Month: September 2024

12Sep By Silver Emmanuel2 Comments

NEWS

Lacklustre Brazil slump to 1-0 defeat in Paraguay

Brazil slumped to a fourth defeat in their last five World Cup qualifiers on Tuesday after a first-half goal by Diego Gomez gave Paraguay a 1-0 win in Asuncion. Five-times world champions Brazil, who scraped a 1-0 home win over Ecuador on Friday, are fifth in South American qualifying for the 2026 World Cup with 10 points, ahead of Venezuela on goal difference. The top six qualify directly for the World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada, with the seventh place offering passage via further rounds of qualifiers. Manager Dorival Jr, who took over from Tite after Brazil’s quarter- final exit at the 2022 World Cup, looked forlorn on the sidelines as his side were comprehensively outplayed and fortunate not to lose by more. Brazil failed to record a shot on target in the ...

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11Sep By Silver EmmanuelNo Comments

NEWS

Cristiano Ronaldo says Erik Ten Hag’s attitude too negative for Manchester United

Cristiano Ronaldo says Erik ten Hag's attitude is too negative, urging the Manchester United manager to target the Premier League title even though the club need to "rebuild from the bottom". The Portugal star, who now plays for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, fell out with Ten Hag before his second spell at Old Trafford ended late in 2022. Ronaldo believes his former club needs sweeping changes but that Ten Hag should not rule out winning major trophies in the meantime. The Dutchman has said he is "quite confident" of claiming more silverware this campaign after lifting the League Cup and FA Cup over the past two seasons. But he said in July his team are a "long way away" from being ready to win the Premier League, which they have not won since Alex Ferguson's final season in char...

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11Sep By Silver Emmanuel2 Comments

PREMIER LEAGUE

Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez banned from driving for six months

Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez has been banned from driving after being found guilty of a motoring offence.The Argentina international was fined £3,020 and banned from driving for six months after being found guilty on two charges of failing to identify the driver of a Porsche Cayenne. A driver of the car was allegedly caught speeding on Carmarthen Road, Swansea on December 20, 2023, by South Wales Police and running a red light on Church Street, Llanelli on November 28 last year by Dyfed-Powys Police.It was not proven that Fernandez was the driver of the vehicle on either occasion. Both police forces wrote to the 23-year-old, as the vehicle's registered owner, but he did not respond to requests for information. Fernandez did not appear before Llanelli Magistrates' Court on Wed...

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11Sep By Silver Emmanuel1 Comment

LALIGA

Bayern confident of keeping Arsenal and Man City target

Bayern Munich are confident Jamal Musiala will soon sign a new contract with the club. The German international has entered the final two years of his deal with the German giants and has recently been linked with a host of top European sides, including Manchester City and Arsenal. Born in Stuttgart, Musiala joined Bayern’s academy from Chelsea in 2020 after a year with Southampton, having moved to England at the age of seven. He has since established himself as one of Europe’s leading players, finishing second to Jude Bellingham for last year’s Kopa Trophy, which is presented to the best player in the world under the age of 21. Musiala also proved one of the stars of the Germany side at this summer’s Euro 2024 and shared the Golden Boot award alongside club teammate Harry Kane, Dani Ol...

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11Sep By Silver Emmanuel1 Comment

PREMIER LEAGUE

Man City injury update: Ake and Foden latest news and return dates

Manchester City resume their Premier League campaign at home to Brentford on Saturday. Pep Guardiola’s side have won their opening three games of the season and will be strong favourites to extend that to four this weekend. City, who have something of a habit of starting the season relatively slowly, do not appear to have skipped a beat over the course of the summer break. Erling Haaland is in fine fettle and many of their stars involved at Euro 2024 are yet to hit their straps, which is a terrifying prospect for their title rivals. Still, the fixtures will soon pile up thick and fast, so Guardiola will no doubt need his whole squad available. With that in mind, here’s a look at the latest Manchester City injuries…. Nathan Ake Nathan Ake was forced off during the clash between the Ne...

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11Sep By Silver Emmanuel2 Comments

TRANSFERS

Fabrizio Romano issues Liverpool transfer update about 23-year-old attacker

Liverpool have been linked with a move for Real Madrid attacker Rodrygo for a long time. Citing unnamed reports in Spain, TEAMtalk has reported that the Premier League giants are interested in a move for the Brazilian attacker. It was widely believed that Rodrygo will become a victim at Santiago Bernabeu after the arrivals of Kylian Mbappe and Endrick over the summer. However, nothing of that sort has happened and the 23-year-old has featured in all the La Liga matches this season, scoring one goal and assisting another for the Spanish champions. Transfer news specialist Fabrizio Romano has now confirmed that the Brazilian has not intention of leaving Los Blancos. Romano mentioned on his Youtube channel that Rodrygo is fully committed to Real Madrid and he wants to continue representi...

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11Sep By Silver Emmanuel1 Comment

LALIGA

Ferland Mendy, Jesus Vallejo available to play vs Real Sociedad

Real Madrid defenders Ferland Mendy and Jesus Vallejo are set to be available to feature in the game against Real Sociedad on Saturday, according to reports from all over Spain. There have been a lot of players in the last couple of weeks who’ve got injured, especially in defense where, for a while, Antonio Rudiger was the only central defender who was fit — even Castilla’s Jacobo Ramon is currently injured. Vallejo is back, though, and it will be good to have another centre-back in the squad list. However, it is a different conversation about whether Vallejo will actually get the nod, because we have seen Carlo Ancelotti go for Dani Carvajal as makeshift centre-backs in the past. In other news, Jude Bellingham, Aurelien Tchouameni and Eder Militao are back in training, but they trained...

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11Sep By Silver Emmanuel1 Comment

LALIGA

Deco explains why Barca signed Dani Olmo and not Nico

Barcelona sporting director Deco has revealed why the club decided to buy Dani Olmo rather than Nico Williams in the summer transfer window. The Catalans were linked with Williams all summer. Joan Laporta said the club could afford to sign the Athletic star, but Barca opted to splash out on Olmo instead. Here’s what Deco’s said in an interview with Barca One when asked about the transfers. “A high-level winger was needed. We have Raphinha, Ferran, the return of Ansu who was very good in pre-season but had a foot injury, we have Lamine ... We have players who can play as wingers like Fermín or Dani Olmo . “We were clear that to bring in a player he had to be of a very high level. But in the end, signing Dani Olmo gave you more options. It’s not that we haven’t spoken with clubs and play...

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11Sep By Silver EmmanuelNo Comments

NEWS

Saudi Arabia’s 10 men fight back to beat China in World Cup qualifying

China face a struggle to qualify for the 2026 World Cup as they followed their 7-0 drubbing in Japan last week with a 2-1 defeat against 10-man Saudi Arabia on Tuesday. China went ahead in the 14th minute in Dalian through an Ali Lajami own goal but failed to take advantage of Saudi midfielder Mohamed Kanno being red-carded a few minutes later. Hassan Kadish equalised with a header from a corner before half-time and repeated the feat in the last minute of the 90 to spark wild celebrations from the visitors. China, who had registered just one shot in their match with Japan, struggled to carve out chances despite their numerical advantage. They paid the price when the Saudis, managed by former Manchester City and Italy coach Roberto Mancini, equalised through Kadish before half-time. ...

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11Sep By Silver Emmanuel1 Comment

NEWS

UEFA NATIONS LGE: Captain Kane celebrates 100th England cap with both goals against Finland

Harry Kane struck his 67th and 68th international goals to celebrate having become the 10th man to make 100 national team appearances for England as they defeated Finland 2-0 in their UEFA Nations League tie at Wembley. England started on the front foot but their 31-year-old captain was frustrated in a scoreless first half in pursuit of the goal to add to the golden cap presented to him before kickoff. The last centurion, almost 10 years ago, was Wayne Rooney who had also marked the occasion with a goal. Kane finally broke through decisively twice after the interval. His goals were his 26th and 27th in 35 England appearances at Wembley adding up go 11 in his last eight matches at the national stadium. Victory was no more than England deserved after dominating in front of a 70,221 crowd; ...

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11Sep By Silver EmmanuelNo Comments

NEWS

Pochettino named new boss of US with 2026 World Cup hosting in mind

Former Tottenham and Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino has been named as the new manager of the United States men’s team. The Argentine replaces Gregg Berhalter, who was sacked in July following the USA’s group-stage elimination from the Copa America. The United States will co-host the 2026 World Cup along with Canada and Mexico. They are ranked 16th in the world by Fifa, one place below Euro 2024 quarter-finalists Switzerland. Pochettino’s appointment means the US men’s and women’s teams are both now managed by former Chelsea bosses, after Emma Hayes took charge of the women’s team earlier this year. Pochettino, 52, said it was an opportunity “I couldn’t pass up”. “The decision to join US Soccer wasn’t just about football for me; it’s about the journey that this team and this country...

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11Sep By Silver Emmanuel1 Comment

NEWS

Colombia avenge Copa América loss with victory over Argentina

World champions Argentina suffered their second defeat in CONMEBOL qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup with a James Rodríguez penalty condemning them to a 2-1 loss to Colombia on Tuesday. The victory was sweet revenge for a Colombia team who had lost to Argentina in July's final of the Copa América. Colombia, backed by a passionate crowd at the Metropolitano Stadium, took the lead in the 25th minute when, from a short corner, Rodríguez chipped a cross to the back post where Yerson Mosquera rose to head home. With Rodríguez prompting in midfield and Luis Díaz a threat with his pace down the flanks, Colombia were well on top in the opening half against a sluggish Argentina, without the injured Lionel Messi. But three minutes after the interval, the visitors drew level when a misplaced pass...

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10Sep By Silver Emmanuel1 Comment

PREMIER LEAGUE

Ilkay Gundogan has ‘told’ Pep Guardiola who Man City should sign out of Jamal Musiala and Florian Wirtz

Ilkay Gundogan has already made his feelings clear on who Manchester City should sign out of Jamal Musiala and Florian Wirtz. Over the last couple of seasons, youngsters Musiala and Wirtz have developed into two of the biggest talents in world football. Musiala has impressed playing for Bayern Munich and has since nailed down a regular starting role for Germany. Meanwhile, Wirtz played a big role in Bayer Leverkusen’s journey to becoming Bundesliga champions last season. Both players have also been linked with Premier League clubs such as City, Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester United. Speaking during EURO 2024, Gundogan, who made a return to City last month, was full of praise for Musiala. As reported by Hayters, the midfielder said: “For me, he’s incredible. “It’s such a joy to pl...

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10Sep By Silver Emmanuel1 Comment

Ligue 1

Lazio Prioritize Crystal Palace, PSG Summer Target for January Move, Report Says

Olympique Lyonnais’ Rayan Cherki was the center of transfer rumors all summer, but he ended up staying put. Now, he might even sign a new contract with Lyon, as his current deal runs until 2025. According to The Athletic’s Peter Rutzler, Fulham made a bid for the young attacking midfielder, offering an initial £12 million plus bonuses. Rutzler also mentioned that Crystal Palace remains interested, though they haven’t made a formal offer yet. Meanwhile, L’Equipe’s Loïc Tanzi revealed that PSG had been expected to sign Cherki during the summer transfer window. The latest information on the 20-year-old after failing to make a move this summer is that there’s a new suitor for him. According to Tuttosport (h/t Le10Sport), Lazio has made the French attacking midfielder their top target for ...

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10Sep By Silver Emmanuel1 Comment

LALIGA

Real Madrid star in push for start vs Sociedad with injury-time winner on international stage

A member of the attacking ranks at La Liga giants Real Madrid on Monday night staked his latest claim for a starting berth in Carlo Ancelotti’s XI. As much came by way of his exploits on the international front. The player in question? Brahim Díaz. Versatile attacker Brahim was back in action with Morocco a short time ago. After being afforded a rest from the off in the country’s AFCON qualifying meeting with Lesotho, the 24-year-old was introduced to the fray during the 2nd-half, with the game on a knife-edge. And, when all was said and done, Brahim went on to prove himself match-winner once more. Picking up the ball on the edge of the Lesotho penalty area, the former AC Milan man left a pair of defenders for dead, before picking out the bottom corner with a pinpoint finish. This p...

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10Sep By Silver EmmanuelNo Comments

PREMIER LEAGUE

Bayern Munich among top clubs eyeing William Saliba

William Saliba has, in recent games, captured the footballing world’s attention with his impressive skills at the defensive line for both Arsenal FC and the France national team. He is consistently praised for his talents as a center back, and is now on the radar of top clubs across Europe. One of the clubs aiming to get Saliba’s signature is Bayern Munich. The German Rekordmeister recently lost some incredible players in Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui, and could be looking to replace the talent at the back line. However, Bayern will reportedly face some competition from other top clubs, namely Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain. Reported by CaughtOffside, the Spanish and French giants are also looking to sign William Saliba for a hefty price tag of €120 million at least....

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10Sep By Silver Emmanuel1 Comment

NEWS

Bastoni: ‘Italy feel strong’ after Nations League success

Alessandro Bastoni is happy to take on the mantle of the Italy defence and confirms they ‘feel strong’ after back-to-back Nations League victories. The Azzurri are flying in the Nations League, topping Group A2 with six points after their 3-1 win in France and 2-1 victory over Israel. Les Bleus beat Belgium 2-0 this evening, so they go into joint second place on three points apiece. “It was very important to follow up the win over France, which boosted our confidence so much and made us feel strong,” Bastoni told RAI Sport. “We want to continue like this and leave the embarrassment of the Euros behind us.” The Azzurri were determined to prove what they can do after a disastrous European Championship result, crashing out in the Round of 16 against Switzerland with a soulless performanc...

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10Sep By Silver Emmanuel1 Comment

TRANSFERS

Liverpool are considering a move to sign Bryan Mbeumo

Even though the summer transfer window for the 2024-25 season just closed, speculation about next summer’s signings is already heating up. Liverpool are reportedly laying the groundwork for a significant acquisition, with Brentford winger Bryan Mbeumo emerging as a key target. With Mohamed Salah’s contract set to expire in less than a year, Liverpool may need to prepare for a potential departure. If Salah opts not to renew his contract, the Reds will face the challenge of finding a suitable replacement. Mbeumo, who is valued at around £50 million, has been identified as a potential candidate. According to Give Me Sport, Liverpool are considering an early move for Mbeumo, but they will face competition from clubs like Newcastle United and Arsenal. Earlier in the summer, L’Equipe rep...

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10Sep By Silver Emmanuel3 Comments

PREMIER LEAGUE

Arsenal star Martin Odegaard suffers injury before Tottenham clash

Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard has been one of the best players in the Premier League since joining the Gunners from Real Madrid, spreading his wings as one of world football’s best modern playmakers under coach Mikel Arteta. With Odegaard pulling the strings, Arsenal are perennial Premier League title contenders and one step closer towards returning to a Champions League Final, with the 25-year-old coming off a 10-assist season after notching 15 goals in 2022/23. Unfortunately for Arsenal, it looks like they may have to face arch rivals Tottenham in the North London derby this coming Sunday without the services of their superstar midfielder. Odegaard went down with a left ankle injury during the September international “break”, getting caught with Austria star playmaker Christoph Baum...

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10Sep By Silver Emmanuel2 Comments

NEWS

France and Italy cruise to win in Nations League as Norway’s Haaland scores decisive goal

Les Bleus breathed a sigh of relief with their 2-0 win against Belgium after a loss last week. Meanwhile Italy are on a winning streak with a victory over Israel. Italy kept up their perfect start to the UEFA Nations League on Monday, while France got the better of Belgium and Erling Haaland struck a late winner for Norway against Austria. The Italians built on an impressive win away in France at the weekend as they beat Israel 2-1 in a game played on neutral territory in Budapest due to the security situation in the Middle East. Goals in each half from Davide Frattesi and Moise Kean were enough for Italy to win in a subdued atmosphere at the Bozsik Arena, home of Honved. Luciano Spalletti's team have reacted well to their disastrous European Championship title defence, which ended at...

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