one of Spanish football’s most prominent villains when he made the transferred from Barcelona to Real Madrid in the summer of 2000. he was switched to Real Madrid in €62.
The player received a less than appreciative welcome from the Barcelona fans upon his return to Camp Nou for an El Clasico.
The Figo was tormented while taking corners, with fans throwing coins, plastic bottles, and even a pig’s head at the player.
8. Radamel Falcao
Commonly known simply as Radamel Falcao, Falcao García or Falcao in South America, is a Colombian football striker, who plays for AS Monaco in the French Ligue 1.
Radamel Falcao was moved from Atletico Madrid to AS Monaco in €60 million deal, this is the 8th most expensive deal regarding player transfer.
9. Fernando Torres
Spanish footballer who plays as a striker for Chelsea and the Spain national team. after playing for Liverpool from 2007 to 2010, Torres left the club in January 2011 to join Chelsea for a record British transfer fee of £50 million, which made him the most expensive Spanish player in history. also the 9th most expensive player of all time.
10. Neymar JR
One of most impressive young footballer, Neymar Jr impressed everyone through his traditional Brazilian flair during his play in Santos.
in next season FC- Barcelona and Real Madrid Bids for this Youngster. Though Real Madrid were said to have offered more, Neymar chose Barcelona, where he felt his style of play would fit in well.
he was transferred to FC-Barcelona for €57, which mean it was the 10th Most Expensive Transfer in Soccer History.
source: sporteology.com
Top 10 Highest Paid Soccer Players 2014
1. Cristiano Ronaldo
One of the Most Popular Athlete in the World. Ronaldo is #1 in List of Highest Earning Soccer Players. Ronaldo is Earning More than 44 Million USD. 23 Million via Salary/Winnings and 21 Million via Endorsements.
2. Lionel Messi
One of the Greatest Soccer Player if not Greatest. Man with many World Records in his Pocket. Messi is at #2 in List of Highest Paid Soccer Players 2014. his Total Earning is 41.3 Million USD per Year. Messi is Receiving 20.3 Million as a Salary an 21 Million via Endorsement with Leading Brands.
3. Wayne Rooney
One of Most Gifted Footballer England Ever Produced and one of the All Time Best Striker. Manchester United’s forward is the 3rd Most Paid Soccer Player in The World. his Annual Earning is 21.1 Million USD, Including 3 Million via sponsorship deals.
4. Sergio Aguero
legend Diego Maradona‘s Son in law Sergio Aguero who plays for Manchester city and the Argentinean national football team as a striker, is the 4th richest Soccer Player of the world. he has signed a five year deal with the city for about 42.35 million Euros.
5. Didier Drogba
Ivorian footballer who plays as a forward for Galatasaray in the Süper Lig. He is the captain and all-time top scorer of the Côte d’Ivoire national football team. He is best known for his career at Chelsea. he is 5th Highest Paid Footballer in the World, with Annual Earning of 20.8 Million USD.
6. Yaya Touré
Midfielder Premier League club Manchester City and the Ivory Coast national team. his Annual Earning is Exceeding 20.7 Million USD. he is Receiving 18.2 Million via Salary and 2.5 Million via Endorsements. he 6th highest earning football player in the world.
7. Neymar
One of the Most Rising Star in Football Arena. Neymar was Transfered to Barcelona Last Year in €57, That was 10 Most Expensive Transfers in Football History. however he is the 7th highest paid soccer player in 2014. his annual earning is 20.5 million USD.
8. Fernando Torres
Spanish footballer who plays as a striker for Chelsea and the Spain national team. Torres is the 8th in list of Top 10 Highest Paid Soccer Players 2014. his Annual Earning is Exceeding 20 Million USD.
9. Zlatan Ibrahimovic
Swedish professional footballer who plays as a striker for Ligue 1 club Paris Saint-Germain and the Swedish national team for which he is captain. he is the 9th Highest Paid Soccer Players 2014. his Annual Earning is 19.7 million USD. Ibrahimovic is gaining 17.2 Million USD via Salary/Winnings and 2.5 Million via Commercial Deals.
10. Kaká
Ricardo Izecson dos Santos Leite, commonly known as Kaká or Ricardo Kaká, is a Brazilian football attacking midfielder who currently plays for Italian Serie A club Milan and the Brazilian national team. he is the last member of Highest Paid Soccer Players 2014 list.
source: sporteology.com
2. Lionel Messi
3. Wayne Rooney
4. Sergio Aguero
5. Didier Drogba
6. Yaya Touré
7. Neymar
8. Fernando Torres
9. Zlatan Ibrahimovic
10. Kaká
source: sporteology.com
El Loco: Mastermind Simeone, Atletico deserve it all
Like it or not, Atletico Madrid are one of European's best this season. And it's not a surprise if they achieve the 'double' by winning the La Liga title and Champions League.
HOLA!
Some Chelsea supporters, here in Kuala Lumpur, are still in a daze with The Blues' failure to make the Champions League final in Lisbon on May 24.
A group of them, for instance, had earlier watched in despair on Wednesday at a Mamak restaurant as Chelsea collapsed.
They could not believe their eyes that Jose Mourinho's men were outclassed by Atletico Madrid as they went down 3-1 in the return leg semi-final and what more at Stamford Bridge.
After all, Chelsea managed to hold Atletico to a 0-0 draw in the first leg at the Calderon last week via parking of a bus or two.
Now Atletico have set this historic final against across bitter city rivals Real Madrid.
Mourinho's men were favourites on Wednesday but ended playing second best to Argentine Diego Simeone's men.
It's not a big surprise, though. This is because Atletico have been flying high since day one this season.
Atletico, for that matter, are the only team who have been unbeaten in this elite European competition this season.
Los Colchoneros, or "The Mattress Makers", have quality players in all departments -- great in both technical and tactical aspects and brave at heart. Simeone is also a great motivator both on and off the pitch.
No-nonsense and physically strong chief striker Diego Costa, midfielders in the exciting Koke and captain Gabi have been influential in Atletico fantastic run.
Turkish Arda Turan, looking like a Roman gladiator, has been superb in midffield to assist the strikers.
And the defence has been rock solid with the presence of figures like Diego Godin, Filipe Luis and Juanfran.
Of course, there is the world class goalkeeper in the 6ft 6in Thibaut Courtois, who is on loan from Chelsea, ironically.
Atletico also have depth in the squad. They do have players to be called upon if needed - David Villa, Adrian, Raul Garcia and Tiago.
The neutrals are loving Atletico's great adventure and their emergence as one of the best in Europe. They provide that extra entertainment.
Besides being in the Champions League final, Atletico are in a strong position to win their 10th La Liga title this season, at the expense of champions Barcelona and Real.
The 43-year-old former Argentina international may be modest by saying his players deserve what they are enjoying after hard work but he is the mastermind.
He was a magnificent defensive midfielder during his playing days -- earning 106 international caps and also starring for Inter Milan and Lazio in Serie A.
Simeone possesses strong and colourful characters himself, started his managerial career with modest Argentine Primera Division outfit Racing Club in 2006.
Not many, understandably, took notice of Simeone at that time. Some seemed to be asking could he be a great manager after making an impact as a player.
However, Simeone began to make heads turned after he led Estudiantes to the Argentine Primera Division title in 2007.
He achieved the same feat with River Plate two years later.
Atletico signed him up in 2011 and they won the Europa League. He also steered them to the Copa del Rey in the 2012-2013 season.
Atletico stunned many by also winning the Uefa Super Cup in 2012 by beating Chelsea.
Simeone has successfully proved he is a genius when it comes to coaching. In fact, he is now one of the hottest around.
Imagine, Atletico winning both the Champions League and La Liga title this season. Simeone, his men and their supporters will be celebrating for some time to come.
Now many are saying Real, after thrashing champions Bayern Munich 5-0 on aggregate in the semi-finals, are favourites in Lisbon.
Really?
It is not a surprise if it is Atletico who will be lifting the trophy instead -- to deny Real from achieving their La Decima (10th European title).
However, Atletico are also hungry for success as it has been already 40 years that they last won the elite European competition.
Atletico are not going to make it easy for Real. That's for sure.
source: goal.com
