The Glorious of Football

Alessandro Nesta: I'll be back in a month

2009-01-23T16:11:00.003+08:00

Injured AC Milan centre-back Alessandro Nesta returned on Thursday from a two-month stay in Miami to say he hoped to be back playing for the club in a month.

Nesta travelled to Florida in early November to see a specialist about a back problem that has been troubling him since July. The 32-year-old has yet to play for Milan this season and he has been sorely missed in an ageing rearguard that has often been exposed. But now the former Lazio defender is ready to return to training at Milan's Milanello complex.

"I'm going to Milanello to start working and when I'm ready, I'll play," he said upon his return at Milan's Linate airport. "I can't wait to get back but I want to do so in a good condition, at my best. "When? Soon I think, maximum one month but I need to work hard physically, I haven't played for eight months and we'll see how I react physically."

Nesta was part of the Italy squad that won the World Cup in 2006 and has played 78 times for his country. He has won the UEFA Champions League twice with Milan and Serie A once each with Milan and Lazio.

Transfer News : City complete de Jong deal

2009-01-22T16:20:00.002+08:00

Manchester City have signed Dutch midfielder Nigel de Jong from German side Hamburg for an undisclosed fee, the English Premier League side announced on Wednesday

The 24-year-old, capped 29 times by his country, has signed a four-and-a-half year contract with City, now transformed into one of the world's wealthiest sports clubs under the ownership of Abu Dhabi-based Sheikh Mansour.

City, rebuffed on Monday in their bid to sign Brazil's Kaka from AC Milan for a reported 108 million pounds (100 million euros) - a world record deal if it had gone through - have seen two players join this week with de Jong following former West Ham striker Craig Bellamy to Eastlands.

De Jong missed much of the first half of the Bundesliga campaign with a knee injury but recently returned to training. He had been with Hamburg for three years after joining from Ajax.

Transfer News : Spurs sign Palacios

2009-01-22T16:14:00.002+08:00

Tottenham have finally won their battle to wrest highly-rated Honduran midfielder Wilson Palacios away from Wigan after the two clubs agreed a fee believed to be around £14.

Wigan had turned down a £10 million offer earlier this month but manager Steve Bruce had been resigned to losing the 24-year-old in the event of Spurs coming back with a higher bid. Palacios followed Bruce from Birmingham to Wigan last year and has since enhanced his reputation with the Lancashire club establishing itself firmly in the top half of the Premier League table.

A statement on Tottenham's website confirmed: "We are delighted to announce that we have reached agreement for the transfer of Wilson Palacios from Wigan Athletic.

"Personal terms have been agreed and a medical completed, we now await the Honduran international receiving his work permit before completing his registration."

League Cup : Spurs through to Wembley

2009-01-22T16:00:00.000+08:00

Strikers Roman Pavlyuchenko and Jermain Defoe scored deep into extra-time to break Burnley hearts and ensure holders Tottenham Hotspur will face Manchester United in the League Cup final.

With less than three minutes of extra-time left at Turf Moor, the second-tier side were on course to go through to a 1 March meeting at Wembley with world champions United on the away goals rule. At that stage the tie was all square at 4-4 on aggregate, with the Clarets 3-0 ahead in the second leg courtesy of goals from Robbie Blake, Chris McCann and Jay Rodriguez. However, Pavlyuchenko edged Spurs in front overall before Defoe's 120th-minute effort made sure Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp, who won the FA Cup with Portsmouth last season, would be heading back to Wembley after a dramatic 6-4 aggregate success.

Ben Alnwick made his Spurs debut as first-choice goalkeeper with Heurelho Gomes missing for the top-flight strugglers through injury, along with Ledley King, Vedran Corluka and Aaron Lennon. Meanwhile Pavlyuchenko, who has now scored in every round of the competition, was dropped to the bench along with Gareth Bale. The Clarets were themselves weakened through the absence of suspended captain Steven Caldwell and cup-tied striker Steve Thompson, with Wade Elliott and Blake filling in respectively.

Tottenham almost scored first when Jonathan Woodgate - one of just two survivors, along with Didier Zakora, from the Spurs side that beat Chelsea 2-1 in last year's final - headed over from David Bentley's corner. But instead it was Burnley who broke the second-leg deadlock. They were awarded a free-kick for Woodgate's foul on Joey Gudjohnsen and from fully 25 yards out, Blake beat Alnwick at the keeper's near post with a superb curling effort.

Clarets manager Owen Coyle had said beforehand his side would need "to scale Everest and beyond" to reach the final, but now the summit was in sight. Midway through the second half, Tottenham had the chance to draw level in the second leg when Defoe pounced on an error by Clarke Carlisle but Burnley goalkeeper Brian Jensen moved smartly off his line to deny the England striker.

Burnley continued to press forward and in the 73rd minute a cross from Blake was turned in at the far post by McCann. Spurs' advantage was erased with two minutes of normal time left when, after Alnwick fumbled Blake's free-kick, substitute Rodriguez scored. At the end of normal time, Martin Paterson's first-leg goal for Burnley, which had seemed as if it would be a mere footnote, meant the Clarets were still in the tie.

Now, however, they had a position to defend and the character of the match changed with Spurs making the running in the first half of extra-time. But Burnley did not concede and were in sight of a first League Cup final appearance when Pavlyuchenko, who came on for Luka Modric midway through the second half, scored from six yards in the 118th minute. And moments later Defoe grabbed another goal to make sure of an all top-flight encounter with United, 4-3 aggregate winners over Derby County yesterday.

Burnley 3 - 2 Tottenham Hotspur Highlights

League Cup : United reach League Cup final

2009-01-21T20:03:00.003+08:00

Cristiano Ronaldo scored a late penalty to secure Manchester United's place in the English League Cup Final as they survived a late Derby rally to seal a 4-3 aggregate win at Old Trafford.

Tuesday's 4-2 second leg victory was secured when Ronaldo, a second-half substitute for Ryan Giggs, netted from the spot after Carlos Tevez had been felled by former United goalkeeper Roy Carroll in the closing stages. But although United ultimately cruised to the victory, the sight of Anderson being stretchered off at the end of the game took the shine off the result for Sir Alex Ferguson's English, European and FIFA world champions.

United's uncharacteristically poor showing at Pride Park in the first-leg ensured the Championship strugglers arrived at Old Trafford with a 1-0 advantage courtesy of a Kris Commons wonder strike. Few gave Nigel Clough's team any hope of holding onto that lead and booking a place at Wembley for the final on 1 March. But United's youngsters have displayed fallibility in cup competitions in recent seasons, with the likes of Exeter, Southend and Coventry all inflicting embarrassment on Ferguson's team, so Derby had something to cling to. Clough had urged his players to take the game to United after warning that defensive tactics would merely encourage the home team to attack at will and they almost profited from their ambitious approach as early as the sixth minute when Commons went close to scoring again.

The breakthrough goal came in the 16th minute when Portuguese winger Nani, whose future at United has been placed in doubt following reports of a move for Wigan's Ecuadorian midfielder Antonio Valencia, levelled the aggregate scores with a stunning strike from 25 yards. United still needed to get their noses in front in the tie, however, and they were able to do that six minutes later when poor Derby defending allowed John O'Shea to score from 12 yards after he had been teed up by teenage striker Danny Welbeck.

Derby were now faced with a damage limitation exercise, but United continued to pour forward and Ferguson's men looked likely to score at every opportunity. Carroll denied Welbeck from close range before the inevitable third goal arrived in the 34th minute when Tevez headed in Rafael's cross from six yards to claim his ninth goal of the season. It was also Tevez's sixth goal in the League Cup this season, which reflects his increased involvement in this much-maligned competition.

The fans might want him to stay beyond the expiry of his loan deal at the end of the campaign, but whether Tevez is content with a diet of League Cup outings and a substitute role when the big games come around is another matter. Tevez's goal all but secured victory for United although late penalties converted by Derby's Giles Barnes and Ronaldo, plus an injury-time free-kick by Barnes ensured a lively finale.

Manchester United 4 - 2 Derby Highlight

BPL : Everton late show denies Liverpool

2009-01-20T15:19:00.003+08:00

Tim Cahill denied Liverpool top spot in the Premier League after the Everton player pounced four minutes from time as a thrilling Merseyside derby ended 1-1 at Anfield on Monday.

Steven Gerrard, captaining his club for the 250th time in his career, thought he had sent Rafa Benitez's side back to the summit after breaking the deadlock with a superb long-range finish in the 68th minute, the England international's 14th goal of the season. But Australian international Cahill had the last say as he pounced in the 86th minute after the Liverpool defence had failed to deal properly with a set-piece.

Everton's success this season has been built on a backs-to-the-wall, hard-to-beat mentality which has served them well in the absence of injured strikers Yakubu and Louis Saha. They arrived at Anfield boasting one of the best away records in the top-tier and, despite their lack of firepower, it took just 35 seconds for Moyes's side to show they were not at Anfield to make up the numbers as Victor Anichebe forced a full-stretch save from Jose Reina.

Benitez had outlined his intentions on the teamsheet by naming one of his most attacking sides of the season, Torres starting for the first time since November 26 alongside the recalled Robbie Keane. Yet it was Reina who continued to be the busier of the two keepers, the Spaniard kept on his toes by Cahill's 26th minute header following a dangerous cross by the industrious Anichebe.

Torres, with his injury problems behind him, was looking to become the first Reds player in the history of the club to net four in a row against Everton having scored his side's last three in Merseyside derbies. The Spanish striker went agonisingly close to achieving that feat after Sami Hyypia had carved open the visitors defence in the 28th minute soon after Torres had been felled by Steven Pienaar which earned Everton's South African midfielder a booking. Perhaps Torres was feeling rusty after his recent lay-off but his effort, to Everton's relief, shaved the outside of the post and the home side's best chance of the opening 45 minutes was gone.

Having started the half confidently, Everton were relieved to hear the half time whistle as Albert Riera dispatched a ferocious long range effort narrowly wide of Tim Howard's post two minutes before the break. Liverpool continued to probe the visitors defence at the break, Howard spilling Gerrard's 55th minute effort only for Sami Hyypia to smash the rebound high into the Kop. Everton began to visibly tire with Benitez's side winning a string of corners yet they were unable to force home an advantage from the set-pieces.

Torres went close again from just outside the area but Liverpool appeared to be heading for another night of frustration before Gerrard had the last say. Soon after Webb had waved away Everton claims for a penalty when Anichebe went down under a challenge by Martin Skrtel, Liverpool's second half pressure paid off when Gerrard let fly from 25-yards, Howard beaten by the ferocity of the effort. But Liverpool's celebrations were cut short as Cahill pounced to give Everton a deserved point.

Liverpool 1 - 1 Everton Highlights

Chelsea lost Joe Cole for the rest of season

2009-01-19T22:19:00.002+08:00

Chelsea FC and England midfielder Joe Cole will miss the rest of the season after undergoing surgery for a serious knee ligament injury.

Cole ruptured an anterior cruciate ligament during Chelsea's FA Cup replay win at Southend United FC in midweek and on Saturday had successful reconstructive surgery. Chelsea have confirmed his absence for the remainder of the campaign.

Chelsea manager Luiz Felipe Scolari said: "I am very sad for Joe to have suffered this injury and I am disappointed to have lost a very important player for me and the club at such a vital moment in the competition. However, I believe that with his spirit, Joe will come back to Chelsea even better than before."

Cole had made 20 appearances in all competitions this term, scoring three goals. The London club sit third in the Premier League and will play Juventus in the UEFA Champions League first knockout round on 25 February and 10 March.

Transfer News : West Ham accept Man City's bid for Bellamy

2009-01-19T22:15:00.001+08:00

West Ham United have accepted a bid of about £14m from Manchester City for their Wales international striker Craig Bellamy who is believed to be travelling to Eastlands for a medical.

The former Liverpool and Newcastle forward has been given permission to speak to the City manager, Mark Hughes, after the club's bid was accepted. A matching offer from Tottenham had been rejected. Bellamy, 29, asked for a transfer to Spurs on Friday but West Ham were unwilling to sell to local rivals and have been angered about the publicity that preceded Tottenham's formal approach.

Bellamy was left out of the West Ham squad that defeated Fulham yesterday when, Gianfranco Zola said, the player was "not in the right frame of mind" to play.

BPL : Debut goal by Defoe saves Spurs

2009-01-19T09:59:00.002+08:00

Tottenham Hotspur 1 - 1 Portsmouth

Tottenham striker Jermain Defoe silenced the jeers of the travelling Portsmouth fans after scoring a vital equaliser against his old club in a 1-1 draw at White Hart Lane here Sunday.

The point moved Spurs off the bottom of the English Premier League table and out of the relegation zone on goal difference. Spurs manager Harry Redknapp, facing Pompey for the first time since his October switch to London, would have been disappointed after seeing his side miss a host of chances. Both teams stretched their winless league run to six games but remain firmly involved in the relegation dogfight.

Defoe, booed relentlessly by the Portsmouth fans, spurned a golden opportunity to put one over his old club but screwed his finish wide after being put in the clear by Pompey midfielder Sean Davis's wayward pass. Pompey's attacks were fleeting but they came close to breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute after poor goalkeeping from Spurs's Heurelho Gomes. The Brazilian could only parry Glen Johnson's weak long-range shot but made amends by flicking the ball away when it appeared England striker Peter Crouch was certain to score.

The match continued at breakneck pace as the home team continued to press but they could not force the ball into the goal, Defoe the guilty party twice in quick succession. First he got in the way of Roman Pavlyuchenko's goalbound header and then Defoe, given a free-header himself, could only direct it at James although the ex-Liverpool keeper still had to pull off an acrobatic save. Gomes made up for his nervy start when he denied David Nugent but the England forward should have given him no chance after being sent clear by Croatia midfielder Niko Kranjcar. Spurs came close again shortly before the hour mark but James was again on top form to keep out Lennon's deflected effort.

The significance of the save was magnified a minute later when Nugent atoned for his earlier miss with his first Premier League goal for Pompey. French midfielder Armand Traore made a typically forceful run which was cut short by Corluka's tackle. The loose ball fell to Nugent on the edge of the penalty area and his low shot, aided by a slight deflection off Gareth Bale, gave Gomez no chance.

The visiting fans wasted no time in reminding Redknapp, who guided Pompey to the FA Cup last season, of the score. But their cheers were soon cut short when Defoe scored his first goal since returning to White Hart Lane. Midfielder Didier Zakora passed to Croatia playmaker Luka Modric and his lay-off found the former West Ham striker who planted a low left-foot shot beyond James's despairing dive. Spurs substitute Darren Bent had a glorious opportunity to win the game with 10 minutes left but directed his free header wide of the target.

Tottenham Hotspur 1 - 1 Portsmouth Highlights

West Ham United 3 - 1 Fulham

At Upton Park, Hammers boss Gianfranco Zola left Bellamy out of his squad for the clash against Fulham after the former Liverpool star stormed out of training on Friday following the club's decision to deny him permission to speak to Tottenham.

Bellamy is determined to leave the east London team and could seal a move to Manchester City instead later this week, but Zola and company won't need to shed too many tears judging by this emphatic victory. David Di Michele was drafted into the side as Bellamy's replacement and scored West Ham's opener before making their third goal for Carlton Cole.

Mark Noble's penalty had put the hosts 2-1 in front following Paul Konchesky's stunning equaliser for Fulham as the Hammers extended their unbeaten run to five matches and moved up to.

Full results;

January 17
Blackburn Rovers 3 - 0 Newcastle United
Bolton 0 - 1 Manchester United
Chelsea 2 - 1 Stoke City
Manchester City 1 - 0 Wigan Athletic
Sunderland 1 - 2 Aston Villa
West Bromwich Albion 3 - 0 Middlesbrough
Hull City 1 - 3 Arsenal

January 18
West Ham United 3 - 1 Fulham
Tottenham Hotspur 1 - 1 Portsmouth

La Liga : Real Madrid win again

2009-01-19T09:45:00.000+08:00

Real Madrid came from a goal down to cut Barcelona's lead at the top to 12 points with a hard-fought 3-1 home victory over basement boys Osasuna on Sunday and end a week of boardroom infighting on a high.

In contrast to Barcelona's dazzling 5-0 thrashing of Deportivo La Coruna on Saturday, Real were fortunate to survive two strong penalty claims as they laboured to a win that lifts them into second above Sevilla on goal difference.

Osasuna went ahead through Iranian international Javad Nekounam's 19th-minute header but gifted Real an equaliser early in the second half with goalkeeper Roberto allowing Sergio Ramos's tame shot to creep in. Argentine Gonzalo Higuain struck his 12th goal of the season just after the hour mark to turn the game in Real's favour and Arjen Robben added a third they scarcely deserved.

Real's preparations for the Osasuna match had been far from perfect with president Ramon Calderon resigning on Friday, creating more unstability at the club who only axed coach Bernd Schuster before Christmas. Real almost scored after 24 seconds with Higuain showing a great turn of pace to get into the penalty area only to have his shot saved.

Osasuna had almost beaten Barcelona last weekend, conceding two late goals to lose 3-2 and took a 19th minute lead on Sunday when Jaroslav Plasil got down the byline and whipped in a great cross for Nekounam to head home. It was the first goal Real had conceded since the 2-0 defeat to Barcelona in mid-December. Ramos thought he had equalised in the 37th minute but the goal was ruled out for offside.

After the break the Spanish international got his goal with his speculative shot fumbled by keeper Roberto who allowed the ball to loop over his body. Robben then set up Higuain for a simple tap-in and scored himself in the dying seconds. Real had been let off the hook six minutes from time when Pepe appeared to foul Juanfran in the penalty area. The referee waved away the appeals and Juanfran, already booked, was sent off for diving.

Real Madrid 3 - 1 Osasuna Highlights

Full results;

January 17
Barcelona 5 - 0 Deportivo La Coruna
Sevilla 1 - 0 Numancia

January 18
Getafe 0 - 1 Racing Santander
Malaga 4 - 0 Espanyol
Real Madrid 3 - 1 Osasuna
Recreativo Huelva 2 - 0 Sporting Gijon
Valladolid 1 - 3 Real Betis
Villarreal 2 - 0 Mallorca
Athletic Bilbao 3 - 2 Valencia
Almeria 1 - 1 Atletico Madrid

Serie A : Shock loss for leaders Inter Milan

2009-01-19T09:29:00.001+08:00

Atalanta 3 - 1 Inter Milan

Veteran forward Cristiano Doni produced a masterful display to inspire Atalanta to a stunning 3-1 victory over Jose Mourinho's Inter Milan on Sunday.

But it was in Bergamo that the real drama happened as Doni scored a brace and set up the third in a magical first 45 minutes in which Atalanta totally dominated the reigning champions. It was only Inter's second league defeat of the season. He had the first clear chance of the game, juggling the ball in the box before volleying just wide of the near post. Then on 18 minutes he turned provider, heading the ball back across goal to club top scorer Sergio Floccari who turned Ivan Cordoba and scored with a crisp, low, left-foot finish from inside the area for his 10th Serie A strike of the season.

On 28 minutes, Atalanta did double their lead, thanks to a huge slice of fortune, as Doni's free-kick took a wicked deflection off Zlatan Ibrahimovic's arm in the Inter wall to wrong-foot Julio Cesar. Atalanta hit a third five minutes later as Doni rose between Cordoba and Burdisso seven yards out to head home Valdes's cross.

Mourinho threw on forwards Victor Obinna, Adriano and Luis Figo but it had little effect. Although the visitors improved after the break, Atalanta remained the more dangerous team and came within a whisker of a fourth on 55 minutes as Julio Cesar beat out Ferreira Pinto's shot only for Diego De Ascentis to clip the post with the follow up. Adriano did have a couple of efforts but failed to hit the target while Obinna had a great chance late on only to sky his shot before Ibrahimovic finally poked home a consolation from a yard out after a scramble in the box.

Atalanta 3 - 1 Inter Milan Highlights

Lazio 1 - 1 Juventus

In Rome, Juventus keeper Manninger made a hash of a deep Cristian Ledesma free-kick from out wide on the left, coming for it and then watching it sail over his head into the top corner on 24 minutes.

Lazio's lead lasted only six minutes as former Aston Villa defender Olof Mellberg headed home from a corner. Brazilian striker Amauri had several good chances for Juve after the break but Lazio's backline held firm as they edged to within four points of the Champions League qualification positions.

Torino 0 - 1 AS Roma

Julio Baptista was the hero again as AS Roma inched closer to the top four with a last gasp 1-0 win at Torino.

The Brazilian forward scoring a stunning bicycle kick two minutes into injury time that leaves Roma eighth, but just five points behind Genoa.

Full results;

January 17
Siena 1 - 0 Reggina
AC Milan 1 - 0 Fiorentina

January 18
Atalanta 3 - 1 Inter Milan
Cagliari 2 - 0 Udinese
Catania 1 - 2 Bologna
Chievo 2 - 1 Napoli
Lecce 0 - 2 Genoa
Sampdoria 0 - 2 Palermo
Torino 0 - 1 AS Roma
Lazio 1 - 1 Juventus

BPL :Dimitar Berbatov sent United top

2009-01-18T23:23:00.007+08:00

Bolton 0 - 1 Manchester United

Dimitar Berbatov's last-minute header sent Manchester United to the Barclays Premier League summit. It appeared the Red Devils would have to settle for a point despite keeping a record-equalling 10th clean sheet. But when Carlos Tevez broke free of the Bolton Wanderers defence, his cross was perfect for Berbatov, who finally broke Jussi Jaaskelainen's brave resistance.

United's first decent opportunity arrived after 35 minutes when Gary Neville fed a pass to Fletcher, who had galloped into the Bolton box. The Scotland midfielder cut a cross back to the near post where Ronaldo jumped but could only bounce a header at Jaaskelainen. Berbatov got on the end of another Fletcher cross, this time to the far post, but his header lacked power and Gardner hacked clear.

In between, Makakula looped a header towards the United goal that Van der Sar caught with ease. The Congolese front-man was giving Vidic a physical battering, which is not quite what Basham did to Berbatov at the other end but the United man still won a free-kick for his side. Ronaldo took it, forcing Jaaskelainen into an excellent save with a stinging low effort. Another excellent save from Jaaskelainen denied Anderson, who had let fly from 30 yards.

At the start of the second half, Matt Taylor took a blow on the back of the head that needed treatment although he was on the field again when Makukula slipped a pass to Davies, whose cross just dropped beyond Basham, who had wriggled free at the far post. Tevez played a neat pass to Carrick on the edge of the box but the England man looked to feed an even tighter ball through to Berbatov rather than going for goal himself and met with no reward.

Ronaldo has not been in top form recently but another stinging free-kick was too much for Jaaskelainen to hold and Makukula hooked clear. Another United attack floundered because of a poor Ronaldo pass and it was no surprise Ferguson introduced Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes 20 minutes from time. Ronaldo had yet another shot saved by Jaaskelainen. But just as it appeared Bolton would hold on for a point, Tevez broke free and pulled a cross back for Berbatov. The header was firm. And this time Jaaskelainen had no answer.

Bolton 0 - 1 Manchester United Highlights

Chelsea 2 - 1 Stoke City

There was an even more dramatic late show at Stamford Bridge, where Chelsea scored twice in the last two minutes to snatch a 2-1 win over Stoke.

The Londoners had fallen behind on the hour mark after Rory Delap, demonstrating there is more to his game than his dangerous long throws, produced a classic striker's chipped finish to beat Petr Cech following a pass from new signing James Beattie. That goal game completely against the run of play and Chelsea's intense pressure finally told at the death as Juliano Belletti's 88th-minute strike and a stoppage time winner from Frank Lampard earned Luiz Felipe Scolari's side a morale-boosting victory.

Sunderland 1 - 2 Aston Villa

Aston Villa consolidated their grip on fourth place thanks to an 80th-minute penalty from Gareth Barry, which enabled Martin O'Neill's side to claim a scarcely-deserved 2-1 win at Sunderland. The Black Cats had been good value for their first-half lead, courtesy of Danny Collins's 10th-minute header from a Carlos Edwards free-kick.

That was cancelled out in controversial circumstances on the hour mark when James Milner bundled Ashley Young's low cross over the line with Sunderland's defenders furiously protesting that the final contact had come off the winger's arm. Young was sent off soon afterwards for a two-footed lounge at Dean Whitehead but Villa went on to claim all three points after Paul McShane brought down Gabriel Agbonlahor right on the edge of the penalty area.

Hull City 1 - 3 Arsenal

Arsenal struck twice late on to see off battling Hull City and keep pace with the Barclays Premier League top four.

Hull had looked set to frustrate the Gunners for the second time this season when Daniel Cousin cancelled out Emmanuel Adebayor's opener in the second half. But the KC Stadium visitors produced a strong finish and snatched victory with goals in the final nine minutes from Samir Nasri and Nicklas Bendtner.

Other results;

January 17
Blackburn Rovers 3 - 0 Newcastle United
Bolton 0 - 1 Manchester United
Chelsea 2 - 1 Stoke City
Manchester City 1 - 0 Wigan Athletic
Sunderland 1 - 2 Aston Villa
West Bromwich Albion 3 - 0 Middlesbrough
Hull City 1 - 3 Arsenal

January 18
West Ham United ? - ? Fulham
Tottenham Hotspur ? - ? Portsmouth

Serie A : Milan title hope alive despite Kaka saga

2009-01-18T11:07:00.001+08:00

AC Milan put the Kaka transfer saga behind them to earn a vital 1-0 Serie A victory over Fiorentina at the San Siro to keep their title hopes alive.

Third-placed Milan began the day nine points behind leaders Inter Milan but closed the gap to just six ahead of their bitter rivals' trip to Atalanta on Sunday. The build-up to Milan's match had been dominated by Manchester City's reported 100-plus million euro bid for Kaka and Milan fans made their thoughts known before kick-off by unveiling a host of banners pleading with the Brazilian star to stay.

Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti kept the former FIFA World Player of the Year in the starting side and handed ex-England skipper David Beckham a home debut. However, Ronaldinho was dropped to the bench in favour of Massimo Ambrosini as Ancelotti looked for more midfield steel. Kaka would have dearly loved to score but instead it was his teenage compatriot Pato who snatched the winner to condemn Fiorentina to a second successive defeat. They remain in sixth place in the table.

Beckham had tried to cross from the left but hit a defender. As players rushed to the loose ball, Beckham got there just before two Fiorentina defenders and poked it back to Marek Jankulovski who played in Pato in the space vacated by the visiting players. There looked to be little danger from his position just inside the box in the left hand corner but Pato hit a stunning strike across goal and in off the far post. Fiorentina were enjoying the better of the game, although with the talent at Milan's disposal they looked the more dangerous.

AC Milan 1 - 0 Fiorentina Highligts

Other results;

January 17
Siena 1 - 0 Reggina
AC Milan 1 - 0 Fiorentina

January 18
Atalanta ? - ? Inter Milan
Cagliari ? - ? Udinese
Catania ? - ? Bologna
Chievo ? - ? Napoli
Lecce ? - ? Genoa
Sampdoria ? - ? Palermo
Torino ? - ? AS Roma
Lazio ? - ? Juventus

La Liga : 'Five' star Barca crushing Deportivo

2009-01-18T10:56:00.001+08:00

Barcelona were back to their brilliant best, crushing Deportivo La Coruna 5-0 at the Camp Nou to maintain their 12-point lead over Sevilla at the top of La Liga.

A mesmerising first half display saw Barca score three times with Lionel Messi, voted second behind Cristiano Ronaldo in the FIFA World Player of the Year award on Monday, Thierry Henry and Samuel Eto'o all on the scoresheet. Henry grabbed his 11th goal of the season with eight minutes left while Eto'o took his personal tally to 18 with a second from the penalty spot in the closing stages.

The Catalan giants are now 17 matches unbeaten in the league and have set a new record of 50 points at the halfway point of the season. Real set the previous best of 47 points last season. Barcelona had struggled to defeat bottom side Osasuna 3-2 last weekend but Guardiola kept faith with his first choice XI leaving Andres Iniesta on the bench.

The inevitable breakthrough came on 21 minutes with Messi dribbling at speed before guiding his shot in off the post for his 12th of the season. Henry went into double figures for the campaign six minutes later, heading in a pinpoint cross from Dani Alves. Messi should have scored his second with a clear header but missed the target and Eto'o spurned another great chance.

The Cameroon forward finally got his goal after 41 minutes with a tap-in. Henry made it 4-0 on 82 minutes and Eto'o completed the scoring with a late penalty after goalkeeper Daniel Aranzubia chopped down Carles Puyol and was subsequently red-carded.

Barcelona 5 - 0 Deportivo La Coruna Highlights

Other results;

January 17
Barcelona 5 - 0 Deportivo La Coruna
Sevilla 1 - 0 Numancia

January 18
Getafe ? - ? Racing Santander
Malaga ? - ? Espanyol
Real Madrid ? - ? Osasuna
Recreativo Huelva ? - ? Sporting Gijon
Valladolid ? - ? Real Betis
Villarreal ? - ? Mallorca
Athletic Bilbao ? - ? Valencia
Almeria ? - ? Atletico Madrid

Transfer News : On loan news in Premier League

2009-01-17T01:52:00.004+08:00

Manucho (Manchester United to Hull City)

Hull on Friday agreed to take Manchester United's Angolan striker Manucho on loan until the end of the season.

Manucho has made one Barclays Premier League appearance to date for United, who last season loaned him out to Greek side Panathinaikos. Hull still have to secure a work permit for the 25-year-old. The Tigers are also chasing former Liverpool right-back Steve Finnan from Espanyol.

Gael Givet (Marseille to Blackburn Rovers)

France defender Gael Givet has joined Blackburn Rovers on loan from Marseille for the rest of the season, the Premier League side have announced.

Rovers added they had an option to purchase the defender on a full-time basis at the end of the season. Givet, who can play at left-back or in central defence, has been capped 13 times by France but has not played for Marseille this season after falling out of favour with manager Eric Gerets.

Aziza Makukula (Benfica to Bolton Wanderers)

Portugal international Aziza Makukula of Benfica has been loaned to Bolton till the end of the season, Benfica said on Friday, after a move to West Bromwich Albion fell through.

The Portuguese club added, in a statement on Portuguese financial site CMVM, that there would also be an option to buy the 27-year-old striker for five million euros. The West Brom deal did not succeed because Makukula did not want to join a club which was bottom of the Premier League

FA Cup : Chelsea bounce back to move on

2009-01-15T18:26:00.009+08:00

Chelsea improved as the match went on to beat Southend United 4-1 in an FA Cup third round replay on Wednesday after a jittery opening against the League One (third division) side.

Goals from Michael Ballack, Salomon Kalou, Nicolas Anelka and Frank Lampard gave Chelsea, with only one win in their previous six matches, a deserved win after Southend had taken a 16th-minute lead with an Adam Barrett header. Chelsea set up a fourth-round meeting with Ipswich Town of the Championship (second division) after taking control of the game which at one point in the evening was called off by referee Chris Hoy because of fog. However, seven minutes after he took that decision, the fog lifted at Roots Hall and he allowed the match to go ahead.

Southend were initially very pleased it did, taking a shock lead when Barrett exploited a weakness in Chelsea's new zonal marking system to power in a header after 16 minutes. Southend almost made it 2-0 20 minutes later when the zonal system failed again and Alex Revell headed straight at Chelsea keeper Peter Cech.

Ballack put Chelsea back in the match seconds before halftime with a well struck goal after a Southend mix-up before Kalou and Anelka added further goals in the second half. Lampard's close-range effort in stoppage time completed the comeback.

In other matches, Hull City also made it through to the last 32 when they won the all-Premier League replay 1-0 against Newcastle United at St James' Park with an 81st minute tap-in from Daniel Cousin. Newcastle manager Joe Kinnear and Hull counterpart Phil Brown were sent to the stands in the first half after squaring up to each other on the touchline.

While, Crystal Palace earned a trip to fellow Championship side Watford in the next round after they beat League One (third division) leaders Leicester City 2-1 at Selhurst Park with Paul Ifill and teenage substitute Sean Scannell scoring Palace's goals.

Southend 1 - 4 Chelsea Highlights

Full results;

Newcastle United 0 - 1 Hull City
Crystal Palace 2 - 1 Leicester City
Southend United 1 - 4 Chelsea

Serie A : Baptista brace seals Roma win

2009-01-15T18:20:00.001+08:00

Brazilian Julio Baptista struck twice to give AS Roma a 2-0 win over Sampdoria in their rearranged Serie A game on Wednesday.

The forward scored with a tremendous free kick on 21 minutes and eight minutes after the break he slotted in a second. Roma, last season's runners-up, had a terrible start to the campaign but have gradually been improving and are now up to eighth place.

The original game in October was abandoned after six minutes because of torrential rain. The rematch kicked off with six minutes already on the clock. Ineffective Samp, who bought Fiorentina striker Giampaolo Pazzini earlier in the day, remain five points above the drop zone.

Roma 2 - 0 Sampdoria Highlights

BPL : Rooney injury mars United triumph

2009-01-15T18:02:00.004+08:00

Wayne Rooney kept Manchester United on course for the English Premier League's top spot before being struck down by injury as the European and World champions secured a tense 1-0 win at home to Wigan.

United can now climb to the top of the table for the first time this season if they win at Bolton on Saturday after Rooney's first-minute goal sealed victory against former United centreback Steve Bruce's team. The win however came at a cost for United boss Sir Alex Ferguson who is set to be without Rooney for three weeks after the star striker limped off with a hamstring injury in just the seventh minute.

Although Wigan had arrived at Old Trafford in fine form, having won six of their last seven league games, their record against United was a sorry six defeats from six meetings in the Premier League, so the form book was certainly on the champions side as they attempted to edge to within two points of leaders Liverpool.

Sunday's 3-0 victory over Chelsea at Old Trafford emphasised the growing confidence within United ranks, however, and the determination to put pressure on Liverpool was evident as Ferguson's team raced out of the traps at the start of the game. But even so, United's lightning start took the breath away as they opened the scoring inside the first minute when Rooney pounced on Ronaldo's cross from the right flank.

The United winger easily beat his marker on the edge of the penalty area and his cross into the six-yard box was missed by defender Paul Scharner, allowing Rooney to stroke the ball home from close range. It proved to be Rooney's last involvement in the game, though, with the England forward succumbing to injury just six minutes later.

Ferguson replaced Rooney with Carlos Tevez and the Argentinian forward whose future at the club is far from secure should have doubled United's lead after being teed up by John O'Shea midway through the first-half. O'Shea's header from Wigan goalkeeper Chris Kirkland's clearance freed Tevez thirty yards from goal, but the former West Ham striker over-ran the ball after rounding the keeper and he could only aim his shot into the side-netting.

Manchester United 1 - 0 Wigan Athletic Highlights

Photo : FIFA World Player of The Year 2008 Award

2009-01-14T14:51:00.005+08:00

Video : FIFA World Player of The Year 2008 Award

2009-01-14T14:32:00.005+08:00

FIFA World Player of The Year 2008 - Cristiano Ronaldo

Transfer News : Man City launch world record bid for Kaka

2009-01-14T14:06:00.004+08:00

Manchester City have opened talks with AC Milan over signing Brazil's playmaker Kaka for a fee that could rise as high as £100 million.

The Eastlands club have sent a delegation, thought to include chief executive Garry Cook and chief operating officer Paul Aldridge, to discuss a possible move with both the Italian side and the player, who could stand to earn a staggering £15 million a year net or £500,000 a week gross.

While City's Arab owners harbour hopes of completing any possible deal before the transfer window closes at the end of this month, sources inside the club believe the move is more likely to go through in the summer.

That view was reinforced on Tuesday when Milan's owner, the Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, said he knew nothing of the transfer and revealed that he regards the Brazilian to be untransferable.

He said: "I know nothing about a Manchester City offer for Kaka. I think he's not transferable and given that is the case, he will stay at Milan."

The Italian club's director Adriano Galliani has already indicated that his side, for whom David Beckham made his league debut on Monday against Roma, have finished their activity in the January transfer window, but the Eastlands negotiators will be hoping to open up the possibility of a summer move instead.

If City's mission proves fruitless, either in the short or long term, it will lend the transfer window an even deeper air of anticlimax for the club. telegraph

Cristiano Ronaldo is the best in planet

2009-01-13T07:52:00.002+08:00

Cristiano Ronaldo tonight became the first Premier League star to be named FIFA's world player of the year.

The Manchester United and Portugal winger beat AC Milan's Kaka, Liverpool's Fernando Torres and Barcelona's Lionel Messi and Xavi to take the award at a star-studded gala in Zurich. It caps a stunning year for the 23-year-old in which he played the starring role as United won the Premier League, Champions League and Club World Cup. His 31 league goals in the 2008-09 season, and 42 in total, won him the European Golden Shoe as the continent's top scorer. He was also awarded the Ballon d'Or by France Football magazine, and named FIFPro's player of the year.

Premier League players have finished as runner-up before, David Beckham and Thierry Henry both did so twice while Frank Lampard also came second two years ago but Ronaldo becomes the first to take the top prize. Ronaldo dedicated the award to his family but also paid tribute to influence of United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

He said: "It's a dream come true for me to get this award and I would like to dedicate this to my family. But it's also true that the manager always has an important role to play. It was a great season for me and for my club, and the coach was important for me because I learned a lot for him. His experience over so many years is of paramount importance, it's a privilege to have such a great club manager."

Messi finished in second place and Torres came third ahead of fourth-placed Kaka and Xavi.

Full result of votes:

Cristiano Ronaldo: 935
Lionel Messi: 678
Fernando Torres: 203
Kaka: 183
Xavi: 155

La Liga : Raul celebrated his 500th league appearance

2009-01-12T22:20:00.006+08:00

Mallorca 0 - 3 Real Madrid

Real Madrid captain Raul celebrated his 500th league appearance in the famous white shirt with a goal as the champions climbed to second with a comfortable 3-0 win at Real Mallorca on Sunday.

Incredibly it was Real's first away win in the league since 18 October and the capital giants are now nine points behind tabletoppers Barcelona who have a game in hand. Arjen Robben opened the scoring as early as the third minute before Raul, 31, struck on 17 minutes with his seventh goal of the campaign and Sergio Ramos netted a third in the second half.

For Real, Dutch forward Klaas-Jan Huntelaar, who made his debut last weekend, was dropped to the bench with Gonzalo Higuain, back from a bout of tonsilitis, partnering Raul in attack. Higuain had an immediate impact, lofting a third minute pass to Robben who was just onside as he raced clear before slotting home to score for the second consecutive game.

Higuain was the provider again on 17 minutes powering down the right flank before fizzing in a cross that Raul flicked in with his trailing leg. Just before the interval the Mallorca players were up in arms at not being awarded a penalty when Pepe appeared to use his hand to block a shot but the referee waved play on.

Ramos volleyed in a third on 66 minutes and Real kept a third successive clean sheet to suggest things are improving under new manager Juande Ramos. Frontrunners Barcelona can move 12 points clear of Real again when they face basement side Osasuna later on Sunday.

Mallorca 0 - 3 Real Madrid Highlights

Osasuna 2 - 3 Barcelona

Lionel Messi scored a thunderous 84th-minute winner as leaders Barcelona came back to overcome bottom side Osasuna 3-2 on Sunday and restore their 12-point cushion over second-placed Real Madrid.

It was all going to plan for Barcelona when Messi set up Samuel Eto'o to score just before the break but Miguel Flaño turned in a corner to equalise not long after the hour mark and ten minutes later Walter Pandiani seemed to have put the visitors' 16-game unbeaten Liga run in jeopardy.

However, on his 300th league appearance Xavi turned in a Daniel Alves cross and with five minutes left Messi's superb finish sealed the win.

Full results;

January 10
Deportivo La Coruna 1 - 3 Sevilla
Valencia 3 - 3 Villarreal

January 11
Atletico Madrid 2 - 3 Athletic Bilbao
Mallorca 0 - 3 Real Madrid
Numancia 2 - 0 Getafe
Racing Santander 1 - 1 Recreativo Huelva
Real Betis 1 - 2 Malaga
Sporting Gijon 2 - 1 Valladolid
Espanyol 2 - 2 Almeria
Osasuna 2 - 3 Barcelona

Serie A Del Piero does it again for Juventus

2009-01-12T22:06:00.008+08:00

Juventus 1 - 0 Siena

Alessandro Del Piero scored a stunning free-kick to hand Juventus a 1-0 home win over Siena at Turin's Olympic stadium on Sunday and close the gap at the top behind leaders Inter Milan to four points.

Inter left the door open with a surprise 1-1 home draw against Cagliari on Saturday night and Del Piero's sixth goal of the season direct from a free-kick allowed the Old Lady of Turin to take full advantage. Despite his advancing years, the 34-year-old Del Piero seems to be getting better and better. This was his seventh league goal of the season and 12th in all competitions, but most remarkable has been his free-kick record.

Previous successful dead-ball strikes helped Juve beat Real Madrid home and away in the Champions League while another downed Zenit St Petersburg 1-0 in Turin. And in the league he has been equally deadly, previously hitting the back of the net against Palermo and Chievo.

Juventus 1 - 0 Siena Highlights

AS Roma 2 - 2 AC Milan

All the attention ahead of AC Milan's trip to AS Roma on Sunday may have been focused on David Beckham, but the Englishman was upstaged at the Stadio Olimpico by a Brazilian 14 years his junior as Pato struck both Rossoneri goals in a 2-2 draw.

The 19-year-old signed off before the winter break with two goals in the 5-1 defeat of Udinese Calcio, and repeated the trick early in the second half last night. With Milan trailing, Pato combined superbly with compatriot Kakà for his first strike but it was his second, a deft chip five minutes later, which earned him plaudits not least from his new team-mate.

Pato struck nine league goals in 18 games last season in his first campaign in Italy since leaving SC Internacional and is already within one of that tally this term.

Full results;

January 10
Genoa 3 - 0 Torino
Inter Milan 1 - 1 Cagliari

January 11
Bologna 1 - 1 Chievo
Fiorentina 1 - 2 Lecce
Juventus 1 - 0 Siena
Napoli 1 - 0 Catania
Palermo 3 - 2 Atalanta
Reggina 2 - 3 Lazio
Udinese 1 - 1 Sampdoria
AS Roma 2 - 2 AC Milan

BPL : Glorious performance by Champions

2009-01-12T21:47:00.008+08:00

Manchester United 3 - 0 Chelsea

Manchester United's grip on the Premier League trophy tightened significantly on Sunday as Sir Alex Ferguson's side put Chelsea to the sword in front of a jubilant Old Trafford. Nemanja Vidic's header on the stroke of half-time was followed by second-half goals for Wayne Rooney and Dimitar Berbatov as the champions ran out 3-0 winners in what had been billed as one of the season's pivotal encounters.

In terms of territory and possession, Chelsea's best spell was the opening half-hour, a period in which referee Howard Webb brandished four yellow cards yet was surprisingly lacking in intensity. Ashley Cole's domination of Cristiano Ronaldo in their personal battle helped to ensure United were equally uninspired until the approach of half-time finally prompted them into the phase of sustained pressure that was to yield their opening goal.

It began with Park Ji-Sung forcing John Terry into last-ditch block. The ensuing corner resulted in United appealing furiously for a penalty as Darren Fletcher's mishit shot appeared to strike Terry's outstretched arm just inside the box. There followed another corner, to which United applied what appeared to be a cleverly conceived training ground ploy with Rooney tapping the ball off the corner before walking away as if he had decided to leave it for someone else.

Chelsea's defence bought the bluff and switched off, allowing Ryan Giggs to pick up the ball and send in a chip that Cristiano Ronaldo headed in at the near post, only for the linesman to flag mistakenly that the corner had not been taken legitimately. It was an incident with almost limitless potential for debate but its impact was neutralised when United scored from the retaken corner. This time, Giggs sent the dead ball into the area, Berbatov flicked-on and Vidic's diving header squeezed past Cech at his back post.

Instead it was to be United who applied the killer blow, just after an hour had elapsed. Once again, Evra, revelling in his return from a four-match suspension imposed following his bust-up with a groundsman after the 1-1 draw between the two sides at Stamford Bridge earlier in the season, played a central role. Released by Ronaldo's backheel, the Frenchman whipped in a dipping cross that both Terry and Ashley Cole might have cleared before Rooney prodded it past Cech from close range. With Chelsea demoralised, Berbatov was able to add a third in the closing minutes, drifting between Michael Ballack and Terry to prod home Ronaldo's low cross from the left of the box.

Manchester United 3 - 0 Chelsea Highlights

Wigan Athletic 1 - 0 Tottenham Hotspur

In the day's earlier game, Maynor Figueroa's stoppage-time header secured Wigan Athletic's 1-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur at the JJB Stadium as they strengthened their grip on seventh place in the Premier League.

Defeat was cruel on Spurs, who had to play the closing stages with goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes unable to move freely because of a leg injury after using all their substitutes, and left the visitors in the bottom three.

It looked as if the Londoners, with Jermain Defoe making his second debut for the club after re-joining Spurs from Portsmouth, would salvage a draw. But with Gomes rooted to his line, unmarked Honduran left-back Figueroa headed in powerfully from a Ryan Taylor corner in the 91st minute to score his first goal for north-west side Wigan.

This win meant Wigan had taken 18 points out of a possible 21 from their last seven league matches. Spurs had the better of what chances there were in a goalless first-half although it was Wigan who finished the opening period the stronger and Gomes had to smother a close-range effort from Emile Heskey in the 39th minute.

Tottenham with Ledley King in a re-shaped defence looked to be seeing out a lively second-half where referee Andre Marriner booked several Wigan players. But Steve Bruce's men had the last laugh over Harry Redknapp's team when the Spurs defence failed to pick-up Figueroa.

Full results;

January 10
Aston Villa 2 - 1 West Bromwich Albion
Arsenal 1 - 0 Bolton Wanderers
Everton 2 - 0 Hull City
Fulham ? - ? Blackburn Rovers (Postp.)
Middlesbrough 1 - 1 Sunderland
Newcastle U. 2 - 2 West Ham United
Portsmouth ? - ? Manchester City (Postp.)
Stoke City 0 - 0 Liverpool

January 11
Wigan Athletic 1 - 0 Tottenham Hotspur
Manchester United 3 - 0 Chelsea

La LIga : Sevilla go second, Valencia held

2009-01-11T18:51:00.005+08:00

Deportivo La Coruna 1 - 3 Sevilla

Ten-man Sevilla climbed to second in the Primera Liga with a 3-1 comeback win at Deportivo La Coruna on Saturday

Trailing 1-0 and with a man less at the start of the second half, Frederic Kanoute was sent on as a Sevilla substitute and set up Luis Fabiano and then Renato for goals before Diego Capel sealed the win.

Sevilla have 35 points from 18 games and trail runaway leaders Barcelona by nine. Barca, who have played a game less, visit bottom club Osasuna on Sunday. Valencia are third with 34 points, two ahead of champions Real Madrid who are away to Real Mallorca on Sunday. Villarreal are sixth with 30.

Valencia 3 - 3 Villarreal

Ruben Baraja and David Villa put Valencia two-up inside ten minutes at the Mestalla as they ran Villarreal ragged in the first half, but Fabricio Fuentes pulled one back with a header just before the break.

Joseba Llorente levelled for the visitors in the 76th minute before Edu restored Valencia's lead three minutes later with a great header. Giuseppe Rossi grabbed Villarreal's equaliser from the penalty spot six minutes from time, ending a run of three straight defeats.

Other results;

January 10
Deportivo La Coruna 1 - 3 Sevilla
Valencia 3 - 3 Villarreal

January 11
Atletico Madrid ? - ? Athletic Bilbao
Mallorca ? - ? Real Madrid
Numancia ? - ? Getafe
Racing Santander ? - ? Recreativo Huelva
Real Betis ? - ? Malaga
Sporting Gijon ? - ? Valladolid
Espanyol ? - ? Almeria
Osasuna ? - ? Barcelona

Serie A : Ibrahimovic comes to Inter's rescue

2009-01-11T18:35:00.004+08:00

Zlatan Ibrahimović struck 14 minutes from time to rescue a point for Inter Milan who kicked off the new year with a surprise 1-1 draw at home to Cagliari.

Inter controlled the game without making the most of their chances and they fell behind against the run of play when Robert Acquafresca fired in from the edge of the area on 65 minutes. Inter, however, were not behind for long and Ibrahimović hit back on 76 minutes with his eleventh league goal of the season when he turned in Hernán Crespo's cross. Things could have been worse for Inter had Acquafresca not missed from close range late on after pouncing on a rebound from Júlio César.

The result stretches Inter's lead at the top of the table to seven points, though second-placed Juventus could cut that to four should they win at home to AC Siena on Sunday.

Inter Milan 1 - 1 Cagilari Highlights

Other results;

January 10
Genoa 3 - 0 Torino
Inter Milan 1 - 1 Cagliari

January 11
Bologna ? - ? Chievo
Fiorentina ? - ? Lecce
Juventus ? - ? Siena
Napoli ? - ? Catania
Palermo ? - ? Atalanta
Reggina ? - ? Lazio
Udinese ? - ? Sampdoria
AS Roma ? - ? AC Milan

BPL : Liverpool frustrated by Stoke

2009-01-11T18:11:00.008+08:00

Stoke City 0 - 0 Liverpool

Premier League leaders Liverpool could only grind out a 0-0 draw at struggling Stoke City on Saturday, missing the chance to open a six-point gap at the top.

Manager Rafael Benitez launched a verbal volley at Manchester United counterpart Alex Ferguson on Friday but his team were tame by comparison and apart from two late Steven Gerrard efforts that hit the woodwork the visitors were second best. Chelsea, in second, can move within a point of the lead if they beat the champions at Old Trafford.

Stoke, now out of the relegation zone, were the better side in the first half. Long-throw specialist Rory Delap smashed one shot against the crossbar while Ryan Shawcross had a goal ruled out. Benitez started with strikers Fernando Torres and Robbie Keane on the bench while Gerrard, playing a more advanced role, struggled to make an impact.

Dave Kitson went close for Stoke in the second half when he headed a Delap throw-in over the bar and Glenn Whelan shaved the post with a fierce free kick. Liverpool came alive once Torres was introduced and Gerrard could have snatched victory. First he swerved a free kick on to the bar and then he found the outside of the post with an angled shot in the dying seconds.

Stoke City 0 - 0 Liverpool Highlights

Aston Villa 2 - 1 West Bromwich Albion

Aston Villa edged a narrow win over West Bromwich Albion to climb above Manchester United into third spot in the Barclays Premier League.

Curtis Davies headed the opening goal against his old club. Gabriel Agbonlahor claimed the second but it went down as an own goal as his cross-shot went in off Baggies goalkeeper Scott Carson who was on loan at Villa last season. James Morrison pulled one back early in the second half to set up a tense finale but it proved merely scant consolation.

Villa are now unbeaten in nine league matches, from which they have taken 21 points, and there is a momentum about the team which suggests they could clinch a Champions League spot.

Arsenal 1 - 0 Bolton Wanderers

Denmark striker Nicklas Bendtner came off the bench to fire a late winner as Arsenal finally ended Bolton Wanderers''s stubborn resistance at Emirates Stadium.

The Gunners had dominated possession, but failed to unlock the visitors, who put 10 men behind the ball. However, just when time looked to be running out, Bendtner arrived at the far post to volley in a first goal since November and renew hopes Arsene Wenger's men can force their way back into the race for the Barclays Premier League title.

Following Aston Villa's win over West Bromwich Albion, the Gunners were again playing catch-up on the top four, but moved level on points with Manchester United who host Chelsea tomorrow and already have two matches in hand.

Other results;

January 10
Aston Villa 2 - 1 West Bromwich Albion
Arsenal 1 - 0 Bolton Wanderers
Everton 2 - 0 Hull City
Fulham ? - ? Blackburn Rovers (Postp.)
Middlesbrough 1 - 1 Sunderland
Newcastle U. 2 - 2 West Ham United
Portsmouth ? - ? Manchester City (Postp.)
Stoke City 0 - 0 Liverpool

January 11
Wigan Athletic ? - ? Tottenham Hotspur
Manchester United ? - ? Chelsea

Transfer News : Podolski close to re-joining former club

2009-01-10T02:29:00.002+08:00

Bayern Munich striker Lukas Podolski is close to joining former club FC Cologne, according to the club's general manager Uli Hoeness.

Podolski has become frustrated with his lack of first team football this season after featuring just 11 times in the Bundesliga, seven off those appearances coming from the bench, scoring three goals. Despite a lack of playing time the Germany international has still managed to represent his country on a regular basis, scoring three goals from four appearances.

The 23-year-old signed from FC Cologne in 2006 for 10million Euros (£8.9million) and now Hoeness admits that the striker is close to agreeing a deal which will take him back to the club where he made his name.

"I'm negotiating with Cologne," Hoeness told TV channel DSF at the team's winter training camp in Dubai. "Next week I'll resume discussions and I think we'll come to some kind of agreement before the end of the month."

Cologne have had a bid of 7.5million Euros (£6.7million) rejected, with Bayern holding out for a figure close to what they paid for his services.

Lucky Ronaldo uninjured in car crash

2009-01-10T02:20:00.002+08:00

Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo escaped unscathed on Thursday from a car crash that left his Ferrari a mangled wreck, and will be fit to play in Sunday's Premier League showdown with Chelsea.

His luxury sports car collided with a roadside barrier in a tunnel near Manchester airport as he was driving to training on Thursday morning. A photographer who arrived at the scene shortly afterwards described the Portugal winger's car as a "terrible mess" but Greater Manchester Police said no one had been injured.

"Officers attended and discovered a Ferrari had collided with a barrier," a statement said. "No one is believed to have been injured."

The Portugal international played as a second half substitute in United's 1-0 defeat away to Derby County in the first leg of the League Cup semi-final on Wednesday. Barring any delayed reaction to Friday's crash, he will be back in the starting line-up for Sunday's match at Old Trafford as United seek to overcome one of their major rivals in the battle to retain the Premier League trophy.

Transfer News : Welcome back Defoe

2009-01-10T02:01:00.004+08:00

Jermain Defoe has been cleared to play against Wigan Athletic on Sunday after completing his move back to Tottenham Hotspur from Portsmouth.

Defoe agreed terms to rejoin the club he left just over a year ago earlier in the week and was paraded to fans ahead of the Carling Cup semi-final first leg victory over Burnley but the paperwork was not filed immediately. Defoe has credited Harry Redknapp and the club's fans as the key reasons for his return to White Hart Lane.

"It feels crazy," he said. "Since I left I've been getting texts and everywhere I go I bump into Spurs fans, it's just great to be back. The fans were probably the main factor. I spoke to my cousin and he said 'the fans love you there'. For me it is a strange feeling. When you get that many fans who appreciate what you do, it's hard to find words how I feel about it. I want to start afresh, like it's the first time, and hopefully score a lot of goals."

It is the third club at which manager Redknapp will work with Defoe, after overseeing his development at West Ham and then signing him for Portsmouth. The deal is valued at around £15million, with the delay occurring as Spurs were entitled to an sell-on fee, even though they were also the club buying the player. It is thought that he has agreed a five-year contract.

Transfer News : Smith fury over Boro swap deal

2009-01-08T19:49:00.003+08:00

Alan Smith hit out as Newcastle agreed to swap him for Middlesbrough striker Mido.

A source said: “Alan’s really angry about this. He has been working hard to regain his fitness and wants to do well at Newcastle.”

Smith, a £6million signing from Manchester United 18 months ago, was never informed the clubs were in talks and found out only last night but he has no intention of quitting St James’ Park.

Newcastle are now threatening that Smith will never play for the club again if he does not accept the move. Smith, 28, sees the attempt to flog him behind his back as a massive slap in the face after spending three months working furiously to get fit following an ankle ligament operation.

The source added: “He is back in training and should be ready for selection by the end of the month. He does not want to go anywhere else.”

Gareth Southgate tried to sign Smith, who can play in midfield or up front, from Manchester United last season but Newcastle, managed by Sam Allardyce, beat him to it when they paid £6m for a player yet to win over the fans.

League Cup : Derby shock Manchester United

2009-01-08T16:41:00.003+08:00

Championship strugglers Derby County, with new manager Nigel Clough watching from the directors' box, beat Manchester United 1-0 in the semi-final first leg of the English League Cup at Pride Park on Wednesday.

Kris Commons 30th minute left-footed shot past United keeper Tomasz Kuszczak was enough to claim victory against the World, European and Premier League champions in Derby's first major semi-final since 1976. It ended the Red Devils' 14-match unbeaten streak dating back to 8 November when Arsenal beat them 2-1 at the Emirates stadium.

Without the calming influence of Rio Ferdinand, Vidic and Tomasz Kuszczak United were subjected to early moments of discomfort as they were unable to find any of their customary rhythm and it was hardly against the run of play when Derby deservedly broke the deadlock. Reaching the semi-final stage cost Commons almost 1,000 pounds in purchasing tickets for his friends, but the fulminating 25-yard shot he guided beyond United's Polish keeper after 30 minutes was pure gold dust for David Lowe, elevated from youth team coach to temporary Derby manager for the evening.

United were so unconvincing that Ferguson's plans to rest all his key players ahead of Sunday's League meeting with title rivals Chelsea at Stamford Bridge had to be abandoned after an hour. They had barely registered a shot against their former goalkeeper Roy Carroll's goal when Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo were introduced to cure the lethargy that gripped the overwhelming favourites.

Derby Country 1 - 0 Manchester United Highlights

David Beckham made AC Milan debut

2009-01-07T15:45:00.003+08:00

David Beckham made his long-awaited AC Milan debut today as the Serie A giants beat Hamburg 4-3 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in Dubai.

The former England captain started the game in a Milan midfield that also featured Andrea Pirlo, Massimo Ambrosini and Ronaldinho before being substituted at half-time.

Ronaldinho put the Rossoneri ahead with a 63rd-minute penalty, but Collin Benjamin equalised four minutes later. Beckham has joined Milan on loan from Major League Soccer side Los Angeles Galaxy until 8 March.

He could make his Serie A debut when Milan return to domestic action away to Roma on Sunday evening.

Hamburg 1 - 1 AC Milan (Ac Milan won penalty 4-3)

Fergie out of patience with Tevez

2009-01-07T15:28:00.003+08:00

Manchester United are set to kick out Carlos Tevez after the hitman admitted: I’d love to play for Real Madrid.

United boss Alex Ferguson is running out of patience with the 24-year-old Argentinian striker, who made it clear yesterday that clubs are lining up to sign him. Tevez’s owner and advisor, Kia Joorabchian, said:

“I don’t know if ‘Carlitos’ will go. It’s difficult to say. Anything can happen. Madrid want him and have showed concrete interest. They’re not the only club. There are many.”

Tevez, still on loan at Old Trafford, is unhappy that United have not opened talks about a new contract, or the possibility of buying him off Joorabchian for £32million. Tevez insisted in yesterday’s Sun that he wants to stay.

But admitting he would relish a move to Madrid is a red rag to United boss Ferguson, who cannot forgive the Spaniards for trying to lure away Cristiano Ronaldo last year. Tevez has just returned from a break and was expected to start in tonight’s Carling Cup semi-final clash at Derby. But Ferguson is now considering playing Danny Welbeck as the lone striker, ahead of a five-man midfield. Fergie has said the club are trying to sort a deal for Tevez but blamed his agent for the delay. TheSun

Copa del Rey : Messi 3 Attletico 1

2009-01-07T15:16:00.003+08:00

A superb Lionel Messi hat trick gave Barcelona a 3-1 win over ten-man Atletico Madrid in the first leg of their last 16 Copa del Rey tie. The Argentine forward, playing for the first time since the Christmas break, also hit the crossbar and many of the Atletico fans stood and applauded him when he was replaced near the end.

Barcelona made most of the early running at a chilly Vicente Calderon despite resting key players from the team who beat Real Mallorca at the weekend, including Xavi and Samuel Eto'o. A deft piece of skill from Daniel Alves unlocked the Atletico defence for Messi's opening goal on 12 minutes. The Argentine international played the ball inside and Alves sent a clever backheel through for him to run on to and place a low shot past Gregory Coupet.

Atletico had to play with ten men for most of the second half after defender John Heitinga felled Messi in the penalty area as he was racing to meet an Alves cross. The referee showed the Dutchman a red card and Messi sent Coupet the wrong way to double Barca's lead before substitute Tomas Ujfalusi pulled a goal back just over 10 minutes later with a header from Simao Sabrosa's corner.

Messi completed his hat-trick on 80 minutes when he picked the ball up in the area, wrong-footed Coupet and lifted the ball into the roof of the net. Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola said his side, who lead the Primera Liga by 11 points, had made a big step towards the quarter final ahead of next week's second leg.

The second legs take place on 14 and 15 January.

Atletico Madrid 1 - 3 Barcelona Highlights

Leagu Cup : Spurs on course for title defence

2009-01-07T14:43:00.002+08:00

Tottenham moved within touching distance of defending their League Cup title after super-substitute Jamie O'Hara inspired a 4-1 win over Burnley in Tuesday's semi-final first leg.

When Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp sent on O'Hara at half-time, Tottenham were trailing to Martin Paterson's early goal and had been completely outplayed by Owen Coyle's Championship team. But O'Hara's arrival sparked a remarkable transformation at White Hart Lane. The England Under-21 midfielder's free-kick set up the equaliser for Michael Dawson and he scored Tottenham's second himself before Roman Pavlyuchenko made it three for the Premier League club. O'Hara wasn't finished there and he layed on the fourth goal with another free-kick that Michael Duff headed into his own net.

It was a whirlwind spell that left Burnley bewildered and Spurs on the verge of returning to Wembley on 1 March to defend the trophy they won last year by beating Chelsea. All Tottenham have to do now is finish the job at Turf Moor in the second leg in two weeks and they will be able to look forward to a final showdown against Manchester United or Derby. Burnley had already claimed three Premier League scalps in the competition this season and those wins over Chelsea, Arsenal and Fulham made it clear they would be no pushover.

Tottenham 4 - 1 Burnley Highlights

Transfer News : Defoe heading back to Spurs

2009-01-07T00:03:00.002+08:00

England international striker Jermain Defoe is leaving Portsmouth and rejoin Harry Redknapp at Tottenham, the London club said on Tuesday.

Spurs confirmed Defoe, who only left the club last January, will be paraded in front of fans at White Hart Lane before Tuesday evening's Carling Cup semi-final first-leg clash with Championship side Burnley. A fee has been agreed on what is thought to be a five-year contract and the 26-year-old Defoe only needs to clear a medical to clinch the deal. Personal terms have been agreed and the striker will undergo a medical

Jermain Defoe is set to complete his transfer to White Hart Lane a year after leaving the London club. Spurs chairman Daniel Levy and Portsmouth chief executive Peter Storrie had been in talks over the weekend to negotiate a transfer fee in the region of £15 million.

"Personal terms have been agreed and the striker will undergo a medical," a statement from Spurs said.

Tottenham boss Redknapp bought Defoe for Pompey in the 2008 January window and his return had been suggested since the change of manager at White Hart Lane two months ago. He went on a run of eight goals in his first seven games for Portsmouth and has added nine goals this season so far.

Redknapp has prioritised a striker and a left-sided midfielder in the current transfer window, with Middlesbrough's Stewart Downing also subject of a bid from Spurs. Ghana international midfielder Stephen Appiah is on trial at White Hart Lane this week and could sign until the end of the season.

Transfer News : Tevez unhappy over United

2009-01-06T08:41:00.005+08:00

Manchester United striker Carlos Tevez has risked the wrath of Sir Alex Ferguson by reacting to the manager's comments regarding his contract situation.

Tevez has spent a lot of time on the bench. Tevez, 24, has revealed his disappointment at speculation that he had rejected a new offer from the Premier League champions, and reiterated his desire for his future to be sorted.

''I didn't like him (Ferguson) saying I didn't like the offer I was made because neither my agent nor me were given one." the Argentina international, whose deal runs out in the summer, told Radio del Plata. ''I don't know anything on my future. United know what they must pay if they want me to stay. I want to stay but the club have not made any offer. I've been waiting for them for a year and a half."

Tevez also was on collision course with Alex Ferguson after insisting: I’d love to play for Real Madrid. The striker dropped his bombshell by revealing a desire to join the club that Manchester United boss Fergie despises the most. Tevez admitted in a Spanish magazine:

“Who wouldn’t want to play for Real Madrid? Like Manchester, they are one of the best clubs in the world and it would be a pleasure to play for them.”

New Real boss Juande Ramos is keen on Tevez and the player says he would love to face Barcelona ace and pal Lionel Messi.

Transfer News : Marseille close in on Larsson loan

2009-01-06T08:30:00.003+08:00

Marseille coach Eric Gerets has said he is confident of landing Swedish veteran Henrik Larsson on loan in the transfer window.

Gerets, who would also like to snap up Shakhtar Donetsk's Brazilian star Brandao as he seeks to bolster his forward line in the second half of the season, last week identified Larsson, even at the age of 37, as a "true pro" who could spark his side in the second half of the season.

"I hope things will come to fruition in the hours or the days ahead - yes, with Larsson it's possible," Gerets told reporters.

The Swedish international veteran has just finished the season with Helsingborg and Marseille are interested in a six-month loan, rather along the lines of the Swede's arrangement two seasons ago when the former Celtic and Barcelona star had a brief spell with Manchester United.

The French club, fifth in the table six points off leaders Lyon, need a forward badly with Mamadou Niang having fractured his foot. Asked to respond to reports in Turkey linking his side with Galatasaray striker Umit Karan, Gerets said the player would like to join but added he was unsure as to his form.

Beckham set for Milan debut

2009-01-06T08:10:00.003+08:00

David Beckham is set to make his debut for AC Milan in a friendly against Hamburg on Tuesday. Speaking from the squad's Dubai training camp, Carlo Ancelotti, the Milan coach, said:

"He is available and he can therefore play. The past few days he [Beckham] has been working hard and I’ve noticed his commitment to showing that he wants to play for the team."

Beckham has joined AC Milan on a short-term loan from Los Angeles Galaxy as he attempts to extend his England career. LA Galaxy resume competition in March, but AC Milan's first official match of 2009 is Sunday's Serie A encounter against AS Roma.

Ancelotti has indicated that Beckham faces stiff competition from Andrea Pirlo, Clarence Seedorf and Brazilians Ronaldinho and Kaka in his bid to play competitive games for Milan.

"I want to play well instead of just play. I love my team Los Angeles Galaxy but for me this is a great experience. Not everyone has managed to play in what everyone considers the best club in the world. I feel lucky to have this extraordinary chance. The training has been tough but I like working hard. I am learning about Italian football and my team-mates are exceptional." said Beckham

Transfer News : Downing submits transfer request

2009-01-06T07:53:00.005+08:00

Middlesbrough's England winger Stewart Downing has taken a step closer to joining Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur by handing in a transfer request.

Downing's move came just hours after Middlesbrough chairman Steve Gibson insisted the 24-year-old would not be leaving the north-east club during January's transfer window. Although he signed a new five-year contract with Middlesbrough in February last year, Downing has grown increasingly frustrated with what he regards as his home town club's lack of ambition.

"Stewart's been frustrated since the summer, really. When he signed his new contract he was assured that there would be significant investment in the squad. He feels that the club haven't matched those expectations. He feels that the club haven't matched those expectations. He's also frustrated that the team is once again struggling in the Premier League. Obviously as a Middlesbrough lad, he's thought long and hard about the decision to hand in a transfer request, and he also hopes the fans will understand his reasons for doing so." Downing's father, Stewart senior, told Middlesbrough's Evening Gazette on Monday:

Boro are understood to want £15 million (16.5 million euros) for Downing with Spurs opening their bidding at only £11 million. Tottenham's initial offer was branded "derisory" by Boro chief executive Keith Lamb, who also told the News of the World on Sunday that Spurs were guilty of hypocrisy when it came to prising players away from their clubs.

"Who on earth do they think they are? They bleated away when Dimitar Berbatov left for Manchester United in the summer but they sold at top dollar. Then they want to snatch other players for derisory offers and try to unsettle players. That is what has happened here. Their offer is a joke. Why would we sell our best players to our nearest rivals? Stewart is going nowhere," said Lamb.

Highlights : The best of Steward Downing - s0 far

La Liga : Robben stunner sends Real third

2009-01-05T21:52:00.006+08:00

Real Madrid 1 - 0 Villarreal

A brilliant solo goal from Dutch winger Arjen Robben helped Real Madrid close the gap on runaway leaders Barcelona to 12 points as the champions defeated Villarreal 1-0 at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Real coach Juande Ramos handed debuts to French midfielder Lassana Diarra and Dutch international striker Klass-Jan Huntelaar (40 million euros worth of talent) but it was Robben that proved the difference. The former Chelsea man jinked his way past several opponents, leaving Spain star Marcos Senna sprawling on the ground before unleashing an unstoppable 31st minute winner.

Ramos had no hesitation in giving league debuts to Diarra, who he signed for 20 million euros from Portsmouth during the transfer window, and Huntelaar who was a 20 million euro purchase by former manager Bernd Schuster. The Christmas break also allowed Real to recover injured players and they welcomed back Pepe and Gabriel Heinze to strengthen the back four.

Real hit the woodwork on 11 minutes when Robben's deflected shot ricocheted off the top of the crossbar for a corner. The Dutchman was Real's standout player and he scored a terrific goal just after the hour. Cutting in from the right flank Robben faked to shoot - deceiving Spanish international Senna who threw himself to the ground to block, before firing a fierce drive into the top corner with his left foot.

Real Madrid 1 - 0 Villarreal

Sevilla 1 - 1 Osasuna

Also on Sunday, Seville struggled to break down struggling Osasuna in the first half but Jesús Navas broke the deadlock five minutes after the break. Walter Pandiani struck in added time, though, to give the visitors a point.

Sevilla are now level on 32 points with Real Madrid in third place. fifa

Full results;

January 3
Barcelona 3 - 1 Mallorca
Valencia 3 - 1 Atletico Madrid

January 4
Almeria 1 - 0 Real Betis
Athletic Bilbao 1 - 1 Espanyol
Malaga 1 - 0 Sporting Gijon
Real Madrid 1 - 0 Villarreal
Recreativo Huelva 3 - 1 Numancia
Valladolid 0 - 1 Racing Santander
Sevilla 1 - 1 Osasuna
Getafe 1 - 2 Deportivo La Coruna

The FA Cup : United, Villa up for the Cup

2009-01-05T09:42:00.007+08:00

Southampton 0 - 3 Manchester United

English Premier League champions Manchester United made it through to the fourth round of the FA Cup on Sunday. English, European and world champions United ensured there was no repeat of their shock defeat by Southampton in the 1976 FA Cup final with a 3-0 victory away to the struggling Championship side. Earlier,

At St Mary's, United's 18-year-old striker Danny Welbeck followed up to score from close range in the 20th minute after Saints keeper Kelvin Davis had pushed John O'Shea's header onto the crossbar. Southampton's task was then made all but impossible after Matthew Paterson was sent-off shortly before half-time after receiving a straight red card from referee Mike Riley for a studs-up challlenge on Nemanja Vidic.

Manchester United, who've won the FA Cup a record 11 times, went 2-0 up early in the second-half when Nani scored with a penalty awarded by Riley after he ruled the Portugal midfielder's free-kick had been blocked by David McGoldrick's hands. Replays suggested the ball had in fact hit McGoldrick on the back of the head but, by raising his arms, the Saints player clouded the issue. Substitute Darron Gibson made it 3-0 with his first United goal nine minutes from time.

United will now welcome top-flight rivals Tottenham Hotspur to Old Trafford in the fourth round. But Spurs manager Harry Redknapp, previously in charge of FA Cup holders Portsmouth, knows what it takes to win a Cup away to United having overseen Pompey's shock 1-0 quarter-final win at Old Trafford last season.

Southampton 0 - 3 Manchester United Highlights

Gillingham 1 - 2 Aston Villa

Villa were made to work hard for a 2-1 away win against League Two side Gillingham.

Villa saw James Milner mark his 23rd birthday by scoring both their goals at the Priestfield Stadium. But in between Simeon Jackson drew League Two Gillingham, 74 places below Villa, level with a superb shot before Milner's 79th minute penalty, awarded after Ashley Young was fouled in the box, settled the tie.

Villa will be away in the fourth round to lower league opposition in either Cheltenham or Doncaster.

Full results;

January 2
Tottenham Hotspur 3 - 1 Wigan Athletic

January 3
Hartlepool United 2 - 0 Stoke City
Arsenal 3 - 1 Plymouth Argyle
Cardiff City 2 - 0 Reading
Charlton Athletic 1 - 1 Norwich City
Chelsea 1 - 1 Southend United
Coventry City 2 - 0 Kidderminster
Forest Green 3 - 4 Derby County
Hull City 0 - 0 Newcastle United
Ipswich T. 3 - 0 Chesterfield
Kettering 2 - 1 Eastwood Town
Leicester City 0 - 0 Crystal Palace
Macclesfield T. 0 - 1 Everton
Manchester City 0 - 3 Nottingham Forest
Middlesbrough 2 - 1 Barrow
Millwall 2 - 2 Crewe Alexandra
Portsmouth 0 - 0 Bristol City
Queens Park Rangers 0 - 0 Burnley
Sheffield Wednesday 1 - 2 Fulham
Sunderland 2 - 1 Bolton W.
Torquay United 1 - 0 Blackpool
Watford 1 - 0 Scunthorpe United
West Bromwich 1 - 1 Peterborough United
West Ham United 3 - 0 Barnsley
Preston North End 0 - 2 Liverpool

January 4
Gillingham 1 - 2 Aston Villa
Southampton 0 - 3 Manchester United

The FA Cup : Fourth round draw

2009-01-05T08:55:00.002+08:00

Liverpool v Everton
Man Utd v Spurs
Hull or Newcastle v Millwall or Crewe
Sunderland v Blyth or Blackburn
Hartlepool v West Ham
L Orient or Sheff Utd v Charlton or Norwich
Cardiff City v Arsenal
Pompey or Bristol City v Histon or Swansea
Chelsea or Southend v Ipswich
Cheltenham or Doncaster v Villa
WBA or Peterborough v QPR or Burnley
Torquay United v Coventry City
Kettering Town v Fulham
Watford v Leicester or Palace
Derby v Nottingham Forest
Birmingham or Wolves v Boro

The FA Cup 2008/09 Fourth Round Draw Highlights

La Liga : Iniesta return from injury in style

2009-01-04T22:56:00.006+08:00

Barcelona 3 - 1 Mallorca

Spanish international Andres Iniesta marked his comeback from injury in style with a crucial goal as leaders Barcelona defeated Real Mallorca 3-1 on Saturday to continue where they left off before Christmas. Their first victory in 2009 takes Barca 13 points clear of second-placed Sevilla and 15 points in front of champions Real Madrid who play Villarreal on Sunday.

Barca had fallen behind to a 15th-minute strike from Aritz Aduriz, but a ninth goal of the season from Thierry Henry and Iniesta's strike turned the game in their favour. Iniesta, a star of Spain's UEFA EURO 2008-winning squad, had been injured since the beginning of November, but came on as a 67th-minute substitute and netted eight miuntes later after a pass from Eidur Gudjohnsen. Mallorca, struggling above the relegation zone, also had former Liverpool man Josemi sent off late after Iniesta humiliated him with a neat drag back. Yaya Toure completed the scoring at the Nou Camp in stoppage time as he cleverly evaded two challenges before ramming the ball home.

Manager Pep Guardiola chose to leave Argentine Lionel Messi out of the squad with Tuesday's Copa del Rey clash against Atletico Madrid in mind. The absence of the exciting winger was disappointing for the paying spectators but it was a bonus for Belarus winger Alexander Hleb who was given a rare start out wide.

Barcelona 3 - 1 Mallorca Highlights

Valencia 3 - 1 Atletico Madrid

In Saturday's late match, Valencia saw off rivals Atletico Madrid at the Mestalla thanks to two goals from David Silva and a David Villa penalty.

The home side had a string of early chances and took the lead with just over half an hour gone after the referee ruled that Raul Garcia had brought down Ruben Baraja in the area. Villa sent Leo Franco the wrong way to score but replays showed there had been minimal contact between Garcia and Baraja.

Miguel Monteira created a second for Valencia shortly after when he played in Silva, who poked the ball past the goalkeeper, before Uruguayan striker Diego Forlan pulled a goal back from the penalty spot. Silva added a third midway through the second period when he arrowed a powerful left-foot shot past Franco.

Current results;

January 3
Barcelona 3 - 1 Mallorca
Valencia 3 - 1 Atletico Madrid

January 4
Almeria ? - ? Real Betis
Athletic Bilbao ? - ? Espanyol
Malaga ? - ? Sporting Gijon
Real Madrid ? - ? Villarreal
Recreativo Huelva ? - ? Numancia
Valladolid ? - ? Racing Santander
Sevilla ? - ? Osasuna
Getafe ? - ? Deportivo La Coruna

The FA Cup : Spanish duo seal Reds win

2009-01-04T21:35:00.014+08:00

Preston North End 0 - 2 Liverpool

Liverpool made hard work of their Third Round tie with Preston North End at Deepdale but are through thanks to goals from Spanish pair Albert Riera and Fernando Torres.

After Albert Riera had given Liverpool an 25th-minute lead with a screaming left-foot drive, it looked as if Rafael Benitez's team would go on and rack up a few goals but Preston, twice winners of the world-famous Cup competition, stormed back and gave the Premier League leaders a real scare in the last half-hour of the match. The game missed out on an obligatory FA Cup romance story after former Liverpool striker Neil Mellor was substituted in the second half, but Preston were intent on making the headlines with their quality of football alone. Sean St Ledger ran away in celebration with 17 minutes to go, believing he had equalised, but Preston's celebrations were cut short when Jon Parkin was spotted by the linesman pulling Jamie Carragher to the ground on the goalline.

Liverpool breathed a sigh of relief and Benitez decided to bring on Fernando Torres in a bid to kill off the match. He showed touches of the brilliance that has made him a favourite with the Liverpool faithful since his move from Atletico Madrid in 2007, while Steven Gerrard had a couple of attempts from distance. But in truth, they failed to match their first half dominance as Preston began piling forward in search of the elusive equaliser.

With seconds left on the clock, however, Liverpool broke free with Gerrard and Torres racing into the Preston half unmarked. The England midfielder carried the ball into the area with only Lonergan to beat and squared for his team mate to slide home his first ever FA Cup goal. Liverpool deserved their win but will know they were made to fight by Irvine's men for a place in the hat for Sunday's draw.

Preston North End 0 - 2 Liverpool Highlights

Arsenal 3 - 1 Plymouth Argyle

Arsenal made a winning start to 2009 as Robin Van Persie took the armband in the absence of Fabregas and Almunia and drove his side into the Fourth Round.

The Dutchman scored twice, including a rare header, and also played his part in creating Arsenal's other goal as they were pushed all the way by a spirited Plymouth side. Clearly Arsene Wenger's half-time words resonated with his players as captain Van Persie scored within seconds of the restart, heading home from a Samir Nasri corner. Within four minutes the lead was doubled as Van Persie was again heavily involved as the Dutchman's cross was turned into his own net by David Gray.

Samir Nasri came close to grabbing a third goal with five minutes remaining, the impressive Larrieu was caught out of goal and the French midfielder chipped a lofted effort that was cleared from the line. Moments later it was three and the captain was again the man on the scoresheet. Van Persie was played through by Ramsey and looked to lift the ball over the onrushing 'keeper, when Larrieu got a hand to the effort the Arsenal forward reacted quicker and smashed the ball home in off the bar.

Arsenal 3 - 1 Plymouth Argyle Highlights

Manchester City 0 - 3 Nottingham Forest

Second-tier strugglers Forest, who only appointed Billy Davies as their new manager on Friday, struck twice before half-time to pile the pressure on City boss Mark Hughes, who did the Midlands side the honour of playing a near full-strength side, even though Brazil midfielder Robinho was rested.

Nathan Tyson struck from outside the box in the 38th minute to put Forest, who have slipped down the standings since losing to Tottenham in the 1991 FA Cup final, ahead. And they were 2-0 up when Wales striker Robert Earnshaw scored from inside the six-yard box. Forest's victory was completed 15 minutes from time when Joe Garner seized on a poor City throw-in to lash the ball past Joe Hart.

Chelsea 1 - 1 Southend United

Southend also shocked one of English football's cash-rich teams in Chelsea by grabbing an injury-time equaliser in a 1-1 draw away to the League's second-placed side.

Southend held out for over half an hour at Stamford Bridge, before falling behind when Salomon Kalou headed in a Frank Lampard corner. However, the third-tier side drew level in the 90th minute as Peter Clarke marked his 27th birthday with a goal.

Other results;

January 2
Tottenham Hotspur 3 - 1 Wigan Athletic

January 3
Hartlepool United 2 - 0 Stoke City
Arsenal 3 - 1 Plymouth Argyle
Cardiff City 2 - 0 Reading
Charlton Athletic 1 - 1 Norwich City
Chelsea 1 - 1 Southend United
Coventry City 2 - 0 Kidderminster
Forest Green 3 - 4 Derby County
Hull City 0 - 0 Newcastle United
Ipswich T. 3 - 0 Chesterfield
Kettering 2 - 1 Eastwood Town
Leicester City 0 - 0 Crystal Palace
Macclesfield T. 0 - 1 Everton
Manchester City 0 - 3 Nottingham Forest
Middlesbrough 2 - 1 Barrow
Millwall 2 - 2 Crewe Alexandra
Portsmouth 0 - 0 Bristol City
Queens Park Rangers 0 - 0 Burnley
Sheffield Wednesday 1 - 2 Fulham
Sunderland 2 - 1 Bolton W.
Torquay United 1 - 0 Blackpool
Watford 1 - 0 Scunthorpe United
West Bromwich 1 - 1 Peterborough United
West Ham United 3 - 0 Barnsley
Preston North End 0 - 2 Liverpool

January 4
Gillingham ? - ? Aston Villa
Southampton ? - ? Manchester United
thefa.com

Selangor win Charity Shield after victory over Kedah

2009-01-04T11:21:00.004+08:00

A first-half horror show from national goalkeeper Mohd Helmi Eliza allowed Selangor to lift the Charity Shield with a stylish 4-1 victory over 10-man Kedah at the Darulaman Stadium here last night.

A brace from skipper Mohd Amri Yahyah and strikes from Zameer Zainun and Safee Sali allowed K. Devan to deliver a silverware in just his first competitive match as Selangor coach. But the Red Giants, who ended a nine-match winless streak against the Canaries with last night’s win, had the bungling Helmi to thank for the victory. The win also earned Selangor three points for their 2009 Super League challenge.

The treble champions fell behind after just three minutes following a costly mistake by Kedah skipper A. Victor. The experienced defender hauled down national striker Safee right on the edge of the box. Stung by the early goal, the Canaries went in search of an equaliser but were let down by their toothless front-line led by new signing Azrul Ahmad.

Instead, it was the Red Giants who looked more dangerous every time they broke away to make quick counter-attacks. And it did not come as a surprise when the visitors went two-up after 33 minutes. Youngster Zameer was given acres of space on the right flank to make a long-range attempt at goal. To the Selangor player’s delight, Helmi made a hash of the save and allowed the ball to trickle over the line.

Helmi, who came under fire for his mistakes during Malaysia’s 2-3 defeat to Vietnam during last month’s Suzuki Cup, was again at fault for Selangor’s third goal just two minutes later. He came off his line to collect a swinging free-kick from R. Surendren, but was beaten to the ball by the nippy Amri who headed into an unguarded net. Helmi’s confidence was clearly shattered, and it was only a matter of minutes before Kedah coach Mohd Azraai Khor substituted him with Al-Hafiz Hamzah.

The home side came out with their guns blazing in the second half, with Khyril Muhymeen and Afif Amiruddin both coming close to beating Mohd Hamsani Ahmad in the Selangor goal. But Kedah’s comeback hopes were dashed in the 54th minute after striker Mohd Farizal Rozali was sent off by referee Subkhiddin Salleh for planting his studs into Hamsani’s face after the keeper dived to make a save. Selangor immediately capitalised on their one-man advantage. Safee made it 4-0 in the 58th minute when his shot from the edge of the box hit the upright and sailed into goal.

Midfielder Khyril’s strike for Kedah in the dying minutes proved to be nothing more than a face-saving gesture in front of the sell-out 30,000 crowd. TheStarOnline

Veron named South American Player of the Year

2009-01-03T23:17:00.003+08:00

Argentine playmaker Juan Sebastian Veron was officially chosen as the best footballer in South America of 2008, an award that is handed out by Uruguayan newspaper El Pais.

Veron, the captain of Estudiantes de La Plata, beat Juan Roman Riquelme of Boca Juniors by three votes. Riquelme recently claimed the Argentine Apertura Championship with his club. Both players are likely to be taken into consideration by Argentine national team coach Diego Maradona for the restart of the 2010 World Cup qualifiers in March. Veron admitted that such an award is recognized around the world, and that he is very proud of the achievement.

"One is recognized not only by the people at a local level, but throughout the footballing world," Veron told radio Provincia. "This prize arrives in a special moment of my life, because my objective is to always be the best in what I do, and I've always thought in this way."

In third place in the voting was Paraguayan striker Salvador Cabanas of Club America of Mexico, with 19 votes less than Veron. Cabanas won the award in 2007. Internacional playmaker Andres D'Alessandro finished in fourth place, after having played a key role as his club lifted the Copa Sudamericana for the first time. Fifth place went to Liga Deportiva Universitaria goalkeeper Jose Francisco Cevallos, who was detrimental in his team's Copa Libertadores triumph.

Two Transfer News from Manchester City

2009-01-03T23:06:00.003+08:00

NEWS 1 : Manchester City have confirmed the signing of Wayne Bridge from Chelsea for an undisclosed fee. The England full-back travelled to Manchester on Friday night to undergo a medical and discuss the personal terms of a three-year contract believed to be worth around £80,000 a week.

Bridge, 28, who emerged in the professional game at Southampton when Hughes was coming to the end of his playing career, had been reluctant to leave Stamford Bridge despite failing to hold down a regular place in the team. Since joining Chelsea in 2003 for £7 million, the defender had been restricted to just 74 League appearances. It had not helped his cause having to compete against international colleague Ashley Cole for the same position at club level, a problem he will not have to face at Eastlands.

The capture of Bridge will be seen as the first significant move by Hughes towards him strengthening his squad. In the meantime, Hughes admits securing Bridge will be a major boost and he is convinced that the player can quickly rediscover his best form on a more consistent basis, not to mention regain his place in the England squad under Fabio Capello.

Hughes said:"He's still a successful player. He's an England international at one of the top four clubs in the country. I played alongside him at Southampton and know first hand what an outstanding player he is.He's had a relative success, but you come to a point in your career where you want to be playing week in and week out."

NEWS 2 : Manchester City are reported to have made an £8 million bid for Arsenal defender Kolo Toure as they continue their January spending. City agreed a fee with Chelsea for left back Wayne Bridge on Friday, and it seems they are eager to continue bolstering their back line with the services of 27-year-old Toure.

According to the Mirror, Hughes is anxious to complete the signing by the end of the weekend, anticipating a quick deal in light of speculation that the Ivory Coast international has become unsettled at the Emirates. Toure has fallen down the pecking order following a series of injuries and a loss of form, and is no longer a regular in the starting line up. The promise of first-team football on offer at the Eastlands could be reason enough to persuade Toure to head north.

Arsene Wenger however, has denied any suggestion that a deal will be done, insisting that despite past incidents, Toure will remain an Arsenal player.

"We spoke about it with him and I think he has changed his mind," he said. "The situation is that he is a player who has a two-and-a-half-year contract and will remain with us."

The FA Cup : Spurs the first team in fourth round

2009-01-03T13:47:00.004+08:00

Tottenham Hotspur became the first team to reach the fourth round of this year's FA Cup.

Harry Redknapp's men edged to a 3-1 win over Barclays Premier League rivals Wigan Athletic at White Hart Lane. After a tight and even first half, the home side took the lead from the penalty spot on 52 minutes.

Fraizer Campbell was brought down by goalkeeper Richard Kingson as he chased a through-ball by Gareth Bale and Roman Pavlyuchenko stroked home the spot-kick sending the keeper the wrong way. Spurs doubled their lead after 76 minutes when Jamie O'Hara's 30-yard shot came back off a post and was diverted in by the head of Luka Modric on the ground.

However the visitors grabbed a lifeline two minutes from time when Henri Camara forced home from close range following a shot by Maynor Figueroa. As Wigan pushed forward in search of an equaliser, they were caught on the break in stoppage time when Pavlyuchenko grabbed his second goal with a beautifully struck shot following a good run by Didier Zokora.

Four transfer news from Old Trafford

2009-01-03T00:30:00.010+08:00

NEWS 1: Premier League champions Manchester United have completed the signings of Serbian footballers Zoran Tosic and Adem Ljajic from Partizan Belgrade. Tosic and Ljajic both attacking midfielders are United's first signings of the January transfer window.

Tosic, 21, will sign with immediate effect and wear the No 14 shirt, while an agreement is in place for 17-year-old Ljajic to remain with Partizan for the rest of 2009. Having personally pleaded for the 21-year-old Tosic's work permit at a hearing in November, manager Sir Alex Ferguson had been frustrated that the move was being held up by the Serbia winger's pay demands and number of agents involved in the deal.

There had been fears that Premier League rivals could hijack the move, but the acquisition was completed within 24 hours of the transfer window opening Thursday. Tosic, who has made 12 international appearances since his debut against Finland in 2007, including at the Beijing Olympics, will join immediately as United looks to close the seven-point gap on Premier League leaders Liverpool with two games in hand.

Ljajic has made just 10 league appearances for Partizan Belgrade since his debut in July, although he underwent a trial at Old Trafford in October when the Serbian club's general manager confirmed Manchester United had been in contact "for some time now". The 17-year-old right-sided midfielder has been nicknamed "Little Kaka" after impressing in Champions League qualifiers for Partizan Belgrade.

It has been suggested United could end up paying around £17 million for the duo, although that figure is likely to be based heavily on future success and the club have refused to comment on the size of an initial payment.

NEWS 2 : Cristiano Ronaldo has treated Alex Ferguson to some New Year cheer by resolving to stay at Manchester United. The moody Portugal winger, 23, said:

“I want to stay here. I feel at home here. I feel very happy here.”

But before boss Fergie starts popping the champagne he should be warned that only one in four people actually stick to their New Year resolutions. And Ronaldo is still very much a target for Real Madrid. There have even been claims that the Spaniards already have a deal to sign him in the summer.

Ron tried to engineer a move to Real last year and accused United of treating him like a ‘slave’. But he insists the disruption was down to the media. He said:

“There’s always speculation, not just about me but about the future of players all around the world. People were speaking about me this summer and what people are saying now is not true. Who says that is a liar. I want to stay here.”

NEWS 3 : Alex Ferguson has offered Leeds a package worth up to £10million for teenage midfield star Fabian Delph.

Manchester United boss Fergie made his move after Fulham steamed in with a £6m bid for the 19-year-old sensation, who is being tipped as the new Paul Scholes. Delph is a combative midfielder with an eye for goal like Scholes.

He has been a regular in the Leeds side this term after captaining the reserves. Fergie has matched the Fulham offer of £6m up front but has added extra incentives related to appearances and trophies that would push the deal close to £10m.

And the Old Trafford boss has also told Leeds they can take two of his own promising youngsters on loan as they bid to get their League One promotion train rolling again. He is prepared to let midfielders Darron Gibson and Rodrigo Possebon switch temporarily to Elland Road.

NEWS 4 : Manchester United forward Carlos Tevez has insisted he is determined to stay at Old Trafford on a permanent basis. The Argentinian is in the second year of a loan deal with the Premier League champions, but that agreement expires at the end of the season and United are yet to offer him a full-time contract.

The 24-year-old has been reduced to a bit-part role this season following the close-season arrival of Dimitar Berbatov, fuelling reports that he is ready to leave England. But the former West Ham United player is confident he will remain with Sir Alex Ferguson's side.

"I am not preoccupied about my future," Tevez told the Daily Mail. "My instincts are to stay with the club and in the next week or so I think there will be more contact with regards to sorting out my contract. That is what we've been told. It is up to the club. Other clubs have asked about me but I see my future at United"

With Real Madrid believed to be ready to pay the £32m transfer fee required to sign Tevez, it would be easy for him to quit, but the forward is determined to fight for his place.

"It has been a complicated season for me, there is no point denying that. I have not been able to get as many minutes on the field as I would like because the quality of the forwards at the club is incredible. It is not easy for forwards to get into this team and I have suffered. But that does not make me want to leave. I have no urge to run away."

Two 'Champions League Final 2008' stars under fire

2009-01-01T12:03:00.010+08:00

Manchester United are facing the real prospect of losing Carlos Tevez in this transfer window.

The club have still not made his loan deal permanent despite assurances in the summer it would be completed. Now Real Madrid are ready to make their move for the Argentine, 24. Agent Kia Joorabchian, who owns the rights to the striker, will be prepared to do business with Inter Milan also interested.

United have Tevez on a two-year loan with a verbal agreement for a £32million transfer. But United are not sure he is worth that in a deflated market and Joorabchian fears United will pull out in the summer.

As it is, Tevez is unhappy at having to play second fiddle to Dimitar Berbatov.

MEANWHILE, Didier Drogba has been hit with a £100,000 fine by Chelsea for criticising the club in SunSport.

The whining Ivory Coast striker has angered team-mates and Blues officials by claiming he did not get the support he deserves. Now he has been docked a week’s wages after the club ran out of patience with his constant moans.

Drogba claimed the club failed to support him when his grandmother died this year. He also confessed he did not exactly rush back from his knee injury and criticised manager Phil Scolari’s team selection.

His comments have infuriated Scolari and chief executive Peter Kenyon, particularly as the club laid on a private jet so he could return to Africa to be with his grandmother.

Drogba, 30, was yesterday ordered to explain his outburst and told he would lose a week’s wages under an internal disciplinary procedure. And that could spell the end of his 4½-year stay at The Bridge.

BPL : An own goal take Villa into fourth place

2008-12-31T11:34:00.002+08:00

Aston Villa leapfrogged Arsenal into fourth place as an own-goal by Kamil Zayatte gifted them a 1-0 victory over Hull City in the last Premier League match of the year.

Zayatte turned his attempted clearance from Ashley Young's cross past goalkeeper Boaz Myhill to extend Villa's unbeaten sequence to eight, while Hull must be staring anxiously at the bottom three as they have only won once in their last 11 games. They looked to be on course to salvage a point in time added on when referee Steve Bennett awarded them a penalty for handball but after consulting with a linesman he correctly rescinded his decision as former Real Madrid target Young had not handled the ball, though he did raise his arm as the ball went over the bar.

His Hull counterpart Phil Brown - who had been so infuriated by the abject display of his players in the first-half against Manchester City last Friday when they were losing 4-0 at half-time he gave them their half-time talk on the pitch - accepted that his side had stepped up to the plate. fifa

Hull City 0 - 1 Aston Villa Highlights

BPL : Dimitar Berbatov keeps United in title hunt

2008-12-30T10:27:00.007+08:00

Dimitar Berbatov drifted through 69 minutes of Manchester United's home game with Middlesbrough on Monday before scoring the only goal to keep the champions in touch with the Premier League leaders.

The Bulgarian striker appeared an uninterested observer for much of a freezing night at Old Trafford, but when the visiting defence failed to properly clear a Michael Carrick cross he was well placed near the penalty spot to steer it back past Ross Turnbull for the decisive goal.

United began the game ten points behind Liverpool, albeit with three games in hand, and though they made most of the running in the first half they were short of spark. Cristiano Ronaldo had several half-chances but sent them either wide or straight at the keeper, while centre back Nemanja Vidic headed wide from a corner.

Middlesbrough, who had not won in their previous seven games as they slid towards the relegation zone, got a little more adventurous after the break, with Afonso Alves and Tuncay Sanli both going close. United also had plenty of shots, but they were generally tame and the Old Trafford fans were getting edgy, as well as cold.

They were warmed 21 minutes from time, however, when Berbatov cracked the winner from 12 metres.

"He's a marvellous player," Ferguson said of his summer signing from Tottenham Hotspur. "He's taken the goal very well at a crucial moment. At that stage you start to get concerned." fifa

Manchester United 1 - 0 Middlesbrough Highlights

Berbatov named Bulgarian Player of the Year for fifth time

2008-12-30T01:30:00.000+08:00

Manchester United FC forward Dimitar Berbatov has been named Bulgarian Player of the Year for the fifth time in his career, equalling the record of Hristo Stoichkov.

The 27-year-old took the accolade with 283 points to add to the titles he picked up in 2002, 2004, 2005 and 2007. PFC Levski Sofia goalkeeper Georgi Petkov came second with 162 points while PFC Slavia Sofia midfielder Blagoy Georgiev finished third with a tally of 122. During 2008, Berbatov won the first major trophy of his career after lifting the English League Cup with Tottenham Hotspur FC and then joined UEFA Champions League winners Manchester United on 1 September for €38m.

Berbatov, who has scored 41 goals in 68 appearances for Bulgaria, said:

"There is something special about winning this honour for a fifth time. The most important thing for me is to be healthy and to fulfil my aims step by step." Bulgarian legend Stoichkov was on hand to present the award and the former Bayer 04 Leverkusen forward added: "I was really happy to receive it from Stoichkov. It was a great gesture from him."

In the night's other awards, Levski's Georgi Ivanov was voted forward of the year in the Bulgarian A PFG while Aleksander Aleksandrov of PFC Cherno More Varna took the prize in the midfield category. CSKA Sofia's Kiril Kotev was proclaimed top defender, his team-mate Pavel Vidanov most improved player and Petkov named No1 goalkeeper.

Reds Captain Steven Gerrard arrested

2008-12-30T01:05:00.003+08:00

Liverpool footballer Steven Gerrard arrested and spends night in cells after fracas. England footballer Steven Gerrard was among six men being questioned by police after officers were called to a Merseyside bar. The Liverpool captain was arrested after an early morning disturbance on Monday at licensed premises in Bold Street, Southport.

A 34-year-old Southport man was taken to hospital with facial injuries, which were not thought to be serious. The Liverpool FC star spent the rest of the night in the cells and was still being quizzed by police this morning. Officers were called to the Lounge Inn at around 2.30am. Police later detained six people nearby on Lord Street. Four men, aged 33, 31, 29 and 19, all from Huyton, Gerrard, 28, from Formby, and an 18-year-old from Litherland were arrested on suspicion of Section 20 assault.

The alleged incident happened 12 hours after Liverpool crushed Newcastle United 5-1 at St James's Park on Sunday. Gerrard scored two goals in a brilliant display that helped the Reds extend their lead at the top of the Premiership to three points. A Liverpool FC spokesman said the club would not be commenting about the alleged incident. It is still unclear why trouble started or if the group of six men knew the victim.

A police spokeswoman said:

"We are investigating an assault in the early hours of the morning. Officers attended a licensed premises where they detained six people on suspicion of Section 20 assault. They are still being questioned."

BPL : Five star Reds make three point clear at top

2008-12-30T00:22:00.008+08:00

Newcastle United 1 - 5 Liverpool

Liverpool maintained their grip on first place the Premier League table with a 5-1 win against a toothless Newcastle United at St. James' Park on Sunday.

Reds captain Steven Gerrard scored twice, and had had it not been for Newcastle goalkeeper Shay Given, the hosts could have been on the wrong end of a double-figure disaster after being completely outclassed. The Reds grabbed a three-point advantage over Chelsea.

It was Gerrard who broke the deadlock in the 31st minute when he drilled Yossi Benayoun's pass in off the post. Given had no opportunity to reprise his heroics and the Irishman was stranded again five minutes later when defender Sami Hyypia was given the freedom of the Newcastle penalty area to head home Gerrard's corner. These were torrid times for Newcastle but Canada international defender David Edgar reduced the arrears on the stroke of half-time by heading in Danny Guthrie's corner kick.

Liverpool's third goal, five minutes after the restart, had an element of luck about it, with referee Mark Halsey failing to spot Lucas's handball. But Dutch international Ryan Babel tapped in from five yards despite being surrounded by several Newcastle players. Gerrard grabbed his second from Lucas's astute through ball in the 66th minute. When substitute Xabi Alonso wrapped things up with a well taken penalty 13 minutes from time with Gerrard off the field, after his fellow replacement David Ngog had been brought down by Edgar, Liverpool could celebrate heading into 2009 on top of the Premier League.

Newcastle United 1 - 5 Liverpool Highlight

Fulham 2 - 2 Chelsea

Clint Dempsey's last-gasp equaliser dented Chelsea's English Premier League title hopes as hosts Fulham came back to earn a 2-2 draw in an exciting west London derby at Craven Cottage on Sunday.

After hitting the opener, the United States international headed in his second goal of the game in the 89th minute to cancel out two Frank Lampard strikes and leave Chelsea three points behind leaders Liverpool, who beat Newcastle 5-1.

Midfielder Dempsey put the Cottagers ahead in the 10th minute, capitalising on some sloppy defending. Lampard levelled in the 50th minute following a Fulham defensive blunder and the England international scored what looked to be a winning free-kick in the 72nd minute. Dempsey,however, nodded a goal from a corner two minutes from time.

Fulham 2 - 2 Chelsea Highlight

Arsenal 1 - 0 Portsmouth

William Gallas' goal nine minutes from time enabled Arsenal to reclaim fourth place in the Premier League with a 1-0 win over Portsmouth at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.

The victory saw the Gunners move ahead of Aston Villa, who do not play until Tuesday, on goals scored, although they remain ten points adrift of leaders Liverpool. The win also ended a run of three successive drawn games that had also seen captain Cesc Fabregas ruled out until March by injury. Portsmouth, managed by former Arsenal captain Tony Adams, frustrated Arsenal for long periods but had no answer to Gallas' 81st-minute header.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger made three changes from the side that drew 2-2 at Villa on Boxing Day. Alex Song missed out through injury but Robin van Persie and Kolo Toure found themselves on the bench as Gael Clichy, Nicklas Bendtner and Emmanuel Adebayor returned, with the latter having served a one-match ban following his sending off in last week's 1-1 draw with Liverpool. Adams also made changes following his side's 4-1 defeat at home to West Ham. Papa Bouba Diop and David Nugent came in for Glen Little and Jermain Defoe, the former Spurs striker, who were named as substitutes. fifa

Arsenal 1 - 0 Porthmouth Highlight

Current results;

Newcastle United 1 - 5 Liverpool
Arsenal 1 - 0 Portsmouth
Bolton Wanderers 0 - 1 Wigan Athletic
Everton 3 - 0 Sunderland
Fulham 2 - 2 Chelsea
West Bromwich Albion 2 - 0 Tottenham Hotspur
West Ham United 2 - 1 Stoke City
Blackburn Rovers 2 - 2 Manchester City
.......
Manchester United ? - ? Middlesbrough
Hull City ? - ? Aston Villa

Suzuki Cup : Vietnam, the CHAMPIONS

2008-12-29T00:35:00.003+08:00

It could not have been a more dramatic finish at the My Dinh Stadium tonight. With time up, including the three added minutes, Vietnam's number one player, Le Cong Vinh, sent the entire nation into a frenzy when he headed in the winner to deliver the prestigous AFF Suzuki Cup 2008 to his country for the very first time in the history of this competition. Vietnam, making only their second final appearance, were awarded a freekick in the added time when Suree Sukha brought down Cong Vinh on the left edge of the box. Skipper Phan Tan Vai Em let loose the freekick which Cong Vinh cooly glanced in to provide Vietnam with a fairy-tale like finish.

Tonight's victory ended the despair Vietnam suffered exactly 10 years ago when they were beaten by Singapore in the 1998 then Tiger Cup final. But today, in front of over 40,000 fans, the hosts, led by Portuguese coach Henrique Calisto, gave Vietnam their first ever major football title. The tears of joy streamed down the faces of the fans, players and officials. Even some journalists wept openly as they celebrated Vietnam's finest hour. The fans stayed back until the very end and their cheers reached a crescendo when AFF President Tengku Tan Sri Dato Seri Ahmad Rithaudeen along with Vietnam Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dzung.

In what was the best ever final of this series, Vietnam and Thailand battled right from the start. Their players threw everything they had as they pushed forward in search of goals. Vietnam especially did not waste any time and went out in full flight for the early goal. It took them just 10 minutes to take their first crack at goal. Doan Viet Cuong let loose a sizzler which whizzed over the crossbar.

Thailand replied with their first look in the 14th minute but Suchao Nutnum's header fell short. Vietnam continued to pile on the pressure but as it turned out, it was Thailand that broke the deadlock. From a cross, Teerasil Dangda leapt up high and did well to beat goalkeeper Duong Hong Son to the ball, levelling the two-leg aggregate score at 2-2. The fans got behind their team and cheered them on and Vietnam responded by contiuing to attack in droves. Le Tan Tai and Cong Vinh had their chances but were just off the mark.

Both Thailand and Vietnam had their chances but nothing came out of them. With time running out, Thailand brought in super-sub Ronnachai Rangsiyo for Teeratep Winothai, who almost doubled the score in the 59th minute. As the clocked ticked away, it looked almost certain that the game was headed into the dreaded extratime. Then, Cong Vinh, Vietnam's most expensive player, proved his worth with a sensational winner. suzukicup.com

AFF Suzuki Cup 2008 Honours;

CHAMPIONS: Vietnam
RUNNERS-UP: Thailand
FAIRPLAY AWARD: Thailand
TOP GOAL SCORER: Teerasil Dangda (Thailand)
MOST VALUABLE PLAYER: Duong Hong Son (Vietnam)

Winning four trophies are unrealistic - Alex Ferguson

2008-12-28T20:14:00.002+08:00

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson believes winning four more trophies this season is not a 'realistic' target.

The Red Devils are currently playing catch-up in the defence of their Premier League title and are also in contention for more silverware. Derby County await in the semi-finals of the Carling Cup, Inter Milan are last 16 opponents in the UEFA Champions League and United start out in the FA Cup against Southampton next weekend.

United have already scooped the Club World Cup this month, but Ferguson is not getting carried away by dreams of a further four trophies this season.

"To win one major trophy is unusual but nice all the time," said Ferguson in the Daily Star. "But there is no chance of winning all four competitions we are left in this season. It is appetising and we will have that opportunity if we are still in them all come March and April, but it is not realistic.

United's Rio Ferdinand will be out for 10 days

2008-12-27T21:10:00.004+08:00

Rio Ferdinand faces a 10-day lay-off after being forced to pull out of Manchester United's victory over Stoke City with a recurrence of a back injury.

The centre-back was named on the team-sheet at the Britannia Stadium but was withdrawn minutes before the Boxing Day kick-off when the problem flared up and he was deemed unfit to start the game. Ferdinand's place was taken by young Northern Ireland defender Jonny Evans and the England international has now been ruled out of the rest of the Christmas and New Year programme.

"We have to get to the root of this because he has had this problem too many times now," said United manager Sir Alex Ferguson. "We have to get to the bottom of it. It will be a week to 10 days and then he should be okay."

His injury means Ferdinand will miss Monday's visit of Middlesbrough to Old Trafford and the FA Cup third round tie at Southampton the following Sunday. The defender, who would almost certainly have been rested for the first leg of the League Cup semi-final with Derby County on Jan 7, will now target the visit of Chelsea to Old Trafford four days later for his return.

Sunderland appoint 'caretaker' Ricky Sbragia as manager

2008-12-27T21:07:00.002+08:00

Sunderland have appointed Ricky Sbragia as manager after his successful spell as caretaker. The Scot, 52, has been handed an 18-month contract by chairman Niall Quinn as the reward for his four games in charge, which have brought two victories a 4–0 win over West Brom and a 4–1 thumping of Hull, a draw and a single defeat, and that away to Manchester United.

"Ricky Sbragia is a thoroughly professional football person," said Quinn. "We have been taken aback by how easily he has slotted into the managerial role and are really heartened by his intelligent approach in dealing with the players and the day-to-day rigours of the job.

Sbragia succeeds Roy Keane, who resigned earlier this month with the club in 18th place in the Premier League. Results under Sbragia's caretaker charge have lifted the club out of the relegation zone and into 14th, though they remain only two points clear of the bottom three. Prior to rejoining the club last year, Sbragia had spent eight years as a youth and reserve-team coach with the Black Cats after joining from York in 1994.

BPL : Liverpool stay on top in a Boxing Day

2008-12-27T20:34:00.010+08:00

Premier League leaders Liverpool were still looking down on their rivals after a 3-0 win over Bolton Wanderers during today's Boxing Day programme.

Albert Riera volleyed Liverpool into a sixth-minute lead at Anfield when he got on the end of a Steven Gerrard corner. Liverpool captain Gerrard also played a key role in making it 2-0, the England midfielder's pass to Robbie Keane the prelude to a powerful shot. Keane then took his personal tally to three goals in two games when he turned in a Yossi Benayoun cross.

Chelsea, who had briefly gone top after an early kick-off victory, remained a point behind in second place after beating basement club West Bromwich Albion 2-0 at Stamford Bridge.

First-half goals from Didier Drogba and Frank Lampard sent Chelsea on their way to a comfortable victory. It was the Ivorian's second goal of the season and his first in the Barclays Premier League this term.

Reigning champions Manchester United, in their first domestic match since winning the FIFA Club World Cup in Japan, stayed seven points off top spot, with two games in hand, after winning 1-0 away to Stoke City.

United had to wait until seven minutes from time for their goal at the Britannia Stadium. It was only after Stoke right-back Andy Wilkinson was sent off for a second bookable offence that Carlos Tevez scored for United. United manager Sir Alex Ferguson said victory left his side well-placed to maintain their title-bid.

Stoke City 0 - 1 Manchester United Highlight

But it was a frustrating day for the other member of the 'big four' as Arsenal surrendered a two-goal lead in stoppage-time in a 2-2 draw away to Aston Villa, the Midlanders retaining their place amongst the leading quartet.

Villa hit the woodwork three times in the first half only for Arsenal to open the scoring through Brazil midfielder Denilson in the day's late kick-off. The visitors were 2-0 up at Villa Park nine minutes after half-time when a brilliant exchange of passes between Abou Diaby and Emmanuel Eboue ended with the France midfielder beating Brad Friedel. Villa, however, grabbed a lifeline when England midfielder Gareth Barry scored a 65th minute penalty after Gabriel Agbonlahor was brought down by William Gallas. Arsenal, not for the first time this season, could not see out the game with Villa's Zat Knight scoring in stoppage time.

Aston Villa 2 - 2 Arsenal Highlight

Earlier, Manchester City moved out of the bottom three with a spectacular 5-1 win over Hull City. Two-goals apiece from Felipe Caicedo and Robinho at Eastlands helped Manchester City end a run of six games without a win in all competitions. Caicedo put City ahead in the 15th minute when he turned in Stephen Ireland's cross. The Ecuadorian had his and City's second 12 minutes later, with Ireland again the provider. Ireland also laid on City's third, releasing Robinho. The Brazil forward made it 4-0 in the 36th minute with a picture-book goal after a superb cross from Shaun Wright-Phillips. Craig Fagan pulled one back for Hull before Ireland got the goal his play deserved eight minutes from time.

Full results;

Stoke City 0 - 1 Manchester United
Chelsea 2 - 0 West Bromwich Albion
Portsmouth 1 - 4 West Ham United
Tottenham Hotspur 0 - 0 Fulham
Liverpool 3 - 0 Bolton Wanderers
Manchester City 5 - 1 Hull City
Middlesbrough 0 - 1 Everton
Sunderland 0 - 0 Blackburn Rovers
Wigan Athletic 2 - 1 Newcastle United
Aston Villa 2 - 2 Arsenal

Arshavin on his way to Europe

2008-12-25T20:30:00.003+08:00

Highly-rated Russian forward Andrei Arshavin could finally be on his way to Europe after his agent said the Zenit St Petersburg player was almost certain to be sold in the transfer window.

Arshavin has been linked to Arsenal, Tottenham and Real Madrid and, according to a BBC website report on Tuesday his agent, Dennis Lachter, said Arshavin and Zenit had agreed that he should find a new club in January.

"He will definitely move in January or the player and club will lose money. Zenit and Andrei understand that it is time for them to part from each other." Lachter said.

Arshavin, 27, was linked with Tottenham last summer following his impressive performances at Euro 2008, and this week Zenit general director Maxim Mitrofanov was quoted as saying his price tag was STG20 million (RM102 million) and they hoped Arsenal would make an offer. But Lachter denied reports that the player had visited both teams' training grounds on a recent trip to London.

"That is not true," he said. "I was in London and he was there too, but the only reason he was there was to shoot an advert for a company he has a contract with. "I was at the Tottenham training ground, but it looks like someone saw me there and made the connection -- he's never been there, either to Arsenal or Tottenham."

Lachter also denied reports that the player had said he was only interested in playing for Barcelona and was uninterested in England. -- AFP

Suzuki Cup : Le Cong Vinh the hero in win over Thailand

2008-12-25T04:17:00.004+08:00

Le Cong Vinh made all the difference for Vietnam when he set up one and then grabbed the other for them to beat hosts Thailand 2-1 in the first leg final of the AFF Suzuki Cup 2008 which was played at the Stadium Rajamangala.

In a match which the pundits had already felt should got to the Thais, the visiting Vietnamese side played a patient game as they defended as a team before scoring both their goals just before the break off Nguyen Vu Phong in the 42nd minute and then Cong Vinh two minutes later. Thailand replied through substitute Ronnachai Rangsiyo in the 75th minute.

In front of well over 30,000 fans and also the attendance of Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vechacheeva spurred Thailand to go into the early attacks as they welcomed the return of Sutee Suksomsit from injury where in the eight minute, his freekick came off Vietnam defender Le Phuoc Tu. A minute later, a corner from the left saw Nataporn Phanrit heading straight to Vietnam keeper Duong Hong Son as Sutee was again in the thick of the action four minutes later with a header which was parried out of play.

Vietnam was content to play the waiting game and following and as the frustration on Thailand grew, the visitors went ahead in the 40th minute when Cong Vinh broke through for a cross which was put into the back of the net by Vu Phong. And two minutes later, Cong Vinh finally scored his first goal in the competition when he picked up a pass from Nguyen Viet Thang to slam home.

Thailand started the second half stronger and created several chances on a trot with Surat Sukha unleashing a cracker in the 65th minute which was blocked by Hong Son. The introduction of Ronnachai for the ineffective Teerathep Winothai turned the game for Thailand when he scored Thailand’s first goal in the 75th minute with his very first touch following a cross from the left from Natthapomg Samana. suzukicup.com

Next fixtures,
28/12/08 19:00 Final Leg 2
Vietnam v Thailand

Capten Fabregas out for three to four month

2008-12-24T09:17:00.003+08:00

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger revealed that Gunners captain Cesc Fabregas will be out of action for four months after suffering a partial rupture of his medial knee ligament in Sunday's draw against Liverpool.

The Spaniard suffered the injury in a challenge with Liverpool's Xabi Alonso and limped off at half time at the Emirates Stadium. Wenger initially hoped Fabregas would only be out for three weeks but scans confirmed the Spain midfielder won't play again before April.

"The news is not good. It will take three to four months, we count four. He will be working hard to come back earlier but I count four months." Wenger said.

The loss of his recently installed skipper and creative talisman is a massive blow to Wenger as he tries to end Arsenal's four-year wait for a trophy. He was already short of experienced midfielders after losing Mathieu Flamini, Gilberto Silva and Alexander Hleb in pre-season, while Tomas Rosicky has been injured for the whole of the current campaign.

"We will miss him, of course, but how much is difficult to say," Wenger said."We have to find a way and we want to find a way to compensate the fact that he is not on the pitch to give everyone a bit more. I'm sure we can deal with it. When he comes back he can help us get over the line in the final months. I believe we are able to do it."

A bid for Zenit St Peterburg's Russian midfielder Andrei Arshavin is one possibility for Wenger, who is yet to decide who will replace Fabregas as captain. Spanish goalkeeper Manuel Almunia wore the armband when Fabregas came off against Liverpool and would be the leading candidate. fifa

BPL : Everton hold ten-man Chelsea

2008-12-23T08:58:00.000+08:00

Ten-man Chelsea failed to go top of the English Premier League, after being held to a goalless draw away to Everton in a match in which their captain, John Terry, was sent off.

This result at Goodison Park moved Chelsea to within a point of leaders Liverpool - Everton's city rivals - and ended a run of 11 straight away league wins for the Blues. Chelsea played 55 minutes of the game a man down, after England skipper Terry received a straight red card from referee Phil Dowd for a late and dangerous tackle on Everton midfielder Leon Osman.

But, despite the centre-half's dismissal ten minutes before half-time, Everton - without a recognised striker because of injury - could not score, even though they came close, and the draw left them seventh in the table. fifa

See the highlight;

Full results;

Blackburn Rovers 3 - 0 Stoke City
Bolton Wonderers 2 - 1 Portsmouth
Fulham 3 - 0 Middlesbrough
Hull City 1 - 4 Sunderland
West Ham United 0 - 1 Aston Villa
.......
West Bromwich 2 - 1 Manchester C.
Newcastle United 2 - 1 Tottenham H.
Arsenal 1 - 1 Liverpool
.......
Everton 0 - 0 Chelsea

Suzuki Cup : Vietnam in final after knockout Lions

2008-12-22T23:19:00.004+08:00

Striker Nguyen Quang Hai sent Vietnam into their second final in the history of this regional tournament when he netted the winner in the 75th minute of the second leg AFF Suzuki Cup semifinal battle at the National Stadium tonight.

Quang Hai’s crucial strike sent defending champions Singapore out of the competition and destroyed their dreams of a record fourth title. Vietnam, who were held in Hanoi in the first leg, have set the stage for final showdown against their arch rivals and three-time champions Thailand on Dec 24 and Dec 28. The famous Kallang roar suddenly fell silent as the fans watched in disbelief. But the 50,000 spectators, mainly Singaporean fans, quickly threw their support behind the Lions again in the hope that they would hit the target.

Singapore, who were in control for the better half of the game, tried desperately but the all important goal never came. They in fact, almost equalised on at least two occasions but was stopped by goalkeeper Duong Hong Son, who along with Quang Hai were the heroes of the Vietnam team tonight.

The victory for Vietnam today came at a high price as defender Doan Viet Cuong was given the sack after picking up a second booking in injury time. An overzealous attack on Singapore’s Daniel Bennett led to his exit and more importantly a place in the final. For Vietnam, the win may finally heal the wounds of the 1998 final when Singapore defeated them 1-0. That was Singapore’s first-ever title and also the last time Vietnam appeared in the final. suzukicup.com

Manchester United - king of football

2008-12-22T14:32:00.010+08:00

After Barclays Primere League, UEFA Champions League and FIFA Club World Cup, what next?

"They've proved that they're capable of beating anybody, They have so much quality - and they play as a team. They're unstoppable. They knew it was going to be their day from the beginning." Sir Bobby Charlton

LDU de Quito 0 - 1 Manchester United Highlights

For more picture of Manchester United in FIFA Club World Cup Final, visit here

Lal Liga : Henry help Barcelona extend lead

2008-12-22T14:13:00.006+08:00

Thierry Henry scored the winner as Barcelona came from behind to beat Villarreal 2-1 away and go ten points clear at the top of La Liga on Sunday.

Cani had given Villarreal the lead just after the restart in a pulsating match at the Madrigal, bursting clear to chip Victor Valdes. Barca's Mali midfielder Seydou Keita levelled with a brave header soon after, and France striker Henry volleyed the winner in the 67th minute from Xavi's run and cross. Barca played the last 15 minutes with ten men after defender Gerard Pique was shown a second yellow card, but they hung on for the win and have now beaten all five of their closest challengers.

Pep Guardiola's side have 41 points from 16 games, which is the side's best start to a league campaign, beating the previous record set under Frank Rijkaard in the 2004/05 season when they achieved 39 points at the same point. They also claimed the honorary title of 'winter champions' with three matches left to the mid-point of the season.

See the highlight;

Sevilla were held to a 0-0 draw away to struggling Real Mallorca but climbed into second place on 31 points. Manolo Jimenez's side, who were knocked out of the UEFA Cup during the week, put in a listless display and Luis Fabiano headed their best chance against the bar in the first half.

Atletico Madrid are third with 30 points, above Valencia on goal difference after their 3-2 win at Espanyol on Saturday, when Valencia lost 1-0 at Real Madrid. The champions are a point back in fifth ahead of Villarreal on goal difference, and two points in front of seventh-placed Deportivo La Coruna, who sank Recreativo Huelva 4-1 at home. fifa

Sere A : Last league matches in 2008

2008-12-22T13:55:00.008+08:00

Juventus cut the gap with Serie A leaders Inter Milan back to six points with a hard-fought 3-1 win at Atalanta on Sunday. Third-placed AC Milan also racked up an important victory ahead of the mid-season break, thrashing Udinese 5-1 at home with January loan signing David Beckham watching in the stands.

Juve's Alessandro Del Piero and Nicola Legrottaglie put the visitors 2-0 up before former Juve striker Christian Vieri pulled one back with a header just after the break. Determined Atalanta searched for an equaliser, but Amauri's bullet header eight minutes from time ended their hopes. "It was a well-deserved and hard-earned victory," Juve coach Claudio Ranieri told reporters. "I knew it wouldn't be easy away to Atalanta."

Marco Marchionni was offside when he crossed for Del Piero's opener just like Maicon was when he scored the 83rd-minute winner in Inter's fortunate 2-1 victory at Siena on Saturday. Injury-ravaged Milan, three behind Juve, quickly took control of an extremely open contest in the late game.

See the highlight;

Brazilian forward Alexandre Pato scored twice from close range and set up compatriot Kaka for another tap-in with Antonio Di Natale also netting for Udinese in a frantic first 18 minutes. Clarence Seedorf slid home after Andrea Pirlo's free-kick hit the post just before the interval and Kaka blasted in from 20 metres early in the second period.

Beckham, who is joining Milan for two months from Los Angeles Galaxy to stay in contention for an England place, appeared on the pitch before kickoff to wave to the San Siro crowd. He then took his place in the stand alongside wife Victoria.

See the highlight;

Fiorentina moved up to fourth thanks to Riccardo Montolivo's crisp strike in a 1-0 win at Sampdoria. The Florence side were helped up the table by suspension-hit Napoli losing 1-0 at struggling Torino and dropping to fifth. Torino are now a point above the drop zone.

Mid-table AS Roma, who had won five league games in a row after a poor start, lost 3-2 at Catania with Japanese forward Takayuki Morimoto confidently scoring twice for the Sicilians. Roma drew 1-1 at Catania on the final day of last season when they lost the title to Inter.

Serie A resumes from the mid-season break on 10 and 11 January. fifa

Full results;

Lazio 1 - 0 Palermo
Siena 1 - 2 Inter Milan
.......
Atalanta 1 - 3 Juventus
Cagliari 1 - 1 Reggina
Catania 3 - 2 AS Roma
Chievo 0 - 1 Genoa
Lecce 0 - 0 Bologna
Sampdoria 0 - 1 Fiorentina
Torino 1 - 0 Napoli
AC Milan 5 - 1 Udinese

BPL : Liverpool held by ten-man Arsenal

2008-12-22T13:28:00.007+08:00

Arsenal 1 - 1 Liverpool

Leaders Liverpool stayed eight points clear of Arsenal in the race for the Premier League title after the two sides fought out an epic 1-1 draw at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.

Arsenal, reduced to ten men after 62 minutes when Emmanuel Adebayor was sent off for a second yellow card after raising an elbow to Alvaro Arbeloa, continued to cause Liverpool problems throughout. But in the end, the league leaders were well worth the point that keeps them ahead of Chelsea at the top of the table. Robin van Persie put Arsenal ahead with an excellently-taken goal after 24 minutes, before Robbie Keane, who has struggled to find his form for Liverpool since his move from Arsenal's arch-rivals Tottenham in the off-season, equalised three minutes before half-time.

Although Adebayor's controversial red card gave Liverpool the numerical supreriority, they were forced to defend resolutely to thwart Arsenal in the second half. The result left Liverpool top with 39 points from 18 matches, two more than Chelsea who play Everton on Monday.

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez was forced to stay at home and watch the match on television following surgery for kidney stones, leaving his assistant Sammy Lee in charge of the side. However, he would have been pleased with the way his men started the match, despite the absences of striker Fernando Torres (hamstring) and Javier Mascherano (flu).

Newcastle United 2 - 1 Tottenham Hotspur

Damien Duff came off the bench to fire Newcastle United to a last-minute victory over Tottenham Hotspur.

The Republic of Ireland midfielder had only been on the pitch for two minutes when he combined superbly with fellow substitute Mark Viduka before beating goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes. Spurs midfielder Luka Modric cancelled out Charles N'Zogbia's 11th-minute opener 17 minutes later, but it was Duff who had the final say.

N'Zogbia managed to reach Given's clearance before Assou-Ekotto, and although the defender recovered to hold him up, the midfielder turned smartly to fire right-footed past Gomes. However, the visitors were back on terms a minute later when Dawson's strong challenge on Ameobi saw him lift the ball over the top to Modric, and as the home defence hesitated with Pavlyuchenko working his way back from an offside position, the Croatian ran in unopposed to beat Given.

Duff, who had replaced Enrique two played a superb one-two with Viduka and slid a left-foot shot past Gomes to snatch an invaluable win in the final minute of normal time.

West Bromwich 2 - 1 Manchester C.

Roman Bednar's injury-time header earned bottom-placed West Bromwich Albion their first win in 11 matches - and increased the pressure on Manchester City manager Mark Hughes.

Luke Moore's first goal for the Baggies had given them the lead before City substitute Felipe Caicedo levelled six minutes from time - only for Bednar to have the final say. fifa

Current results;

Blackburn Rovers 3 - 0 Stoke City
Bolton Wonderers 2 - 1 Portsmouth
Fulham 3 - 0 Middlesbrough
Hull City 1 - 4 Sunderland
West Ham United 0 - 1 Aston Villa
.......
West Bromwich 2 - 1 Manchester City
Newcastle United 2 - 1 Tottenham Hotspur
Arsenal 1 - 1 Liverpool
.......
Everton ? - ? Chelsea

AC Milan unveil David Beckham to complete their veteren team

2008-12-21T22:35:00.005+08:00

David Beckham impressed the locals from the start when he was unveiled as an AC Milan player last night, by speaking Italian at his first press conference.

Dressed in a blue jumper, jeans, mirrored sunglasses and a scarf against the chill he smiled and waved at the small group of fans who had gathered to welcome him. After landing at Milan's Malpensa airport he headed off to a private clinic for a medical, which he reportedly passed with flying colours.

As he left the airport he said:

"I am honoured to be here and to play for one of the most successful clubs in the world. I have played for the biggest club in England, the biggest club in Spain and now I want to play for the biggest club in Italy."

Beckham also was keen to emphasise that his stay in Milan would be strictly football.

"Fashion had nothing to do with coming to Milan," he said. "The red and black shirt and the history of the club took me here."

You can see the press conference here;

A glorious year for Manchester United

2008-12-21T22:12:00.005+08:00

Ten-man Manchester United have won the FIFA Club World Cup, thanks to Wayne Rooney's 73rd minute goal over Liga de Quito in Yokohama.

However that fails to tell the story of an entertaining final, which saw Nemanja Vidic dismissed four minutes after the interval for an elbow on Claudio Bieler. United were given a wake-up call as early as the fourth minute. Patrice Evra fouled Bieler on the edge of the penalty area and the resulting free-kick from Alejandro Manso almost caught United napping, with Jairo Campos unable to divert the ball past Edwin van der Sar from close range. Save for a few long-range efforts from Bieler and Luis Bolanos, which whizzed wide of the United No1's right hand post, the first half was dominated by the Red Devils who were unlucky not to be ahead at the interval.

Their first chance came after ten minutes when Nemanja Vidic's long ball was well controlled by Rooney, who unleashed a ferocious volley which Jose Cevallos was forced to push away at full stretch. The England international also tested the keeper five minutes later when his low strike was turned behind for a corner. Cevallos was in fine form and pulled off an outstanding save to deny Carlos Tevez whose header from Cristiano Ronaldo's cross seemed to be destined for the net. An audacious lob from Rooney hit the roof of the net, rather than the target and Park Ji-Sung should have at least tested the keeper when he was presented with an opportunity from close range.

Rooney, Carrick and Tevez all had chances from distance which went wide - and on the stroke of half-time, United went close again when Cristiano Ronaldo's cross from the right was hit wide. The dynamics of the game change completely at the beginning of the second half when Vidic was sent off. The Serbian fouled Bieler just inside the United half and then elbowed him in the face. Referee Ravshan Irmatov had a full view of the incident and had no hesitation in brandishing the red card. Tevez was sacrificed for Jonny Evans as Sir Alex Ferguson reshuffled, but despite the numerical disadvantage, United still played positively. Rooney forced Cevallos into two comfortable saves, but if the end product was lacking - the intent was admirable.

Rooney finally broke the deadlock in the 73rd minute with a fine goal. Michael Carrick slipped the ball to Cristiano Ronaldo who spotted and found the striker lurking to his left. He made no mistake, firing a low shot across the body of Cevallos and inside the far post. As expected, the goal provoked a deluge of pressure from Liga de Quito - and once again van der Sar pulled off a truly outstanding save to deny Manso. The Argentinian must have thought he had equalised when his right-footed screamer was heading on target, but once again, he sprung at full stretch to tip the ball over. That proved to be the last action of an entertaining match in a year which has seen Manchester United crowned champions of England, champions of Europe and champions of the world. FIFA Club World Cup

Suzuki Cup : Thailand booked their 5th final appearance

2008-12-21T21:52:00.004+08:00

Thailand made their fifth appearance in the final of the AFF Suzuki Cup 2008 when they beat Indonesia 2-1 in the second leg semi finals for an aggregate 3-1 victory here at Stadium Rajamangala.

But the win was not an easy walk on the park for the Thais where they had to come back from being a goal down in the first half before scoring twice after the break for the well-deserved victory. The win for Thailand came at a price where they will have to play the first leg final on 24 Dec 2008 at the same venue of the Stadium Rajamangala without the influential Suchao Nutnum, who picked up his second yellow card in the game tonight.

It was Indonesia who started stronger on the night when they opted to put striker Bambang Pamungkas on the bench and utilized more presence at the centre of the park. The early pressure saw Thailand back pedaling for much of the first quarter of an hour as Isnan Ali sent in a swerving freekick which was cleared by Suree Sukha. And while a header from Talaohu Abdul Mushafry came off Nataporn Phanrit in the eighth minute, there was no stopping Indonesia from taking the lead barely a minute later.

A quickly taken corner from Ismed Sofyan allowed defender Nova Arianto to put the ball back into the net past a rooted Thai keeper Kittisak Rawangpa as the aggregate stood at 1-1. But Thailand was just not playing as well as they should in front of close to 40,000 fans where their best chance in the before the break came in the 26th minute when Teerathep Winothai's attempt came off the crossbar.

The second half saw Indonesia sticking to their defensive plan as Thailand's frustration grew, so did tackles and the pushing and shoving which resulted in a minor altercation at the hour mark between Thai captain Datsakorn Thonglao and Indonesia midfielder Syamsul Bachri. Thailand upped the pressure and in the 64th minute, a cross from Suree saw Teerasil Dangda jumping high for the header which unfortunately went straight to Indonesian custodian Markus Harison.

But the goal finally came in for the Thais in the 72nd minute when off a Teerasil cross, Teerathep blasted in the equalizer from the far post to put Thailand on equal terms on the night but on a 2-1 advantage on aggregate. Two minutes to the end, substitute Ronnachai Rangsiyo made it a 2-1 win for the Thais in what was their first home game in Bangkok when he stabbed home a melee. suzukicup.com

Serie A : Inter extend their lead to nine points

2008-12-21T20:02:00.000+08:00

Inter Milan stretched their lead at the top of the Serie A table to nine points, for a day at least, after a crucial 2-1 victory at Siena on Saturday.

Brazilian full-back Maicon was the hero with both goals, either side of an equaliser from Moroccan Houssine Kharja, as the reigning three-time champions won for the eighth league match in a row. Inter have not dropped points since October. They will take a lead of between six and nine points into the three-week winter break, depending on how Juventus fare on Sunday at Atalanta.

The visitors took the lead on 34 minutes. Before that only Zlatan Ibrahimovic had struck at goal in anger but his free-kick skidded well wide. But soon after the half hour mark Siena's defenders were punished for ball-watching at a corner. Mario Balotelli sent over a pea-roller of a cross and Maicon managed to steal in and poke the ball home from inside the six-yard box despite being surrounded by several Siena defenders.

Siena did not let their heads drop and equalised a minute before the break as Cristiano Del Grosso crossed from the left. Kharja threw himself full length in front of Maxwell to nod home from close range. Inter came out after the break with more purpose and Ghana midfielder Sulley Muntari curled an effort just wide of the upright. On 58 minutes Ibrahimovic came within inches of giving Inter the lead as he crashed a shot against the cross-bar.

Siena were dangerous too. Substitute Massimo Maccarone should have done better with his close-range header than send it high over the bar. The hosts were made to pay for that miss as Maicon grabbed the winner seven minutes from time. Centre-back Ivan Cordoba tried his luck from distance but his shot took a deflection and landed at the feet of Maxwell, who released his Brazilian compatriot with a clever flick, leaving Maicon to apply a chipped finish over Gianluca Curci. Siena could have come away with something but poor finishing cost them again as Abdulkader Ghezzal skied his left-foot shot from six yards.

Meanwhile, Lazio won for the first time since November 9 in a 1-0 success over Palermo to move up to sixth. The early season leaders had gone five matches without a win but overcame their Sicilian opponents thanks to a strike from club captain Tommaso Rocchi, who nipped in front of his marker to clip home Frenchman Mourad Meghni's near post cross. fifa

La Liga : First league win for Juande Ramos

2008-12-21T17:14:00.004+08:00

An early goal for Gonzalo Higuain was enough to give Real Madrid a 1-0 victory over Valencia on Saturday and the first win for Juande Ramos in La Liga as coach. Real bounced back from the 2-0 defeat in the clasico against Barcelona last weekend to score after just three minutes with Higuain firing home after good work from Arjen Robben.

Robben was the key player in the early stages of the match and a constant threat, setting up Rafael van de Vaart who hit the post and then he himself saw a shot cleared off the line after he had rounded the goalkeeper. Valencia gradually came back into the match and keeper Iker Casillas made a series of stops from David Villa.

In the second half Real, were hanging on with Casillas parrying a Ruben Baraja strike on to a post but the pressure eased mid-way through the half following the expulsion of Carlos Marchena for his second yellow card. Real had chances to add to their lead but Higuain and Juan Guti in particular missed excellent chances.

See the highlight;

Meanwhile, Atlético are eight points shy after they were made to wait for their triumph in Espanyol. Maxi Rodríguez set Los Colchoneros on their way with a mere seven minutes on the clock, but Sergio Sánchez put the home side back on level terms in the 58th minute and the scoreline remained unchanged until Sergio Agüero made Atlético's pressure pay with nine minutes left. Maxi then provided the cushion of a third goal in stoppage time and the visitors needed it too, with substitute Valdo responding almost immediately for Espanyol. uefa

Current results;

Real Madrid 1 - 0 Valencia
Espanyol 2 - 3 Atletico Madrid
.......
Deportivo La Coruna ? - ? Recreativo Huelva
Mallorca ? - ? Sevilla
Numancia ? - ? Valladolid
Osasuna ? - ? Getafe
Racing Santander ? - ? Malaga
Sporting Gijon ? - ? Almeria
Villarreal ? - ? Barcelona
Real Betis ? - ? Athletic Bilbao

BPL : Blackburn's new life under Sam Allardyce

2008-12-21T16:44:00.005+08:00

Blackburn Rovers 3 - 0 Stoke City

South Africa striker Benni McCarthy scored twice as Blackburn Rovers began life under new manager Sam Allardyce with a 3-0 win at home over Stoke City on Saturday.

The victory was only Rovers's fourth in 18 English Premier League matches and came three days after former Bolton and Newcastle boss Allardyce replaced the sacked Paul Ince. Despite a win, which ended a run of six straight defeats, Rovers remained in the relegation zone.

McCarthy put Rovers ahead at Ewood Park with a ninth-minute penalty after Ibrahima Sonko fouled Morten Gamst Pedersen. Jason Roberts added a second after Stoke defender Ryan Shawcross diverted a cross from Brett Emerton into the striker's path. McCarthy, on his 100th appearance for Rovers, made it 3-0 before the half-hour mark after being played in by forward Roberts.

West Ham United 0 - 1 Aston Villa

Aston Villa moved into the top three of the Barclays Premier League after a slice of good fortune for James Milner earned them victory over West Ham United.

The winner at Upton Park came in the 78th minute after Milner's cross deflected in off Lucas Neill, with three points allowing Martin O'Neill's men to overtake Manchester United in the table. It may be one for the dubious goals panel, but it mattered little to Milner in a week where Fabio Capello suggested he would be the next Villa youngster to get an England call-up. O'Neill's young English players have given Villa fans real hope of breaking into the top four - but an American veteran in goal is also playing his part. Brad Friedel produced a string of saves to keep the scores level when the Hammers threatened through Craig Bellamy and Carlton Cole.

West Ham remained fourth from bottom although the Londoners will drop into the relegation places if fellow strugglers Manchester City do not lose away to basement club West Bromwich Albion on Sunday. West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola named an unchanged starting line-up following last week's 1-1 draw at the Italian's former club, Chelsea. Martin O'Neill, the Aston Villa manager, reverted to a more familiar line-up after seeing a shadow side lose 3-1 at Hamburg in midweek in a UEFA Cup game where nothing but pride had been at stake.

Fulham 3 - 0 Middlesbrough

Fulham midfielder Jimmy Bullard showed the west London club what they would be missing if he is allowed to leave by scoring the opening goal in his side's 3-0 win over Middlesbrough on Saturday.

Bullard is trying to negotiate an extension to his current contract, which expires at the end of next season. But talks have reached a stalemate and Cottagers boss Roy Hodgson hinted on Friday that could lead to the player being sold before he loses value. But judging Bullard's inspirational performance at Craven Cottage, it would be a foolhardy move to let him leave.

Bullard opened the scoring just before half-time and goals after the break from Danny Murphy, who slotted home a penalty, and American midfielder Clint Dempsey secured a sixth home win of the season to move Fulham up to eighth in the Premier League. Middlesbrough have gone six matches without a win and the spectre of a relegation battle is hanging over Gareth Southgate's team.

Current results;

Blackburn Rovers 3 - 0 Stoke City
Bolton Wonderers 2 - 1 Portsmouth
Fulham 3 - 0 Middlesbrough
Hull City 1 - 4 Sunderland
West Ham United 0 - 1 Aston Villa
.......
West Bromwich ? - ? Manchester C.
Newcastle United ? - ? Tottenham H.
Arsenal ? - ? Liverpool
.......
Everton ? - ? Chelsea

UCL : Finalist 07/08 face Italian job

2008-12-19T23:36:00.005+08:00

Matches will be played over two legs on 24/25 February and 10/11 March. In the ceremony staged at UEFA headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland, the eight winners of the group-stage pools were paired with teams that finished second. No clubs from the same association could be pitted together, while sides that met in the group stage were also kept apart. The draw for the remaining rounds will be made on 20 March, with this season's final taking place in Rome on 27 May.

First leg : 24 & 25 February 2009
Second leg : 10 & 11 March 2009

Chelsea FC (ENG) v Juventus (ITA)
Villarreal CF (ESP) v Panathinaikos FC (GRE)
Sporting Clube de Portugal (POR) v FC Bayern München (GER)
Club Atlético de Madrid (ESP) v FC Porto (POR)
Olympique Lyonnais (FRA) v FC Barcelona (ESP)
Real Madrid CF (ESP) v Liverpool FC (ENG)
Arsenal FC (ENG) v AS Roma (ITA)
FC Internazionale Milano (ITA) v Manchester United FC (ENG)
uefa.com

UEFA Cup : 08/09 Round of 32 draw

2008-12-19T23:15:00.007+08:00

The sides who finished first in each UEFA Cup section were drawn against one of the third-ranked teams from another group while the runners-up in each section were paired with one of the eight clubs joining the competition from the UEFA Champions League group stage. The group winners and runners-up will play their second leg at home, while sides from the same association were kept apart in the draw. The format is two-legged knockout ties with the first legs being played on 18/19 February and the second legs on 26 February. No teams were seeded in the draw for the last 16.

First leg : 18 & 19 February 2009
Second leg : 26 February 2009

Round of 32 draw

Paris Saint-Germain FC (FRA) v VfL Wolfsburg (GER)
FC København (DEN) v Manchester City FC (ENG)
NEC Nijmegen (NED) v Hamburger SV (GER)
UC Sampdoria (ITA) v FC Metalist Kharkiv (UKR)
SC Braga (POR) v R. Standard de Liège (BEL)
Aston Villa FC (ENG) v PFC CSKA Moskva (RUS)
KKS Lech Poznań (POL) v Udinese Calcio (ITA)
Olympiacos CFP (GRE) v AS Saint-Etienne (FRA)
ACF Fiorentina (ITA) v AFC Ajax (NED)
Aalborg BK (DEN) v RC Deportivo La Coruña (ESP)
Werder Bremen (GER) v AC Milan (ITA)
FC Girondins de Bordeaux (FRA) v Galatasaray AŞ (TUR)
FC Dynamo Kyiv (UKR) v Valencia CF (ESP)
FC Zenit St. Petersburg (RUS) v VfB Stuttgart (GER)
Olympique de Marseille (FRA) v FC Twente (NED)
FC Shakhtar Donetsk (UKR) v Tottenham Hotspur FC (ENG)

UEFA Cup : Final group match, Sevilla knock-out

2008-12-19T22:50:00.006+08:00

Racing Santander 3 - 1 Manchester City

Real Racing Club's victory was not enough for the Spanish Liga side to reach the UEFA Cup Round of 32 while Manchester City FC won Group A despite the defeat.

Racing were on top for large periods in Santander and were three goals up by the 54th minute thanks to strikes from Jonathan Pereira, Óscar Serrano and Juan Valera. Substitute Felipe Caicedo scored City's consolation goal in added time yet it was events in the French capital, where Paris Saint-Germain FC scored two late goals, which proved Racing's undoing, the Ligue 1 club pipping Racing to third place on goal difference.

The visitors received a let off in the eighth minute when a poor clearance from goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel let in Mohamed Tchite but he directed his effort wide. Javier Garrido then sent a free-kick for City way over the crossbar though they were soon behind when Schmeichel failed to deal with a routine cross from Óscar and Pereira finished from close range. Soon after, Pereira tested Schmeichel from distance before City responded when Elano released Pablo Zabaleta, though his effort went high and wide. A minute later, the hosts extended their lead as Óscar started and finished a flowing move. The midfielder found Pereira with a long ball, took the return in his stride and sent a shot beyond Schmeichel.

Racing were cutting City open with ease and Tchite tested Schmeichel with a volley in the 36th minute following a cross from Pedro Munitis. The third arrived ten minutes after the break when City failed to cut out another centre from Munitis, Marcano headed on and Valera scored from close range. Three should have became four soon after but somehow Tchite, allowed to continue after colliding with Schmeichel, put his effort past the post with the goal unguarded. City managed to breach a well-organised Racing backline in added time when Caicedo headed in a cross from Zabaleta.

Sampdoria 1 - 0 Sevilla

Substitute Jonathan Bottinelli struck the only goal of the game as UC Sampdoria beat Sevilla FC in Genoa to book their spot in the last 32 of the UEFA Cup and eliminate the two-time winners.

Bottinelli bundled in Reto Ziegler's free-kick with 15 minutes remaining as Sampdoria, who had started the game two points behind Sevilla, claimed one of the three qualifying places in Group C. With VfB Stuttgart beating group winners R. Standard de Liège, the Spanish side's hopes of claiming a third UEFA Cup title in four years were shattered as they became only the second team in the five-year history of the group stage to be knocked out with six points, Rangers FC having suffered the same fate in 2004/05.

There was nothing to separate the two sides in the first half, although Sevilla's Andrés Palop was the slightly busier of the goalkeepers, making a couple of decent saves. His first came in the ninth minute when he dived full length to turn away Mirko Pieri's effort from the edge of the box and then, just before the break, the 35-year-old was called upon once again to deny Paolo Sammarco after clever passing had cut through the Sevilla defence.

The hosts finally got the breakthrough they had been threatening as Bottinelli managed to force the ball in with his midriff following Ziegler's deflected free-kick. Sevilla laid siege to the Italian side's goal, but Diego Capel spurned their best chance when he shot wide of the far post after breaking free down the left.

Tottenham Hotspur 2 - 2 Spartak Moscow

Tottenham Hotspur FC flirted with disaster at White Hart Lane, but recovered from going 2-0 down against FC Spartak Moskva to ease into the UEFA Cup Round of 32.

Goals from Luka Modrić and Tom Huddlestone helped Tottenham make amends in the second half after Artem Dzyuba struck twice before the interval to revive the Russian side's hopes of progressing. Had Spartak kept a clean sheet, Tottenham would have been out of the competition on goals scored away from home, with NEC Nijmegen winning 2-0 against Udinese Calcio in the evening's other Group D game.

Michael Laudrup's Spartak rocked the hosts in the first half, with huge centre-forward Dzyuba causing endless problems. His backheel allowed Vladislav Ryzhkov to fire at Heurelho Gomes from the edge of the area, and then took advantage after Gilberto misjudged a pass from Gareth Bale, stealing in to put the ball between the goalkeeper's legs and score. Dzyuba's second goal ten minutes later, in the 33rd minute, was also one Tottenham would rather forget as he tapped the ball past Didier Zokora, skipped beyond the Tottenham defence, rounded Gomes and put the ball into an empty net. Things could easily have been worse for the English side, with Gomes then parrying a deflected Dzyuba effort to deny the striker a first-half hat-trick.

Tottenham emerged chastened after the break, with Stipe Pletikosa forced to make a save from Fraizer Campbell's header, but Dzyuba was to have another chance to score – firing straight at Gomes after Zokora's clearance went directly to him – before Modrić beat fellow Croatian international Pletikosa from substitute Aaron Lennon's pull-back. Huddlestone headed the leveller on 74 minutes, with Bale delivering a fine cross after David Bentley had sent the Welshman free down the left.
Full results;

Group A
Paris S.G. 4 - 0 FC Twente Enschede
Racing Santander 3 - 1 Manchester City

Group B
Benfica 0 - 1 Metalist Kharkiv
Olympiakos Piraeus 4 - 0 Hertha BSC

Group C
Sampdoria 1 - 0 Sevilla
Stuttgart 3 - 0 Standard Liege

Group D
NEC Nijmegen 2 - 0 Udinese
Tottenham Hotspur 2 - 2 Spartak Moscow

Group E
AC Milan 2 - 2 Wolfsburg
Portsmouth 3 - 0 SC Heerenveen

Group F
Ajax Amsterdam 2 - 2 Slavia Prague
Hamburger SV 3 - 1 Aston Villa

Group G
Club Brugge 0 - 1 FC Copenhagen
Saint-Etienne 2 - 2 Valencia

Group H
Deportivo La Coruna 1 - 0 Nancy
Feyenoord Rotterdam 0 - 1 Lech Poznan
uefa.com

Five star United booked final action

2008-12-18T23:52:00.006+08:00

Manchester United booked their place in the final of the FIFA Club World Cup Japan 2008 after a thrilling 5-3 victory over Gamba Osaka at the International Stadium in Yokohama. Incredibly, six of the goals came in the final 16 minutes as both sides produced a feast of attacking football.

Osaka, full of energy and enthusiasm, started the game on the front foot and they they set the tone for an entertaining first half in the fourth minute when Tomokazu Myojin fired in low shot from 25 yards which forced Edwin van der Sar into a smart save. However, the capacity crowd roared louder when Cristiano Ronaldo hit a shot straight at Yosuke Fujigaya two minutes later. A sign that the Asian champions would be no pushovers came in the 13th minute when Ryuji Bando broke clear and found himself with just van der Sar to beat. However, the veteran Dutchman spread himself well to keep the scores level. Osaka too were given a let-off when Carlos Tevez failed to square the ball to the unmarked Ryan Giggs or Nani, who were bearing down on goal.

The frantic pace of the opening minutes eventually died down, which suited United who were able to keep possession and pick their passes to greater effect. As the pressure increased, Tevez's cross-field pass found Cristiano Ronaldo on the right and he fired a goalbound effort which took a deflection off Osaka skipper Satoshi Yamaguchi, giving the European champions a corner. Ryan Giggs delivered an inch-perfect ball from the right and Serbian international Nemanja Vidic rose highest to head home, provoking thousands of cameras to flash around the stadium as the Red Devils celebrated.

Anderson had a great opportunity to make it 2-0 five minutes later, but headed Cristiano Ronaldo's centre wide from close range. This prompted a period of dominance from the European champions, but Akira Nishino's side were not going to give up without a fight. Lucas fired over from 25 yards and then Bando latched on to a loose pass from Rio Ferdinand, but rushed his shot which failed to trouble van der Sar. With half-time approaching, Tevez turned quickly in the box and had a shot deflected wide. Another Giggs corner from the right produced the same result - a United goal. This time it was Cristiano Ronaldo who met the cross to the delight of the fans who had been cheering his every move in the game so far.

Buoyed by the two goal lead, the English champions started the second half well and could have taken the lead when a determined run from Nani almost created a golden opportunity for Giggs, but his cross was cleared. Minutes later, Paul Scholes saw a shot blocked with no signs of United resting on their advantage. Tevez had the ball in the net in the 50th minute after a delightful through ball from Evra, but he was adjudged to be in an offside position. Osaka then had a great opportunity when Endo's free-kick was superbly palmed away by van der Sar and Bando blazed the loose ball over.

Four goals in five minutes is an unusual occurrence at a FIFA tournament, but that is what happened between the 74th and 79th minutes. First Masato Yamazaki got on the end of a good move from Osaka and curled the ball past Van der Sar and into the net from 20 yards. United replied instantly when substitutes Rooney and Darren Fletcher combined to good effect. Fletcher threaded a defence-splitting pass which the striker latched on to, before clipping the ball home. Then Van der Sar spilled an Endo shot which almost fell into the path of Hideo Hashimoto, before Gary Neville made a desperate clearance.

The fourth came when Evra put in a fine cross for Fletcher to head home and another United goal followed a minute later when Rooney produced a wonderful finish. Osaka grabbed two consolations in the final minutes. The first came when Endo converted a penalty following Neville's handball in the box and in injury time Hashimoto scored arguably the goal of the night when he fired a thunderbolt past Van der Sar from the right hand side of the box.

Sir Alex Ferguson must now prepare his side for a final showdown with Liga de Quito on Sunday, while Osaka will now meet Pachuca in the match for third place. FIFA Club World Cup

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UEFA : Milan miss out on top spot

2008-12-18T15:15:00.006+08:00

AC Milan 2 - 2 Wolfsburg

VfL Wolfsburg twice came from behind to earn a draw against AC Milan and seal top spot in UEFA Cup Group E. As group's top side, Wolfsburg are now guaranteed a tie against a third-placed side from another group in Friday's last 32 draw while seven-times European champions Milan must face a third-place finisher from the UEFA Champions

The Bundesliga club started the game with three wins from as many matches in the section yet they were soon behind when Massimo Ambrosini headed in a corner from Clarence Seedorf. The teams then traded goals early in the second half as Italian international Cristian Zaccardo levelled, only for Pato to restore the Rossoneri's lead 49 seconds later. Wolfsburg's efforts were rewarded, though, nine minutes from time when a shot from Jacek Krzynówek was deflected in by fellow substitute Mahir Sağlık to consign Milan to second place in the section.

Milan suffered an early setback when the injured Philippe Senderos was replaced by Kakha Kaladze after nine minutes and shortly after, Christian Gentner had a shot blocked by Dida. At the other end, Gianluca Zambrotta's effort was saved by Diego Benaglio though Milan soon forged ahead when Ambrosini headed powerfully in after 17 minutes.

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Portsmouth 3 - 0 SC Heerenveen

Portsmouth FC vented their frustration at missing out on a Round of 32 place on SC Heerenveen, with Peter Crouch striking twice in a comfortable 3-0 home win.

On Wednesday, Portsmouth should have taken the lead after Armand Traoré's storming run from halfway but Crouch stabbed his first-time shot across the goal and wide of the far post. The England striker then contrived to hit the crossbar after Mark Wilson had picked him out in the box with a brilliant cross-field pass. The ball bounced up invitingly for Crouch but he could only poke it onto the woodwork.

Portsmouth were looking slick in attack but the number of wasted chances was beginning to cause concern before Crouch finally reaped the dividends. Arnold Mvuemba cut the ball back to Wilson, who floated another cross towards the far post and this time Crouch connected well with his downward header to put Portsmouth 1-0 up in the 40th minute.

Two minutes later, it was 2-0, with Nwankwo Kanu tricking his way into the box with a mazy run and Crouch pouncing to finish after the Nigerian's shot was saved. The game petered out as a contest in the second half, but Portsmouth added a third at the very end after Nadir Belhadj was fouled and Hreidarsson headed home Glen Little's free-kick.

Hamburger SV 3 - 1 Aston Villa

Hamburger SV guaranteed themselves a tie against one of the third-placed sides from the other UEFA Cup groups in the Round of 32 draw as they took an inexperienced Aston Villa FC side apart, with Ivica Olić on target twice.

Only three of the players who started Villa's 4-2 win against Bolton Wanderers FC on Saturday - Luke Young, Carlos Cuéllar and Steven Sidwell - kicked off in Germany, but while Martin O'Neill's stand-ins defended steadily in numbers, they were undone on the break after 18 minutes. Bastian Reinhardt's long diagonal ball found Petrić, and the Croatian brought the ball down before sending a sweet swerving drive across Bradley Guzan and into the net.

Hamburg were 2-0 up 12 minutes later, Olić squirming past his marker to head in off the post following a fine Dennis Aogo cross, and Piotr Trochowski tested Guzan with another shot four minutes later before Craig Gardner fired just over with Villa's first meaningful effort of the game. However, the English team were relieved to go in just 2-0 down at the break as Marcell Jansen cracked an effort against the bar.

Undeterred, Hamburg made it 3-0 on 57 minutes, with Joris Mathijsen's ball from inside his own area turning Olić loose to scamper beyond the covering defenders and drive brilliantly past Guzan. Villa looked finished, but got a goal in bizarre style late on, with Moustapha Salifou's wildly miscued shot redirected in by Nathan Delfouneso. However, their joy was short-lived, with Sidwell dismissed for a second bookable offence soon after.

Saint-Etienne 2 - 2 Valencia

AS Saint-Etienne held on to top spot in Group G after playing out an exciting 2-2 draw with second-placed Valencia CF in testing conditions at a snow-covered Stade Geoffroy-Guichard.

Brazilian forward Ilan gave St Etienne the lead twice, with contrasting first-half goals, but Valencia fought back on each occasion thanks to strikes from Fernando Morientes and substitute Nikola Žigić. The result kept the French Ligue 1 strugglers two points clear of their nearest rivals at the group summit, and might have been even better for a home team who created several good chances to win.

Valencia carved out the first opportunity of the night when David Albelda side-footed the ball wide, yet the first goal fell to Alain Perrin's men close to the half-hour. Ilan latched on to Dimitri Payet's pass through the heart of the Valencia back line and raced into the visitors' penalty area before cleverly scooping the ball over goalkeeper Vicente Guaita. The Spanish side took just four minutes to get their retaliation in, however, as the experienced Morientes pounced to turn in a low Joaquín cross from close range.

Unai Emery's charges were not off the hook so easily, though, and Ilan struck again after 44 minutes, by which time he had already had another goal ruled out. The Brazilian finished comfortably after Guaita spilled a harmless-looking centre from Geoffrey Dernis. The keeper made amends for that mistake with crucial saves early in the second half from Dernis and Kevin Mirallas, at a time when St Etienne were rampant. Guaita caught the eye in particular with a one-handed stop from Dernis, shortly after which Payet rounded the keeper but shot against the woodwork. Valencia eventually made the hosts pay for their profligacy with 18 minutes left. Substitute Miguel delivered a deep cross from the right which Asier del Horno headed back into the six-metre box where the lurking Žigić ducked to nod in the second equaliser.

Current results;

Group E
AC Milan 2 - 2 Wolfsburg
Portsmouth 3 - 0 SC Heerenveen

Group F
Ajax Amsterdam 2 - 2 Slavia Prague
Hamburger SV 3 - 1 Aston Villa

Group G
Club Brugge 0 - 1 FC Copenhagen
Saint-Etienne 2 - 2 Valencia

Group H
Deportivo La Coruna 1 - 0 Nancy
Feyenoord Rotterdam 0 - 1 Lech Poznan
uefa.com

Eduardo return is the good news for Arsenal

2008-12-17T21:52:00.005+08:00

Arsenal's Croatian international striker Eduardo made a successful return to action after being out for ten months after suffering a broken left leg and dislocating his left ankle.

The 25-year-old Brazilian-born striker came through the first 45 minutes of a reserve game against Portsmouth and professed himself to be mightily relieved even to be playing after the tackle by Martin Taylor of Birmingham at the end of February had many fearing it had ended his career.

"I am feeling very happy to have started my first game in ten months," he said. "I hope I can do more and that next time will be better. I just felt something in my hamstring, but in two weeks I will be all right."

The injury cost both Arsenal and the player dear as they ended up trophyless, and Eduardo also missed the UEFA EURO 2008 championships where Croatia sparkled before bowing out to Turkey in the quarter-finals. He underwent an intensive rehabilitation programme that included spells in his native Brazil.

His blunder's pic

Suzuki Cup : Teerasil's Early Goal Gives Thais The Edge

2008-12-17T21:41:00.002+08:00

An early goal from Teerasil Dangda was enough to hand Thailand a slim 1-0 win over Indonesia in the first leg AFF Suzuki Cup semifinal match at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium tonight. The lone scorer tonight was Teerasil Dangda who stunned the Indonesia defence when he nodded Thailand ahead just five minutes into the game.

Indonesia, seeking a good result ahead of the second leg in Bangkok on Dec 20, battled back relentlessly but failed to breach the Thai defence. The Indonesians will now have the difficult task of trying to overcome their opponents away from their fans. For the second match in succession, Indonesia conceded an early goal. In their last preliminary match against Singapore to determine the group champions, Indonesia were breached just minutes into the game. And tonight, in front of over 50,000 screaming fans, the hosts found themselves chasing the game from the fifth minute.

Thailand's Sutee Suksomkit crossed from the left and Teerasil Dangda leapt high and placed the ball into the top right corner, well beyond the reach of the lanky Markus Harison Rihihina. Indonesia had a nasty scare five minutes later when Sutee's freekick smashed through but just before the referee Vo Minh Tri had blown for an infringement. Thailand picked up a another freekick in the 29th minute but Sutee's superbly struck shot was punched away. Ismed Sofyan, to the relief of the Indonesian bench, cleared what would have been a goal off the line after when his keeper was beaten. About eight minutes after the re-start, Thai skipper Datsakorn Thonglao watched in despair as his strike hit the cross bar. Datsakorn was not done and in the 73rd minute, let loose a stinging shot which Markus saved.

With time quickly running out, Indonesia began to intensify their attacks. Benny replaced Bambang Irsyad Aras for Talaohu Abdulmushafry and Arif Suyono. Arif especially was a danger and soon after coming on, almost set up the equaliser but Nataporn Phanrit just narrowly managed to turn the ball away. In the dying minutes, Arif raced in from the left and sent in a low cross into the box but Budi Sudarsono failed to control it. suzukicup.com

Paul Ince sacked as manager of Blackburn Rovers

2008-12-16T21:11:00.002+08:00

Paul Ince, the former England captain, has been sacked as manager of Blackburn Rovers after just 21 games and less than six months at Ewood Park.

Blackburn are currently second from bottom of the Premier League table and it was decided to relieve Ince of his duties at a meeting of the club's board on Monday. It followed a run of six consecutive league defeats for the former Macclesfield and MK Dons manager.

"It is with great sadness the board announce that Paul Ince is to leave the club," a club statement read. "After a board meeting yesterday it was decided to relieve Paul of his duties.

Ince was appointed in June on a three-year contract and, despite a promising start to the campaign, saw performances and results begin to deteriorate. The club have not won since September 27 at Newcastle United and reports of dressing-room unrest began to emerge.

Graeme Souness, the former Blackburn manager, is the early favourite to succeed Ince, with veteran midfielder Tugay possibly taking up a player-coach role. Sam Allardyce, the former Bolton and Newcastle manager, appeared to rule himself out of the running at the weekend, while Alan Curbishley has also been linked with the club.

Gamba Osaka ended Adelaide challenge to face Man Utd

2008-12-15T14:46:00.003+08:00

Yasuhito Endo's 23rd minute goal proved to be the difference between Gamba Osaka and Adelaide United at the Toyota Stadium in Toyota City on Sunday evening, handing the Japanese side a dream fixture against Manchester United in Yokohama on Thursday.

Although Gamba had beaten their Australian rivals 5-0 over two legs in the AFC Champions League final in November, this encounter was as close as the scoreline suggests, with Adelaide going close on a number of occasions. Possibly due to their game against Waitakere on Thursday evening, Adelaide United looked the sharper of the two sides in the early stages and created the game's first real chance in the 15th minute when skipper Travis Dodd broke clear of the Gamba defence and fired a shot just wide of the post.

That seemed to spur the Japanese side into action and prompted by the brilliance of Yasuhito Endo, they look the lead midway through the first half. The No7 started and finished a move which saw him feed Takahiro Futugawa, who in turn played a high ball to Ryuji Bando, who flicked it into the path of Endo, who clipped the ball through the legs of the onrushing Eugene Galekovic. At 1-0 down, Adelaide were not out of it and Dodd's volley to the far post seemed almost certain to be headed home by Cassio, until Akira Kaji made a timely intervention. Three minutes before half-time, Scott Jamieson's wonderful ball inside the box was met by the head of Dodd, who saw the crossbar rattle rather than the net ripple.

Although it was the Australians who needed a goal, in the second half it looked as though Gamba were more likely to score. After a turgid opening to the second half, the game came to life again in the 72nd minute when Lucas's defensive header from an Adelaide corner saw the Japanese break quickly. The ball broke wto Bando who fired a goalbound effort, but it took a crucial deflection of Robert Cornthwaite and went out for a corner. The defender went from hero to villain three minutes later when he passed straight to Endo, who found Lucas surging forward. The Brazilian carried the ball to the edge of the box and fired straight at the legs of Galekovic. Lucas went close twice in the latter stages, but was again denied by the goalkeeper and then saw a close-range shot go off target.

Those worries will be at the back of coach's Akira Nishino's mind at present as he and his players look forward to a semi-final clash with Manchester United. And on the evidence of this game, even if the aforementioned trio fail to recover in time, with players of the calibre of Endo, Lucas and wide man Michihiro Yasuda, they have the ability to cause the other United a fair few problems. FIFA Club World Cup

La Liga : Renato the hero AGAIN

2008-12-15T14:38:00.003+08:00

Brazilian Renato was the hero again as Sevilla followed up their Real Madrid scalp with a 1-0 home win over title rivals Villarreal on Sunday to go third in the table.

Renato had scored an 84th-minute winner as Sevilla overcame Real, 4-3, last weekend and struck on the chime of half-time to secure a valuable three points and they move level on points with Valencia, eight behind leaders Barcelona. Villarreal slipped to fourth and trail Barcelona, who defeated Real Madrid, 2-0, on Saturday, by nine points.

The referee was close to blowing up only for Renato to score with Frederic Kanoute's miscontrol of a high ball inadvertently setting up the Samba striker. Kanoute should have made it 2-0 at the beginning of the second half but sliced over after Adriano had cut the ball back. Substitute Fabiano and Adriano spurned great chances and it was incredible that a dominant Sevilla failed to get a second. fifa

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Full results;

Valencia 2 - 1 Espanyol
Barcelona 2 - 0 Real Madrid
.......
Almeria 1 - 1 Racing Santander
Athletic Bilbao 3 - 0 Sporting Gijon
Getafe 4 - 1 Mallorca
Malaga 2 - 0 Numancia
Recreativo Huelva 1 - 0 Osasuna
Valladolid 3 - 0 Deportivo La Coruna
Sevilla 1 - 0 Villarreal
Atletico Madrid 2 - 0 Real Betis

Serie A : Juventus beat AC Milan to keep pace with Inter

2008-12-15T14:18:00.005+08:00

Juventus 4 - 2 AC Milan

Juventus kept their own title hopes alive while dealing a potentially fatal blow to those of AC Milan with a thrilling 4-2 victory at Turin's Stadio Olimpico on Sunday. Juve stayed six points behind leaders Inter Milan, who beat rock bottom Chievo by the same score earlier in the day. Milan, who finished with ten men after Gianluca Zambrotta was sent off on his return to his former club, are nine points back in fourth spot with the title slipping away.

Juve took the lead through an Alessandro Del Piero penalty after the striker was felled in the box by Marek Jankulovski. Milan hit back just after the half hour as Georgian centre-back Kakha Kaladze played in Ronaldinho on the left and he crossed for Pato to tap home. But Milan failed to stay on level terms for very long and centre-back Giorgio Chiellini was left free to head home a Del Piero corner.

Brazilian Amauri scored Juve's third goal just before the break after more poor Milan defending as no-one closed down Paolo De Ceglie on the left, allowing him to pick out Amauri's head with a pinpoint cross. Milan goalkeeper Christian Abbiati kept his side in it at the beginning of the second half, saving shots of Claudio Marchisio and Momo Sissoko.

Massimo Ambrosini scored Milan's second on 56 minutes with a deflected shot but any hopes the visitors had of claiming something from the game soon disappeared. Zambrotta was dimissed for a second booking on 65 minutes and four minutes later Amauri slotted in his second with a bobbled volley. Del Piero almost added a fifth but crashed his shot off the post with Abbiati well beaten.

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Inter Milan 4 - 2 Chievo

At the San Siro Inter looked to be coasting two minutes into the second-half when they led 2-0 but the Flying Pigs staged an unexpected fight-back to level things at 2-2 before Sweden forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic netted a late brace. That ensured Inter will go into the Serie A winter break in a week's time at the top of the standings.

Inter were off to a dream start on three minutes as Brazilian full-back Maxwell cantered down the left on the overlap, took a pass from Dejan Stankovic, cut inside and rifled a right-footed shot home. It was a similar story at the start of the second period as the champions fashioned a brilliant goal through Stankovic. The Serbian midfielder fed Maicon, who galloped down the right. He crossed into the box where Ibrahimovic's deft flick fell perfectly for Stankovic to fire home.

Leading 2-0 at home to the bottom side, Inter would have been expected to win easily but Chievo mounted a comeback. Sergio Pellessier started things off with a stunning shot from distance that gave Julio Cesar no chance in the Inter goal. San Siro was stunned into silence in the 65th minute as Andrea Mantovani got to the byline on Chievo's left and crossed for Simone Bentivoglio to bundle home from two yards out, courtesy of a deflection off Maxwell.

Mourinho did not waste much time in trying to kick-start his team, throwing on strikers Hernan Crespo and Mario Balotelli as well as winger Luis Figo. But it was Ibrahimovic who made the difference, rising highest to head home a cross from Maicon with 11 minutes left. Chievo's Santiago Morero was sent off for a second booking and then the Swede smashed home a stunning right foot shot two minutes from time.

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AS Roma 3 - 2 Cagliari

AS Roma won for the fifth match in a row to continue their recent resurgence with a come from behind 3-2 success at home to Cagliari.

Roma have been upwardly mobile since a disastrous start to the season in which they lost six of their first nine matches. They find themselves in the top half of the table for the first time this campaign. Things looked good as Francesco Totti put them in front but goals from Daniele Conti and Brazilian Jeda turned the match on its head before Simone Perrotta's acrobatic finish restored parity. Roma threw everything but the kitchen sink at Cagliari and Mirko Vucinic scored the winner in injury time after a scramble in the box. fifa

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Full results;

Bologna 5 - 2 Torino
Napoli 3 - 0 Lecce
AS Roma 3 - 2 Cagliari
Fiorentina 2 - 0 Catania
Genoa 1 - 1 Atalanta
Inter Milan 4 - 2 Chievo
Palermo 2 - 0 Siena
Reggina 0 - 2 Sampdoria
Udinese 3 - 3 Lazio
Juventus 4 - 2 AC Milan

BPL : Chelsea miss chance to go top

2008-12-15T14:09:00.003+08:00

Chelsea 1 - 1 West Ham

Gianfranco Zola stopped his old club Chelsea from returning to the top of the English Premier League as his West Ham side claimed a 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.

On his return to Chelsea, where the former Italy striker holds legendary status, the fledgling manager's Hammers team gained a well-earned point in a fiercely contested London derby. The result meant Chelsea remain second in the Premier League table, one point behind Liverpool, while West Ham's struggle to pull away from the relegation zone was helped by a useful point gained away from home. Wales striker Craig Bellamy gave the visitors a 33rd-minute lead with a well-taken strike but France forward Nicolas Anelka rescued a point for Chelsea in the 51st minute with his 100th Premier League goal.

Despite substitute Didier Drogba scoring the winner in Chelsea's 2-1 victory over Romania's CFR Cluj that put them into the last 16 of the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday, Scolari kept the Côte d'Ivoire forward on the bench with Anelka remaining as the sole striker. Frank Lampard came in for Salomon Kalou in the only change to the Blues line-up. Zola was given a warm welcome back to Stamford Bridge by the home fans, and the Sardinian's exit from the tunnel was delayed by several warm exchanges with Blues backroom staff.

Both sides struggled to create goalscoring opportunities and convert corners into dangerous chances. But fired-up forward Bellamy broke the deadlock with a well-taken strike in the 33rd minute. Parker took Herita Ilunga's throw-in, rounded right-back Jose Boswinga as he charged into the penalty box. He cut the ball back for Bellamy, who chested it down and blasted a shot low inside goalkeeper Petr Cech's near post.

Anelka missed a good chance just before the interval, blasting a bobbling ball wide when presented with a good chance to hit the target. Scolari had seen enough and replaced the booked Ballack with Drogba at half-time to sharpen up Chelsea's attack. But within six minutes Anelka reminded Scolari of his shooting skills with a well-taken goal. After smart passing among the Chelsea ranks, Drogba laid the ball off to Lampard outside the penalty box and the former Hammer clipped it over the visitors' back line for Anelka. The France striker took a half-volley in his stride, hitting it down into the turf and beyond goalkeeper Robert Green's dive for the equaliser.

MEANWHILE, Michael Owen celebrated his 29th birthday by putting Newcastle United on their way to a vital victory at Portsmouth that lifted the Magpies out of the relegation zone.

The striker executed a fine chip in the 52nd minute of an entertaining match at Fratton Park, before Obafemi Martins and Danny Guthrie sealed Newcastle's first league win in five attempts and their first away triumph this season. fifa

Full results;

Middlesbrough 1 - 1 Arsenal
Aston Villa 4 - 2 Bolton W.
Liverpool 2 - 2 Hull City
Manchester City 0 - 1 Everton
Stoke City 0 - 0 Fulham
Sunderland 4 - 0 West Bromwich
Wigan Athletic 3 - 0 Blackburn Rovers
Tottenham Hotspur 0 - 0 Manchester United
.......
Portsmouth 0 - 3 Newcastle United
Chelsea 1 - 1 West Ham United

La Liga : Barcelona king of 'El Clasico'

2008-12-14T15:38:00.005+08:00

Two late goals from Samuel Eto'o and Lionel Messi helped Barcelona defeat Real Madrid 2-0 in 'El Clasico' at a rain-soaked Camp Nou on Saturday to move 12 points clear of their arch rivals in the title race.

Former Real old boy Eto'o had seen Iker Casillas save his penalty on 70 minutes but picked himself up to break the deadlock seven minutes from time and Messi produced a delicate chip in stoppage time to spark wild celebrations. It was Barca's first win over Real since November 2005 and was sweet revenge for last season when Real did a league double and Barca had to perform the guard of honour to salute Real as champions at the Santiago Bernabeu before losing 4-1.

For new Real Madrid coach Juande Ramos, who took over from Bernd Schuster four days ago, it was a bitter pill to swallow and the former Tottenham Hotspur manager has a mammoth task to help Real win a third consecutive title. It is a complete turnaround from last season when Real opened up a seven-point cushion with a 1-0 victory at Camp Nou before strolling to the title.

Wesley Sneijder was passed fit for the match as Ramos shuffled an injury-plagued Real side who also had their left side weakened through the suspensions of Arjen Robben and Marcelo. Sergio Ramos was asked to play at left back - possibly to try to counter Messi. Guardiola, who saw his team destroy Valencia 4-0 last time out, had no major injury worries and the three-pronged attack of Eto'o, Messi and Thierry Henry was employed to test the makeshift Real backline.

On 70 minutes Barca thought they had their breakthrough when Michel Salgado blocked Sergi Busquets and the referee pointed to the penalty spot. However, Casillas went the right way to save Eto'o's spot-kick and denied him again a minute later with a fantastic save. Eto'o sucked up the blow and showed a real predator instinct to get a slight touch to prod the ball in after Carles Puyol kept a corner alive. Messi then rubbed salt in their wounds with a 91st minute chip.

Barcelona will play Villarreal next weekend while Real entertain Valencia praying for the Christmas break.

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MEANWHILE, Valencia beat Espanyol 2-1. Román Martínez gave the visitors the lead in the 29th minute but they were down to ten men soon after when Francisco Rufete received his marching orders. Raúl Albiol levelled matters just before the hour mark and Vicente Rodríguez won his side – who move into second in the standings – the points nine minutes from time. fifa

Current results;

Valencia 2 - 1 Espanyol
Barcelona 2 - 0 Real Madrid
.......
Almeria ? - ? Racing Santander
Athletic Bilbao ? - ? Sporting Gijon
Getafe ? - ? Mallorca
Malaga ? - ? Numancia
Recreativo Huelva ? - ? Osasuna
Valladolid ? - ? Deportivo La Coruna
Sevilla ? - ? Villarreal
Atletico Madrid ? - ? Real Betis

BPL Gerrard rescue Liverpool again with double

2008-12-14T11:18:00.010+08:00

Liverpool 2 - 2 Hull City

Liverpool struggled to their third successive home league draw as Barclays Premier League new boys Hull City produced another stunning away performance.

The Tigers had already won at Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur and scored three in a narrow defeat at Manchester United. And if not for Steven Gerrard they might well have ended Liverpool's season-long unbeaten home record. Hull City were two ahead through Paul McShane and a Jamie Carragher own goal before Gerrard scored twice in eight minutes, taking his tally for the season to 11.

And although Hull were put under instant pressure, they soon started to confront Liverpool all over the pitch and it was no surprise when Hull City took the lead after 12 minutes. A Geovanni free-kick on the right sailed right across the box and was knocked back into the danger area by Marlon King, where McShane rose to head into the top corner.

Hull were full of pace, drive and desire and after 22 minutes they scored again. After switching the play from left to right, via King's long ball, Mendy went past Dossena once more and pulled the ball back into the six-yard box, where Carragher turned it high into his own net.

Just a minute later however, Liverpool pulled one back. Kuyt surged down the right and fired in a low cross which fell for Gerrard to clip home from six yards. And in what was now a tremendous match, Liverpool were level after 32 minutes, again through Gerrard. Carragher's cross was headed down by Kuyt for Benayoun to hook on, giving Gerrard a 10-yarder for the equaliser.

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Middlesbrough 1 - 1 Arsenal

Former Arsenal player Jeremie Aliadiere delivered another blow to Arsenal's fading Barclays Premier League title hopes by securing a point for Middlesbrough at the Riverside Stadium.

Aliadiere pounced in the 35th minute with a fine glancing header from a Tuncay Sanli cross after Emmanuel Adebayor had headed the visitors into a 17th-minute lead. The Gunners grabbed the lead when Adebayor stooped to meet Fabregas' set-piece in front of goal and sent a low header past Turnbull.

But former Gunner Jeremie Aliadiere drew the home side level in the 28th minute with a superb glancing header from Tuncay's driven cross from the right which gave Almunia no chance.

Boro started well in the second half with a clever dummy by Huth leading to a long ball forward which proved just too strong for Tuncay. Boro could have gone ahead in the second half when Manuel Almunia made a fine save to deny Stewart Downing, while at the other end Robin van Persie sprang clear but shot across the face of goal.

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Aston Villa 4 - 2 Bolton Wanderers

Gabriel Agbonlahor took his goal tally for the season into double figures as Aston Villa climbed above Arsenal into fourth place in the Barclays Premier League with this resounding victory.

Agbonlahor netted twice as Martin O'Neill's side took advantage of the Gunners being held at Middlesbrough in the lunch-time kick-off to move a point clear. Victory extended Villa's unbeaten league run to five matches but this was only their second home top flight win since September.

After 18 minutes Bolton stunned the home fans by going ahead through Elmander's fifth goal of the season. Kevin Davies did well to supply a low cross from near the by-line and Elmander's back heel at the near post was enough to beat Brad Friedel even though he got some of his body to the ball.

But in the 24th minute a superb finish by Agbonlahor brought them back on level terms. Laursen played a long ball forward from deep in his own half and in one movement Agbonlahor wriggled away from Andy O'Brien and volleyed past Jussi Jaaskelainen from 12 yards out. Then five minutes before half-time an own goal from Kevin Davies put Villa ahead. The Bolton striker was under pressure from Laursen when trying to deal with a Barry left-wing cross and only succeeded in heading into his own net.

Villa started the second half on the offensive and Curtis Davies missed a good chance to extend their lead. Young was finding an increasing amount of room on the left flank as Villa started to dominate and he set up the third goal for Agbonlahor after 67 minutes. Young managed to get in his cross despite the attention of two defenders - and Agbonlahor did the rest with a close range header.

Then with 12 minutes left Agbonlahor turned goal provider, setting up Young whose low shot took a slight deflection off Cahill before flying past Jaaskelainen into the corner of the net. Kevin Davies headed a late consolation goal for Bolton from a Steinsson cross.

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Tottenham Hotspur 0 - 0 Manchester United

Heurelho Gomes left White Hart Lane a hero as his last-minute save denied Manchester United a vital win at Tottenham Hotspur.

And as United desperately searched for a winner to ensure they left for Club World Cup duty in happy mood, the Brazilian produced a fingertip save to turn away a Ryan Giggs free-kick that was going to creep in. It left the Red Devils rueing their failure to take advantage of second-half superiority and opened the door for Chelsea to surge clear in the Barclays Premier League title race by beating West Ham United on Sunday.

Dimitar Berbatov will have been particularly disappointed at his failure to make an impact, which just gave the Spurs fans - so used to losing this fixture - more reason to cheer. Sir Alex Ferguson predicted a hostile reception for the old Tottenham favourite and the Spurs fans obliged with a stream of boos and jeers that began when Berbatov emerged for the warm-up and continued throughout the match.

With Arsenal and Liverpool failing to win earlier on, United had been presented with a perfect opportunity to stamp their presence on the title picture before heading to Japan.

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Current results;

Middlesbrough 1 - 1 Arsenal
Aston Villa 4 - 2 Bolton W.
Liverpool 2 - 2 Hull City
Manchester City 0 - 1 Everton
Stoke City 0 - 0 Fulham
Sunderland 4 - 0 West Bromwich
Wigan Athletic 3 - 0 Blackburn Rovers
Tottenham Hotspur 0 - 0 Manchester United
.......
Portsmouth ? - ? Newcastle United
Chelsea ? - ? West Ham United
premierleague.com

Tuzos too good for Al Ahly

2008-12-13T21:05:00.004+08:00

A remarkable fightback from Pachuca saw them come from two goals down to defeat Al Ahly at the Olympic Stadium in Tokyo to set up a semi-final clash with Liga de Quito on Wednesday evening.

The Mexicans may have dominated the possession and looked the better side in the opening 45 minutes, but they found themselves 2-0 behind at the break, largely due to Al Ahly's fantastic ability on the counter attack. Prompted by the pace and quick thinking of Mohamed Aboutrika, Mohamed Barakat and Flavio, the Egyptians only two meaningful forays into their opponent's half bore fruit.

The opening goal came in the 28th minute when Aboutrika broke down the left hand side and put in a low cross looking for Flavio. Unfortunately for the Tuzos, the ball deflected off the leg of Fausto Pinto and past the wrong-footed Miguel Calero before crossing the line. If their opener was a trifle fortunate, their second was a work of art. A long ball from the back was superbly controlled by Aboutrika who played the ball to Barakat. Rather than opting to shoot himself, he squared the ball to Flavio, who blasted it into the roof of the net to leave the Mexicans scratching their heads.

The Pachuca players looked shaken as the walked off at half-time, but they were soon stirred into action, as some inspired changes from coach Enrique Meza put them back in the game. Off went the unfortunate Pinto and Jaime Correa and on came Juan Carlos Rojas and Luis Montes - and it was the latter who pulled one back within two minutes of the restart. Ahmed El Sayed tripped Paul Aguilar on the edge of the box and from the resulting free kick, Montes hit a curling left footed shot which flew past Abdelhamid and into the net. Seventeen minutes from time, Pachuca were level. For the second time in the game, Al Ahly gave away a free-kick in a dangerous position and from the resulting set-piece Gimenez curled the ball beyond the wall and past the keeper to provoke scenes of joyous celebration.

It remained 2-2 until referee Ravshan Irmatov blew to signal the end of normal time - and in truth, when extra time began, there was only one side who looked likely to score - and that was Pachuca. A move started and finished by the lively Alvarez in the 98th minute ultimately decided the game and left Al Ahly, who boldly predicted a place in the final prior to the tournament, now facing the play-off for fifth place.

Gimenez's second of the afternoon in the 110th minute only served to pour salt in the wounds of Al Ahly who must now pick themselves up to face either Adelaide United or Gamba Osaka in Yokohama on Thursday. FIFA Club World Cup

Ronaldo officially Corinthians player

2008-12-13T20:56:00.003+08:00

Ronaldo was today officially unveiled by his new club Corinthians, but reminded fans that he still faced "a major challenge" to return to full fitness.

The 32-year-old 1994 and 2002 FIFA World Cup™ winner and two-time European footballer of the year has not played this season following a career-threatening left knee injury on which he was operated in February. Months later, his contract with Italian side AC Milan was not renewed.

Having spent months training with top Brazilian side Flamengo in a bid to get back to form, Ronaldo stunned observers by signing for Corinthians. Ronaldo, aware of the challenge ahead, said he expects no special treatment.

"I have a major challenge in front of me and I'll do everything I can to meet it head on," said the Brazilian. "I'm just a player like all the rest here and I have the same rights, and the same obligations, as everyone else. I won't have any privileges."

Reports said Ronaldo will earn a monthly salary of 127,000 euros for his one-year deal, not including bonuses from the sale of his image rights.