March 2024 – Page 5 – Football Flame

24Mar

By Silver EmmanuelNo Comments

NEWS

Evan Ferguson misses penalty as Ireland hold Belgium to 0-0 draw

Evan Ferguson #9 of Ireland misses a penalty during the Republic of Ireland V Belgium, International friendly match at Aviva Stadium on March 23rd, 2024 in Dublin, Ireland. Evan Ferguson missed from the penalty spot in the 28th minute as Ireland and Belgium played out a stalemate.Brighton striker Evan Ferguson missed a penalty as Ireland held Belgium to a 0-0 stalemate in Dublin on Saturday.The draw means Belgium, fourth in the FIFA world rankings, extended their unbeaten run to 12 matches, a sequence stretching back to the 2022 World Cup.The visitors, without the injured Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku, enjoyed the bulk of possession but Ireland created the better chances, with debutant Sammie Szmodics going close on a number of occasions.The home side, led by interim coach J...

24Mar

By Silver EmmanuelNo Comments

NEWS

Gareth Southgate praises England’s display in defeat by Brazil

Gareth Southgate, Manager of England men's senior team, talks to Jude Bellingham of England during the international friendly match between England and Brazil at Wembley Stadium on March 23, 2024 in London, England. Gareth Southgate insisted he was pleased with England’s performance after defeat to Brazil dampened optimism about the chances of glory at Euro 2024.Brazil left Wembley with a 1-0 victory after Endrick, their 17-year-old star, came off the bench to punish poor defending with his first goal for his country. An injury-hit England had struggled to convince and were caught out after a mistake from the substitute Lewis Dunk.But Southgate, who confirmed that Harry Kane will be unavailable again when England host Belgium on Tuesday, refused to be downhearted. The head...

23Mar

By Silver EmmanuelNo Comments

Ligue 1

“It’s not up to me” – Kylian Mbappe on possibility of delaying arrival at Real Madrid

Kylian MbappeIt’s highly expected that Real Madrid will finally get their hands on Kylian Mbappe this summer. The 24-year-old has already notified Paris Saint-Germain of his intention to leave when his contract expires at the end of the season, which would open the door for Los Blancos to swoop in.It’s been over a month since those reports emerged, but since then, there has been little movement. Personal terms are still being worked on between Mbappe’s camp and Real Madrid, and the player himself has confirmed that there is still no agreement, as per Diario AS.“I haven’t announced anything because I didn’t have anything to announce. If I haven’t, it’s because I don’t have anything to announce. The day I have something to announce, I’ll say it. I’ve never hidden. I’m sorry to disappoint you...

23Mar

By Silver EmmanuelNo Comments

TRANSFERS

Fulham eyeing up a bargain move for Euro 2020 winner this summer

AS Roma player Leonardo Spinazzola during training session at Centro Sportivo Fulvio Bernardini on January 08, 2024 in Rome, Italy.Premier League side Fulham are reportedly keen on the Roma defender Leonardo Spinazzola.According to a report from Fichajes, the 30-year-old Italian defender is on the radar of the London club and they are hoping to sign him on a bargain.Spinazzola will be a free agent in the summer and signing him on a free transfer would represent an excellent bargain for Fulham.The Londoners could lose Antonee Robinson in the summer and Spinazzola could be a quality replacement. The United States international has been linked with top clubs recently and he could move on in the summer.Spinazzola would improve FulhamSpinazzola might be open to a new challenge at this sta...

23Mar

By Silver EmmanuelNo Comments

LALIGA

We have room’… Barcelona president confident about retaining €70m-rated midfield star

Joan Laporta during the UEFA Champions League 2023/24 round of 16 second leg match between FC Barcelona and SSC Napoli at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys on March 12, 2024 in Barcelona, Spain. FC Barcelona President Joan Laporta is pictured at the Joan Gamper training ground in Sant Joan Despi, near Barcelona, on September 2, 2023. Barcelona signed Atletico Madrid forward Joao Felix and Manchester City defender Joao Cancelo on loan until the end of the season.The goal of FC Barcelona remains today to forge a formidable team for the future. La Blaugrana know their future lies in the faith they put in their youth, and that remains their joy. However, the Catalans still need to understand the continuity of many stars.Beyond those who are untouchables from a sporting perspective in the long...

23Mar

By Silver EmmanuelNo Comments

PREMIER LEAGUE

Man United set to step up efforts to sign £43m Brazilian star in summer

Gleison Bremer of Juventus in action during the Serie A TIM match between Juventus and Empoli FC - Serie A TIM at Allianz Stadium on January 27, 2024 in Turin, Italy.Manchester United are looking to improve their defensive options and they have identified Juventus star Gleison Bremer as a potential target.A report from the Mirror claims that Manchester United are now ready to step up their efforts to sign the player and they are preparing an offer of around £43 million for the Brazilian defender.The 27-year-old has a £43 million release clause in his contract and Manchester United do not view that as an excessive sum of money. Bremer has established himself as one of the best defenders in the Italian league and he has the qualities to do well in the Premier League as well.The Brazili...

23Mar

By Silver EmmanuelNo Comments

NEWS

Argentina beats El Salvador 3-0 as Philly prepares for the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Rodrigo Huescas (L) of Mexico fights for the ball with Roman Vega (R) of Argentina during the U-23 international friendly between Mexico and Argentina at Estadio El Encanto on March 22, 2024 in Mazatlan, Mexico.FIFA World Cup champions Argentina beat El Salvador 3-0 on a frigid Friday night at Lincoln Financial Field, in the stadium’s first game after the announcement it will host six games in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.The match was muted by the absence of Argentina’s captain, global superstar and arguably the greatest player of all time Lionel Messi, who had to pull out from the squad after picking up a hamstring injury. Messi’s presence, as it has since his arrival in the U.S. to play for Major League Soccer’s Inter Miami, would have probably ensured a near-full attendance like it di...

23Mar

By Silver EmmanuelNo Comments

Uncategorized

Mbappe wants to represent France in Paris Olympics

Kylian Mbappe of PSG celebrates his first goal during the Ligue 1 Uber Eats match between Montpellier HSC (MHSC) and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) at Stade de la Mosson on March 17, 2024 in Montpellier, France.French captain Kylian Mbappe expressed his willingness to represent his country at the Paris Olympics this summer, although it will be on a collision course with Spanish club Real Madrid which he is estimated to join after his contract with Paris St Germain (PSG) expires in late June. La Liga giant Real, who have been at the forefront of chasing the World Cup winner, emailed the French Football Federation that they will not release their players for the Games, including Aurelien Tchouameni and Eduardo Camavinga whom Mbappe will potentially join. The Olympic fo...

23Mar

By Silver EmmanuelNo Comments

BUNDESLIGA

Bayer Leverkusen star Lukas Hradecky braced for Xabi Alonso departure

Xabi Alonso, Head Coach of Bayer Leverkusen at Europa-Park Stadion on March 17, 2024 in Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany. Xabi Alonso should be allowed to pursue his dream of coaching a top club, insists the goalkeeper helping him to his first league title as a boss.Alonso is wanted by the Reds to succeed Jurgen Klopp in the summer and is also courted by Bayern Munich.Bayern are 10 points behind Alonso’s Bayer Leverkusen side, who have not lost in the league this season.The Spaniard played for both Liverpool and Bayern and the temptation to return is obvious, though he could even opt to lead Leverkusen in the Champions League. Yet Lukas Hradecky, who has made 25 league appearances for Alonso’s men this term, is braced for Alonso’s departure.‘That’s our wish and dream, for him ...

23Mar

By Silver EmmanuelNo Comments

Uncategorized

Kane to miss England clash with Brazil

Thomas Tuchel, Head Coach of FC Bayern München looks on next to his player Harry Kane during a training session ahead of their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 second leg match at Bayern's Trainingsground Säbener Strasse on March 04, 2024 in Munich, Germany. England captain Harry Kane and midfielders Cole Palmer and Jordan Henderson will miss Saturday’s friendly against Brazil and their absence will offer others a chance to make their mark in the run-up to Euro 2024.Bayern Munich striker Kane travelled back to England last weekend to join up with the national team to be treated for an ankle injury he had suffered in a 5-2 win at Darmstadt on Saturday.Manager Gareth Southgate said: “No Harry Kane, Jordan Henderson or Cole Palmer tomorrow. I”I would say Cole and Hendo have a bett...

23Mar

By Silver EmmanuelNo Comments

SERIE A

Official: Milan smile as Leao is given permission to leave Portugal camp early

Rafael Leao of Portugal during the international friendly match between Portugal and Sweden on March 21, 2024 in Guimaraes, Portugal.Rafael Leao played 45 minutes for Portugal in their 5-2 win against Sweden last night and he was one of the best players on the pitch. Along with a few other stars of the team, however, it has been agreed that he will leave the international duties. As confirmed by Sky Italia on X, Portugal manager Roberto Martinez has left the likes of Nelson Semedo, Bernardo Silva, Ruben Dias, Joao Palhinha, Toti Gomes, Bruno Fernandes, Goncalo Ramos and Leao out of the squad for next week’s friendly against Slovenia.There are no injuries behind this decision. Instead, Martinez wants to give other players the chance while also allowing the stars to rest, ahead of...

23Mar

By Silver EmmanuelNo Comments

SERIE A

Report: Juventus want to extend Carlos Alcaraz’s loan for another season

Carlos Alcaraz of Juventus during the Serie A TIM match between SSC Napoli and Juventus - Serie A TIM at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on March 03, 2024 in Naples, Italy.The biggest thing when Juventus announced the Carlos Alcaraz loan deal was the price that they could pay Southampton to make it a permanent one come the summertime. The second most notable thing involving the Alcaraz loan deal was just how little time — basically five months — Juve director Cristiano Giuntoli and co. would have to decide to make said deal permanent.Well, there may be a way around all of that.According to Marco Guidi of La Gazzetta dello Sport, Giuntoli — who has long been an admirer of Alcaraz dating back to before he signed with Southampton in January 2023 — is aiming to try and extend the loan...

22Mar

By Silver EmmanuelNo Comments

PREMIER LEAGUE

Aston Villa player ratings for 2023/24 season so far: Three score 7/10 but three 5s

Aston Villa Manager Unai Emery during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Aston Villa at London Stadium on March 17, 2024 in London, England.Aston Villa have had a campaign that only a few would have imagined as they battle for Champions League football. Unai Emery brought European football back to Villa Park this season after going on a good run when he replaced Steven Gerrard in 2022. The Villains are in the quarter-finals of the Europa Conference League and currently hold a place in the Premier League’s top four. They have Spurs looking over their shoulder with a three-point gap between them and the North London side have a game in hand but it's a good position to be in. Man United meanwhile are nine points behind in sixth and also have an extra game to play.&...

22Mar

By Silver EmmanuelNo Comments

LALIGA

Barcelona now working towards retaining their wondrous talents

Xavi Hernandez head coach of FC Barcelona giving instructions to Fermin Lopez of FC Barcelona the LaLiga EA Sports match between Atletico Madrid and FC Barcelona at Civitas Metropolitano Stadium on March 17, 2024 in Madrid, Spain. The waves of La Masia continue to help FC Barcelona prosper even in their most dire moments. This ongoing campaign is no different, as the aid of younglings arrived when it was needed most desperately. Ultimately, the Catalans have remained stronger than they believed themselves to be capable of being.This ‘Baby’ Barcelona under the tutelage of Xavi Hernandez is a unique kind of storm. The likes of Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubarsi, Hector Fort, and Marc Guiu, have established themselves as proper candidates to take on the torch that will one day be passed on ...

22Mar

By Silver EmmanuelNo Comments

NEWS

European Championship: Germany’s preparations dealt blow with Manuel Neuer’s thigh injury

National team, before the international match against France, training, DFB Campus. National goalkeepers Marc-André ter Stegen (l) and Manuel Neuer take part in training. Germany’s preparations for the European Championship were dealt a blow with Manuel Neuer’s thigh injury ahead of the goalkeeper’s planned comeback.Germany’s World Cup captain had been due to return to the national team after breaking his leg in a skiing accident, but he sustained a muscle fiber tear in his left adductor during training Wednesday morning, the German football federation said.It said the 37-year-old Neuer will miss Germany’s upcoming friendlies against France and the Netherlands but didn’t give any further indication of how long he will miss. Neuer had already left the squad. Germany play France in Lyon...

22Mar

By Silver EmmanuelNo Comments

PREMIER LEAGUE

Leicester face points deduction after alleged breaches of Psr rules

Leicester City's Italian head coach Enzo Maresca gestures on the touchline during the English FA Cup Quarter Final football match between Chelsea and Leicester City at Stamford Bridge in London on March 17, 2024. It feels like a chilling domino effect, with Everton being the first to fall, followed by Nottingham Forest, and now Leicester City finding themselves in a similar predicament. The former English champions have been hit with charges by the Premier League, accusing them of breaching profitability and sustainability rules (PSR) over the past three seasons in the top flight. If found guilty, the club could potentially face the harsh punishment of a points deduction. In a statement, Leicester said they were "extremely disappointed at the timing of the ...

22Mar

By Silver EmmanuelNo Comments

PREMIER LEAGUE

Arsenal get heavyweight backing for double Premier League and Champions League glory

Rivaldo of World Legends (R) handles the ball during the FWD Insurance Chinese New Year Cup between World Legends and Hong Kong Legends at Hong Kong Stadium on February 13, 2024 in Hong Kong, China.Brazil icon Rivaldo believes Arsenal have what it takes to complete a stunning double this season and win both the Premier League and the Champions League.Arsenal are currently top of the league, although there is just one point between the Gunners, Liverpool and Manchester City, and they are also among the eight teams left in the Champions League.And with a quarter-final clash against German giants Bayern Munich on the horizon, Rivaldo believes Arsenal have a "strong enough squad to keep competing in the league and in Europe". He told Betfair : "As a player, it's very difficult to focus on one ...

22Mar

By Silver EmmanuelNo Comments

NEWS

Wright scores twice in extra time as U.S. beats Jamaica to reach CONCACAF Nations League final

Haji Wright #14 of the United States celebrates his second goal in extra time during the CONCACAF Nations League Semifinal match against Jamaica at AT&T Stadium on March 21, 2024 in Arlington, Texas. The United States escaped defeat with an own goal in the sixth minute of second-half stoppage time, Haji Wright scored twice in extra time and the Americans rallied past Jamaica 3-1 Thursday night to reach the CONCACAF Nations League final against Mexico or Panama.Greg Leigh scored 30 seconds in for the 57th-ranked Reggae Boyz, and the No. 13 Americans were on the verge of losing their third straight match. Instead, Wright scored in the sixth and 19th minutes of extra time and the U.S. will try to win the Nations League for the third straight time on Sunday.Both of Wright's goals were...

22Mar

By Silver EmmanuelNo Comments

TRANSFERS

Barcelona ‘not envious’ of Real Madrid signing Kylian Mbappe

France's head coach Didier Deschamps (L) shares a laugh with France's forward Kylian Mbappe before a training session as part of the team's preparation for upcoming friendly football matches, in Clairefontaine-en-Yvelines on March 20, 2024. Barcelona president Joan Laporta has stated that his side are "not envious" of Kylian Mbappe's potential transfer to rivals Real Madrid in the summer.With the 25-year-old's contract at Paris Saint-Germain expiring at the conclusion of the season, there have been plenty of rumours surrounding the future of the player.Despite intense speculation, Mbappe has continued to do the business on the pitch during the 2023-24 season, as he looks to guide his side to new heights.Having netted 24 goals and provided five assists in just 24 Ligue 1 matches,...

22Mar

By Silver EmmanuelNo Comments

LALIGA

Real Madrid suffer two season-defining injury setbacks

Thibaut Courtois player of Real Madrid is training at Valdebebas training ground on March 19, 2024 in Madrid, Spain.Real Madrid’s injury list went from bad to worse this week when news broke that both David Alaba and Thibaut Courtois apparently suffered major injury setbacks. Thankfully, it now seems Alaba will be fit sooner or later. Courtois, though, is likely out for the rest of the season.Alaba tore his ACL in his left knee in Real Madrid’s 4-1 La Liga win versus Villarreal last December. It was always a longshot that he would return to the side this season, but now it seems very possible. According to Miguel Ángel Díaz of COPE Radio in Madrid, Alaba’s recovery from his ACL injury has not gone well. The Real Madrid left back reportedly flew to Austria this week to receive sp...