BETHELP AND FOOTBALL NEWS

Weekend info

2008-03-23T21:27:00.002+01:00

Chelsea 2 - Arsenal 1 (Premier League, March 23, 2008) Almunia easily saved a Ballack free-kick after six minutes at the Bridge. Arsenal dominated the early exchanges and Van Persie blazed over on 15, seconds later Cudicini was forced to come out but Eboue was unable to take advantage. On 25 Drogba ran through but failed to control. Five minutes before the break Gallas should have put the Gunners in front at the back post, the linesman had though flagged for offside. (First-half highlights here.) Early in the second-half, Drogba ran through again but was unable to finish, Gallas did well to put him off. Bacary Sagna broke the deadlock just before the hour mark, heading home at the near post from a Fabregas corner, his first goal in English football. With twenty minutes to go, seconds after a double substitution by Avram Grant, Didier Drogba equalised with a fine finish. And the Ivorian turned the game round, and potentially crushed Arsenal’s title hopes, with the second, Almunia could have done better with Drogba’s finish. (Second-half highlights here.)

Manchester United 3 - Liverpool 0 (Premier League, March 23, 2008) (Longer highlights here.) In the sixth minute at Old Trafford, Rooney was played in by Anderson but Reina narrowed the angle and blocked well. Midway through the first-half Ronaldo hit the post after ghosting in at the back post, the chance was flagged for offside. Minutes later Steven Gerrard saw a vicious shot deflected for a corner. On 32 minutes Reina juggled a Giggs cross. And two minutes later the Liverpool goalkeeper was at fault for Wesley Brown’s opener, the United right back headed in a Rooney cross, as Reina flapped. Seconds before the break Javier Mascherano was sent-off for receiving his second yellow card for dissent (first yellow here). United dominated the early part of the the second-half, Ronaldo went close with a free-kick and Rooney should have scored when played in by a superb ball from Van Der Sar. Seconds after coming on Tevez should have doubled United’s advantage but Reina again saved from close range. Two goals in three minutes finished the game, Cristiano Ronaldo headed his 34th of the season after Reina flapped again. (The corner was won after Ronaldo missed an easy chance, Reina pushed his shot onto the bar.) And Nani bagged the third after a one-two with Rooney followed by a great finish into the corner.

Gretna 0 - Celtic 3 (SPL, March 23, 2008) Goals by Scott McDonald, Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink and Georgios Samaras proved enough to secure the points for Celtic, as they closed the gap on leaders Rangers.

***

Real Madrid 2 - Valencia 3 (La Liga, March 23, 2008) David Villa silenced the Bernabeu when received the ball after Sneijder had been caught out in possession, before coolly slotting home past Casillas. Valencia’s lead was only momentary, as Raul restored parity with a header minutes later. Madrid’s comeback was complete ten minutes after the break when Guti fed Raul to slot home his second. But a resurgent Valencia drew level when Villa steered home a penalty, and Los Che turned the match on its head when Arizmendi bagged an 88th minute solo winner to give Barca new hope in the title race. Special mention to Hilderbrand, who made a string of terrific saves for Valencia.

Barcelona 4 - Valladolid 1 (La Liga, March 23, 2008) Samuel Eto’o put Barca in front at home against Valladolid. Gonzalez equalised seven minutes later from the spot. Iniesta put Barca 2-1 up three minutes into the second-half. Bojan Krkic got the third on 62 from close range. And the young Serbian added the fourth with eight minutes to go after unselfish play from Eto’o.

Racing Santander 2 - Recreativo Huelva 0 (La Liga, March 23, 2008) Racing took advantage of a red-card for Recre defender Caceres 25 minutes from time, to claim a late win thanks to late goals from Orteman and Smolarek. Racing moved up to fifth place in the table.

Zaragoza 1 - Almeria 1 (La Liga, March 23, 2008) (Longer highlights here.) Oliveira headed the home side in front just eight minutes after team mate Gabi had been sent-off, but Almeria snatched a point when Negredo stabbed in from close range in injury-time.

Osasuna 0 - Real Betis 1 (La Liga, March 23, 2008) Mark Gonzalez earned Betis a valuable away win, scoring off a free-kick early in the second-half. Osasuna had Javi Garcia was sent-off late on.

Levante 1 - Villarreal 2 (La Liga, March 23, 2008) Villarreal took the lead just before the half hour when Matias Fernandez drilled home from the edge of the area, but Angel headed in an equaliser midway through the second-half. The Yellow Submarine stole all three point when Franco struck a late winner.

Real Murcia 4 - Espanyol 0 (La Liga, March 23, 2008) Alonso opened from the penalty spot, before netted his brace after the break. Abel made it 3-0 with another spot-kick, and Richi wrapped up with a late header.

***

Hertha Berlin 1 - Schalke 2 (Bundesliga, March 23, 2008) Goals from Asamoah and Jones put Stuttgart two-up at Hertha Berlin. Chahed converted a penalty but it was not enough to save Hertha’s six-match unbeaten streak.

Arminia Bielefeld 1 - Werder Bremen 1 (Bundesliga, March 23, 2008) Bremen dented their championship hopes, drawing to relegation-threatened Arminia. Kirch poked the ball home the opener for the hosts, Diego netted the equaliser for Bremen from the penalty spot 20 minutes from time.

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FC Twente 2 - Ajax 1 (Eredivisie, March 23, 2008) Ajax’s title hopes have taken another blow with this defeat. A Douglas og had put the away side in front but late goals from Wilkshire and Elia gave Twente the victory.

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Rennes 3 - Lens 1 (Ligue 1, March 23, 2008) Jerome Leroy opened the scoring with a delightful chip, before laying on goals for Pagis (following a saved penalty from Briand) and Thomert either side of half-time. Maoulida had brought Lens level.

***

OFI Crete 2 - Skoda Xanthi 0 (Greek Super League, March 23, 2008) Petropoulos’ header and a fine free-kick from Taralidis secured the win.

Panionios 4 - Asteras Tripolis 1 (Greek Super League, March 23, 2008) Panionios went four goals up through Kumortzi, Djebbour and a brace from Choutos, before the visitors pulled one back through Milano.

Levadiakos 1 - Olympiakos 3 (Greek Super League, March 23, 2008) After falling behind to Dibala’s goal, Olympiakos bagged three first-half replies through Galleti, Belluschi and Kovacevic.

Aris Thessalonikis 1 - Larissa 1 (Greek Super League, March 23, 2008)

***

FC Moscow 0 - Zenith St. Petersburg 2 (Russian Premier Liga, March 23, 2008) Arshavin (lovely free-kick) and Aniukov with the goals.

***

Galatasaray 2 - Denizlispor 1 (Super Lig, March 23, 2008) Diabolical goalkeeping gifted Cetin an 88th minute winner for Gala.

Newcastle 2 - Fulham 0 (Premier League, March 22, 2008) (MOTD highlights here.) Kevin Keegan finally won his first game on his return as Newcastle manager, crucially against fellow relegation strugglers Fulham. Newcastle went ahead in the sixth minute through Viduka, and after forcing Keller to make a string of saves, Owen sealed the Toon’s first win since January 16th with an 83rd-minute header.

Tottenham 2 - Portsmouth 0 (Premier League, March 22, 2008) (MOTD highlights here.) A frustrating game was settled in the closing stages by two Spurs substitutes. Darren Bent scored in the 80th minute, with Jamie O’Hara doubling the score in the 82nd after both players had come on 10 minutes earlier.

Middlesbrough 1 - Derby 0 (Premier League, March 22, 2008) George Boateng fed the ball into Tuncay’s path and the Boro striker ran past the Derby defenders before firing low into the corner.

Aston Villa 0 - Sunderland 1 (Premier League, March 22, 2008) (MOTD highlights here.) Michael Chopra came off the bench to score a vital goal in Sunderland’s fight against relegation as they recorded their first away win of the season.

Everton 1 - West Ham 1 (Premier League, March 22, 2008) West Ham handed 18-year-old James Tomkins a Premier League debut, and the youngster saw a header hit the bar early on. But unfortunately for Tomkins, moments later he was caught out by Yakubu, who turned and scored a fine solo goal early in the first-half (highlights here). After the break, Ashton got on the end of a Neill cross, and powerfully headed the home the equaliser.

Blackburn 3 - Wigan 1 (Premier League, March 22, 2008) Roque Santa Cruz scored with two headers either side of an equaliser from Marlon King, with Roberts adding a third on the stroke of half-time. Rovers lost Samba to a 17th-minute red card for bringing down Heskey in the box, while Wigan had Palacios sent-off for two bookable offences.

Reading 2 - Birmingham 1 (Premier League, March 22, 2008) Andre Bikey was the unlikely hero for the Royals. Bikey headed home Oster’s free-kick to give Coppell’s men the lead at the break. Zarate equalised for City in the second half but Bikey won the game with ten minutes to go when he converted Nicky Shorey’s free-kick.

Bolton 0 - Manchester City 0 (Premier League, March 22, 2008)

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Charlton 1 - WBA 1 (Championship, March 21, 2008) Greg Halford scored the opener for Charlton, heading home Ambrose’s free-kick. But just before the break Phillips grabbed his 21st goal of the season when he smashed in from close range.

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Dundee United 2 - Motherwell 0 (SPL, March 22, 2008) Sub-Swanson scored after less than a minute on the pitch, with Mark de Vries bagging the second with two minutes remaining.

Rangers 2 - Hibernian 1 (SPL, March 22, 2008) Rangers notched up their 12th straight win thanks to goals from Jean-Claude Darcheville and Nacho Novo. Dean Shiels’ goal in the 90th minute pulled one back for Hibs.

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Mallorca 1 - Deportivo La Coruna 0 (La Liga, March 22, 2008) Mallorca took the lead over Deportivo when Arango’s free-kick evaded everyone and ended up in the net.

Sevilla 1 - Atletico Madrid 2 (La Liga, March 22, 2008) (Longer highlights here.) Maxi Rodriguez gave Atletico the perfect start, getting on the end of a low cross to convert at the back stick. Sevilla pulled level just after the break through Capel, but free-scoring Madrid restored their advantage when wunderkid Ageuro connected with a cross to volley home the second. Sevilla ended with 10-men after Maresca was sent-off for a headbutt.

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Inter Milan 1 - Juventus 2 (Serie A, March 22, 2008) (Longer highlights here.) Del Piero forced a smart save from Cesar, while at the other end Inter came close as Stankovic’s header grazed the bar. Buffon had to save Chivu’s long range free-kick as Inter pressed, but it was Juventus who took the lead after the break when Camoranesi (offside?) tucked the ball home at the far-post. Serie A was then blown wide open when Juve doubled their lead as Trezeguet volleyed home number two. Del Piero blew a chance to put the game to bed, and Inter responded with Maniche getting a goal back from close range. But Juve held on for the vital win, which breathes new life into the Italian title race.

Roma 2 - Empoli 1 (Serie A, March 22, 2008) Tonetto fired Roma ahead before half-time but Empoli hit back when Giovinco equalised for the visitors, and Perrotta was sent-off soon after. But Panucci’s second-half header ensured the Romans bounced back after their derby defeat with a priceless win.

Torino 0 - AC Milan 1 (Serie A, March 22, 2008) Milan got a vital win at Torino thanks to a scrambled goal from Pato.

Fiorentina 1 - Lazio 0 (Serie A, March 22, 2008) (Longer highlights here.) Fiorentina consolidated fourth place beating 10-man Lazio 1-0 at home thanks to Giampaolo Pazzini’s second-half goal. Lazio’s Massimo Mutarelli was red-carded in the 37th minute.

Sampdoria 1 - Cagliari 1 (Serie A, March 22, 2008) Foggia chipped Castellazzi to score for the basement side three minutes before the break. But Franceschini’s stoppage-time header gave Samp a share of the spoils.

Reggina 1 - Napoli 1 (Serie A, March 22, 2008) A fabulous stoppage-time strike from outside the area by Franco Brienza, his fourth goal in three games, gave Reggina a deserved draw after Roberto Sosa had scored for Napoli in the 76th minute.

Siena 2 - Parma 0 (Serie A, March 22, 2008) A last-gasp double from Massimo Maccarone, the first from the spot and the second scored at the far-post, condemned Hector Cuper to his first defeat as Parma coach.

Udinese 2 - Livorno 0 (Serie A, March 22, 2008) A brilliant long distance strike from Quagliarella opened the scoring after 19 minutes, Di Natale doubled up two minutes after the break.

Palermo 2 - Genoa 3 (Serie A, March 22, 2008) Amauri, one of the hottest properties in Europe, opened the scoring for Palermo from the spot, but goals from Figueroa (30), Milanetto (50) and Konko (61) turned things around. Amauri grabbed a lovely second in stoppage-time.

Atalanta 0 - Catania 0 (Serie A, March 22, 2008)

Spezia 1 - Vicenza 1 (Serie B, March 21, 2008)

Avellino 1 - Modena 1 (Serie B, March 21, 2008)

Mantova 0 - Albinoleffe 1 (Serie B, March 21, 2008)

Messina 1 - Bari 2 (Serie B, March 21, 2008)

Bologna 2 - Frosinone 1 (Serie B, March 21, 2008)

Chievo 1 - Piacenza 0 (Serie B, March 21, 2008)

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Bayern Munich 2 - Bayer Leverkusen 1 (Bundesliga, March 22, 2008) Bayern picked up another crucial win against title challengers Leverkusen thanks to a goal in each half from Luca Toni. Bulykin scored a late goal for the visitors.

Borussia Dortmund 1 - Karlsruhe 1 (Bundesliga, March 22, 2008) Mladen Petric put Dortmund ahead in the 24th minute with a stunning free-kick, before slack defending presented the ball eventually to Sebastian Freis, and his deflected shot brought Karlsruhe level.

Stuttgart 4 - Hansa Rostock 1 (Bundesliga, March 22, 2008) Pardo and Cacua gave Stuttgart a 2-0 lead inside two minutes midway through the second-half, but Gomez’s own-goal soon brough Hansa back in the game. Gomez made amends by scoring in the 87th minute and Basturk wrapped up the win in injury-time.

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PSV 3 - Groningen 0 (Eredivisie, March 22, 2008) An excellent team move ended up with Koevermans rounding the keeper to score the opener for PSV. Horrific goalkeeping gifted Bakkel the second, and Koevermans found himself in the right place to add number three.

Heerenveen 4 - Roda 3 (Eredivisie, March 22, 2008) Roda raced to a two goal lead through Lamah and Yulu-Matondo, but Heerenveen hit back when Bradley turned home a loose ball. Janssen restored Roda’s two goal cushion, only for Henrique, Beerens and Bradley (scissor-kick) to score three second-half goals to steal the win for the hosts.

Vitesse 3 – NAC 3 (Eredivisie, March 21, 2008) Idabdelhay handed the visitors the lead after just three minutes before Van der Schaaf doubled their advantage within the opening 20 minutes. Claudemir (35) struck back for Vitesse, but Molhoek scored a a cracker to restore NAC’s two-goal lead. But the home side were not disheartened, and a brace from Santi Kolk (52 and 57) secured a point in a memorable encounter.

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Nancy 2 - Metz 1 (Ligue 1, March 22, 2008) Hadji gave Nancy the lead, which looked to have been enough until Bessat equalised with three minutes to go. But a dramatic 89th minute winner header from Zerka gave the hosts the win, despite seeing Chretien red-carded in the final seconds.

Marseille 0 - Sochaux 1 (Ligue 1, March 22, 2008) Fourth-placed Olympique Marseille did their chances of reaching the Champions League no favours, losing to lowly Sochaux after N’daw scored with a magnificent lob after just two minutes.

Nice 1 - Lorient 2 (Ligue 1, March 22, 2008) Vahirua opened the scoring against his old team, but Bakari Kone brough Nice back level. Rafik Saifi got the winner with a header.

Caen 4 - Monaco 1 (Ligue 1, March 22, 2008) Caen hit four second-half goals to record their first victory of 2008. After falling behind to Sambou’s early opener Hengbart, Sorbon, Gouffran and a rip-snorter from Jemaa finally put an end to Caen’s Ligue 1 free-fall.

Auxerre 1 - Saint-Etienne 3 (Ligue 1, March 22, 2008) The hosts had the early lead five minutes after Benalouane headed through his own net. Landrin equalised on the hour mark. Ilan gave the visitors the lead minutes later and Feindouno sealed an emphatic win.

Valenciennes 3 - Bordeaux 1 (Ligue 1, March 22, 2008) Roudet raced into the box and struck from a tight angle to put Valenciennes in front on 10 minutes, but the visitors equalised with a superb free-kick from Wendel. Sebo put the home side back in front and Savidan wrapped it up for Valenciennes with an acrobatic volley to dent Bordeaux’s title dreams.

Strasbourg 0 - Lille 1 (Ligue 1, March 22, 2008)

Toulouse 1 - Le Mans 1 (Ligue 1, March 22, 2008)

***

Vitoria Setubal 0* - Sporting Lisbon 0 (Pens 3-2) (Carlsberg Cup, March 22, 2008) Setubal won the League Cup final, with goalkeeper Eduardo Carvalho stealing all the plaudits with three saves in the shootout.

WEEKEND VIDEO GOALS AND FOOTBALL NEWS

2008-03-10T01:58:00.005+01:00

Middlesbrough 0 - Cardiff 2 (FA Cup, March 9, 2008) The magic of the FA Cup continued to show no signs of abating when Peter Wittingham gave Cardiff the lead with a brilliant finish after showing off sublime close control in the Boro box. And then the Championship side went two goals to the good as Whittingham delivered a free-kick onto the head of Johnson, who clinically nodded in number two. (First-half highlights here.) In the second-half, Boro impotently fired a host of blanks as they hugely disappointed after being outplayed by Cardiff.

Bristol Rovers 1 - West Bromwich Albion 5 (FA Cup, March 9, 2008) The Baggies look a good bet to win the competition after this quarter-final rout of Bristol Rovers. Ishmael Miller scored a hat-trick, the first of which was a lovely finish. James Morrison had put WBA in front and Kevin Phillips struck the fourth. Danny Coles had pulled one back before half-time to bring it back to 2-1, but the Baggies were a class apart and have a great chance of further FA Cup glory.

Wigan 0 - Arsenal 0 (Premier League, March 9, 2008) (Longer highlights here.) Arsenal, drawing for the third successive game in the league, were far from their fluent best and created few clear openings, Adebayor and Fabregas wasted their best chances. Arsenal have a two point lead over Manchester United, but the Red Devils have a game in hand.

Tottenham 4 - West Ham 0 (Premier League, March 9, 2008) Spurs took an early two-goal lead against West Ham. The first came from a Huddlestone cross from the right headed home by Dimitar Berbatov. The same partnership led to the second for Berbatov, this time Huddlestone’s free-kick came from the left hand side. In the final minutes Gilberto and Darren Bent added goals for the home side to inflict the third 4-0 defeat on the Hammers in eight days.

Sunderland 0 - Everton 1 (Premier League, March 9, 2008) The Toffees kept up the pressure on Liverpool by beating relegation-threatened Sunderland thanks to Andy Johnson’s shoulder goal.

Aberdeen 1 - Celtic 1 (Scottish FA Cup, March 9, 2008) The Dons looked to be on their way to a semi final meeting against Queen of the South following a second-half goal from Jeffrey De Visscher. But a 91st minute goal from Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink earned Celtic a draw at a stunned Pittodrie.

Genoa 0 - Juventus 2 (Serie A, March 9, 2008) Juve took a 2-0 lead into the break thanks to goals from Grygera (great hit) and Trezeguet.

Empoli 1 - AC Milan 3 (Serie A, March 9, 2008) AC Milan responded to their Champions League exit by scoring early on at Empoli as Pato rolled home a dropped cross by the keeper. The Rosseneri then found themselves guilty of weak defending, as Busce steered home the equaliser at the back post. Two goals from Ambrosini and Kaka in the last five minutes gave Milan the win.

Lazio 2 - Livorno 0 (Serie A, March 9, 2008) Lazio flew out the traps against Livorno, bagging two early goals through forwards Rocchi and Pandev.

Siena 1 - Fiorentina 0 (Serie A, March 9, 2008) The Viola allowed AC Milan to claw themselves back to just one point off fourth spot after Massimo Maccarone scored an incredible free-kick 10 minutes from time, only to then be dismissed for picking up a second booking after he whipped off his shirt in celebration.

Parma 1 - Sampdoria 2 (Serie A, March 9, 2008) The visitors took an 11th minute lead through Maggio before Parma’s Gasbarroni missed from the penalty spot five minutes into the second-half. Bonazzoli made it 2-0, Budan grabbed a consolation.

Catania 2 - Cagliari 1 (Serie A, March 9, 2008) Conti put Cagliari, but Silvestri equalised two minutes from the break. A Canini own-goal completed the comeback for Catania.

Napoli 0 - Roma 2 (Serie A, March 9, 2008) Simone Perrotta’s early finish and Francesco Totti’s second-half penalty put second-placed Roma six points behind Inter.

Barcelona 1 - Villareal 2 (La Liga, March 9, 2008) Marcus Senna gave Villareal the lead at the Nou Camp from a penalty after Franco was brought down by Victor Valdes.With just over twnety minutes remaining, Xavi equalised after great work by Iniesta. Late on, Jon Dahl Tomasson stunned the Nou Camp, bagging the winner after a fine break by the Yellow Submarine.

Mallorca 7 - Recreativo Huelva 1 (La Liga, March 9, 2008) (Longer highlights here.) Arango broke the deadlock, and it was 2-0 within 60 seconds courtesy of Daniel Guiza’s goal. Guiza scored again on 32 minutes and Valero got the fourth, before Ruben pulled one back for Recre. Valero netted his second of the game before half-time and Arango scored twice in the early stages of the second period to complete the rout and his hat-trick.

Sevilla 2 - Levante 1 (La Liga, March 9, 2008) Levante took the lead away at Seville after only five minutes thanks to a brilliant chip from Riga. But the hosts bounced back when Keita equalised on 28 minutes and Luis Fabiano notched the winner in the second-half.

Valencia 2 - Deportivo La Coruna 2 (La Liga, March 9, 2008) A Valencia counter-attack built down the right-hand side resulted in Mata bagging the opening goal at the far post. Minutes later, after yet another well worked team move, the lead was doubled as Villa (again) found the net at the far post. But Los Che have been a soft touch this season, and Depor pulled a goal back when Sergio embarrassed Hilderbrand from a free-kick, only for Lafita to score the leveller on the stroke of half-time.

Murcia 0 - Getafe 3 (La Liga, March 9, 2008) Michael Laudrup’s side continue to impress. Goals from Hernandez, Albin and Casquero.

Osasuna 2 - Almeria 1 (La Liga, March 9, 2008)

Racing Santander 3 - Real Betis 0 (La Liga, March 9, 2008)

Albacete 1 - Real Sociedad 2 (Segunda division, March 9, 2008)

Bayer Leverkusen 2 - Hannover 0 (Bundesliga, March 9, 2008) Leverkusen maintained their charge for Champions League football thanks to first-half goals from Gekas and Barnetta.

Nurnberg 0 - Hamburg 0 (Bundesliga, March 9, 2008)

Lyon 4 - Bordeaux 2 (Ligue 1, March 9, 2008) Lyon raced into a two-goal lead at home to second-placed Bordeaux with two goals from Mathieu Bodmer. Wendel pulled one back ten minutes before the break from a free kick. Five minutes after half-time Karim Benzema re-established Lyon’s two-goal advantage. However, Laurent Blanc’s men would not give in and Cavenaghi pulled one back from the penalty spot with half-an-hour to go. Keita sealed the win with the fourth in injury-time.

Marseille 2 - St. Etienne 0 (Ligue 1, March 9, 2008) A route-one goal from Valbuena and a second from Taiwo secured victory for OM.

FC Porto 1 - Academica Coimbra 0 (Superliga, March 9, 2008) Ricardo Quaresma got the only goal from long-range in the 32nd minute.

Benfica 2 - Moreirense 0 (Superliga, March 9, 2008)

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE VIDEO GOALS

2008-03-05T02:06:00.003+01:00

UEFA Champions League second knockout round

2008-03-04T14:55:00.003+01:00

FC Barcelona - Celtic FC

FC Barcelona and Celtic FC want to provide another feast of UEFA Champions League football at the Camp Nou as this first knockout round, second-leg tie promises a repeat of the thriller at Celtic Park.

Firm test
In assessing the match, home coach Frank Rijkaard unhesitatingly put spectacle and entertainment on a par with the more pragmatic task of capitalising on the 3-2 lead established two weeks ago. The coach has now faced Celtic three times in UEFA competition since arriving in Barcelona in 2003 and has learned sufficient lessons not to believe, even with a healthy advantage, that the Scottish champions will be anything other than a firm test.

Thin margin
"Celtic are a really good side and I don't think there is a massive difference between us. We have a history of playing each other in recent years but, to me, it is this challenge at the Camp Nou, rather than the results of the last few years, which is important to focus on. Champions League nights at the Camp Nou really are wonderful and we love playing them. Our goal is always to give our public spectacle, great football and the right result. It's an important combination for our fans.

Undefeated record
In fact, Celtic's two previous results at Barcelona, in the 2003/04 UEFA Cup and the 2004/05 UEFA Champions League, were valiant draws. That would not be sufficient to overcome the deficit from the first match, where two terrific goals from Lionel Messi and one from Thierry Henry brought Barça back from 1-0 and 2-1 down. Yet it would allow Celtic and their large band of travelling fans to extend their notable record in Catalonia. "I am certain Celtic are preparing to put on a great performance," agreed Rijkaard. "But the Champions League is very, very important to us. We'll do our job."

Team selection
The hosts are still missing the injured Rafael Márquez and also do without Edmílson and Giovani Dos Santos – but Messi and Yaya Touré should be available. As for Gordon Strachan, the Celtic manager is fully aware that a task of immense proportions lies ahead of him and his players. Celtic have not won away in 16 UEFA Champions League matches while, in the group stage, Barcelona won all three home games with eight goals scored and only one conceded.

'Fear, determination, excitement'
"There's nothing wrong with a bit of fear," said Strachan. "It can push you on to greater things. I hope that before the match my players feel a mixture of fear, determination and excitement. When we have the ball, I'd like my players to make Barça fear us." Defender Mark Wilson, who came on after several months out injured in the first leg, is fit to feature for the Scottish title-holders who have a full complement of players.

Mountain to climb
"We are angry that individually and collectively we didn't play our best in the first game," continued Strachan. "My team must hold on to the ball better and be braver in what we do with our possession. This may be the football equivalent of climbing Everest but people have conquered Everest. It's just that some who tried didn't make it back!"

Manchester FC - O.Lyon

Old Trafford has long been one of European football's most redoubtable fortresses and Sir Alex Ferguson believes home advantage will prove telling when Manchester United FC conclude their first knockout round tie against French champions Olympique Lyonnais on Tuesday.

Cause for confidence
Carlos Tévez's 87th-minute equaliser in the sides' 1-1 draw at the Stade de Gerland leaves United favourites to reach the last eight and their record of nine successive European home wins provides extra cause for confidence. "Our home record in European football has been very good for a long time," said Sir Alex. "The atmosphere at Old Trafford on a European night helps."

Potential record
United have not lost to continental opposition at this venue since AC Milan prevailed at this stage of the 2004/05 campaign – and a victory over Lyon would see the English champions equal Juventus's record of ten consecutive home wins in the UEFA Champions League, established between 1996 and 1998. Yet while Lyon went down 2-1 on their only previous trip here in 2004, Sir Alex is wary of the attacking potential of a visiting team beaten just once in their last seven away fixtures in the competition.

'Reminds me of Zidane'
"Lyon will come knowing they have to get a goal," said the United manager, who highlighted the threat of Karim Benzema, scorer of a spectacular opener in the first leg. "He is a very strong boy, he reminds me a little bit of [Zinédine] Zidane – physique wise and possibly pace wise too. He is a natural centre-forward." Having played wide left in Lyon's last two matches, Benzema will be happy to revert to a central striking role with Fred – scorer of the only goal against LOSC Lille Métropole on Saturday – dropping to the bench.

'Have to attack'
Lyon coach Alain Perrin believes Benzema capable of playing a decisive part in a contest where, by his own admission, the balance now rests with United. "He has the ability to make the difference on his own, to create opportunities even when space is restricted," said Perrin, who did not face United during his six-month spell in England with Portsmouth FC in 2005. "We are out as things stand, so we have to attack," added Perrin, albeit with the rejoinder that dismantling the Premier League's most miserly defence would not be easy. "Their positioning is excellent and they are very experienced with players like [Rio] Ferdinand and [Nemanja] Vidić in the centre, who are good at winning their individual battles."

Tévez praised
With Ryan Giggs struggling with a calf problem, winger Nani should start and maintain his record as United's only ever-present in Europe this term. A goalless draw would be enough for United but Sir Alex, whose charges beat Fulham FC 3-0 on Saturday, promised "attacking football" and his programme notes dwelled on the influence of striker Tévez. The Argentinian is just one of the star forwards that a Lyon rearguard missing the suspended Anthony Réveillère yet featuring the fit-again Cris – fresh from his first appearance since August – will have to watch closely. "He has a knack of rising to the occasion," said the Scot, drawing comparisons with Eric Cantona.

FC Sevilla - SK Fenerbahce

Despite his team's reputation for instinctive attacking play, Sevilla FC coach Manuel Jiménez believes intelligence is the quality they will need most if they are to come back from 3-2 down to beat Fenerbahçe SK in Tuesday's UEFA Champions League first knockout round decider.

Clever football
Their delight in getting forward earned the Spanish side two valuable away goals a fortnight ago, but it also cost them dearly when substitute Semih Şentürk struck a late winner. Now, with the tie delicately poised and both teams desperate to reach the uncharted waters of the last eight, Jiménez has asked his players to think before they act. "We'll have to be intelligent because our opponents also want to qualify," he said. "It's all very well attacking, however that can rebound on you if you don't have the intelligence to stop the opposition from counterattacking. We mustn't give in to euphoria."

Knockout pedigree
That may sound like caution from the competition newcomers, but they are nothing if not knockout football specialists, having recovered 1-0 first-leg deficits en route to UEFA Cup glory in both 2005/06 and 2006/07 – against LOSC Lille Métropole and CA Osasuna respectively. "If Fenerbahçe are slight favourites because of the scoreline, we certainly don't feel inferior to them or anyone else," continued Jiménez. "We all just need to work harder because a draw won't be enough. If we can go through, it would be important not only for the club but also for the city and Spanish football."

Deportivo defeat
A record of three wins from three group-stage games at the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán ought to feed their confidence, even if Saturday's 2-1 loss at RC Deportivo La Coruña ended a five-match unbeaten league run. It also dragged the club down to seventh in the Primera División, but in-form striker Luis Fabiano, Diego Capel, Seydou Keita and Adriano will all return after being rested. Centre-backs Ivica Dragutinović and Julien Escudé should be fit again too, with Aquivaldo Mosquera poised to step in if Dragutinović fails to overcome a groin problem.

Roberto Carlos absence
The Fenerbahçe rearguard is already certain to be weakened, on the other hand, as Roberto Carlos is still carrying the leg injury he sustained when the sides met in Istanbul. "He is fundamental for us because of his contribution on and off the pitch," lamented his coach, Zico. "We can't think about that, though. We have to go out and fight to the end. We won't play with a defensive attitude because we don't know how. I just don't have the players for that. They can't give up their attacking instincts."

Domestic doubts
Cynics might suggest they looked anodyne going forward in Saturday's 0-0 draw at MKE Ankaragücü, but key men Volkan Demirel, Diego, Gökhan Gönül and Semih Şentürk were all suspended while striker Deivid started on the bench. And that result could even be considered a slight improvement following last week's Turkish Cup defeat by neighbours Galatasaray AS. "That was a different competition," said Zico. "We are well-placed in this tie, we'll give everything and if we don't qualify, nobody will be able to complain. That will just mean Sevilla were the better team."

AC Milan - Arsenal FC

AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti cut a relaxed figure before the make-or-break first knockout round visit of Arsenal FC as he revealed that the return of his leading lights offered plenty of cause for optimism.

Split personality
By their standards the Rossoneri have struggled in Serie A this term. On Saturday, Massimo Oddo's equaliser against S.S. Lazio gave Milan a fifth draw in six matches, leaving them 18 points behind leaders FC Internazionale Milano and four adrift of fourth-placed ACF Fiorentina – with qualification for next season's UEFA Champions League in the balance. However, if Carlo Ancelotti's side have a split personality, the pros outweigh the cons. Last year, for example, a disappointing league campaign was more than tempered by a seventh European Champion Clubs' Cup success.

'Extra special'
"It is difficult to explain why we play better in the Champions League other than to say that this competition has always meant something extra special to this club," said Ancelotti. "We've been through a sticky patch over recent games. We've had to get by without a number of players, but the fact most of them are back and have worked really well in training gives me the belief that they'll give another great performance."

Home form
Paolo Maldini, Alessandro Nesta, Andrea Pirlo, Kaká and Filippo Inzaghi are all expected to start after being rested against Lazio, although Clarence Seedorf, who strained a hamstring in the first half of that match, may join Emerson (shin), Marek Jankulovski (knee), Dida (back) and Ronaldo (knee) on the sidelines. Milan won all three group-stage games at the Giuseppe Meazza in the autumn, and knockout-stage victories here against Celtic FC, FC Bayern München and Manchester United FC last term have heartened Ancelotti.

'Patience'
"It is not by chance that we've always done well at home when we've had to," he said. "We always manage to play with the right attitude in these knockout situations. Nil-nil is a result which needs to be managed intelligently – we must call on all our skill and experience, we mustn't rush anything. In all our previous successes we managed to control the match. Patience is the key."

Van Persie boost
Arsenal may also look to bide their time as they know an away goal could suffice to see them through. As with Milan, the Gunners' domestic form has stuttered slightly, with draws against Birmingham City FC and Aston Villa FC, while injuries have deprived them of Eduardo (leg), Tomáš Rosický (hamstring) and Kolo Touré (calf). However, Abou Diaby is fit again and Robin van Persie has travelled with the squad to give the Premier League leaders what Arsène Wenger described as a "psychological edge".

Wenger belief
"We are highly focused, team spirit is very high and we believe we can do it," said Wenger. "This is a young team we have, but the foundations were laid two years ago when we went to the Santiago Bernabéu, to Juventus and we played [FC] Barcelona. These are the sort of matches that every player wants to play, and I believe what counts is to know that your side has the necessary quality to win these games. I am confident these players have the qualities to win."

Weekend Video Goals

2008-02-11T00:21:00.000+01:00

1-1 Bayern Munich vs. Werder Bremen Highlights - MyVideo

Sudays Matches Info

2008-02-11T00:18:00.000+01:00

Cameroon 0 - Egypt 1 (Africa Cup of Nations, February 10, 2008) After some initial sparring between the two sides, Egypt came closest to taking the lead when Moteab’s shot was saved by Kameni and Aboutrika skied the rebound over the bar. In the second-half the Pharoahs went looking for the winner, and Abd Rabou was unfortunate to see his header strike the post. But the Egyptian pressure finally paid off when sub-Zidan wrestled the ball off Song, playing in Aboutrika who slotted home the winner. Egypt retained their Africa Cup of Nations crown, celebrations here and here.

***
Manchester United 1 - Manchester City 2 (Premier League, February 10, 2008) (Longer highlights here.) Darius Vassell stunned Old Trafford with the opening goal midway through the first half. Petrov played in Ireland who saw his shot saved by Van der Sar, and the former England striker placed it home on the second attempt. On the stroke of half-time Benjani got the second on his City debut, flicking on a great cross from Petrov. Michael Carrick fired one back for United in the 91st minute but City completed a league double over United for the first time since the 1969/70 season.(The minute’s silence and the events preceding the game can be seen on this video.)

Chelsea 0 - Liverpool 0 (Premier League, February 10, 2008) Peter Crouch missed a great opportunity to give Liverpool the lead at Chelsea but he dragged his shot wide, only for the beanpole to miss a header moments later. At the other end, Joe Cole had a penalty shout turned down. In a stale match, one of the highlights was referee Mike Riley falling over after getting tangled up with the ball. Ballack almost snatched the winner.

***
Aberdeen 1 - Celtic 5 (SPL, February 10, 2008) Celtic took a 3-0 lead into the break away at Aberdeen, thanks to goals from Nakamura, McGeady and McDonald (pen). McDonald scored his second three minutes into the second-half after great play by Aiden McGeady. Lee Miller pulled one back for Aberdeen. Barry Robson got the fifth from a fine free-kick.

***
Catania 0 - Inter Milan 2 (Serie A, February 10, 2008) Inter’s title charge remains on course thanks to second-half goals from Cambiasso and Suazo.

Udinese 1 - Juventus 2 (Serie A, February 10, 2008) (Longer highlights here.) Dossena gave Udinese the lead at home to Juve. With half-an-hour remaining Camoranesi equalised with a storming header and fifteen minutes later, Iaquinta netted the winner with his first touch.

AC Milan 1 - Siena 0 (Serie A, February 10, 2008) Without Pato and Kaka, Milan struggled to find the breakthrough, but 18-year-old sub-Paloschi scored an incredible winner after only five seconds of being on the pitch. Siena had Vergassola sent off late on.

Cagliari 1 - Parma 1 (Serie A, February 10, 2008) The Sardinians opened the scoring as Jeda ran forward and unleashed a strike that gave the keeper no chance. Less than 60 seconds later Parma were level after Reginaldo put the ball through Storari’s legs from close range.

Sampdoria 2 - Napoli 0 (Serie A, February 10, 2008) Goals from Delvecchio and Franceschini earned Mazzarri’s side the win to place them above Genoa before next week’s derby.

Livorno 1 - Genoa 1 (Serie A, February 10, 2008) Tavano gave the hosts the lead on the quarter hour. Gleison saw red for the visitors with 15 minutes remaining before Marco Di Vaio hit a sweet late equaliser eight minutes from time.

Torino 3 - Palermo 1 (Serie A, February 10, 2008)

***
Real Madrid 7 - Valladolid 0 (La Liga, February 10, 2008) Real Madrid pummeled poor Valladolid in the first-half, smashing five goals past them in the opening 45 minutes. Baptista slotted home the first, Raul rounded the keeper to make it two, Robben was given the freedom of the left hand side to add the third, Raul’s spot-kick made it four, and Guti smashed home the fifth. Guti added the sixth midway through the second period and Drenthe bagged the seventh with ten minutes to go.

Racing Santander 0 - Athletico Madrid 2 (La Liga, February 10, 2008) Forlan bags a brace, the second was a cracker.

Athletic Bilbao 1 - Levante 0 (La Liga, February 10, 2008) Llorente scored the only goal.

Mallorca 0 - Almeria 0 (La Liga, February 10, 2008) (Longer highlights here.)

Osasuna 1 - Zaragoza 0 (La Liga, February 10, 2008) Plasil hit thge winner on the stroke of half-time.

Espanyol 1 - Recreativo Huelva 2 (La Liga, February 10, 2008)

***
Roda 2 - Ajax 1 (Eredivisie, February 10, 2008) Lamah wriggled past four defenders before firing a shot to give Roda the lead over Ajax. But Ajax’s ever reliable goal-machine, Klass Jan Huntelaar, levelled matters after collecting the ball around the penalty spot. Hadouir headed home the winner to leave Ajax in a four way scrap for second spot.

***
Bayern Munich 1 - Werder Bremen 1 (Bundesliga, February 10, 2008) The top two in Germany couldn’t be separated, as Bayern held on to their three point lead over Bremen. Diego drew first blood for the visitors, and after Luca Toni saw his penalty saved, the onrushing Ze Roberto found the equaliser.

Borussia Dortmund 2 - Schalke 3 (Bundesliga, February 10, 2008) The Revier derby was a pulsating affair with Schalke twice taking the lead through Asamoah and an own-goal from Amedick, only for Borussia to come back each time through Federico and then Petric. Dortmund had Dede sent-off and Schalke took advantage as Ernst grabbed the winner just eight minutes from time.

***
Caen 1 - Lens 4 (Ligue 1, February 10, 2008)

***

Sertanense 0 - FC Porto 4 (Taca de Portugal, February 10, 2008)

Naval 3 - Rio Ave 1 AET (Taca de Portugal, February 10, 2008)

***
Central Coast Mariners 3 - Newcastle Jets 0 (A-League, February 10, 2008) The Mariners set up a grand final meeting against the Queensland Roar by overcoming a two-goal first leg deficit to win in extra-time. Kwasnik opened with a looping deflected shot, Petrovski netted the second from Gumprecht’s cross-come-shot, before Petrovski stole the headlines with a fine solo goal for the third.

***
FC Brussels 2 - Anderlecht 4 (Juplier League, February 9, 2008)

Club Brugge 2 - Mechelen 0 (Juplier League, February 9, 2008)

Satudays matches report

2008-02-10T02:25:00.000+01:00

Ghana 4 - Ivory Coast 2 (Africa Cup of Nations, February 9, 2008) Sulley Muntari gave Ghana a 10th minute lead in the third place play-off with a stunning free-kick. Boubacar Sanogo equalised for the Elephants with a strong run and finish. Nine minutes later, the Werder Bremen striker scored from close range to give the Ivory Coast the lead after Drogba’s shot was saved. Five minutes after bagging the second, Sanogo then should have completed his hat-trick but he hit the bar after being played in by the Drogs. But the Black Stars drew level with a fine solo goal from Quincy Owusu-Abeyie, who outpaced three defenders before coolly slotting home. The host nation then completed the comeback after Junior Agogo broke the offside trap to easily beat Kone. And the Elephants then ended the tournament on a sour note, as Kone failed to handle Dramani’s speculative shot from distance.

***

Aston Villa 4 - Newcastle 1 (Premier League, February 9, 2008) Newcastle came flying out the traps when England U21 hero James Milner swung in a cross which England bench-warmer Michael Owen headed home under pressure from Laursen. Newcastle had Given to thank for saving Carew’s free header just before the break (first-half highlights here), but straight after the interval Given was helpless as Bouma’s deflected right-foot shot nestled in the corner. Newcastle quickly conceded the second three minutes later when Carew headed home Young’s corner, and unable to get back in the game, the sorry Toon fell to pieces from a corner which ping-ponged in the box before Carew bagged his second of the match. The humiliation was completed when Carr stupidly handballed in the box, and Carew scored his hat-trick goal from the spot. Newcastle are experiencing relegation form.

Everton 1 - Reading 0 (Premier League, February 9, 2008) Phil Jagielka got the only goal from a deep Osman cross to send the Royals into the bottom three after their seventh consecutive league defeat.

Middlesbrough 1 - Fulham 0 (Premier League, February 9, 2008) A Jeremie Aliadiere goal put further distance between Boro and the drop-zone, Fulham remain deep in the mire.

Bolton 0 - Portsmouth 1 (Premier League, February 9, 2008) Lassana Diarra scored his second goal for Pompey since joining during the January transfer window.

Derby 0 - Tottenham 3 (Premier League, February 9, 2008) The Ramos revolution continues to propel itself forward as Spurs recorded only their second away win of the season at Championship-bound Derby. A dull first-half blossomed after the break as goals from Robbie Keane (rebound), Younes Kaboul (shot following a corner) and a stoppage-time penalty from sub-Dimitar Berbatov sealed a convincing victory.

West Ham 1 - Birmingham 1 (Premier League, February 9, 2008) Freddie Ljungberg scored his first goal in a year after punishing some slack defending, but Birmingham were soon level through new signing James McFadden, who scored from the spot after he was brought down by Lucas Neill. Lee Bowyer saw red late on, as Brum escaped out of the bottom three.

Sunderland 2 - Wigan 0 (Premier League, February 9, 2008) Sunderland leapfrogged the Latics in 14th place thanks to a goal in each half from Dickson Etuhu’s close-range header and sublime strike from Daryl Murphy.

***

Sevilla 1 - Barcelona 1 (La Liga, February 9, 2008) Sevilla dominated the first-half at home to Barca, Diego Capel got the breakthrough ten minutes before half-time. Xavi equalised from a great through ball by Messi, Palop probably should have kept it out.

Real Murcia 0 - Villareal 1 (La Liga, February 9, 2008) Guille Franco got the winner three minutes into injury-time at the end of the game.

Deportivo La Coruna 1 - Getafe 1 (La Liga, February 9, 2008)

***

Bayer Leverkusen 1 - Hamburg 1 (Bundesliga, February 9, 2008) Van de Vaart got the opener for the away side, Friedrich equalised with half an hour to go.

Hannover 2 - Karlsruher 2 (Bundesliga, February 9, 2008) Balitsch gave Hannover the lead in the 44th minute only to see Kennedy equalise just past the hour mark. Hajnal put Karlsruhe ahead minutes later but Rosenthal restored parity three minutes from time.

Stuttgart 1 - Hertha Berlin 3 (Bundesliga, February 9, 2008) Hertha claims all three points at Stuttgart with Marko Pantelic netting a brace in the first-half. De Rafael added a third with Mario Gomez on the mark for the hosts. Delpierre was sent-off for Stuttgart late on.

Bochum 3 - Energie Cottbus 3 (Bundesliga, February 9, 2008)

***

AS Roma 2 - Reggina 0 (Serie A, February 9, 2008) Pannuci headed in at the back post from a fine Totti cross for the first, Mancini followed up on a fine run and shot from Giuly for the second.

Atalanta 2 - Fiorentina 2 (Serie A, February 9, 2008) The Viola took the lead when Pazzini controlled a pass and spun to find the far corner against his former employers. Muslimovic levelled from a corner just a minute later. Fiorentina went ahead again, Semiol headed in Kuzmanovic’s cross from the right on the hour. But Muslimovic slid home his second of the game in injury-time to end the game all square.

Messina 1 - Mantova 0 (Serie B, February 9, 2008)

Vicenza 2 - Bari 3 (Serie B, February 9, 2008)

***

Lyon 4 - Socaux 1 (Ligue 1, February 9, 2008) Bodmer got two for Lyon, the first came after two minutes the second came from a rebound off a fine Juninho free-kick. Sandiwhced between the two Lyon goals was a brilliant volleyed equaliser from Pancrate. In injury-time Govou and Benzema added some gloss to the scoreline.

***

Larissa 1 - AEK Athens 0 (Greek Super League, February 9, 2008) AEK had Alves sent-off as they fell to their second consecutive deafeat, losing to Zurawski’s first goal for Larissa since joining from Celtic.

Video Goals

2008-02-07T15:54:00.001+01:00

Frendly Matches Info and Video Stories

2008-02-07T15:51:00.000+01:00

England 2 - Switzerland 1 (International friendly, February 6, 2008) (MOTD highlights here.) England took the lead just before half-time with a goal from Jermaine Jenas, Joe Cole did brilliantly to skin his man and cross for the Spurs midfielder to finish from close range. Switzerland equalised just before the hour-mark with a fine strike from substitute Eren Derdiyok. England responded almost straight away, captain Steven Gerrard setting up Shaun Wright-Phillips.

Republic of Ireland 0 - Brazil 1 (International friendly, February 6, 2008) Brazil had the opening effort on target against managerless Ireland when Diego fired his free-kick straight at Shay Given. Towards the end of the first-half Robinho displayed great skill to set up Josue who tested Given. Midway throught the second-half Robinho scored the only goal of the game with a lovely finish.

Italy 3 - Portugal 1 (International friendly, February 6, 2008) Italy went one-up in injury-time of the first-half, Luca Toni scored after a number of Portugal defenders failed to clear. Five minutes into the second period Italy doubled their lead through a deflected shot from Andrea Pirlo. With twelve minutes to go, Ricardo Quaresma pulled one back for Portugal. Two minutes later Fabio Quagliarella restored Italy’s two-goal advantage.

Spain 1 - France 0 (International friendly, February 6, 2008) Joan Capdevilla got the only goal with ten minutes remaining after Diarra had headed off the line from Iniesta. In the last minute Benzema hit the bar for France and following up Thierry Henry missed an absolute sitter.

Poland 2 - Czech Republic 0 (International friendly, February 6, 2008) Two goals in the opening half-an-hour from Lobodzinski and Lewandowski (great finish) gave the Poles a comfortable win. Artur Boruc also saved a penalty from Jan Koller.

Turkey 0 - Sweden 0 (International friendly, February 6, 2008)

Austria 0 - Germany 3 (International friendly, February 6, 2008) After a dire first-half, goals from Hitzlsperger, Klose and sub-Gomez gave Germany the win. The two sides next meet in Group B at Euro 2008.

Croatia 0 - Holland 3 (International friendly, February 6, 2008) England’s conquerers fell to an embarrassing home defeat to Marco Van Basten’s side, for whom John Heitinga and Klaas Jan Huntelaar netted at the beginning and end of the first-half while Vennegor of Hesselink added the third just before the final whistle.

Bolivia 2 - Peru 1 (International friendly, February 6, 2008) In a comment on South American defending, all three goals were headers from set-plays.

Macedonia 1 - Serbia 1 (International friendly, February 6, 2008)

Hungary 1 - Slovakia 1 (International friendly, February 6, 2008) Zoltan Gera’s header from a corner was cancelled out by Sestak.

Israel 1 - Romania 0 (International friendly, February 6, 2008) Israel recorded a morale-boosting victory over Romania, who were reduced to 10-men after Ovidiu Petre was sent off after 20 minutes, thanks to Omer Golan’s header.

United States 2 - Mexico 2 (International friendly, February 6, 2008) Oguchi Onyewu’s towering back-post header gave the hosts the lead, but Magallon’s first goal for Mexico tied the score five minutes later. Highly-regarded starlet Jozy Altidore, then restored America’s lead, only to have Magallon net his second of the game just after the break.

Argentina 5 - Guatemala 0 (International friendly, February 6, 2008) Fielding a predominately young side in preparation for the under-23 competition at August’s Olympic Games, Gonzalo Higuain netted a brace (second goal here) whilst Ezequiel Lavezzi, Jonatan Maidana (great strike) and Marco Ruben added the other goals in the Argentinean rout, marking the first meeting between the two nations.

Uruguay 2 - Colombia 2 (International friendly, February 6, 2008) Edison Perea scored a goal in each half to put Colombia in the driving seat. But the introduction of Edinson Cavani for Diego Forlan reaped immediate benefits with the striker pulling the a goal back before Suarez completed the comeback with a late equaliser.

JANUARY FOOTBALL NEWS

2008-01-18T00:40:00.000+01:00

ENGLAND

Blackburn relief over Newcastle's Keegan appointment
Villa celebrate new Laursen deal
Bolton land Portsmouth's Taylor
Fulham agree fee for Watford's King
O'Leary rejects Republic of Ireland job
Spurs target Fred staying with Lyon
Everton announce accepting Birmingham offer for McFadden
Edman claims Wigan agreement
Spurs join Arsenal interest for Catania's Vargas
Villa boss O'Neill in talks with Tottenham's Defoe
Liverpool agent denies link for Fiorentina coach Prandelli
Portsmouth, Spurs battle for Mallorca star Jonas
Juventus want immediate deal for Villa's Mellberg

ITALIA

AC Milan, Fiorentina chiefs discuss Gilardino, Frey swap
Ronaldo helping Juventus win Amauri race
Udinese's Quagliarella back on Inter Milan radar
Juventus to bring forward plans for Palermo's Barzagli
Inter Milan tracking Corinthians defender Renato
Agent: Zambrotta will only leave Barcelona for AC Milan
Fiorentina intensify talks for Sturm Graz's Proedel
Porto's Gonzalez keen on Fiorentina move
Parma's Dessena interesting Napoli
Belenenses defender Rolando hoping for quick Lazio move
Genoa welcome Corinthians striker Wilson
Reggina wrap up signing of Palermo's Brienza
Siena sign Levante striker Rigano
Parma youngster Paci fractures jaw
Nike back Inter Milan bid for Barcelona's Ronaldinho
Inter Milan seek their own Pato
Fiorentina keep tabs on Gilardino's AC Milan situation
Roma check on Lille starlet Salibur

SPAIN

Deco: Barcelona future decided at season's end
Vazquez: Pinto genuine threat to Barcelona No1 Valdes
Zigic winning Koeman around at Valencia
Manzano blasts Real Madrid's Schuster: Show some humility
Mijatovic insists Real Madrid can be happy despite Copa exit
Barcelona agree terms for Celta Vigo's Pinto
PSG starlet Arnaud reveals Barcelona offer
Deportivo La Coruna players discuss Munua, Dudu futures
Calderon: Casillas would make great Real Madrid president
Benfica, Besiktas move for Recreativo's Beto
Poli Ejido snap up Valladolid striker Kike
Agent reveals Deportivo La Coruna offer for River Plate's Ruben
Chevanton slams ex-Sevilla coach Ramos
Agent rules out Argentina return for Zaragoza's D'Alessandro
Deportivo La Coruna, Sevilla go for Santos star Maldonado
Baptista delighted with Real Madrid breakthrough
Real Madrid coach Schuster keen on Juventus outcast Tiago
Jorquera backs Barcelona's Pinto move

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE PREVIEW

2007-12-11T12:14:00.000+01:00

Marseille - Liverpool

Liverpool FC will be stepping into a lions' den at the Stade Vélodrome on Tuesday, according to Olympique de Marseille coach Erik Gerets. Victory for either side would guarantee qualification, and Gerets is adamant that his will be the team celebrating at the final whistle.

Adrenalin rush
The hosts also know that a draw will suffice unless Group A basement club Beşiktaş JK can win at FC Porto, but the Belgian tactician does not expect his charges to hold back. "We won't set out looking for a draw," said Gerets. "Our preparations have been normal but, from the first second on Tuesday, the players will know they are in a special game, more intense than in the league. It's the match the fans have been waiting for and there'll be adrenalin aplenty on the pitch. We won't freeze, we'll be like lions."

Anfield win
The Mediterranean outfit certainly did not freeze on Merseyside in October, as Mathieu Valbuena gave Gerets a stunning 1-0 victory in his first match in charge. Since then, they have managed just one point from three European outings, yet their coach sees enough reasons to believe they will progress. "We have already proved that we have the ability to defeat Liverpool," he stated. "One of my colleagues said we don't have a chance on paper, but the match won't be played on paper. Even though they're slight favourites, we're at home and we're unbeaten in our last five league games."

Nasri injury
Marseille extended that Ligue 1 run with a 2-0 success over AS Monaco FC on Saturday, which lifted them to 13th in the standings. Influential playmaker Samir Nasri missed out with an ankle injury, although there is a slight chance he may return to replace Karim Ziani. "We'll make a decision after training," explained Gerets, who admitted he is relishing another meeting with the 2005 winners: "There's pressure but it's the right kind of pressure, the pressure you hope for as a coach."

Reading defeat
Liverpool manager Rafael Benítez has come under pressure of his own since Saturday's 3-1 loss at Reading FC ended his side's unbeaten Premier League record, not least because he withdrew key men Steven Gerrard, Jamie Carragher and Fernando Torres to keep them fresh for Marseille. "Right now, the Champions League is the most important competition for us," said the Spaniard. "We were really disappointed to lose the Reading game, but we're only thinking about this one and finding the right solutions."

'It's a final'
Daniel Agger and Xabi Alonso will not figure among those solutions as they are not yet back to full fitness, while Andriy Voronin and Mohamed Sissoko have been left in England. Torres has recovered from an ankle knock, on the other hand, and will lead the charge for goals – although a draw would suit Liverpool if Beşiktaş prevail in Portugal. "We made a lot of mistakes when we last faced Marseille, but we know more about them and their coach now," continued Benitez. "If you want to win trophies then you have to win finals, and for us this is a final."

Porto - Besiktas

Coach Jesualdo Ferreira is adamant FC Porto will not underestimate the challenge of Beşiktaş JK as the Portuguese side attempt to rubber-stamp qualification for the knockout stage for the fourth time in five UEFA Champions League campaigns.

Record loss
"They're a strong team," said Ferreira, whose charges will advance by avoiding defeat on Tuesday – and as Group A winners should they triumph – but face elimination if they become Beşiktaş's first away victims in the section. The coach is certainly not fooled by the Black Eagles' poor form on the road so far, which includes the heaviest defeat in UEFA Champions League history, an 8-0 humbling at Liverpool FC. "We know they will be very difficult," he said. "They beat [Olympique de] Marseille and Liverpool at home. The fact they lost in Marseille and Liverpool won't affect our plans."

Bounced back
Ferreira can, however, take confidence from the fact Porto are the only side in the pool to have left the Inönü Stadium with any points this term, having won 1-0 in Istanbul on Matchday 2 when Ricardo Quaresma scored in added time. The 61-year-old accepts that the Liga leaders will be favourites, especially as they have bounced back from a 4-1 loss at Liverpool last time out by beating SL Benfica and advancing in the Portuguese Cup. "It's normal," he said. We're the leaders after five games. We have built this position. We're not preoccupied with anything else, just with winning the group."

'Great support'
Ferreira assures the Estádio do Dragão faithful that their idols will not sit back and play safe – in return, the players will be wanting the home crowd to help push them over the line. The former SC Braga boss said: "They expect things from us. They give great support to the team, and the bond between them and the team is important. We intend to win the game, and to win the group." It is eleven years since Porto topped a section in the competition, while Beşiktaş are trying to "make history" by reaching the last 16 for the first time.

'Tricky opponents'
"This game is very important, both for our team and for Turkish football," said Ertuğrul Sağlam. "This isn't a game where the players need motivating." The coach knows only a win will keep his side in Europe, yet he hardly wore the look of a worried man on the eve of the match. "I prefer to play in games like this, where we have to win," said the 38-year-old. "We know Porto well. They're a strong team with many good players and are tricky opponents, especially at home."

Pride
Sağlam saw his charges prevail by 1-0 at Bursaspor in the Turkish Süper Lig on Friday, and he has hinted that he could field the same starting XI in northern Portugal as Márcio Nobre and Ricardinho are both ruled out. It is a source of obvious pride to him that Beşiktaş remain in contention going into Matchday 6. "Everyone thought the top two would be Porto and Liverpool, and it would be a struggle between us and Marseille for third place," he said. "Now we have it in our own hands."

Chelsea - Valencia

Valencia CF go looking for the win that only one visiting team has managed in 23 UEFA Champions League matches at Stamford Bridge to give themselves a fighting chance of qualifying for the UEFA Cup. And, despite a poor run of form, coach Ronald Koeman believes they can do it.

English experience
Victory away to Liverpool FC as SL Benfica coach, and a draw at Arsenal FC while in charge of PSV Eindhoven, give the Dutchman confidence as he prepares his side to try to dismantle the Chelsea FC fortress. "It's a pleasure to play in England against English teams because it's always a good atmosphere," he said. "You do get opportunities in these games and I am confident we can take something out of the game."

Rosenborg defeats
After 20 minutes on Matchday 2 it looked as if it was all falling into place for the Spanish club. After winning their Group B opener at FC Schalke 04, they were leading Chelsea 1-0. But that was as good as it got as Valencia eventually succumbed to the London visitors, and then lost back-to-back fixtures with Rosenborg BK, before an uninspiring 0-0 draw at home to Schalke two weeks ago. That put paid to their hopes of reaching the next stage and leaves them needing to better Schalke's result against the Norwegian team to continue their European adventure. "It is very important for the club that we go into the UEFA Cup," Koeman added.

Weekend tests

Both sides have crucial games looming at the weekend. Valencia, in seventh position in the Primera División, ten points adrift of Real Madrid CF, play host to FC Barcelona; Chelsea, who lie third in the Premier League, visit leaders Arsenal FC hoping to claw back a three-point deficit. The difference on Tuesday is that Chelsea have already guaranteed their progress as group winners while Valencia have it all to do – their task a sizeable one considering they are without captain David Albelda after his red card against Schalke, and given they have failed to score in their last four outings.

Drogba out
Chelsea are missing Didier Drogba, who has had a knee operation and is expected to be out for around three weeks, and Petr Čech, although the goalkeeper returns to full training this week following a calf injury. Other senior players are likely to sit this one out as energies are conserved. Grant admits the weekend fixture is the most important on the club's immediate agenda, saying of Tuesday's match: "It's not so important because of what we have done in the group, qualifying with one game to go. But it's the Champions League and we want to perform well."

Unbeaten run
Grant pinpoints the victory at the Mestalla in October as crucial in their run of 14 unbeaten games, Chelsea having suffered just a single loss since the departure of José Mourinho. "Everybody thought Chelsea were a little bit down and would continue to be down after we lost to Manchester United [FC]," he said. "But we won in Valencia, played very well and our attitude was very good. Now we can see how important that game was."

Schalke - Rosenborg

FC Schalke 04 coach Mirko Slomka says his side are "happy to still have a chance" of reaching the UEFA Champions League knockout stage for the first time ahead of their Group B finale against Rosenborg BK.

'Step forward'
Schalke go into the game third in the section, two points behind their Norwegian rivals and needing victory to join group winners Chelsea FC in the next round. The pressure is on the German team who could still miss out on the UEFA Cup spot should Valencia CF defeat Chelsea in the evening's other match. Slomka, though, is drawing strength from Schalke's 2-0 triumph in Trondheim on Matchday 2. "Victory against Rosenborg will take us a step forward," he said. "We're very motivated and will take a lot of confidence from the away match against Rosenborg. I don't think they're dream opponents for us, but I have dreamt about playing our last game at home and then about the knockout phase. We're happy we're at home and still have a chance."

Goal shortage
Jermaine Jones and Kevin Kuranyi struck against Rosenborg on 3 October to lead Schalke to their only win in the section. Indeed, those are Schalke's only goals so far. The Bundesliga side have not scored in their last three Group B matches but a pair of goalless draws, at home to Chelsea and away to Valencia, have kept hopes alive. Slomka takes particular courage from having held the Premier League club, especially given the 4-0 drubbing Chelsea dished out to Rosenborg two weeks ago.

'Right spirit'
"Our performance against Chelsea gives us the right spirit – we just need to score goals," said the 40-year-old, whose team drew 2-2 at Eintracht Frankfurt on Saturday. "There's no favourite but perhaps playing at home gives us a little advantage. If we perform at the same level as we did against Chelsea then we can win. Rosenborg are defensively strong but perhaps their loss to Chelsea makes them less confident at the moment. Also there are no more league games in Norway, so they have not played for a while."

Pander out
Schalke are without the injured Christian Pander but with Heiko Westermann and Levan Kobiashvili both available again, Slomka has a near full-strength squad to choose from. His Rosenborg counterpart, Trond Henriksen, is keeping his cards close to his chest, confirming only that midfielder Per Ciljan Skjelbred will have a fitness test following a bout of flu. The 43-year-old has shifted attention away from his side, claiming the onus is on Schalke as Rosenborg are already assured of European football – by finishing above Valencia – next spring.

'Game plan'
"We have a game plan," he said. "We won't sit back and try to defend but will look to go forward. They have to win. We're playing against a good team with a good defence but we must focus on ourselves. If we fight and play the best we can, we'll be satisfied. Regarding the Chelsea game, the players were over-confident before the match and therefore made some bad mistakes. It's not easy for them to concentrate as our season has ended, but we are focused for this match."

Real Madrid - Lazio

If S.S. Lazio are to assure themselves of a place in the UEFA Champions League knockout stage, their coach Delio Rossi must mastermind a victory by two goals against Real Madrid CF at the Santiago Bernabéu, a venue where the Spanish champions have lost only once in their last 24 games in the competition. A draw will be enough to send Madrid through.

Job to finish
Bernd Schuster, like Rossi, is another coach would have preferred to have wrapped up qualification by now, but the Madrid boss realises his team must forget about missed opportunities ahead of the Group C decider. "It's true we didn't want to find ourselves in this position," said the German. "We had some great chances to beat Olympiacos [CFP] away [on Matchday 4] and I thought we deserved at least a draw in Germany against Werder Bremen [on Matchday 5] but we lost. We have to resolve our situation on Tuesday."

Home advantage

The last time these two sides met, in Rome on Matchday 2, they produced an exciting 2-2 draw. The same result again would suffice for Madrid, and Schuster feels that going into the tie as group leaders gives his team a telling advantage. "We're in a better position than they are, in that we have two possibilities to advance: with a win or with a draw. We have a lot in our favour and we must take advantage of that."

Confidence
Madrid are without the injured trio of Gabriel Heinze, Javier Ángel Balboa (both knee) and Christoph Metzelder (heel) but will have striker Ruud van Nistelrooy available after he shrugged off an injury scare. According to Schuster, Madrid are "up for this one. It'll be difficult but we're confident. We have a lot of respect for Lazio. We're going to try to play at our rhythm. Our players know how important this game is and they know their capabilities and qualities."

Winning possibility
Both Madrid and Lazio enjoyed league victories at the weekend, with the former winning 1-0 at Athletic Club Bilbao to maintain their four-point lead in the Primera División, while the Biancocelesti gained a confidence-boosting 2-0 triumph against Calcio Catania in Serie A. Lazio coach Rossi says the prospect of "playing one of the best teams in the world" is a "very emotional one" but this is a match he believes his side can win. "In a game of football a thousand things can happen. It's going to be difficult but we can win."

Team performance
The visitors will be missing Simone Del Nero, who has a foot injury, but good news comes with the return of Emílson Sánchez Cribari who was suspended for the 2-1 loss at home to Olympiacos two weeks ago. Most attention, though, will be on Lazio strikers Tommaso Rocchi and Goran Pandev, who both scored against Catania. "They'll be important, of course, but it won't only be up to them," said Rossi. "Every player in our team is important. We'll need to keep our balance against Madrid. We need to play our game, not allow Madrid to play theirs, and we'll also need a bit of luck."

Olympiacos - Bremen

Olympiacos CFP coach Panagiotis Lemonis will urge his players to stick to their attacking philosophy and play to win against Werder Bremen as the Group C rivals prepare for Tuesday's vital showdown in Athens.

Play to win
The Greek champions need a point from their final group match to qualify for the knockout stage for the first time since the 1998/99 season when they were eliminated by Juventus in the quarter-finals. But Lemonis, whose team are in fine goalscoring form having beaten Levadiakos FC 4-0 in the Greek Super League on Saturday, says it would be foolhardy to play for a draw.

Same again

"We should not change anything from what our team have shown so far in this campaign," said the 47-year-old. "We should go for the win. We need to approach the game in this way. It is very dangerous if you start to think about playing for a draw. We are building a whole team philosophy here and it would be a mistake to change tactics."

'Fight like madmen'
Olympiacos are second in the section, level on eight points with leaders Real Madrid CF, with Bremen two points behind in third. Expectations are sky-high among the club's fanatical supporters, and Lemonis assures them the Red and Whites will be going all out to reach the knockout rounds. "I do not know what the result will be, but I am sure we will fight and battle like madmen," said Lemonis. "This game is logically considered a final, with the prize at stake being a place in the next phase of the UEFA Champions League." Lemonis will be without captain Predrag Djordjević, who is suspended, and is sweating on the fitness of utility man Christos Patsatzoglou. While refusing to specify about his team selection, he has hinted that defender Michał Żewłakow could be fit to start.

Point to prove
Bremen, meanwhile, have to win to qualify and coach Thomas Schaaf says he expects his players to atone for the 3-1 home defeat they suffered at the hands of Olympiacos on Matchday 2. "It's not about revenge," said Schaaf. "I want to see my players play good football and get a good result. We played very well [against Olympiacos] but luck was not on our side that night. Now we have an opportunity to put that right and to get the right result. There is no extra pressure because every game in the UEFA Champions League is tough."

Diego back
The Bundesliga outfit were unbeaten in ten league matches before Saturday's 4-3 reverse at Hannover 96, and Schaaf admits they must learn from that loss. "The basic thing for us is to cut out the simple mistakes," he said. "We made too many of those [against Hannover] and we must be fully concentrated from the first minute and have a tight defensive line. The players are feeling better, we know what we have to do and we are well prepared." Schaaf has no major injury worries with only full-back Petri Pasanen struggling with a virus. Playmaker Diego is available after serving a one-match suspension against Madrid on Matchday 5.

DAILY FOOTBALL HEADLINES

2007-12-10T13:21:00.000+01:00

ENGLAND

Chelsea's Shevchenko: I can cover Drogba loss
Amauri agent hints at Chelsea interest
Chelsea to send Modric to PSV
Arsenal rival Man Utd for America star Ochoa
Giggs: Crucial Man Utd get Liverpool result
Villa boss O'Neill aware of Juventus link for Mellberg
Birmingham's Muamba has no Arsenal regrets
Sunderland boss: No QPR fee agreed for Murphy
Whitehead: Sunderland pushed Chelsea all the way
Arsenal ahead of Chelsea, Man Utd for Gillingham superkid
Newcastle's Krul targets Falkirk stay
Muamba keen for Arsenal's Djourou to stay with Birmingham
Derby to use Howard fee to land Wigan's Roberts
Villa boss O'Neill confirms Laursen talks
Birmingham go for Rangers striker Boyd
Torino to trump Premiership interest for Wolves winger Kightly
Megson: Bolton players deserve credit
Metz's Djiba wanted at Blackburn
Ronaldinho prefers Man Utd over Chelsea
Liverpool owners favour Klinsmann
Arsenal's Adebayor: I owe it all to Thierry
Spurs to offer £7M for Middlesbrough's Johnson
West Ham boss Curbs: No Ashton rift
Newcastle's Allardyce explains hat mystery
Newcastle boss Allardyce fed-up with long ball label
Portsmouth's Muntari determined to outshine Essien
Distin: All of Portsmouth backing Redknapp
Stoke to bid for Man Utd's Shawcross
Man Utd move for Leicester kid Sappleton
Defoe hopes for Spurs stay
Portsmouth's Distin angry over attack on foreigners
Jerome: Gaffer will have Birmingham playing good football
Newcastle boss Allardyce wants to buy big
Portsmouth boss Redknapp to hit back at cops
Villa ready to back Portsmouth's Redknapp in fans row
Arsenal bus took wrong turn on way to Middlesbrough
Hargreaves wants more Man Utd minutes
Spurs to bid £5M for Cardiff kid Gunter
Liverpool's Crouch: Reading result won't affect Marseille form
Sunderland boss Keane: Jones will benefit from Cole experience
Cisse: I've nothing against Liverpool
Arsenal's Adebayor: I get hammered from first minute
Norwegian pair enjoy Blackburn trials

SPAIN

Mijatovic: AC Milan made it difficult for Real Madrid in Kaka pursuit
Guti: Ronaldinho signing welcome at Real Madrid
Barcelona ready to bring forward Ronaldinho contract talks
Capello reveals how he saved Raul's Real Madrid career
Eto'o pleased with winning Barcelona comeback
Rijkaard fields Barcelona big guns: It could've been better
Real Madrid's Guti plays down Robben row
Barcelona president Laporta: Ronaldinho not for sale
Van Nistelrooy confident Real Madrid contract Christmas present
Guti: Real Madrid will be champions
Hildebrand closer to Valencia exit
Atletico Madrid's Raul: Aguero sad after red card
Deportivo La Coruna face winter market ban
Chaparro: Betis must put points ahead of style
Athletic Bilbao set to open new Ustaritz contract talks

ITALY

AC Milan striker Ronaldo restricted to shopping excursions
AC Milan to throw bank at Palermo star Amauri
Branca: Inter Milan fully supportive of Adriano
Oriali confirms Inter Milan interest for Menez
Roma's De Rossi admits frustration with Inter consistency

UEFA CUP VIDEO GOALS

2007-12-07T01:32:00.000+01:00

FK CRVENA ZVEZDA - BOLTON FC 0:1

ANDERLECHT - TOTENHAM 1:1

AALBORG - GETAFE 1:2

LEVERKUSEN - SPARTA PRAGHA 1:0

Resumen Bayer Leverkusen - Sparta Praha www.futvolgoles.es
Uploaded by futvolblog

UEFA MATCH PREVIEW

2007-12-06T15:39:00.000+01:00

Spartak Moskva - Zürich

FC Spartak Moskva and FC Zürich can book their place in the last 32 with a game to spare as they meet in their third Group E game in the Russian capital.

• Spartak won their opener at home against Bayer 04 Leverkusen 2-1 and then earned a 0-0 draw at AC Sparta Praha to take second place in the section. Three points against Swiss champions Zürich would ensure them a top-three finish.
• Zürich won 2-1 at Sparta in their opening game and then beat Toulouse FC 2-0 at home. One more point would leave them certain of a place in the next phase of the competition.
• Zürich are at home against Leverkusen in their final Group E game on 19 December while Spartak travel to Toulouse.
• The two sides have never met in UEFA club competition.
• Spartak have played nine games against Swiss sides in UEFA club competition, including a match at home against FC Sion which had to be replayed after it was discovered that the goalposts were 8cm short of regulation height.
• That match took place in the 1997/98 UEFA Cup first round. Spartak had won the first leg in Switzerland 1-0 and then drew 2-2 at home, only to be told to replay the game because of the miscalculation. They won the replay 5-1.
• In total they have won four games against Swiss sides, drawing two and losing three. At home they have won two, drawn two and lost one. Those stats include the abandoned game against Sion.
• Zürich are playing their first game against Russian opposition.
• Zürich coach Bernard Challandes has been to Russia twice before as coach of the Swiss Under-21 side, drawing 3-3 in a 2002 UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualifier and winning 2-1 in the 2004 qualifying campaign.
• Spartak coach Stanislav Cherchesov played in a 2-0 defeat against Zürich's main Swiss league rivals FC Basel 1893 in one of his last games at European level in the 2002/03 UEFA Champions League group stage. The goalkeeper was 39 years and 15 days old.
• Challandes was suspended for the game against Toulouse, while striker Eric Hassli still has two more matches of a three-game ban to serve with both men being punished for their parts in incidents in the 2-1 win at Sparta.
• Spartak midfielder Renat Sabitov will miss the remainder of their 2007 games after breaking his leg in a friendly game against Spanish side Elche CF.
• Leverkusen are at home against Sparta in Thursday's other Group E game.

Bayer Leverkusen - Sparta Pragha

AC Sparta Praha coach Michal Bílek can avenge an old defeat as his side face Michael Skibbe's Bayer 04 Leverkusen in UEFA Cup Group E.

• Leverkusen coach Skibbe came up against Czech opposition in his first UEFA club competition games, leading BV Borussia Dortmund to back-to-back 1-0 wins against FK Teplice in the third qualifying round of the 1999/00 UEFA Champions League.
• Sparta coach Bílek, then nearing the end of his career as a defender and midfielder, was on the losing side in both legs of that game.
• Skibbe never had a significant playing career, being forced to retire in his early 20s after tearing cruciate ligaments three times during a spell at FC Schalke 04. He played just 14 Bundesliga games for the club between 1984 and 1986.
• He moved into coaching at the age of just 22, with the youth teams at Schalke and then Dortmund. Appointed as Dortmund's head coach in 1998 at 32, he became the youngest coach of all time in the Bundesliga.
• Bílek, by contrast, had an excellent playing career, representing Czechoslovakia and the Czech Republic at international level, and playing with the former at the 1990 FIFA World Cup finals. He spent much of his club career with Sparta, playing abroad with Real Betis Balompié between 1990 and 1992.
• Leverkusen beat Toulouse FC 1-0 at home in their opening game but lost 2-1 at FC Spartak Moskva in their second. A win against Sparta would put them in the last 32 of the competition regardless of the outcome of their final game at FC Zürich.
• Sparta are third in the section with four points, but need a win in their final Group E outing at the BayArena to be certain of progress.
• Leverkusen's young Czech striker Michal Papadopulos may play against two former team-mates, having played with Sparta pair Zdenĕk Pospĕch and Miroslav Matušovič at FC Baník Ostrava.
• The two sides have never met in UEFA club competition.
• Leverkusen have played six games against Czech opposition in the past, winning three, drawing two and losing one. At home, they have drawn once and won their last two games against Czech oppositions 2-0 and 5-0.
• Sparta have played ten games against German sides over the years, winning four, drawing two and losing four. In Germany itself, they have won once, drawn twice and lost twice.

Aris - Braga

A win at home against SC Braga will send FC Aris Thessaloniki through to the Round of 32 but their Portuguese guests will not give in easily.

• After two Group F games, Aris are second having drawn 1-1 at Bolton Wanderers FC before overwhelming FK Crvena Zvezda – Aris coach Dušan Bajević's previous club – 3-0 on Matchday 2. Another win would see them through to the last 32 regardless of the result from their final game at FC Bayern München.
• Braga have come from behind to draw both of their Group F games to date, 1-1 at Bolton and 1-1 at home against Bayern.
• Aris boast an awesome home record in UEFA club competition, and are still unbeaten in 17 games in Salonika since making UEFA club competition debut in 1970. They did, however, lose home games in the Inter-Cities Fairs Cup – the non-UEFA affiliated precursor to the UEFA Cup.
• The two sides have never met in UEFA club competition.
• Aris have played two games against Portuguese opposition, having been drawn against SL Benfica in the first round of the 1979/80 UEFA Cup. They won 3-1 at home and lost 2-1 in Lisbon to progress, and going on to reach the third round.
• Braga have played two games against Greek opposition too, meeting AEK Athens FC in the first round of the 1966/67 UEFA Cup Winners' Cup. They won the away leg 1-0 and then triumphed 3-2 at home. They were then knocked out in the second round.
• Aris defender Ronaldo Guiaro and Braga forward João Tomás were team-mates at Benfica up until the end of the 2001/02 season.
• Aris coach Dušan Bajević has been involved in eight games against Portuguese sides, or to be more specific, eight games against FC Porto.
• As a player, he scored twice as his AEK Athens FC side thrashed Porto 6-1 at home and lost 4-1 away in the 1978/79 European Champion Clubs' Cup.
• During his time as Olympiacos CFP coach, he was then paired with Porto in three successive UEFA Champions League group stage campaigns - 1997/98, 1998/99 and 1999/00.
• His side won all three home matches against Porto, drawing one away and losing the other two.
• He thus goes into the game against Braga having won all four of his previous home games against Portuguese opposition.
• Bajević celebrates his 59th birthday on 10 December, four days after the game against Braga.

Crvena Zvezda - Bolton

FK Crvena Zvezda are looking to salvage their UEFA Cup campaign as they seek their first Group F points against draw specialists Bolton Wanderers FC.

• Two games have brought Crvena Zvezda no points. They lost 3-2 at home against FC Bayern München in their opening fixture and then 3-0 away against an FC Aris Thessaloniki side coached by their former boss Dušan Bajević.
• However, wins in their final games against both Bolton and SC Braga would guarantee the Serbian side a place in the last 32.
• Bolton have drawn their home games against Braga and Aris 1-1 either side of a 2-2 draw against Bayern in Munich. A fourth draw might see them reach the next phase of the tournament, but they will be looking for a win. However, they have not won away in their last five European games.
• Both clubs have parted company with coaches since the start of the season. Milorad Kosanović resigned in the wake of the 3-0 defeat at Aris while Sammy Lee was replaced at Bolton following a poor start in the Premier League.
• Aleksandar Janković is the new man in charge at Crvena Zvezda. The 35-year-old spent much of his coaching career as assistant to Slavoljub Muslin at Crvena Zvezda, PFC Levski Sofia, FC Metalurh Donetsk, KSC Lokeren OV and FC Lokomotiv Moskva.
• The game against Bolton will be his first in Europe since taking over from Kosanović.
• New Bolton manager Gary Megson has led Bolton to draws in both of his UEFA Cup games since taking charge but made a major breakthrough in the Premier League on 24 November, leading his side to a 1-0 win against champions Manchester United FC.
• Bolton's Swedish midfielder Christian Wilhelmsson celebrates his 27th birthday on 8 December, two days after the game.
• The two sides have never met in UEFA club competition.
• Crvena Zvezda have played 15 games against English sides over the years, winning six, drawing five and losing four. Those defeats include a 1-0 loss against Manchester United FC in the 1991 UEFA Super Cup.
• Crvena Zvezda are yet to lose a European home match against an English side, recording five wins and two draws in their seven home games – including a 3-1 win against Leicester City FC which was played on neutral territory at the Gerhard Hanappi Stadium in Vienna due to concerns over the political climate in Belgrade.
• In only their second UEFA club competition campaign, Bolton have never played against a side from Serbia.

AaB - Getafe

Getafe CF coach Michael Laudrup will return to his native Denmark on Matchday 4 with hosts Aalborg BK eager to lift themselves off the foot of Group G.

• European debutants Getafe are third in the section after winning their opening tie 2-1 at Tottenham Hotspur FC, but losing at home to Hapoel Tel-Aviv FC by the same score on Matchday 3.
• They face RSC Anderlecht at home in their final group stage fixture on 19 December.
• AaB drew 1-1 at home against Anderlecht in their first game, then let a 2-0 half-time lead slip at Tottenham to lose 3-2 on Matchday 3.
• AaB are bottom of the group and are the only side in the section yet to win a game. Wins in both of their remaining fixtures, against Getafe and at Hapoel on 19 December, would guarantee them a place in the last 32.
• Laudrup has spent much of his career flitting between Denmark and Spain.
• Now 43, he scored 37 goals in 104 games for Denmark and also won five straight league titles in Spain with FC Barcelona and Real Madrid CF.
• Born in Copenhagen, he started his career with Kjobenhavns BK – one of the predecessors of the current FC København – before joining Brøndby IF in 1982. He moved to Juventus in 1983, and spent two seasons on loan with S.S. Lazio before joining Barça in 1989.
• He switched to Madrid in 1994, and then played for Vissel Kobe and AFC Ajax before hanging up his boots in 1998.
• Since then, he has been assistant national team coach with Denmark between 2000 and 2002 and coach of Brøndby between 2002 and 2006. He replaced Bernd Schuster at the Getafe helm in July.
• AaB and Getafe have never met in UEFA club competition, though AaB were drawn against a Spanish side once before, meeting RC Deportivo La Coruña in the first round of the 1993/94 UEFA Cup. They won 1-0 at home but lost 5-0 in the return.
• AaB's Swedish coach Erik Hamrén came up against Spanish opposition during his time in charge of AIK Solna. His side were drawn against Barça in the 1996/97 UEFA Cup Winners' Cup quarter-finals, losing 3-1 at Camp Nou and then drawing 1-1 in Sweden. Ronaldo scored against them in both legs.
• AaB's Brazilian forward Chrys celebrates his 21st birthday on 6 December, the day of the game against Getafe.

Anderlecht - Tottenham

RSC Anderlecht are preparing to meet Tottenham Hotspur FC for the first time since 1984, when the two sides played each other in the UEFA Cup final over two legs.

• The English side prevailed 4-3 on penalties after 1-1 draws in both legs of the tie, to deny Anderlecht as they attempted to become the first side to defend the UEFA Cup. They beat SL Benfica in the 1982/83 final, but Paul van Himst's side came up short following the second leg at White Hart Lane.
• Paul Miller put Tottenham ahead in the first leg in Brussels but Morten Olsen – now Denmark coach – equalised five minutes from time.
• Alexandre Czerniatynski then put Anderlecht ahead in the second leg, only for Graham Roberts to level late on, taking the game into extra time and then penalties. Roberts, Marc Falco, Gary Stevens and Steve Archibald converted from the spot for Tottenham, with Daniel Thomas missing their final effort. Olsen missed Anderlecht's first, and while Kenneth Brylle Larsen, Enzo Scifo and recently-dismissed coach Frank Vercauteren converted the next three, Arnór Gudjohnsen's miss handed Tottenham victory.
• Arnór Gudjohnsen is the father of FC Barcelona star Eidur Gudjohnsen.
• Also lining up for Anderlecht in that tie were current Belgium coach René Vandereycken and former Tottenham sporting director Frank Arnesen, now at Chelsea FC.
• Tottenham are top of Group G having played three games. Coach Martin Jol was dismissed after their 2-1 defeat at home by Getafe CF, and they have since won 2-0 at Hapoel Tel-Aviv FC and 3-2 at home against Aalborg BK under Juande Ramos.
• A point at Anderlecht would put them in the last 32 and leave former Sevilla FC coach Ramos on course for an unprecedented third successive UEFA Cup triumph.
• Anderlecht, playing in their first European game since Ariël Jacobs replaced Vercauteren as coach, have four points after a 2-0 home win against Hapoel and a 1-1 draw at AaB. Victory would take them through to the last 32 regardless of their Matchday 5 result at Getafe.
• Anderlecht have played 27 games against English sides, winning six, drawing three and losing 18. At home, they have won five, drawn two and lost six.
• They have lost their last six games, home and away, against English sides.
• Tottenham have played five games against Belgian sides, winning two, drawing two and losing one. They have not won in two games on Belgian soil - drawing one and losing one - but beat Club Brugge KV 3-1 at home in last season's UEFA Cup group stage.
• Anderlecht forward Mbo Mpenza celebrates his 31st birthday on 4 December, two days before the Tottenham game.
• Anderlecht midfielder Bart Goor and Tottenham's Hossam Ghaly were team-mates at Feyenoord in 2004/05.
• Anderlecht goalkeeper Davy Schollen and Tottenham midfielder Didier Zokora played together at KRC Genk between 2002 and 2004.

Austria Wien - Panionios

successive UEFA Cup group stage defeat as they hope to revive their Group H fortunes against Panionios GSS.

• Appearing in their third group stage campaign, Austria lost their opener 2-1 against FC Girondins de Bordeaux and then 3-0 at Helsingborgs IF on Matchday 3 to spark fears that they might end the group stage with no points for the second season in succession, having lost all of their games in the 2006/07 competition.
• Another defeat would end their chances of progressing, and leave them with a joyless trip to Galatasaray AS for their final game on 19 December.
• One of five Greek sides in the group stage, Panionios drew their opener 1-1 at Helsingborg before losing 3-0 at home to Galatasaray on Matchday 3. Wins against Austria and Bordeaux, in their final group outing, represent their only guaranteed route to qualification.
• The two sides have never met in UEFA club competition but Austria have met Greek opposition in one previous tie, taking on Panathinaikos FC in the first round of the 1982/83 UEFA Cup Winners' Cup. They won 2-0 at home but lost 2-1 in Athens.
• Panionios have never played against an Austrian side.
• Panionios coach Ewald Lienen played four games against Austrian sides as a player with VfL Borussia Mönchengladbach in the late 1970s, with his team winning three games and losing one. His trips to Austria netted his side a win and a defeat.
• A midfielder with Mönchengladbach in their 1970s prime, Lienen played in two UEFA Cup finals. He was a winner in 1978/79, beating FK Crvena Zvezda 2-1 on aggregate, but lost the following season's final on away goals to Bundesliga rivals Eintracht Frankfurt.

Bordeaux - Helsingborg

Henrik Larsson and Andreas Jakobsson may be making their final professional appearances as Helsingborgs IF round of their successful Group H campaign at FC Girondins de Bordeaux.

• After his side secured qualification with a 3-0 win against FK Austria Wien on Matchday 3, the 36-year-old Larsson said: "It feels great to go through, but I've been here before and I'm happier for many of my team-mates. I've not yet decided what will happen after this season. I'm going to make my decision in the coming days and I'll let everyone know about it as soon as possible."
• The 35-year-old defensive midfielder Jakobsson has agreed to take up a coaching post at lower league side Svalövs BK next year. However, he may yet be persuaded to stay on for a little while longer. "There's one game to go and that's all that I'm thinking about at the moment," he said. "I'm focused on Svalöv after this season, but who knows?"
• The two sides have never met in UEFA club competition but Bordeaux have played three games against Swedish sides, winning them all.
• Helsingborg's only previous trip to France saw them lose 4-1 at Paris Saint-Germain FC in a 2000/01 UEFA Champions League first group stage game. They drew the home fixture 1-1.
• Larsson has played against Bordeaux before with Celtic FC in a 2000/01 UEFA Cup first round tie. His side lost 2-1 at home and then the striker scored in a 1-1 draw in France as Celtic bowed out.
• Legendary former France defender Laurent Blanc, now coach of Bordeaux, came up against Larsson in two international friendlies, a 0-0 draw in 1997 and a 1-0 win for France a year later.
• Bordeaux will qualify for the Round of 32 with a point against Helsingborg, having won their opening two games against Galatasaray AS and Austria, both 2-1.
• Helsingborg's season is already over, but a disappointing eighth-placed finish in the Allsvenskan has inspired them to do better in Europe.
• The Swedish side boast two of the competition’s three top scorers since the first round – five-goal Larsson and six-goal Razak Omotoyossi.
• The match in Bordeaux is Helsingborg’s 50th in UEFA club competition since making their continental debut in the 1996/97 UEFA Cup.

DAILY FOOTBALL NEWS AND HEADLINES

2007-12-06T15:20:00.001+01:00

ENGLAND

Abramovich wants Ronaldinho, Rijkaard at Chelsea
Barcelona pair Ronaldinho and coach Frank Rijkaard are being lined up for a move to Chelsea, it has been revealed.
Man Utd rival Chelsea for Ivanovic
Real Madrid offered £25M for Arsenal's Cesc
Valencia's Miguel happy with Chelsea interest
Real Madrid's Drenthe cools Chelsea link
Man City boss Eriksson ready to hand Hamman new deal
Celtic, Rangers join interest for Blackburn's McCarthy
Derby boss Jewell going back to Wigan for Kilbane
Arsenal boss Wenger: Newcastle just like Bolton
Voronin: Strikers can fire Liverpool to glory
Torres enjoying team ethic at Liverpool
Zahavi spearheads Chelsea bid for Barcelona's Ronaldinho
Norwich want to keep Man City striker Evans
Zenit's Arshavin happy with Newcastle interest
Portsmouth ready to cash in on Nugent
Jonas wants Portsmouth move
Juventus director Elkann: I don't know about Chelsea's Shevchenko
Arsenal's Adebayor: I'm now bigger, stronger
Spurs, Liverpool must pay buyout clauses for Espanyol pair
Juventus agree personal terms with Villa's Mellberg
0Man Utd's Ferguson: Anderson best youngster in world
Drogba injury rocks Chelsea
Saha insists Man Utd can win the lot
Partizan Belgrade insist no sale for Man Utd, Man City target Jovetic
Spurs rival Portsmouth for Meira
Wigan boss Bruce plans big spending January market
Inter Milan, Villa wait to pounce for Bolton's Jaaskelainen
Man City favourites for Basel striker Caciedo
Bolton, Portsmouth tracking PSG's Mendy
Bolton won't be rattled in Belgrade - Speed
Man Utd striker Tevez: I love playing with Rooney
Chelsea's Essien urges England to snap up Mourinho
Wigan boss Bruce: Bramble crucial for me
Chelsea to bid for Bolton's Anelka
West Ham, Blackburn keen on Crewe keeper Fon Williams
Injury concerns allayed for Everton's Vaughan
Reading's Sonko: Hahneman row now over
Dzemaili makes successful Bolton comeback
Ward delighted with new Sunderland chance
Spurs rival Everton for Cardiff's Gunter
Preston boss explains decision to send Halls back to Reading
Valencia's Joaquin: I turned down mega bucks Chelsea move
Blackburn boss Hughes calm over McCarthy strop
Liverpool boss Benitez delighted with Guthrie progress
Rush: Crouch must stay at Liverpool

SPAIN

Van Basten lined up to replace Rijkaard at Barcelona.
De Assis: Ronaldinho could renew Barcelona contract
Real Madrid coach Schuster tells Dudek he's staying
Barcelona's Rijkaard: I don't feel pressure to keep job
Barcelona coach Rijkaard throws down gauntlet to Ronaldinho
Schuster hints at Soldado Real Madrid exit
Real Madrid touting Drenthe to Dutch clubs
Mallorca's Trejo open to loan exit
Valladolid tracking Newell's Old Boys No1 Villar
Etoile report Atletico Madrid to FIFA over Adams deal
Dudek unsettled at Real Madrid
Gonzalo Castro committed to Real Mallorca
Pavone committed to Real Betis
Wolfsburg eyeing Valencia keeper Hildebrand
Agent: Maresca settled at Sevilla
Crocked Henry heaping pressure on Barcelona board
Mourinho assistants fuel Barcelona talk
Schuster puts Real Madrid fringe players in shop window
Deco rails against Barcelona medical staff
Atletico Madrid join race for Van der Vaart
Morientes: Valencia must stay united
Zaragoza's Aimar open to River Plate return
Metz option for Villarreal's Pires
Betis keen on Real Madrid striker Soldado
Getafe's Ustari: Worst period of my career
Valencia coach Koeman in Ruiz row
Deportivo La Coruna president Lendoiro: We'll back Lotina in market

ITALY

AC Milan's Maldini considers retirement after Japan. AC Milan captain Paolo Maldini could make a shock retirement announcement during their Club World Championships campaign in Japan.
Inter Milan plan bid for Real Madrid's Diarra
Juventus return for Palermo defender Barzagli
Fiorentina, Palermo go for Internacional star Roger
Inter Milan coach Mancini: We're keeping eye on Roma, Juve
AC Milan boss Ancelotti: Dida can make Celtic clash
Secco defends Juventus summer market work
AC Milan ponder Torino raid for Rosina
Brocchi, Gourcuff unsettled at AC Milan
Secco admits Juventus risk losing Del Piero
Berlusconi: No panic at AC Milan
Mancini: Inter Milan need fit Ibrahimovic
Simic ready to quit AC Milan
Torino coach Novellino warns contract rebel Rosina
Del Piero unsure of Juventus contract talks
Berlusconi defends AC Milan summer signing policy
Negro fears being forced abroad
Montolivo to win new Fiorentina deal
Casiraghi cools hype for Empoli's Giovinco
Parma to unveil Mariga
Roma's Totti won't rule out Italy return
Rossi grateful to Lazio for Real Madrid chance
Spalletti admits Roma not in 'best shape' for Man Utd clash
Lazio president Lotito: Rocchi talks continuing
Juventus keep tabs on PSV's Da Costa
Seedorf urges AC Milan teammates to ignore crisis talk
Siena president insists Mandorlini safe
Agent: Lazio can't afford AC Milan's Gilardino
Roma's Totti: I want to beat Man Utd 7-0!
Lotito expects strong Lazio showing against Real Madrid
Napoli chief Marino can't see busy January market

GERMANY

Bayern Munich general manager Uli Hoeness has admitted that Willy Sagnol has fallen out with coach Ottmar Hitzfeld.
Ismael on his way to Hannover
Radeljic joins Cottbus
Muller signs Schalke deal
Ribery enjoyed silencing fans
European weekend review
Magath open to Lehmann bid
Meira coy on Pompey interest

FRANCE

Francis Malonga Ntsayi rescued a late 1-1 draw for Nancy to keep the pressure on struggling Toulouse.
Pagis linked with Addicks move
Houllier & McCarthy targeted for new coach of South Korea

HOLLAND

Ajax are set to step up their bid to sign Croatian starlet Luka Modric.
Gunners eye Afellay but PSV dismiss Aissati talk
Ajax striker Leonardo is on the comeback trail after a nine-month injury absence.

UEFA CUP VIDEO GOALS

2007-12-06T01:38:00.000+01:00

FC EVERTON - FC ZENIT 1:0

CF VILLAREAL - FC ELFSBORG 2:0

FC PANATHINAIKOS - LOKOMOTIV MOSCOW 2:0

NK DINAMO ZAGREB - HAMBURGER FC 0:2

FC KOPENHAGEN - ATLETICO MADRID 0:2

FC BASEL - FC BRANN 1:0

UEFA CUP RESULTS

2007-12-06T00:34:00.000+01:00

Cahill strike confirms Everton progress
Everton FC 1-0 FC Zenit St. Petersburg
Tim Cahill scored with five minutes left against ten-man Zenit to take Everton FC through as Group A winners.

Timely Hamburg secure passage
NK Dinamo Zagreb 0-2 Hamburger SV
Nigel de Jong and Piotr Trochowski scored in the last two minutes to ensure Hamburg's Round of 32 berth.

Atlético advance but FCK must wait
FC København 0-2 Club Atlético de Madrid
Simão and Agüero scored in either half as Atlético won in the Danish capital to seal passage to the last 32.

Tomasson takes Villarreal through
Villarreal CF 2-0 IF Elfsborg
Jon Dahl Tomasson scored twice to secure Villarreal's progress as the Swedish visitors' dream was ended.

Carlitos shows way to last 32
FC Basel 1893 1-0 SK Brann A Carlitos winner means Basel will visit fellow qualifiers Hamburger SV with a chance of topping Group D.

Mintál goals give Nürnberg hope
1. FC Nürnberg 2-1 AZ Alkmaar Substitute Marek Mintál struck twice as Nürnberg came from behind late on to revive their Group A ambitions.

Salpigidis double derails Lokomotiv
Panathinaikos FC 2-0 FC Lokomotiv Moskva Two second-half Dimitrios Salpigidis goals ended Lokomotiv's interest in this season's UEFA Cup.

Nsaliwa puts AEK on the brink
FK Mladá Boleslav 0-1 AEK Athens FC A lone Tamandani Nsaliwa strike boosted AEK Athens FC's chances of progressing through to the last 32.

Manchester to unveil final design
The visual identity for the 2008 UEFA Cup final at the City of Manchester Stadium will be unveiled at a special ceremony in the English city on Thursday.

Bayern's Altıntop sidelined until 2008
FC Bayern München midfielder Hamit Altıntop will be out of action until next year after undergoing surgery on torn cartilage in his right knee on Tuesday.

Ujfaluši a worry for Fiorentina
Czech Republic defender Tomáš Ujfaluši risks missing ACF Fiorentina's final Group C game against FK Mladá Boleslav after damaging knee ligaments.

Olić severs home ties for Hamburg
Ivica Olić may be forced to break his brother's heart as Hamburger SV head to NK Dinamo Zagreb needing a draw to progress to the last 32 of the UEFA Cup.

Ščasný ready to avenge AEK defeat
Zdeněk Ščasný remembers Greek wine and coffee with fondness but the coach has a score to settle with AEK Athens FC as they visit FK Mladá Boleslav tonight.

UEFA Cup keeps Everton on the up
FC Zenit St. Petersburg may be newly crowned Russian champions but Everton FC are gathering momentum going into today's game at Goodison Park.

Laudrup factor stokes AaB fire
Aalborg BK players are thrilled at the prospect of facing a Getafe CF side coached by Danish hero Michael Laudrup as they seek a crucial UEFA Cup win tonight.

FOOTBALL NEWS

2007-12-06T00:29:00.000+01:00

ENGLAND

Courageous Newcastle stop Arsenal run. Newcastle United stormed back in the second-half to draw 1-1 with Arsenal at St James' Park.
Jol: I'm still best man for Tottenham job
Liverpool chief Parry dismisses Capello link
Cahill nets late Everton winner against Zenit
Keegan: Barton wrong to rap Newcastle fans

SPAIN

Crocked Henry heaping pressure on Barcelona board. Former Barcelona vice-president Sandro Rosell has slammed the signing of Thierry Henry
Mourinho assistants fuel Barcelona talk
Schuster puts Real Madrid fringe players in shop window
Deco rails against Barcelona medical staff
Atletico Madrid join race for Van der Vaart

ITALY

Torino, AC Milan battle to bring Lucarelli back to Italy. torino are considering a move for Shakhtar Donetsk striker Cristiano Lucarelli.
Inter Milan chief Branca plans Adriano trip
Stuttgart contact Juventus for Boumsong
Malesani open to Empoli return for Juventus outcast Almiron
Ancelotti delighted for AC Milan record-breaker Inzaghi

FOOTBALL NEWS

2007-12-03T02:40:00.000+01:00

ENGLAND

Chelsea striker Didier Drogba has hit out at the fan who targeted him with a laser during their 1-0 win over West Ham on Saturday.
Chelsea's Obi clears up name confusion
Villa skipper Barry: We need new signings
Giggs: Man Utd happy to have Rooney back
Sir Bobby reveals his England shortlist
Kirkland defends Wigan pal Bramble after blunder
McManaman admits Birmingham takeover won't meet deadline
Gold keen to stay at Birmingham
Chelsea's Drogba hopeful of overhauling Arsenal
Portsmouth chief Storrie in dark over arrest
McShane: Sunderland season now starts
Southgate confident Middlesbrough players are with him
Kirkland: Bruce influence already felt at Wigan
Man Utd's Ferdinand backs Mourinho for England
Redknapp: Best Portsmouth team in 50 years
Benitez happy Liverpool "sharing goals around"
Birmingham boss McLeish thrilled with Larsson winner
Mascherano confident Benitez staying with Liverpool
Crouch: No problems with rotations
Adebayor: Arsenal happy to prove doubters wrong
Platini: UEFA known for some time match-fixing problems
Bolton boss Megson ponders Guthrie deal
FA insist no England shortlist yet drawn up
Beckham happy to finish season with LA Galaxy win
Portsmouth boss Redknapp targets "three or four" new players
Man Utd draw Villa in FA Cup
Wembley in running for Saturday Champions League final
England consider May date for Scotland match
UEFA deny Euro2008 qualifier investigated
Liverpool owners put Benitez on notice
Shearer lined up to replace Allardyce at Newcastle
Agent: Premiership better than Italy for Arsenal, Chelsea target Modric
Middlesbrough table bid for Barcelona star Ronaldinho
Agent expects Chelsea to win Ivanovic race
West Ham eyeing Newcastle fullback Carr
Stubbs in line for Everton assistant manager's job
Portsmouth following Lorient striker Saifi
Van der Sar: I should've joined Man Utd sooner
Reading boss cools defensive bust-up
Murphy urges Fulham to be brave against Man Utd
Dein: Spurs can benefit like Arsenal from stadium change
Arsenal pals full of praise for Hleb
Banks slates McClaren for selecting Villa's Carson
Giggs confident Man Utd can handle rough stuff
Sanchez battling to keep Fulham job
Liverpool owners to cough up for Mascherano
Defoe: Ramos has changed a lot at Spurs
McLeish challenges Birmingham players ahead of January market
Crouch unsure of Liverpool future
Arsenal to recall Djourou from Birmingham

SPAIN

Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard started Ronaldinho on the bench for last night's 1-1 draw at Espanyol.
Kaka has pledged his future to AC Milan after winning the Ballon d'Or yesterday.
Schuster angry with Real Madrid media leaks
Robinho: I want to be world's best at Real Madrid
Casillas celebrates 400th Real Madrid game with victory
Valencia in Inter Milan talks for Maxwell
Villarreal better without Riquelme - Pellegrini
Edmilson wants Barcelona exit
Corominas: I want Espanyol stay
Albelda urges Valencia fans to recognise players' commitment
Baptista delighted with winning Real Madrid return
Sao Paulo won't meet Betis price for Jorge Wagner
Penarol eyeing Valladolid winger Estoyanoff
Rijkaard: Espanyol's Valverde good Barcelona option
Real Madrid step up bid for Roma's De Rossi
Nantes striker Keseru in Racing Santander sights
Ramis keen on new Mallorca contract
Villarreal's Riquelme completes Boca Juniors move
Scolari: Barcelona's Ronaldinho already past his peak
Ronaldinho tells Barcelona pals: I'm the black sheep!
Real Madrid ponder Juventus swap offer for Saviola

ITALY

Kaka has pledged his future to AC Milan after winning the Ballon d'Or yesterday.
AC Milan make contact with ex-Chelsea boss Mourinho
Fenerbahce to send Appiah to Juventus
Ibrahimovic: Inter Milan is my home
Mancini: Only Roma can stop Inter Milan
AC Milan boss Ancelotti: Dida can make Celtic clash
Secco defends Juventus summer market work
AC Milan ponder Torino raid for Rosina
Brocchi, Gourcuff unsettled at AC Milan
Secco admits Juventus risk losing Del Piero
Berlusconi: No panic at AC Milan
Mancini: Inter Milan need fit Ibrahimovic
Simic ready to quit AC Milan
Torino coach Novellino warns contract rebel Rosina
Del Piero unsure of Juventus contract talks
Berlusconi defends AC Milan summer signing policy
Negro fears being forced abroad
Montolivo to win new Fiorentina deal
Casiraghi cools hype for Empoli's Giovinco
Parma to unveil Mariga
Roma's Totti won't rule out Italy return
Rossi grateful to Lazio for Real Madrid chance
Spalletti admits Roma not in 'best shape' for Man Utd clash
Lazio president Lotito: Rocchi talks continuing
Juventus keep tabs on PSV's Da Costa
Seedorf urges AC Milan teammates to ignore crisis talk
Siena president insists Mandorlini safe
Agent: Lazio can't afford AC Milan's Gilardino
Roma's Totti: I want to beat Man Utd 7-0!
Lotito expects strong Lazio showing against Real Madrid
Napoli chief Marino can't see busy January market

WEEKEND VIDEO GOALS

2007-12-03T02:28:00.000+01:00

2-1 Werder Bremen vs. Hamburger SV Goals - MyVideo

SPORTS BETTING NEWS

2007-11-30T21:32:00.000+01:00

ENGLAND

Man. City 30.11 : Midfielder Elano will miss Manchester City's trip to Wigan Athletic on Saturday after picking up a hamstring injury in training. The 26-year-old Brazilian international, a key player of the club's success this season, has scored five goals since arriving from Shakhtar Donetsk in August for a €12m fee. Elano joins Darius Vassell on the sidelines, after the striker was ruled out for two weeks with a knee injury.

Birming. 29.11 : Alex McLeish has been unveiled as the new manager of Premier League strugglers Birmingham City, a day after resigning as coach of Scotland. The 48-year-old Scotsman takes over from Steve Bruce, who left the club after six years last week to join Wigan Athletic. McLeish can expect to at least double the salary Scotland were paying him, according to British newspaper reports. He has agreed a three-and-a-half year contract with Birmingham City.

Middlesb. 29.11 : Middlesbrough have received a double injury blow with Mido likely to be out until the New Year and Mark Schwarzer set to miss Saturday's match at Reading. Australian goalkeeper Schwarzer, an ever-present this season, has damaged a thumb while Egyptian striker Mido faces a prolonged spell on the sidelines with a persistent groin injury. Mido has only played in five Premier League games since joining from Tottenham Hotspur in August.

Everton 29.11 : Defender Alan Stubbs is expected to be sidelined for four weeks after picking up a calf injury in training. The 36-year-old centre-back has made eight Premier League appearances this season and two in the UEFA Cup. Stubbs will miss Everton's remaining UEFA Cup home game against Zenit St. Petersburg and AZ Alkmaar.

Portsm. 29.11 : Portsmouth manager Harry Redknapp and chief executive Peter Storrie were among five people arrested on Wednesday by police investigating corruption in English football. Redknapp, who is being linked to the vacant role as England coach, was questioned at a police station and later released. Redknapp returned to the club's training ground Thursday and insisted that he had done nothing wrong. The others were former Portsmouth chairman Milan Mandaric, now in charge at Championship side Leicester City, former Portsmouth player Amdy Faye and his agent, Willie McKay.

Derby 28.11 : Paul Jewell was appointed as the new manager of Derby County, the last-place team in the Premier League with only six points from 14 games. The 43-year-old has signed a three-and-a-half year contract to replace Billy Davies, who left the club on Monday. Jewell quit as Wigan Athletic manager in May after securing their Premiership survival on the last day of last season. He now has taken on the challenge of saving promoted Derby from the drop.

Birming. 28.11 : Alex McLeish has stepped down as Scotland's national team coach with immediate effect after only 10 months, clearing the way for him to become the manager of English Premier League club Birmingham. The 48-year-old took the team to within one win of a place at EURO 2008, missing out with a 2-1 home defeat by Italy in their final game City. McLeish has been linked with the vacant manager's post at Birmingham following the departure of Steve Bruce, who quit to take over at Wigan last week.

Liverpool 27.11 : Manager Rafael Benitez's future at Liverpool appears in doubt after falling out with the club's American owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett over transfer funds. "They don't understand the transfer window in Europe," Benitez said after last weekend's 3-0 win at Newcastle. It was the Spaniard's latest outburst against what he claims is the owners' refusal to let him pursue new signings in the January transfer period.

ITALY

Palermo 27.11 : Palermo have parted company coach Stefano Colantuono after a 5-0 defeat by Juventus and rehired his predecessor Francesco Guidolin. Colantuono arrived from Atalanta last summer but has failed to live up to the high expectations of Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini with 18 points from 13 Serie A games. Guidolin, 52, returns for his fourth stint at the Sicilian club, after leading the team in 2004/05 and 2006/07, when he was sacked in April and reappointed in May.

Empoli 27.11 : Alberto Malesani has replaced Luigi Cagni as coach of Empoli after a disappointing start of the season. The Serie A side have taken just ten points from 13 games and scored only seven goals with 19 allowed. The 51-year-old Malesani previously coached Udinese, Modena, Verona, Parma and Fiorentina. Cagni, who led Empoli to a UEFA Cup place last term, was the sixth coach to lose his job in the Serie A this campaign.

Milan 27.11 : Milan will be without midfielder Massimo Ambrosini and forward Filippo Inzaghi when they visit Benfica in the the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday. Ambrosini, who suffered a thigh injury in Sunday's 2-1 win at Cagliari, will have further scans to determine the full extent of his problem, though he would not have played in Lisbon anyway because of suspension. Inzaghi is also unavailable because of a bout of flu. Clarence Seedorf remains doubtful after missing the Cagliari game with an ankle injury.

Roma 26.11 : Captain Francesco Totti will miss Tuesday's UEFA Champions League visit to Dynamo Kyiv after aggravating a foot injury in training last week. The Italy playmaker suffered a knock on the same foot he injured in the 2-1 win against Sporting on October 23. There was some good news for Roma as midfielders Taddei and Alberto Aquilani both resumed training, though Aquilani will also not travel to Kiev. Neither player featured in the 1-0 defeat of Genoa on Saturday.

25.11 : Milan got a much-needed victory in Serie A, coming from behind to defeat Cagliari 2-1 for only their fourth win of the season. The European champions could have won by a larger margin but Cagliari goalkeeper Marco Fortin saved a 44th-minute penalty kick by Kaka after Ronaldo was fouled in the area. The result moved Milan up to ninth place and sent Cagliari bottom.

Juventus and Udinese both leapfrogged Fiorentina to move into third and fourth place respectively. David Trezeguet scored his league-leading 11th goal of the season to help Juventus beat Palermo 5-0. Udinese enjoyed a 2-0 success against Siena, while Fiorentina were held to a 0-0 draw at Reggina, Inter beat Atalanta 2-1 to maintain their lead in the Serie A, while second-placed Roma edged Genoa 1-0.

Udinese 25.11 : Coach Pasquale Marino has extended his contract with Udinese following a successful start to the season. The 45-year-old, who arrived from Catania in the summer, has signed a new three-year contract that keeps him at the club until 2012. Financial terms were not disclosed. Marino has guided Udinese into fourth position, just three points behind leaders Inter.

Milan 24.11 : "I'm ready, but it's up to the coach to decide whether I play or not," said Ronaldo. "I really want to play. I have been training hard, but a game is a different matter." The 31-year-old Brazilian striker suffered what looked like a minor injury on 31 July, but a series of complications since have kept him out for nearly four months.

Roma 24.11 : Captain Francesco Totti suffered a recurrence of the foot problem that has sidelined him for the last month. "This morning Francesco arrived with the intention of training but he felt pain as soon as he put on his boot, so did not train at all and will not play against Genoa," Roma coach Luciano Spalletti said. "I don't know when he will be able to play." He will definitely miss Saturday's Serie A game at Genoa and it is highly unlikely that Totti will be available for the Champions League Group F match in Kiev.

SPAIN

game, against Espanyol on Saturday, due to a leg injury. The France striker also sat out Tuesday's 2-2 UEFA Champions League draw at Lyon, while Brazilian playmaker Ronaldinho started from the bench for the first time since his arrival in 2003. Striker Samuel Eto'o and midfielder Edmilson returned to training this week after long layoffs following surgery, but neither is likely to return against Espanyol.

Celtic 29.11 : Defender John Kennedy faces three months on the sidelines with a knee injury. The centre-back was carried off the field 42 minutes into Wednesday's 2-1 UEFA Champions League home win against Shakhtar Donetsk. Tests revealed a damaged cartilage and ligament in his left knee. Kennedy, 24, missed the entire 2004/05 and 2005/06 campaigns because of a serious injury to the same kne.

Villarreal 27.11 : Villarreal have signed a pre-contract agreement to allow Argentinean international midfielder Juan Roman Riquelme to rejoin Boca Juniors when the transfer window opens. This deal should end the 29-year-old's five-year spell in Spanish football. Riquelme spent the final six months of last season on loan at Boca Juniors having fallen out with coach Manuel Pellegrini.

Espanyol 27.11 : Espanyol will be without midfielder Ivan de la Pena for Saturday's Primera Division match against Barcelona. He will miss the city derby after picking up the right quadriceps injury in Sunday's 2-1 win at Osasuna. De la Pena has only featured four times for Espanyol this season, with a separate knee injury also limiting his play.

Barcelona 26.11 : Thierry Henry has been left out of Barcelona's squad for the UEFA Champions League match against Lyon. The French striker and Oleguer Presas both missed Sunday's training session and will not make the trip to France. Brazil playmaker Ronaldinho, who was rested in a 3-0 victory against Recreativo Huelva on Saturday, will be available for Tuesday's match.

25.11 : Villarreal missed a chance to move to the top of the Primera Division for the first time in their history, settling for a 1-1 draw with Almeria. So, Villarreal stay second with 28 points, one behing league-leading Real Madrid, who drew 1-1 with Murcia. Barcelona are third with 27 points after their 3-0 win over Recreativo Huelva, while Espanyol moved into fourth with 25 points after beating Osasuna 2-1.

FRANCE

League visit of Barcelona after tests revealed that he had sustained an injury to his right thigh. The 19-year-old left the field in the 47th minute of Lyon's 2-0 win at Rennes on Saturday after receiving a kick on the leg from Bruno Cheyrou. "I feel like I will be OK but I await the green light from the doctor," said Benzema, who is the French league's top scorer with eleven goals in 15 appearances this season.

25.11 : Juninho and Hatem Ben Arfa scored first-half goals Saturday, and Lyon won 2-0 at Rennes in the French league to stay three points ahead of Nancy. The six-time defending champion have 34 points, and Nancy have 31 after beating Lille 2-0 on goals from Sebastien Puygrenier and Jonathan Brison. Bordeaux remain third despite a crushing 5-0 defeat at Caen.

Lilian Laslandes and Bakary Kone each scored Sunday to help Nice beat Paris Saint-Germain 2-1. Nice improved to 23 points after 15 rounds, while PSG dropped into the relegation zone. Auxerre managed a morale-boosting 3-0 victory against surprise outfit Le Mans. Mamamdou Niang scored twice to lead Marseille to a 3-1 home win over last-place Metz.

Lyon 24.11 : Goalkeeper Gregory Coupet returned to returned to training yesterday. The 34-year-old ruptured a cruciate ligament just two days before the start of the Ligue 1 campaign three-and-a-half months ago, and is eyeing a return before the end of the Champions League group stage. "We did not push him too hard in his session but seeing him back is a boost for us," said coach Alain Perrin, who may be able to call on the France international for the away match against Rangers on 12 December.

GERMANY

Stuttgart 29.11 : Defender Andreas Beck will not play until after the winter break after damaging ligaments in his right knee. The 20-year-old was hurt during Stuttgart's 3-2 victory over Scottish side Rangers in on Tuesday. Beck has played five games in the Bundesliga and twice in the UEFA Champions League this season.

Bayer L. 29.11 : Chilean defender Arturo Vidal may be out of action for several weeks after tearing ligaments in his left ankle in training. The 20-year-old has played in eleven Bundesliga games for Bayer Leverkusen this season. He has also played in four UEFA Cup matches, and coach Michael Skibbe hopes Vidal will be available again for their meeting with Sparta Prague.

Bayern 25.11 : Martin Demichelis, Lukas Podolski and Daniel Van Buyten are listed as questionable for Thursday's UEFA Cup match with Braga. Argentinean defender Demichelis returned from international duty with a bruised calf and although he was in the side that beat Wolfsburg 2-1, he sat out training on Sunday after the injury flared up. Belgian defender Van Buyten and Germany striler Podolski also missed out after picking up toe injuries.

25.11 : The former Bayern coach Felix Magath left Munich without a point as his Wolfsburg were beaten 2-1 by the Bundesliga leaders. Franck Ribery scored one goal and set up another and Bayern snapped a three-game winless streak to stay a point ahead of Werder Bremen and Hamburger. Croatian striker Ivan Klasnic, whose career seemed to be over after twice undergoing liver transplants, played for Werder in a 2-0 winner against Energie Cottbus, his first Bundesliga game since December 17, 2006.

Hamburger shook off the news last week that coach Huub Stevens will leave the team and beat Hansa Rostock 2-0 in the Bundesliga. They continued a fine run that has seen them go unbeaten in all competitions after a reverse on September 15 against Eintracht Frankfurt, winning eleven out of their 13 games played since. Hamburg's 10 goals allowed this season is second only to Bayern's eight. Defending champions Stuttgart won their fourth straight 4-1 against Eintracht Frankfurt.

Dortmund 25.11 : Defender Philipp Degen will undergo surgery after damaging ligaments in his left ankle during Switzerland's 1-0 friendly defeat by Nigeria last Tuesday. Details were not immediately available and it's not yet known how long the 24-year-old will be sidelined. Degen has played eight Bundesliga games for Dortmund this season.

Werder 24.11 : Werder Bremen has suspended striker Boubacar Sanogo and midfielder Carlos Alberto after the two clashed in practice. Neither will be in Werder's roster for Saturday's Bundesliga match at Energie Cottbus. Sanogo threw a couple of punches at Alberto after accusing the Brazilian of intentionally kicking his tender left ankle during practice Thursday. Sanogo is just coming back after the injury. Both players may also be fined, the club said.

Schalke 23.11 : Forward Kevin Kuranyi should be fit to face Valencia in the UEFA Champions League next week. Kuranyi is also in contention for Saturday's Bundesliga game at Hannover after spending almost three weeks on the sidelines with a torn thigh muscle. Midfielders Carlos Grossmuller and Jermaine Jones are both doubtful after sitting out Wednesday's training due to various injuries.

WEEKEND FOOTBALL NEWS

2007-11-30T21:08:00.000+01:00

English Premier League : Manchester City : 30.11.07

Manchester City without key player

Midfielder Elano will miss Manchester City's trip to Wigan Athletic on Saturday after picking up a hamstring injury in training. The 26-year-old Brazilian international, a key player of the club's success this season, has scored five goals since arriving from Shakhtar Donetsk in August for a €12m fee. Elano joins Darius Vassell on the sidelines, after the striker was ruled out for two weeks with a knee injury

Spanish Primera Liga : Barcelona : 30.11.07
Henry out, Ronaldinho could again be on bench

Thierry Henry will miss his second straight Primera Division game, against Espanyol on Saturday, due to a leg injury. The France striker also sat out Tuesday's 2-2 UEFA Champions League draw at Lyon, while Brazilian playmaker Ronaldinho started from the bench for the first time since his arrival in 2003. Striker Samuel Eto'o and midfielder Edmilson returned to training this week after long layoffs following surgery, but neither is likely to return against Espanyol.

English Premier League : Middlesbrough : 29.11.07

Double injury blow for Middlesbrough

Middlesbrough have received a double injury blow with Mido likely to be out until the New Year and Mark Schwarzer set to miss Saturday's match at Reading. Australian goalkeeper Schwarzer, an ever-present this season, has damaged a thumb while Egyptian striker Mido faces a prolonged spell on the sidelines with a persistent groin injury. Mido has only played in five Premier League games since joining from Tottenham Hotspur in August.

English Premier League : Portsmouth : 29.11.07

Portsmouth manager Redknapp arrested

Portsmouth manager Harry Redknapp and chief executive Peter Storrie were among five people arrested on Wednesday by police investigating corruption in English football. Redknapp, who is being linked to the vacant role as England coach, was questioned at a police station and later released. Redknapp returned to the club's training ground Thursday and insisted that he had done nothing wrong. The others were former Portsmouth chairman Milan Mandaric, now in charge at Championship side Leicester City, former Portsmouth player Amdy Faye and his agent, Willie McKay.

Scottish Premier League : Rangers : 29.11.07

Beasley misses several weeks

DaMarcus Beasley could be sidelined for several weeks after damaging a knee ligament on Tuesday. The American midfielder was hut in a collision with Stuttgart goalkeeper Raphael Schaefer during Rangers' 3-2 UEFA Champions League loss. Beasley's injury is a huge blow for Rangers, who play six domestic matches in December.

English Premier League : Birmingham : 28.11.07

McLeish quits Scotland to take Birmingham job

Alex McLeish has stepped down as Scotland's national team coach with immediate effect after only 10 months, clearing the way for him to become the manager of English Premier League club Birmingham. The 48-year-old took the team to within one win of a place at EURO 2008, missing out with a 2-1 home defeat by Italy in their final game City. McLeish has been linked with the vacant manager's post at Birmingham following the departure of Steve Bruce, who quit to take over at Wigan last week.

WEEKEND GOALS

2007-11-26T13:37:00.000+01:00

ENJOY, ESPECIALLY VARELA'S GOAL (RC MALLORCA)

DAILY FOOTBALL NEWS

2007-11-26T11:21:00.000+01:00

ENGLAND PREMIERLEAGUE

Arsenal's Toure: Gallas as good as Adams, Vieira. Arsenal defender Kolo Toure says captain William Gallas stands up well alongside great Gunners leaders such as Tony Adams and Patrick Vieira.
Liverpool boss Benitez facing December axe.
Man Utd's Nani keen to duck Ronaldo comparison.
Newcastle owner Ashley contacts Mourinho, Jol.
Derby set to sack Davies.

SPAIN PRIMERA DIVISION

Real Madrid management split over Guti fine. Real Madrid management are split over action to take against Guti for his dismissal in Saturday's 1-1 draw at Real Murcia. Guti's sending off left Real president Ramon Calderon and sports director Pedja Mijatovic fuming and both powerbrokers want the midfielder fined, says El Mundo Deportivo.
However, just as he stood up for Robinho, coach Bernd Schuster is insisting Guti be left alone. Last week, Schuster claimed "success" after choosing not to fine Robinho after he returned late from international duty with Brazil earlier this season
Edmilson tells Barcelona pals: I regret nothing.
Diego advisor: He couldn't turn down Real Madrid.
Barcelona coach Rijkaard: I want Ronaldinho to regain football joy.
Real Madrid's Guti: I'm tired of getting kicked.

ITALY SERIE A

AC Milan president Berlusconi: I want Barcelona's Zambrotta.AC Milan president Silvio Berlusconi admits they're chasing Barcelona fullback Gianluca Zambrotta. "I've asked for Zambrotta," said Berlusconi. "But I haven't forgotten that we also have Marek Jankulovski, who is a great attacking fullback."The Milan powerbroker also remarked: "I highly admire Dario Simic. I hope he stays with us."
Del Piero plays down spat with Juventus pal Palladino.
Montero backs Juventus push for Fenerbahce's Lugano.
Fenerbahce coach Zico: I'd take Inter Milan's Adriano.
AC Milan's Ronaldo hits back at Inter coach Mancini.

GERMANY BUNDESLIGA

Hamburg moved back to within a point of leaders Bayern Munich with victory over Hansa Rostock.
Karlsruhe maintain form.
Bayern rubbish Hitzfeld report.
Hoeness threatens to quit.
Ismael bitter towards Hitzfeld.
Bayern reject Rafa rumours.
Van Buyten exit talk quashed.
Rafa rubbishes Bayern talk.
Stevens lands PSV job.
Lahm in Barca link.

FRANCE LIGUE 1

Auxerre climbed out of the relegation zone with a 3-0 victory over high-flying Le Mans.
Lyon in two minds over Baros.
Le Havre insistent over star.
Baros linked with England move.
Baros set for Lyon exit.
Koller: England move has gone.
Benzema not keen on move.

HOLLAND EREDIVISIE

Ajax returned to the top of the Eredivisie with a 4-1 win over Vitesse Arnhem, while Feyenoord lost to FC Groningen.
Stevens lands PSV job.
Heerenveen hope to keep Alves.
Elano hopes for Alves deal.
Stevens to shun PSV.
NEC hammer Heracles

Drama at the Draw

2007-11-26T11:18:00.000+01:00

A total of 170 teams discovered the hurdles they must overcome to reach the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa ™ today when the Preliminary Draw took place in Durban. It proved to be a memorable ceremony, decorated by the presence of some iconic figures from within the sport and providing a foretaste of the magical tournament that South Africa promises to deliver.

FIFA General Secretary Jerome Valcke conducted proceedings as former players, association presidents, celebrities from across the globe and the world's football press looked on in earnest to see which teams Draw Assistants George Weah, Ali Daei, Marcel Desailly, Kasey Keller, Kaizer Motaung, Abedi Pele, Doreen Nabwire, Jomo Sono, Lucas Radebe and Christian Karembeu guided into the respective qualifying pools.

Some of the national coaches present at the International Convention Centre will know their teams must negotiate testing groups in order to progress to the 19th edition of the FIFA World Cup. Among them are Croatia, England and Ukraine, who will compete against one another in the European Zone's Group 6, and Group 1 rivals Portugal, Sweden and Denmark. Interestingly, the Swedes and the Danes have locked horns 100 times in senior internationals but never in a FIFA World Cup qualifier.

Bulgaria and Republic of Ireland will hope to provide reigning world champions Italy with a serious challenge, while Germany 2006 runners-up France will take on Romania and Serbia in their section.

There were gasps from the audience when the AFC Zone pitted Australia, who narrowly missed out on a quarter-final place at the 2006 FIFA World Cup, against both Iraq, the reigning Asian champions, and China PR, who participated in the 2002 finals. Qatar, who have played Iraq five times in FIFA World Cup qualifiers (with two wins apiece and one draw), completed the pool, from which two teams will advance to the concluding stage of Asian qualifying.

For the hosts, the highlight came when the African qualifying groups were drawn. South Africa, whose place at the tournament is already assured, will nonetheless compete in the preliminaries, which will also serve as qualifiers to the CAF Africa Cup of Nations in 2010. There they will meet no less a power than Nigeria in Group 4, while Senegal and Algeria will face each other in an intriguing-looking Group 6.

Of the heavyweights in the CONCACAF region, Canada were handed the stiffest Stage 2 challenge in the form of St Vincent and the Grenadines, whom they have never played but who impressed during the qualifying rounds for the 2002 finals. Perhaps the most intriguing development was how the Stage 4 groups will appear if the favourites avoid upsets. Indeed, Mexico, Canada, Jamaica and Honduras could do battle for two places in the deciding phase, while USA, Trinidad and Tobago, Cuba and Guatemala may have to do the same.

Perfect prelude
The meetings between the aforementioned sides are just some of the many fascinating duels thrown up by the Preliminary Draw. In the Asian Zone, Korea Republic and Korea DPR will clash, with the latter looking to reverse two unanswered losses to their neighbours in FIFA World Cup preliminaries. Kuwait will also be out to upset a trend: in six qualifiers for the competition against Iran they have failed to win.

Over in Europe, Czech Republic and Slovakia, the two sides that formerly made up two-time FIFA World Cup finalists Czechoslovakia, will face off, and memories are bound to resurface when Scotland take on Netherlands, whom they beat 3-2 in a memorable match at Argentina 1978.

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