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Al Ahly beat Palmeiras to clinch third place at Club World Cup

Egypt's Al Ahly equalled their best-ever finish at the Fifa Club World Cup when defeating South American champions Palmeiras after their third-place play-off ended goalless.
Captain and goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy was Al Ahly's hero in the shoot-out, saving Felipe Melo's penalty to ensure that the African champions won 3-2 in Qatar.
El Shenawy had earlier saved Rony's tame effort while Luiz Adriano missed the target, with Ahly also missing through Amr El-Sulaya and Marwan Mohsen.
Junior Ajayi thought he had made the breakthrough in the second half only for his goal to be narrowly ruled out for offside, while El-Sulaya could have done better with a first-half effort dragged wide.
There was no extra-time at the end of the game, meaning the match went straight to penalties.
"From the start of the tournament, we all promised that every player will give his maximum effort in order to achieve a good position," El Shenawy said after the game. "Thankfully all our efforts paid off and we managed to win the bronze medal."
"We had a great game and we fought very hard to win the medal. Our coaching staff analysed Palmeiras very well. Every player in the team only focuses on doing what is best for the whole team. Everyone fought very hard to win the bronze medal."
Al Ahly, who performed creditably in their semi-final against Germany's Bayern Munich to earn widespread praise, enjoyed great support from the stands thanks to Egypt's sizeable expatriate community in Qatar.
"The players' spirit and determination to please our fans are the secrets behind the bronze medal," added El Shenawy.
The record nine-time African champions' previous best performance at the Club World Cup came in 2006, when they also finished third.
Al Ahly's display is Africa's best at the tournament since 2013 when Morocco's Raja Casablanca - one of only two teams from the continent to finish runners-up, along with DR Congo's TP Mazembe in 2010 - reached the final on home soil.

Real Madrid Beats Juventus for 2nd Straight Champions League Title
63/6/2017

Real Madrid impressively restated its case as the world’s best soccer club on Saturday, getting two goals from Cristiano Ronaldo and outclassing the Italian champion Juventus, 4-1, in the Champions League final in Cardiff, Wales.
The victory made Real Madrid the first team to repeat in the Champions League era, and the first to win consecutive titles in the competition since A.C. Milan in 1989 and 1990, when the tournament was known as the European Cup.
Real Madrid’s title was its 12th, extending its record, and its third in four years.
Ronaldo scored in each half, and on similar plays — clinical finishes inside the penalty area after he had found a pocket to receive a pass from a teammate on the right wing. Casemiro scored Madrid’s second goal, on a 30-yard shot that deflected off the heel of a Juventus defender, and the 21-year-old substitute Marco Asensio added the capper by turning in a cross in the 90th minute.
Mario Mandzukic scored a memorable goal for Juventus on a scissoring shot midway through the first half, but it wasn’t nearly enough. Juventus lost in the final for the seventh time, another record. It was the third defeat in the final for Gianluigi Buffon, its veteran goalkeeper, and denied the 39-year-old fan favorite the one title he covets most in his career.

Aguero masterclass seals Man City win over hapless Gladbach
​15/9/2016

Pep Guardiola has tasted victory against Andre Schubert for the first time. After rain postponed Tuesday's fixture, Manchester City were ruthless, scoring four goals on the night against Gladbach.
Manchester City 4 - 0 Borussia Mönchengladbach
(Aguero 9', 28', 77', Iheanacho 90+1)
Borussia Mönchenladbach were beaten by Sergio Aguero and Manchester City in their Champions League group C opener on Wednesday night, as the Argentine struck a hat trick in a 4-0 win.
Lining up with a three-man defense, Andre Schubert's men afforded their hosts far too much time and space in the first half and never looked like recovering after falling behind within 10 minutes.
Aguero doubled City's lead from the spot before halftime before scoring his third in the final quarter of an hour. By the time substitute Kelechi Iheanacho made it four in stoppage time, the Foals had long since conceded defeat.

Ahly beat AS Roma 4-3 in friendly goal-fest

A goal-fest between Ahly and Italian giants AS Roma saw the Egyptian league leaders triumph 4-3 at a friendly match at the UAE's Hazza Ben Zayed Stadium on Friday.

Meeting for the third time in their history, following a 2-1 victory for Ahly in 2002 and another 3-0 win for Roma in 2008, the Reds managed to prevail this time in another exhibition game that witnessed a large fan turnout in Al-Ain city.
Ghanaian striker John Antwi and his Egyptian colleagues Moemen Zakareya, Walid Soliman and Ahmed El-Sheikh all scored for Ahly, while Eden Dzeko, Mohamed Salah and William Vainqueur were on the score-sheet for the Italians.
Goal-fest
Ahly's high-pressing strategy paid dividends early on when both Saleh Gomaa and Moemen Zakareya managed to win the ball, with the latter setting up an unmarked Antwi inside the area to slot past keeper Morgan De Sanctis.
After being denied by the woodwork, Dzeko managed to equalise seven minutes later, when he received a long ball from Totti between centre-back duo Rami Rabia and Mohamed Naguib and turned to strike the ball past keeper Sherif Ekramy.
Salah then put his side ahead four minutes from the break when he struck near the edge of the box after Dzeko's layoff, following a left-wing cross that centre-back Rabia curiously failed to clear after finding himself out of position.
But that wasn't the end of the action in the first half; Zakareya made sure Ahly went into the dressing rooms level with their illustrious opponents when his brilliant curling effort from inside the area found the net at the far corner.
The eight-time African champions took the lead just nine minutes into the second half, when on-fire Zakareya burst down the left before sending a cross that was eventually converted by Soliman for his side's third.
The final moments, however, witnessed some late drama, when substitute Vainqueur was thought to have ended the game in a 3-3 draw after finding the top of the net from point-blank range in the first moment of stoppage time.
But another substitute in El-Sheikh managed to end the game in Ahly's favour, after being allowed to run through Roma's midfield easily before hitting a well-placed low strike past keeper De Sanctis.      

Champions League: Real Madrid set up all-Madrid final
​4/5/2016

Real Madrid had a number of advantages in Wednesday's semifinal: a 0-0 draw in the opening leg against Manchester City, a home crowd and the return of Cristiano Ronaldo from injury. By contrast City had to deal with an early setback, as defensive boss and club captain Vincent Kompany limped off the pitch injured after less than nine minutes.
For 20 minutes, none of that made any difference as both sides began dozily. Then Daniel Carvajal put Gareth Bale through with a precision pass, and the Welshman squeezed the ball into the top left-hand corner from a tight angle. The shot was deflected, though, and midfielder Fernando was eventually credited with an own goal.
"It took a lucky deflection and went in the top corner," said City keeper Joe Hart after the match. "That's football."
Real remained the better side - thanks largely to a Man City squad that looked as if it was not aware it was playing in a Champions League semifinal. It wasn't until two minutes from the break that the visitors had their first view of goal, but Fernandinho hit the outside of the post. The first half ended 1-0 and left fans of all colors frustrated.

Evouna's brilliance helps Ahly to Cairo derby win over Zamalek
​9/2/2016

Malick Evouna ran half the length of the pitch, bamboozled three defenders and placed a shot into the bottom corner as Ahly claimed the Cairo derby bragging rights by beating Zamalek 2-0 to go seven points clear at the top of the Egyptian Premier League table on Tuesday.

The 23-year-old, who was declared fit a few days before the anticipated clash, broke the deadlock in superb fashion 11 minutes after the restart and substitute Amr Gamal, who replaced him, rounded off the win on the break one minute from time.
It was Evouna's sixth league goal of the season as the Gabonese begins to justify the reported $2.5 million fee paid for his services last summer for the most expensive transfer in the history of Egyptian football.
Zamalek's overly-cautious approach kept Ahly at bay in the first half but they were powerless when Evouna stole possession just before the halfway line, charged towards the area unopposed, turned central defender Ali Gabr inside out and sent a curling shot beyond the despairing dive of keeper Ahmed El-Shennawi.
Ahly went seven points clear of Zamalek at the top after 16 games as they seek to wrestle the title back from their bitter rivals. Zamalek have not defeated Ahly in the league since 2004, although they ended a barren derby run when they prevailed 2-0 in last season's Egypt Cup final to complete a rare domestic double.

Zamalek coach Mido, under whom the team lost twice and drew once in seven matches, was immediately sacked after the match. Ahly's caretaker boss Abdel-Aziz Abdel-Shafi "Zizo", who is expected to be replaced by a foreign tactician, made it five wins out of five following the departure of Portuguese Jose Peseiro.  
Soaking up pressure
Zamalek played with three central midfielders to contain Ahly's attack but, without the injured Tarek Hamed, they still found it difficult to dispose their opponents despite often outnumbering them.

Although Zamalek made a promising start, with Nigerian midfielder Maarouf Yussuf going close with a low shot from the edge of the area that went just wide, they opted to sit back and soak up pressure for the majority of a largely cautious first half.
Ahly had the better possession but they were mostly restricted to long-range shots, including a curling one from winger Moemen Zakareya that narrowly missed the target.
Lone striker Evouna was shackled by a tight Zamalek rearguard and the burly frontman was barely fed by Ahly's three attacking midfielders.
The Red Devils' best chance before the break fell to Zakareya on the stroke of halftime when a through pass found him but two Zamalek defenders made a last-ditch interception to thwart him from close range.
Evouna then made the difference after the break, giving his side a lead which he almost doubled in the 74thminute but his low shot somewhat missed the target with the goal at his mercy after a pacy counter attack orchestrated by playmaker Abdallah El-Said. 
Zamalek pushed forward after falling behind but even the introduction of "super sub" Mostafa Fathi, winger Hazem Emam and veteran forward Mahmoud Shikabala did little to help them carve out openings. Their solitary chance saw Yussuf exchange passes with striker Bassem Morsi to break into the area but his shot was blocked by keeper Sherif Ekramy, who was rarely called into action.
The overlapping Gamal ensured the win in the dying minutes from a neatly-worked counter attack, with Ramadan Sobhi feeding him to fire a powerful shot high into the net at the far post.

Wasteful Egypt slump to home defeat by Jordan in friendly
​27/1/2016

A wasteful Egypt side, missing their foreign-based players, slumped to their second defeat under veteran coach Hector Cuper following a 1-0 home loss to Jordan in a friendly game on Wednesday.

Fans were allowed to attend the match, which was played in the Upper Egyptian city of Aswan, despite a lengthy crowd ban in domestic football. However, their cheers failed to spur a lethargic Egypt side in the first quarter of an hour until Jordan scored what proved to be the winner on 19 minutes.
A free kick from Mohammad Al-Dmeiri was not properly cleared and the ball fell to the unmarked Ahmed Samir to fire home from close range.
Egypt squandered a slew of chances afterwards to lose one of two matches arranged as part of the team's preparations for two crucial African Cup of Nations qualifying games against Nigeria in March. They next face Libya on Friday. 
The defeat is Egypt's second since Argentinean boss Cuper took over in March 2015 after the 1-0 loss they suffered at Chad in the first leg of a World Cup qualifier last November. The Pharaohs recovered in the second leg to crush their modest opponents 4-0 and reach the qualifying group phase.
Egypt are on top of Group G of the Nations Cup qualifiers with maximum six points from wins over Tanzania and Chad. Nigeria are second on four points. Egypt are bidding to reach next year's Gabon finals for the first time since winning the last of their record seven titles in 2010. 
The team missed the likes of AS Roma winger Mohamed Salah and Arsenal's newly-signed midfielder Mohamed Elneny but their starting line-up still included the stars of Cairo giants Ahly and Zamalek.
Masry's Ahmed Raouf played as a lone striker in front of three attacking midfielders in Zamalek's in-form winger Mostafa Fathi and Ahly duo Ramadan Sobhi and Abdallah El-Saied.
Egypt started to make their presence felt after falling behind, with skipper Hossam Ghaly almost restoring parity on 31 minutes when his free header went over the bar following a cross from the right.
Fathi also went close early in the second half following a superb individual effort, skipping past a couple of challengers on the right before his chip from a tight angle hit the side netting.
There were further goal-scoring chances from defender Rami Rabia and substitute Ayman Hefni but Egypt's onslaught could have cost them another goal in the dying minutes when the post thwarted a Jordanian counter attack.

Egyptian rivals Al Ahly and Zamalek feel right at home in UAE
15/10/2015


In a competitive and absorbing match, Al Ahly were crowned Egyptian Super Cup champions for the ninth time on Thursday night following a 3-2 victory over Cairo arch-rivals Zamalek at the Hazza bin Zayed Stadium.
Like many other high-profile trophy matches, emotions ran high. Players scuffled about 25 minutes into the second half, and individuals from both dugouts joined the pushing and shoving.
The referee and his assistants were taken off the field until order was restored, and players hugged once the match ended.
What was a riveting spectacle seemed a gift for Egyptian football fans, who nearly filled the 25,000-capacity stadium to see their country’s biggest sides.
The atmosphere at the stadium was absolutely electric. Beating drums and choreographed chants were deafening; it seemed almost as if they were being multiplied by loudspeakers.
Banners of “Egypt-heart-Zayed-sons” were displayed, a touching gesture by the Egyptian fans towards their Emirati hosts. Fans also displayed huge banners as the teams lined up for the national anthems. Without doubt, an atmosphere rarely seen in UAE football.
Ahly and Zamalek players did not seem to care they were playing outside of their country, not with so many compatriots cheering them on.
The first half was a 50-50 affair with few chances from either team, who were whistled by both of their fans at one point during the first half. Zamalek took the lead in the 25th minute and missed a chance to double their lead eight minutes later when Kahraba missed a penalty.
Ahly’s Abdullah El Said showed Kahraba how it should be done as he converted his spot kick to equalise in first-half injury time, after a very harsh call by the Italian referee.
Before the match, local fans of the two big Cairo clubs seemed excited about the clash, which brought their country’s most prominent clubs to the UAE.
The Hazza bin Zayed Stadium was awash with a sea of Ahly red and Zamalek white, each side’s partisans chanting their club’s songs, waving flags and taking selfies.
With football fans mostly locked out of stadiums in Egypt for the past few years because of security concerns, the Egyptian Football Association came to the UAE to put on the season-opening match for the estimated 300,000 Egyptian expatriates in the Emirates.
“I came all the way from Ajman for this game,” said Mohammed Zaki, 32, an Ahly fan. “It was a little tough to get in – no parking and a long queue – but the atmosphere is very beautiful, and it is a great moment for us to enjoy this game live in this amazing stadium.”
Magdy Abdullah, a 28-year-old Zamalek fan, said: “I don’t usually go to many football games, but for our teams to be playing in Al Ain, where I live, I had to come with my friends and family to support my team.
“We have to play with our heart and we will win the cup.”
Security around the stadium was firm but friendly, with maximum, no-nonsense police control on the roads and at each entrance in the stadium, where fans were screened before entering.
Zamalek and Ahly fans had their own entrances, at opposite ends of the stadium, which was divided into halves, Ahly fans at one end, Zamalek at the other.
“We were instructed well about the security before and after the game, especially,” said a police steward. “The stadium is full so there might be possibilities” of clashes, “but if there is any sense of that, we will take care of it immediately.”

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Barcelona's misfiring attack a worry for Luis Enrique
4/10/2015


Barcelona's misfiring forward line left coach Luis Enrique scratching his head again on Saturday as last season's treble winners went down to a 2-1 defeat at Sevilla.


The Catalan side's trident attack hit a record 122 goals as Barca won La Liga, the Spanish Cup and the Champions League but they have so far struggled to reach that level in this campaign.

Lionel Messi has missed the last two matches through injury but even before that was not at his deadly best while both Neymar and Luis Suarez have lacked sharpness.

With the goal flow slowed, Barca's defending has come under the spotlight. They were thrashed 4-1 at Celta Vigo and a second successive away defeat followed at Sevilla.

In between there was a narrow 2-1 win over newly-promoted Las Palmas and a rather fortunate 2-1 home defeat of Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League, having trailed with 10 minutes remaining.

"Normally you can expect the highest level from our players," Luis Enrique told a news conference.

"Coaches and teams look to create the most number of chances for the top players to score.

"We are not anywhere near our best at the moment but this will change I have no doubt.

"We looked for the openings but we were not able to take advantage of them when they came."

Barca have been stretched by the FIFA transfer ban that has prevented them making signings during the last two transfer windows and this along with injuries has meant they have had to rely on youth players.

"This was a game where both teams had a lot of chances and it is incredible that we have come away with just one goal," added Luis Enrique.

"There were 15 minutes in the second half though where Sevilla were on top and that has cost us. We tried everything to come back but it was not possible."

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Chelsea boss Mourinho raises prospect of being fired after 4th loss in 8
​3/10/2015

If the club wants to sack me, they have to sack me, because I'm not running away from my responsibility, my team, says Jose Mourinho

Defending champion Chelsea fell to its fourth loss of the Premier League season on Saturday, leaving Jose Mourinho talking about the possibility of being fired.

In what appeared to be a pre-emptive move after Saturday's 3-1 home loss to Southampton, Mourinho reminded owner Roman Abramovich that the club has an unwelcome reputation for discarding managers.

In the six years before Mourinho returned to the Chelsea dugout in 2013 — after previously coaching the team from 2004 to 2007 — Abramovich went through seven managers.

"If the club wants to sack me, they have to sack me, because I'm not running away from my responsibility, my team," Mourinho told Sky Sports television.

If losing four games out of eight so far in the league was not bad enough, Chelsea also lost at Mourinho's former team, FC Porto, in the Champions League on Tuesday.

"If the club sacks me, they sack the best manager this club has had," Mourinho said. "And the message is again that ... bad results, the manager is guilty. That is the message the players have had for a decade."

The decision to recall captain John Terry backfired and fellow center back Gary Cahill was similarly susceptible in defense as Mourinho endured only his third league loss at Stamford Bridge as Chelsea manager.

Willian had curled in a free kick after 10 minutes to put the champions in front but Steven Davis leveled before halftime. Sadio Mane and Graziano Pelle netted in the second half to give Southampton its first win at Chelsea since 2002.

Chelsea is only four points above the relegation zone and 10 points behind fledgling leader Manchester City. Its latest setback overshadowed Sergio Aguero's five-goal performance as City trashed Newcastle 6-1.

City dominant performance in the second half against Newcastle provided a reminder of the team's title credentials after back-to-back Premier League losses and a Champions League setback.

Aleksandar Mitrovic headed Newcastle in front in the 18th minute and it took Aguero until three minutes before halftime to equalize.

But in a 13-minute spell at the start of the second half, Aguero added another four goals, while Kevin de Bruyne also got in on the scoring act for the leaders.

Aguero had only scored three goals in the first two months of the season before Saturday and his tally might be have greater had he not been taken off with around 25 minutes remaining.

"In other games he was maybe having a lot of chances but not scoring," City manager Manuel Pellegrini told the BBC. "But today he returned to his normal amount of chances he creates but this time he scored.

"He was not upset about going off. He was having treatment at half time and it was a risk for him to finish the whole game."

Newcastle is last in the standings, still without a win after eight games. Northeast rival Sunderland moved ahead on goal difference with a 2-2 draw against West Ham. Sunderland threw away a 2-0 lead to leave Dick Advocaat still searching for his first victory over the campaign.

It's similarly bleak for Aston Villa, which is a point further ahead with just one win to its name so far. Marko Arnautovic gave Stoke a 1-0 victory at Villa Park.

There were victories for two of the surprise packages of the early season: Crystal Palace and Leicester.

Leicester quickly bounced back from its first loss of the season last weekend by winning 2-1 at Norwich. Jamie Vardy scored a seventh goal in eight league games for Leicester.

Yohan Cabaye set up Yannick Bolasie's header and then scored from the penalty spot as Palace beat West Bromwich Albion 2-0 to move ahead of Leicester into third place on goal difference.

A meeting between promoted clubs Bournemouth and Watford ended in a 1-1 stalemate. 

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Celta Vigo 4-1 Barcelona: Iago Aspas scores twice as Celta stun Barca
24/9/2015


Former Liverpool striker Iago Aspas struck twice as unbeaten Celta Vigo shattered Barcelona's 100%  start in La Liga with a 4-1 win at Balaidos.

Ex-Barca youngster Nolito also continued his fine start to the season with a stunning opener and substitute John Guidetti struck for rampant Celta after Neymar had claimed a consolation.

Barcelona created numerous chances in an open encounter but poor defending proved their undoing as the champions were continually caught on the break.


Celta's victory lifted them above Barca in the Primera Division and was reward for an enthusiastic display.

They set the tone early on, pushing Barcelona back in the opening 10 minutes. Fabian Orellana had an early chance but shot high and wide.

Barca responded as Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez both forced saves from Sergio Alvarez but Celta were not intimidated and continued to take the game to the visitors.


They broke through after 26 minutes with a brilliant strike from Nolito.

Hugo Mallo was first afforded too much space on the right by Barcelona and his deep cross bounced through the area to Nolito on the far side. Nolito, also under no pressure, looked up and delicately curled a chip over Marc-Andre ter Stegen into the top corner. Ter Stegen did get his fingertips to the ball but had little chance of stopping it.

Celta maintained the pressure and doubled their lead four minutes later with a breakaway goal from Aspas. Nolito released the striker with a header on halfway and he raced clear to lob the outrushing Ter Stegen from the edge of the box.

Stunned Barca tried to respond and Andres Iniesta set up Neymar with a fine through-ball but Augusto Fernandez got across to block the Brazilian's effort.

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Egypt U-23 coach confident despite tough Olympics qualifiers group
17/9/2015


Egypt U-23 coach Hossam El-Badry said on Thursday he is undaunted over tough pairings in the Olympics qualifiers, confirming that his only goal is to reach Rio de Janeiro.

Egypt was handed a tough group in the U-23 Africa Cup of Nations, qualifying for the next Summer Olympic games alongside Nigeria, Algeria and Mali.

The other group includes hosts Senegal, South Africa, Zambia and Tunisia, but El-Badry stressed that he is unfazed by the toughness of his group.

"I have a target and it is to qualify for the Olympics, no matter what the names of the opponents are," Gharib told Algerian newspaper El-Shorouk on Thursday.

"Qualifying for the U-23 Africa Cup of Nations means that your team is among the best eight teams on the continent, thus there is no room for an easy game."

The former Ahly coach believes that the game against Mali will be the toughest in their group campaign, saying that the Malian team includes "very good players".

"Algeria and Nigeria are continental heavyweights but I think our game against Mali will be very tough. Mali has won the Africa youth championship and they have very good players on their squad. Our game against them will be very tough," he added. "But we don't fear any opponent as we look to win all our games in the continental tournament to reach the Olympics."

El-Badri says he is happy with his players' performance while playing with the Pharaohs against Chad in the African qualifiers.

Mahmoud "Kahraba" Abdel-Moneam, Ramadan Sobhi, and Rami Rabie featured in Hector Cuper's starting line-up against Chad in the African qualifiers, while Mahmoud "Trezeguet" Hassan was a substitute in the 4-1 away win.

"My team includes many Egyptian Premier League stars and some of them played regularly with the Pharaohs so I am confident that they will perform well in the upcoming tournament," El-Badri said.

Senegal will host the U-23 Africa Cup of Nations from 28 November to 12 December.

The first three teams will represent the continent in the next Summer Olympic games in Rio de Janeiro.

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Chelsea's problems mount after 3-0 defeat to title rivals Manchester City
16/8/2015

As the issues mount for champions Chelsea following their 3-0 defeat at Manchester City, Adam Bate reflects on the culmination of a horrible week for Jose Mourinho…

Like the old lady who swallowed a spider to catch a fly, Chelsea's situation has not improved. The Eva Carneiro furore succeeded in distracting from a disappointing home draw with Swansea, so perhaps Sunday's 3-0 defeat at Manchester City will mean the questions about Chelsea's medical department will begin to subside too. But the problems are only increasing.

City romp to victoryManchester City earned first blood in the title race with a 3-0 win over Chelsea.

Indeed, the decision to substitute John Terry for Kurt Zouma might well ensure that even that story moves on quickly. After all, it's the first time that Chelsea's captain has ever been withdrawn from a Premier League game by Jose Mourinho. "It was just a decision," the manager told Sky Sports. "I know that Zouma is the fastest defender in the squad."

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Aduriz the hero as brittle Barcelona crash 4-0 in Bilbao
14/8/2015
Barcelona suffered their heaviest defeat in more than
two years Friday, a 4-0 loss at lively Athletic Bilbao in the first
leg of the Spanish Super Cup in which ageless striker Aritz Aduriz
banging in a memorable hat-trick.
Barcelona now have a veritable mountain to climb in the second leg at
the Camp Nou Monday. Their shaky defence has conceded eight goals in
two games, the other four coming in Tuesday's 5-4 defeat of Sevilla
in the European Super Cup.
Barca coach Luis Enrique put out an experimental side, and Bilbao
took advantage of this to pressure the Catalans right from the start.
In the 13th minute defender Mikel San Jose gave the hosts a dream
start by making it 1-0 with a spectacular 40-metre drive, after Barca
keeper Marc-Andre Ter Stegen had tried to clear the ball with his
head.
The second half belonged entirely to the 34 year-old Aduriz. He made
it 2-0 by heading in a centre from youngster Sabin Marino. Aduriz
took advantage of the continuing chaos in the Barca defence to make
it 3-0, then completed his hat-trick with a cool penalty after Dani
Alves had foolishly pulled down Xabier Etxita.
Lionel Messi and company belatedly took control towards the end, but
lacked the precise and penetration needed to score a single away
goal.

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Luis Enrique sees the positives in defeat
25/7/2015

The coach believes that Barça and United both played well and was only unhappy with his side's lack of finishing 


FC Barcelona suffered their first defeat of the pre-season but Luis Enrique has recognised that he saw a “good game” from both sides. He highlighted the “good level” of both teams and only was disappointed with his side’s lack of composure in the final metres, Barça having hit the woodwork on three occasions. Some of the highlights from Luis Enrique’s post game press conference.

On the game itself:“Hitting the woodwork is part of the game. Today we have not been as clinical as usual. Aside from hitting the post, we created plenty of chances.”

“It was a shame that that the pitch was so dry. It hurt both teams.”

“Sergi Roberto at right back is another option. The more options we have the better. He looked good playing at full back.”

“Douglas didn’t play for fitness reasons. He ended the game the other day a little sore and we did not want to take risks.”

Meeting with Van Gaal:“I spoke to him for five minutes. It was a pleasure. He is a great person and one of the best coaches that I ever had. I have great memories of him.”

On United:“With a coach like Van Gaal and the kind of players they have, it is a team that are going for everything.”

“In a year a lot of things can happen. We came off the back of a year without a trophy and we won the treble. United could do the same, it’s a great club.”

VAN GAAL'S VERDICT ON UNITED'S 3-1 VICTORY OVER BARCELONA 
25/7/2015

Manchester United recorded an excellent 3-1 win over European champions Barcelona on Saturday and, afterwards, Louis van Gaal held a fascinating post-match press conference in front of the world’s media. Here are the main points that the manager was keen to make…

On the win and United’s strength in depth: “The balance of the team is the most important thing. Last year we won against the Champions League winner, it was Real [Madrid] at that time. Now we win against Barcelona so it is possible, but we also had a bit of luck. Three balls hit the post but I was pleased with our performance. Also in the second half, when the youngsters came in, you saw a spirit. We had the same amount of chances as Barcelona and that I like the most today.”

On David De Gea’s form and future: “You have seen him in the first 60 minutes, in spite of his injury, he didn’t train for a week, that he can show his quality already in this game. He has showed his quality I think because the first chance was for Barcelona and when you stop the first chance then you can score the first goal. That is always the difference in the game. Yes, of course, I do hope that De Gea shall stay but in this world of football you never know.”

On Memphis Depay and Wayne Rooney linking up: “Yes I think they try to do their utmost best to look for each other and sometimes I think too much. It should be better when we have a wider orientation, but I think they were always a threat and that is very important. I think Barcelona could not cope with the threat of Depay and Rooney, but I have to say that Adnan Januzaj was also a big threat for them in the 30 minutes that he played as a striker. That is good to see.”

On United’s young team that finished the match: “Yes I was very happy with the reaction of the youngsters because they were more aggressive and that I always want. They were defending more, going forwards and, okay, sometimes you make the wrong choices and you are always the loser, but that is also useful. But it was a team with the spirit. We created chances and we scored two goals with the youngsters so I am very happy.”

On Adnan Januzaj’s performance and winning goal: "I think that Adnan Januzaj was very good because he always gives an option for his midfielders and defenders. He scored a wonderful goal and I think that is always important. He had to fight with two defenders and he did well. But it was more easy for him against the defence without [Gerard] Pique.”

On fans in America getting up early to watch matches: "Yes I have seen it already last year. We played five matches here and we had 300,000 spectators in two weeks. When you see the amount of people in front of our hotel, waiting for one day to only see the players… I try to give signatures and pictures and so on but it is for a human being not always possible to do that because we have a very strict schedule from training, eating, sleeping, training, meeting and so on. So it is not so easy for professional players to respond to these fanatic supporters. Barcelona are the UEFA Champions League winners but you see more red shirts than Barcelona shirts and that is fantastic to see.”

On the benefits of staying in the Bay area: “We have already changed a lot of things in this tour. The last tour we were on the east coast. It was more hot, more humid and that was a negative. Now we are west coast and it is also hot but it is not a normal heat, the people have told me. We have only two base camps. Last year we had to fly on different time schedules. Now we have two weeks on the same time schedule. We have better facilities. The Seahawks' facility was a fantastic place to train. Now we have also found fantastic facilities at Avaya Stadium but also at Stanford University. We shall train there on Monday two times. Overall we have had a better training camp. We had one last year also and it doesn’t say anything because we lost the first match against Swansea City. That is why I have said the whole tour that the most important game is not Paris Saint-Germain or Barcelona, but against Tottenham Hotspur."

On the possibility of Bastian Schweinsteiger playing against Tottenham: “That I do not know because he has to prove himself. Every player has to prove himself and also Bastian Schweinsteiger. He shall play against Paris Saint-Germain I expect. Let us hope that he convinces me!”

On Angel Di Maria, Marcos Rojo and Javier Hernandez joining the tour: "I have heard that he [Di Maria] is not on the plane so I cannot say anything. He was not on the plane, and Marcos Rojo was also not on the plane. He has passport issues, that I do know. But Di Maria, I do not know why. Chicharito is here.”

A meeting of giants
25/7/2015

Wayne Rooney and Jesse Lingard scored on both sides of halftime to lead Manchester United to a 3–1 victory over FC Barcelona in the International Champions Cup, played before 68,416 fans at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.

Rafinha got Barça on the board in the 90th minute with a breathtaking volley but their hopes of drawing level were quickly dashed when United’s Adnan Januzaj reciprocated at the other end a minute later.

First defeat     The defeat is Barça’s first of the preseason and comes on the heels of an opening game victory over the Los Angeles Galaxy. Following the loss, the Catalans will fly to Washington DC where they’ll face Chelsea in their final game on American soil on Tuesday at 8.00pm ET.

Saturday’s game was played on a gorgeous afternoon for football, with abundant sunshine and a game time temperature of 74ºF/23ºC, made even more pleasant by a light breeze out of the northwest.

Rooney’s goal came in the eighth minute when the England international redirected a corner kick past Barça goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen for a 1–0 lead.

Earthquakes Fall to Manchester United 3-1 in ICC
7/22/2015

The San Jose Earthquakes dueled with Manchester United on Tuesday night at Avaya Stadium as part of the International Champions Cup North America Presented by Guinness, falling 3-1 to the English Premier League side. San Jose midfielder Fatai Alashe tallied the club's lone goal, becoming the first Earthquake to score against United in club history.

Manchester United broke the deadlock in the 32nd minute. Forward Wayne Rooney sent midfielder Ashley Young down the left flank with a long through ball. Young cut the ball back and passed to midfielder Juan Mata, who sent a flick off the far post and in. 

Five minutes later, midfielder Memphis Depay intercepted a pass and was able to finish off a one-on-one with Quakes keeper David Bingham.

In the 42nd minute, San Jose cut the deficit in half. Midfielder Shea Salinas slipped by his defender near the corner flag and laid a pass off to midfielder Fatai Alashe, who slotted his first-timed attempt past keeper Sam Johnstone.

At halftime, the clubs made numerous lineup changes. San Jose substituted nine of its 10 field players, leaving only Alashe, while United replaced all 10.

United doubled its advantage in the 61st minute on the head of midfielder Andreas Pereira. Midfielder Ander Herrera laid the ball off for Jesse Lingard. His cross was headed by midfielder Andreas Pereira past Bingham and into the back of the net.

The Earthquakes newest signing, Marc Pelosi, nearly gave the home side a second goal in his team debut. In the 71st minute, he took control of the ball, cut onto his left foot and blasted a shot from 20 yards out that sailed just high.

Club America rallies to beat Earthquakes 2-1
7/14/2015

Andres Andrade and Francisco Rivera scored scored second-half goals to help Club America prevail at Avaya Stadium in the International Champions Cup. Clarence Goodson headed in the Earthquakes' goal in the 23rd minute.

Barcelona beat Juve 3-1 in classic for fifth European crown
6/6/2015

Barcelona were crowned kings of Europe for the fifth time after beating Juventus 3-1 in a superb Champions League final at the Olympic Stadium on Saturday, capping their magnificent season with a treble of titles.

Goals from Ivan Rakitic in the fourth minute, Luis Suarez in the 68th and Brazilian Neymar at the end of stoppage time sealed the Catalans' second treble, following their feat in 2009, after they also won the La Liga title and Spanish King's Cup.

It was a bitter evening for Juve, who became the first team in the history of the competition to lose six finals in total, having also now been defeated in their last four.

Barca overcame a nervous start when a sublime combination, in which all 10 outfield players touched the ball, eventually saw Neymar feed captain Andres Iniesta, who picked out Rakitic to score the fourth fastest goal in a European Cup final.

Juve goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon, who won the World Cup in Berlin's Olympic stadium in 2006 with Italy, denied Barcelona a second goal in the 13th minute with a superb one-handed save to keep out a Dani Alves shot.

The 38-year-old stopper again came to the rescue three minutes after the restart and Juve then grabbed an equaliser against the run of play through former Real Madrid striker Alvaro Morata.

However, Juve's joy was short-lived as Lionel Messi had an effort that Buffon could only parry to Suarez who followed up with an almost identical goal to the Italians'.

Neymar then had a goal disallowed after his header bounced off his own outstretched hand to deceive the diving Buffon, much to the Brazil forward's frustration.

Juventus, the second oldest team in a European final with an average age of just over 30, fought bravely but ran out of steam as Neymar scored with the last kick in stoppage time. 

Bayern can't expect a Porto miracle - Mueller
7/5/2015

Thomas Mueller says Bayern Munich fans can not expect another miracle fight-back, like they saw against Porto, following their 3-0 semi-final drubbing at Barcelona in the Champions League.

Lionel Messi's inspired performance saw Barca score all three goals in the final 17 minutes with the midfield maestro netting twice in three minutes to stun Pep Guardiola's Bayern before putting Neymar through to score the hosts' third goal.

Messi's magical footwork at the Camp Nou for his second left Germany defender Jerome Boateng flat on the turf in a move former England international Jamie Redknapp described as "almost illegal".

"They completely fell apart, that should have never happened," fumed Bayern's honorary president Franz Beckenbauer.

"It would be a sensation now to turn this around."

The defeat means the Germans must score at least three goals in the return at Munich's Allianz Arena on Tuesday to reach the June 6 final in Berlin.

But Mueller said their fans can forget another fight-back which saw Bayern reach the semi-finals with a 6-1 quarter-final drubbing of Porto at home having lost 3-1 away.

"You can expect the return leg to go the way it did against Porto, but the 11 guys on the pitch will give their all once more until the last second," said Mueller, who argued with Guardiola after his second-half substitution.

"Now we have to stand together as a team.

"We are FC Bayern and we'll keep our heads up."

Bayern's dreams of a treble-winning season have evaporated in a little over a week after their German Cup semi-final exit on penalties to Borussia Dortmund last Tuesday and their heavy defeat in Barcelona having wrapped up their 25th Bundesliga title 10 days ago.

While it is mathematically possible for Bayern to progress, they need a footballing miracle similar to Deportivo La Coruna's 4-0 rout of AC Milan, having lost the first-leg 4-1 in Italy, in the 2004 quarter-finals.

But no side has ever come back from losing the first-leg 3-0 in the semi-final of the Champions League or European Cup -- especially against Barcelona.

'Never say never'

"The last drop of hope is the game against Porto," inisted Bayern's optimistic goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.

"Never say never."

But Guardiola said Messi made the difference as the Argentinian ruined Pep's homecoming on his return after winning 14 trophies in four years with Barcelona from 2008-12.

"We did well for a long period," said Guardiola before the game fell dramatically away from his team on 77 minutes.

"We wanted to control the game and keep the ball away from Barcelona as much as possible -- which we did.

"But Messi simply made the difference and it's a pity we conceded the third goal.

"The return leg will now be complicated, but we will fight hard."

Injuries have cost Bayern dearly in recent weeks with wingers Arjen Robben, who has scored 19 goals this season before tearing stomach muscles, then his calf on his return, and Franck Ribery both sidelined.

Striker Robert Lewandowski played with a mask in Barcelona after fracturing his cheekbone and nose in the defeat to Dortmund.

"You can't complain about the way the team has performed up until now, they fight and give everything," said Bayern's director of sport Matthias Sammer.

"Against Barcelona, we were pushed to the limits because of the whole situation.

"We stood up well for 77 minutes against a team that is at the top of its game and are probably the best in Europe.

"We lost a bit of our order at the end and tried too hard.

"We'll be at home in the return leg and our fans need to get behind us.

"We need to shake off this defeat and digest the result."

Bayern set to play Barcelona in Champions League semifinals
24/4/2015

German Bundesliga side Bayern Munich are set to take on Spanish club FC Barcelona in their Champions League semifinal on May 6. That was the result of a semifinals draw in Nyon in Switzerland on Friday.

In the other semi, Italian Serie A side Juventus will play last year's Champions League winners Real Madrid.

Speaking directly after the draw, Bayern's sporting director Matthias Sammer said that his team's chances were "50-50" against Barca.

"I had the feeling that we would get Barcelona in the draw," Sammer said to gathered journalists at the club's headquarters in Munich. "Only football writes these sorts of scripts. I'm looking forward to it."

The return leg of the tie will be played on May 12 in Munich. The Champions League final, due to take place on June 6, is set to take place in Berlin at the city's Olympic Stadium.

Chicharito's 88th-minute goal sends Real to semis after win over Atletico
22/4/2015

Holders Real Madrid kept alive their dream of a record-extending 11th European crown when Javier Hernandez's late strike against 10-man Atletico Madrid secured a 1-0 win and a Champions League semi-final place on Wednesday.
 
After last week's quarter-final first leg at the Calderon ended 0-0, a tense return at the Bernabeu appeared to be heading for extra time until James Rodriguez slipped a pass through to Cristiano Ronaldo in the 88th minute.
 
The Portugal forward unselfishly squared for Hernandez and the Mexican striker stroked the ball past Atletico goalkeeper Jan Oblak to secure a 1-0 aggregate victory, Real's first win over Atletico in eight matches this season.
 
It was a bitter blow for Atletico, who went toe to toe with the team that beat them in last year's final until their Turkey playmaker Arda Turan was dismissed for a second booking 14 minutes from time and Hernandez applied the killer blow.
 
Real coach Carlo Ancelotti, missing injured regulars Gareth Bale, Karim Benzema and Luka Modric, started with Hernandez up front with Ronaldo and centre back Sergio Ramos pushed forward into a defensive midfield role.
 
Seeking to become the first team to retain the trophy in the Champions League era, Real had the upper hand in terms of possession and chances in a cagey first half.
 
Ronaldo forced a good save from Oblak with a 32nd-minute free kick before racing through with a clear site of goal a minute before halftime.
 
Oblak was again equal to the challenge, racing out to block Ronaldo's fierce shot and deflect the ball away for a corner.
 
Real threatened immediately at the start of the second period when Isco threaded a pass through for Hernandez but he scuffed his shot wide of the far post.
 
Atletico hopes suffered a massive blow when Arda picked up a second yellow for a foot-up challenge on Ramos and he was distraught as he trudged off to a cacophony of whistles.
 
The draw for the semi-finals is on Friday, with Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Juventus joining Real in the pot.

Guardiola weathers first Bayern Munich storm in style
21/4/2015

Bayern Munich coach Pep Guardiola weathered his first major crisis at the German club, coming out stronger after his team crushed Porto 7-4 on aggregate on Tuesday to move into the Champions League last four.

The Spaniard in his second season in charge was with his back to the wall after their surprise 3-1 first leg defeat in Portugal last week.

Never had one of his teams lost before the semi-finals in the competition but that prospect suddenly seemed real.

Damned to succeed, Guardiola repeatedly said he was aware of what he needed to deliver at the five-time European champions for whom a league and German Cup double was just not enough.

He arrived at Bayern after their 2013 treble-winning season and expectations have not been lowered since. A semi-final exit last season only heightened pressure on Guardiola to deliver another treble this time round.

But plagued by injuries in recent months and a rare internal strife after long-time team doctor Hans-Wilhelm Mueller-Wohlfahrt quit after 38 years, saying his medical team was blamed for the loss to Porto, Bayern had a far-from-perfect preparation.

The doctor is hugely respected by Bayern players with many saying they would continue taking his advice and Guardiola suddenly in the firing line for allegedly falling out with a Bayern icon.

Failure to advance against Porto would have added to an already difficult week and would no doubt fan speculation about the coach's future in Munich despite having a contract to 2016.

With Premier League clubs circling, a slip-up on Tuesday could prove decisive for both the club and the coach.

But the Spaniard, who won 14 titles in his four seasons at Barcelona, thrived under adverse conditions with his team playing arguably their best game this season, even without injured Arjen Robben, Franck Ribery, Bastian Schweinsteiger and David Alaba.

"I felt it in the last few days that we would advance," Guardiola said after Bayern fired five goals in 26 first-half minutes.

"This is about life or death and I know how very important it was," he said. "I know what is expected of me in this team. It is about winning just like at Barcelona."

Fans are now dreaming of a trophy on German soil in June's final in Berlin and with players gradually returning from injury, Guardiola is confident Bayern will further improve.

"We can play even better," he said in what is no doubt a warning to other title contenders. "After the loss in Porto the players were my heroes. Now it's easy to love them."

Atletico face Real in Champions League quarter-final
14/4/2015

Last season's Champions League finalists Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid meet for the seventh time this season in Tuesday's Champions League quarter-final, first leg with revenge in mind for both.

Real took the spoils in Lisbon last May as Sergio Ramos's stoppage time header denied Atletico their first ever European Cup and sent the game into extra time when Los Blancos romped to a 4-1 win.

However, the tables have been turned this season as Atletico have won four and drawn two of the six meetings so far this season.

That run has included two aggregate victories over two legs in the Spanish Supercup and the Copa del Rey.

Yet, it was their last encounter in La Liga in February that was the most embarrassing for Real as Atletico romped to their biggest victory in a Madrid derby for 28 years in a 4-0 rout.

"The last result against Atletico is a motivating factor for us," said Real boss Carlo Ancelotti.

"It will be a different game, but difficult as it always is against Atletico.

"We come into the game in good form, we are motivated and we will give everything we have.

"I don't have any doubt that it will be an intense game.

"That will be an important component of the game, but there will also be others that we need to utilise."

However, unlike that most recent meeting at the Vicente Calderon when they were without five first-team regulars, Real are at full strength for the first time in five months.

James Rodriguez and Toni Kroos return from suspension after missing Saturday's 3-0 win over Eibar which moved Real back to within two points of Barcelona at the top of La Liga.

Meanwhile, Gareth Bale returned to training on Sunday and is expected to fit to start.

Atletico have received a huge injury boost of their own with the news that Mario Mandzukic will be available after overcoming an ankle problem which kept him out of their last two games.

The Croatian has scored 20 goals since signing from Bayern Munich last summer, including two in three games against Madrid at the Calderon.

Raul Garcia is also expected to recover from an elbow problem meaning Diego Simeone will also have a fully-fit squad to choose from.

However, the Argentine has a number of key decisions to make, most notably in goal where the in-form Jan Oblak kept his place ahead of the fit again Miguel Angel Moya for Saturday's 2-2 draw at Malaga and in central defence where Jose Maria Gimenez and Miranda will battle it out to partner Diego Godin.

The draw at Malaga extended Atletico's unbeaten run in all competitions to eight games, albeit with four draws along the way.

Most encouragingly for Simeone's men is the return to goalscoring form of Antoine Griezmann. The Frenchman scored twice at La Rosaleda to take his tally over the last three games to four and move one ahead of Mandzukic at Atletico's top scorer this season.

Real Madrid to face Atletico in repeat of last season's final
20/3/2015

Atletico Madrid were handed a chance to avenge last season's Champions League final defeat by city rivals and record 10-times winners Real after the two sides were drawn together in the last eight on Friday.

Paris St Germain and Barcelona were paired together having met in the group stage, with the French side winning in Paris and the Catalans coming out on top in Spain.

Porto will face 2013 champions Bayern Munich and Juventus take on Monaco in the other ties.

The fixtures will be played on April 14/15 and April 21/22, with PSG, Atletico, Porto and Juventus playing the first legs at home.

Real won last year's final 4-1 after extra time against their local rivals, but Atletico's superb recent record against their more illustrious neighbours will give them huge cause for optimism.

The teams have met six times in all competitions this season with Real Madrid yet to register a win, while last year's final was Real's only victory in the last eight derbies.

Carlo Ancelotti's side have drawn three and lost four of those eight games while the last Madrid derby ended in a 4-0 win for Atletico, their biggest victory against their rivals since 1987.

Real's recent form has also been less than impressive having ceded the advantage in La Liga to Barcelona and suffered a surprise wobble in the last 16 against Schalke 04 when they slumped to a 4-3 defeat at the Bernabeu to squeeze through 5-4 on aggregate.

"Atletico are a very competitive team," Real director Emilio Butragueno told Canal Plus.

"But we are Real Madrid, we are defending the title and we will try to perform well enough to get through the tie."

Porto's clash with Bayern is a repeat of the 1987 final when the Portuguese side came out on top 2-1 in Vienna.

Bayern will start as overwhelming favourites, however, against an inexperienced Porto side, with the Germans offering a potent reminder of their pedigree in a devastating 7-0 drubbing of Shakhtar Donetsk in the last 16.

Salah helps Fiorentina crush Roma to reach Europa League quarters
20/3/2015

The Egyptian wingers failed to score in Fiorentina's 3-0 win over Roma at the Olimpico as he hit the woodwork twice

Fiorentina have reached the Europa League last eight after demolishing AS Roma 3-0 at the Stadio Olimpico on Thursday.

The Viola scored three goals in the opening 22 minutes to set up a 3-0 away win over struggling Roma with the all-Italian matchup finishing 4-1 on aggregate.

Egyptian winger Mohamed Salah, who is back in the starting eleven after being rested against AC Milan last Monday, missed out the chance to increase the score line, twice.

Just after the interval the in-form forward made a splendid run for 40 yards, brushing aside a couple of defenders, only to smash his shot against the crossbar.

In the 77th minute his left-foot shot was rejected by the post to keep his tally at 6 goals in 10 games in all competitions since joining Fiorentina in January.

Elsewhere, Napoli defended stoutly to draw 0-0 with Dinamo Moscow and progress 3-1 on aggregate, reaching the quarterfinals of a European competition for the first time since 1989 — the year it won the UEFA Cup.

Everton was thrashed 5-2 at Dynamo Kiev to fall out 6-4 on aggregate. Arsenal and Manchester City were knocked out of the Champions League this week.

Real Madrid need Ronaldo at his best for Clasico
19/3/2015

Real Madrid need Cristiano Ronaldo to channel his frustration into producing his top form as they face Barcelona in a top-of-the-table 'Clasico' showdown on Sunday that could decide the title race.

The Portuguese has struck a moody figure in recent weeks as Real struggled to recapture the blistering form that allowed them to set a Spanish record of 22 successive wins before the winter break.

Barcelona have capitalised on recent stumbles by Real, who have won only one of their last three league games, and earlier this month climbed to the top of La Liga for the first time since November.

Just weeks after holding a four-point lead over Barca, Real now trail their bitter enemies by a point and Carlo Ancelotti's men cannot afford any more slip-ups if they want to win a record extending 33rd La Liga title.

Ronaldo will also be eager to upstage Lionel Messi when the league's top two strikers – who have scored 62 goals between them – face off in the highly anticipated clash.

When the duo headed off for their winter breaks in December, Ronaldo topped the standings with 25 goals while Messi had netted 15 times.

But following a remarkable few months, the Argentine is now in front with 32 to Ronaldo's 30.

Such is Ronaldo's competitive nature that he has looked exasperated during games that have not gone Real's way.

Ronaldo's irritation was clear for all to see last week when he was seen saying "how embarrassing" Real were to teammate Karim Benzema following their 4-3 defeat by Schalke in the Champions League.

While Real squeezed through to the Champions League quarterfinals thanks to an aggregate 5-4 win, they are unlikely to get a reprieve in La Liga if they are trumped by Barcelona, who are on a six-match winning streak in all competitions.

Barca swept aside the challenge of Manchester City to book a place in the last eight of the Champions League on Wednesday, but midfielder Andres Iniesta refused to tag his side as favourites for the Clasico clash.

"There have been Clasicos where everything has happened and it is not down to how the teams are playing beforehand," he told reporters. "I don't think Madrid are playing badly and this is an important game for us against a direct rival."

Monaco concede two goals but survive Arsenal scare in Champions League
17/3/2015

Monaco rode their luck and survived an Arsenal onslaught to reach the Champions League quarter-finals on away goals after a 2-0 home defeat saw the tie finish 3-3 on aggregate on Tuesday.

Arsenal, looking to become the first team to overcome a two-goal home first-leg deficit in the Champions League, came agonisingly close to progressing after Olivier Giroud and substitute Aaron Ramsey scored in each half.

But the principality side's 3-1 win at the Emirates was just enough to see them through after Monaco keeper Danijel Subasic spectacularly denied striker Giroud five minutes from time.

The hosts took a cautious approach as they tried to preserve their first-leg lead, failing to get a single shot on target, and were fortunate to make it into the last eight.

Arsenal got off to a sluggish start in the last 16, second leg but Monaco struggled to contain them once Arsene Wenger's determined team got into their stride.

The London side had the first clear chance but Giroud's header from Hector Bellerin's cross went just wide of the top corner.

Arsenal's Laurent Koscielny came closer in the 23rd minute when he blasted the ball against the bar from a few metres out although the France defender was harshly adjudged to be offside even though the ball came to him from a Monaco head.

Giroud strikes

Arsenal stepped up the pressure and were rewarded in the 36th when Subasic denied Giroud, only for the ball to fall into the path of the France forward who fired into the roof of the net.

A wave of panic then hit the Monaco players and Arsenal forward Danny Welbeck's attempt from just outside the area was blocked by defender Aymen Abdennour.

Welbeck and Giroud were again denied as Monaco rode their luck to reach the break only one goal down on the night.

Subasic was made to work again seven minutes into the second half, tipping Mesut Ozil's free kick over the bar.

Monaco suddenly unleashed a flurry of attacks around the hour mark but the Arsenal defence, marshalled by Koscielny, held firm.

Wenger brought on attacking midfielder Ramsey for the more defensive Francis Coquelin in the 62nd, shortly before Monaco coach Leonardo Jardim took the opposite approach by replacing striker Dimitar Berbatov with midfielder Bernardo Silva.

Theo Walcott was then brought on for Welbeck as Arsenal pushed for a second goal, which came in the 79th when Ramsey fired a low shot past Subasic after Walcott had hit the post. 

Barcelona beat Granada to close in on Real Madrid
28/2/2015

Barcelona moved to within a point of Real Madrid at the top of La Liga as Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi were on target in a 3-1 win at Granada on Saturday.

Ivan Rakitic opened the scoring for the visitors as he profited from a mishit Suarez shot before halftime and Suarez himself then prodded in the second just after the break.

Fran Rico's penalty briefly gave Granada hope, but Suarez teed up Messi to make the points safe 20 minutes from time.

Real can restore a four-point gap over the Catalans when they host Villarreal on Sunday.

Barca boss Luis Enrique rotated his squad once more as he made four changes from the side that beat Manchester City in midweek and it took Barca some time to get into their stride at Nuevo Los Carmenes.

Xavi was one of those returning to the starting line-up and he forced former Barca 'keeper Oier Olazabal into his first serious save from a rasping drive from the edge of the area.

Granada's offside trap frustrated Barca in the early stages, but they were caught flat-footed for the opener on 25 minutes as Luis Suarez was played in by Jordi Alba and the Uruguayan's mishit shot fell perfectly off the unfortunate Cala for Rakitic to slam home.

Messi came within inches of a stunning second 10 minutes before the break as he controlled the ball instantly on his left-foot before flashing a right-footed volley over the bar at the end of a flowing counter-attack.

However, the hosts were unlucky not to be level at halftime as the referee turned down huge penalty appeals when Dimitri Foulquier tumbled under pressure from Marc Bartra.

And moments later Claudio Bravo was forced into a stunning save to turn Javi Marquez's low shot behind for a corner.

Three minutes after the break, though, Suarez gave Barca the cushion they desired when he latched onto Rakitic's through ball and slotted home with the outside of his right foot.

Granada were handed a lifeline just four minutes later when this time Bartra was penalised for a foul on Lass Bangoura and Rico thumped the resultant spot-kick past Bravo.

Yet, in their push for an equaliser, Granada left more space in behind for Barcelona to exploit in the closing stages and were picked off again by a Rakitic pass into Suarez. The former Liverpool man then rode a challenge from Oier before squaring for Messi to roll the ball into the unguarded net.

Manchester United beat Sunderland 2-0, wrong player sent off
28/2/2015

Wayne Rooney ended his Premier League goal drought with a brace as Manchester United beat 10-man Sunderland 2-0 at Old Trafford.

United's win was overshadowed when referee Roger East dismissed the wrong Black Cats player after awarding United a penalty.

Radamel Falco was felled by John O'Shea but it was his teammate Wes Brown who was sent off. Rooney converted in the 66th to end his eight-game barren spell in front of goal, before adding a second from close range in the 85th.

United labored in the first half with Sunderland creating chances for strikers Jermain Defoe and Connor Wickham, but neither capitalized.

The hosts almost took the lead courtesy of one of their former players, with O'Shea deflecting Ashley Young's shot against his own bar in the 25th.

Lazio came back to beat visiting AC Milan
24/1/2015

Lazio came back to beat visiting AC Milan 3-1 and move into third place in Serie A on Saturday.

Jeremy Menez put Milan ahead four minutes in at the Stadio Olimpico but Lazio — which has lost only once in eight matches — stormed back in the second half with goals from Marco Parolo in the 47th and 81st and Miroslav Klose in the 51st.

Klose also set up Parolo's equalizer.

Lazio moved one point ahead of Napoli, which hosts Genoa on Monday.

Milan remained 10th.

Ronaldo off in Real Madrid win as Barcelona hit six
24/1/2015

Cristiano Ronaldo was sent off for kicking out at an opponent but Real Madrid still beat Cordoba 2-1 away on Saturday while Barcelona kept on their heels with a 6-0 romp at Elche.

Real remain top with 48 points, one more than Barca and also with a game in hand, but the loss of world player of the year Ronaldo through a ban could cause problems.

"I am sorry to everyone and especially to Edimar for my impulsive act in today’s game," Ronaldo said on his Twitter account.

His great rival Lionel Messi and Neymar hit second-half braces for Barca after Gerard Pique celebrated his 200th La Liga appearance with a volley that clipped off Domingo Cisma and into the roof of the net 10 minutes before the break.

Valencia beat Real Madrid in Spain's La Liga
4/1/2015

Valencia duo Antonio Barragan and Nicolas Otamendi scored two goals to end Real Madrid's 22-win streak on Sunday


Valencia ended Real Madrid's 22-game winning streak by fighting back for a 2-1 victory on Sunday that throws open the Spanish league title race.

Cristiano Ronaldo extended his stunning tally to 26 league goals in the 14th minute at Mestalla Stadium when he stroked in a penalty kick following Alvaro Negredo's handball.

But the hosts rallied through a goal by Antonio Barragan in the 52nd before defender Nicolas Otamendi fended off Sergio Ramos to head home the 65th-minute winner.

Madrid still has a game in hand, but Barcelona can take the provisional lead with a win at Real Sociedad later. Defending champion Atletico Madrid was also left one point behind the pacesetters.

Valencia's first win in six visits by Madrid lifted it into fourth place.

Real Madrid expect Rodriguez return for Club World Cup
11/12/2014

Real Madrid's James Rodriguez has started running again after a calf injury and could return in time to help his side in the Club World Cup next week, coach Carlo Ancelotti said on Thursday.

The Colombian picked up the injury in last weekend's 3-0 win against Celta Vigo in La Liga and will not feature against Almeria on Friday, when the reigning European champions chase a 20th successive victory.

Ancelotti indicated that he will also be unable to play in the Club World Cup semi-final, against either Cruz Azul of Mexico or Australian side Western Sydney Wanderers next Tuesday, but said that he should be able to feature in the final, should Madrid qualify.

"He has had a little problem and we want to get him back for the last match of the Club World Cup," said the Italian.

"He started working today (Thursday) and we hope he will be able to join the rest of the squad again next Thursday."

The final of the Club World Cup will be played on Saturday, December 20. Should Madrid lose their semi-final, they will still go through to a third-place play-off earlier the same day.

Ronaldo hits 3 as Real Madrid snatch 18th straight win
6/12/2014

Cristiano Ronaldo turned in another multi-goal performance by scoring three goals to lead Real Madrid to a record-tying 3-0 win over Celta Vigo in the Spanish league on Saturday.

Ronaldo's 21st, 22nd and 23rd goals through 14 rounds ensured Madrid claimed its 18th consecutive victory across all competitions, matching a milestone for Spanish teams established by Barcelona in 2005-06.

Madrid maintained the league lead, four points ahead of Atletico Madrid after the defending champions won 2-0 at Elche. Barcelona, trailing Madrid by five points, hosts Espanyol on Sunday.

Ronaldo opened at the Santiago Bernabeu from the penalty spot in the 36th minute after he fell following light contact with a defender. He struck again in the 65th and 81st.

Mourinho defiant despite Chelsea setback
6/12/2014

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho insisted his side were still the team to beat despite the Premier League leaders seeing their unbeaten start to the season ended by Newcastle United.

Saturday's dramatic 2-1 setback against 10-man Newcastle, their first loss since April, saw Chelsea fall one game short of setting a club-record mark of 24 matches without defeat.

More damagingly, it allowed defending champions Manchester City to close to within three points of Mourinho's side by winning 1-0 at home to Everton.

But the Chelsea manager said he was relaxed after Papiss Cisse's brace condemned his team to a third consecutive defeat on Tyneside.

"We were unlucky and Newcastle had the luck, but I have no complaints towards my players and how they went about the game," said Mourinho, whose side hit back through Didier Drogba.

"It's one defeat, but it's the kind of defeat which I can accept a little more, because I have no problem with the way my players played.

"It would have been so very difficult to go through the season unbeaten as so many people had suggested. But even after this defeat, we have to ask the other 19 teams in the Premier League if they'd like to be in our position? I think they would.

"We were unlucky, that's all. The best team lost. The team that tried to win lost. That's football. It's a lucky day for them, and an unlucky one for us, but that's how it goes sometimes.

"We conceded goals the only time they crossed the halfway line. I don't criticise their approach. You need luck to play that way and win, but they had and I have no problems with that."

Mourinho was unhappy with what he saw as Newcastle's time-wasting tactics, even accusing their ball boys of being part of a strategy to run down the clock during the six minutes of added time.

"We wanted to play more football, but it wasn't possible due to a few things happening that I thought didn't belong to top-level football now," he said.

"The ball comes, then the ball goes and the ball boys run away. The ball disappears, then when the replacement ball comes, the first one comes back as well.

"There should have been more stoppage time, but it's hard for the referee to keep track of."

Victory for Newcastle, who were reduced to 10 men late on after a second yellow card for defender Steven Taylor, was the perfect way for manager Alan Pardew to celebrate his impending fourth anniversary at the club.

"I can't praise my players enough," he said. "We've done the rest of the Premier League a favour by beating Chelsea. We've given everyone a gee-up and made it more interesting.

"It's a two-horse race between Chelsea and Manchester City, but this has made it more interesting."

Rookie goalkeeper Jak Alnwick, 21, came off the bench at halftime for the injured Rob Elliot and played a pivotal role in the win on his senior debut.

"Robbie had been struggling and he hasn't really trained, so Jak was half-prepared to come on," Pardew said.

"He showed nerves of steel and gave me so much confidence watching from the sidelines. He'll definitely win our cool dude award at the Christmas party. He's a north-east hero tonight."

Aguero one of world's top five players, says Manchester city boss
4/12/2014

Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero is one of the best five players in the world, his manager Manuel Pellegrini said after his team's 4-1 Premier League win at Sunderland on Wednesday.

City fell 1-0 down to their recent bogey team before Argentine Aguero equalised and he struck again to complete the rout with his 14th league goal of the season.

"He is just 26 years old and he can improve every day," Pellegrini told reporters. I think he is in the five top players in the world. He is scoring but he is also playing well."

Pellegrini also hailed the performances of midfielders Yaya Toure and Samir Nasri after champions City consolidated their position in second place in the table, six points behind leaders Chelsea.

"Yaya played very well. Nasri after his injury gave a very high performance. All the team is having more trust but we must continue to do it," Pellegrini said.

Sunderland manager Gus Poyet was philosophical after the defeat, only the north-east club's second in seven games against Manchester City.

"I can't have too many complaints - they were better than us in every aspect of the game," Poyet said.

"We started well, but then Aguero appears from nowhere and does something special.

"Sometimes you cannot complain too much - they were quicker and they were better technically."

Costa scores winner as Chelsea beat Liverpool
8/11/2014

Diego Costa's second-half goal earned Chelsea a 2-1 win over Liverpool on Saturday as the unbeaten leader negotiated another tough test in its relentless challenge for the Premier League title.

Dropped by Spain on Friday to allow him to recover from a string of nagging injuries, Costa started at Anfield and drove home his 10th league goal of the season in the 67th minute after Cesar Azpilicueta's cross was parried out.

Chelsea had to come from behind to secure a ninth victory in 11 games after German midfielder Emre Can scored for Liverpool from a deflected shot in the ninth minute.

Gary Cahill equalized with a scrappy goal from a corner in the 14th.

Chelsea started the weekend four points clear of second-placed Southampton.

Manchester United beat Crystal Palace in Premier Leagu
8/11/2014

Juan Mata came on as a substitute to score in the 67th minute and give Manchester United a much-needed 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace in the Premier League on Saturday.

Just four minutes after coming on for Adnan Januzaj, the United midfielder curled a deflected shot past Julian Speroni to hand Louis van Gaal's team its first win in four matches. It was another lackluster display, however, and United's expensively assembled attacking lineup struggled to crack open the visitors' defense for large parts of the match.

Fraizer Campbell wasted a great chance to score for Palace against his old team in the first half, and United hung on for a rare clean sheet that lifted it up to a provisional fifth place.

Louis van Gaal: Man Utd in a process that could last 'three years'
7/11/2014

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal says it could take three years for the club to reach their full potential.

After losing 1-0 to Manchester City, United have taken just 13 points from their opening 10 games, their worst start to a league campaign since 1986.

"It's not good enough," Van Gaal, 63, said. "But on the other hand, we are in a process, as I have said from the beginning.

"The process shall take more than one year; it shall take three years."

"I feel for the fans in the first place and the board because they have a great belief in me, my staff and my players," he added.

Chelsea equal club record after mighty Maribor scare
5/11/2014

Chelsea stretched their unbeaten start to the season to a club record-equalling 16 games with a 1-1 Champions League draw against Maribor on Wednesday but the 2012 winners were given a mighty scare.

The Slovenian upstarts, destroyed 6-0 by Chelsea at Stamford Bridge two weeks ago, took the lead in the 50th minute when Macedonia winger Agim Ibraimi curled in a spectacular left-foot shot from the corner of the box.

Maribor had a great chance to make it 2-0 on the hour when the unmarked Luka Zahovic blazed the ball over the bar from six metres with an open goal at his mercy.

Chelsea suddenly upped the tempo and it came as no surprise when Nemanja Matic equalised with a tap-in at the far post after captain John Terry had headed on a right-wing corner from Cesc Fabregas.

Ronaldo leads Real Madrid's 3-1 comeback over Barcelona
25/10/2014

Real Madrid trimmed Barcelona's lead at the top of La Liga to one point when they recovered from conceding an early goal to secure a stirring 3-1 comeback win in the 'Clasico' on Saturday.

Neymar stunned a packed and hostile Bernabeu with a superb goal to give Barca a fourth-minute lead before Cristiano Ronaldo levelled with a penalty in the 35th, the first goal the Catalan side had conceded in nine league outings this term.

Pepe made it 2-1 to the European champions six minutes into the second half and a misunderstanding between Andres Iniesta and Javier Mascherano led to Real's third after the hour when Karim Benzema finished off a swift break with a clinical strike.

Barca are top with 22 points and Real, who had an early-season wobble but have been in scintillating form in recent weeks, second on 21. Sevilla, who host Villarreal on Sunday, are third with 19.

There was no dream return for Luis Suarez, making his Barca debut after a four-month ban for biting an opponent at the World Cup.

The Uruguay forward looked reasonably sharp and had a hand in Neymar's goal but did not come close to scoring himself before being replaced by Pedro midway through the second half.

Barca's four-times World Player of the Year Lionel Messi also had a quiet night by his standards and remains one goal short of the La Liga scoring record of 251 goals set by former Athletic Bilbao forward Telmo Zarra six decades ago.

FIRST BLOOD

In a match watched by millions around the globe and showcasing many of the world's best and most expensive players, Barca drew first blood with a splendid effort from Neymar, the Brazil captain's ninth of the season.

Suarez picked him out on the left wing with a raking pass and Neymar skipped past challenges from Dani Carvajal and Pepe before firing into the corner past Iker Casillas.

Real immediately upped their game and Benzema came close to a leveller when he headed against the crossbar before smashing the rebound off the corner of the goal frame.

Casillas pulled off a superb save to deny Messi in the 23rd minute after Suarez had sent over a teasing low cross and Pepe cleared just as Neymar was preparing to nod home before Real were awarded a penalty.

Barca centre back Gerard Pique slipped and handled a Marcelo cross and Ronaldo sent Claudio Bravo the wrong way for his 16th La Liga goal in eight appearances this season.

It was the 11th consecutive game the Portugal forward has scored for Real, his best run since joining from Manchester United in 2009.

Real edged ahead six minutes into the second half when Pepe was given too much space at a corner and headed powerfully past Bravo and Barca then shot themselves in the foot with a bizarre blunder by Iniesta and Mascherano near the edge of the pitch that gifted possession to Isco.

The Spain playmaker raced clear and the ball eventually found its way to Benzema who smashed it past Bravo off a post.

It was no more than Real deserved and although Barca pressed hard to force a way back into the game they barely troubled the home goal again.

It was Real's 71st victory in 169 La Liga 'Clasicos' since the arch rivals first clashed in the Spanish top flight in 1929. Barca have won 66 with 32 draws. 

Free-scoring Ronaldo has Messi record in his sights
6/10/2014

Not content with setting a record of 17 goals for one edition of the Champions League last season, Cristiano Ronaldo is already well on the way towards breaking Lionel Messi's La Liga best haul of 50 goals in one campaign.

Ronaldo netted his third hat-trick this term in Sunday's 5-0 drubbing of a sorry Athletic Bilbao at the Bernabeu, taking his overall tally to an outrageous 13 in six appearances in 2014-15.

It was the Portuguese World Player of the Year's 22nd treble for the European champions, equalling the La Liga record jointly held by Alfredo Di Stefano and Telmo Zarra, and putting him three clear of Barcelona forward Messi's hat-trick haul.

On a night when he again appeared simply unstoppable, Ronaldo unselfishly set up Karim Benzema to score and Gareth Bale made two assists as Real's formidable attacking trio known as "BBC" destroyed the struggling Basque side.

"The three up front played fantastically," coach Carlo Ancelotti purred at his post-match news conference.

"When they are in that kind of mood they are fundamental for the team," added the Italian.

Ronaldo broke Messi's four-year stranglehold on the FIFA Ballon d'Or when he was voted 2013 World Player of the Year and Ancelotti said he had little doubt the Portuguese would claim his second straight award and third overall when the 2014 winner is announced in January.

"This year, I don't think there is much doubt," Ancelotti said. "I don't think there's any point in even talking about it."

Messi is the only player who can come close to challenging Ronaldo and the Argentina captain's performance at the World Cup, when he led the South American nation to the final, may give him an edge.

Ronaldo, who was clearly struggling with injury, had a subdued finals in Brazil as Portugal failed to advance beyond the group stage.

One negative side to Sunday's easy win for Real, which lifted them above champions Atletico Madrid into fourth, was an apparent injury to Sergio Ramos which forced the Spain centre back off at halftime.

"He was feeling discomfort in his right calf and we preferred to avoid any problems," Ancelotti said.

"Tomorrow, tests will be conducted and then he will join up with the national team and they will evaluate his fitness."

After the international break, Real's next La Liga outing is at Levante on Oct. 18 and they play at Liverpool in Champions League Group B four days later.

Mourinho urges Chelsea to keep their feet on the ground after Arsenal win
6/10/2014

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho advised his players not to get carried away after they established a five-point lead at the top of the Premier League by beating Arsenal 2-0.

Eden Hazard, from the penalty spot, and Diego Costa, with a late lob, gave Chelsea victory on a sunny afternoon at Stamford Bridge on Sunday, leaving Mourinho's side with 19 points from a possible 21.

Chelsea have only dropped points in a 1-1 draw at defending champions Manchester City, but despite the imperious quality of some of their football, Mourinho warned that there was still a long way to go.

"The start of the season is good, but it's just seven matches and the beginning of October," said the Portuguese.

"If you me tell in February we are in this situation, I say great, but it's not February or March. It's the beginning of October, so (there is) a long way to go.

"But the reality is that we have a good team. We can adapt to the different moments of the game.

"We are good when we have the ball, we are good on the counter-attack, we feel comfortable when we have to come back and defend."

An incident-packed first half saw Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois forced off after injuring his head in a collision with Alexis Sanchez, before Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger shoved Mourinho during a touchline confrontation.

Courtois was taken to hospital for precautionary tests, while both managers played down their spat in front of the dug-outs.

The on-pitch action was rather more sedate until Hazard sprang to life in the 27th minute, drawing a foul from Laurent Koscielny with a thrilling dart into the box and putting Chelsea ahead from the resulting penalty.

"In these matches you need one of your top players to take some magic cards out of his pocket and he did it when the game was 0-0, when the game was tight," Mourinho said.

Mourinho also reserved praise for Cesc Fabregas, the former Arsenal captain, who created Costa's 78th-minute goal with a flighted pass from the halfway line.

Fabregas 'understands' Arsenal jeers

"Fantastic (performance). But to be fair, he didn't have this performance because the opponent was Arsenal and he had a special motivation," Mourinho said.

"He's been doing this since day one. I don't remember a game this season where he was not fantastic.

"To play against his team, the team where he was born or made for football, I think shows even more his commitment with us and his professionalism."

Wenger, who has not beaten Mourinho in 12 matches, was aggrieved that Arsenal were not awarded a penalty for an apparent handball by Fabregas in the second half.

The Frenchman also felt that Gary Cahill and Oscar were fortunate to avoid red cards -- Cahill for the first-half foul on Sanchez that sparked Wenger's confrontation with Mourinho, and Oscar for "repeated fouls".

But he also admitted that the quality of Chelsea's forwards had decided the game.

Discussing Fabregas's performance, Wenger said: "He did well. But in midfield it was very even. At the end of the day, it's Hazard and Diego Costa who made the difference."

Asked if Chelsea had been more ruthless, he replied: "We couldn't score and they did. So you have to say yes."

Despite being goaded by some of the fans of his former team, Fabregas, who spent eight years at Arsenal before leaving for Barcelona in 2011, said his affection for the club remained intact.

"I have huge respect for Arsenal," the Spaniard told Sky Sports.

"I know that I would not have the things I have or won the things I have if it was not for them. I understand the fans' reaction.

"I know they love me, but because of some certain circumstances it is not to be. But now I am with a great club, with great fans and a great coach, and I am concentrating on that."

Kaka returns to Brazil national team
3/10/2014

Brazil coach Dunga on Friday drafted Kaka into his squad for upcoming friendlies with Argentina and Japan after Cruzeiro forward Ricardo Goulart pulled out through injury.

Kaka, the 2007 world player of the year, returns 18 months after his last cap, having missed out on the World Cup under Dunga's predecessor Luiz Felipe Scolari.

The playmaker has not featured for the Selecao since March 2013, when Scolari included him in his squad for friendlies against Russia and Italy.

Former AC Milan and Real Madrid star Kaka, 32, is currently on loan with Sao Paulo and will next year play for Major League Soccer side Orlando.

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) also revealed Dunga has called up Inter Milan defender Juan after Paris Saint-Germain centre-back Marquinhos suffered a thigh strain in his club's Champions League win over Barcelona on Tuesday.

Brazil fly out to Asia on Saturday for a two-match tour which sees the five-time world champions take on World Cup finalists Argentina in Beijing on October 11 and Japan in Singapore three days later.

Revised Brazil squad:

Goalkeepers: Jefferson (Botafogo), Rafael (Napoli/ITA), Marcelo Grohe (Gremio)

Defenders: David Luiz (Paris SG/FRA), Juan (Inter Milan/ITA), Gil (Corinthians), Miranda (Atletico Madrid/ESP), Filipe Luis (Chelsea/ENG), Danilo (FC Porto/POR), Mario Fernandes (CSKA Moscow/RUS), Dodo (Inter Milan/ITA)

Midfielders: Luiz Gustavo (Wolfsburg/GER), Elias (Corinthians), Fernandinho (Manchester City/ENG), Souza (Sao Paulo), Everton Ribeiro (Cruzeiro), Willian (Chelsea/ENG), Philippe Coutinho (Liverpool/ENG), Oscar (Chelsea/ENG), Kaka (Sao Paulo)

Forwards: Neymar (Barcelona/ESP), Diego Tardelli (Atletico Mineiro), Robinho (Santos)

PSG hand Barcelona first defeat of the season
30/9/2014

Paris Saint-Germain overcame the absence of their injured talisman Zlatan Ibrahimovic to beat Barcelona 3-2 in a thrilling Champions League Group F encounter at the Parc des Princes on Tuesday
The Catalans, who had not even conceded a goal all season in seven matches before this one, fell behind inside 10 minutes when David Luiz prodded in his first PSG goal.

Barcelona needed just two minutes to draw level thanks to a marvellous Lionel Messi strike, but Marco Verratti headed the hosts back in front after 26 minutes and Blaise Matuidi added another in the 54th minute.

Neymar reduced the deficit, yet Paris held on for their first win in the group after a 1-1 draw at Ajax two weeks ago, while Barca failed to build on a narrow 1-0 win over APOEL of Cyprus in their first outing.

Barcelona arrived in France in fine form but this was billed as their biggest test since the arrival of Luis Enrique as coach in the summer, even if their hosts were denied the services of Ezequiel Lavezzi and captain Thiago Silva as well as the prolific Ibrahimovic.

Edinson Cavani spearheaded their attack, while Barcelona again had Marc-Andre ter Stegen in goal in Europe rather than La Liga regular Claudio Bravo.

But their previously watertight defence looked rather fragile against a PSG side who started with all guns blazing and were soon rewarded.

Daniel Alves gave away a free-kick for stopping a Paris attack with his hand, and the home side opened the scoring from the resulting delivery, Luiz controlling Lucas's ball in from the left before turning and poking the ball into the far corner from eight yards.

Barcelona's defence had finally been breached for the first time this season after 640 minutes, but their response was immediate.

Trademark brilliance

Indeed, the celebrations were still ongoing when the Catalans drew level thanks to a moment of trademark brilliance, Messi exchanging lightning-quick first-time passes with Andres Iniesta and Neymar before giving Salvatore Sirigu in goal no chance with a left-foot strike into the far corner.

It was the Argentine's 68th Champions League goal, putting him level with his great rival Cristiano Ronaldo in the all-time standings and to within three of the competition's all-time leading scorer, Raul.

However, PSG were not deterred, and while Neymar lifted the ball just over the bar following a lofted pass into the box by Messi, the home side regained the advantage in the 26th minute.

Again the goal came from a set-piece, and this time Barcelona's defence looked especially unsure of themselves, ter Stegen flapping at a Thiago Motta right-wing corner and Ivan Rakitic allowing Verratti, the smallest player in the PSG side, to head into the net at the far post to score his first goal for the club.

Barcelona trailed despite having almost 60 percent of the possession in the first half, with Messi curling a free-kick just over the bar a minute prior to the break.

PSG were simply the more clinical of the two teams and extended their advantage nine minutes after the restart, a Gregory van der Wiel cross from near the right corner flag flashing all the way across the penalty box for Matuidi - who scored in the last meeting of the clubs here 18 months ago - to convert.

Again Barcelona needed just two minutes to muster a response, Neymar getting his seventh of the season with a delightful control and calm side-footed finish into the net off the right-hand post.

They then camped around the penalty box as they went in search of a leveller, but Marquinhos produced a crucial flying block to prevent Jordi Alba from equalising before substitute Munir El Haddadi fizzed in a shot that grazed the outside of the right post and went wide.

FIFA official doubts the 2022 World Cup will be held in Qatar
23/9/2014

FIFA’s decision to award the 2022 World Cup to Qatar has been heavily criticized since the final vote in 2010, with allegations of corruption within FIFA and Qatar’s record of human rights violations leading many to call for the decision to be reversed. The challenges of holding the world’s biggest tournament in western Asia during the summer months — when temperatures in Doha reach an average high of 106 degrees — seem unsolvable. Qatari officials have promised to spend $4 billion on air conditioned stadiums to protect players and fans, but not everyone is convinced.

FIFA Executive Committee member Theo Zwanziger told German newspaper Bild that he does not think the tournament will take place in Qatar.

“I personally think that in the end the 2022 World Cup will not take place in Qatar. Medics say that they cannot accept responsibility with a World Cup taking place under these conditions…. Fans from around the world will be coming and traveling in this heat and the first life-threatening case will trigger an investigation by a state prosecutor.”

FIFA president Sepp Blatter admitted in May that awarding Qatar the World Cup was “a mistake,” and has also said that it is not “rational and reasonable” to play the 2022 World Cup in the summer. Moving the tournament to the winter would wreak havoc on club football league schedules across the world.

If Qatar is stripped of the World Cup, it could potentially be hosted in the United States. The U.S. finished second in the voting process in 2010, ahead of South Korea, Japan and Australia.

Still, Nasser Al Khater, Qatar’s executive director of communications, insisted Monday that the World Cup will definitely be held in Qatar.

“The only question now is when, not if. Summer or winter, we will be ready. We have proven that a FIFA World Cup in Qatar in the summer is possible with state-of-the-art cooling technology.”


Tevez leads Juventus to 1-0 win at AC Milan
20/9/2014

Carlos Tevez's fourth goal in three matches helped Juventus win 1-0 at AC Milan on Saturday in the first high-profile matchup of the Serie A.

In the 71st minute at the San Siro, Paul Pogba set up Tevez with only the goalkeeper to beat, and he expertly chipped it in over Christian Abbiati.

The victory gave Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri a measure of revenge against the club that fired him in January.

Tevez also scored in a 2-0 win over Udinese last weekend then produced both goals in a 2-0 victory over Malmo in the Champions League on Tuesday.

With three wins from three matches, Juventus moved three points clear of Milan and Roma, which hosts Cagliari on Sunday.

Earlier, Cesena and Empoli drew 2-2.

'Weird' to see Lampard in light blue - Chelsea's Cahill
22/9/2014

Seeing Frank Lampard level the scores for Manchester City against former club Chelsea was a "weird" experience, according to the London side's centre-back Gary Cahill.

The Blues were well on the way to winning the heavyweight clash against title rivals City on Sunday, with substitute Andre Schurrle putting them 1-0 in front shortly after Pablo Zabaleta's sending off handed them the initiative.

But it was the familiar figure of Chelsea's record goalscorer Lampard - in the unfamiliar light blue of City - who ensured the spoils were shared with a trademark run into the box and a calm volleyed finish.

The former England midfielder, on a short-term loan from his new employers New York City following 13 years at Stamford Bridge, had mixed emotions about his first strike for the club and he was not the only one to feel unusual about his decisive cameo.

Cahill told Chelseafc.com: "It was weird of course because you think of Frank in a Chelsea shirt.

"It's been that way for many, many years. We've seen him score that kind of goal so many times over the years."

Schurrle added: "It's strange to see him in another shirt.

"We wanted to win this match but he scored for Man City. Of course it's nice for him to get his first goal but we wanted the win and we were very close to that."

The German forward, who tapped in for his second goal of the season, conceded Chelsea were well-placed to take maximum points from the game.

"It was important not to lose here, that's what our goal was," he said.

"But when you're so close to winning and you're a man in front obviously it's disappointing not to win, but we have to keep going now and win the next match."

Ronaldo leads eight-goal rout of Deportivo, Atletico held

Cristiano Ronaldo scored a hat-trick as Real Madrid equalled their biggest ever away win in La Liga with a 8-2 thrashing of Deportivo la Coruna on Saturday.

Ronaldo opened the scoring with a fantastic header from Alvaro Arbeloa's cross, but the Portuguese was upstaged by James Rodriguez and the Colombian doubled the visitors' advantage with a sumptuous left-footed effort that curled into the top corner.

A goalkeeping howler from German Lux then allowed Ronaldo to fire into an empty net to make it 3-0 before the break, but Depor did manage to pull one back when Haris Medunjanin converted from the penalty spot after Sergio Ramos was adjudged to have handled.

However, Gareth Bale struck twice in the final 25 minutes before Ronaldo rounded off his hat-trick to ensure Real bounced back in style after suffering consecutive defeats to Real Sociedad and Atletico Madrid in their last two league outings.

Toche headed home a late consolation for the hosts, but Javier Hernandez rounded off a fine day for Real when he volleyed home his first two goals for the club since joining on loan from Manchester United.

"The game was defined by the skill and quality we have up front and how clinical we were with the chances we had," said Real boss Carlo Ancelotti.

"We showed the quality we have. We have a phenomenon in Ronaldo and we have other players with great quality. They combined very well together and that was the best thing we can take from the game."

The European champions had dismissed some of the early season pessimism at the Santiago Bernabeu with a 5-1 hammering of Basel in the Champions League in midweek, but badly needed a win to keep in touch with leaders Barcelona who have made a 100 percent start to life under new boss Luis Enrique.

And Ancelotti is still looking for an improvement in other areas of the pitch.

"We have to improve. Today we showed the quality everyone knows we have which is the capability to score in many different ways.

"We need to continue improving the balance and our consistency. After two defeats we have scored 13 goals and that is a good sign that we have responded well."

Depor's resistence was broken just before the half hour mark, though, as Ronaldo leaped to meet Arbeloa's cross and directed a fine header into the far corner from 15 yards out.

Karim Benzema then forced Lux into another smart save moments later, but there was nothing the Argentine 'keeper could do nine minutes before half-time when Rodriguez scored his first goal in La Liga with a curling effort that dipped in off the underside of the bar.

Lux was badly at fault for Real's third goal, though, as he raced off his line to close down Benzema and despite bringing down the Frenchman, referee Pedro Jesus Perez Montero allowed play to continue so Ronaldo could double his tally for the afternoon by rolling the ball into an empty net.

Deportivo were given a glimmer of hope at the start of the second-half as Ramos was harshly penalised for handball and Medunjanin sent Iker Casillas the wrong way from the penalty spot.

However, Real put the game to bed 24 minutes from time when Marcelo played in Bale on the left side of the area and this time he finished via the far post to register his third goal of the season.

Bale produced another moment of quality to make it 5-1 as he flicked Isco's through ball over Lux with ease before Ronaldo collected Rodriguez's pass and powered the ball home with his left foot to complete his hat-trick 12 minutes from time.

Deportivo snatched a consolation six minutes from time as Toche headed home, but Real fittingly had the final word as Hernandez made his case for a start at home to Elche in midweek.

The Mexican international thumped a volley into the top corner two minutes from time before seeing his next effort loop of a stray Depor defender's leg and over the hapless Lux.


Egypt's Salah makes first competitive appearance with Chelsea this season
13/9/2014

Salah made his first competitive appearance with Chelsea this season after coming off the bench eight minutes from time in the team's 4-2 defeat of Swansea City in Saturday's English Premier League tie.

The Egyptian forward had little time to make an impact but his introduction may move some way to dispelling doubts over his future at Stamford Bridge.

He had a late chance though when he cut inside his marker in stoppage time but his left-foot shot went wide from inside the area.

Reports suggested he would be offloaded in the summer transfer window after he was left out of Chelsea's squad for their opening two Premier League victories over Burnley and Leicester City.

However, coach Jose Mourinho eventually kept faith with him and he was on the bench when Chelsea crushed Everton 6-3 in a thrilling Premier League clash last month.

The lack of regular football with the Blues started to take its toll on him after he produced a couple of below-par performances in Egypt's defeats by Senegal and Tunisia in their opening two African Nations Cup qualifiers.


Diego Costa's hat-trick fires Chelsea to 4-2 win
13/9/2014

Diego Costa scored a hat trick as Chelsea opened an early gap atop the Premier League standings with a 4-2 win over Swansea, ending the visitors' perfect start to the season.

Costa made sure Chelsea recovered from John Terry's early own goal as the Brazil-born Spain forward continued his stellar scoring form by making it seven goals in four league games since joining from Atletico Madrid in the offseason.

He headed in an equalizer just before halftime and then added two more after the break before being substituted for another new signing in Loic Remy. The French forward added the fourth on his debut before Jonjo Shelvey pulled a late goal back for Swansea.

Chelsea has a maximum 12 points from four games to sit three points above second-place Swansea. More importantly, it's already five points ahead of Manchester City and six above Arsenal after two of its main title rivals drew 2-2 on Saturday.

Chelsea plays City next weekend after midweek Champions League games for both sides.

Mexico and Chile battled to a 0-0 draw
6/9/2014

The match took place at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California, the new home of the San Francisco 49ers. 
A sold-out crowd filled in the Stadium Saturday night for a soccer match between Mexico and Chile. 

It was the first match for both teams since the 2014 World Cup. Neither team was able to get on the scoreboard, but Fortunately, those watching at the stadium and on television were certainly treated to an exciting battle.

Chile did a better job of controlling possession and made great passes, although there was little action in the final third. 

In the end, the two sides were forced to settle for a scoreless draw in a competitive international friendly.

Mexico coach Miguel Herrera had a lot of faith in his squad, although he was aware the score is not the most important thing in a friendly. 

Balotelli makes winning debut
31/8/2014

Liverpool reasserted their Premier League title credentials with a breezy 3-0 win at Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday, but Arsenal were held to a 1-1 draw at Leicester City.

Raheem Sterling, Steven Gerrard and Alberto Moreno scored the goals for Liverpool at White Hart Lane to give Brendan Rodgers victory in his 100th game as manager and end Tottenham's 100 percent record.

"Overall our quality was exceptional. We got three goals and could have had more," said Rodgers.

Mario Balotelli made his Liverpool debut after his £16 million ($26.5 million, 20.1 million euros) move from AC Milan on Monday and he produced an enterprising display before being withdrawn in the 61st minute.

"I thought he was excellent," Rodgers said of the maverick striker.

"He's bought straight into our team ethic. He's trained well and has put all that background noise about him to one side. He's been brilliant."

The result saw Liverpool bounce back from a 3-1 defeat at Manchester City in their previous outing and means they have now scored 12 unanswered goals in their last three encounters with Spurs.

FIFA rejects Barcelona appeal against transfer ban
20/8/2014

FIFA has rejected Barcelona's appeal against one-year transfer ban as punishment for repeatedly breaching transfer regulations in signing youth players.

The ban on signing any players will apply for all of 2015, covering the January and summer transfer windows. Because Barcelona appealed, the punishment was frozen during the current transfer window, which closes on Sept. 1 and allowed them to sign striker Luis Suarez.

FIFA found the signing of 10 unnamed players to be in breach of its rules covering the protection of minors. A fine of 450,000 Swiss francs ($494,000) was also imposed on Barcelona.

The Spanish Football Federation was also found to have violated FIFA rules covering the registration of minors. Its appeal against a fine of 500,000 Swiss francs ($565,500) was also rejected.


Argentinean coach Pekerman extends contract with Colombia
19/8/2014

Jose Pekerman has signed a new four-year deal as coach of Colombia, the South American country's football federation announced Tuesday.

"We've been saying it since the start, for several months, that Pekerman was our plan A, B and C," federation president Luis Bedoya told local radio.

Pekerman's initial contract expired on July 31, the 64-year-old Argentinian having taken over in January 2012.

Under his guidance, Colombia not only qualified for the World Cup finals for the first time in 16 years, but also went on to record four victories and reach the quarter-finals where they were knocked out by hosts Brazil.


Fabregas impresses and Costa scores in Chelsea's victory over Burnley
18/8/2014

New signings Diego Costa and Cesc Fabregas made an instant impact for Chelsea as they launched their Premier League title bid with a confident 3-1 win at promoted Burnley on Monday.

Former Arsenal midfielder Fabregas, brought in from Barcelona during the close season, was influential throughout the game, having a hand in all three Chelsea goals and striking up an impressive midfield pairing with Eden Hazard.

Chelsea recovered from conceding a 14th minute goal, quickly turning on the style in an impressive half hour spell to go in 3-1 up at the break.

Jose Mourinho’s side were content to see out the game in the second half as Burnley, tipped by many for relegation, put in a creditable professional display after the Londoners had threatened to run away with the game.


Sturridge gives Liverpool opening win over Southampto
17/8/2014

Daniel Sturridge snaffled a 79th-minute winner as last season's Premier League runners-up Liverpool opened the new campaign with a 2-1 victory at home to Southampton on Sunday.

Raheem Sterling put Liverpool ahead midway through the first half at a sun-soaked Anfield, but Nathaniel Clyne lashed home an equaliser shortly before the hour following a neat exchange with debutant Dusan Tadic.

Brendan Rodgers's Liverpool looked destined to drop points in their first competitive game since the sale of Luis Suarez to Barcelona, but with 11 minutes to play, Sterling teed up Sturridge to flick home the winning goal.

With debutants Javier Manquillo and Dejan Lovren -- the former Southampton defender -- in their starting XI, Liverpool dominated possession in the early stages and took the lead in the 23rd minute.

The goal owed much to the tenacity of Jordan Henderson, who helped Manquillo dispossess Tadic, won a 50-50 with Morgan Schneiderlin, and then freed Sterling to beat Fraser Forster with a first-time finish.

It was a turbulent close season for Southampton, who lost five key players and appointed a new manager in Ronald Koeman, but they were not cowed by Liverpool's opener and equalised in the 56th minute.

Clyne rolled a pass forward to Tadic and the Serbian held off his marker before backheeling the ball into the path of his onrushing team-mate, who thrashed a shot into the top-right corner.

Steven Davis could have completed the comeback, only to shoot meekly at Liverpool goalkeeper Simon Mignolet from James Ward-Prowse's pass, and it was a spurned opportunity that Koeman would come to rue.

Rodgers sent on Rickie Lambert, another who left Southampton in the close season, in the 76th minute, but it was Sturridge who claimed the winner.

After Henderson's cross was partially cleared by Victor Wanyama, Sterling headed the ball on and his England team-mate nudged home from a matter of yards.

There was time for one last scare for Liverpool, with Mignolet touching a drive from Schneiderlin onto the bar and Southampton debutant Shane Long -- a late substitute -- heading the rebound wide.

City open their title defence later on Sunday when they take on Newcastle United at St James' Park.

Manchester United's campaign got off to a false start on Saturday when they lost 2-1 at home to Swansea City in new manager Louis van Gaal's first competitive game.

Arsenal, meanwhile, needed a stoppage-time goal from Aaron Ramsey to overcome Crystal Palace 2-1.

Arsenal's Ramsey pounces late to sink Palace 
16/8/2014

Managerless Crystal Palace's week took another turn for the worse when they conceded a stoppage-time goal in a 2-1 defeat at Arsenal on Saturday on Premier League season's opening day.

Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey pounced as the clock moved past 90 minutes to complete a comeback win for the Gunners who had trailed after 35 minutes to a Brede Hangeland header.

Arsenal equalised on the stroke of halftime when Laurent Koscielny headed in a free kick from new signing Alexis Sanchez.

Palace, who were rocked by manager Tony Pulis's shock exit on Thursday, seemed to have earned a point with a stubborn defensive display but Welshman Ramsey tucked in a rebound after Mathieu Debuchy's shot was half-saved by Julian Speroni.

Palace had been reduced to 10 men shortly before Arsenal's late winner when Jason Puncheon received a second yellow card.

Five things to know about the English Premier League

14/8/2014


The English Premier League is back - and it looks more competitive than ever this season


Manchester City heads into the first match of its title defense, against Newcastle on Sunday, knowing there are four genuine pretenders to the trophy after a typically frenetic summer of transfers and coaching changes in English soccer.

After slumping to a seventh-place finish last season, Manchester United looks sure to be a factor again following the hiring of Louis van Gaal as coach. And both Chelsea and Arsenal should have the potency to last the course in the championship after signing top-class attackers.

Liverpool, the runner-up to City in a thrilling title race that went to the final weekend, should also be challenging again after reacting to the sale of star striker Luis Suarez with a spending spree of about $165 million.

With Tottenham and Everton having the potential to threaten the top-four favorites, anticipation is high in Europe's most lucrative and watched league.

Here are five things to know about the first round of Premier League matches:

Has City repeated 2012 mistakes?

The debate is on as to whether Man City has sprinkled its squad with enough star quality in the offseason to hold off the charge of its rivals behind them.

Bolstering its defense with Eliaquim Mangala and Bacary Sagna and bulking up the midfield with Fernando and the aging Frank Lampard looks sensible but hasn't set the pulses racing.

To some, there are shades of the summer of 2012 when City manager Roberto Mancini failed to make any jaw-dropping signings after a title success, allowing Man United to seize back the initiative and eventually oust City as champions. Mancini was fired as a result.

There is the argument, however, that City's squad - especially in attack - was strong enough as it is and simply needed fine-tuning as Manuel Pellegrini has done.

Playing away first up against Newcastle, whose offseason signings have been shrewd, will be a good test of City's credentials.

Another new era at United

For the second straight season, a new era at Man United begins with a Premier League opener against Swansea.

Twelve months ago, a 4-1 win over the Welsh club proved to be a false barometer for United and its then-new coach David Moyes, whose tenure went downhill from there and he was sacked before the season was out.

Expect things to be different under the more experienced Van Gaal. For starters, Wayne Rooney has been appointed captain and will be part of a new 3-5-2 formation that Van Gaal favors and has worked well in preseason for United, which has won all of its six friendlies.

The defense is a worry ahead of this weekend, though, with the new signing at left back, Luke Shaw, ruled out for a month, center back Jonny Evans also set to miss out and Nemanja Vidic, Rio Ferdinand and Patrice Evra all departed.

Striker Robin van Persie is also lacking match fitness and might not start.

Chelsea looks complete with Costa

With Diego Costa signed up, it's difficult to find a weakness in Chelsea's title challenge.

Jose Mourinho craved a lethal striker last season, one which Chelsea finished without a trophy mainly because of the lack of goals from Samuel Eto'o, Fernando Torres and Demba Ba up front.

Mourinho acted quickly this summer to snap up Costa for 32 million pounds ($53 million) after his brilliant season at Spanish champion Atletico Madrid, and it could prove to be a bargain.

''This is the player we were waiting for since last season,'' Mourinho said after Costa's two goals in a 2-0 friendly win over Real Sociedad on Tuesday.

With Costa up front and fellow new signing Cesc Fabregas in midfield, Chelsea shouldn't be short of goals this season - starting at promoted Burnley on Monday.

Optimism at Arsenal

The high-profile arrival of Alexis Sanchez, the feel-good factor carrying over from last season's FA Cup success and a 3-0 win over Man City in the Community Shield last weekend has Arsenal feeling optimistic going into its opener against Crystal Palace on Saturday.

The London club was top of the standings for longer than any of its rivals last season but fell away after a strong start, with injuries to key players like Theo Walcott, Aaron Ramsey and Mesut Ozil taking their toll.

The squad looks even stronger for this campaign - especially following Sanchez's signing from Barcelona after an impressive World Cup with Chile.

''He's got pace, he's got that special technique, his feet are so, so quick. He's a bit cheeky on the pitch,'' Arsenal captain Mikel Arteta said of Sanchez. ''I think the fans are very excited and I think they are right because we've signed some player here.''

Arsenal, which sent out a statement by over-running City at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, hasn't finished higher than third since the 2004-05 season.

Liverpool and the others

The post-Luis Suarez era at Liverpool begins at home to Southampton, whose summer fire sale of top players has seen three head to Anfield - Rickie Lambert, Adam Lallana and Dejan Lovren.

Lovren is likely to be the only one to start on Sunday, with Liverpool appearing in great shape after thrashing German power Borussia Dortmund 4-0 in a friendly last weekend.

Tottenham's first match under Mauricio Pochettino is at West Ham and Everton visits Leicester, one of three promoted side along with Burnley and Queens Park Rangers.

The other games are: Stoke vs. Aston Villa; West Bromwich Albion vs. Sunderland; and QPR vs. Hull.

Ahly's Fathi flies to England for Arsenal trial

11/7/2014


Ahly right winger Ahmed Fathi will fly to England on Friday to train with English Premier League side Arsenal after the club expressed interest in signing the Egypt star this summer, Ahly football supervisor Alaa Abdel-Sadeq announced.

"Fathi will go for trial with Arsenal for one week in a step to join the Premier League side if he passes medical and technical tests there," Abdel-Sadeq told Al-Ahram Arabic website on Friday.

"He has promised the Ahly management that he will return to the team if he fails to reach an agreement with Arsenal," he added.

The 29-year-old winger's contract with Ahly expired this summer and he is now able to join any team in a free transfer.

Fathi is one of the Red Devils’ most consistent performers, thanks to his steady defensive displays. The former Ismaily player joined Ahly in 2007 after leaving England's Sheffield, where he had little success.

He has experience with the English Premier League, having played for Hull City on loan in 2013.

Luis Suarez to Barcelona but Alexis Sanchez could be Arsenal bound

3/7/2014

Luis Suarez is on the brink of a transfer from Liverpool to Barcelona regardless of whether Alexis Sanchez moves in the opposite direction.

Sanchez is a target for Arsenal and a number of other European clubs. Although Liverpool would like to sign the Chilean forward as part of the deal, they are still prepared to sell Suarez provided Barcelona meet their £80m asking price.

Ian Ayre, the club’s chief executive, met with Barcelona officials in London and the talks were described as "productive". A source said there had been "sensible expectations on both sides".

Barcelona value Sanchez at £35m. It has been reported that Arsenal have bid £22m but are prepared to go much higher.

Barcelona made little secret of their intentions on Tuesday when their sporting director Andoni Zubizarreta described Suarez as “humble” for having apologised to Giorgio Chiellini on Monday for biting the Italian.

Pharaohs' Gharib hails Egypt players despite Chile defeat
30/5/2014







Egypt coach Shawky Gharib says new faces proved their worth in Chile match Saturday, promises to solve team's defensive problems in Wednesday's friendly against Jamaica

Egypt coach Shawky Gharib has hailed his players despite Saturday's loss to Chile, vowing to amend his team's mistakes in the near future.

The Pharaohs failed to give Gharib a second win in as many matches after throwing away a two-goal lead to lose 3-2 in World Cup-bound Chile at an exciting friendly in Santiago.

"I am satisfied with the players' performance, especially those newcomers like Qhaled kamar, Hazem Emam and Amr Gamal," Gharib was quoted as saying by Ahram Sport after the match.

"My team was a tough opponent for the Chile players who will be participating in the World Cup within a few days," he added.

Egypt also meet Jamaica 4 June in London, as they prepare for the 2015 African Cup of Nations qualifiers where they were drawn into another crunch group alongside powerhouses Tunisia and Senegal.

"We will try to make the best use of the Jamaica friendly to stop our defensive errors ahead of the African qualifiers. Also we will give a chance for some new faces, as Ahly and Zamalek players will not be available due to their club's continental commitments," Gharib said.

The loss to Chile was Egypt’s first defeat under Gharib, who took over after American tactician Bob Bradley departed following his failure to guide the World Cup-hungry side to next month’s Brazil finals. 

In Gharib’s first game in charge, the seven-time African champions defeated Bosnia — who will also play in the World Cup — 2-0 in Austria in March.

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Egypt squander two-goal lead to lose 3-2 at Chile in friendly
30/5/2014





Egypt failed to give coach Shawky Gharib a second win in as many matches after throwing away a two-goal lead to lose 3-2 at World Cup-bound Chile on Saturday.

The Pharaohs sprang the offside trap twice in the first 16 minutes to catch Chile by surprise, thanks to strikes from Mohamed Salah and Khaled Qamar, who netted his first international goal.

Chile, who will play in World Cup Group G along with defending champions Spain, 2010 runners-up Holland and Australia, roared back in style. They displayed an attractive brand of football that included catchy feints and defence-splitting passes to recover from the early lapse and record a convincing win.

Marcelo Diaz pulled one back in the first half and two identical combinations between Alexis Sanchez and striker Eduardo Vargas saw the latter notch a brace after the break.

It was Egypt’s first defeat under Gharib, who took over after American tactician Bob Bradley departed following his failure to guide the World Cup-hungry side to next month’s Brazil finals.  

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Real Madrid fight back to beat Atletico and win 10th European crown
24/5/2014







Real Madrid secured a 10th European Cup when they snatched a stoppage-time equaliser before extra-time goals by Gareth Bale, Marcelo and a Cristiano Ronaldo penalty gave them a 4-1 win over Atletico Madrid in the Champions League final on Saturday.

Atletico, who won the Spanish league title a week ago, looked set to complete a double after Diego Godin's 36th-minute header, helped by a blunder from Real keeper Iker Casillas, put them in control of the first European final between teams from the same city.

Real attacked relentlessly in the second half at Lisbon's Stadium of Light but had to wait until the third minute of stoppage time for an equaliser when Sergio Ramos headed in powerfully from a corner.

Atletico looked a spent force in extra time and Real completed the comeback win when Bale headed them into the lead in the 110th minute before Marcelo slammed in a late third.

Ronaldo, the Portugal captain playing in his own capital city, scored the fourth from the penalty spot to clinch an astonishing turnaround and a double of Champions League and King's Cup after Real could only finish third in La Liga.

Atletico took the lead when their city rivals failed to clear a corner and they hooked the ball back into the box.

Casillas, who came rushing out of his goal, was left stranded in no man's land as Godin beat him to the ball and headed towards goal. The keeper rushed back and attempted to scoop the ball out but it had already crossed the line.

It was a notable double for Godin who headed the goal in last week's 1-1 draw at Barcelona that secured Atletico's first league title since 1996.

Missed chance

The opener came five minutes after Real's world record signing Gareth Bale had spurned a great opportunity to put his side ahead when he picked up the ball in midfield after Tiago gave possession away cheaply.

Welshman Bale surged forward, powering his way deep into the Atletico penalty area, but waited too long to shoot and when he did he fired wide of Thibaut Courtois' goal.

That started a surge of Real pressure that finally paid off when Ramos headed the equaliser to force extra time.

The first period of that ended without another goal, but Real finally took control of the game in the last 15 minutes when Bale headed them in front in the 110th minute before Marcelo fired home the third and Ronaldo scored from the spot.

Ronaldo's goal was his 17th of the campaign, an all-time record for the competition, and meant Carlo Ancelotti became only the second man after Bob Paisley of Liverpool to win three European Cups as a coach after the Italian's earlier successes with AC Milan in 2003 and 2007.

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Atletico Madrid crowned Spanish champions for first time since 1996
17/5/2014




Atletico Madrid rallied for a dramatic 1-1 draw at Barcelona on Saturday to secure its first Spanish league title in 18 years.

Atletico lost Diego Costa and Arda Turan to injury inside 22 minutes and Barcelona seized control at the Camp Nou in the 34th minute when Alexis Sanchez drove an unstoppable shot into the near corner.

Despite the setback, Atletico emerged from the break determined with Diego Godin heading home a corner in the 49th just after David Villa had hit the post.

Atletico needed to avoid defeat to secure the title and it weathered Barcelona's pressure in a frantic finish to cap an improbable domestic success.

Atletico's 10th title meant a club besides Barcelona or Real Madrid was Spanish champion for the first time since Valencia in 2004.


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I'm lucky to coach most important club in the world: Real Madrid's Ancelotti
29/14/2014




In mild-mannered Italian Carlo Ancelotti, Real Madrid president Florentino Perez may finally have found the man capable of sculpting his expensively assembled squad into a unit capable of delivering an elusive 10th European crown.

Ancelotti's side produced a devastating performance at Bayern Munich on Tuesday to humble the holders 4-0 and advance 5-0 on aggregate to their first Champions League final since they won a record-extending ninth continental title in 2002.

During two stints at the helm of the world's richest club by income since 2000, construction magnate Perez has been through eight coaches and the club have splurged more than 600 million euros ($829 million) on the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale over the past five years.

However, not even Ancelotti's immediate predecessor Jose Mourinho, who was sent packing after three divisive years in charge, could deliver what Perez so desperately wants - the 10th crown, known in Spain as the "decima".

Tuesday's stunning result at the Allianz Arena, Bayern's heaviest home defeat in European competition, set up a trip to play Atletico Madrid or Mourinho's Chelsea in the showpiece in Lisbon on May 24.

The victory was all the sweeter as Bayern, who knocked Real out at the same stage two years ago, are now coached by Pep Guardiola, who had four trophy-laden years in charge at Real's bitter rivals Barcelona between 2008 and 2012.

"Florentino Perez was very happy and congratulated everyone, when he is happy he does not need to speak," Ancelotti told a news conference after two goals apiece from Sergio Ramos and Ronaldo carried Real to victory.

"The club's desire to reach the final after playing in three semi-finals was huge," added the 54-year-old, who won the Champions League twice with AC Milan as a player and twice as a coach.

"And also having the chance of winning the decima was an extra motivation," he said.

"After a 12-year absence Madrid is back in a Champions League final and that's good for everyone.

"Being in the final is the first objective, which is not easy. I am lucky to coach the most important club in the world and I have to do everything I can to get the best results."

SHAKY START

Real began Ancelotti's debut season in charge shakily but he has found what appears to be a winning formula with a mean defence and one of the most lethal attacks in football.

Tuesday's match showcased the talents of the forward trio known collectively as "BBC" - Bale, Karim Benzema and Ronaldo - as Real totally overwhelmed the Bundesliga champions.

Ancelotti has settled on a three-man midfield of Xabi Alonso, Luka Modric and Angel Di Maria, while at the back Ramos and Pepe provide solidity in the centre with the reliable Dani Carvajal and Fabio Coentrao on either flank.

Perhaps more importantly, Ancelotti has brought harmony back to the dressing room after the Mourinho years, when he sidelined captain and goalkeeper Iker Casillas and fell out with key figures in the dressing room like Ronaldo and Ramos.

"We have achieved it through hard work and if you do it with quality players it's much easier to win," Ancelotti said.

"Football has given me so much and I have the desire and energy to work to take this club, its fans and its players to the top.

"When I arrived in Madrid I realised the importance of this competition and I could feel the dream of winning the decima in the air.

"That is why we reached the final. We hope to have the same attitude in the final."

The only negative for Real on one of the greatest nights in their glittering history was a yellow card for Alonso that ruled the Spain international out of the final.

His absence will be a big blow as he controls Real's play from his deep-lying central position and is a consummate passer and highly effective ball winner.

"The Xabi thing was bad luck, we are sorry for him, he's a little down," Ancelotti said.

"The important thing is that we're going to play in the final and we need to win for him too."


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Chelsea close on leaders Liverpool
27/4/2014










Chelsea moved to within two points of top spot in the Premier League after a 2-0 win away to leaders Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday.

Ba put Chelsea ahead in first-half stoppage-time when a slip by Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard allowed the Senegal striker to beat Reds goalkeeper Simon Mignolet in a one-on-one.

And with Liverpool in desperate search of an equaliser, Willian scored on the counter-attack in added on time to keep Chelsea, who face Atletico Madrid in the second leg of a Champions League semi-final at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday, still in the hunt for an English and European double.

Third-placed Manchester City will close to within three points of the summit, with a game in hand on both the top two, if they win away to Crystal Palace later Sunday.

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Ronaldo strikes twice as Real Madrid rout Osasuna 4-0
26/14/2014




Cristiano Ronaldo scored two long-range goals to help Real Madrid rout Osasuna 4-0 on Saturday and stay in the Spanish league title chase while resting several first-choice players for its European clash at Bayern Munich.

With Gareth Bale recovering from the flu and Karim Benzema on the bench, all of Madrid's attack went through Ronaldo on the left flank.

And the Ballon d'Or winner didn't disappoint by unleashing two similar blasts after cutting inside to put the ball on his right boot to take his league-leading tally to 30 goals through 35 rounds.

Madrid provisionally closed to within three points of leader Atletico Madrid.

Madrid visits Bayern on Tuesday in the second leg of their Champions League semifinal. Madrid won the first leg 1-0.

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Real Madrid fans jam streets celebrating Cup
16/4/2014





Thousands of fans took to the streets of Madrid on Thursday, setting off fireworks and waving flags, to celebrate Real Madrid's 2-1 win over arch rivals Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final.

"Winning the cup is fantastic, winning against Barcelona is even better," said Ezequiel Munoz, a 20-year-old student, in the Plaza de Cibeles Square in the heart of the Spanish capital where he gathered with a group of friends after the match.

"We are going to celebrate all night long," added Munoz, who wore a black and white Real jersey with the name of the club's defender Sergio Ramos on its back.

Gareth Bale scored a stunning individual goal five minutes from time to win Real Madrid's 19th Copa del Rey at the Mestalla in Valencia on Wednesday.

The Real Madrid squad will join the celebrations at the square once they arrive back at the Spanish capital, with a stage set up for them by a fountain in the middle of the square.

"I am very happy. I had no doubts that they were going to win because I saw that Madrid's defence was very tight and the counter attack was very well studied," said Juan Moreno, a 61-year-old plumber who waved a large Real Madrid flag.

A large screen set up in the square repeated highlights of the match to cheers from the crowd while images of a football and trophy were beamed on the walls of the city hall.

"Real Madrid is the best club in the world, they deserve this win, they are playing very well," said Adel Aboukar, 24, who wore jeans and a black blazer and joined the celebrations with a friend after watching the match in a nearby bar.

After not winning the cup competition between 1993 and 2011, Real Madrid have won it twice in the last four years.


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Elmohamady proud to become first Egyptian to reach FA Cup final
15/4/2014




The Egyptian winger expresses his delight after helping Hull City reach the FA Cup
An FA Cup final appearance is a dream come true for Hull City's Ahmed Elmohamady, the right winger said on Tuesday.

Elmohamady will become the first Egyptian to play in the FA Cup final after Hull defeated Sheffield United 5-3 in a thrilling semi-final on Sunday.  .

"I am the first player from Egypt to play in a semi-final at Wembley and now to have the chance to play in the FA Cup final, that's a dream," Elmohamady was quoted as saying by Hull Daily Mail.

"I am proud of that and I am proud to play with these players and for this club. Everyone back home was watching the game.

"My family and friends will be watching the final, but at Wembley in an FA Cup final everyone around the world will be watching.

"I am proud of that. It's a huge game and a magnificent occasion."

Elmohamady admitted to the difficulty of his side's mission against Arsenal in the final but he insists that Hull are capable of springing an upset.  

"Wigan showed against Arsenal what can happen, that's football and anything can happen," the former ENPPI man said.

"We will first concentrate on the league because that is important for us, but then when the final comes for the week it will have all our focus because we really want to win and want to play in Europe.

"That would be fantastic for us. We all know how big this game is for the club. To be at Wembley for the second time this season is great.

"In our first year after being promoted to be playing Arsenal at Wembley in the cup final is fantastic and to have a chance of taking this team into Europe.

"We have a great chance to make huge history and to make sure this is a huge season for us," he added.



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Injured Ronaldo likely to miss clasico Copa final
10/4/2014








Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo is likely to miss the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona because of a leg injury.

Madrid says medical scans on the Portugal international Thursday revealed a muscle injury in his left leg - in addition to a left knee injury he had been nursing. Madrid didn't say how long Ronaldo would be sidelined.

Madrid lost 2-0 at Borussia Dortmund on Tuesday without Ronaldo, who has scored 45 goals in all competitions for the Spanish team this season including a record-equaling 14 in the Champions League. However, his side advanced 3-2 on aggregate for the final on Wednesday.

Ronaldo is also expected to miss Saturday's game against Almeria. Madrid trails Spanish leader Atletico Madrid by three points with six rounds to play.   

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Atletico Madrid oust Barcelona to reach Champions League semis for 1st time in 40 years
9/4/2014


Atletico Madrid finally got the better of Spanish rival Barcelona on Wednesday as Koke's early goal guided his team to a 1-0 win and into the Champions League semifinals with a 2-1 aggregate victory.

Adrian Lopez filled in for injured striker Diego Costa and created the fifth-minute goal after hitting the post, as the Atletico forward headed an ensuing cross on to Koke to fire home.

The boisterous atmosphere at the Vicente Calderon Stadium unsettled Barcelona early on, and Atletico striker David Villa hit the woodwork twice within the opening 20 minutes.

Barcelona dug in but produced few tangible scoring chances apart from a pair of first-half misses by Lionel Messi.

Atletico, which leads Barcelona by one point in the league, reached the last four of Europe's top competition for the first time since 1974.

The teams had played four previous games this season which all ended in draws, but Atletico's breakthrough kept Barcelona from the semifinals for the first time in seven seasons.

"We just have to keep working hard and stay calm because we still haven't won anything," said Atletico coach Diego Simeone, whose team will face either crosstown rival Real Madrid, Chelsea, or Bayern Munich in a two-legged semifinal. Bayern beat Manchester United 3-1 on Wednesday to eliminate the English champions 4-2 overall.

Adrian replaced Costa after Atletico's star striker failed to recover from a hamstring injury and the little-used forward immediately made a mark by rocketing a shot off the near post just before the opening goal. Adrian eventually headed the ball back across the area for Koke to score from close range to the delight of the capacity crowd.

Atletico, feeding off the roar of its home supporters, had Barcelona consistently on the back foot early on and Villa found the post in the 11th-minute.

Barcelona controlled possession but Atletico was dangerous on the counter as Villa fired on the run over goalkeeper Jose Manuel Pinto but off the crossbar — the team's third touch of the woodwork.

Messi had Barcelona's lone scoring chances of the first half as he headed Dani Alves' cross past the near post in the 13th before firing wide past the opposite post near the break after Neymar's quick footwork created the chance inside the area.

Barcelona took control from the restart as Atletico hung back, with goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois doing well to poke the ball away at Messi's feet as he darted through the area and then recover in time to ensure the ball was deflected over goal in the ensuing scramble.

"There was a big difference between one team and another early on. We couldn't string together four or five passes like we needed to," Barcelona coach Gerardo Martino said. "If we had managed to equalize we might have been able to play the game we wanted."

Adrian was taken off to a rousing ovation in the 61st and replaced by Diego Ribas, who scored Atletico's goal in the 1-1 draw in the first leg. Minutes later, Pinto was diving to save from the Brazilian on a counterattack before Atletico's penalty appeals were waved off when Barcelona defender Javier Mascherano tripped up Villa inside the area.

Villa and Gabi Fernandez led another counter in the 70th, only for Pinto to kick out Gabi's weak shot.

Barcelona failed to muster up anything more and Pinto had to make a late save on Villa to keep it close, but the Catalans could not break through the hosts tight defense.

"I thought we deserved the draw," Barcelona midfielder Xavi Hernandez said, despite his team managing just five attempts on goal to Atletico's nine. "The game got away from us."

After walking off the pitch to loud cheers, the Atletico players re-emerged again to celebrate a memorable victory with the nearly 50,000 fans.

"The five games (between Atletico and Barcelona this season) all turned out nearly the same way, there weren't any major differences except there was a clear winner this time," Martino said.


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Dortmund defeat's a wake-up call for Real Madrid
8/4/2014




Captain Iker Casillas said Real Madrid were given a Champions League wake-up call as they lost 2-0 to last season's beaten finalists Borussia Dortmund in their quarter-final second leg match but still went through to the last four 3-2 on aggregate on Tuesday.

Germany winger Marco Reus scored both Borussia's goals to spark hopes of the hosts reaching the semi-finals.

However, Real held on but patently missed their star performer Cristiano Ronaldo, who was on the bench because he had not recovered fully from the knock to the knee he took in the first leg.

"Maybe it's good for us to receive a wake-up call like that from time to time," said Casillas.

"We committed errors at the back that cost us and we cannot commit in the semi-finals.

"It's better that it came tonight and not in the upcoming games we have.

"After half-time we had to be mentally strong.

"When the scoreboard says 2-0 after half an hour, you know it will be difficult, especially after missing a penalty, but sometimes you have to grind it out."

Real squandered the chance of an early lead after Angel Di Maria had his penalty saved by Dortmund captain Roman Weidenfeller.

"We're happy to be in the semi-final, that was our main goal, but the style of our win certainly left something to be desired," said Real coach Carlo Ancelotti.

"Things could have gone differently if we had converted our early penalty.

"That was the turning point, it made the opposition more bold and my players felt some fear.

"We then made some mistakes in defence and we practically gave away two goals.

"Perhaps we used our heads better in the second-half and defended better, so we managed it at the end."

Dortmund coach Jurgen Klopp delivered on his pre-match promise that his side would bow out in style.

"This game is one for the archives, a video must be made and all teams who lose the first leg 3-0 must be shown it to say, 'it can still happen'," said Klopp.

"I am proud of the image the boys have given of Borussia Dortmund."

Dortmund could easily have finished with the 4-0 result they needed to take them through as midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan hit the post in the second-half with the goal at his mercy, then fired a shot straight at Casillas.

"Neither of his chances were easy," said Klopp.

"It happens in football, we missed other chances, Kevin (Grosskreutz) had one and we missed five or six chances in Madrid.

"With a goal at Real and one extra tonight, we'd have been through, but it would be great to judge the match as a whole and not only on the two missed chances."

Real's Sergio Ramos said Ancelotti's half-time team talk had made the difference.

"That is what the manager is there for and perhaps if we had gone out with the same attitude in the second-half, we wouldn't be talking about playing in the semi-finals," he said.

"We need to be content because it is not easy to be in the semis four years in a row."

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I’m working with best coach in world, Salah says of Mourinho
22/3/2014










Egypt winger Mohamed Salah was elated after scoring his maiden goal with Chelsea, paying tribute to Jose Mourinho whom he described as the best coach in the world.

The 21-year-old put the icing on the cake in Chelsea’s 6-0 drubbing of London rivals Arsenal on Saturday after neatly rounding off a breakaway in the 71st minute.

"It's my first goal with the team (Chelsea), so I hope it will be a good start," Salah told Qatari-owned beIN SPORTS after the game.

"I congratulate myself and all the people who supported me following my arrival here. Thankfully, I’m living up to the expectations of the technical staff and I hope I will score more goals."

Salah has made few substitute appearances after joining Chelsea from Swiss side Basel last January on a four-and-a-half year deal for a reported fee of £11 million.

He replaced Brazilian playmaker Oscar seven minutes past the hour mark against Arsenal, making an instant impact.

He beat the offside trap to latch onto a long ball and place a low shot beyond the reach of Arsenal keeper Wojciech Szczesny.

‘Best coach in the world’

The Egyptian international was full of praise of Portuguese tactician Mourinho, who pumped the air with his fist following his goal.

"My relationship with Mourinho is very good. He motivated me before the game and told me that I would score today," Salah said.

"I am working with the best coach in the world."

Mourinho reiterated his belief that Salah would be a key Chelsea player next season.

"For Salah it's more difficult, he's younger and coming from a different environment and culture. He needs even more time but we believe he will be an important player for us next season," he said on Chelsea's official website.

"He played 25 minutes today, 25 minutes against Newcastle and 45 minutes against City, that's good for him."


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Egypt give Gharib winning start with 2-0 victory over Bosnia
5/3/2014





Two second-half goals from Gedo and Mohamed Salah gave coach Shawky Gharib a winning start after they beat Bosnia 2-0 in a friendly game in Austria on Wednesday.

Gedo opened the scoring seven minutes after restart with a clinical finish before Chelsea's Salah ensured the win with a close-range effort as Egypt start a new phase under Gharib, who replaced Bob Bradley following the team's failure to qualify for this year's World Cup finals in Brazil.

Portugal-based defender Ali Ghazal, who plays for Nacional, and Ittihad El-Shorta striker Khaled Qamar made their Egypt debuts in a largely unfamiliar starting line-up for the Pharaohs as Gharib seeks to rebuild an underachieving side.

Ahly's promising forward Amr Gamal also made his first appearance after replacing club teammate Gedo in the second half.

Versatile midfielder Ahmed Fathi, who usually plays on the right, surprisingly started as a left-back. He was Egypt's liveliest performer in the first half, making some darting runs down the flank and wasting a couple of goal-scoring opportunities.

His free, left-foot volley from a tight angle went over the crossbar after 17 minutes and his curling right-foot shot from the edge of the area four minutes later narrowly missed the target.

Apart from a piledriver from Senad Lulic that went just over the bar, Bosnia's attempts were shy.

Gedo linked up well with Salah upfront while Qamar remained a peripheral figure after the break, drifting deep too often in search of the ball.

Egypt deservedly went ahead on 52 minutes when Salah neatly controlled a long ball and cut inside his marker in one move. The onrushing Gedo swiftly picked up the ball and broke clear to send a low shot into the bottom corner.

Both men combined again to double Egypt's lead 12 minutes later.

A mis-hit shot was diverted by Gedo into the path of the unmarked Salah, who slotted home from close range.

Veteran goalkeeper Essam El-Hadary, 41, made his first Egypt appearance in more than a year after coming on as a second-half substitute.

He pulled off a couple of fine saves towards the end as Egypt won in their first match since suffering a humiliating 7-3 aggregate defeat by Ghana in a two-legged World Cup qualifying playoff last year.

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Puyol to leave Barcelona
4/3/2014






Barcelona captain Carles Puyol will leave the club at the end of the season following a persistent battle with a knee injury, he said on Tuesday.

The 35-year-old defender, a fans' favourite for his battling displays, has been restricted to just five league games this season and has decided to end his time at the Nou Camp.

Puyol, who made his Barca debut in 1999, has the second highest number of appearances for the club with 593, only bettered by Xavi Hernandez.

"I will leave FC Barcelona at the end of the season," he told a news conference.

"I have told the club the situation and we are both in agreement that it is the right decision. I will rescind the two years left on my contract.

"The injuries I have been suffering from have been worse than I expected and have not allowed me to play at my level."

He added: "It is not finished today, there are three months of the championship left where those that know me are aware that I will not take it easy and I will fight to the end to try and help the team achieve their objectives this season."

Puyol came through the Barcelona youth system, La Masia, and was given his debut under coach Louis van Gaal.

He has been club captain for the past 10 years, but has been restricted in the last two seasons by knee injuries.

He has won 21 titles at the club and captained the famed 'six cups' side of 2009 that won all the competitions open to them during that calendar year.

With Spain he won Euro 2008 and the 2010 World Cup but injury cost him a place in the victorious Euro 2012 squad.

Spanish media have reported the Catalan could continue his playing career at a less-demanding level, such as Major League Soccer, but he has yet to give any hint of his next move.

"I don't know what I will do after June 30, what I am sure about is that after the season I will need to rest," he added. "I have had four years without a break due to injuries. After that we will see." 


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Real Madrid all but reach last eight after 6-1 victory at Schalke
26/2/2014







 Merciless Real Madrid pounced on a glut of Schalke 04 mistakes as they romped to another 6-1 away win in the Champions League on Wednesday, their second of the season, leaving the ragged Bundesliga side shattered and embarrassed.

The round of 16, first leg bore more resemblance to a playground kickabout than Europe's top club competition as Schalke kept giving the ball away to Real, who simply ran down the other end of the pitch and scored.

Gareth Bale, Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice each and Real could quite easily have added to their tally against opponents who started promisingly but completely lost their composure after conceding two goals in a disastrous eight-minute first-half spell.

Incredibly, the home fans kept singing until the end and were rewarded when Dutch striker Klaas-Jan Huntelaar volleyed in from the edge of the area for a stoppage-time consolation

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Manchester United suffer more misery after 2-0 loss to Olympiakos
25/2/2014




Olympiakos Piraeus made it fifth time lucky on Tuesday, sweeping past an abject Manchester United team 2-0 in their Champions League last-16 first leg at the Georgios Karaiskakis Stadium.

Alejandro Dominguez opened the scoring with a clever first-half flick and Arsenal loanee Joel Campbell added a sublime second goal to leave United facing a huge task to overturn the deficit in the return match at Old Trafford next month.

"That's the worst we've played in Europe. We didn't deserve to get anything," United manager David Moyes was quoted as saying by the BBC. "I'm surprised, I didn't see that level of performance coming.

"I take responsibility, we have to play better. The players are hurting."

Defeat represented another body blow in an inauspicious season for the English Premier League title winners.

The Champions League is United's last chance of a trophy and they looked sluggish and disjointed against an inexperienced Olympiakos side who are bidding to reach the quarter-finals for only the second time in their history.

It was the first time the Greeks had beaten United in five attempts.

Moyes opted to start with two wingers, Antonio Valencia and Ashley Young, but neither made an impact in a first half in which Olympiakos displayed real energy and hunger.

After a cautious opening from both sides amid ear-splitting noise from an enthusiastic home crowd, the first chance fell to Olympiakos with Dominquez bursting through the middle on a solo run only to be denied by a last-ditch tackle from Nemanja Vidic.

Midfielder Tom Cleverley registered United's only effort of note in the first half with a 17th-minute half-volley that sailed high over the bar.

Peripheral figures

Strike pair Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie were peripheral figures for the visitors as pot shots on goal from Giannis Maniatis and Hernan Perez lifted the home supporters.

Olympiakos, wearing red and white jerseys, red shorts and socks, broke the deadlock seven minutes before halftime with a clever piece of improvisation from Argentine forward Dominguez.

Patrice Evra's half-hearted clearance from a corner landed at the feet of Maniatis 25 metres out and his tame, low shot was expertly diverted past keeper David De Gea by Dominguez's flick.

United, the European champions in 1968, 1999 and 2008, were punished again for poor defending 10 minutes into the second half.

Campbell, who is likely to feature for Costa Rica against Group D rivals England at the World Cup in Brazil in June, did the damage.

He picked up possession 25 metres out, jinked past midfielder Michael Carrick and sent a curling left-foot shot around defender Rio Ferdinand and into the bottom corner of the net.

Moyes sent on Danny Welbeck and Shinji Kagawa for Valencia and Cleverley but it was more a change in attitude than personnel that was required from United.

Dutch striker Van Persie summed up his team's night with five minutes to go. He received the ball 12 metres out and turned inside a defender before blazing a right-foot shot way over the bar.

"We had good possession in the first half and were controlling the game without really penetrating and causing them any problems," said Carrick. "But at the same time they weren't causing us any problems and the goals came from nothing.

"We didn't start the second half very well, we were a bit sloppy really, and they scored the second goal which put us on the back foot."


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AC Milan will evaluate Ahly trophies, says CEO Galliani
22/2/2014






Ahly's claim that they now hold title of most successful club in the world has worried Milan

Milan vice-president and CEO Adriano Galliani says the Italian giants will investigate their loss of the most successful club in the world title to Egyptian giants Ahly.

Ahly was given their sixth African Super Cup title on Thursday, which came as a blow for Milan, whose officials are regularly heard to claim that the Italian club's 18 international trophies make it the most successful club worldwide.

The African Super Cup trophy was Ahly's nineteenth international trophy, pushing the Egyptian favourites to the top, in terms of accolades won.

"We will evaluate whether their trophies are all approved. If we find that this is true we will still remain the most titled club in Europe," Galliani was quoted as saying by Italian daily Corriere della Sera.

Argentina’s Boca Juniors now share the same number of international trophies as Milan, while Independiente and Real Madrid are on 16, and Barcelona 14.

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Ahly maintain African supremacy with sixth Super Cup title
20/2/2014




Egyptian football club Al Ahly won a record-extending sixth Confederation of African Football Super Cup title, beating Sfaxien of Tunisia 3-2 in Cairo.

Ahly shrugged off poor domestic form to defeat their Tunisian opponents in the annual event.

In front of a 30,000 strong crowd at the Cairo International Stadium, the 'Red Devils' twice built two-goal leads only to be pegged back by the resilient visitors.

When Ben Youssef scored for Sfaxien 12 minutes from time just one goal separated the clubs, ensuring a tense finish to the match.

Former Hull City striker Mohamed 'Gedo' Nagy had opened the scoring with the only goal of the first half. After settling slowly, Ahly posed a threat thanks to the runs and crosses of Ahmed Abdel Moneim down the right flank.

'Gedo' took advantage of a cross midway through the opening half, controlling the ball superbly before firing past goalkeeper Rami Jeridi.

Amr Gamal doubled the lead with a close-range shot on 54 minutes only for Sfaxien to hit back when a foul by veteran Wael Gomaa allowed Sfaxien Captain Ali Maaloul to convert a spot-kick.

Cameroon-born substitute Moussa Yedan crossed for Gamal to head Ahly back into a two-goal lead with his second goal of the game. Sfaxien then struck again, narrowing the gap through Youssef's late strike to make it an anxious climax for the home supporters.

Ahly also had one goal to spare when they met Sfaxien five years ago in the Super Cup, a one-off game between the Champions League and Confederation Cup winners.

Victory will come as a big relief for embattled Ahly coach Mohamed Youssef after a string of national league defeats to modest opponents, the latest being a loss at El-Gouna last weekend - their third defeat in nine outings.

While Ahly celebrated another Super Cup triumph, Sfaxien became the unwanted holders of the record for most losses with three.

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Zamalek beat Niger's Douanes again to reach last 32
16/2/2014






Zamalek eased into the last 32 of the African Champions League after claiming a 1-0 win away to Niger's AS Douanes to complete a 3-0 aggregate victory on Sunday.

Winger Hazem Emam, who came on as a second-half substitute, finished off a breakaway five minutes past the hour mark to make the most of a rare chance for the visitors and lift them to the next round.

The Cairo giants, who won the last of their five Champions League titles in 2002, will face Angola's Kabuscorp for a last-16 place. The group stage begins at the quarter-final phase.

Zamalek's rookie coach Mido, who led his side to four victories in his first five matches in charge, adopted a cautious strategy that saw him deploy three holding midfielders to nullify the hosts' attacks.

Douanes had the better possession but created few goal-scoring chances. Their best chance came on the stroke of halftime but Zamalek's veteran keeper Abdel-Wahed El-Sayed rushed out to thwart a close-range shot.

Zamalek ended the game as a contest in the 65th minute when striker Ahmed Gaafar held off his challenger to control a long pass and square the ball to the unmarked Emam, whose first-timer went past the advancing keeper from inside the area.

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Gouna compound Ahly's misery with stunning win
15/2/2014








Gouna cause a huge upset with a 1-0 victory over below-par Ahly, who slumped to their third defeat this season.

An Ahly side lacking spark and imagination continued their poor run with a stunning 1-0 defeat by lowly Gouna on Saturday, casting further doubts over their ability to defend the title they won the past seven editions.

The Cairo giants, who are still struggling to cope with the retirement of talismanic playmaker Mohamed Abou-Treika, were undone by a second-half goal from Gouna's Sherif Reda.

Gouna, who were second from bottom before playing their fancied opponents, could have even won by a bigger margins had they converted several goal-scoring opportunities in the latter stages of the game, played on their home soil in a Red Sea resort.

It is Ahly's third loss in their last five matches. They are still second in Group A with 16 points, on level with third-placed Smouha who will leapfrog them if they win their two matches in hand.

The loss to Gouna raises alarm bells among Ahly's backroom staff ahead of Thursday's tough encounter at home to Tunisia's Sfaxien in the African Super Cup.

Few chances

Ahly followed the same pattern of slow tempo movement which has hampered them lately. They struggled for creativity without Abou-Treika and injured winger Walid Soliman, with their forwards aimlessly roaming around the opponents' area.

Chances were at a premium in a first-half littered with too many mis-placed passes but Gouna appeared slightly better, wasting a chance to take the lead on 16 minutes.

Karim El-Daw dispossessed Ahly's Ahmed 'Manga' Nabil and jinked towards the area but his eventual shot flew wide.

Gouna's breakaways unsettled Ahly's shaky backline in the second half, leaving the Red Devils' defenders chasing shadows for long spells.

The opener came from a set piece, however, when an innocuous free kick eluded Ahly's defenders and found Reda, who held off his marker Saad Samir, swiveled and fired home.

Ahly remained on the back foot after falling behind; allowing their opponents to launch repeated counter attacks and expose their defensive frailties.

Islam Mohareb made two forays after riding the challenges of several defenders, one of which saw him go one-on-one with keeper Sherif Ekramy, who blocked his low shot in the 69th minute.

The introduction of youngster Amr Gamal and forward El-Sayed Hamdi did little to improve the sluggish attack of Ahly, whose only chance saw Ahmed Raouf fire straight at the keeper with the goal at his mercy in stoppage time.

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Ahly coach unsatisfied with display

An unimpressive Ahly edge out Ghazl El-Mahalla 1-0
6/2/2014











A lacklustre Ahly side registered an unimpressive 1-0 Egyptian Premier League win over Ghazl El-Mahalla in a game that witnessed the dismissal of three players.

Abdallah El-Saied scored the sole goal of the game from the spot to help Ahly bounce back from two league defeats and become level on points with Group A leaders Arab Contractors.

The characteristic feature of the match, however, was rather the sending off of two Mahalla players and one man from Ahly – with Egypt center-half Wael Gomaa the first to receive his marching orders after 22 minutes.

But Mahalla didn't enjoy their numerical advantage for long, with forward Saad Abdel-Aati "Mando" dismissed on the half-hour mark after being handed his second yellow card.

Near the end, another forward, Mahmoud Bazid, also saw red for another two bookable offences as Mahalla played nine minutes with nine men.

Ahly manager Mohamed Youssef fielded 17-year-old youngster Ramadan Sobhy alongside striker Ahmed Raouf as Mahmoud "Trezeguet" and El-Sayed Hamdy had been left out.

Ahly now hold second place in their group, trailing Arab Contractors by goal difference, as Mahalla remain languishing in ninth place with four points.

Two dismissals

Ahly dictated play outright, laying siege to Mahalla's area as the hosts' first chance came through debutant Sobhy, whose strike missed the target.

The 12th minute then witnessed a big chance for Ahly, with a Mahalla defender clearing the ball off the line after El-Saied's initial shot from the left was palmed by the keeper.

The Cairo giants, however, were dealt a major blow nine minutes later when Gomaa, who was sent off against Contractors a fortnight ago, saw red again, this time for tugging a clear-on-goal Hossam Arafat.

Despite the numerical advantage, Mahalla didn't seem determined to make the most of their additional man until they also lost Mando 10 minutes later.  

Mando was sent off for a second bookable offence after tripping midfielder Shehab Ahmed as both teams continued to play with ten men.

El-Saied goal

An insipid second half saw Ahly maintain their dominance, albeit without creating many clear-cut chances.

The 57th minute saw midfielder Ahmed Shokry hit a close-range strike that was blocked by the keeper. El-Saied saw another shot miss the target after brilliantly turning, holding off his maker.

It wasn't until the 64th minute that the Reds went ahead, after striker Raouf was brought down inside the box as the referee pointed to the spot.

El-Saied made no mistake from nine yards, sending the keeper the wrong way for Ahly's opener of the night.

Despite taking the lead, the African champions didn't redeem themselves much – still struggling to pose any real threat to their lowly opponents' goal.

Even the dismissal of Bazid five minutes from regular time didn't change Ahly's lame approach, satisfied with their slender lead. 

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Shikabala completes stoppage-time move to Sporting Lisbon
31/1/2014






Shikabala finally completed his move from Zamalek to Sporting Lisbon in the early hours of Saturday after a last-minute hurdle incurred the player’s wrath and put the deal on the verge of collapse.


The winger joined Sporting on a four-and-a-half year deal with a release clause of 45 million euros, the club said on their Facebook page.

"It was a difficult negotiation, but what matters now is that realized a great dream and I am at one of the biggest clubs in Europe," Shikabala said. 

Sporting initially rejected an earlier agreement between Shikabala and Zamalek that would have seen the player pay the Cairo side $250,000 from any future sale and another $500,000 later in addition to a transfer fee of $250,000 to be paid by the Portuguese outfit.

Shikabala pleaded with Zamalek, who said they wanted guarantees that the player would be able to pay the amount he owes them, to soften their stance to allow him to join Sporting shortly before the closure of the January transfer window.

A final agreement was reached between Sporting and Zamalek that would see the former pay the Egyptian outfit $514,000 over two years in addition to 5 percent of any future sale, according to football agent Abdel-Rahman Magdy, who acted as a go-between.

Earlier on Friday, Shikabala said Sporting considered Zamalek’s demands “farcical”.

“This is unfair. What Zamalek are doing is very unfair. They don’t want to accept the $250,000 transfer fee Sporting are due to pay,” the 27-year-old said in a phone interview with Egyptian satellite channel Sada El-Balad,

“They want me to pay them an additional $250,000 from any future sale and another $500,000 [later]. I will not play again if that transfer fails. After I saw the reception I got in Lisbon I won’t play in Egypt again.”

Shikabala passed a medical earlier in the day to come within a whisker of sealing a surprise move to Sporting after falling out with Zamalek over unpaid salaries.

Zamalek's new coach Ahmed Hossam 'Mido' said last week he would try to coax Shikabala into staying but the temperamental player stood firm.

A product of Zamalek's youth academy, the talented schemer is a fan favourite but is often criticised for failing to live up to his potential due to his on and off-field antics.

His only spell in Europe was with Greek side PAOK between 2005 and 2007.

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Chelsea agrees Salah transfer fee
23/1/2014









Chelsea have agreed a fee with Basel for the signing of winger Mohamed Salah.

The capture of the Egypt international, which is subject to him agreeing personal terms and passing a medical, could mean Juan Mata's move toManchester United will now go ahead.

A statement on chelseafc.com read: "Chelsea Football Club can confirm an agreement has been reached with FC Basel for the transfer of their 21-year-old attacking midfielder Mohamed Salah.

"The move is subject to the Egyptian international agreeing personal terms and completing a medical examination."

Provided the finer details of the move are confirmed swiftly, Salah could make his debut in Sunday'sFA Cup fourth round tie at home to Stoke.

He becomes Chelsea's third signing of the winter transfer window, following Bertrand Traore and Nemanja Matic.

So impressed was Jose Mourinho with Salah's performance as Chelsea twice lost to Basle in the Champions League group stages that the Blues boss made his move.

Salah scored in three of the Swiss side's four recent meetings with Chelsea - a goal in each of this season's Group E Champions League wins and also netting in the second leg of last term's Europa League semi-final.

Salah was also being courted by Liverpool, who earlier on Thursday conceded defeat in their pursuit of the winger.

The move is reminiscent of the deal for Willian, who had already completed a medical at Tottenham before signing for Chelsea last August.

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England's Cambridge to include Ahly's history in their syllabus
23/1/2014







The UK's University of Cambridge has reportedly asked Egyptian giants Ahly to share with the school the team's history to be included in the university's syllabus, the club announced on Thursday.


"Ahly management agreed to Cambridge's request and asked board member Khaled Mortagy to contact the university to inquire about the information they need," read a statement on the club's official website on Thursday.

Cambridge, a collegiate research university in England founded in 1209, is the second-oldest university in English-speaking areas, and the world's third-oldest surviving university.

Ahly was recently named as the best team in Africa after extending  its CAF Championship record to eight.

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Prosecutor asks Ribery and Benzema be cleared in sex trial
23/1/2014






A prosecutor asked on Wednesday that French soccer internationals Franck Ribery and Karim Benzema be discharged of solicitation of an underage prostiture.

"It is impossible for the accusation to prove that Franck Ribery was aware" that Zahia Dehar, a prostitute-turned-fashion model, was under 18 -- the age of majority in France, prosecutor Jean-Julien Xavier-Rolai told the Correctional Court of Paris.

Xavier-Rolin added that Benzema should also be discharged.

Real Madrid striker Benzema and Bayern Munich forward Ribery, who were not attending the four-day trial, were being tried on charges of paying Dehar when she was aged 16 and 17.

Ribery has admitted paying her for sex but said he did not know how hold she was. Benzema has denied having any sexual relations with Dehar.

Paying for sex is not illegal in France but underage prostitution is.

Last December, the National Assembly passed a bill to fine prostitutes clients, but it still has to pass the Senate and be signed by president Francois Hollande before it becomes law.

The judges' decision is expected on Thursday, although it is highly likely that the case will be adjourned for further deliberation

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Mido eyes success with Zamalek
22/1/2014








Egypt's youngest-ever manager is hoping for success in his first coaching job at Zamalek, hopes the club will regain star Shikabala



Zamalek's newly appointed coach Ahmed Hossam 'Mido' has expressed his delight at taking charge of his home club and insisted that he can be a success despite being only 30-years-old.


The Cairo giants officially announced the appointment of the Pharaohs former attacker late on Tuesday without disclosing further details.

The former Ajax, Marseille, Roma and Tottenham striker succeeds Helmi Toulan who was sacked after the team's latest draw against Haras El-Hodoud.           

“I refused to coach the youth team at Paris Saint-Germain, Egypt’s Masry and other offers to take charge of my beloved club,” Mido said in televised comments in the early hours of Wednesday.

Mido - who will turn 31 on 23 February - is set to become the youngest coach in Egyptian football history. He worked as a football analyst at Al Jazeera Sports after his retirement from playing last summer.

Although Mido lacks high-profile coaching experience, Zamalek are gambling on the vast experience of this much-travelled player who was a part of a number of great European clubs for more than a decade.

He is known for his passion and leading personality, which it is hoped will help him control a squad that is hampered by a lack of discipline.

“For those who criticise my appointment because of my age, it is normal in Europe and I am ready for the challenge, especially as I was always a leader on the pitch as a player,” said Mido, who won the African Cup of Nations title with Egypt in 2006.

“It is my destiny to be at the place I've adored since my childhood. My success with Zamalek will be a chance to see other young coaches working in Egyptian football.

“I decided to quit playing football at a young age and I have already worked as a football analyst and that helped to enlarge my experience. Sure I will attend further coaching courses but my current experience is good one.

“I chose my older assistants to make a balance inside the technical team and this is also ordinary in European football,” he added.

Egypt Cup holders Zamalek have been suffering from a severe financial crises that saw the players not paid for several months. Stars like playmaker Mahmoud Abdel-Razek 'Shikabala' and striker Ahmed Eid Abdel-Malek asked to leave for that reason.

“It is not true that I will work for free in my first season. Also I will try to solve the problem with Shikabala. I hope he will be in my squad and there are already talks to get him back,” Mido concluded.

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Manchester United's Rooney appreciates cheerful welcome in Egypt
12/1/2014




Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney gets a warm reception on arrival to Sinai's Sharm El-Sheikh, where he hopes to recover from a niggling injury

Egyptians in Sinai's Sharm El-Sheikh bustled excitedly to take commemorative photographs with England and Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney, who is currently in the Red Sea resort recuperating in the warmer climate from a recurrent groin injury.


English Premier League giants Manchester United sent star striker Rooney to Egypt along with a fitness coach to recover from the injury that sidelined him from his team's squad last month.

The temperature in Sharm El-Sheikh is ranging between 13 and 25 °C this week, according to forecasts.

Manchester United are dropping points in the English Premier League this season, currently seventh in the team table with 37 points after losing six games. The team's management hopes to have Rooney back in the squad as soon as possible, to retain Man United's place in the top echelon of the league.

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Yaya Toure named African player of the year 2013
9/1/2013





Ivory Coast and Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure has been named African Player of the Year 2013 on Thursday during the Glo-CAF awards ceremony held in Lagos, Nigeria.

Toure beat teammate Didier Drogba and Nigeria's John Obi Mikel.

The 30-year old midfielder hat-trick of wins, emulating Cameroon's Samuel Eto'o who won the title in 2003, 2004 and 2005 (He also won a fourth-record award in 2010).

"To be the winner today is unbelievable," Toure said. "I am very happy and very, very proud."

Toure, 31 in May, may not have won a major trophy for club and country last year but his class has shone through at both domestic level and for the Elephants of Ivory Coast.

He scored 10 goals for Manchester City so far this season putting them just behind leaders Arsenal and helped Ivory Coast book a third straight World Cup ticket.

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Egypt rising star Gomaa joins Portugal’s Nacional
9/1/2014






Former Egypt U-20 midfield star Saleh Gomaa has joined Portuguese side Nacional Madeira, according to the club’s official website.

The ENPPI forward, who was part of the Egypt squad that featured in last summer’s U-20 World Cup in Turkey, completed the move on Thursday – even though the club did not disclose the length of the deal nor the transfer fee.

“I am very happy to be at a big club like Nacional and I hope things will go well for me here,“ Gomaa told the club’s official website.

“During the past year and a half I received offers from several clubs. But my desire to play at a league with attractive football at a club that would help me develop my career made me reject them all.

“I saw Nacional play several times before coming here, their game is very much like our football.

“Also, this team is like a family and I've had the opportunity to feel it as soon as I arrived at the city. It is fantastic and I feel very comfortable being here.

“I hope to be a good addition to the team and work well with everyone; players, coaches and officials to help National succeed,” he concluded.

Gomaa, 20, was on the radar of several European sides last summer – having undergone trials with the likes of Borussia Dortmund and Anderlecht among other outfits.

A deal with any overseas side, however, was never struck – as Egypt’s dismal poor World Cup campaign was believed to have taken a toll on Gomaa’s chances abroad.

He will now be joining defender Aly Ghazal who moved to the club early in 2013.

Nacional are currently sixth of the Liga Sagres table with the second half of the season still to go. 

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England Premier League results and scorers
1/1/2014 









Wednesday 1 January


Swansea City 2-3 Manchester City
Scorers: Bony 45, 90/ Fernandinho 14, Toure 58, Kolarov 66

Arsenal 2-0 Cardiff City
Scorers: Bendtner 88, Walcott 90+2

Crystal Palace 1-1 Norwich City
Scorers: Puncheon 44 (pen)/ Johnson 39

Fulham 2-1 West Ham United
Scorers: Sidwell 32, Berbatov 66/ Diame 7 

Liverpool 2-0 Hull City
Scorers: Agger 36, Suarez 50

Southampton 0-3 Chelsea
Scorers: Torres 60, Willian 71, Oscar 82

Stoke City 1-1 Everton
Scorers: Assaidi 49/ Baines 90 (pen)

Sunderland 0-1 Aston Villa
Scorer: Agbonlahor 15

West Bromwich Albion 1-0 Newcastle United
Scorer: Berahino 87 (pen)

Manchester United 1-2 Tottenham Hotspur
Scorers: Welbeck 67/ Adebayor 34, Eriksen 66

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England Premier League fixtures and results 

28/12/2013









West Ham United 3-3 West Bromwich Albion 
Scorers: Cole 4, Maiga 65, Nolan 67/ Anelka 40, 45, 69

Aston Villa  1 - 1  Swansea City
Scorers: Agbonlahor 7 / Lamah 36

Hull City  6 - 0  Fulham
Scorers: Elmohamady 49, Koren 60, 84, Boyd 63, Huddlestone 67, Fryatt 74

Manchester City  1 - 0  Crystal Palace
Scorers: Dzeko 66

Norwich City  0 - 1  Manchester United
Scorers: Welbeck 57

Cardiff City 2-2 Sunderland
Scorers: Mutch 6, Campbell 58 / Fletcher 83, Colback 90

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Transfer news: Liverpool - January transfer targets

20/12/2013

Liverpool have shocked many with their impressive start to the season that sees them actually in the contest for the Champions League places.



However, if they want to secure fourth place - or perhaps (in the minds of their more optimistic fans) the title - then a few more decent reinforcements are needed in January.

Certainly their very successful strikeforce may at some point need some support to help take the strain, while Steven Gerrard is not getting any younger and consequently the midfield could do with some new faces.

Mohamed Salah - Scored home and away against Chelsea in the Champions League, the 'Egyptian Messi' is certainly on Liverpool's radar. A £12m bid is rumoured to be in the offing.

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Luis Suarez signs new contract at LFC




20th Dec 2013



Luis Suarez today committed his future to Liverpool Football Club by signing a new long-term contract at Melwood.


The 26-year-old Uruguayan insists he is 'proud' and 'delighted' at having put pen to paper on the new extended deal and is focused on helping the club achieve its ambitions of sustainable success both domestically and in Europe.

The Reds' No.7 also paid tribute to the supporters, citing the 'special relationship' he has with them as a key factor in reaffirming his commitment to Liverpool.

Suarez joined the club in January 2011 and is widely regarded as one of the most talented players in world football. This season alone, Suarez has scored 17 goals in 11 Barclays Premier League starts.

"I am delighted to have agreed a new deal with Liverpool and have my future secured for the long term," said Suarez.

"We have some great players and the team is growing and improving all the time. I believe I can achieve the ambitions of winning trophies and playing at the very highest level with Liverpool. My aim is to help get us there as quickly as possible.

"Without doubt the backing I have received from the Liverpool fans has influenced my decision. I am so proud to represent them and go out to do my best for them every time I pull on the shirt.

"We have a special relationship; they have love for me and in return I love them back. I will always do my best for them and hopefully we can achieve success together."

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Morocco's Raja stuns Ronaldinho's Atletico at Club World Cup



19/12/2013




Raja Casablanca scored twice in the last 10 minutes to stun Brazil's Atletico Mineiro 3-1 in their Club World Cup semi-final on Wednesday and earn a place in the final against Bayern Munich.


Mohaine Moutaouali fired home a controversial penalty in the 83rd minute and Vivien Mabide wrapped it up in stoppage time with a breakaway goal amid chaotic scenes.

Mouhssine Iajour had given Raja, who qualified as champions of host nation Morocco, the lead early in the second half before Ronaldinho curled a free kick in off the post to level for the South American champions.

It will be only the second time since the tournament has been played in its current format in 2005 that the final has not been between a South American and European team.

There were incredible scenes at the end as the Raja players surrounded Ronaldinho to ask for his shirt and took off his boots.

Mineiro, who had spent six months dreaming of the tournament since they won the Libertadores Cup, slunk disconsolately away, leaving their army of 10,000 fans with a long, painful journey back to Belo Horizonte.

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Woeful Ahly lose 5-1 for their worst Club World Cup defeat



18/12/2013




Egypt's Ahly finish sixth for the third time in five Club World Cup appearances after suffering an embarrassing 5-1 defeat by Mexico's Monterrey in Marrakech on Wednesday

Egypt's stuttering side Ahly not only failed to claim a consolation win at the Club World Cup, but also suffered their worst-ever defeat in the tournament after losing 5-1 to Mexico's Monterrey in the fifth-place playoff on Wednesday.

The Cairo giants were ruthlessly punished by Monterrey, who also defeated them in last year's third-place playoff, to finish sixth for the third time in five Club World Cup appearances.

A brace from Cesar Delgado, who took his tally to five goals to become the tournament's all-time top scorer, and strikes from Neri Cardozo, Luis Lopez and Humberto Suazo condemned Ahly to a stunning loss.

Emad Meteb notched Ahly's only goal, which proved largely meaningless as the African champions failed to make up for several injuries which hit their key players lately, including talismanic playmaker Mohamed Abou-Treika who is likely to hang up his boots.

Run riot

Meteb sent a free header just over the crossbar after two minutes but it was a rare sight of goal for Ahly, with Monterrey shredding their mean defence to ribbons to run riot.

The Mexicans opened the floodgates one minute later when Cardozo caught Ahly's right-back Ahmed Fathi dozing to ghost behind him and drill a low shot home from inside the area after making the most of a deft pass.

Meteb briefly brought Ahly level with a fine eighth-minute strike, beating the offside trap to neatly control a long ball from left-back Ahmed Shedid and shoot through the legs of keeper Juan de Dios from close range.

But Ahly's defensive frailties still allowed Monterrey to jink into the area far too easily, with the sluggishness of central defensive pair Wael Gomaa and Mohamed Naguib costing them dearly.

Delgado restored Monterrey's advantage midway through the first half when he was found unmarked by a defence-splitting pass to rifle home past Ahly's hapless keeper Sherif Ekramy.

Lopez added the third in the 27th minute with a volley that squirmed beneath Ekramy and Suazo put the result beyond doubt when he converted a penalty on the stroke of halftime after being felled by a clumsy challenge from Gomaa.

Ahly relatively improved in the early stages of the second half, with playmaker Abdallah El-Said forcing a fine save from De Dios with a snapshot.

However, Monterrey still managed to widen the gap with a fifth goal five minutes past the hour mark after the lively Delgado took full advantage of a recurring defensive lapse.

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Ex-Egypt skipper Ahmed Hassan retires from football





7/12/2013





Egypt's former skipper Ahmed Hassan decided to leave the Zamalek giants and hang up his boots following his recent appointment to the Egyptian national team's technical staff.

On Thursday, the Egyptian Football Association (EFA) said that the experienced midfielder will become the Egyptian national team's director under the guidance of newly appointed coach Shawki Gharib.

"Hassan has decided to retire from playing football after agreeing to be the national team's new manager," Zamalek said in a statement in its official website on Saturday.

"The player decided to relinquish his financial dues for the current season. He will continue to attend training sessions with Zamalek to maintain his fitness until he starts his new job next month," the statement added.

"I am very happy with my stint with Zamalek. The club board said they will organize a ceremony next Thursday to honor me and former assistant coach Osama Nabih, who has also departed to work with the national team," Hassan was quoted as saying by Zamalek's website.

Hassan joined the Whites in 2011 from arch-rivals Ahly. Former star of Kocaelispor, Denizlispor, Gençlerbirligi and Beşiktas, Hassan is one of the few Egyptian footballers to have played in Europe.

The 38-year-old ended his travels at Anderlecht, where he won the Belgian league and Super Cup in 2007, as well as the Belgian Cup in 2008.

Under Hassan Shehata's leadership, Hassan reaped four African Cup of Nations trophies -- three consequetively in 2006, 2008 and 2010 -- and also took part in the 1998 Championship.

Although Hassan is the world’s most capped player with 184 international appearances, his presence on the Egyptian squad decreased when former American coach Bob Bradley chose to inject new blood into the team.

Hassan signed a new one-year deal with Zamalek last July, but he has not been able to play in recent matches due to injury.

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Athletic Bilbao hand Barcelona first league defeat






1/12/2013





Barcelona slipped to a second consecutive defeat for the first time since April 2012 as they lost for the first time in the league this season 1-0 away to Athletic Bilbao on Sunday.

Barcelona had suffered their first defeat under coach Gerardo Martino against Ajax in midweek and Athletic appeared to learn from the Dutch champions' approach as, without the injured Lionel Messi, Barca struggled to impose themselves on the game.

Iker Muniain slotted home the only goal of the game from Markel Susaeta's cross 20 minutes from time as a third straight win moved the Basques into fourth.

The Catalans remain top of La Liga on goal difference only from Atletico Madrid with Real Madrid now just three points behind the leaders.

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Messi out for 6-8 weeks due to torn hamstring: Barcelona

Barcelona's Argentine star Lionel Messi will be sidelined for 6-8 weeks due to a muscle tear in his left hamstring muscle, the Spanish giants said Monday

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Formidable Ahly power to eighth Champions League title






10/11/2013





Ahly ensured their African supremacy will remain intact for the foreseeable future, lifting some of the gloom hanging over Egyptian football after winning a second successive Champions League title at the expense of South Africa's spirited side Orlando Pirates.


Two second-half goals from talisman Mohamed Abou-Treika and striker Ahmed Abdel-Zaher gave Ahly a 3-1 aggregate win after they held Pirates to a 1-1 draw in Soweto, clinching a record-extending eighth title in Africa's elite club competition.

Ahly played the last seven minutes with ten men after defender Sherif Abdel-Fadil was sent off for a second bookable offense, but their numerical disadvantage counted for little as they held firm in the dying minutes.

The Cairo giants' triumph came against the backdrop of a variety of problems at home, including the lack of domestic action following the army's overthrow of President Mohamed Morsi amid mass protests against his rule and the absence of their die-hard fans due to lingering security concerns.

But the supporters were allowed to attend the final in Cairo, packing the Arab Contractors Stadium where they created a feverish atmosphere to egg on the Red Devils as they defied the odds once again.

Ahly will make their fifth appearance at the Club World Cup in Morocco, where they will open their campaign against China's Guangzhou Evergrande. They will set up a mouthwatering clash against European champions Bayern Munich if they overcome Marcello Lippi's side.  

Sunday's Champions League triumph made sure classy playmaker Abou-Treika would not end his career on a disappointing note, having revealed he would hang up his boots if Ahly lost. He is now set for a last journey in his career during the Club World Cup.

He lived up to his reputation as Ahly's rescuer with a decisive goal early in the second half that sent Ahly on their way to their first win over the Pirates in four Champions League meetings this season, having lost once and drew twice in the group stage and the final first-leg.

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Real Madrid secure entertaining 2-2 draw at Juventus in Champions League




5/11/2013





Real Madrid was held to an entertaining 2-2 draw at Juventus on Tuesday, leaving the Spanish side on the verge of qualification for the Champions League knockout stages.


Juventus dominated in the first period and Arturo Vidal gave the Italian side a deserved halftime lead from the penalty spot after Paul Pogba was fouled by Raphael Varane.

Cristiano Ronaldo leveled for Madrid with his 21st goal in 16 matches this season and set up another minutes later as Gareth Bale put Carlo Ancelotti's side in front.

Madrid's lead lasted just five minutes before Fernando Llorente headed in the equalizer for Juventus.

Madrid dropped its first points but remains top of Group B with 10 points, while Juventus slips to bottom spot after Copenhagen beat Galatasaray 1-0.

Madrid won its three previous Champions League matches to take a commanding lead of the group. Juventus had just two points and knew it had to win to have a realistic chance of advancing.

Antonio Conte's team attacked from the outset and Pogba had an early opportunity, but fired wide of the left upright from distance.

Madrid had its first chance in the ninth minute when Ronaldo ran half the length of the pitch and into the area before unleashing a shot which fizzed just past the left post

The visitors again went close moments later when the world's most expensive player, Bale, won a challenge with Martin Caceres for the ball but his tame effort was comfortably saved by Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon.

Juventus should have scored in the 16th minute when Pogba's cross was almost turned into his own net by Pepe, but Iker Casillas managed to save at point blank range. Although he spilled the ball, no one could take advantage and the danger was cleared.

The Italian side went closer shortly before the 30th and Claudio Marchisio seemed almost certain to score with a header, but Casillas did brilliantly to deflect it past his right post with his leg.

Madrid was camped out in its own half and reduced to trying to hit Juventus on the counterattack. Bale went close when he curled a shot narrowly past the far corner.

Juventus broke the deadlock when Varane slid into Pogba and referee Howard Webb pointed straight to the spot. Vidal stepped up and fired into the top right corner to send Juventus Stadium into a frenzy.

Ronaldo had a chance to equalize on the stroke of halftime but spooned his effort horribly over the crossbar as he was bumped by teammate Karim Benzema.

It was the Portugal star who leveled seven minutes after the interval, chipping Benzema's through-ball over the onrushing Buffon for his eighth goal in this season's group stage, matching the record held by Ruud van Nistelrooy, Filippo Inzaghi and Hernan Crespo.

Madrid almost took the lead four minutes later but Xabi Alonso's screamer crashed off the crossbar.

It was end to end action in Turin and Marchisio again went agonisingly close with an effort which beat Casillas, but was cleared off the line by Pepe.

Madrid, which had lost its past five matches against Juventus in Turin, went in front on the hour mark. Ronaldo picked out Bale on the far side of the penalty area and the Welshman squeezed a shot in between two Juventus players and into the bottom right corner.

However, Juventus was back on level terms just five minutes later when Llorente headed Caceres' cross powerfully past Casillas' outstretched hand.

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Egypt's Ahly denied first win in South Africa after last-gasp goal




2/11/2013





South Africa's Orlando Pirates snatch a last-gasp 1-1 draw at home to defending champions Ahly in the first leg of the African Champions League final on Saturday

Defending champions Ahly came within a whisker of securing their first African Champions League win in South Africa but eventually settled for a 1-1 away to Orlando Pirates in the first leg of the competition's final on Saturday.

Veteran playmaker Mohamed Abou-Treika put Ahly in front just before the quarter-hour mark with a brilliant free-kick and Ahly looked to be cruising to a precious win in Johannesburg as they restricted the hosts to some tame efforts throughout the match.

However, Thabo Matlaba notched home deep in stoppage time after a fine individual effort to keep the Pirates' in contention for their second Champions League triumph, having won their solitary title in 1995.

Ahly are still favourites to retain the crown and extend their record to eight titles though. They will host the Pirates in the second leg on 10 November in Cairo.

The Red Devils have never won a Champions League game on South African soil, drawing four times and losing twice in six games.

The four stalemates included a valuable one when Ahly held Mamelodi Sundowns to a 1-1 draw in Pretoria in the 2001 final before crushing them 3-0 in Cairo to win the competition and end a 14-year drought.

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Ronaldo hits treble, Bale scores twice as Real Madrid win 7-3



30/10/2013






Record signing Gareth Bale and Portuguese wizard Cristiano Ronaldo shine as Real Madrid hammer Sevilla 7-3 on Wednesday

Bale was making his first start at the Santiago Bernabeu and made an immediate impact as he put the hosts 2-0 up within half an hour.

Ronaldo then added a third, but Sevilla fought back through an Ivan Rakitic penalty and Carlos Bacca.

Bale then set up Karim Benzema and Ronaldo to put Real 5-2 ahead before Rakitic replied once more with a stunning strike for Sevilla, although he was to blot his copybook by missing a penalty later.

Ronaldo went on to complete his hat-trick and Benzema rounded off the scoring after Sevilla had been reduced to 10 men when Stephane Mbia was sent-off with 14 minutes remaining.

Real boss Carlo Ancelotti had made four changes to the side that lost 2-1 to Barcelona at the weekend with Benzema restored to the number nine role between Ronaldo and Bale in attack.

And the Frenchman proved his worth in the move for the opener as he raced onto Isco's pass before cutting the ball back for Bale to fire high into the net on his favoured left foot.

Benzema then teed up Bale twice more as the Welshman was firstly denied by a smart save from Beto before blasting inches over from 20 yards.

Bale was credited with his second of the evening on 27 minutes when his free-kick took a huge deflection off the arm of Alberto Moreno and looped into the net past the helpless Beto.

Five minutes later it was 3-0 when Isco was unnecessarily dragged down inside the area by Fernando Navarro.

Ronaldo stepped up to fire home and celebrated with a military salute in a mocking response to Sepp Blatter's description of him as a "commander" last week.

Yet, Sevilla were back in the game before half-time when firstly Sergio Ramos was harshly penalised for a push on Diogo Figueiras and Rakitic converted the resulting penalty.

And two minutes later Vitolo ghosted past Alvaro Arbeloa on the right and squared for Bacca to roll into an empty net.

Sevilla could even have been level just after the break when Jairo was denied by DIego Lopez when clean through on goal.

However, seconds later a trademark Madrid break saw Ronaldo feed Bale and his cut-back was calmly slotted home by Benzema for his first goal in eight games.

Bale then provided his second assist of the evening seven minutes later as his low cross was swept home by Ronaldo.

Even at 5-2 the action was far from over as Bale was lucky to escape a booking when he threw himself to the ground looking for a penalty moments later.

And with the Real crowd still infuriated by the referee's decision not to award a penalty for that incident, Rakitic curled in a wonderful effort from outside the box to make it 5-3.

Xabi Alonso was then introduced by Ancelotti for his first appearance of the season following groin and foot injuries.

Ronaldo made the game safe when he sealed his hat-trick with a deflected effort from the edge of the area.

Rakitic, though, should have completed hat-trick of his own when Ronaldo was penalised for a foul on Figueiras just inside the area, but the Croat ballooned his second spot-kick well over the bar.

The visitors were reduced to 10 men shortly after when Mbia was shown a second yellow card after clashing with Luka Modric.

And Benzema rounded off a wild night when he headed home Marcelo's cross 11 minutes from time.

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Real Madrid ready to see 'real Bale', says Ancelotti




Oct 25, 2013






Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti believes Gareth Bale is finally ready to show his best form after a series of niggling injuries.
The Welshman has started just once since joining Los Blancos for a reported €91 million at the beginning of September.
Bale returned from a thigh problem to win a penalty in last weekend's 2-0 win over Malaga, but was largely ineffective as a second-half substitute as Madrid beat Juventus 2-1 on Wednesday.
However, Ancelotti hinted that he could start in Real's biggest game of the season to date when they travel to face Barcelona on Saturday.
"It is true that he didn't have an easy time (when he arrived), but he has worked hard.
"We used the period of the international break to improve his condition and now, in my opinion and his opinion, he is ready to play from the beginning.
"When he begins to play it will be the real Bale."
Madrid come into the game at the Camp Nou boosted, not only by the win over Juventus, but also having cut Barca's lead at the top of La Liga to three points last weekend after the Catalans could only manage a 0-0 draw away to Osasuna.
And the Italian wants his side to be brave enough to take the game to Barca in their own backyard.
"Everyone thinks that Barcelona is the favourite and that is no bad thing for us.
"The moment is good for us. In the last week we played two good games and we improved in many aspects.
"We have that to have courage and personality to play football and not just defend and wait for Barcelona. Having character and personality is exactly this, in Barcelona we need to try and play our football."
However, despite recognising the importance of striking an early psychological blow in the title race, Ancelotti doesn't believe that victory at the Camp Nou will be decisive with just under three quarters of the season still to go.
"It is very important of course because Barcelona and Atletico Madrid will fight for the league until the end of the season, but it is too early in this moment to decide the final result."
Xabi Alonso remains the only player unavailable to Ancelotti as he lacks match fitness having not played a competitive game so far this season.
However, the Italian confirmed that French defender Raphael Varane is fit and hinted that the 21-year-old will start after shining in the final three meetings with Barca last season.

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Messi scores as Barcelona share honours with AC Milan in Champions League



Oct 22, 2013







Lionel Messi, who has just returned from injury, helps Barcelona to a 1-1 draw at AC Milan in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday

Leo Messi scored a first-half equalizer to earn Barcelona a 1-1 draw against AC Milan in Group H of the Champions League on Tuesday.


Robinho gave Milan a deserved lead after only nine minutes at a packed San Siro, shortly after Sulley Muntari's strike had been ruled out for offside.

The Brazilian forward linked up impressively with compatriot Kaka, who showed flashes of his old form after a disappointing few seasons at Real Madrid, and steered the ball home from close range.

Messi leveled in the 23rd from a similar range after being left in space by Milan's rearguard, taking advantage of a mistake by Milan defender Kevin Constant.

Barcelona remains atop of Group H after two wins and a draw. Milan is second, two points behind.

In the other group match, Celtic picked up its first points with a 2-1 victory over Ajax.

It was the seventh time in three seasons the two teams had met in the Champions League, with Milan's 2-0 home win in last year's quarterfinals its best result. Barcelona humiliated the Italian side 4-0 in the return leg.

Messi, who had scored five times against Milan, started for Barcelona after recovering from a minor injury.

Milan was missing Stephan El Shaarawy and Giampaolo Pazzini up front, both out injured. Mario Balotelli had a thigh problem and was only fit for a place on the bench so Kaka — who had only just returned from injury — started alongside Robinho and Valter Birsa, with Alessandro Matri dropped to the bench.

Kaka, who previously played for Barcelona's bitter rival Real Madrid, had an impressive performance and went off to a standing ovation when he was substituted in the 71st minute.

Milan started the brighter, forcing Barcelona to defend deep at the outset and the Italian side had the ball in the back of the net in the seventh minute. Robinho carved out some space for himself on the edge of the area and threaded the ball through to Muntari, who drilled it home, but it was ruled out for offside.

There was no conjecture two minutes later. Robinho took advantage of a mixup between Gerard Pique and Javier Mascherano just inside the Barcelona half and charged downfield before playing a swift one-two with Kaka and slotting it past an onrushing Victor Valdes and into an empty net.

Barcelona had rarely threatened in the opening stages and its best chance came in the 19th minute when Messi curled a free kick the wrong side of the near post from the right of the penalty area.

The Spanish side went closer a minute later when Messi sent a low ball across the face of goal which Milan goalkeeper Marco Amelia did well to smother.

Barcelona leveled shortly afterward as Milan lost the ball in midfield and Andres Iniesta picked out an unmarked Messi, who cut inside and evaded Constant to squeeze a shot into the bottom right corner.

Milan almost restored its lead four minutes later but Philippe Mexes headed a corner just the wrong side of the right hand post.

The frantic pace of the opening half hour calmed down somewhat but Barcelona nevertheless had chances to take the lead before halftime as first Neymar's speculative long-range shot flew past the right upright before Amelia got down well to block an Alexis Sanchez volley.

Neymar had another good opportunity on the stroke of halftime as Cristian Zapata's header came out to the unmarked Brazilian on the left side of the area but he volleyed just past the right upright.

Robinho should have restored Milan's lead six minutes after the break but the Brazilian, who was all alone in the middle of the area, appeared to misjudge the flight of Muntari's pass and jumped over it as it rolled harmlessly wide.

Balotelli was brought on for Robinho shortly after the hour mark, much to the crowd's delight, and his team went close to taking the lead moments later when Montolivo spun on the ball in midfield and picked out Constant, who drove a long-range effort past the right post.

Neymar should have scored in the 70th but he struggled to bring the ball down just in front of goal and missed from close range.

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Mexico Announces Roster for 2013 U.S. Tour Match against Finland in San Diego on October 30


Oct 19, 2013





Mexico Head Coach Miguel “Piojo” Herrera today announced the 22-man roster for Mexico’s U.S. Tour match against Finland this coming Wednesday, October 30 at 11 p.m. ET at Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego. The match, presented by AT&T, will be the only one for Herrera to prepare his squad ahead of the decisive playoff series against New Zealand for a berth to the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

Tickets for the game are still available through www.Ticketmaster.com, by calling 1-800-745-3000 and at all Southern California-area Ticketmaster locations. The Federación Mexicana de Fútbol invites fans to use their VISA cards.

The Mexican National Team roster features the call-up of 10 players from Club America, including veteran defender Francisco Javier Rodriguez, and standout forward Raul Jimenez. Experienced Cruz Azul goalkeeper Jose de Jesus Corona is also included in the roster. Additionally, the roster includes talented young players who are receiving their first call-up to El Tricolor, such as Leon defender Edwin Hernandez and midfielders Rodrigo Salinas (Morelia), Miguel Herrera (Pachuca), Luis Ángel Mendoza (América) and Jesús Alonso Escobaza (Santos).

The match’s half time show will be performed by international duo Jesse & Joy.

Media planning to cover the upcoming Mexican National Team match against Finland can apply now for media credentials using the online form by clicking on the following link:

https://secure.sportssystems.com/events2/?eventKey=2bb21792-aaf8-40f0-807e-765ed355fe3c

The deadline to submit a credential application is tomorrow, Monday, October 21 at 5:00 p.m. ET. No credential applications will be accepted after the deadline.

 

MEXICO ROSTER:

 

Goalkeepers: Jesús Corona (Cruz Azul/MEX), Moisés Muñoz (América /MEX)

Defenders: Rafael Márquez (León/MEX), Juan Carlos Valenzuela (América /MEX), Paul Aguilar Nilo (América /MEX),  Francisco Rodríguez (América/MEX), Miguel Layún (América/MEX), Edwin Hernández (León/MEX), Adrián Aldrete (América/MEX), Miguel Herrera (Pachuca/MEX), Hiram Mier (Monterrey/MEX)

Midfielders: Rodrigo Salinas (Morelia/MEX), Juan Carlos Medina (América/MEX), Lucas Lobos (Tigres UANL/MEX), Jesús Molina (América/MEX), Luis Ángel Mendoza (América/MEX), Carlos Peña (León/MEX), Luis Montes (León/MEX), Jesús Alonso Escoboza (Santos/MEX)

Forwards: Oribe Peralta (Santos/MEX), Aldo de Nigris (Guadalajara/MEX), Raúl Jiménez (América/MEX)

Head Coach: Miguel Herrera

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Ghana thrash Egypt, put one foot in Brazil




Oct 15, 2013





Ghana put one foot in the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™ with an emphatic 6-1 victory over Egypt in the first leg of their qualification play-off in Kumasi.

The hosts dominated from the outset at Baba Yara Stadium and deservedly took the lead inside five minutes through captain Asamoah Gyan. Wael Gomaa's own goal doubled the lead, before Mohamed Aboutrika's penalty four minutes before the interval gave the Pharaohs hope.

Yet that hope was extinguished almost immediately as Majeed Waris made it 3-1 at half-time, while a second for Gyan, a Sulley Muntari penalty and a wonderful late Christian Atsu strike wrapped up the scoring in the second period.

Ghana laid siege to the Egypt goal from the first whistle with visiting goalkeeper Sherif Ekramy getting involved early on, including picking up an injury that would eventually force him off after the break. The ailing Ekramy was in the firing line again in the fifth minute as Ghana went ahead, Waris unlocking the Egyptdefence with a flick around the corner for Gyan who ran on before firing a shot in via the far post.

The one-way traffic continued and on 22 minutes it was 2-0 when Michael Essien was allowed to slalom into the Egypt penalty area. The Chelsea midfielder looked as though he had overdone his run when he was held up on the edge of the six-yard box by a combination of goalkeeper and defender, but earned a slice of luck when Gomaa ran in to challenge and deflected the ball into his own net.

Egypt should have had a goal back in the 34th minute when Aboutrika's excellent free-kick found Mohamed Naguib unmarked a yard from the line at the far post but the defender could only head wastefully over the bar.

The visitors had a lifeline with five minutes left in the half when Rashid Sumaila needlessly barged into the back of Mohamed Salah inside the area to concede a penalty, which Aboutrika coolly slotted home.

But the hosts soon restored their two-goal cushion as Waris climbed highest to nod home a Muntari free-kick a minute before the break.

The action refused to let up and eight minutes after the restart Ghana had their fourth as Muntari saw his athletic bicycle kick bounce up invitingly into the six-yard box where Gyan showed good strength to nod past Ekramy.

Egypt's woes continued when they lost Ekramy to his earlier injury, with Ahmed Elshenawi coming on in his place, but with 20 minutes remaining the replacement was in trouble when he rushed from his line to challenge Waris but succeeded only in conceding a penalty.

With Gyan on a hat-trick the captain would perhaps have been tempted to pull rank and take the spot-kick for himself, but instead it was Muntari who stepped up to send the keeper the wrong way.

There was still time for substitute Atsu to make an eye-catching contribution just moments after coming on in the 83rd minute, running at the beleaguered Pharaohs backline and firing a powerful low shot in off a post to give his side a seemingly unassailable advantage heading into the return leg.

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Madrid can win a match in five minutes - Ancelotti




5/10/2013






The Blancos boss hailed his side's quality and character in snatching a late victory in Valencia, and reiterated that he will continue placing his faith in the club's youngsters

Carlo Ancelotti heaped praise on his Real Madrid side following their sensational 3-2 triumph over Levante on Saturday.
Los Blancos twice hauled themselves level through Sergio Ramos and Alvaro Morata before Cristiano Ronaldo fired home the winner in Valencia with just 30 seconds to go.

"Our first half wasn’t too good but the second half turned out differently," Ancelotti told reporters after the match. "When Real Madrid play well, we can win a match in five minutes."

It was important for us to get a victory. We didn’t play fantastic football but we did deserve to win. And when you have players who battle and never give in, there’s always a chance to improve.
"The players made a huge sacrifice and never surrendered."
Morata and Jese Rodriguez played key roles in the come-from-behind win and Ancelotti says that the young duo will continue to see plenty of game time under him, even suggesting that the former could occasionally be selected ahead of Karim Benzema.

They don’t need to convince me because I already have faith in them," the 54-year-old explained. "Morata scored and Jese looked dangerous when he got the ball.
"They both showed great enthusiasm when they came on. I have the same confidence in them as I had before tonight’s game.

"It [starting Morata] could happen, although he hasn’t got Benzema’s experience. He’s an important player for us and he’s doing really well."

The win ensures Madrid maintain pace with front-runners Barcelona at the top of the Primera Liga, after the Catalans' 4-1 victory over Vallodolid.

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Updated: Ahly's clash at Coton Sport cancelled, to be replayed on Sunday




5/10/2013





Ahly's game away to Cameroon's Coton Sport in the Champions League semi-final cancelled due to bad weather conditions in Garoua

Ahly's clash against Cameroon's Coton Sport in the first leg of the African Champions League semi-final was called off midway through the second half on Saturday due to bad weather conditions in Garoua.

The rain-soaked pitch was rendered unplayable by Zambian referee Jan Sikazwe after heavy water poured down on it after the break.

According to CAF's Champions League regulations, the match will be replayed on Sunday.

Article 7 of the competition regulations states that: "If the match is stopped before the end of the regular time for reasons of force majeure and notably for poor ground conditions and or bad weather conditions to be decided upon by the referee, the match is to be replayed 24 hours later at the same venue and with the same referees."

Ahly's players and technical staff members appeared frustrated with Sikazwe's decision to postpone the match, given that they had the upper hand before the game was halted.

The visitors created a couple of goal-scoring opportunities in the first half, with Coton keeper parrying two close-range headers from Mohamed Abou-Treika and Abdallah El-Said.

With Ahly having the lion's share of representatives in Egypt's squad, the match's delay may affect the Pharaohs' preparations for the crucial World Cup qualifying playoff against Ghana in Kumasi on 15 October.

Ahly's Egyptian internationals were due to link up with the national team on Sunday.

The Red Devils will host Coton Sport in the second leg on 20 October.

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Former Nigeria coach says Ghana must score three goals against Egypt




04/10/2013





Samson Siasia believes only a 3-0 first-leg win for Ghana over Egypt will see them qualify for next year’s World Cup finals in Brazil

Ghana should defeat Egypt at least 3-0 in the first leg of their World Cup qualifying playoff if they are to reach next year’s finals in Brazil, former Nigeria coach Samson Siasia said on Friday.

The Black Stars host Egypt in the first leg on 15 October in Kumasi. The second leg will take place in Cairo on 19 November.

“If you have a 3-0 cushion win at home, it is going to make it easier,” Siasia, who is best known for leading Nigeria’s U-23 side to the 2008 Olympic Games final in Beijing, told Ghanaian radio Nhyira FM.

“It is also important that you don’t concede because you know how it is like going to Egypt. You should try as much as possible to score as many as you can and ensure you don’t concede.

“Because once you concede, trust me the Egyptians will score at their home to get to the World Cup.”

Egypt had the upper hand in their last competitive meeting with Ghana, beating them 1-0 in the 2010 African Cup of Nations final in Angola in a cagey affair that yielded few goal scoring opportunities.

The Pharaohs are eyeing their first World Cup appearance since 1990, while Ghana are seeking to reach the tournament for the third consecutive time, having reached the quarter finals in their last appearance in 2010.

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Ronaldo's double leads Real Madrid to 4-0 victory over Copenhagen




Oct 2, 2013






Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice with his head and Angel Di Maria also grabbed a double as Real Madrid maintained their winning start in Champions League Group B with a thumping 4-0 victory over FC Copenhagen on Wednesday.


Portugal forward Ronaldo followed up his hat-trick in the opening 6-1 drubbing of Galatasaray with another sparkling display and Di Maria also turned in a fine performance in the absence of injured world record signing Gareth Bale.

Ronaldo's first goal came in the 21st minute when goalkeeper Johan Wiland failed to deal with Marcelo's floated cross and he nodded in from a tight angle.

Copenhagen's resistance was effectively ended when Ronaldo powered home a Di Maria centre in the 65th minute.

The Argentine winger netted a fine curling effort six minutes later and another in the first minute of stoppage time as Real secured a maximum six points from their first two matches.

Copenhagen have one point along with Galatasaray who drew 2-2 at Juventus (two points) on Wednesday.

"I am very pleased, we played a great match," Di Maria told Canal Plus television. "We changed the system a bit with three players up front.

"We have to keep this up now, we know that all the matches will be tough."

With their fans providing impressive encouragement high up in Real's giant arena, Copenhagen made a bright start to their first meeting with the nine-times European champions.

However, Real quickly asserted themselves and Karim Benzema headed narrowly wide from Marcelo's left-wing cross in the sixth minute.

Just as the home supporters were starting to grow restless, Ronaldo struck his first of the night.

Real centre back Pepe then needed treatment to a head wound after clashing with Daniel Braaten before Copenhagen went close to an equaliser from a corner four minutes before the break.

Nicolai Jorgensen beat keeper Iker Casillas to the ball and his header bounced down off the crossbar before appearing to strike the hand of Luka Modric on the line.

The Croatia midfielder was able to clear the danger but there were whistles of discontent from the home fans as the players trooped off at halftime.

Ronaldo settled any nerves in the stands with his second 20 minutes into the second half, his 55th goal on his 94th appearance in Europe's elite club competition and his 26th in his last 21 outings.

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Bayern Munich outclass Manchester City 3-1 in Champions League




Oct 2, 2013






Bayern Munich thumped hosts Manchester City 3-1 in their Champions League Group D encounter on Wednesday as the holders taught the English side they still have a lot to learn if they are to achieve continental success.


Pep Guardiola's side got off to the perfect start with Franck Ribery's seventh-minute opener from a straightforward long-range shot that City keeper Joe Hart inexplicably failed to keep out and the German champions never looked back.

Thomas Mueller rounded Hart to double their lead 11 minutes into the second half, while Arjen Robben beat the floundering England keeper at his near post for the third on the hour.

City substitute Alvaro Negredo pulled one back for the hosts in the 80th minute and Bayern's Jerome Boateng was shown a red card four minutes from time, with David Silva hitting the bar from the resulting free kick but it was too little too late as Bayern took charge of Group D with a maximum six points from two games.

City had hoped to replicate the exciting performance they turned in to thrash Premier League champions Manchester United last month but instead it was Bayern who controlled possession, strung together the intricate passes and threatened the most.

Ribery's early goal set the tone after Rafinha picked out the Frenchman on the left and he was given space to shoot from 25 metres out with a low effort that Hart, diving to his right, should have kept out.

The England keeper was left berating himself and slapping himself in the face as the home fans were silenced, mustering the occasional sarcastic clap when the ruffled Hart did manage to hold a shot.

Bayern wasted a golden opportunity to stretch their lead after half an hour when an unmarked Thomas Mueller did not quite get to a Robben pass across the goal that would have made for an easy tap-in.

Frustration mounted for City with Jesus Navas one of the worst offenders in losing possession and their only real positive going into the break was that they had conceded just once.

That soon changed when Dante sent a tentative long ball forward and Mueller lost City defender Gael Clichy all too easily and rounded Hart to net in the 56th minute.

City, who invested heavily in attacking players in the close season, had their defensive frailties once again exposed four minutes later when Fernandinho was dispossessed near the halfway line by Mueller, allowing Bayern to break quickly.

Mueller found Robben whose jinking run made a mockery of the City defence and the Dutchman's strike at the near post again found Hart lacking.

City managed an 80th-minute consolation goal through Negredo but while the left-footed strike itself was classy, the hosts' overall performance was anything but.

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Second-string Egypt beat Uganda in Ghana warm-up 



Sept 30, 2013




A depleted Egypt team defeated Uganda 2-0 on Monday in their final warm-up game ahead of a crucial face-off with Ghana in the World Cup qualifiers playoffs.


Coach Bob Bradley had to make do without the team's core roster, as 11 players have rejoined Ahly in order to play Coton Sport in the African Champions League, and the 10 foreign-based players have not yet joined camp.

The technical staff was hoping to hold the preparatory game earlier in order to test the team, but Sierra Leon withdrew from the scheduled game on 28 September due to security concerns, leaving Uganda as the only option.

Ahmed Eid broke the deadlock after seven minutes as he netted home from close range with a set up by Ahmed Hamoudy.

In the 68th minute, Hazem Emam was sent clear to score with a back heel from inside the box after a quick exchange of passes with winger Mahmoud Abdel-Razek "Shikabala."

However, the victory was not reassuring in terms of display.  The hosts were threatened many times throughout the game and failed to maintain a dominant hold.

On the bright side, Bradley was able to give playing time to some important players otherwise taking the bench, including Ahmed Eid, Shikabala, Ahmed Said "Okka," and Hosni Abd-Rabou, back from a lengthy injury.

The players will get a couple of days to rest before starting the final preparation phase next Sunday, ahead of the Ghana clash set to be played in Kumasi on 15 October.

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Moyes needs response after worst United start in 24 years







Sept 28, 2013









The United manager, who stepped into the shoes of the club's most successful servant in the close-season, put a brave face on their third loss in their opening six league games but must now rebuild morale on the back of their worst start in 24 years.

"You're always going to have bad results in football, it is how you deal with them," he told the BBC after the shock 2-1 defeat at Old Trafford.

"We will move on and look forward to the next one. There are lots of games here and you get ready for the next one. I'm concerned after the game but only because we didn't play well. We can put it right."

While Moyes can rightly play down talk of a crisis, he will be aware that the boos heard around the stadium at the final whistle were a rare occurrence under his predecessor.

Moyes was hand picked by Ferguson to assume the reins and Saturday's defeat comes on the back of media reports in Spain that Jose Mourinho was devastated to be overlooked for the job.

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Real Madrid's Ronaldo praises Ancelotti despite loss




Sept 28, 2013






Real Madrid striker Cristiano Ronaldo revealed that he and his teammates did their best during the 1-0 loss to Atletico Madrid in the 7th matchday of the Spain La Liga on Saturday, believing coach Carlo Ancelotti did a great job.


"When things go wrong it is easy to lift your arms and blame teammates, but that's not what I saw on the field," Ronaldo was quoted as saying on Real Madrid official website after the loss to Atletico Madrid.

"We have to keep working and be united," he added.

The 28-year-old striker praised the Royal club's new coach Carlo Ancelotti throughout the game.  

"The coach is doing a great job, he is one of the best coaches I've had in my career and we are very happy with him," Ronaldo said.

"The players are to blame and we have to hold our heads up. We don’t need to make a big drama out of it, we have to keep working hard because we have lots of things to win this year,"

The Portuguese star asked the team's players to be united as they lots of things to win this year.  

"Maybe we are not on top form but we are not doing badly. Perhaps we have things to change. We have to keep working calmly,"

"There are new players and new tactics but we don’t need to make a big drama about it, we have to be united,"

Meanwhile, Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti asked the players to forget the loss and concentrate on the coming games.

"We have to think about fixing the problem quickly. When the ball arrives up front, we do not have space to find a positive solution. Against well-organised defences, if you play slow, it is harder," Ancelotti said.

Real Madrid are third in the Spain La Liga teams' table with 16 points after seven games as they drew with Villarreal before Saturday's 1-0 loss to rivals Atletico Madrid.

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Egypt's Zamalek record 4-1 consolation win in Champions League





Sept 22, 2013






Zamalek claim a comprehensive 4-1 victory over Congo's AC Leopards in the African Champions League as both sides wave goodbye to the competition

Egypt's Zamalek had been already eliminated from the African Champions League but they still secured a consolation victory in their last group-stage game after coming from behind to crush Congo's AC Leopards 4-1 on Sunday.

Leopards took the lead in the Red Sea resort of El-Gouna when Rudy Bhebey-Ndey sent a delicate lob over Zamalek keeper Abdel-Wahed El-Sayed from a tight angle after 25 minutes.

But Zamalek, who incurred the wrath of their supporters with a series of disappointing results as they extended their trophy-less run to five years, roared back in style.

Playmaker Mohamed Ibrahim equalized eight minutes later with a simple tap-in after Ahmed Tawfik squared the ball for him following a neatly-worked counter attack.

Winger Mahmoud Abdel-Razek 'Shikabala' put the hosts in front on the stroke of halftime following a fine individual effort and towering striker Ahmed Gaafar added the third with a powerful header in the 58th minute.

Gaafar notched his second of the night seven minutes later to complete the rout and give Zamalek their second win in six games.

Zamalek and Leopards finished level on seven points, one behind South Africa's Orlando Pirates and four adrift of leaders Ahly, who both qualified for the semis.

The White Knights won the last of their five Champions League titles in 2002.

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Already-qualified Ahly finish as group leaders in Champions League








Sept 22, 2013




Egypt's Ahly hold Orlando Pirates to a goalless draw in South Africa to advance to the Champions League semis as Group A leaders

Title holders Ahly of Egypt, who had already qualified for the African Champions League semis, went through as Group A winners after playing out a 0-0 draw at South Africa's Orlando Pirates, who joined them in the last four.


Ahly failed to avenge the 3-0 home defeat they suffered at the hands of Pirates last month but still managed to get the job done, avoiding a tricky semi-final tie against Tunisia's Esperance whom they defeated in last year's final to win a record-extending seventh Champions League title.

The Red Devils finished their group stage campaign with 11 points, three ahead of Pirates. Zamalek, Ahly's Cairo rivals, crushed Congo's AC Leopards 4-1 as both sides finished with seven points each.

Ahly will face Cameroon's Coton Sport, whom they defeated in the 2008 final, in the Champions League semifinal.

Chances were few and far between in an evenly-balanced tie in Johannesburg.

Ahly created a couple of goalscoring chances, with striker Ahmed Abdel-Zaher heading just over the bar in the first half and winger Walid Soliman sending a half-volley just wide with the goal at his mercy after the break.

The visitors also had to thank in-form goalkeeper Sherif Ekramy for producing two superb saves to prevent his side from falling behind, including blocking a point-blank header from Daine Klate in the dying minutes.

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Egypt’s Salah scores at Stamford Bridge again as Basel stun Chelsea





Sept 18, 2013





Jose Mourinho's dreams of winning the Champions League with Chelsea suffered an early setback on Wednesday when the Londoners fell to a shock 2-1 home defeat by Swiss champions Basel in their opening Group E match.


Chelsea, beaten in the Premier League by Everton on Saturday, looked short of ideas all night in a stuttering display, though they led 1-0 following a neat finish by Oscar just before halftime.

The Brazilian hit the bar soon after the restart as Chelsea briefly turned on the style but they were never able to take complete control and Mohamed Salah equalised in the 71st minute.

Salah also scored against Chelsea in last season's Europa League semi-final, beating Chelsea keeper Petr Cech with a close-range shot after ghosting behind Branislav Ivanovic

Basel, beaten by Chelsea in the Europa League semi-finals last season, grew in confidence and scored again 10 minutes later when captain and centre forward Marco Streller cleverly glanced in a near-post header from a corner.

"I'm not in shock," Mourinho told Sky Sports after Chelsea's first home defeat in the Champions League group stage in 30 matches. "Sometimes you win sometimes you lose.

"I'm not happy of course. We have taken a step back in qualification but we have to assume responsibility. We have five games left to finish in the top two.

"Basel played very well. We had a lot of the ball but we couldn't create many chances. Emotionally this is not a mature team and when you are in a difficult position it was not enough."

Chelsea gave a debut to 30 million-pound ($47.9 million)signing Willian and a first home start for 20-year-old Marco Van Ginkel but they were pedestrian and disjointed for most of the first half.

A neat pass by the ever-aware Lampard enabled Oscar to give them a flattering halftime lead and their formidable home record in the competition looked safe.

Basel, who took four points off Manchester United in the Champions League in the 2011-12 season, were always in the game and it was no real surprise when they levelled after Salah played a nice one-two with Streller and curled in a confident low shot.

They went close again soon after through Streller but Chelsea failed to heed the warning and the big forward got in front of Gary Cahill to head the winner nine minutes from the end.

With Schalke 04 and Steaua Bucharest making up the group the defeat should not necessarily be terminal for Chelsea, who failed to get out of their group last year, but it was not the start Mourinho had planned when he returned to the club from Real Madrid three months ago.

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UEFA Champions League group stage fixtures & results (1st matchday)
Wednesday 18thSeptember

Group G
Austria Vienna 0-1 FC Porto
Scorers: Gonzalez 55

Atletico Madrid 3-1 Zenit
Scorers: Miranda 40, Turan 64, Baptistao 80/ Hulk 58

Group H
AC Milan 2-0 Celtic
Scorers: Zapata 82, Muntari 86 

Barcelona 4-0 Ajax
Scorers: Messi 22, 55, 75, Pique 69

Group E
Chelsea 1-2 Basel
Scorers: Oscar 45/ Salah 71, Streller 81

Schalke 3-0 SteauaBucuresti
Scorers: Uchida 67, Boateng 78, Draxler 85 

Group F
Marseille 1-2 Arsenal
Scorers: Ayew 90 (pen)/ Walcott 65, Ramsey 84

Napoli 2-1 Borussia Dortmund
Scorers: Higuain 29, Insigne 67/ Zuniga 87 (O.G)

Tuesday 17th September

Group A
Real Sociedad 0-2 Shakhtar Donetsk
Scorers: Teixeira 65, 87

Manchester United 4-2 Bayern Leverkusen
Scorers: Rooney 22, 70, Van Persie 59, Valencia 79/ Rolfes 54, Toprak 88

Group B
FC Cop'hagen 1-1  Juventus
Scorers: Jorgensen 14/ Quagliarella 54

Galatasaray 1-6 Real Madrid
Scorers: Bulut 84/ Isco 33, Benzema 54, 81, Ronaldo 63, 66, 90

Group C
Olympiakos 1-4 Paris Saint Germain
Scorers: Weiss 25/ Cavani 19, Motta 68, 73, Marquinhos 86

Benfica 2-0 Anderlecht
Scorers: Djuricic 4, Luisao 30

Group D
Bayern Munich 3-0 CSKA Moscow
Scorers: Alaba 4, Mandzukic 41, Robben 68

Plzen 0-3 Manchester City
Scorers: Dzeko 48, Toure 53, Aguero 58

African World Cup qualifiers playoff draw

'Ghana is tough but we are ready': Egypt coach Bradley




Sept 16, 2013





Nigeria seem the most fortunate having been paired with minows Ethiopia who have never reached the World Cup finals.


The Algerians have to expect a tough challenge from Burkina Faso who made a surprising run during the last Nations Cup after reaching the final of the competition.

Relief as Egypt and Algeria have been split apart to avoid any more tensions.

First teams play home first in 11-15 October and the return leg will be played in 15-19 November.

BURKINA FASO VS ALGERIA

GHANA VS EGYPT

TUNISIA VS CAMEROON

ETHIOPIA VS NIGERIA

IVORY COAST VS SENEGAL

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Ahly 4-2 Zamalek (CAF Champions League)






Sept 15, 2013







Red Devils bring everything to the table to cinch win against Zamalek, guaranteeing qualification to next round of continental campaign

Ahly coach Youssef hailed his players' concentration as a key factor behind the team's 4-2 win over rivals Zamalek on Sunday.

Title holders Ahly sealed their qualification for the African Champions League semis after heaping more misery on Cairo rivals Zamalek, who waved goodbye to the competition after another dismal campaign.

"Concentration was a key element in our success today, as we started our preparatory camp earlier last week," Youssef said in a press conference after the match.

"We were fully concentrated on winning because we wanted to avoid an uncertain future, especially considering that the final group stage round will be against Orlando Pirates in South Africa.

"I asked my players to balance between playing quietly while also dominating the match by putting pressure on our opponents, and that helped us a lot with the win.

"We depended on the counter attacks in the second half, especially as Zamalek players relied on attacking football to recover.

"I am really happy with the win, which will ease our mission to reach the next round," the Cairo giants coach concluded.

Ahly are on top of Group A with 10 points, three ahead of South Africa's Orlando Pirates and Congo's AC Leopards. Zamalek, who extended their winless Cairo derby run to16 matches, lie at the bottom with four points.

Seven-time African champions Ahly will reach the semis even if they lose to Orlando in their final qualifying game and Leopards beat Zamalek. If the three sides finish level with 10 points, the head-to-head record between the three teams will favour the Red Devils.

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Egypt maintain perfect World Cup qualifying run with 4-2 win






Sept 10, 2013







Egypt, the only team in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers to bag maximum points from their respective games, maintained their perfect run with a 4-2 victory over 10-man Guinea in their final Group G match on Tuesday.


The Pharaohs trailed to an early goal in the Red Sea resort of Gouna following a bizarre own goal from England-based defender Adam El-Abd but roared back in style to tear Guinea to shreds despite their defensive frailties.

Skipper Hossam Ghaly, back to international fold after a lengthy absence through injury, drew Egypt level with a fine goal seven minutes before the break and talismanic playmaker Mohamed Abou-Treika put them ahead after converting a second-half penalty awarded for a handball on Kamil Zayatte, who received a straight red card.

Ahly's Abou-Treika was effectively making his 100thinternational appearance, although two of those were not recognized as official games by world governing body FIFA. His official international caps now stand at 98.

Despite their numerical disadvantage, a resilient Guinea side continued to expose the gaps in Egypt's fragile backline, restoring parity in the 57th minute when Seydouba Soumah made the most of some sloppy defending from El-Abd to notch home.

However, Basel winger Mohamed Salah continued his blistering run after scoring Egypt's third on 83 minutes and second-half substitute Amr Zaki, a forgotten striker who made his last international appearance in November last year, put the icing on the cake four minutes later.

Egypt, who had already qualified for the final phase before facing Guinea, collected maximum 18 points from six matches, signaling their intent to end a lengthy World Cup absence, having last qualified for the football's most prestigious event in 1990.

The Pharaohs will learn their fate when the draw for the final two-legged encounters takes place on 16 September in Cairo.

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Ahly beat Leopards again to take giant stride towards semis





31/8/2013




Title holders Ahly took a giant stride towards securing a place in the African Champions League semis after two goals either side of the interval gave them a 2-1 home win over Congo’s AC Leopards on Saturday.


Abdallah El-Saied opened the scoring eight minutes before the break and Walid Soliman doubled the lead in the second half with a sublime curler as Ahly grabbed their second consecutive Group A win after beating Leopards 1-0 in Congo earlier this month.

Leopards narrowed the gap through a 84th-minute goal from Sidoine Beaullia but it proved to be merely a consolation as Ahly held on for a precious win.

The Red Devils, who are chasing a record-extending eighth Champions League triumph, are second in the group with seven points, three clear of Leopards with two matches remaining.

Leaders Orlando Pirates of South Africa, who also have seven points, take on Ahly’s compatriots Zamalek (one point) in the other group game on Sunday.

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Egypt calls up 9 foreign-based players for Guinea clash




27/8/2013



Bob Bradley has called up 9 foreign-based players for a training camp before Egypt's World Cup qualifier against Guinea on 10 September.


The squad witnessed a return for striker Amr Zaki, who is currently playing for Kuwaiti side Al-Salmiya SC after a long spell as a free agent.

Former Zamalek and Wigan striker Zaki, who was released by Turkish side Elazigspor last January, was not included in recent squads because he had not played with a club since February.

Zaki made his debut for Egypt's senior team in 2004, guiding them to victory in the African Nations Cup in 2006 and 2008.

Under the helm of American coach Bob Bradley, Egypt will start a closed camp on 1 September to prepare for the Guinea encounter.

The 9 foreign-based players:

Ahmed Elmohamady (Hull City-England)

Adam El-Abd (Brighton-England)

Mohamed Salah (Basel – Switzerland)

Mohamed El-Neny (Basel - Switzerland)

Mahmoud Abdel-Moneim "Kahraba" (Luzern - Switzerland)

Hossam Ghaly (Lierse – Belgium)

Ahmed Hassan "Koka" (Rio Ave FC - Portugal)

Amr Zaki (Al-Salmiya SC - Kuwait)

Ibrahim Salah (Al-Oroba – Saudi Arabia)

The Pharaohs - who topped Group G and secured their place in the final qualifying round of the African qualifiers for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil - are scheduled to play their last round against Guinea on 10 September.

The holders of three successive African Cup of Nations Cups, 2006 and 2008 and 2010, Egypt are bidding for their first qualification ticket to the most prestigious tournament since 1990.

The African draw for the final round, featuring the 10 group winners, will be made on 16 September in Cairo.

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Bale Real Madrid shirts for sale as record deal nears






23/8/2013





Real Madrid put shirts bearing the name of Wales winger Gareth Bale up for sale on Thursday, media reported, as a world record deal for the Tottenham player appeared to enter its closing stages.


Negotiations between the Spanish giants and Bale's current club Tottenham Hotspur over a potential record move are believed to be in advanced stages, but the 24-year-old has not yet made the move to the Bernabeu.

Leading Madrid sports dailies Marca and As published online screen grabs from the shop section of Real's website, listing Bale as the team's number 11 alongside pictures of the strips for sale.

The gaffe was soon spotted, though, and the shop section of the site was inaccessible later in the evening.

Newspaper As said the online shop is operated by sports brand Adidas and not by the club itself.

Reports have been circulating for weeks that Bale will move to the nine-time European champions for a fee that could eclipse the £80 million ($123.6 million, 93.2 million euros) Madrid paidManchester United for Cristiano Ronaldo in 2009.

Spanish media said Thursday an announcement on Bale's signing may come within hours.

Last year Real listed Croatian Luka Modric as a player on their site before signing him, also from Spurs. The club blamed hackers for that mistake.

Spurs boss Andre Villas-Boas refused again to be drawn into speculation over Bale's future.

"I am not able to comment on anything, that has been my tone since the start of the season and I will not change that," said Villas-Boas after his team's 5-0 win over Dinamo Tbilisi in the Europa League on Thursday.

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Egypt’s Ahly secure vital Champions League win in Congo 



17/8/2013



A first-half goal from Walid Soliman gave Ahly a vital 1-0 win at Congo’s AC Leopards on Saturday as the title holders atoned for a lackluster start to their African Champions League group-stage campaign.


Soliman notched what proved to be the winner four minutes before the break in a dull Group A encounter played on a poor pitch in Dolisie.

The victory revived Ahly’s chances of booking a semi-final berth as they moved level on four points with Leopards, having collected a solitary point from their opening two games.

South Africa’s Orlando Pirates, who also have four points, take on Ahly’s Egyptian rivals Zamalek (one point) in the other group game later in the day.

Ahly were on the back foot for the much of a cagey first half, with Leopards dominating possession and keeping opposing defenders on their toes.

However, Ahly’s backline remained tight, restricting Leopards to some half-chances that included a powerful shot blocked by keeper Sherif Ekramy after 18 minutes.

The Red Devils scored against the run of play when a neatly-worked counter attack saw Abou-Treika release Walid Soliman with a deft through pass on 41 minutes.

The speedy winger outpaced his marker to send a delicate first-time shot past the advancing keeper and into the net.

Leopards, helped by lively forward Junior Mouzita, piled on pressure in the second half and squandered a couple of goal-scoring chances as Ahly held firm to claim all three points.

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Ahly's manager Mohamed Youssef

Orlando Pirates trash Al Ahly 3-0 | CAF Champions League






8/4/2013






Al Ahly lost to South Africa’s Orlando Pirates in CAF Champions League group stage in the Red Sea resort of El-Gouna on Sunday with a massive defeat 3-0.


Ahly manager Mohamed Youssef expressed his displeasure concerning Ahly's 3-0 defeat against Orlando Pirates of South Africa on Sunday, added the team played under very difficult circumstances.


The defending champions conceded their heaviest home defeat in the African Champions League after slumping to a stunning 3-0 loss to South Africa’s Orlando Pirates in the Red Sea resort of El-Gouna.

"We suffered a heavy defeat but we played the game under very difficult circumstances," Youssef told Ahram Sports after Sunday's game. "The players played while fasting in a very heat atmosphere that's why they appeared out of form."

Ahly players were forced to play while fasting, as it is the Muslim month of Ramadan, on Sunday afternoon in Gouna stadium due to the lack of floodlights after the Egyptian security turned down Ahly's request to have their Champions’ League group match in Cairo or Alexandria.

Despite Sunday's defeat, Ahly's coach stressed that his side still has a chance to qualify for the competition's semis. He vowed to not repeat the same mistakes made against the Orlando Pirates ahead of their match against the AC Leopards, set to be played on 17 August in Congo.

Ahly lie now at the bottom of group A with only one point, three points behind leading South African rivals Orlando Pirates.

"We have learned a lot of lessons from Sunday's defeat, and I will do my best to avoid all mistakes against the Leopards."

"We still have a chance in the competition and we will fight to keep our chances alive."

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Barcelona coach Vilanova steps down, says president 



Barcelona chairman says coach Tito Vilnaova will step down; the appointment of a new coach would be announced early next week




Barcelona's preparations for next season were thrown off course on Friday when the Spanish champions unexpectedly announced coach Tito Vilanova was stepping down due to ill health.

At a hastily-arranged news conference attended by shell-shocked members of the first team squad, including World Player of the Year Lionel Messi, Barca president Sandro Rosell said Vilanova would be having treatment that meant he will be unable to continue in his current role.

"We are here to give you some news that I would have liked never to have had to give," said a grim-faced Rosell, adding that the club had decided to cancel Saturday's friendly against Polish side Lechia Gdansk.

"Life goes on, this is a very severe blow but Barca always comes through and this time it will be no different," Rosell said.

Vilanova, 44, has been battling throat cancer since shortly after he was promoted from assistant coach to succeed Pep Guardiola at the end of the 2011-12 season.

He had a tumour removed from his saliva glands in November 2011 before a second round of surgery a year later and his number two Jordi Roura later took charge while he relocated to New York for two months for a course of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, returning at the end of March.

Only on Tuesday, in his first news conference since the players returned from holiday, he spoke of his excitement about the new season and the prospect of seeing new signing Neymar playing alongside World Player of the Year Lionel Messi.

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Egypt climb 9 places in FIFA global rankings









Egypt have climbed nine positions to number 62 in FIFA's world football ranking for July.


The winners of a record seven African Nations Cup (CAN) trophies, once ranked in the global top ten, fell to their worst positions since the list was established in 1993 during the previous two months.

Egypt's ranking has been affected by a lack of competitive action after failing to qualify for the 2012 and 2013 African Cup of Nations, and the Port Said disaster – during which 72 Ahly fans died at a match with Masry – that lead to the postponement of the domestic league for over one year.

Under the helm of manager Bob Bradley, the Pharaohs are bidding for a spot at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. They defeated Zimbabwe 4-2, two weeks before defeating Mozambique 1-0 on 16 June.

The Pharaohs are leading Group G of the World Cup qualifiers with 15 points, five ahead of second-placed Guinea. Mozambique holds third with two points, one point ahead of fourth place Zimbabwe.

Five-times world champions Brazil leapt back into the top 10 of the FIFA rankings after winning the Confederations Cup last month.

Spain stayed top, despite losing 3-0 to Brazil in the Confederations Cup final, while Germany remained second and Colombia climbed to third.

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Egypt surrender lead to lose to Chile in U-20 World Cup opener








Egypt take an early lead but slump to a 2-1 defeat by Chile in their opening game of the U-20 World Cup in Turkey on Sunday

Egypt failed to preserve their lead to lose 2-1 to a vibrant Chile side in their opening Group E game of the U-20 World Cup in Antalya on Sunday.


Mahmoud Kahraba, Egypt's top scorer in their triumphant African Championship campaign earlier this year, gave his side the lead after 10 minutes but Nicolas Castillo brought Chile level 15 minutes later.

Manuel Bravo struck with 13 minutes remaining to condemn Egypt to an opening defeat. Chile's Cristian Cuevas received a straight red card nine minutes from time for a two-footed lunge on an opponent but they held out to claim all three points.

Providing the spark Egypt usually lack, Kahraba excelled in the roving forward role, causing constant menace to Chile's backline and repeatedly exposing the gaps in the shaky defence.

He was awarded after 10 minutes when he latched onto a defence splitting pass to send a first-time low shot past Chile's keeper Dario Melo.

The ENPPI midfielder, who was not helped by the sluggishness of lone striker Ahmed Hassan "Kouka", went close to doubling the lead seven minutes later when his low shot from the edge of the area went narrowly wide after lively midfielder Hossam Ghaly teed him up.

Chile, who had hardly threatened Egypt by then, leveled the score against the run of play on 25 minutes. A poor defensive clearance fell to Castillo, whose shot deflected off a defender and looped over keeper Mosaad Awad into the net.

Kahraba wasted another goal-scoring chance seven minutes before the break when his free header at the far post hit the side netting following a neatly-worked counter attack.

Chile laid siege to Egypt's area in a second half they totally dominated and were unlucky not to go ahead on a couple of occasions, including a close-range header by Castillo which was superbly blocked by Awad.

They were denied by some desperate defending but their pressure eventually paid dividends in the 77th minute. Pouncing on a loose ball, Manuel Bravo eluded two defenders inside the area to fire home.

Chile's Cuevas was dismissed in the 81st minute but Egypt failed to make their numerical advantage count, with their opponents maintaining the upper hand in the latter stages.

Some shy crosses from Egypt went begging, with the lack of a reliable striker taking its toll on the young Pharaohs.

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Bradley determined to defeat Mozambique









Egyptian national team manager Bob Bradley, addressing the Pharaohs, stressed the importance of the upcoming Mozambique World Cup qualifiers which will be held on 16 June.


"We have to defeat both Mozambique and Guinea if we want to have a better position in the FIFA rankings," the American coach explained to the team during a session Monday ahead of final preparations for the anticipated match.

The Pharaohs, who picked up the maximum 12 points from four games, are currently on top of Group G.

"In the world cup, FIFA classifies teams and if we get a low rank, we will be hit by powerful teams like Brazil in the group stage," Bradley added.

The Pharaohs will qualify for the final playoff with one matche to spare if they beat Mozambique in the upcoming qualifier on Sunday.

The ten group winners will advance to a two-legged playoff that will determine Africa's five representatives at next year's World Cup finals in Brazil.

"We have to win in order please millions of fans by going to the World Cup," Bradley concluded.

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Red-hot Salah scores hat-trick to put Egypt on brink of World Cup playoff






Salah produced a virtuoso display to notch a hat-trick and put Egypt on the brink of a place in the World Cup qualifying final round following a 4-2 victory over Zimbabwe in Harare on Sunday.

The Basel winger, who helped his club win the Swiss league title last week, restored a two-goal cushion for Egypt in the dying minutes, thwarting spirited attempts from the hosts to at least salvage a draw in an electrifying atmosphere at the National Stadium.

Veteran playmaker Mohamed Abou-Treika gave Egypt an early lead but Zimbabwe's Knowledge Musona, who shrugged off an injury in time to feature in the game, restored parity midway through the first half.

Salah scored the first of his three goals few minutes before the break to restore Egypt's advantage.

He was also on target in the 77th minute following a brilliant individual effort; extending the visitors' lead and marking the start of some frantic minutes that saw Zambia narrow the gap with eight minutes remaining, thanks to a goal from Billiat Khama.

But shortly after, Salah ensured Egypt would not endure some nerve-wracking minutes when he completed his hat-trick after slotting home with aplomb following a neat move involving Abou-Treika.

The Pharaohs, who collected maximum 12 points from four games, are on top of Group G. They will qualify for the final playoff with two matches to spare if second-placed Guinea, who have have four points, fail to overcome Mozambique (two points) later on Sunday.

The 10 group winners will advance to a two-legged playoffs that will determine Africa's five representatives at next year's World Cup finals in Brazil.

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Egypt held by Botswana in last warm-up for World Cup qualifiers







Egypt produce a mediocre display to settle for a 1-1 draw at home to minnows Botswana in their last friendly before facing Zimbabwe and Mozambique in two World Cup qualifying games this month

A lacklustre Egypt side were held to a 1-1 draw by Botswana in Cairo in their last warm-up for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Mozambique.

The Pharaohs fell behind after six minutes when a dreadful blunder by veteran defender Wael Gomaa allowed Jerome Ramatlhakwane to open the scoring but an impressive header by Ahmed Hegazy brought the hosts level seven minutes before the interval.

Fiorentina's central defender Hegazy was making his first appearance for Egypt since rupturing his cruciate knee ligament in December.

Egypt are on top of Group G of the World Cup qualifiers with nine points, five ahead of second-placed Guinea and seven clear of Mozambique with three matches remaining. Zimbabwe lie at the bottom with a solitary point.

The seven-time African champions could secure their place in the final round with two matches to spare if they beat Zimbabwe on Sunday and Guinea fail to overcome Mozambique.

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Egypt's Ahly celebrates the return of skipper Ghaly










Getting skipper Hossam Ghaly back onto the football field is the most important event during the team's recent trip to Sudan, says Ahly Assistant Coach Ahmed Ayoub.


For the first time in five months Ghaly returns to action as the Cairo giants beat Merreikh 2-0 in a friendly dedicated to Ahly chairman, Gamal El-Waly on Friday.

"Ghaly's return to action is the most important thing we achieved in Sudan," Ayoub said after the match.

"The technical staff was eager to test him and we hope he will be a great addition to the club and the national team in the coming period," he added.

The 31-year-old former Tottenham Hotspur, Ghaly, underwent surgery in Germany after sustaining a rupture in his anterior knee ligament during the 2-1 win over Sanfrecce Hiroshima in a Club World Cup in December.

Defending champions, Ahly, who had already secured passage to the Egyptian league's decisive phase, are currently on top of group A with 36 points.

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Bob Bradley Announced Squad For World Cup Qualifiers





Bob Bradley announces squad for World Cup qualifiersBob Bradley has announced the Pharaohs primarily squad for June’s World Cup qualifiers.
They are starting a closed camp in Air Force stadium Wednesday to finalize their preparations for the anticipated games World Cup Qualifiers games.

Ahly trio Emad Meteb, Geddo and Mohamed Naguib were all left out due to injury, while the fit-again Walid Soliman was not recalled.

Egypt visit Zimbabwe on June 9, a few days before playing a warm-up game against Botswana.

The squad:

Goalkeepers: Abdul-Wahed (Zamalek), Al-Shennawi (Zamalek), Ekrami (Ahly)

Defenders: Gomaa (Ahly), Samir (Ahly), Shedid (Ahly), Fathi (Ahly), Emam, Gaber, Fathallah, Abdul-Shafi (Zamalek), Elmohamady(Sunderland, England), Ghazal (Nacional, Portugal), Hegazi (Fiorentina).

Midfielders: Ashour (Ahly), Al-Saied (Ahly), Abou-Treika (Ahly), I. Salah (Zamalek), Nour (Zamalek), Eid (Zamalek), Al-Sulaya (Ismaili), Hamoudi (Smouha), Hamed (Smouha) Hefni (Gaish), Al-Nenni (Basel FC)

Strikers: Gaafar (Zamalek), Ibrahim (Zamalek), Mekki (Hodoud), Temsah (Dhofar, Oman), M. Salah (Basel FC)

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Luis Suarez staying at Liverpool

May 30, 2013





Luis Suarez has no plans to leave Liverpool this summer, his agent has told Sky Sports News despite reports that a deal had been struck with Real Madrid.

The striker was quoted as telling a Uruguayan radio station this week that it would be "very difficult" to turn down Real, fuelling talk of his impending exit.

Stories have also appeared in the Spanish press that Suarez had already put pen to paper setting up his departure from Anfield.

Bernabeu president Florentino Perez gave the story further credence when he admitted Suarez, along with Tottenham's Gareth Bale, was on his radar.

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One Champions League final, two winners

Bayern Munich won the all-German Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund - and that was the only conceivable outcome. Or was it? DW's Joscha Weber writes that the Wembley final had two winners.

DW's sports writer Joscha Weber
Imagine, briefly, that things had turned out differently on Saturday night. It's easy if you try.

Arjen Robben did not cap his slaloming 89th minute run through a disjointed Dortmund defense with a goal. Instead, extra time was played out without a decisive goal and the final went to penalties. Bastian Schweinsteiger was perhaps the villain again from the spot, black and yellow rejoiced, the reds played bridesmaids for a third year in four.

The psychological damage among a Bayern squad brimming with confidence would have been enormous, far larger than during the "hoam" (Bavarian dialect for "heim" or "home") loss to Chelsea a year ago.

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Two German teams making history

May 25, 2013




For years Spanish football teams have been recognized as the best in the world.




But the magic is threatening to dissipate, with the recent defeats of Real Madrid and Barcelona at the hands of Germany's top two Bundesliga teams.

Bayern and Dortmund in their current form can hardly be beaten - just like the Spanish sides were almost unbeatable in the past.

There are clear signs that the times are changing in European club football.

And some pundits even go a step further and predict that the German national team is now ready to take the crown from Spain, the current holder of the World Cup and the European Championship titles.

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David Beckham to retire from football after career spanning more than 20 years

May 17, 2013





David Beckham has announced he will retire from football at the end of the season.



The former England captain, who turned 38 earlier this month, will quit at the top days after helping Paris St Germain to their first French championship in 19 years.

That made him the first Englishman to win titles in four different countries, and PSG were keen to hold on to the midfielder beyond the end of his short-term contract.


His final appearance is likely to come for PSG away at Lorient on May 26.

He said: "I'm thankful to PSG for giving me the opportunity to continue but I feel now is the right time to finish my career, playing at the highest level.

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Transfer News: Premier League giants join hunt for African wonder-kid Ramy Rabia

May 17, 2013



Chelsea and Manchester United have joined the chase for Egyptian wonder-kid Ramy Rabia, Sky Sports understands.




The 20-year-old centre-half has emerged as one of the hottest properties in Africa.

The Al Ahly stopper made his club debut aged just 17 and he already has five full caps for Egypt.

Rabia is set to captain Egypt at the Under-20 World Cup in Turkey next month, and a host of clubs are ready to continue monitoring him.

Borussia Dortmund, Lille and Schalke are all known to be keeping tabs on him but now Chelsea and United have joined the list of suitors.

Rabia is believed to favour a move to England, and has recently signed with leading agents SEM.

An SEM spokesman confirmed: "A number of clubs have expressed an interest, but at the moment Ramy is looking forward to the Under-20 World Cup."

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Manchester City dismiss coach Roberto Mancini after trophy-less season

May 13, 2013




Manchester City sacked manager Roberto Mancini on Monday after the Italian's future had been in doubt for several months following his team's feeble defense of the Premier League title.


Manchester United regained the title last month with four games to spare and City were then beaten 1-0 by Wigan Athletic in last Saturday's FA Cup final.

"It is with regret that Manchester City Football Club announces that Roberto Mancini has been relieved of his duties as Manchester City Manager," the club said in a statement.

"This has been a difficult decision for the owner, Chairman and Board to make and it is the outcome of a planned end of season review process that has been brought forward in light of recent speculation and out of respect for Roberto and his extensive contributions to the Football Club."

Media speculation has been rife that Malaga coach Manuel Pellegrini is being lined up as a replacement but earlier on Monday the Chilean denied he had spoken with City and said no agreement had been reached.

Assistant manager Brian Kidd will be in charge for City's remaining two games of the season and the post-season tour to the United States.

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Ahly survive El-Hodoud scare to reach Egyptian league final round

12/5/2013



A late goal gives Ahly a narrow 2-1 victory over Haras El-Hodoud and a place in the Egyptian Premier League final round on Sunday.


Defending champions Ahly have secured their place in the Egyptian Premier League final round with four games to spare in Group A after claiming a late 2-1 win over Haras El-Hodoud on Sunday.


El-Hodoud almost put Ahly's progress to the decisive phase on hold when striker Sherif Ashraf headed home following a corner on 86 minutes to cancel out Walid Soliman's early penalty for the Red Devils.

But youngster Ahmed Nabil "Manga", who has become a regular first-team player lately due to a spate of injuries, cut short El-Hodoud's celebrations with another header two minutes from time to give Ahly their seventh successive win.

Ahly, who avenged their 3-0 defeat by El-Hodoud in February and gave rookie coach Mohamed Youssef his second victory from as many games after he took charge of the team following the resignation of Hossam El-Badry, are on top of their group with 30 points, gaining an unassailable 13-minut lead over third-placed Smouha with four matches remaining.

The top two in Groups A and B will qualify for the final round, where a mini-league with only home fixtures will be held to determine the champion.

Ahly were awarded a penalty after 11 minutes when El-Hodoud left-back Islam Ramadan appeared to have handled the ball with a flailing arm. Television replays were inconclusive as to whether there was a handball following a cross.

Soliman calmly stroked the ball into the bottom corner to give his side an early lead but they were then outplayed by El-Hodoud, who relied on the pace and trickery of diminutive winger Ahmed Sabry.

Sabry caused constant menace to Ahly's left-back Ahmed Shedid and almost scored the equalizer on 20 minutes when he broke clear but his shot was saved by advancing keeper Sherif Ekramy.

Chances were few and far between in a dull second half but Ahly had a chance to double their advantage five minutes after the restart when winger Ahmed Shokry headed just over the bar after El-Hodoud keeper mis-timed his jump.

El-Hodoud's Ashraf breathed life into the lackluster affair when he was found unmarked by a corner to send a free header past Ekramy with four minutes remaining.

However, the army club's celebrations were short-lived after Manga stooped at the near post to head home a right-wing cross.

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Cisse's late header in Ethiopia lifts Zamalek to Champions League group stage

May 5, 2013



Abdoulaye Cisse heads home with two minutes remaining as Zamalek secure passage to the African Champions League group stage in thrilling fashion following a 3-3 aggregate draw



In-form striker Abdoulaye Cisse headed home at the death to lift Egypt's Zamalek to the African Champions League group stage on the away goal rule following a 2-2 draw at Ethiopia's Saint George on Saturday.


The Burkinabe put the visitors in front after two minutes but St. George's Shimelese Bekele levelled the aggregate score on the quarter hour mark.

St. George were on course to cause an upset and eliminate the five-time African Champions after Isaac Isinde gave them the lead on the stroke of halftime but Cisse came to Zamalek's rescue with a close-range header two minutes from time.  

Cisse, who is enjoying a new lease of life under Brazilian coach Jorvan Vieira, got the nod ahead of Ahmed Gaafar after putting in some efficient displays lately, including scoring another late winner over Dakhleya in the Egyptian Premier League last week.

He also netted with eight minutes remaining to help Zamalek salvage a 1-1 draw at home to St. George in the first leg two weeks ago.

The Cairo club, who are topping the league's Group B with maximum 30 points from 10 games, are unbeaten in 16 matches so far this term.

Cisse silenced the raucous home crowd after ten minutes when he got ahead of his marker to meet an inswinging cross from left-back Sabri Rahil with a powerful header that went in off the underside of the bar.

Despite taking the lead, the visitors struggled to contain St. George's forwards, who often enjoyed smooth rides to the penalty area and had the upper hand in most of the aerial challenges.

Zamalek were also toothless upfront, with attacking midfielders Ahmed Hassan and Mohamed Ibrahim struggling to feed the isolated Cisse.

St. George were rewarded after 14 minuteswhen Bekele caught Zamalek's defence backline off guard to volley home from inside the area following a left-wing cross.

They could have gone ahead five minutes later but a fierce volley from an acute angle was superbly palmed away by Zamalek keeper Abdel-Wahed El-Sayed.

St. George made amends two minutes before the interval when a poor defensive clearance fell to Isinde on the edge of the area to send a half-volleypast El-Sayed.

Zamalek threw everything forward in the second half and coach Jorvan Vieira tried to beef up his attack by introducing Gaafar, pacy winger Hazem Emam and playmaker Ahmed Eid.

The substitutions paid dividends as Zamalek laid siege to St. George's area and were unlucky not to score on 70 minutes when a low shot by Ahmed Hassan was denied by the woodwork after the keeper was caught out of position.

The lively Emam and Eid combined to set up Cisse for the decisive goal with two minutes remaining.

Eid released Emam with a deft ball down the right and he skipped past his marker to whip in a cross for Cisse to head home and stun the home crowd, who were earlier widely celebrating a possible upset.

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Ahly claim narrow win over Bizertin to go through in Champions League

May 5, 2013





Mohamed Barakat scores a goal and create another to help holders Ahly to a 2-1victory over Tunisia's Bizertin that lifts them to the African Champions League group stage





Ahly continued their bid for a second successive African Champions League triumph after a 2-1 home win over Tunisia's Bizertin lifted them to the competition's group stage on Sunday.


Veteran midfielder Mohamed Barakat converted a penalty early in the second half and set up striker Emad Meteb for the second as Ahly went through 2-1 on aggregate after the first leg ended goalless in Tunisia.

Bizertin pulled one back via a penalty from Nour Hadhria five minutes past the hour mark and mounted late pressure in a bid to notch up a decisive goal but Ahly held out to book their place in the eight-team group stage.

The visitors finished with ten men after Mohamed Ali M'hadhbi was sent off one minute from time for a second bookable offence.

The match was played at Cairo's Air Defence Stadium behind closed doors after the Egyptian Football Association (EFA) imposed an indefinite crowd ban in the wake of recent fan troubles.

Ahly joined arch-rivals Zamalek in the last eight after the latter overcame Ethiopia's Saint George on the away goal rule following a 3-3 aggregate draw earlier in the day.

The quarter-final draw will be held in Cairo on Tuesday.

Unfamiliar formation

Ahly played with an unfamiliar 3-5-2 formation as coach Hossam El-Badry, whose future with the club remains uncertain, sought to make up for the absence of several defenders through injury, including Rami Rabiea and Sherif Abdel-Fadil.

The hosts made a slow start but managed to create their first chance midway through the first half when striker Ahmed Abdel-Zaher forced a superb save from Bizertin keeper Farouk Ben Mustapha with a first-time effort.

Veteran left-back Sayed Moawad was Ahly's liveliest performer in the first half, thanks to his darting runs and pinpoint crosses, many of which went begging.

El-Badry was forced to make an unscripted substitution early in the second half after defender Mohamed Naguib picked up an injury, striking another blow to an already depleted backline. He made way for winger Ahmed Shokry as Ahly restored their traditional 4-4-2 strategy.

They broke the resistance of Bizertin two minutes into the second half after Meteb was felled by defender Hamza Mathlouthi as the referee instantly pointed to the spot, sparking a furious reaction from Tunisian coach Mondher Kebair who was consequently ordered from the touchline.

Barakat stepped up to send the keeper the wrong way and put Ahly in front.

He was the architect of Ahly's second goal, making a bursting run down the right before crossing for Meteb to head home at the far post on 62 minutes.

However, Ahly's gaps at the back were repeatedly exposed by Bizertin, who narrowed the gap three minutes later when they were awarded a penalty after defender Saad Samir clumsily struck the body of an opponent with his head.

Hadhria stroked the ball into the top corner of the net to give Bizertin a lifeline. The Tunisians piled on pressure and Ahly needed a goal-line clearance from defender Wael Gomaa to keep their lead intact.

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Mourinho hints at Real Madrid departure

April 30, 2013



Mourinho says that some people hate him in Spain, but in England they treat him fairly






Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho dropped another hint he was considering his future by saying he might not be with the Spanish giants next season after they lost in the Champions League semi-finals on Tuesday.


Following Real's 4-3 aggregate defeat by Borussia Dortmund, the former Chelsea manager was asked if he would remain in Madrid next term and he told ITV Sport: "Maybe not. I don't know but I want to be where people love me to be."

Real came within a whisker of pulling off a remarkable comeback after losing their semi-final first leg 4-1 away to Dortmund last week but came up just short with a 2-0 win at the Bernabeu to go out of the competition.

A third exit in succession at the last-four stage prompted further questions on Mourinho's future at Real.

The former boss of Porto and Inter Milan, who won the Champions League with both clubs, has been surrounded by rumours he might leave Madrid after this campaign with England his most likely destination despite having a contract until 2016.

"I know I am loved in England, I am loved by the fans and the media," Mourinho told a news conference.

"They treat me fairly. They give me credit when it is due and criticise when it is deserved.

"I am loved by some clubs, especially one," he added referring to Chelsea. "In Spain it is different, some people hate me, many of you in this room.

"It is a difficult decision. I like the club (Real) the president, we have a good team. I need to be honest and fair.

"We will sit down and talk at the end of the season."

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Dortmund hang on at Real Madrid to secure final berth

April 30, 2013


Borussia Dortmund survived a stirring Real Madrid fightback to book their place in the Champions League final on Tuesday when they conceded two late goals to lose 2-0 at the Bernabeu but went through 4-3 on aggregate


Real looked down and out before substitute Karim Benzema scored from close range in the 83rd minute and Sergio Ramos struck five minutes later but with the home fans going wild in the packed stadium Dortmund held on.


Jose Mourinho's Real side had missed several early chances before Dortmund settled and as the hosts committed men forward in the second half the visitors squandered several opportunities of their own before their defence was breached twice.

Dortmund, the European champions in 1997 on their only appearance in the final, will play German rivals Bayern Munich or Barcelona in the May 25 showpiece at Wembley stadium.

With Spanish King Juan Carlos watching from the VIP tribune and chants of "Yes we can!" echoing around Real's giant arena, the supporters unveiled an enormous mosaic depicting the Champions League trophy before kickoff.

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Ahly beat Smouha 2-0 to overtake ENPPI on top of Egyptian league

April 30, 2013



Striker Ahmed Abdel-Zaher scored a goal and created another as Ahly overtook ENPPI at the top of the Egyptian Premier League Group A with a 2-0 victory over Smouha on Tuesday.


Abdel-Zaher, who joined Ahly from ENPPI last January, opened the scoring in the 26th minute with a simple tap-in before crossing for striker partner Emad Meteb to ensure the victory eight minutes past the hour mark.

Ahly avenged their 1-0 loss to Smouha in February to secure a fifth successive victory and move top with 24 points, two ahead of second-placed ENPPI who played a game more.

The Red Devils are close to securing passage to the final round, where a mini-league with only home fixtures will be held between four teams to determine the champion.

Smouha lie third with 16 points, six behind ENPPI in the last final-round qualifying spot.

There were some shy attempts from both sides until Abdel-Zaher put Ahly in front after 26 minutes.

Defender Mohamed Naguib played the ball across the six-yard box for Meteb, whose close-range effort was blocked by two defenders. The ball then fell into the path of Abdel-Zaher for an easy tap-in.

Smouha, who lost veteran defender Hani Said to injury after six minutes, relied on some through passes from Egyptian international playmaker Ahmed Hammoudi but sluggish striker Mohamed Fadl, an ex-Ahly frontman, failed to make them count.

Ahly keeper Sherif Ekramy was on alert to palm away a header from his side's own defender Wael Gomaa, who was trying to clear the danger, after 33 minutes while Abdel-Zaher sent a glancing header just over the bar at the other end four minutes later.

Smouha's Ghanaian striker Ernest Papa Arko broke clear early in the second half after another defence-splitting pass from Hammoudi but Ekramy rushed out to block his shot.

Although Smouha looked the more likely to score after the interval, it was Ahly who doubled their their lead on 68 minutes.

Abdel-Zaher ran onto a pass on the left and whipped in a cross at the far post for Meteb to side-foot home.

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Zamalek to kick-off Egypt Cup bid against Tersana 

April 28, 2013



Egypt Cup draw on Sunday did not include Ahly and five other clubs who withdrew from tournament over sponsorship dispute




Zamalek will open their bid for the Egypt Cup against Tersana in the round of 32 on 21 May.

The Egyptian Football Association (EFA) held the cup draw on Sunday after six top-flight clubs withdrew from the country's second biggest tournament over a sponsorship dispute.

The six clubs to withdraw are Ahly, Haras El-Hodoud, Ittihad El-Shorta, Beni Suef Telephones, Arab Contractors and El-Dakhleya.

Ismaily will face the winner of Al-Wasta verses Markaz Badr, while Ittihad of Alexandria will play either Baladyet El-Mahallah or Kafr Saqr.

Ahly have won a record 35 cup trophies. Archrivals Zamalek have won 21. Haras El-Hodoud won in 2009 and 2010 while ENPPI snatched the trophy in 2011.

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MAN CITY OWNER SHEIKH MANSOUR CLOSE TO SEALING MLS DEAL

Major League Soccer Commissioner Don Garber hopes to announce a deal for its 20th franchise in “4 to 6 weeks.”

The Queens native alluded to a potential deal finally being ironed out with the city that could let MLS to announce its latest franchise.

The announcement will presumably be followed by the kickoff of the Uniform Land Use Review Procedure that would allow it to set up a 35,000-seat stadium in the heart of Flushing Meadows Corona Park.

“"We are deeply engaged with potential ownership groups and we're hopeful to be able to announce a 20th team within the next [four to six weeks]," Garber said.

The league has had a quiet two months after an all-out media and local advertising push to promote its proposed stadium at the current site of the Pool of Industry.

Various sources have told the Chronicle MLS has hit snags with finding an ownership group to fund the $350 million stadium; the league also has not worked out a deal regarding parking at the New York Mets’ facilities.

It left some miffed at Garber’s claim a deal could be in the ironed out soon. The city is in the midst of helping two big-ticket projects slated for Flushing Meadows Corona Park navigate ULURP: the proposed expansion of the United States Tennis Association’s National Tennis Center, and the redevelopment of Willets Point.

"We're making progress," Garber said of talks with New York City. "We continue – you've heard this for the last year – but we continue to negotiate with the City of New York and meet with local political folks and community leaders to get support for the stadium we hope to build in Flushing Meadow Park."

Manchester City owner Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan remains at the top of a shortlist of potential owners able to cover the cost of the stadium’s $350 million price tag, along with the league’s $100 million expansion fee, according to sources.

The United Arab Emirates’ deputy prime minister and high-living scion of the nation’s royal family has watched his high-priced franchise in England fall to second place this season. Sources believe Manchester City’s visit to New York City on May 25 to play a friendly match against London’s Chelsea FC would provide the perfect venue for Garber to announce a deal with the Sheikh.

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Hamdi brings Ahly back to top of Egyptian League's Group A

April 25, 2013




Red Devils claim narrow 1-0 victory against Wadi Degla on Thursday, putting them back at top of Group A of Egyptian Premier League




A well-placed header in the last seconds of the first half from Al-Sayed Hamdi gave Ahly a precious 1-0 win against Wadi Degla on Thursday, putting them back at the top of Group A of the Egyptian Premier League.

Hamdi repaid his coach's faith in him after being put back in the starting line-up for the first time in several weeks at the expense of Ahmed Abdel-Zaher, clinching for Ahly their seventh victory of the season, collecting 21 points – two ahead of second-placed Ennpi.

The Red Devils kept the same formation used against Club Bizertin in the African Champions League last Sunday with just a single change: the addition of El-Sayed Hamdi, who proved the winning card.

Ahly gained possession but failed to pose any real threat to Amir Tawfik's goal except for a few poor attempts at long range.

Wadi Degla had the first real opportunity just past the half-hour mark when rising star Amr Marei was sent clear on target, but his chip ball was brilliantly denied by keeper Sherif Ekramy.

Feeling the danger, Ahly stepped up pressure on the hosts with defender Saad Samir coming close to breaking the deadlock when he rose about the defence to meet a precise corner from Abdallah El-Said. His header, however, was confidently handled by Wadi Degla's keeper.

The opener came seconds before the break when veteran winger Mohamed Barakat curled an excellent free kick to Hamdi who sent a glancing header at the far post to give Ahly a deserved lead.

Wadi Degla failed to react after the interval as Marei faded out to leave Hani Ramzy's attack toothless. The Red Devils also failed to capitalise on their ball possession and game control.

Mohamed Youssef – standing on the touchline for suspending coach Hossam El-Badry – brought in Ahmed Shoukry, Ahmed Abdel-Zaher and Mahmoud Hassan 'Trezeguet' for Abdallah El-Said, Emad Meteb and Mohamed Barakat, in hopes of finding the missing the spark.

They helped contain their opponents attack but failed to improve the team's performance, ending the game with a narrow 1-0 win.

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Egypt's Ahly 'not in comfortable position' after draw in Tunisia

Ahly coach Hossam El-Badry says the second leg of the African Champions League round of 16 will not be easy following a goalless draw at Tunisia's Bizertin on Sunday

Ahly's goalless draw at Tunisia's Bizertin in the African Champions League is satisfying but it does not put the team in a comfortable position to reach the group stage, coach Hossam El-Badry said on Sunday.

The Red Devils, helped by some late saves from goalkeeper Sherif Ekramy, held Bizertin to a draw in a scrappy game in the first leg of the Champions League round of 16.

"A draw was one of the satisfying results I had in mind, but we are not in comfortable position yet," El-Badry said on Ahly's official website following the match, which took place before a limited number of 1,500 fans at Stade 15 Octobre.

"The second leg will not be easy … because a 0-0 draw is a double-edged sword. I hoped we would be able to score an away goal that would have made our task much easier in the return match."

Ahly, who won last year's Champions League title after beating Tunisian side Esperance in the final, are eyeing a record-extending eighth triumph in Africa's elite club competition.

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Zamalek caught cold in Cairo as Ethiopia's Saint George grab 1-1 draw

April 20,2013




Egypt's Zamalek fail to take a first-leg advantage in the African Champions League last 16 after a 1-1 draw at home to Ethiopia's Saint George on Saturday





Egypt's Zamalek are facing the prospect of early African Champions League elimination after they needed a late goal to salvage a 1-1 draw at home to Ethiopia's Saint George in the first leg of the competition's round of 16 on Saturday.


In a match played behind closed doors at Cairo's Air Defence Stadium, Saint George took a surprising lead three minutes past the hour mark when Umed Ukuri pounced on a defensive howler to fire home following a bursting run.

Burkinabe striker Abdoulaye Cisse, who was introduced in the second half, levelled the score with eight minutes remaining but the visitors survived a late onslaught to claim a valuable draw.

Five-time African champions Zamalek, who last won the Champions League in 2002, will need to win away from home or secure a high-scoring draw in a fortnight to reach the group stage and avoid a surprising elimination.

The White Knights had to do without their fans after Egyptian authorities imposed a crowd ban in the wake of recent disturbances in continental and regional games for Zamalek, Ahly and Ismaily.

Zamalek, lacking the spark of winger Mohamed Ibrahim, who started on the bench due to a back complaint, struggled to break down the resolute Saint George in the first half.

They were only restricted to some tame shots, including a left-foot effort from playmaker Ahmed Eid which went over the crossbar and a half-volley from striker Ahmed Gaafar that was blocked by the keeper from a tight angle.

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Egypt's Ismaily, ENPPI settle for 0-0 draws in Confederation Cup

April 19, 2013



The two Egyptian representatives in the African Confederation Cup held to goalless draws in the first-leg of the competition's round of 16 on Friday



Egyptian sides Ismaily and ENPPI failed to take first-leg advantages in the African Confederation Cup on Friday after being held to draws by Sudan's Ahli Shandi and South Africa's Supersport respectively.


Ismaily, who drew 0-0 in Sudan, will host Ahli Shandi in the second leg on 3 May behind closed doors after Egyptian authorities imposed an indefinite crowd ban following recent fan troubles.

ENPPI were kept at bay by Supersport United at home, wasting a penalty in stoppage time to settle for a goalless draw that will make their task difficult when they play the second leg in South Africa on 4 May.

The Confederation Cup has eluded Egyptian clubs since it was introduced in 2004 by merging the African Cup Winners' Cup and the CAF Cup in a single competition.

Elsewhere, Club Sportif Sfaxien of Tunisia defeated Congolese side Diables Noirs 3-1 in Tunisia and USM d'Alger of Algeria were held to goalless draw by Gabon's Union Sportive Bitam.

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 Goalless draw Mexico VS Peru

18/4/2013






Mexico and Peru played an annoying goalless draw on Wednesday night in San Francisco California. 








Candlestick Park the home of the San Francisco 49ers provided a great ambiance for the International Friendly game as well as the festival before the game.      

Only two chances to score thought out the 90 min plus game, one for Mexico from a soft penalty, but Reyna could not convert on the spot and it was saved by Carvallo the soled Peruvian goalkeeper. The second was a great opportunity for Peru in the 78 min when Mexican goalkeeper Talavera pushed wide Ramos' glancing header.

A great result from Peru, who defended gallantly throughout the 2nd half of the game. This outcome was all based on the poor play from Mexico, who really should have done more in this one against a weak opponent. 

One good thing out of this game for Mexico was that Pablo Barrera showed some of the same dynamism that made him such a force for El Tri before he tore his ACL.

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GAME DAY UPDATE 

MEXICO VS. PERU MATCH IN SAN FRANCISCO ON APRIL 17

SAN FRANCISCO (Tuesday, April 16, 2013) 








A game day update was announced today for the upcoming international match between Mexico and Peru on Wednesday, April 17 (8 p.m. PT) at Candlestick Park in San Francisco.

MOMENT OF SILENCE

A moment of silence will be observed by both teams and fans prior to kick-off tomorrow for the victims of the Boston Bombings.

FANS ENCOURAGED TO ARRIVE EARLY

Organizers are encouraging fans to arrive at the stadium early to avoid weekday traffic and long lines at the gates and box office.  AT&T Futbol Fiesta, the 120,000 sq. ft. interactive fan zone featuring live music, dancing and games will open at 4 PM. 

While a large crowd is expected, good seats are still available via Tickets.com or the stadium box office, which will open Wednesday at 10 am.


10 AM

Stadium Box Office opens

Candlestick Park – Bud Light Plaza

4:00 PM – 8:00 PM

PUBLIC EVENT: PRE-GAME FAN FESTIVAL: AT&T Futbol Fiesta free interactive fan zone prior to game.

Special appearances by Mexican Legends:

·            5:30 PM: Jorge Campos, presented by El Jimador

·            6:00 PM: Jared Borgetti, presented by Bud Light

·            6:00 PM: German Villa, presented by NAPA

·            6:00 PM: Ramon Ramirez, presented by Castrol

·            6:00 PM: Manuel Negrete, presented by Behr

·            6:00 PM: Luis Hernandez, presented by The Home Depot

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Alan Gordon gets caught using gay slur, apologizes

"I would like to sincerely apologize to everyone who watched tonight's match on NBC Sports Network. The language I used came during a heated moment and does not reflect my feelings toward the gay and lesbian community. I made a mistake and I accept full responsibility for my actions."




Alan Gordon did not have a very good day, and he's really only got himself to blame. Not only did the San Jose Earthquakes forward get ejected after picking up a pair of yellow cards in his team's loss to the Portland Timbers on Sunday, but he also got caught by NBC Sports Network cameras using a gay slur.

Accepting responsibility, in this case, will likely mean serving a multi-game suspension.

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MEXICO ANNOUNCES ROSTER FOR 2013 U.S. TOUR MATCH AGAINST PERU IN SAN FRANCISCO ON APRIL 17

The Mexican National Team roster features a mix of veteran and up and coming players, including Club America defender Francisco Javier Rodriguez, Atlas forward Omar Bravo and Cruz Azul goalkeeper Jose de Jesus Corona. Corona was one of the three overage players who were part of the Mexican National Team’s gold medal run in the 2012 Summer Olympics in London. The roster also includes talented young players such as Club America defender Diego Reyes, Pachuca midfielder Hector Herrera and Club America forward Raul Jimenez, all who were also gold medalists at the 2012 Olympics.
Peru manager Sergio Markarían called up a 20-man roster including several European-based standouts. Expected to join the team in San Francisco are defender Alexander Callens (Real Sociedad), Luis Advincula (Hoffenheim) and Cristian Benavente (Real Madrid), a midfielder who played in the 2013 South American Youth Championship in Argentina this past January.
Both head coaches will use this game to test their squads as they continue in their road to the 2013 FIFA World Cup. Mexico will play three CONCACAF Hexagonal World Cup qualifying round matches in June before heading to Brazil to participate in the FIFA Confederations Cup, followed by the CONCACAF Gold Cup in July, title which the nation will look to defend. Peru is currently in the thick of the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying, with six qualifying games left to play in South America this year.


MEXICO ROSTER:

Goalkeepers: Jesús Corona (Cruz Azul/MEX), Alfredo Talavera (Toluca/MEX)

Defenders: Hugo Ayala (Tigres/MEX), Israel Jiménez (Tigres/MEX), Jorge Torres Nilo (Tigres/MEX),  Francisco Rodríguez (América/MEX), Diego Reyes (América/MEX), Efraín Velarde (Pumas/MEX), Gerardo Flores (Cruz Azul/MEX)

Midfielders: Gerardo Torrado (Cruz Azul/MEX), Pablo Barrera (Cruz Azul/MEX), Luis Montes (León/MEX), Javier Cortés (Pumas/MEX), Jesús Molina (América/MEX), Héctor Herrera (Pachuca/MEX), Carlos Peña (León/MEX)

Forwards: Omar Bravo (Atlas/MEX), Rafael Márquez Lugo (Guadalajara/MEX), Ángel Reyna (Pachuca/MEX), Raúl Jiménez (América/MEX)

Head Coach: José Manuel de la Torre

PERU ROSTER

Goalkeepers: Salomón Libman (Universidad César Vallejo/PER), José Carvallo (Universitario/PER)

Defenders: Roberto Guizasola (Juan Aurich/PER), Christian Ramos (Juan Aurich/PER), Alexander Callens (Real Sociedad B/SPA), Luis Advíncula (Hoffenheim/GER), Orlando Contreras (Universidad César Vallejo/PER), Néstor Duarte (Universitario/PER), Edwin Gómez (Universitario/PER)

Midfielders: Paulo Albarracín (Alianza Lima/PER), Jair Céspedes (Juan Aurich/PER), Michael Guevara(Juan Aurich/PER), Alfredo Rojas (Juan Aurich/PER), Cristian Benavente (Real Madrid/SPA), Josepmir Ballón (San Martín), Luis García (Unión Comercio/PER), Josimar Vargas (Universitario/PER)

Forwards: Yordy Reyna (Alianza Lima/PER), Christofer Gonzales (Universitario/PER), Raúl Ruidíaz (Universitario/PER)

Head Coach: Sergio Markarían

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Champions League Semifinal Draw: Bayern vs. Barca, Dortmund vs. Real Madrid

April 12, 2013




The draw for the Champions League semifinal was made on Friday, with the two teams from Spain and two from Germany kept apart.




Bundesliga champions and last year's beaten finalists Bayern Munich will play Lionel Messi's Barcelona, with the first leg in Germany and the return at Camp Nou. 

The other tie will see 2011-12 German champions Borussia Dortmund up againstCristiano Ronaldo's Real Madrid. That one will also be seen to a conclusion in Spain.

First legs will be played on April 23 and 24. Second legs will be played on April 30 and May 1.

The draw keeps alive the possibility of a May Clasico final between Barcelona and Real Madrid at Wembley Stadium in London. An all-German final, which would speak volumes to the quality of the Bundesliga, is also a possibility.

Dortmund and Madrid have already played twice in the group stage this season, with Dortmund winning at home and drawing 2-2 at the Bernabeu.

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Ronaldo scores twice as Real Madrid reach semis

April 9, 2013









Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice as Real Madrid, aiming to become kings of Europe for the 10th time, foiled a dramatic fightback by Galatasaray on Tuesday to reach the Champions League semi-finals.



Ronaldo, top scorer in the competition, took his goal tally for the season to 11 to make sure that Jose Mourinho's side went through to the last four 5-3 on aggregate despite losing the second leg 3-2 in Istanbul.


"This match will serve as an example for us in the future," Ronaldo told Spanish broadcaster TVE. "In football you cannot just give chances away.

"They made things hard but in reality we were the ones who made things complicated for ourselves. We must make sure that we are switched on for the full 90 minutes."

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Dortmund advance to Champions League semis  for the first time in 15 years.

April 9, 2013







With the seconds ticking away on their Champions League season, Borussia Dortmund found two goals in injury time for a comeback win against Malaga to advance to the semifinals.

At the end of the regular 90 minutes, Dortmund fans were praying for a miracle: Malaga was leading Dortmund 2-1 in the second leg of the Champions League quarterfinal, and Dortmund needed not one but two goals to secure a trip to the semifinal. The end of the season seemed nigh; it was only a matter of minutes.

But the prayers of 80,000 Dortmund fans are hard to ignore, and the football gods smiled on Dortmund's Signal Iduna Park on Tuesday night. Two goals in injury time gave Dortmund a 3-2 over Malaga, sending them to the Champions League semifinal for the first time in 15 years.

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Ahly welcome back die-hard supporters in Champions League victory

April 7, 2013



With Ultras Ahlawy present in the stands for the first time in more than a year, Ahly beat Kenya's Tusker 2-0 in Alexandria to go through in the African Champions League



Ahly, welcoming back their die-hard fans for the first time in more than a year, qualified for the African Champions League round of 16 after an easy 2-0 home win over Kenya's Tusker completed a 4-1 aggregate victory on Sunday.

Two first-half goals from attacking duo Ahmed Abdel-Zaher and Emad Meteb, who scored twice in the 2-1 first-leg victory, lifted the defending champions to the last 16 as they seek to win a second consecutive title.

The highlight of an otherwise dour affair was the return of Ultras Ahlawy, a group of hardcore Ahly supporters, to the stands at Alexandria's Borg El-Arab Stadium for the first time since the February 2012 Port Said disaster.

The fans celebrated their return by displaying three Banners, a term used to describe a fan spectacle. One of them mocked Mohamed Hussein Tantawi, who was Egypt's de facto ruler during a turbulent transition to a civilian role.

Tantawi, the former head of the Supreme Council of Armed Forces (SCAF), is accused by Ultras Ahlawy o fcomplicity in the Port Said disaster. The other two tifos honoured the 72 victims of the tragedy.

Fans are banned from attending domestic matches due to security concerns. However, a limited number of supporters are usually allowed to attend Champions League games.

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Egypt's Mohamed Salah praised by Tottenham keeper after superb display

April 5, 2013




Egypt's promising winger produced a dazzling performance in Basel's 2-2 draw at Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League



Mohamed Salah's mazy runs and catchy feints left Tottenham defenders trailing in his wake and helped Basel secure a surprising 2-2 draw in London in the first leg of the Europa League quarter final on Thursday.


Basel were also close to pulling off a remarkable win, having led 2-0 in the first half, but Tottenham rallied back to keep alive their hopes of reaching the semi-final.

Although Egypt winger Salah did not get on the scoresheet, he stole the limelight with his darting runs down the flank and penetrating skills.

He had a hand in Basel's opening goal and spurned a golden opportunity to score a decisive winner when he broke clear after skipping past two challengers but blasted his shot over the bar.

"Basel set up to hit us on the counterattack and they did that really effectively, I thought their right-winger [Salah] posed us a lot of problems," Tottenham's veteran keeper Brad Friedel, 41, was quoted as saying by UEFA.com.

"In the second half he did a great job of keeping possession for the team."

Salah has been a revelation for Basel since joining from Egyptian outfit Arab Contractors last summer. His form earned him the best African Young Player of the Year award.

The 20-year-old, who has scored six goals in all competitions so far this season, said he wishes to join Bundesliga side Borussia Dortmund next season, although the club did not make any offers to sign him.

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Egypt U-20 coach praises players for African trophy win

March 31,2013


Egypt's U-20 national team coach Rabie Yassin believes that his players deserved to win the African Youth Cup after their superb performance throughout the tournament. Espeically, their victory over Ghana 5-4 on penalties following a 1-1 draw.

"I am very pleased with my boys led by captain Ramy, they have played some lovely football throughout this tournament," Yassin told the games post press conference.

"They thoroughly deserve to win the African Youth Cup," he added.

"I have been with this team for four and a half years and know them very well on and off the field,"

"So much hard work and long hours have gone into this team and it is fantastic to get the results we got." The Egypt coach said.

The 52-year-old tactician also praised the Ghanaian team, believing they are a strong team to beat.

"Ghana were worthy competitors tonight and as you saw the two sides could only be separated by penalties, which shows it was a tough game." The coach concluded.

 The Egypt team captain Rami Rabeia is happy for winning the trophy, noting his role in leading the team to the victory.

"It is such a great feeling winning the CAF U-20 championship and it was a tough game but we fought hard and everyone is pleased with this victory," Rabeia said.

In penalties, defender Rabeia wasted Egypt's first effort but matters were evened up when Awad blocked Ghana's third kick, which was taken by Adams Ahmed.

 Both sides converted the rest of their five spot kicks until the sudden death, when Egypt prevailed to lift the trophy.

"I took the first penalty because l wanted to motivate and encourage my team mates by leading by example but l missed my kick,"

"Anyways the rest of the guys were able to score and we won." The Egypt U-20 team's captain concluded.

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Egypt’s duo claim top awards in African U-20 championship

March 31, 2013




The young Pharaohs claim the lion’s share in the tournament’s awards winning the title, the best player and keeper prizes



Egypt midfielder Saleh Gomaa has been named best player of the African Youth Championship after leading the Pharaohs to the title on Saturday night.

The ENPPI international player scored two goals during the competition ironically both against Ghana. Gomaa scored the winner in their groupstage game 2-1 then he struck the opener in the final 1-1 from the spot.

He has been a major inspiration for the Pharaohs orchestrating their game throughout the five-match contest.

Keeper Mosaad Awad was named best goalie of the tournament after displaying an impressive performance in Algeria.

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Egypt win U-20 African Championship after victory over Ghana

March 30, 2013





Egypt's U-20 side reached the pinnacle of African glory for the first time since 2003, defeating heavyweights Ghana 5-4 in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw to win the African Championship for the fourth time on Saturday.


Midfielder Hossam Ghaly converted the decisive spot kick in the sudden death after Ghana's Michael Anaba rattled the crossbar as Egypt clinched the title with a 100 percent record, having won all their games. The young Pharaohs also won the title in 1981, 1991 and 2003.

The top four in the African Championship - Egypt, Ghana, Nigeria and Mali - will represent the continent at the U-20 World Cup, which will take place in Turkey in the summer. Egypt will play in Group E along with England, Chile and Iraq.

Egypt took an early lead via a fourth-minute Saleh Gomaa penalty but Jeremiah Arkorful drew Ghana level through another spot-kick four minutes later.

Both sides failed to capitalize on several goal-scoring opportunities in normal and extra time as the match went into penalties, which favoured an Egypt side who were whistled by the Algerian fans in Oran city.

Egypt were awarded a penalty after four minutes when attacking midfielder Mahmoud Abdel-Moneim "Kahraba", the team's liveliest performer, was felled by Richmond Nketiah. Gomaa stepped up to send keeper Eric Antwi the wrong way and give Egypt an early lead.

However, their celebrations were short-lived after full-back Ahmed Samir clumsily caught Moses Odjer across the face with a flying tackle, allowing Arkorful to restore parity from the spot.

Both sides had chances to go ahead in a pulsating first-half. Ghana's Arkorful was unlucky to see his curling free-kick strike the crossbar while at the other end Kahraba was denied by Antwi in a one-on-one shortly before halftime.

Ghana had the upper hand in the second half, with Egypt needing some superb saves from in-form goalkeeper Mosaad Awad, who was equally impressive in the opening victory over Ghana, to force an extra time.

Chances were few and far between in both halves of the extra time. Ghana created the best chance when Ebenezer Assifuah eluded his challenger in the area and fired an angled drive that went over the bar.

In penalties, defender Rami Rabeia wasted Egypt's first effort but matters were evened up when Awad blocked Ghana's third kick, which was taken by Adams Ahmed.

Both sides converted the rest of their five spot kicks until the sudden death, where Egypt prevailed to lift the trophy.

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Egypt U-20 beat Nigeria to reach African Championship final

March 26/2013





Egypt maintain their perfect run in U-20 African Championship as they reach the tournament's final following a 2-0 win over Nigeria in the semis on Tuesday


Egypt U-20 forward Mohamed Abdel-Moneam, better known as Kahraba, scored twice to help Egypt reach the U-20 African Championship final following with a 2-0 win over Nigeria on Tuesday.

The ENPPI forward opened the scoring one minute after the break with a close-range effort after taking advantage of a Nigerian defensive lapse.

He notched his second of the night nine minutes from time, sending a super header home to score his third goal of the tournament and ensure Egypt's win.

 The young Pharaohs will face Ghana, who defeated Mali 4-2 on penalties in the other semi-final, in Saturday's finale.

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PHOTO BY EGYPTKORA.COM

PHOTO BY EGYPTKORA.COM

PHOTO BY EGYPTKORA.COM

PHOTO BY EGYPTKORA.COM

PHOTO BY EGYPTKORA.COM

PHOTO BY EGYPTKORA.COM

PHOTO BY EGYPTKORA.COM

PHOTO BY EGYPTKORA.COM

PHOTO BY EGYPTKORA.COM

PHOTO BY EGYPTKORA.COM

PHOTO BY EGYPTKORA.COM

PHOTO BY EGYPTKORA.COM

PHOTO BY EGYPTKORA.COM

PHOTO BY EGYPTKORA.COM

PHOTO BY EGYPTKORA.COM

PHOTO BY EGYPTKORA.COM

Egypt rout Swaziland 10-0 for their third-biggest victory in history

22/3/2013




The Pharaohs end a four-match losing streak after thrashing tiny Swaziland 10-0 at Alexandria's Borg El-Arab Stadium on Friday






Egypt took their recent frustrations out on hapless Swaziland by thrashing the modest African outfit 10-0 in their last warm-up game before Tuesday's World Cup qualifier against Zimbabwe.


The Pharaohs have finally snapped a four-match losing streak that saw them drop to 75 in the FIFA monthly raking for their worst-ever position, having lost 3-0 to Ghana, 4-2 to Ivory Coast, 2-1 to Chile and 3-1 to Qatar since January.

Friday's win is their third-biggest victory ever. Egypt thumped Laos 15-0 in a friendly game in 1963, crushed South Korea 10-0 in the 1964 Olympic Games and routed Yemen 14-0 in Pan Arab Games one year later.
 
Local-based players Mohamed Ibrahim, Ahmed Hammoudi and Ahmed Gaafar - all of whom have impressed recently in the Egyptian Premier League - scored their first international goals.

Experienced midfielder Ahmed Eid, Harras El-Hodoud striker Ahmed Hassan Mekki and Basel forward Mohamed Salah scored two goals each as Egypt swept aside Swaziland, few days before taking on Zimbabwe in their third Group G game of the World Cup qualifiers.

The seven-time African champions, who are bidding to reach the World Cup for the first time since 1990, lie on top of the group with maximum six points from two games, three ahead of Guinea and five clear of Zimbabwe and Mozambique.

Only the group winners will advance to the decisive round, where they will play a two-legged tie to obtain one of the five African tickets for next year's edition in Brazil.  

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Egypt U-20 team beat rivals Algeria to qualify for World Cup

March 19, 2013




Egypt's U-20 team book a semi-final spot at the African Championship to qualify for the World Cup for the third consecutive time



A first-half goal from midfielder Rami Rabeia earned Egypt's U-20 side a 1-0 victory over bitter rivals and African Championship hosts Algeria as the young Pharaohs reached the World Cup on Tuesday.


The Ahly man headed home shortly before half-time as Egypt made it two wins out of two to top Group A with maximum six points and ensure their progress to the World Cup, which will take place in Turkey in the summer.

Egypt, who were knocked out of the World Cup at the last-16 stage in 2009 and 2011, finished with ten men after Mahmoud Hammad was sent off in a tense stoppage time for a second bookable offense.

Ghana, who beat Benin 1-0 earlier in the day, lie second in the group with three points. Algeria and Benin have one point apiece.

The semi-finalists in Groups A and B will qualify for the World Cup.

Chances were few and far between in a cautious first half where neither side was able to create genuine goal-scoring opportunities.

Algeria were roared on by a passionate crowd, who whistled Egypt's national anthem few minutes before kick-off.

However, a clinical Egypt pounced on a rare chance to score the decisive goal three minutes before the break when Rabeia powered home a header following a pinpoint cross from the left.

Algeria had the better possession in the second half but struggled to break down a resolute Egypt side. They were only restricted to some tame efforts that did not trouble the keeper.

Egypt could have also added the second in the dying minutes following two breakaway efforts but Algeria's keeper rushed out in a timely manner to thwart midfielders Ahmed Samir and Saleh Gomaa.

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Egypt vs Algeria CAF U-20 Championship 2013

March 19, 2013





Match day 3 in the ongoing Orange CAF U-20 African Championship, is serving two mouthwatering derbies in Ain Temouchent, Algeria on Tuesday. First its Benin versus Ghana a la West African hot style before it gets spicier with Egypt versus hosts  Algeria in the North African dish.

After the first group games , Tuesday sets itself up well for some entertaining encounters with Egypt on three points looking to confirm a semi-final spot and FIFA World Cup qualification with a win, while Algeria on one point will be looking to pick up points rather than drop some at this stage.


Egypt’s assistant coach, Mohamed Saad told CAF PRESS that his charges will be aiming to seal qualification to semi- and World Cup against Algeria rather than wait to do so in the third and final group match, “ The calculation here is simply this, we play to get all three points and should we do so we are through to the semis and our objective is met”.

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Egypt 2-1 Ghana  U-20 African championship Cup

March 17, 2013










Egypt recorded a 2-1 victory over Ghana as both sides kicked off their 2013 Orange CAF U-20 Championship in Ain Timouchent, Algeria on Saturday. Second half goals from substitute Mahmoud Hamad and Saleh Gomaa from the spot gave the Young Pharaohs the maximum points, while 14 year old Assifuah scored for the Black Satellites. Egypt now leads group A with 3 points, two more than Algeria and Benin who played a barren draw in the first match earlier in the day.

Egypt will take on hosts Algeria in an all North African affair on match day 2 on Tuesday, while Ghana have to beat Benin on the same day to stay in contention.

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Jose Manuel “El Chepo” de la Torre, Mexico National Team Coach visit to  San Francisco

Photo by German Alegria

Jose Manuel de la Torre, Mexico National Team Coach and Hector Gonzalez Iñarritu, Director of Mexico National Teams met with the San Francisco Media on Monday March 11 at the Intercontinental Mark Hopkins Hotel to discuss the upcoming match between Mexico vs Peru to be played at Candlestick Park on April 17.

“El Chepo” said that this game will prepare his team for the Confederations Cup to be played in Brazil and also the Gold Cup where Mexico will defend the title against the top teams from Concacaf. He will not call any players who play in Europe since it was a Non-FIFA  International football nor will will call any of the U-20 players who are going to the Word Cup to be play in Turkey.

Only players who play in the Mexican League will be on call and he expects to find the right players to face  important rivals in Brazil for the Confederations Cup and in the US for the Gold Cup, but the most important goal is to qualify for the World Cup.

De la Torre was aware also of the upcoming matches against Honduras as visitor and USA at the Azteca Stadium and told the press he expect to win both games.

Many members of the Hispanic Press where on hand as well as some Americans. 

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Bernardez Called to Honduras Duty

March 11, 2013


Earthquakes defender Victor Bernardez has been called to Honduras national team duty ahead of 2014 World Cup qualifiers against Mexico on Friday, March 22 and Panama on Tuesday, March 26. Both matches will be played in San Pedro Sula, Honduras. Bernardez, 30, has 61 career caps with Los Catrachos.

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Egypt coach promises place in World Cup despite friendly loss

March 8, 2013



Despite loss to Qatar in Thursday friendly, American tactician Bob Bradley says Egypt will qualify for 2014 World Cup in Brazil





After losing to Qatar in a Thursday friendly within the context of preparations for a 2014 World Cup qualifier against Zimbabwe, Egypt coach Bob Bradley vowed that the team would book a place in the tournament.

"We've made a lot of progress, establishing the team's mentality, trying to understand how to compete in the future," Bradley said at a post-game press conference.

"There's a belief among the players that we're going to reach the World Cup; this is something that no one can take away from us," he added.

Without the participation of Zamalek, ENPPI and Ismaily players, and in the absence of players who are currently abroad, Egypt suffered a 3-1 defeat by Qatar in Thursday's friendly in Doha.

The Pharaohs played with their second squad, since a number of leading players were absent due to other engagements, as the Thursday match was not listed on FIFA's official calendar.

Bradley was forced to introduce a handful of local players, such as Tarek Hamed, Ahmed Hamoudi (Smouha) and Hussein Hamdy (Maqassa), for whom Thursday's friendly represented their first-ever international match.

Despite the loss to Qatar, Bradley praised the performance of Ahly players Abdullah El-Said, Hossam Ashour and defender Mohamed Naguib.

"Today we saw El-Said for 90 consecutive minutes," the coach said. "We always work with Hossam Ashour in the midfield to find the right pass in attacking areas and Mohamed Naguib in defence, so I think these are three positive points."

The loss to Qatar is the fourth successive defeat for Egypt within the context of preparations for World Cup qualifiers. They also recently lost 0-3 to Ghana, 2-4 to Ivory Coast and 1-2 to Chile.    

The Pharaohs are currently preparing for their upcoming clash with Zimbabwe in a World Cup qualifier set to be played in Alexandria's Borg Al-Arab stadium on 26 March.

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Eight Ahly players to anchor Egypt football in Qatar friendly

March 6/2013



No Zamalek, Ismaily or Europe-based players called for Egypt friendly against Qatar






Egypt manager Bob Bradley announced on Thursday the 18-man-squad for Qatar friendly to be held on 7 March in the Gulf country.

No Zamalek, Ismaily or foreign-based players were listed in the squad as they were excused for having crucial league games this week.

Meanwhile, eight Ahly players were called as their team enjoys a by-week in the Egyptian Premiere League.

The match, which will bring the Egyptian Football Association (EFA) 1 million Egyptian Pounds, wasn’t approved by FIFA.

The Pharoahs, winners of seven Africa Cup of Nations, are bidding for their first World Cup finals since 1990 when they meet Zimbabwe in the African qualifiers on 26 March.

Egypt tops qualifiers Group G with six points from two games, three ahead of second-placed Guinea. Zimbabwe and Mozambique hold one point each.

The Squad:

Goalkeeper:  Sherif Ekrami (Ahly) and Al-Hani Soliman (Ittihad of Alexandria)

Defenders: Wael Goma (Ahly), Mohamed Naguib (Ahly), Rami Rabia (Ahly), Ahmed Shedid Qenawi (Ahly), Mohamed Abdel Fattah (Wadi Degla) and Mohamed Belal (Smouha)

Midfielders: Hossam Ashour (Ahly), Abdullah-El-Said (Ahly), Ahmed Usama (Wadi Degla), Tarek Hamed (Smouha), Ibrahim Abdel-Khalek (Smouha), Mohamed Hamoudy (Smouha) and Ahmed Magdy (Mahallah)

Strikers: El-Sayed Hamdy (Ahly), Hussein Hamdy (Maqassa) and Amr Marei (Wadi Degla)

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Real's Ronaldo knocks out Manchester United after Nani sees red

March 5, 2013



Former Manchester United hero Cristiano Ronaldo scored the winner against his old club to give Real Madrid a 2-1 victory at Old Trafford and a place in the Champions League quarter-finals on Tuesday



United, 1 up in the game after Real defender Sergio Ramos put through his own goal in the 48th minute and 2-1 ahead on aggregate, were sent reeling in a 10-minute spell midway through the second half as Real secured a 3-2 aggregate success.


The match changed when United winger Nani was harshly shown a red card in the 56th minute by Turkish referee Cuneyt Cakir for a clumsy but not dangerous high challenge on Real defender Alvaro Arbeloa.

Ten minutes later substitute Luka Modric, who had only been on the field for seven minutes, lashed in Real's equaliser from 20 metres and Ronaldo slid in at the far post to turn in a cross from Gonzalo Higuain to seal Real's place in the last eight.

It was a special night at Old Trafford as 39-year-old Welsh winger Ryan Giggs made his 1,000th competitive appearance and Ronaldo was warmly greeted on his first return to the ground since he left for Real in 2009.

United went close to opening the scoring after 21 minutes when Nemanja Vidic thundered a powerful downward header against Diego Lopez's left-hand post, only to see the ball rebound to Danny Welbeck.

The England forward had little time to react but shot first time straight at the keeper sitting on the line, who smothered it between his legs. TV replays, however, showed Welbeck was in an offside position and the goal would not have counted.

Both teams made chances as play flowed from one end of the pitch to the other, but United appeared to be the more settled side and went into a deserved lead, even though they were fortunate that Ramos turned Nani's cross into his own net.

Real, though, laid siege to United's goal after the hosts were reduced to 10-men and they scored twice in the last 21 minutes as Modric and Ronaldo found the net.

Although Robin Van Persie and late substitute Wayne Rooney went close, Real held out for the win to stay on course for a record-extending 10th European Cup success.

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RSL Team

SJE Team

San Jose Earthquakes' season opener

Photo by Rico Ramirez

March 3, 2013







The San Jose Earthquakes will open their 2013 MLS regular season against Real Salt Lake on Sunday, March 3 at Buck Shaw Stadium. The match kicks off at 7 p.m. PT

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Spurs hold off Arsenal in derby

March 3, 2013










Tottenham won a pulsating north London derby to go third in the league and seven points ahead of Arsenal.

Gareth Bale and Aaron Lennon slotted in two carbon copy goals in three first-half minutes after defence-splitting passes to put Spurs in control.

It was Bale's ninth goal in seven games but Per Mertesacker's header went in off the Welshman to give Arsenal hope.

Bale skied a far-post chance before Arsenal's Aaron Ramsey almost equalised but drove a shot just wide.

Entertainment and goals are almost guaranteed between these two sides and there was no shortage of either in an enthralling contest at White Hart Lane.

Tottenham's failure to take a number of glorious chances to wrap up the game as Arsenal desperately chased an equaliser only added to the drama.

But the home side held on after enduring six minutes of added time to go 12 games unbeaten and, in the process, leapfrog Chelsea as well as move two points behind second-placed Manchester City.

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Real Madrid downs Barcelona again

March 2, 2013











Real Madrid beat Barcelona for the second time in five days, earning a 2-1 win Saturday which will do little to prevent its fierce rival from reclaiming the Spanish league title but should boost Jose Mourinho's team ahead of its critical Champions League trip to Manchester United.

Sergio Ramos netted the winner in the 82nd minute when he rose up to head in Luka Modric's corner to give Madrid its first home league victory over Barcelona since 2008, in a game that grew testy toward the end and saw Barca goalkeeper Victor Valdes sent off for protesting.

Lionel Messi had extended his Spanish league scoring record to 16 straight games when he equalized in the 18th minute to cancel out Karim Benzema's sixth-minute opener. That was Messi's 18th career goal in ''clasico'' matches to tie Madrid great Alfredo Di Stefano's mark set in the 1950s and `60s, but Barcelona was otherwise a shadow of the thrilling team that until last season had dominated the rivalry in recent years.

''We deserved to win. The team has been strengthened by these `clasico' matches,'' Ramos said. ''We are going to Manchester convinced (we will move on) but with respect for our opponent.''

Madrid even managed without Cristiano Ronaldo for much of the match, as Mourinho rested the Portuguese winger until the final half hour with the game against United on Tuesday in mind.

Ronaldo scored twice on Tuesday in a 3-1 win over Barcelona at Camp Nou that put Madrid into the Copa del Rey final.

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Gedo scored twice as Hull hammered Birmingham 5-1 to go second

March 2, 2013









Victory helped Hull leapfrog Watford into the second automatic promotion spot in the Championship and the outcome was never in doubt after on-loan midfielder Boyd put the home side ahead inside a minute of his home debut with his first goal for the Tigers.

Fellow midfielder Robbie Brady released Boyd with an accurate pass and the 27-year-old rounded Blues' England U21 goalkeeper Jack Butland to tap an opener into an unguarded goal.

And in-form Egypt forward Gedo continued his rich vein of form since also signing on loan by soon doubling the hosts' advantage after Stephen Caldwell failed to deal with a forward pass 10 minutes later.

He nipped in to fire past Butland with ease before Boyd had Hull 3-0 up after 33 minutes from Ahmed Elmohamady's delivery, which ricocheted for him to shoot just beyond the keeper.

Hungary schemer Robert Koren effectively sealed the points when his shot from distance found the target, despite a touch from Butland, four minutes after the restart.

Butland did produce a point-blank save to deny Gedo but he was helpless when the Egyptian nodded Hull's fifth - his fifth goal in five games - from compatriot Elmohamady's cross (76).

Peter Lovenkrands pulled one back for Lee Clark's strugglers with a deflected shot from 25 yards with seven minutes left and Chris Burke, after Curtis Davies' effort from distance was teed back by Nikola Zigic, at least ensured the visitors finished on a high with a low drive (87).

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Barcelona drops in AP football rankings
Lionel Messi was ousted from the top by 20-year-old Stephan El Shaarawy.

2/26/2013




With nine goals in one week, Bayern Munich has dislodged Barcelona from the top position in The Associated Press global football rankings.

And despite scoring 38 goals so far this season, Barcelona forward Lionel Messi was ousted from the top of the player rankings by 20-year-old Stephan El Shaarawy.

El Shaarawy scored in AC Milan's 1-1 draw with city rival Inter on Sunday and played a key role in the 2-0 Champions League victory over the Spanish league leaders.

Several panelists in the AP rankings paid tribute to Bayern and said elimination from the Champions League could permanently cost Barcelona its dominant position in the rankings.


AC Milan was in second place, with 135 points, for its victory over Barcelona and the draw against Inter, and Manchester United was third as it stayed 12 points clear in the Premier League and held Real Madrid to a 1-1 draw at the Bernabeu in the Champions League.

El Shaarawy has scored 23 goals this season and the AC Milan player nicknamed "The Pharoah" after his Egyptian family is seen as one of the big hopes of the future of Italian football.

"Milan almost had a perfect week," Federico Giammaria of Argentina's La Voz daily said. "And Stephan El Shaarawy is the reason why. He was the key against Barcelona and also a star against Inter. It was a great week for the 'Pharaoh' who promises more goals in the second chapter in Camp Nou."

Messi earned second place and prolific Bayern striker Mario Gomez was third with 59 points, 20 behind Messi.

Fourth position in both the team and players' rankings was awarded to the newly-promoted Premier League team Sawnsea, which won the League Cup on Sunday with a comfortable 5-0 victory over Bradford. Nathan Dyer, who scored twice at Wembley, was tied for fourth with FC Porto striker Jackson Martinez.


Paris Saint-Germain, boosted by the presence of David Beckham, came in fifth in the team rankings after the victory over Marseille, a win that took the Parisian club three points clear at the top of the French league.

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David Beckham may start for PSG against Marseille

23/2/2013



David Beckham is in Paris Saint-Germain's squad to face bitter rival Marseille and could make his club debut in the French league on Sunday




The 37-year-old former England captain has not played since his last appearance for the Los Angeles Galaxy on Dec. 1, and has been stepping up his training in a bid to be ready for Sunday's game at Parc des Princes.


"Maybe he'll start, because he's fit to start," PSG coach Carlo Ancelotti told a news conference on Saturday. "If he starts, he'll play in central midfield."

PSG leads second-place Lyon by three points and third-place Marseille by five heading into this weekend's matches.

Beckham is looking to win championships in four different countries, after title successes with Manchester United, Real Madrid and the Galaxy.

He could also play a part in Wednesday's French Cup game at home to Marseille.

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Egypt’s Ahly survive Congolese scare to win African Super Cup

23/2/2013




Two second-half goals give Ahly a narrow 2-1 victory over AC Leopards in the African Super Cup on Saturday





Egypt’s Ahly won a record-extending fifth African Super Cup title following a narrow 2-1 victory over Congolese side AC Leopards, who were no pushovers against their mighty opponents.


The hosts, playing in front of around 3,000 spectators at Alexandria’s Egyptian Army Stadium, wasted a handful of clear-cut opportunities before finally breaking the deadlock ten minutes after the restart, thanks to a fierce drive from defensive midfielder Rami Rabeia.

Veteran midfielder Mohamed Barakat looked to have put the tie to bed after doubling Ahly’s lead but Leopards pulled one back with 12 minutes remaining when Rudy Bhebey Ndey held off Wael Gomaa to drill home from inside the area.

Ahly survived a late onslaught, thanks to some stunning saves from goalkeeper Sherif Ekramy, to win the African Super Cup for the first time since 2009 and add it to their trophy-laden cabinet.

They worked hard for that triumph though, despite the gulf in class between them and Leopards, who won their first ever continental title when they lifted the Confederation Cup trophy last year.

Ahly once again lacked the cutting edge in a first half they dominated, with attacking duo El-Sayed Hamdi and new signing Ahmed Abdel-Zaher unable to capitalize on a series of chances set up by lively playmaker Abdallah El-Said.

El-Said had two shots that narrowly missed the target early on before releasing Abdel-Zaher with a fine threaded pass after 10 minutes but the latter’s sliding effort went wide.

Hamdi shot across the six-yard box when well positioned to score and left-back Ahmed Shedid had his long-range free kick tipped over by the keeper as Ahly piled on pressure.

However, they were almost caught on the break in the 37th minute when a poor back header by Gomaa found Leopards forward Ndey, who rounded Ekramy but saw his subsequent shot strike the post.

Ahly’s pressure paid dividends on 55 minutes when Rabiea’s thunderous long-range low shot went into the bottom corner.

Barakat, one of Ahly’s old guard who won four African Champions League titles, extended the gap in the 71st minute when he ran onto another defence-splitting pass from El-Said to slip the ball beyond the keeper and into the net.

Leopards, refusing to throw in the towel, were still dangerous on the break and narrowed the gap in the 78th minute when Ndey, under little pressure from marker Gomaa, swivelled and drilled home from inside the area.

They were unlucky not to restore parity deep in stoppage time when they had a powerful shot blocked by Ekramy as Ahly held on to win the tie.

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AC Milan a shock 2-0 win over Barcelona on Wednesday.

Kevin-Prince Boateng and Sulley Muntari put Ghana in the Champions League spotlight as they scored the goals which gave AC Milan a shock 2-0 win over Barcelona on Wednesday.

Boateng, who played for the Black Stars at the 2010 World Cup, swept home the first goal just before the hour and Muntari, back after missing the first half of the season with a knee injury, blasted a superb second.

"It was definitely the most important goal of my career," Muntari, famous for his blistering left-foot shot, told reporters.

"We knew it would not be easy but that we could do it," he said. "We were disciplined, blocking out Barcelona's game."

Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri paid another tribute to club president Silvio Berlusconi after the famous win.

"We dedicate this to the president, because he has given me a team I can work with," said Allegri, who before the game said he frequently discusses tactics with the former Italy Prime Minister.

"This is a team I can help improve and we have to forget a bit about what happened earlier in the season," added the coach.

Milan sold off several players at the end of last season to cut costs and struggled at the start of this term as Allegri was forced to rebuild.

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Bayern Munich were ruthless, admits Bastian Schweinsteiger

20 February 2013



Bastian Schweinsteiger helped Bayern Munich edge towards the Champions League quarter-finals but warned the job is not yet complete.



Last night's 3-1 win over Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium means Bayern have a handsome advantage ahead of the home leg on March 13.



After receiving his third booking in this season's competition, midfielder Schweinsteiger will be suspended when Arsenal visit the Allianz Arena.

That means the Germans will be without a star man, but goals from Toni Kroos, Thomas Muller and Mario Mandzukic have put Bayern in control of the tie. Schweinsteiger appreciates that, but says there can be no slacking at this stage.

"We really got going well, especially in the first 30 minutes, when we let the ball and our opponents do the work," Schweinsteiger (above, battling with Jack Wilshere) said.

"We were ruthless, especially in terms of taking our chances, but the third goal was vital too."

He said on Bayern's official website: "We mustn't underestimate Arsenal, they have some very good players, and we'll have to give it 100 per cent in the return. Arsenal aren't just dropping by as tourists. It's a good result, but it's not over yet."

For midfielder Kroos, there was disappointment that Bayern did not leave London with a clean sheet.

Kroos said: "We were outstanding for very long spells against a top European club.

"There was a phase just before and just after the break when Arsenal got at us, but you'll never entirely prevent that.

"They failed to create clear-cut chances, but it hurts to let in a goal, and it shouldn't be happening."

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Gedo strike earns Hull vital win over Charlton

Feb 16, 2013









A strike from Mohamed Gedo was enough to secure a vital win for Hull City over Charlton Athletic to strengthen their automatic promotion hopes. 

Hull could have been in the lead in the 10th minute asPaul McShane whipped a cross to the back post and found David Meyler whose header was cleared the ball off the line by Dale Stephens. 

Steve Bruce's side took the lead in the 33rd minute as Gedo scored his second goal of the week as he poked home from close range after Ben Hamer came for a corner and missed the ball. 

Charlton hadn't threatened David Stockdale's goal until Bradley Pritchard drove into the Hull box but he could only fire his shot just wide of the post after beating the keeper. 

Minutes later, substitute Danny Haynes found himself in on goal as he latched onto a lofted ball into the area but he couldn't beat Stockdale as he powered his shot straight into his hands. 

Haynes had another great chance to get his side level as Bradley Wright-Phillips found him in the box but his effort was beaten away brilliantly by Stockdale. Which was enough to close out the win for the home side. 

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Egypt hit by worst FIFA ranking ever

14/2/2013

Out of action Egypt ‘disappointed’ by dropping 16 places in February's global rankings, to number 70






The Egyptian national team fell in the FIFA global rankings to 70th place in February.

The holders of seven Africa Cup of Nation trophies, who were once in the top ten, were hit by a 16 position slide in the global rankings, which were announced on Thursday.

The Pharaohs' global ranking was influenced by lack of participation, after the disqualification from the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN), in addition to successive defeats in friendly games -- 0-3 to Ghana, 2-4 to Ivory Coast and 1-2 to Chile.

The technical staff, under the guidance of American manager Bob Bradley, expressed sadness over Egypt's worst ranking since the FIFA started their ranking system in 1993.

“Losing 16 positions at one time is really disappointing, but we are hoping we will advance again after defeating Zimbabwe in March,” Egypt goalkeeper coach Zaki Abdel-Fattah told Ahram Sports.

Egypt will face Zimbabwe on 26 March in the 2014 World Cup qualifiers, in an attempt to end a 24 year absence from the most prestigious tournament.

They top qualifiers Group G with six points from two games, three ahead of second-placed Guinea. Zimbabwe and Mozambique hold one point each.

CAN 2012 champions Nigeria are celebrating their highest position in 3 years, jumping 22 places to number 30.

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Balotelli scores twice on Milan debut

Mario Balotelli scored twice, including a hugely-controversial penalty three minutes into stoppage time, on his AC Milan debut to give them a 2-1 win over Udinese on Sunday, three days after completing his move from English champions Manchester City.

Furious Udinese players surrounded the referee to protest and police came onto the field to protect the official after the final whistle.

Balotelli was included in the starting line-up at the last minute after Giampaolo Pazzini pulled out during the warm-up.

The maverick Italy striker, who moved to Milan for a fee media reports put at 20 million pounds, opened his account by turning the ball in from six metres in the Serie A game against Udinese after Stephan El Shaaraway's cross from the left was deflected to his feet.

He nearly added another two minutes later with a dipping shot which was turned over by the bar by Udinese goalkeeper Daniele Padelli.

Giampiero Pinzi equalised on the break in the 55th minute when Udinese caught Milan napping and the home defence suddenly began to look vulnerable.

Balotelli was close in the 85th minute with a low free kick which Padelli turned around his post.

The match ended in uproar when Thomas Heurtaux tackled El Shaaraway who fell theatrically in the area and the referee pointed to the spot. Balotelli calmly converted to lift Milan to fourth in the table, ahead of rivals Inter Milan on goal difference.

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Bruce Pleased With Additions

City manager looking forward to the arrival of Egyptian internationals....




Steve Bruce has admitted he is excited about the loan signings of Gedo and Ahmed Fathi.

The Egyptian international duo are expected to join up with the Tigers’ first team squad next week after agreeing deals on transfer deadline day and it is hoped the Al-Ahly pair will provide a further boost to Bruce’s promotion ambitions.

“They’re two internationals and the boy Gedo is an international striker of the highest quality,” said Bruce.

“They’ve just played in the World Club tournament a few weeks ago and for those who don’t know, Al-Ahly is arguably the biggest club in Africa and regularly get crowds of 75,000 people.

“It’s fantastic to be bringing in two international footballers here for the rest of the season and we’re looking forward to them arriving.

“Gedo has a really good scoring record and is fantastic at international level. He plays off both feet and can be a big asset to us.

“Fathi (pictured) can play anywhere. I saw him play as the left centre back against England at Wembley, he can play right back, centre back, defensive midfield....he has versatility.”

Bruce is also delighted to have Ahmed Elmohamady back in his squad after Sunderland agreed to allow the right-wing back to return to the KC Stadium to complete his season on loan with the Tigers.

“I’ve got to say thank you to Martin O’Neill for letting Ahmed come back here,” added Bruce.

“With the way we play, he is a key player and makes the wing-back position look very easy. The ability to run up and down the wing is an art and the position suits him down to the ground.

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Egypt call up 22 players for Chile friendly

Hull City duo Gedo and Fathi drafted into Egypt's squad to play Chile in Madrid on Wednesday






Egypt manager Bob Bradley has announced a 22-man squad for Wednesday's friendly against Chile.

The Pharaohs will meet on Monday afternoon to start a training camp in Madrid where the game will be held at the Atlético stadium.
The squad is as follows:

Goalkeepers: Essam El-Hadary, Sherif Ekramy, Ali Lotfy.

Defenders: Wael Gomaa, Rami Rabea, Mohamed El-Nenny, Mohamed Ibrahim, Ahmed Shedid.

Midfielders: Ahmed Fathi, Mohamed Abdel-Shafy, Mohamed Salah, Ahmed Said ‘Oka’, Hosni Abd-Rabou, Omar Gaber, Mohamed Abou-Treika.

Strikers: Sayed Hamdy, Mohamed Nagy ‘Gedo’, Abdullah El-Said, Adam El-Abd, Ahmed Hassan ‘Koka’, Ahmed Hassan Mekky.

Egypt, who lost in two successive friendlies last month against Ghana and Ivory Coast in the UAE, will host Zimbabwe in March in their third match in the World Cup qualifiers group stage.

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San Jose Earthquakes Select Three in MLS Supplemental Draft

Adam Jahn : Forward

The San Jose Earthquakes selected three players in Tuesday’s MLS Supplemental Draft, including Stanford forward Adam Jahn (First round, No. 15 overall), Oregon State defender Colin Mitchell (Third round, No. 53 overall) and UC Santa Barbara defender Peter McGlynn (Fourth round, No. 72 overall).
 
Jahn, 22, was a four-year starter for Stanford. The target man had 16 goals and 10 assists in 65 career appearances for the Cardinal. He was an All-Pac 12 and All-Far West Region selection as a junior in 2011 and a senior in 2012. Jahn has also seen time for U.S. youth teams, making the camp roster for the U-20s in July of 2010 and suiting up for the U-18s as a prep with Jesuit High School in Carmichael, Calif.
 
Mitchell, 22, was a four-year starter for Oregon State. He scored nine goals and had four assists in 70 career appearances for the Beavers. The San Francisco native graduated from University High School in 2008 after winning three-consecutive Bay Counties League titles with the Red Devils.
 
McGlynn, 23, was a fixture for UC Santa Barbara during his four years on campus. The Irish defender had two goals and six assists in 76 career games for the Gauchos. He previously played in the Shelbourne FC academy from 2000-08, helping the club to six league titles and four cup competition victories.
 
The 3 will join San Jose in camp this week. The Earthquakes reported for preseason training on Monday and will continue to practice locally through the weekend before departing for a week long session in Tucson, Ariz.
 
 

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Dempsey salvages late draw for Spurs against Manchester United

20/1/2013



Man United leads the Premier League table with 56 points from 23 games






Clint Dempsey's scored in stoppage time as Tottenham Hotspur drew 1-1 with Premier League leaders Manchester United at White Hart Lane on Sunday.

On an Arctic-like afternoon in north London Robin van Persie's first-half goal appeared to have secured the points for United until Dempsey slid home an equaliser with virtually the final kick of the game.

The leaders have 56 points from 23 games with Manchester City on 51 and Chelsea, who beat Arsenal 2-1 earlier in the snow-hit capital, on 45, four ahead of Tottenham.

Dutchman van Persie, often a thorn in Tottenham's side when he was at Arsenal, took his league tally for the season to 18 with a header from Tom Cleverley's cross midway through the opening period of an absorbing game.

Tottenham, whose strong recent run had seen them establish themselves in the top four, were twice denied equalisers by the outstretched legs of United keeper David De Gea as they attempted a rare league double over Alex Ferguson's side.

Gareth Bale thought he had equalised shortly before halftime but De Gea performed marvels to keep out his deflected shot and after the break Dempsey wriggled through only to see the keeper again come to United's rescue.

United, who began with Wayne Rooney on the bench, showed another side to their character. With resolute defending rather than fluent attacking play, they were content to absorb pressure and the policy seemed to have earned an important victory.

As the snow poured down, Bale also went agonisingly close to a late equaliser with a shot deflected past the post.

However, the hosts kept plugging away and Dempsey was on hand to equalise after De Gea could only punch a clearance to Aaron Lennon and the winger threaded a pass to the American.

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Man City captain Kompany wins red card appeal

16/1/2013


Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany has won his appeal for wrongful dismissal in Sunday's league win at Arsenal, the Premier League champions said on Tuesday





The Belgian was shown a straight red card by referee Mike Dean in the 75th minute for what was deemed a two-footed lunge on Jack Wilshire.

"We can officially confirm that Vincent Kompany's red card against Arsenal has been overturned," City said on their Twitter feed on Tuesday.

The FA confirmed the decision made by an Independent Regulatory Commission.

"Kompany's three-match suspension has been withdrawn with immediate effect," the governing body said in a statement.

Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini was furious at Kompany's dismissal, describing it as a "big mistake" by Dean and stating that his captain won the ball.

"It's not a red card, it's nothing," Mancini railed after second-placed City won 2-0 at the Emirates to remain seven points behind Premier League leaders Manchester United.

"It was one-footed, not two."

Kompany later tweeted that he had no grudge against Dean, saying he understood the difficulty of the job.

Several former players came out in defence of Kompany but other pundits said the red card was warranted.

The FA has overturned a number of red cards in recent months.

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Real Madrid too good for Valencia

16/1/2013

Real Madrid were on course for a place in the King's Cup semi-finals after securing a 2-0 first-leg victory over Valencia at the Bernabeu on Tuesday





Karim Benzema scored just before the break and an own-goal from Andres Guardado in the 74th minute gave Jose Mourinho's side the advantage in the quarter-final ahead of next week's return at the Mestalla.


Holders Barcelona are at home to Malaga on Wednesday, when Real Zaragoza play Sevilla, and the other last-eight first leg is on Thursday when Atletico Madrid receive Real Betis.

After a recent poor run of form, Mourinho's name once again was met with a mixture of whistles and applause before kickoff as he took charge of the 600th top-flight match of his career.

Brazil full back Marcelo was back in the side after almost three months out with a foot injury but first-choice centre-backs Sergio Ramos and Pepe were missing through suspension and injury respectively.

Luka Modric fluffed an early chance for the hosts and Iker Casillas pulled off a great reflex save to deny Jonas.

As so often happens with Real, a close chance at one end turned into a goal at the other, as Michael Essien burst away on a counter-attack.

He fed Sami Khedira, who immediately laid off for Benzema and the hosts were 1-0 up in the 37th minute.

Valencia carved the perfect opportunity to equalise midway through the second half, after good work by Ever Banega, but when Casillas parried Roberto Soldado's shot Jonas fired wide of the gaping goal.

As with the first goal, Real immediately struck back.

Substitute Fabio Coentrao's low cross was turned into the net by a combination of Guardado and Gonzalo Higuain as the two slid in at the near post, the Argentine getting the final touch with his hand.

Valencia keeper Vicente Guaita denied Ronaldo with two magnificent saves towards the end to keep his side's hopes alive in the tie. 

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Egypt receive offer to face Tunisia in friendly ahead of Nations Cup

10 Jan 2013



Tunisia want to play an African Nations Cup warm-up against Egypt






Egypt received an offer to face North African rivals Tunisia in a friendly game in the UAE ahead of this month's Africa Cup of Nations, the Egyptian Football Association (EFA) said on Wednesday.

The Pharaohs , who failed to qualify for the Nations Cup for the second time in a row, are currently holding a training camp in UAE to prepare for their upcoming clash against Zimbabwe in a World Cup qualifier in March.

They will play two friendly games against Ghana and Ivory Coast on 10 and 14 January respectively.

"We received an official request from the Tunisian FA to play Egypt in UAE after Ivory Coast's friendly," EFA official Mahmoud El-Shamy said on the association's website.

"We will pass the offer to coach Bob Bradley, who will have the final word."

Meanwhile, Tunisia are preparing for the Nations Cup, which will start on 19 January in South Africa. They will play in Group D alongside Ivory Coast, Algeria and Togo.   

The Pharaohs lost 1-0 to Tunisia in their last friendly game against the Carthage Eagles last October.

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Real Madrid targeting Spain Cup and Champions League: Ronaldo

 10 Jan 2013




Cristiano Ronaldo calls for support from fans, says Real Madrid targeting Spain Cup and Champions League




After scoring three goals in the 4-0 win over Celta Vigo in the Spain Cup on Thursday, Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo praised the performance of his teammates, asking the team's fans to continue supporting the team.

"The team was perfect. We started very well, with a goal after two minutes, and then we had control for the whole match," Ronaldo was quoted as saying on the club's official website.

"I feel very good. After the Christmas break we are training very well and because of that I think that players are doing better," he added.

"I have to thank the fans, they are with the team. I am very happy about that.

"When people support me I feel better, more motivated and happy and also play better.

"We have a lot to win this year. We are still in the cup and the Champions League. We are doing better. I appeal to the fans to encourage the team and together we can win something, because we feel everything on the field and it can affect us.

"We need help, not to be criticised and to all be together," the Portuguese attacker concluded.

Real Madrid are third in the table with 36 points, 16 behind archrivals and leaders Barcelona after 18 matches

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Bob Bradley wins 2012 Goal.com USA Award

Bradley's courage and perseverance inspired not only his adopted country of Egypt but the U.S. as well, and he has been honored as the most influential figure in American soccer.


When the Port Said riots ended the lives of 74 people during a soccer match on Feb. 1, Egyptian national team head coach Bob Bradley was confronted with a difficult decision. 

He could have gone toward the route of self preservation, stepping down as coach and returning to the United States. No one would have begrudged Bradley for that choice. With lives constantly at stake due to an ongoing revolution in the country and the future of Egyptian soccer in the balance, ensuring the safety of his wife along with looking for more stable employment would have been a prudent option.  



Yet, Bradley knew how important soccer was to the morale of each Egyptian. He understood that in a country split on its beliefs, the one unifier was the Pharaohs, the national team. As daunting as the task was, there was no way Bradley could leave his players or his adopted country behind. 

"Camps and friendlies [after the tragedy] became the opportunities to refocus the players on the dream of all Egyptians - to qualify for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil," Bradley told Goal.com via email. 

"We emphasized the need to be strong and to never let the distractions take us away from this dream. We established a vision for our team, a way of working, communicating and trusting each other. That in this difficult period we could do something special."



It was already a groundbreaking move for Bradley to take a major international job abroad, let alone in the Middle East where the thoughts about Americans aren't always the greatest. The fact that Bradley remained committed to the Pharaohs in a country with volatile instability served as an inspiration not only to Egyptians but to many back in the United States as well. 

Seeing pictures of Bradley and his wife Lindsaybeing a part of the memorial services or his daughters helping in hospitals in the country, displayed how much Bradley allowed his family to be immersed in the current events of his adopted country. Bradley had his share of critics during his tenure as the head coach of the U.S., but even his staunchest critics are hoping that he succeeds in bringing Egypt to its first World Cup in over 20 years. 

Bradley acknowledges that reaching the 2014 World Cup will be difficult but he is encouraged by recent developments. He has found a valuable leader in Mohamed Aboutrika, who won African Player of the Year, and new talent is emerging. One of Egypt's top prospects, Mohamed Salah, has joined Swiss side FC Basel and center back Ahmed Hegazy plays for Serie A side Fiorentina. 

Egypt has also gotten off to a solid start in World Cup qualifying, gaining six points in its first two games. Bradley knows that there will be challenges and uncertainties that lie ahead for him and his team but he is undaunted and determined to see Egypt reach its dream. 

"[There are] many unanswered questions," Bradley said. "League or no league? Fans or no fans? Very few answers. But one thing remains clear - the belief that we can get to Brazil. I continually tell the players to keep their eyes on the prize."

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U.S. names roster for January camp, Canada friendly

Several players could be set to pick up their first U.S. national team caps after Jurgen Klinsmann named a largely experimental group for the annual winter camp.


U.S. national team manager Jurgen Klinsmann has announced a 25-man roster for the side's January training camp and the Jan. 29th friendly against Canada in Houston.

MLS MVP and golden boot winner Chris Wondolowski, MLS Cup MVP Omar Gonzalez and last year's January standout Graham Zusi headline the selections with Wondolowski's San Jose Earthquakes teammates Steven Beitashour and Justin Morrow included among the defenders, while Houston Dynamo duo Tally Hall and Will Bruin could make their international debuts after helping their side reach a second successive MLS Cup final. They could get the chance to play against Canada at their home arena, BBVA Compass Stadium.

National team stalwart Landon Donovan is not included in the squad as he continues to take time off to contemplate his future, but fellow LA Galaxy players Gonzalez and A.J. DeLaGarza are.

Former Rangers and Heslingborg midfielder Alejandro Bedoya has been included despite currently being without a club, and he, Josh Gatt, Mix Diskerud and Alfredo Morales are the only non-MLS-based players who will partake in the camp.

GOALKEEPERS (3): Tally Hall (Houston Dynamo), Bill Hamid (D.C. United), Sean Johnson (Chicago Fire) 

DEFENDERS (9): Steven Beitashour (San Jose Earthquakes), Tony Beltran (Real Salt Lake), Matt Besler (Sporting Kansas City), A.J. DeLaGarza (LA Galaxy), Omar Gonzalez (LA Galaxy), Connor Lade (New York Red Bulls), Alfredo Morales (Hertha Berlin), Justin Morrow (San Jose Earthquakes), Jeff Parke (Philadelphia Union) 

MIDFIELDERS (8): Kyle Beckerman (Real Salt Lake), Alejandro Bedoya (out of contract), Brad Davis (Houston Dynamo), Mix Diskerud (Rosenborg), Brad Evans (Seattle Sounders), Benny Feilhaber (Sporting Kansas City), Joshua Gatt (Molde), Graham Zusi (Sporting Kansas City)
 
FORWARDS (5): Juan Agudelo (Chivas USA), Will Bruin (Houston Dynamo), Edson Buddle (Colorado Rapids), Eddie Johnson (Seattle Sounders), Chris Wondolowski (San Jose Earthquakes)

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Dominant Egypt crush Qatar

29/12/2012









Egypt yesterday hammered hosts Qatar 2-0 in a friendly at Al Gharafa Stadium, giving headaches to coach Paulo Autuori ahead of next month’s Gulf Cup. 

Goals by Hamdy Al-Sayed (28) and Mohammed Nagy (59) sealed the deal for Bob Bradley-coached Egyptian side that dominated play from the start of the match. 

Many people attended the evening match at Al Gharafa Stadium, with people from both sides cheering on their team.

Before the match, Qatar Football Assocation President Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Thani said the money collected from yesterday’s match will be donated to the families of the fans killed in the Port Said Stadium in Febraury 2012. 

Al Sayed scored the first goal from close range following a defensive lapse from the home side. 

Qatar coach Autuori presented a disgruntled look as the ball went past home goalkeeper Qasim Burahan.

Later in the second half, Nagy hoodwinked his marker and slipped the ball past Burhan with a slick finish again from close range. 

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Ahly offered friendlies against Rayo Vallecano, Zenit, Shakhtar

25/12/2012




Spanish club Rayo Vallecano, Russian FC Zenit and Ukrainian Shakhtar want to play the world’s fourth in friendly games ahead of African Super Cup






Ahly football team have been offered three friendly games after they pulled out of a Qatar friendly and cancelled one with Getafe.

"We agreed to play two games in January 18 and 20 against Ukraine’s Shakhtar and FC Zenit of Russia. The third game will be in February against Rayo Vallecano of Spain," the Red Devils’ marketing manager Magdy Tolba told the club’s official website.

"The offers will be discussed with manager Hossam El-Badry to confirm the scheduling," Tolba added.

The CAF Champions League Champions, who finished fourth in the Club World Cup will play the African Super Cup against Confederation Cup winners Leopards of Congo between 22 and 24 February.

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Egypt to fly to Qatar for a football friendly

25/12/2012





The Pharaohs are heading to Doha on Friday to play a friendly against Qatar as part of their preparations for the 2014 World Cup qualifiers





Egypt’s national football team will face Qatar in a friendly on Friday as part of their preparations for the 2014 World Cup qualifiers.

The Pharaohs’ coach Bob Bradley named his 25-man squad last week as the team prepare to face Zimbabwe in March next year.

Ahly players finally joined the squad after months of absence due to their participation in the CAF Champions League and Club World Cup.

However, Ahly defender Mohamed Naguib remains missing after going AWOL. The club said they could not reach the player.

Egypt top Group G of the World Cup qualifiers with six points from two games, three ahead of second-placed Guinea. Zimbabwe and Mozambique have one point each.

Egypt squad:                

Goalkeepers: Essam El-Hadary (Merreikh), Ahmed El-Shennawy (Zamalek)

Defenders: Omar Gaber (Zamalek), Mohamed Abdel-Shafi (Zamalek), Wael Gomaa (Ahly), Mohamed Naguib (Ahly), Mamoud Fathallah (Zamalek), Ahmed Shedid Qenawi (Ahly), Rami Rabea (Ahly), Moaz El-Hennawy (Maqassa)

Midfielders: Bassem Ali (Arab Contractors), Islam Ramadan (Haras El-Hodoud), Mohamed El-Nenny (Arab Contractors), Ibrahim Salah (Zamalek), Saleh Gomaa (ENPPI), Abdullah El-Said (Ahly), Mohamed Abou-Treika (Ahly), Amr El-Solaya (Ismaily)

Strikers: Mohamed Ibrahim (Zamalek), Ahmed Temsah (Dakheliya), Ahmed Hassan Mekki (Haras El-Hodoud), Sherif Ashraf (FF Jaro), Mohamed Nagy ‘Geddo’ (Ahly), El-Sayed Hamdy (Ahly), Marwan Mohsen (Petrojet).

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'We shouldn't think about Barcelona,' says Real Madrid's Ramos 

23 Dec 2012




Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos says Los Merengues' chances to secure La Liga title have become slim after loss to Malaga







After losing 3-2 to Malaga and separating the points gap with archrivals Barcelona, Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos confirmed that it's difficult to compete for La Liga's title blaming players for wasting chances.

"Once again we have dropped important points despite the team playing well in the first half," Ramos was quoted as saying on Real Madrid's official website.

"We had chances to score but we didn’t have any luck," he added.

The 26-year-old Ramos, who played the full 90 minutes of Real Madrid's defeat by Malaga, asked his teammates to concentrate on the field and not think about other teams' results. "We shouldn’t think about the league leaders or anybody else," he said.

"We should only think about ourselves. We must be self-critical, and La Liga is now very difficult, practically impossible, but we need to keep on fighting," the defender said.

Real Madrid are third in the Spanish La Liga table with 33 points, 16 behind archrivals and leaders Barcelona after 17 matchdays.

Ramos praised Real Madrid influential captain and goalkeeper Iker Casillas who had been left out of the team's lineup for the game against Malaga on Saturday.

"Iker is the captain and he will continue to be the captain because he is a great goalkeeper,” he said.

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In Wake of Deadly Riot, Egyptian Team Plays On

Ahmed Fathi, a defensive midfielder, ran for his life when he saw thousands of Egyptian opposition supporters streaming toward him on the field. His team, Al Ahly of Cairo, had just lost a local league game in February to Al Masry in the city of Port Said.

Al Ahly does not lose often. It is the biggest and most successful soccer club in Egypt, and it claims to have tens of millions of fans worldwide. But the Masry supporters were not celebrating their victory. Something had gone terribly wrong.

“The fans were coming, sprinting after the match,” Fathi, 28, recalled last week. “I knew they hated me and all the players. All the players ran. I didn’t know what was happening outside. But something was happening outside. After this they killed the boys. Not the men, the boys.”

As Fathi and his teammates took refuge from the Masry supporters in a changing room, one of the darkest incidents in soccer history was unfolding in the nearby bleachers.

Within the hour, more than 70 people, many of them Ahly fans and members of the club’s fan group, the Ultras Ahlawy, lay dead.

“One of the fans came to the room and said: ‘You have a problem outside. Someone has been killed.’ And then another has been killed, and another,” he said.

“After this another comes in, and he has a wound.”

Fathi slowly ran a finger from the left side of his temple to his chin, to illustrate the gash to the young man’s face.

It was the bloodiest day in Egypt in the wake of the ouster 22 months ago of President Hosni Mubarak, who ruled for nearly three decades. There were widespread accusations that the military-led government that had replaced Mubarak allowed the violence to escalate to justify its powers and undermine the revolution.

In the aftermath, the soccer league’s season was immediately canceled. Play has yet to resume, and some clubs are teetering on the edge of bankruptcy. But Fathi and his teammates have somehow endured and continue to play on. The team dedicated itself to taking part in the most prestigious competition that remained — the tough African Champions League — and vowed to honor those who died by winning it.

And it did. Last month, the Ahly beat Esperance of Tunisia to be crowned champion of Africa, taking a path to the title that meant fending with protests, conspiracy theories and a coup in Mali during a match on the road.

Not only was it the Ahly’s seventh victory in the club competition — making it the most decorated club in African history — but it also meant the team qualified for the Club World Cup in Japan, where the champions of six regional soccer confederations battled it out through last weekend to be crowned the best in the world. Another title, another chance to honor those who had died, was at stake.

The man who had taken the Ahly this far, who had put it back on track after the blood bath, who had gotten through to players who had been scarred by the mayhem they had witnessed, was the 52-year-old coach, Hossam el-Badry.

“The club called me to take charge as head coach, but it was very difficult for me to prepare the players emotionally after Port Said,” Badry said the day before the Ahly was to play the Japanese champion Sanfrecce Hiroshima in the Club World Cup quarterfinal.

The Port Said incident had led several of the players to retire immediately from soccer. Among them was Mohamed Aboutrika, the Ahly’s renowned midfielder and one of the greatest players Africa has produced.

As the fans were being killed in Port Said — some crushed to death in a stampede, others stabbed and beaten by the Masry supporters — Aboutrika was said to have held a fan in his arms as he died on the dressing room floor.

For Badry, the answer to getting his players to focus on soccer again was to convince them that redemption for what had occurred could be found on the field.

“I told them I know it is very difficult to forget that day,” he said. “You have to change this bad moment to make something good for them.”

The players who retired were talked into changing their minds. But they returned for an African Champions League competition played on an uneasy terrain. The Ahly’s home group matches had to be held with the fans barred. Then, during an early round of matches in May, the team was stranded for four days in Mali’s capital, Bamako, after a coup. It was eventually airlifted out by military transport plane.

“We remember when we were waiting for the flight to take us back,” Badry recalled with a shake of the head. “Every minute, every hour, waiting for the plane.”

Still, the Ahly won it all, and now came the final challenge of this difficult year, in Japan.

Last week, snow fell heavily on the field at Toyota Stadium in Nagoya before the Ahly’s match against Hiroshima. Inside stood a hundred members of the Ultras Ahlawy, the fan group whose members were killed in Port Said.

For many in Egypt, the Ultras Ahlawy played an important role in the revolution, providing thousands of organized, secular, anti-authoritarian young men to fight on the front lines in Tahrir Square.

The Ultras Ahlawy was formed in 2007. Initially, the Ahlawy was a way of supporting the team with banners and songs and disparaging its great city rival, Zamalek. But it soon turned political when the Mubarak government cracked down on the group. Many of the members were arrested.

“We became what they feared the most,” said the founder of the Ahlawy, who declined to give his real name because he feared reprisals.

The match against Hiroshima was the first that he and the Ahlawy had attended since Port Said. The group had successfully campaigned to have league play in Egypt remain suspended until the completion of the trial of 75 Masry fans and security officers accused in connection with the Port Said deaths. The officers were charged with complicity in the violence, of knowing trouble was likely to occur and doing nothing to ward it off or stop it once the killings began.

“Already a date has been set to announce the verdict, which should be Jan. 26,” the group’s founder said. Around him the Ahlawy sang revolutionary songs, ones that have made the group a famous, and regular, fixture during protests in Egypt.

“We are very optimistic, and hopefully the court will bring the justice the victims deserve,” he added. “It will be unimaginable to think of how emotional and special it will be to return to football after 13 months.”

But the group may be too optimistic about the imminent return of league soccer to Egypt, where tension and controversy remain constant elements. Even here, Egypt’s problems did not seem very far away. Alongside the Ahlawy, a group of Japan-based students pulled out banners in support of the Muslim Brotherhood and Egypt’s new president, Mohamed Morsi, a former leader in the Brotherhood. Scuffles broke out between the two.

Yet, the two factions were quickly united by events on the field. With the game tied, 1-1, Aboutrika, a Muslim who once displayed a T-shirt during an international match in solidarity with the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, spun past a defender and scored the winning goal, putting the Ahly in the semifinals against South America’s Brazilian champions, Corinthians.

A double triumph seemed possible — the Africa title and the Club World Cup. But in the next game the Brazilians were too much for the Ahly, which lost, 1-0, and headed to a third-place consolation match against Monterrey of Mexico.

Before that match, the Ahly players did what they had done in every game since the Port Said incident, putting on black armbands in respect for the fans who had died. In the stands, the Ahlawy stood behind one of the goals, cheering Ahly on. Using a fishing rod, the Ahlawy founder flew an attached white flag emblazoned with the number 74, which by his count includes 72 who were killed at Port Said and 2 who died elsewhere.

But on the field, the Ahly fell short, again, losing, 2-0, its overall lack of practice showing as it repeatedly missed clear chances to score.

The Ahlawy founder packed his flag, still resilient. He said the Ahly would win the African Champions League again next year and would also win the Club World Cup, noting that it would be played in Morocco — “like a home game for us.”

He had reason to be confident. After all that had happened in the last year, the bloodshed and deaths, and the continuing chaos, the Ahly’s back-to-back defeats here amounted to nothing more than glorious failure. But Badry, the coach, was more downcast.

“I am very much disappointed,” he said. “Of course, we had many opportunities, which we missed.”

Still, for the Ahly, which plays on, more opportunities would seem to await.

Monterrey keeper 'sorry' for denying Abou-Treika Club World Cup record

16/12/2012





Jonathan Orozco says he hopes Ahly and Egypt playmaker Mohamed Abou-Treika will have another chance to become the Club World Cup all-time leading scorer




Monterrey goalkeeper Jonathan Orozco jokingly said he was sorry to Ahly playmaker Mohamed Abou-Treika for denying him the chance to become the Club World Cup all-time leading scorer.

Ahly dominated their third-place playoff against Mexico's Monterrey on Sunday but paid for their wastefulness to slump to a 2-0 loss as Abou-Treika failed to take his tally to five Club World Cup goals.

He is currently level on four goals with Argentinean wizard Lionel Messi and Brazilian forward Denilson.

“They told me he needed one more goal to do it, but I tried not to think about it. As it turned out I saved from him a few times, didn’t I?” Orozco told FIFA.com after the match.

“The hardest one was the shot he hit on the turn at the start of the second half. I only just got to it and managed to get a hand on the ball. Is there anything I want to say to him? Well, I’m very sorry [laughs], but I hope he gets another chance soon.”

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Abou-Treika is the biggest danger

15/12/2012









On the other side, Monterrey boss Victor Manuel Vecetich has described playmaker Mohamed Abou-Treika as the biggest threat among Ahly players.

"We will not try only to stop the threat of Abou-Treika, but also we will confront him with special tactics," Vecetich was quoted as saying by Ahly official website.

Alongside Ekramy, Ahly is already suffering the absence of defensive midfielder Hossam Ghaly because of a serious knee injury.

"I am not counting on the holes in the Ahly squad because the most important thing is to impose our style to win the game," concluded Vecetich.

African champions, Ahly, claimed a hard-fought 2-1 victory in the tournament's opener over Japan’s Sanfrecce Hiroshima to qualify for the semi-final where they were defeated 1-0 to Brazil's Corinthians.

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Ahly fans should be proud of their team, says vice chairman

15/12/2012












Ahly fans should be proud of their team despite their defeat in the FIFA Club World Cup semifinal, vice-chairman and club icon Mahmoud El-Khatib said on Friday.

The Red Devils beat Japan's Sanfrecce Hiroshima 2-1 in the quarter-final but could not build on their opening win after slumping to a 1-0 defeat by Copa Libertadores winners Corinthians of Brazil.

However, they can take consolation from a brave display against the Brazilian outfit, who had to survive an Ahly onslaught in the second half to set up a clash against European Champions Chelsea in the final.

Ahly will face Mexico's Monterrey in the third-place playoff on Sunday.

"The fans and the board of directors should be proud of the team. Qualifying for the World Cup was an achievement in itself, given the hard circumstances we are enduring, including domestic football stoppage," El-Khatib, one of Egypt's greatest-ever footballers, said on Ahly's official website.

Ahly made their fourth Club World Cup appearance after defying the odds to win the African Champions League last month following a 3-2 aggregate defeat over title holders Esperance of Tunisia.

They clinched a record-extending seventh Champions League title despite lack of domestic action as the Egyptian Premier League has been suspended since February's Port Said disaster.

"Ahly players earned the world's respect, regardless of the results," El-Khatib added.

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Egypt's Ahly eyeing Club World Cup consolation against Monterrey

15/12/2012







Ahly are eyeing a third-place consolation at the FIFA Club World Cup after narrowly missing out on a place in the competition’s final.

The Cairo giants take on Mexico’s Monterrey on Sunday after fighting bravely in a 1-0 semi-final defeat by Brazil’s Corinthians, who face European champions Chelsea in the final later in the day.

Ahly finished third in the 2006 edition for their best outcome in three appearances.

“Our aim now is an obvious one, to finish in third-place, the best position that we can attain,” Ahly coach Hossam El-Badry, who was hailed by local media despite the team’s failure to overcome Corinthians, said on FIFA.com.

“We have really enjoyed our time here in Japan and the people have welcomed us warmly, and now we want to repay their hospitality with a good performance.”

Corinthians had to survive a second-half onslaught against Ahly to avoid an upset, with the Egyptian champions failing to make their dominance count after missing a couple of gilt-edged opportunities after the break.

Chelsea enjoyed an easy ride against Monterrey following a 3-1 victory that leaves the Mexican as desperate as Ahly to avoid leaving the tournament empty handed.

“We have only thing left: to win the bronze medal. It would be an achievement to finish third because of the problems we are going through,” Ahly striker Emad Meteb, who came on as a second-half substitute against Corinthians but made little impact, told the pre-match news conference.

“Monterrey’s defeat against Chelsea was natural; we should not be deceived by that. Monterrey are a very good team.”

Mohamed Abou-Treika, who scored the winning goal in the opening victory over Japan’s Sanfrecce Hiroshima in the quarter-final and put in a superb second-half display against Corinthians, is likely to make his first start as he seeks to become the Club World Cup all-time top scorer.

The veteran playmaker is level on four goals with Argentinean wizard Lionel Messi and Brazilian forward Denilson.

Ahly will miss skipper Hossam Ghaly, who picked up a serious knee injury against Hiroshima, and regular goalkeeper Sherif Ekramy after he hurt his hamstring in the defeat by Corinthians.

Defensive midfielder Hossam Ashour is doubtful due to a pelvic injury.

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Brave Ahly lose to Corinthians in Club World Cup semis

12/12/2012









Ahly produce a spirited display but exit the Club World Cup following a 1-0 defeat by Brazil’s Corinthians on Wednesday.








A brave Ahly side failed to reach the Club World Cup final despite giving the more fancied Corinthians a hard time during Wednesday’s semi-final at the Toyota Stadium in Japan.

Peruvian striker Paolo Guerrero made the most of a rare goal-scoring opportunity for the Brazilian outfit to score the winner after 30 minutes and set up a possible clash against European champions Chelsea, who face Mexico’s Monterrey in the other semi-final on Thursday.

Ahly were unlucky not to level the score after the break as Corinthians survived an onslaught.

The Egyptian giants were inspired by a superb display from veteran playmaker Mohamed Abou-Treika, who was introduced after the break to revitalize an unproductive frontline that was let down by too many mis-placed passes in the first half.

Ahly, who finished third in the 2006 Club World Cup, will face either Monterrey or Chelsea in the third-place playoff on Sunday.

Lively opening

Both sides wasted one clear-cut chance apiece in a lively opening.

A volley by Corinthians forward Douglas narrowly missed the target after 10 minutes and Ahly replied at the other end one minute later, with defensive midfielder Rami Rabia, who replaced injured skipper Hossam Ghaly, sending a header just wide following a free-kick.

Cautious Ahly then sat back, successfully closing down spaces and restricting a physical Corinthians side to some tame efforts, which were denied by timely interceptions from keeper Sherif Ekramy.

However, a defensive lapse allowed Corinthians to take the lead after 30 minutes when Guerrero escaped the attention of marker Wael Gomaa at the far post to neatly head a left-wing cross past Ekramy and into the far corner.

Inaccurate passes hampered Ahly’s efforts to equalise before the break as Corinthians held firm.

Midfield maestro

Midfield maestro Abou-Treika solved that problem, however, when he replaced the ineffective Abdallah El-Saied in the second half.

His all-round display and defence-splitting passes gave Ahly the upper hand in a period they dominated, with Corinthians defending in numbers to keep their advantage intact.

One of his trademark through balls released right-back Ahmed Fathi six minutes past the hour mark but the latter’s subsequent shot from a tight angle hit the side netting.

Another long ball from Abou-Treika found the unmarked El-Sayed Hamdi, who failed to control the ball with the goal at his mercy as another golden opportunity went begging.

Ahly had to make an unscripted substitution when Ekramy sustained a hamstring injury to make way for stand-in guardian Mahmoud Aboul-Saoud, but it had little impact as Corinthians seemed content to sit back and defend their slender lead.

They laid siege to Corinthians area in the latter stages but could only send some long-range shots which did not trouble the keeper as the Brazilians held out for a hard-fought win.

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L A Galaxy MLS-Champions-Locker-Celebration-2012

HIGHLIGHTS OF FIFA CLUB WORLD CUP JAPAN 2012

Ahly skipper Ghaly to be sidelined for months due to injury at FIFA CLUB WORLD CUP

9/12/2012





Hossam Ghaly set to spend up to six months on the bench after sustaining a knee injury during Saturday's Club World Cup win over Sanfrecce Hiroshima





Ahly skipper Hossam Ghaly has sustained a rupture in his anterior knee ligament and will therefore be out of action indefinitely, the Cairo giants announced Sunday.

The veteran midfielder was injured just before half-time during his side's 2-1 win over Sanfrecce Hiroshima in a Club World Cup match on Sunday.

"Ghaly is suffering from a torn interior knee ligament. We will determine the place and date of the surgery in the coming days," Ahly doctor Ihab Aly was quoted as saying by the club's official website.

"Ghaly is the team's skipper and one of the club’s icons. We will offer him all the support he needs," he added.

Ghaly is expected to be sidelined for six months at least as a result of the injury, which comes as a blow to both Ahly and Egypt’s national team, which is currently bracing for a 2014 World Cup qualifier against Zimbabwe next march.

"I'm happy with Ahly's win and performance. This will help them a lot in the upcoming match," the Pharaohs' American coach Bob Bradley was quoted as saying by Ahram Sport.

"I'm saddened by Ghaly’s injury, however, as he plays a major role in the team – and in Egypt also," Bradley added.

Cairo giants Ahly are set for a clash against Brazilian outfit the Corinthians in an upcoming Club World Cup semi-final after claiming a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Japan's Sanfrecce Hiroshima.

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Abou-Treika lifts Ahly to Club World Cup semis

Aboutrika celebrates after scoring against Hiroshima

Dec 9/2012




Ahly beat Japan’s Sanfrecce Hiroshima 2-1 to set up a clash against Brazilian outfit Corinthians in the Club World Cup semi-final


Playmaker Mohamed Abou-Treika scored in the second half as Ahly claimed a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Japan’s Sanfrecce Hiroshima to qualify for the Club World Cup semi-final on Sunday.

Forward El-Sayed Hamdi put Ahly ahead on the quarter-hour mark but Hisato Sato brought the hosts level on 31 minutes amid snowfall at the Toyota Stadium.

Abou-Treika, who started on the bench, netted a trademark poacher’s goal 11 minutes after the restart and Ahly survived a late Hiroshima onslaught, thanks to a series of impressive saves from keeper Sherif Ekramy, to set up a semi-final clash with Brazil’s Corinthians.

The 34-year-old took his tally to four goals in the tournament’s history, on level with top scorers Lionel Messi and Brazilian striker Denilson.

Intricate passes

Ahly had the upper hand in the early stages, thanks to a series of intricate passes that unsettled Hiroshima’s backline.

They could have opened the scoring after three minutes when forward  ‘Gedo’ ran onto a neat long ball but, under a pressure from a defender, he dragged his shot just wide.

Hiroshima keeper Shusaku Nishikawa sustained a facial injury after colliding with Gedo, making way for Takuya Masuda for an early substitution.

Ahly were also forced to make an unscripted substitution before the break after central midfielder Hossam Ghaly picked up an injury. He was replaced by Abou-Treika.

The Red Devils deservedly went ahead after 15 minutes when right-back Ahmed Fathi exchanged passes with Abdallah El-Saied on the right, ran to the byline and pulled the ball back to Hamdi for an easy tap-in.

Ahly eased off after taking the lead and their static defence was exposed on several occasions as Hiroshima made the most of their pace.   

Goalkeeper Sherif Ekramy dived at the feet of the unmarked Hiroki Mizumoto to thwart a clear-cut chance in the 25th minute but he was powerless to prevent Hiroshima from levelling the score six minutes later.

Ahly’s defence poorly cleared a corner, allowing skipper Hisato Sato to latch onto a flick-on at the far post and fire a low shot in off the legs of Ekramy.

Left-sided duo Ahmed Shedid and Walid Soliman were constantly outpaced by Hiroshima’s lively winger Mihael Mikic, who made life difficult for them before the break.

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Egypt’s Ahly seek refuge in Club World Cup

Ahly players warm up during the training session in Toyota, Saturday, Dec. 8, 2012 (Photo: AP)

Egypt’s most successful club begin their Club World Cup campaign against Japan’s Sanfrecce Hiroshima on Sunday at 12:30 Cairo local time (10:30 GMT)

The cause of a traumatic Ahly, who are still living in the shadow of the Port Said disaster, was not helped by a political turmoil back home as they open their Club World Cup campaign in Japan on Sunday.

The Red Devils used to dominate headlines during their previous three participations at the FIFA competition but their fourth appearance is overshadowed by an impasse in Egypt that saw supporters and opponents of President Mohamed Morsi engage in deadly clashes.

A controversial decree issued by Morsi last month, which shields his decisions from judicial review, sparked incessant protests that turned ugly when the president’s supporters confronted their foes in front of the presidential palace.

At least seven were killed and hundreds injured, reminding Ahly that a difficult year is not over yet. In February, dozens of their supporters died following a pitch invasion by the home Masry supporters in an ill-tempered Egyptian Premier League in coastal city Port Said.

Ahly lifted some of the gloom when they won the African Champions League following a 3-2 aggregate victory over Tunisia’s Esperance, extending their record to seven continental triumphs to take another shot at the Club World Cup.

They face Japan’s Sanfrecce Hiroshima on Sunday with an eye on a possible semi-final clash against Copa Libertadores winners Corinthians of Brazil.

“I’m worried over the concentration of my players because of what’s going on in Egypt. The thoughts of most of the players are filled with what’s happening, and they regularly want to contact their relatives to make sure they are safe,” Ahly coach Hossam El-Badry said.

“We are trying to turn all the problems into motivations to make a new achievement. My experience in the past three World Cup appearances [as assistant coach]  is a big asset,” he added.

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LA Galaxy defeat Dynamo in MLS Cup 3 - 1

Photo by Rico Ramirez www.soccerpics.net

12/3/2012






Landon Donovan and Robbie Keane sent David Beckham off a winner in his final MLS game as Los Angeles won its second consecutive MLS Cup with a 3-1 victory over Houston at the Home Depot Center.

Donovan and Keane scored second half penalties to complete the Galaxy comeback and ensure Beckham left the Galaxy on a winning note. Houston forward Calen Carr scored the opener shortly before halftime, but Omar Gonzalez equalized with a header in the 61st minute before Donovan scored the decisive penalty four minutes later.

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Photo by Rico Ramires www.soccerpics.net

Photo by Rico Ramirez www.soccerpics.net

Photo by Rico Ramirez www.soccerpics.net

Gedo: I want to play Chelsea in the final

5 Dec 2012












Better known as Gedo, Mohamed Nagy has shown that Al-Ahly SC’s decision to doggedly track down his signature was a wise one. In the two years since he burst on to the international scene by helping Egypt land the 2010 CAF Africa Cup of Nations in Angola, the 28-year-old forward has become a true star for the Red Devils.

He underlined his worth to the Egyptian side by scoring five crucial goals in their triumphant 2012 CAF Champions League campaign, including a hat-trick in the semi-final defeat of Nigeria’s Sunshine Stars and his side’s all-important opener in the second leg of the final against Esperance of Tunisia.

That success earned them a place at the FIFA Club World Cup Japan 2012. 

Gedo's chat with FIFA.com

Just before jetting off to the Far East, Gedo sat down for a chat with FIFA.com and looked ahead to his first appearance in the competition and his club’s fourth overall.

FIFA.com: It’s been a traumatic year for Al-Ahly, hasn’t it?
Gedo: Yes, it’s been a testing season and the Port Said tragedy, where 72 supporters lost their lives, was very difficult to come to terms with. It affected me personally and we really didn’t feel like playing football anymore. The only thing that got us going again was the promise we made to the families of the martyrs to win the Champions League in their honour.

Do you think that your CAF Champions League win went some way to easing their pain?
I hope so, though nothing can make up for the loss of a son. I hope us winning that title helped a little for them. It’s the least we could have done for them.

Let’s talk about the final. The first leg at the Borg Al Arab ended in a 1-1 draw. How did you feel about your chances of winning the return in Tunis?
We were more focused than ever going into the second leg and our only aim was to win the title. They held us to a draw at home, for sure, but in a way that helped us because it meant we had nothing to lose. We gave it everything and I think we played one of the best games in Al-Ahly’s history. We really deserved the win.


Your goals proved vital all the way through the competition, though you failed to get on the scoresheet in the first leg of the final. Did you think you’d make up for it in Rades in the return?
Obviously I’m looking to score in every game I play. It was a tough game for us, but my team-mates stepped it up a level. I’d never have scored that goal without their help. I put the ball in the back of the net, but it was the whole team that made possible.

Did you feel nervous at all about partnering El Sayed Hamdi in attack against Esperance?
Not at all. He’s one of those guys I love playing with and we had a perfect understanding in the semi-final against Sunshine Stars. He’s a talented player with a lot of skill. He laid on the pass for the goal I scored in Rades and he got our equaliser in the first leg at Borg Al Arab. I hope our partnership will be just as productive in Japan, if not more so.

What was the trickiest moment of your Champions League campaign and who was the toughest team you faced?
Stade Malien caused us lots of problems. There was a lot of political instability and insecurity there when we went over for the first leg, and in the return game in Egypt we fell a goal behind, which meant we had to score three to go through. Aboutrika turned the tie around with a miracle hat-trick, scoring twice in the last ten minutes.

Quite a few of your team-mates, such as Mohamed Aboutrika, Mohamed Barakat, Wael Gomaa and Emad Moteab, have already played in a FIFA Club World Cup in Japan. Which new star will Al-Ahly be unveiling to the world this year?
The team’s packed with great players and it’s not easy to pick one out. All I know is we can go far and I can guarantee the Japanese fans that we’ll be putting on a show.

Al-Ahly have played in three FIFA Club World Cups to date, though this is your first time. What are you expecting from the competition? Are there any teams and players you’re looking forward to coming up against?
I’m delighted to be here and play in my first FIFA competition. I hope we can reach the final and take on Chelsea and [Fernando] Torres, who’s one of my favourite players.

Rumour has it you might be leaving Al-Ahly. Is there any truth in that?
I’ve received offers from a few clubs, but I don’t think this is the right time to be talking about that. We need to wait until we get back from Japan to see if the Egyptian championship is going to start up again. If it doesn’t, I’ll have to leave the club. 

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Egyptkora with Dominic Kinnear in LA
كاميرا كرة مصر في لوس انجلوس مع المدير الفني هيوستن ديناموس 

Egyptkora with  Bruce Arena
كاميرا كرة مصر في لوس انجلوس مع المدير الفني لا جالكسي

Egyptkora with  David Beckham
كاميرا كرة مصر في لوس انجلوس مع
ديفيد بيكهام

FIFA CLUB WORLD CUP TEAMS

On 10 November, Ulsan Hyundai won the AFC Champions League with a 3-0 victory over Al Ahly (SA) and will represent Asia at the FIFA Club World Cup Japan 2012.

Mexican sides Santos Laguna and Monterrey met in the two-legged final of the CONCACAF Champions League on 18 and 25 April 2012. Monterrey won 3-2 on aggregate and will represent North, Central America and the Caribbean at the FIFA Club World Cup Japan 2012.

The final of the CAF Champions League was won by Al Ahly of Egypt, who beat Esperance over two legs to book their place in the FIFA Club World Cup.

The final of the OFC O-League took place over two legs on 29 April and 12 May between New Zealand’s Auckland City and Tahiti’s AS Tefana, with Auckland winning 3-1 on aggregate to represent Oceania at the FIFA Club World Cup Japan 2012.

Chelsea won the UEFA Champions League on 19 May 2012 in Munich, Germany. As the winner, they will represent Europe at the FIFA Club World Cup Japan 2012.

On 4 July, Corinthians won the Copa Libertadores and were crowned champions of South America. They will represent the continent at the FIFA Club World Cup Japan 2012.

The champions of Japan’s J-League – the country’s top domestic competition – will represent the host nation at the FIFA Club World Cup Japan 2012.

Al Ahly is Ready for the FIFA Club Cup 2012 JAPAN

Al Ahly stunned Esperance Sportive de Tunis 2-1 (3-2 on aggregate) in Tunisia on Saturday to win a record-breaking seventh CAF Champions League and claim a place in December’s prestigious FIFA Club World Cup. The result was similar to Ahly’s 2006 title when they drew 1-1 at home in the first leg against Tunisia’s CS Sfaxien and won away in the second leg.

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Ahly coach praises players for Champions League victory

Egypt's Ahli Players celebrate winning their African Champions League (CAF)

Ahly coach Hossam El-Badry has expressed his delight at winning the 2012 CAF Champions League title after beating Esperance de Tunis on Saturday.

"I'm happy to lift the cup,  especially because it took place outside Egypt here in Tunisia," El-Badry told reporters after the game.

"I hoped to win the trophy here in Tunisia because I have a great history with this stadium," he added.

A goal from forward Mohamed Nagy ‘Gedo’ and a superb piece of skill from Walid Soliman helped the Cairo giants defy the odds to win a record-extending seventh Champions League title after beating Esperance 2-1 in Tunis for a 3-2 aggregate victory on Saturday.

Defending champions Esperance were favourites to retain their title after holding Ahly to a 1-1 draw in Alexandria two weeks ago but they were outplayed.

"I thank my players for their efforts over the past months despite the Egyptian Premier League suspension.

"We wanted this trophy so much to offer it to the families and souls of the Port Said martyrs," the 52-year-old said.

Ahly dominated Esperance throughout the game and silenced around 35,000 fans at the Rades Stadium.

"Personally I enjoyed the game, especially in the first half when Ahly players were on top form.

"I don't pay attention to criticism, my response always comes on the pitch as I have confidence in my players," El-Badry said.

El-Badry also rubbished reports that Ahly icon Mohamed Abou-Treika would retire from football after the final.

"I held a meeting with Abou-Treika and he said he would not be retiring," El-Badry said.

Egypt’s most successful club, Ahly, will set a world record when they make a fourth appearance at the FIFA Club World Cup next month after snatching the CAF Champions League title.

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Belgium’s Lierse give Egyptian coach Ramzy winning start

Egyptian coach Hany Ramzy (Photo: Reuters)

Hany Ramzy enjoys a winning debut in charge of Belgian side Lierse

Belgian side Lierse gave Egyptian coach Hany Ramzy a winning start after beating Gent 2-0 in the domestic league on Saturday.

A brace from Kostadin  Hazurov on 20 and 68 minutes handed Lierse all three points, five days after they appointed former Egypt defender Ramzy as their new boss.

It is Ramzy’s first coaching experience away from home after he managed Egyptian side ENPPI and the national Olympic team.

Lierse lie 13th in the 16-team table on 16 points, just one above the relegation zone.

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Ruthless Ahly win Champions League in Tunisia

17/11/2012


Ahly lift their seventh Champions League title after claiming a deserved 2-1 victory at Tunisia’s Esperance in an exciting final on Saturday

A mesmerizing Ahly side defied the odds to win a record-extending seventh Champions League title after beating Tunisia’s Esperance 2-1 in Tunis for a 3-2 aggregate victory on Saturday.

Defending champions Esperance were deemed favourites to retain their title after holding Ahly to a 1-1 draw in Alexandria two weeks ago but they were outplayed by the ruthless Cairo giants. Forward Mohamed Nagy ‘Gedo’, who enjoyed a new lease of life under coach Hossam El-Badry, gave Ahly a deserved lead two minutes before the break with a neat finish after some fine individual work from deep-lying forward El-Sayed Hamdi.

A superb piece of skill saw Walid Soliman extend the gap just past the hour mark, silencing around 35,000 fans at Rades Stadium and leaving Esperance with an uphill climb as they needed three goals to overturn the deficit.

Esperance’s Cameroonian striker Yannick N'Djeng pulled one back with five minutes remaining but it was too little, too late.

The visitors could have added a third in the dying minutes but substitute Mohamed Abou-Treika had a penalty saved by Esperance keeper Moez Ben Cherifia.

Ahly ended a difficult year on a high, having had to deal with a series of problems including a tense relationship with their own hardcore fans, who rebuked their players for agreeing to take part in domestic games following Port Said’s February tragedy.

Egypt’s worst-ever football disaster left over 70 Ahly fans killed after a crowd riot in an ill-tempered Egyptian Premier League game against Masry.

Ahly players, who managed to overcome the adverse effects of lack of competitive football due to the ongoing football stoppage in Egypt, said before Saturday’s final they were eager to add to their haul of six Champions League titles to honour the victims.

Both teams also observed a minute of silence before kick off after more than 40 children were killed in a fatal collision between a train and a kindergarten school bus in Upper Egypt Saturday morning.

Egypt’s most successful club will set a world record when they make a fourth appearance at the FIFA Club World Cup next month while combative defender Wael Gomaa has become the only player in the continent to win five Champions League titles, having taken part in the team’s 2001, 2005, 2006 and 2008 winning campaigns.

Tactical change

Ahly boss Hossam El-Badry opted to include Hamdi, who scored the precious goal which salvaged the first-leg draw, in his starting line-up instead of veteran playmaker Abou-Treika and the change paid off, with the 28-year-old wreaking havoc upfront.

Displaying their trademark intricate passing game, Ahly had the better of the early exchanges as Esperance opted for a cautious approach to safeguard their first-leg advantage.

The energetic Ahly forwards poured forward en masse every time Esperance defenders held the ball, forcing their opponents to give away possession far too easily.

However, the hosts’ rearguard still looked tight, with their defenders having the upper hand in every aerial challenge.

Hamdi forced a save from Esperance keeper Moez Ben Cherifia with a low shot early in the game and Saied squandered a golden opportunity to break the deadlock after 33 minutes when he fired high over the bar from the edge of the area after a lay-off from winger Soliman.

Esperance were restricted to two tame breakaway efforts that did not trouble Ahly keeper Sherif Ekramy.

The Red Devils opened the scoring two minutes before the break when Hamdi outpaced Esperance’s Walid Hichri down the left, running to the byline before pulling the ball back for the unmarked Gedo to side-foot home.

Coup de grace

In the second half, Ahly continued from where they left off in the first, launching a barrage of attacks that resulted in another goal from Soliman that provided the coup de grace.

On 61 minutes, a long defensive clearance fell to Soliman, who superbly lifted the ball over challenger Mohamed Ben Mansour to break clear and send a precise shot into the bottom corner.

Bearing in mind that they have almost clinched the title, Ahly took their foot off the pedal to allow Esperance to embark on some swift counter attacks.

The burly N'Djeng was their best performer, with his physical prowess keeping opposing defenders on their toes.

He rattled the woodwork with a powerful drive in the 64th minute but made amends five minutes from time when he notched home from close range after a low cross from the right.

Ahly, who wasted a late penalty after Ben Cherifia made a clumsy challenge on Mauritanian striker Dominique Da Silva, held on for a memorable triumph that resembled their 2006 win over Sfaxien at the same stadium.

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The "obnoxious", The "bunch of jokes" and The "boring footballers"
Win at LA 1-0 in first leg of Western Conference semifinals

11/4/2012


San Jose's Victor Bernardez scored from a long-range free kick deep into stoppage time to give the Earthquakes a 1-0 win at Los Angeles Galaxy on Sunday in the opening leg of their MLS Western Conference semifinal series.


Now the teams play Wednesday night in Santa Clara, where the series will be determined on total goals in both games.


After the teams' 2-2 tie on October 21, Galaxy defender Omar Gonzalez called the Quakes "a bunch of jokes" who play an "obnoxious" style.  Midfielder Marcelo Sarvas added that the S J plays "some kind of boring football."

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Ahly strike late to secure home draw with Esperance in final

A late strike by El-Sayed Hamdi rescues Ahly from a stunning home defeat by Esperance in the first-leg of the African Champions League final on Sunday



Substitute El-Sayed Hamdi struck with three minutes remaining as Ahly salvaged a 1-1 draw at home to title holders Esperance to keep alive their hopes of winning the African Champions League title.

Esperance seemed on a course for a famous win in Sunday’s final first-leg in Alexandria when Walid Hichri capitalized on a blunder from Ahly keeper Sherif Ekramy to score against the run of play four minutes after the restart.

The visitors had to thank impressive goalkeeper Moez Ben Cherifia for pulling off a string of saves to thwart Ahly, who suffered from a lack of cutting edge, on several occasions.

However, he was powerless to stop Ahly from claiming a late equalizer when Hamdi, who was introduced in the second half, rifled home an unstoppable shot from inside the area to spark wild celebrations in the stands.

Esperance will still be content with a draw that would make them favourites to retain their title when they host Ahly in the second leg on 17 November.

Ahly will be looking to replicate their remarkable victory over Tunisia’s Sfaxien in 2006 when the first leg ended in a 1-1 draw in Cairo before Mohamed Abou-Treika scored a last-gasp goal in the return to hand his side a 2-1 aggregate win.

Fan presence

Ahly played before around 20,000 fans for the first time since February’s Port Said disaster, which prompted Egyptian authorities to impose a crowd ban due to lingering security concerns.

Ahly’s hardcore supporters (Ultras Ahlawy) did not attend the match as they await a court verdict over the notorious Port Said case but they still managed to enter the Borg El-Arab stadium before kick-off to display their usual ‘tifo’, a term used to describe a fan spectacle before a match or after a goal is scored.

The many placards they left in the stands bore the sentence “74 martyrs in paradise” in reference to the Ahly fans who were killed after an ugly pitch invasion by Masry supporters following an end of an Egyptian Premier League on 1 February.

The Red Devils, who last won Africa’s premier club competition in 2008, totally dominated the first half as Esperance deployed a cautious strategy to contain a wave of Ahly attacks.

Ben Cherifia was Esperance’s best performer, palming several long-range shots from Ahly forwards and making some timely interceptions that prevented the hosts from creating potential goal-scoring opportunities.

Veteran playmaker Mohamed Abou-Treika, playing his first game after ending a two-month suspension imposed on him by the club for skipping September’s Super Cup game against ENPPI, squandered Ahly’s best chance before the break.

Right-back Ahmed Fathi ran down the right flank after 33 minutes and pulled the ball back from the byline to the unmarked Abou-Treika, who fired high over the bar.  

Esperance take Ahly by surprise

Esperance made the most of Ahly’s poor defending in set pieces to notch up a surprising goal on 49 minutes and silence the home crowd.

Hichri sneaked in to rise unopposed and cut ahead of the motionless Ekramy, heading home a corner from the right and leaving Ahly with a mountain to climb.

Ahly pushed forward in a bid to equalise but were restricted to some tame shots for long periods, with their trademark attacking manoeuvres nowhere to be seen.

Even when they had the chance to penetrate a resolute defence, their wastefulness let them down. Abou-Treika squandered another gilt-edged opportunity in the 73rd minute when his close-range effort from a low Walid Soliman cross was blocked by Ben Cherifia.

Hamdi finally made their pressure count three minutes from time when Fathi slipped a defence-splitting ball into his path to send a powerful drive that left the otherwise outstanding Ben Cherifia with no chance.

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Treika-inspired Ahly seek revenge against Esperance in anticipated final

3/11/2012




Ahly, welcoming back inspirational playmaker Mohamed Abou-Treika, host Esperance on Sunday (17:00 GMT) in the first leg of the African Champions League final


Ahly’s inspirational playmaker Mohamed Abou-Treika will be looking to haunt Tunisians once again when his side host title holders Esperance in Sunday’s African Champions League final first-leg, an anticipated fixture between the bitter foes.

Abou-Treika’s memorable last-gasp winner against Sfaxien in 2006, which gave Ahly a remarkable Champions League triumph, is still fresh in the memory of the Red Devils’ faithful who will have the chance to watch their team from the stands for the first time since February’s Port Said disaster.

The veteran schemer’s two-month suspension ends in a timely manner as Ahly seek to exact revenge over an Esperance side who knocked them out of the previous two editions of Africa’s elite club competition.

Esperance, who will make their third consecutive appearance in the Champions League final, beat Ahly on the away-goal rule following a controversial 2-2 aggregate draw in the semis in 2010 before eliminating them from the group stage last year.

Abou-Treika was banned by Ahly for skipping an Egypt Super Cup game against ENPPI in September to stand by die-hard fans (Ultras Ahlawy), who demanded that their team withdraw from all domestic competitions until the perpetrators of Port Said’s disaster, which left over 70 supporters dead, are brought to justice.

“I’m very happy with the support I received from coach Hossam El-Badry during that (suspension) period,” Abou-Treika, a cult figure among Ahly’s fans, told reporters last week.

“He stood by me and I have to thank him for the efforts he exerted for me and the team. We are fully ready for the Champions League final, we are focused on fulfilling the dream of winning the title.”

Up to 15,000 Ahly supporters are allowed to attend the match at Alexandria’s Egyptian Army Stadium in Borg El-Arab district after authorities had partially lifted a crowd ban that has been in place since the country’s worst football tragedy.

However, members of Ultras Ahlawy, who are consistently acclaimed for creating feverish atmosphere inside stadiums but vilified for rioting and some off-pitch troubles, are unlikely to show up, having said they would boycott any football matches until a verdict is delivered in the notorious Port Said saga.

Mind games

The build-up to the game witnessed an exchange of words between both sides, spicing up a potential heated encounter between the North African rivals.

Ahly coach El-Badry said he was worried over possible refereeing mistakes in the final, recalling an infamous goal by former Esperance striker Michael Eneramo in the 2010 semi-final second leg.

The Nigerian frontman used his arm to score an illegitimate goal that grabbed headlines and incurred the wrath of El-Badry, who was in charge of Ahly at the time before making way for Portuguese manager Manuel Jose.

El-Badry further escalated tensions before Sunday’s final after implying that the Tunisians could receive a favourable treatment from the referee because Tunisian Tarek Bouchamaoui is in charge of CAF’s refereeing committee.

Esperance football director Riadh Bennour accused the 52-year-old of playing mind games.

“Everyone talked about the Eneramo incident at the time. My worry over refereeing does not mean that I’m hurling accusations against anybody,” El-Badry said.

“Every team must defend its rights. And our right is to have a fair referee.”

Esperance have suffered a blow few days before the match after playmaker Youssef Msakni was ruled out of the game after undergoing an emergency appendectomy on Thursday.

Msakni, who provides much of Esperance’s spark, will be joined on the sidelines by his brother Iheb, leaving Cameroon’s combative striker Joseph Yannick Ndjeng as the only reliable frontman at the disposal of coach Nabil Maaloul.

An almost full-strength Ahly will only miss left-back Sayed Moawad, who sustained a foot injury.

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Real Madrid hit five to stay in title shake-up 

Gonzalo Higuain and Cristiano Ronaldo both scored twice as Real Madrid cruised to a 5-0 victory at Mallorca on Sunday to keep up the pressure at the top of La Liga.

Jose Callejon got the fifth as Real remained in fourth position, a point behind Malaga in third, and eight behind leaders Barcelona, who crushed Rayo Vallecano 5-0 on Saturday, and second-placed Atletico Madrid.

Ronaldo has now scored in eight consecutive games for Madrid -- 14 goals in total and 11 in the league.

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho returned Higuain to the starting line-up after favouring Karim Benzema in Wednesday's 2-1 Champions League defeat at Borussia Dortmund.

The Argentinian striker did not take long to repay that faith when he pounced on a defensive error by Mallorca's Anderson Conceicao to hit the opener after only seven minutes.

Luka Modric also returned to the starting eleven, replacing the injured Sami Khedira, and he was involved in much of Madrid's better play.

Mallorca's best chance of the first period fell to Emilio N'Sue who almost surprised Iker Casillas from long range before Ronaldo doubled the lead on 21 minutes.

The Portuguese star was on hand to finish a sweeping move that saw the ball switch from left to right, from Mesut Ozil to Angel Di Maria, passing through Higuain before Ronaldo finished calmly.

Madrid continued to control proceedings in the second period restricting the home team's attacking options with clever possession play.

As Mallorca grew more frustrated space began to appear and Ronaldo took advantage to carve open the home defence and gift Higuain his second of the evening and sixth league goal of the season on 69 minutes.

Three minutes later Higuain was the provider for Ronaldo, when both needed only one touch to turn a counter-attack into Madrid's fourth.

Substitute Callejon added the final goal from close range in the last minute.

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Wondoloski did it!

San Jose forward Chris Wondolowski has scored his 27th goal of the season, tying the MLS single-season record set by Roy Lassiter of Tampa Bay in 1996.

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Egyptian players abroad, weekend action 

Friday 26 October

Amr Zaki (Elazigspor)
The striker missed the 1-1 Turkish league draw with Eskisehirspor due to administrative problems.

Saturday 27 October

Adam El Abd (Brighton)
16:00 Blackpool vs. Brighton & Hove A.

Ahmed Hossam “Mido” (Barnsley)
16:00 Barnsley vs. Nottingham F.

Ahmed Elmohamady (Hull City)
18:20 Bristol City vs. Hull City

Ahmed Samir Farag (Lierse)
20:00 KV Mechelen vs. Lierse

Ahmed Said “Occa” (Lierse)
20:00 KV Mechelen vs. Lierse

Mohamed “Dodi” Elgabas (Lierse)
20:00 KV Mechelen vs. Lierse

Sunday 28 October

Mahmoud Abdel-Razek "Shikabala" (Al-Wasl)
Ahmed Hegazy: (Fiorentina)
16:00 Fiorentina vs. Lazio

16:25 Al-Wasl vs. AlDhafra

Mohamed Salah: (Basel)
17:00 Zurich vs. Basel

Monday 29 October

Mohamed Zidan (Bani Yas, UAE)
16:30 Bani Yas vs. Dabba AlFujairah

Follow us for more updates on Egyptian players playing abroad

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Earthquakes soccer fans set world record

PHOTO BY RICO RAMIREZ

Refereed by officials with the authoritative Guinness World Records, exactly 6,256 people, most of them ordinary Quakes fans, surpassed the previous groundbreaking high mark of 4,532, set in India in 2007. Air cannons shot a cloud of blue and white confetti over the crowd when the record was announced, prompting jubilant Quakes fans to cheer and wave their shovels in victory.

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PHOTO BY RICO RAMIREZ

PHOTO BY RICO RAMIREZ

PHOTO BY RICO RAMIREZ

Wondolowski pulls within one of record and Earthquakes tie Galaxy
Oct 21,2012

The San Jose Earthquake's Chris Wondolowski moved one step closer in history in the 73rd minute when he scored the 2nd goal for the quakes. Giving himself  26 on the season and pulling him within 1 of Roy Lassiter's  record. As it is, Wondolowski pulled even with Stern John and Mamadou Diallo for the second-highest total in history.

He will get one more chance when the Quakes play the last regular-season game at Portland. If Wondolowski gets one goal he will tie the record but if he scores 2 he will make history by achieving a new record. 

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Ahly eclipse Sunshine Stars to reach CL final
Oct 21,2012

A first-half goal by forward Mohamed ‘Gedo’ Nagy helped an otherwise wasteful Ahly side to a 1-0 home victory over Nigeria’s Sunshine Stars, lifting the Egyptian club to the African Champions League final on Sunday.

The Cairo giants, who wasted the chance to put the result beyond doubt on a handful of occasions, overcame the tournament debutants with a 4-3 aggregate victory after holding them to a thrilling 3-3 first-leg draw in Nigeria.

Gedo, who stole the limelight with an impressive performance, was unlucky not to add to his tally after seeing two headers crash off the bar either side of the interval.

Ahly have set up a mouth-watering two-legged clash against holders Esperance of Tunisia, who defeated TP Mazembe of the Democratic Republic of Congo 1-0 on Saturday to qualify for their third consecutive final.

The Red Devils are eyeing a record-extending seventh Champions League title, while Esperance are seeking their third continental title.

Sunday’s game took place at a newly-built stadium in Cairo behind closed doors due to lingering security concerns. It remains to be seen whether Ahly fans will be allowed to attend the Esperance game.

Tense escalation

A tense build-up to the game saw many Egyptian Premier League and second-division players lay siege to the hotel in which the Sunshine Stars were staying, only a few hours before kick-off.

They demanded that authorities resume the domestic football stoppage in a protest that forced a 30-minute delay of the match.    

Ahly totally dominated the first half, outplaying their tame opponents and exploiting the huge gaps in the latter's defence on numerous occasions.

Gedo, who is gradually regaining the form that saw him score five goals in Egypt’s 2010 African Nations Cup triumph, was their most potent weapon, keeping Sunshine defenders on their toes with an energetic and all-round display.

His strike partner, El-Sayed Hamdi, wasted Ahly’s first chance after 19 minutes when he fired wide with the goal at his mercy after Hossam Ghaly headed the ball into his path.

Four minutes later, Gedo failed to drive the ball home on the rebound after Hamdi’s initial effort was parried by the keeper – but he made amends at the 28th minute to put Ahly in front.

He neatly exchanged passes with the lively Ghaly to break clear and send a right-foot shot that deflected off a defender and went in at the near post from a tight angle.

The 25-year-old had two free headers denied by the bar as Ahly mounted pressure.

The second half marked the return of Ahly striker Emad Meteb, who was sidelined for over a month after undergoing surgery to remove kidney stones.

He had little time to make an impact as the hosts eased off, allowing Sunshine Stars to create some chances in the latter stages, including a powerful shot from Tamen Medran that struck the woodwork in the 73rd minute

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Cautious Ahly eye ninth appearance in Champions League final
Oct 20,2012

Ahly will be firm favourites to reach the Champions League final when they host Nigeria’s Sunshine Stars on Sunday but they still sounded a cautious note about their prospects of overcoming the tournament debutants.

A 3-3 first-leg draw in Nigeria, where Ahly displayed an intricate passing game but struggled at the back to allow Sunshine Stars to keep their hopes alive, put the Red Devils on the verge of making their ninth appearance in the final of Africa’s elite club competition.

Ahly are the record winners with six titles under their belt, having lost twice in the final in 1983 and 2007.

They will face defending champions Esperance, who beat TP Mazembe 1-0 on aggregate, in a two-legged finale next month if they beat Sunshine Stars.

“Sunshine Stars is a tough team  and they are not an easy team to play against. They haven’t lost hope yet and they will fight to the end,” Ahly coach Hossam El-Badry said in an interview with CAFonline.com.

“I expect them to attack from the start as draw is not in their favor, so we'll keep an eye on our defence while we try to score early and put the game beyond them.

“With so much at stake it is not going to be easy for both teams but one thing guaranteed is that it will be a battle. The game is going to be a tough one, and we'll do our best to win.”

Ahly, who will host Sunshine Stars at a new stadium built by the Egyptian army in Cairo, will be once again deprived of their fans as lingering security concerns still hang over the football-mad country.

The Red Devils’ enthusiastic supporters always play an instrumental role in the success of Africa’s most decorated club but their absence on Sunday might be a blessing in disguise.

Ahly’s players are experiencing a tense relationship with die-hard fans Ultras Ahlawy, who attacked their own players and board of directors on numerous occasions in an unprecedented outpouring of anger from the usually supportive faithful.

Ultras Ahlawy want their team to abstain from taking part in any domestic game until the perpetrators of Port Said’s soccer tragedy, which left over 70 fans killed last February, are brought to justice - a demand that fell on deaf ears as Ahly beat ENPPI in a highly-controversial Super Cup game last month.

Ahly are still missing veteran playmaker Mohamed Abou-Treika as he serves a two-month suspension imposed by the club after he skipped the ENPPI game in a sign of solidarity with Ultras Ahlawy.

However, the Ahly icon is likely to be available for the Champions League final if the team overcome Sunshine Stars.

Left-back Sayed Moawad is ruled out due to injury while winger Walid Soliman and Ivorian striker Oussou Konan are doubtful after picking up knocks lately.

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Sunshine Stars deny Ahly a win in Nigeria  3-3

Ahly close on Champions League final after thrilling draw in Nigeria

Sunshine Stars deny Ahly a win in Nigeria but the Egyptians are favourites to reach the Champions League final after a 3-3 draw on Saturday
Sunshine Stars scored a late goal to salvage a thrilling 3-3 draw with Ahly in Nigeria but the result leaves the Egyptian giants as overwhelming favorites to reach the African Champions League final.
The visitors looked on course for a comfortable win when attacking duo Mohamed Nagy ‘Gedo’ and El-Sayed Hamdi put them 2-0 up after 30 minutes.
Medrano Tamen pulled one back shortly after with a superb strike and Olurundare Dele leveled the score on 73 minutes after converting a penalty. In breathtaking moments, Gedo restored Ahly’s lead one minute later but the Red Devils failed to secure a famous win away from home.
An impressive free-kick from Osasco Precious with six minutes remaining kept alive the hopes of Champions League debutants Sunshine Stars to cause an upset and reach the final.
The Nigerians need to win in a fortnight in Cairo or secure a draw with a higher scoreline than 3-3 to go through. Ahly, the record winners with six titles under their belt, are eyeing their first triumph since 2008.
Title holders Esperance of Tunisia face TP Mazembe of the DR Congo in the other semi-final on Sunday.

Constant menace

Ahly had the better of the early exchanges, moving the ball around smoothly and causing constant menace to Sunshine defence.
They deservedly went ahead after 18 minutes when the unopposed Gedo sent a delightful right-foot shot into the top corner from the edge of the area.
Ahly - displaying an intricate passing game involving the likes of Abdallah El-Saied, Walid Soliman and Gedo - doubled their lead in the 30th minute when Hamdi exchanged passes with left-back Ahmed Shedid on the left before dinking the ball over the keeper and into the net from a tight angle.
Tamen narrowed the gap four minutes later when he cut inside Ahly defender Wael Gomaa, who looked shaky throughout the game, to send a curling shot into the far corner of the net.
Ahly wasted several chances to put the result beyond doubt early in the second half, including a powerful left-foot volley from El-Saied which struck the woodwork.
They were punished when Sunshine Stars were awarded a penalty in the 73rd minute following a reckless lunge by Ahly defender Mohamed Naguib on an opponent. Dele converted the ensuing spot-kick past the despairing dive of keeper Sherif Ekramy.
Just one minute later, Gedo regained Ahly’s lead with a low shot from inside the area but the visitors were still made to pay for some sloppy defending.
They had to thank Ekramy for smothering some powerful and accurate shots from Sunshine Stars but he was powerless to stop the Nigerians from equalizing six minutes from time, thanks to a Precious goal.
Osasco Precious saw his outstanding free-kick sail over the wall and into the top corner of the net to keep Stars Shining, at least until the second leg.

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United warned off El Shaarawy

AC Milan vice president Adriano Galliani has warned Manchester United that any pursuit of Stephan El Shaarawy will end in frustration.

El Shaarawy, 19, has exploded onto the Serie A scene this season, scoring four goals in six league games, and providing a rare bright spot for Milan, who are languishing in mid-table.

The Italian media has claimed Sir Alex Ferguson is paying close attention to the Italy Under-21 international's progress, but Galliani insists there is no chance of him leaving.

He told Sky Italia: "El Shaarawy is an investment for this club and we are very happy with him. Manchester United have fallen in love with him? Our policy is to focus on youngsters and he won't be moving from here."

Galliani also backed Massimiliano Allegri to turn the club's fortunes around, despite a disappointing draw with Parma leaving Milan 11th in Serie A and a distant nine points behind league leaders Juventus.

"Allegri has the faith of the club," he said. "It is clear that all coaches are at risk when they continue to lose, but that isn't Allegri's case. We are convinced that results can only improve."

Zenit St Petersburg's Italian defender Domenico Criscito, who is preparing to line up against the Rossoneri in the Champions League, has also backed Milan's form to improve and rubbished speculation linking the Russian club's coach, Luciano Spalletti, with a switch to the San Siro.

He told Sky: "Milan are much improved in recent times, but we must take advantage of the few opportunities that Milan will give us. They have gone through a bad time recently, but they will make it difficult. We are playing well, and we hope to win the game. Milan, though, have many good players and we will have to remain alert and focused.

"I don't think Spalletti will succeed Allegri - I know that the coach is very happy in St Petersburg and has only just signed a three-year contract."

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San Jose Earthquakes 2-2 against Portland Timbers

Chris Wondolowski Photo by Area Chica.

Chris Wondolowski the league's best scorer placed 2 goals in the net with 17 minutes to go, and saved the Quakes' home unbeaten streak.  The Earthquakes also remained three points ahead of Sporting Kansas City in the Supporters' Shield race for the most points in the standings.


Portland opened the scoring before halftime. Danny Mwanga rounded Jon Busch and finished. The Timbers second goal was also Mwangas he 
 uncorked from distance and the shot screamed past Busch. 

San Jose threw Alan Gordon and Chris Wondolowski into the match. It paid off. Gordon headed on a long ball out of the back, which Steven Lenhart tapped into the path of Wondolowski. The leading scorer in MLS slipped home a left-footed shot from the top of the box. 

In stoppage time, Sam Cronin drilled a cross into the area. Hanyer Mosquera tipped it on toward the far post, and Wondolowski  equalized. He now has 21 goals this season.  

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Hull City coach commends Egypt winger Elmohamady 

Pharaohs winger off to a 'good start' says Tigers coach Steve Bruce after goals help 3-2 win over Leeds United .
Hull City coach Steve Bruce has praised Egypt winger Ahmed Elmohamady after helping in Tuesday's 3-2 win over Leeds United, the first away match for the Tigers in the Championship season.

The Pharaohs player, who scored the equaliser and the goal lead, has performed well in the first three appearances during his loan spell with Hull City.

The coach seems satisfied with his quick adaption. "He did very well for me [at Sunderland] and I knew he would do very, very well in the Championship,” Bruce was quoted as saying on the club's official website, Wednesday.

"He’s a good lad and he wants to play football. He’s had a good start here and the system suits him, he plays the same position for Egypt and he plays it very well.

"All of the new lads have had good starts to their careers here and long may it continue," the coach concluded.

After six weeks, Hull City is now fourth of the Championship table with 13 points.

Elmohamady, who is on a season-long loan from Sunderland, set to be a huge success after making such an impact at Hull City since his last minute switch.

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Man City's Aguero may feature against Real Madrid 
Sept 18, 2012

Manchester City forward Sergio Aguero has recovered sufficiently from a knee injury to have a chance of featuring in Tuesday's Champions League Group D opener at Real Madrid, manager Roberto Mancini said on Monday 

The Argentina international was carried off on a stretcher early in the first half of City's 3-2 win against promoted Southampton on the opening day of the Premier League season and has not played since.

After the City squad flew into the Spanish capital on Monday evening, Mancini said Aguero was now "okay".

"Probably he is not 100 percent because he didn't play since the injury but the feeling at this moment is good," he told a news conference at Real's Bernabeu stadium.

"He has a chance yes," he added, when asked by a reporter if Aguero might play.

A hero to City fans after scoring the goal that clinched the league title last season, Aguero knows the Real players well from his stint at their city rivals Atletico.

He scored three goals against the current La Liga champions in 11 derbies but failed to win any of those games, suffering eight defeats and three draws.

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Defoe double earns Villas-Boas first Tottenham win 
Sept 16, 2012

Andre Villas-Boas secured his first Premier League victory as Tottenham Hotspur manager when his side outclassed Reading 3-1 on Sunday with two goals from England striker Jermain Defoe

Without a win in their first three games of the season, Tottenham took the lead after 18 minutes when Gylfi Sigurdssdon and Aaron Lennon combined to set up Defoe for a cool finish.

Gareth Bale made it 2-0 after 71 minutes with a scuffed shot from Kyle Walker's cutback and Defoe continued his hot streak with a superb solo goal, running from inside his own half to clip a shot across Reading keeper Alex McCarthy.

Reading scored a consolation in the 90th minute when Hal Robson-Kanu hooked the ball in at the far post.

Villas-Boas, who failed to complete a season at Chelsea after being sacked in March, had come under pressure after replacing Harry Redknapp at Tottenham but victory lifted his side to 10th in the table with five points.

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Real Madrid's Mourinho attacks players after Sevilla defeat 
Sept 16,2012

Jose Mourinho criticises his Real Madrid stars after 1-0 loss to Sevilla in La Liga on Saturday sees them 8 points adrift of Barcelona 


Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho again criticised the attitude of a large part of his squad after the champions fell 1-0 at Sevilla, to slip eight points adrift of leaders Barcelona on Saturday.

Real conceded after only two minutes at the Sanchez Pizjuan when Piotr Trochowski volleyed in unmarked at a corner, and they were outfought in a bruising encounter that left them with four points from their first four games.

"I am only worried about my team," Mourinho told a news conference when asked about the points gap on their arch-rivals Barca, who won 4-1 at Getafe earlier in the day to maintain their 100 percent record.

"I am worried that since the season started officially we have only really played well in the Spanish Super Cup. Nowhere else. More than the points I am worried that in this moment I don't have a team.

"Congratulations to Sevilla, they deserved to win without any doubt. We got the prize we deserved considering how badly we played."

Madrid opened their campaign with a 1-1 draw at home to Valencia, were shock 2-1 losers at Getafe and after beating Barca to lift the Spanish Super Cup, strolled to a 3-0 win at home to Granada.

The Granada win, however, just before the two-week break for internationals, saw Cristiano Ronaldo hit the headlines.

The world's most expensive player told reporters after the game, when he failed to celebrate scoring two goals, that he was 'sad', for 'professional reasons' and that the club knew why.

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Ahly salvage draw with Zamalek, set up Sunshine semi-final
Sept 16, 2012

Ahly set up a Champions League semi-final clash against Nigeria’s Sunshine Stars after salvaging a 1-1 draw with Cairo rivals Zamalek on Sunday .

Ahly avoided a tricky semi-final clash against title holders Esperance in the African Champions League after sharing honours with arch-rivals Zamalek in a 1-1 Cairo derby draw on Sunday.

A depleted Ahly side, missing several key players, trailed to a first-half goal from Zamalek’s diminutive playmaker Mohamed Ibrahim but substitute Mohamed Barakat secured a share of spoils with a 62nd-minute strike.


Zamalek, who last beat Ahly in an Egyptian Premier League game in 2007, extended their Cairo derby winless streak to 14 matches.

Ahly, the record holders of Africa’s premier club competition with six titles under their belt, are on top of Group B with 11 points, one ahead of second-placed TP Mazembe of the DR Congo who lost 1-0 to Ghana’s Berekum Chelsea in the other group game.

The Red Devils will face Nigeria’s Sunshine Stars in the semis while Mazembe will take on defending champions Esperance.

Ahly missed the likes of defenders Wael Gomaa and Ahmed Fathi and defensive midfielder Hossam Ashour as coach Hossam El-Badry opted to rely on some youth and fringe players, including winger Ahmed Shokry who spent last season on loan at Bani Suef Telephones.

Zamalek had the upper hand in terms of possession in a dull first-half as chances were few and far between. However, the sluggishness of lone striker Ahmed Gaafar prevented them from creating some goal-scoring opportunities.

Mohamed Ibrahim unsettled Ahly’s backline with his pace and skilful moves down the left flank and his efforts paid dividends two minutes before the break.

Ibrahim superbly cut inside Ahly defenders Ahmed Sedik, who replaced injured right-back Sherif Abdel-Fadil in the first half, and Saad Samir to send a low shot into the bottom corner of the net from inside the area.

Zamalek wasted two efforts to double their advantage early in the second half, Cameroonian midfielder Alexis Mendomo forcing a superb save from keeper Sherif Ekrami and veteran midfielder Ahmed Hassan  sending a weak effort into the keeper’s hands with the goal at his mercy.

They were punished when Barakat, who came on instead of the ineffective Shokry, brought Ahly level in the 62nd minute.

His initial shot following a corner was blocked by a defender but he made no mistake on the second attempt, his fierce drive going in off the bar from inside the area.

Zamalek were unlucky not to secure all three points after squandering some clear-cut chances, including a curling free kick from central defender Mahmoud Fathallah that was superbly tipped onto the post by Ekrami.

Ahly were also dangerous on the break in the dying minutes but a draw was enough for them to finish atop of their group.

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Egypt's Zamalek to meet Real Mallorca in friendly  
Sept 13, 2012

Zamalek VS Atletico Madrid 2011

Zamalek will take on Spanish club Real Mallorca in a friendly match on 13 October in Spain, the Cairo giants announced on Wednesday.

"Zamalek will arrive in Spain on 11 October and will hold one training session before the match," the club revealed in statement on their official website.

"Coach Jorvan Vieira has welcomed the idea of playing the match as it will be good preparation just a few days before the new season starts on 17 October," added the statement.

The Whites are currently preparing for Sunday's derby with rivals Ahly in the final round of CAF Champions League group stage.

The match will be held behind closed doors at Alexandria's Borg Al-Arab Stadium for security reasons.

Ahly have already booked their place in the semi-finals, while the Whites have lost any hope of qualifying after a disastrous campaign.

Ahly are top of Group B with ten points, alongside TP Mazembe, while Zamalek – who were held to a 1-1 draw with Ghanaian side Berekum Chelsea on 1 September – are currently bottom with one point.

Ahly beat Zamalek 1-0 last month behind closed doors in the first Cairo derby to be held in the absence of fans.

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San Jose Earthquakes first MLS team to clinch playoff berth
Sept 8, 2012

The Earthquakes became the first team to clinch a Major League Soccer playoff berth by virtue of Chivas USA's 2-1 defeat Saturday to the Seattle Sounders FC. 

The Earthquakes have 53 points to lead the Western Conference with the MLS' overall top record. Seattle (13-6-8) moved to within six points of San Jose in the West while Real Salt Lake (14-11-4) is seven points back. Sporting Kansas City leads the East with 50 points, three behind San Jose in the Supporters' Shield race.

The Quakes have won three in a row, including a 1-0 exhibition victory Thursday over San Luis FC of Mexico. They return to MLS action next Saturday at Chivas USA.

The top five teams in points in each conference advance to the playoffs that begin Oct. 31 with a single-elimination match against the fourth-and fifth-seeded teams. The home-and-home conference semifinals series are scheduled for Nov. 3-4 and Nov. 7-8. The conference finals will be held the next week with the MLS Cup scheduled for Dec. 1 at the highest-seeded team's field.

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US Lost 2-1 in the World Cup Qualifier
Sept 8,2012

The US Men's National Team continued its dreadful World Cup 2014 Qualfiers with a pathetic 2-1 loss to a Jamaica team that had never defeated them in qualifiers.

The US got off to a tremendous start when Clint Dempsey scored in the first minute of play. But then the US relinquished the lead in the 22nt minute when Rodolph Austin scored on a free kick that US midfielder Kyle Beckerman redirected into his own net. In the second half Luton Shelton scored a classy free kick goal to secure the win in the 62nd minute.


The question that beckons is: What is wrong with the US? Here are a few reasons why they lost to Jamaica.

Kyle Beckerman

Not fair to pin it on one man, but when you commit a foul that gives the other team a free kick outside your box and then deflect said free kick into your net, you deserve to be a scapegoat. What's worse is that Beckerman was dreaful throughout the pitch as he blew coverages left and right and did little in terms of helping his team advance.

Jurgen Klinsmann

When Klinsmann was hired, the entire US soccer fanbase rejoiced. But Klinsmann has not necessarily been a godsend for the US. In this match, he made some questionable moves that cost the team dearly. The US offense was anemic, but the main reason was the Klinsmann decided to go with Beckerman, Maurice Edu, and Jermain Jones- all defensive midfielders. No Michael Bradley was disastrous for the US as the three midfielders never found the flow necessary to get their forwards the ball.

Anemic Offense

Clint Dempsey was the only capable forward on the field for the US. And he scored under a minute in to score the faster goal ever in US qualifying. However, no Landon Donavan and no Michael Bradley was costly for this team. They lacked creativity on the pitch and with Klinsmann's decision to go with three defensive midfielders, he only compounded his squad's problems.

After the loss, the US drops into a second place tie with Guatemala who won their match against Antigua. The US gets a second shot at Jamaica on home turf. 

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GUATEMALA OVERPOWER ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA 
Sept 8, 2012

On a waterlogged field (and that could be an understatement) in Guatemala City, the host nation proved too strong for the visiting side, as Carlos Ruiz scored a brace in the dominant win on Friday.

Play was sluggish throughout the night, as any consistent offense was hampered thanks to the field, which featured over a dozen large puddles. Even so, El Pescadito was able to score twice, as Ruiz made an impact, despite not having played for a club all season. He notched his 51st and 52nd career goals for Guatemala, continuing his successful year for his home country, having scored seven goals in 2012.

The pivotal win comes on the heels of the surprising draw against the United States in June, as Guatemala is now even with Americans in the Group A standings. Both are even with 4 points and a +1 goal differential.

The Guatemalans will now travel to North Sound for the second match with Antigua and Barbuda on Tuesday night.

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Ahly could withdraw from Egypt's Super Cup 
Sept 4,2012

The Cairo giants are caught up in a dispute over sponsors' rights which threatens their participation in the Super Cup 

Egyptian club Ahly will not be able to participate in Egypt's Super Cup match on 8 September as the recent advertising problems with the Egyptian Football Association (EFA) are still ongoing.

Ahly, who were Egyptian Premier League winners in 2011, are supposed to face Egypt Cup holders ENPPI in the annual curtain-raiser of the season, but disputes over sponsoring rights could threaten the participation of the league heroes.

The current sponsor of Ahly is Egypt's third biggest mobile network company Etisalat, while mobile market leader Vodafone Egypt is the sponsor of the activities of the EFA, like the Super Cup.

Each party, Ahly and EFA, is sticking with its sponsors' rights, reducing the chances of seeing the Cairo giants playing the match.

The Red Devils’ board will hold a meeting on Tuesday to announce their final decision regarding that game.

If the problem persists, the club management will have no choice but to withdraw.

League activities in Egypt were halted following the death of at least 70 fans in Egypt's worst sports disaster earlier this February, until a decision by the interior ministry in late August which gave the EFA the green light to hold the Super Cup with minimal fan attendance.

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Earthquakes Strikes Chivas USA 4-0
Sept 2, 2012

The S J Earthquakes hosted Chivas USA on Sunday at Buck Shaw stadium. Defender Victor Bernardez scored on a free kick early in the game, and midfielder Simon Dawkins added a goal from close range late in the first half for San Jose and brought his record to 7 goals for the year.

The captain Ramiro Corrales scored his first two goals of the season, both on free kicks in the second half, and the host Earthquakes beat Chivas USA 4-0.

The Earthquakes moved back into sole possession of the MLS lead with 53 points - three ahead of Sporting Kansas City.

Chivas USA had several scoring chances in the first half, but couldn't get anything past Jon Busch San Jose goalkeeper, who recorded his sixth shutout of the season.

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Ramiro Corrales before the game.

GK Jon Busch warming up at Buck Shaw Stadium

Rafael Baca and Ike Opara

Sam Cronin warming up.

Chivas USA-Earthquakes Preview

The Earthquakes will try to extend their unbeaten streak at Buck Shaw Stadium to 15 games Sunday night when Chivas makes its second visit of 2012. 



Chivas USA  faces a significant deficit in the West playoff race , and there are plenty of questions about the future after Jorge Vergara and his wife Angelica Fuentes took over full control of the team this week.
 
A report in the Los Angeles Times on Thursday said general manager Jose Domene had been fired, but Domene disputed that in a tweet and no announcement has been made.
Chris Wondolowski gets much of the attention with his league-leading 18 goals, Gordon (11),Steven Lenhart (8) and Dawkins (6) cannot be ignored. 


 The Quakes have done a wonderful job this season, Lenhart should return following a one-game red-card suspension.

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Group stage draw
Monaco - Thursday 30 August 2012

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Real Madrid beat arch-rivals Barcelona to win Super Cup 
Aug 29,2012

Real Madrid claimed their first Spanish Super Cup in four years and a morale-boosting success against their arch-rivals when Gonzalo Higuain and Cristiano Ronaldo struck in a 2-1 win against 10-man Barcelona on Wednesday.

The victory against an error-prone Barca, who had Adriano sent off in the 28th minute, meant the tie finished 4-4 on aggregate after the Catalans won last week's first leg 3-2 at the Nou Camp and Real took the trophy on the away goals rule.

Jose Mourinho's fired-up side were two ahead inside 20 minutes at the Bernabeu thanks to some poor Barca defending that allowed first Higuain on 11 minutes and Ronaldo eight minutes later to burst free and score.

Lionel Messi gave Barca a chance of pulling off an unlikely comeback when he curled in a spectacular free kick from 30 metres moments before halftime.

Pedro drew a brilliant save from Iker Casillas half an hour from time and both sides had chances in a frenetic ending but Real held firm to end Barca's three-year grip on the trophy.

It was a much-needed success for Jose Mourinho's side after they failed to win in their opening three matches of the season and crashed to a shock 2-1 defeat at city rivals Getafe in La Liga on Sunday.

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Gordon, Dawkins  lead Quakes to 4-1  over Rapids 
Aug 25,2012

The game started shortly after the Earthquakes Club President Dave Kaval announced “We will break ground on the new stadium on Oct. 21”, this would mean that the new park should be ready in time for the 2014 season. As part of the ceremony, they are hoping to break a Guinness World Record for the largest groundbreaking in history. "Instead of a golden shovel groundbreaking, we wanted everyone in the local community to participate equally in this historic event.

Dawkins scored the Quakes first goal in the 11th minute from a clever play by Gordon. The Englishman cut in to his right then ripped a good shot to open the tally.
San Jose doubled their lead before halftime when Gordon got to do the scouring from a nice play down the left by Rafael Baca for a 2-0 Quakes lead.


The Rapids got back in the match with a goal by Tyrone Marshall, but it didn't slow the Quakes down. Dawkins put the Quakes back in charge at the 68th minute when Sam Cronin fed him a nice pass and freed Dawkins of Colorado defense to make it 3-1. Gordon put the final nail in Colorado when he made it 4-1 from a perfect feed by Ramiro Corrales.

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Egypt’s Zamalek Ultras plan to attend Mazembe CAF clash, despite fans ban 
Aug 19,2012

Zamalek hardcore fans, the Ultras White Knights (UWK), have announced they will attend Sunday’s match in the military stadium against DR Congo’s TP Mazembe, despite the fans ban.

“UWK have decided to meet Sunday to attend the Mazembe match in the CAF Champions League,” reads a statement published 15 August on the UWK Facebook page that has more than 234,000 fans.

All continental competition is being held behind closed doors in Egypt while the last domestic football season were canceled on a wake of the Port Said disaster that saw the deaths of 74 Ahly fans after clashing with rivals Masry.

“It’s a moment awaited by many Knights. Who can stop the free fans from supporting their beloved team? “ said the post liked by more than 4000 fans and commented 855 times.

In Tunisia, experiencing similar circumstances as their league season was held behind closed doors, a match between rivals Esperance and Etoile Sahel, in the same CAF championship, was called off Saturday after a pitch invasion.

While comments on social networks swing between agreeing and objecting, Egyptians will be watching how the security forces handle the situation, especially on the first day of a Muslim holiday, Eid Al-Fitr.

It’s a decisive game for the Cairo-based club as they gained no points from three rounds while their bitter rivals Ahly are on the top of Group B with nine points and will be hosted by Ghana’s Berekum Chelsea later Sunday.

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 Ahly reach Champions League semis after Chelsea draw  
Aug 19,2012

Egypt's Ahly sealed their spot in the CAF Champions League last four after holding Ghana's Berekum Chelsea to a 1-1 draw in their Group B game in Accra on Sunday.

Ivorian striker Oussou Konan scored the opener for Ahly, while Opoku notched up the equaliser for the Ghanaian team on 52 minutes.

The Cairo giants extended their lead at the top of Group B with 10 points, five ahead of second placed Berekum Chelsea and six ahead of Congolese TP Mazembe who are set to face Zamalek on Sunday night.

Ahly looked for an early goal but playmaker Walid Soliman was not fortunate enough to put his team ahead in the first 20 minutes, while Chelsea's influential striker Emmanuel Clottey failed to prove his worth in his attempts to find the net.

However new-signing Konan, 23, met a ball from Mohamed Abou-Treika in the 42nd minute to put Ahly in the lead at the break.

It took Midfielder Jordan Opoku Opoku only seven minutes from the start of the second half to score the equaliser for the hosts.

Ahly's substitute striker Dominique Da Silva tried to put more pressure on the Ghanaian defense on many occasions to but he failed to score a second-half winner.

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Ahly's Meteb misses Ghana's trip 
Aug 17,2012

Ahly's coach Hossam El-Badry announced on Wednesday his 22-men squad for the Champions League quarter-final clash against Ghanaian side set to be played on Sunday in Accra.

Striker Emad Meteb was sidelined from the squad due to a hamstring injury sustained during the Red Devils training on Wednesday.

Veteran defender Wael Goama and defensive midfielder Hossam Ashour will miss also Sunday's clash due to their suspensions.

Goma was sent off during Ahly 4-1 victory over Chelsea in the previous game in Cairo two weeks ago, while Ashour received his second yellow card during the same match.

The six-time African Champions Ahly are top of group B with nine points following to three straight victories, while Chelsea are third with four points.

Ahly squad:

Goalkeepers:Sherif Ekrami, Mahmoud Aboul-Sauod, Ahmed Adel

Defenders: Mohamed Najuib, Sherif Abdel-Fadil, Sayed Moawad, Ahmed Shedid, Ahmed Fathi, Ahmed Sedik, Ramy Rabia, Saad Samir

Midfielders: Hossam Ghaly, Trezeguet, Mohamed Barakat, Mohamed Abou-Trieka, Walid Soliman, Abdullah El-Saied, Mohamed Nagy "Gedo", Ahmed Shoukry

Strikers:Oussou Konan, Dominique Da Silva, El-Sayed Hamdy

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Berekum Chelsea ordered to host Egypt's Ahly at Accra Stadium 
Aug 14, 2012

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has ordered Ghana's Berekum Chelsea to play their African Champions League game against Egypt's Ahly at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday.

The Ghanaian club had officially asked the CAF to move the match to the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi to allow more fans to attend the game, but the request was rejected.

Ahly recently lodged a complaint with the CAF asking that the match venue not be changed because any change must be announced ten days before the match date according to CAF rules.

“I can confirm we have been told to play in Accra and therefore we have no other option but to obey,” Chelsea’s Chief Executive Officer Nana Kwame Nketia was quoted as saying by GHANAsoccernet.com on Tuesday.

Six-time African champions Ahly are on top of Group B with three straight victories, and hope to maintain their 100 per cent record with a victory against Chelsea in Ghana.

Chelsea need to sink the Red Devils to revive their hopes of reaching the last four.

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Lenhart Header in the 93rd-minute gives Quakes the lead over Sounders
Aug 11,2012

San Jose did it again. A win in stoppage time to move five points clear of Real Salt Lake. 

Dawkins scored for San Jose to put the Quakes on top when he wheeled on a pass from Lenhart and beat Seattle goalkeeper to the near post from 12 yards. 

Montero evened the score for the Sounders, in the 81st-minute. But Lenhart header in stoppage time gave the S J Quakes a win worth 3 needed points to stay on top of the MLS Western Conference, five points ahead of Real Salt Lake.

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Emad Meteb to retire from international football after Olympics 
4-8-2012

Ahly’s striker Emad Meteb, citing fans insults, announces on Wednesday he will retire from international duties after the Olympics 
Egypt’s striker Emad Meteb announced on Wednesday that the ongoing Olympic Games will be the last step in his international career as he decided to quit the international duty after being severely criticised following his performance with Egypt’s U-23 national team.

The international striker, who played with Egypt’s U-23 national team as one of the three over-age player, has been the subject of a barrage of sarcasm after he wasted two easy chances in Egypt’s 1-1 draw against New Zealand in day two of the Olympics’ group stages.

’I can’t tolerate all this insults. I prefer to play with Ahly after these unsupportable insults. I am really frustrated,’’ Meteb told Ahly’s TV channel on Wednesday.  

‘’All my goal is the victory of the national team and I don’t know why all these insults.“

“I know that I wasted some scoring-opportunities against New Zealand but this game was the best in my participation at the Olympics till now.’’

The 29-year-old striker failed to score any goal during the last three games.

Meteb is the top goal scorer in Egypt's current squad as he scored 33 goals in 69 international appearances.

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 Egypt through to Olympic quarters for first time since 1984 

Egypt's football team beat Belarus 3-1 to qualify for the London Games quarter-finals after finishing second in Group C 

Egypt scored three second-half goals to defeat Belarus 3-1 and reach the Olympic Games quarterfinals for the first time since 1984 on Wednesday.

A dour first half ended goalless but Egypt, who had no option but to win to go through, roared back in the second period to end the resistance of Belarus and finish second in Group C with four points, five behind leaders Brazil who beat New Zealand 3-0.

In-form winger Mohamed Salah put Egypt ahead 11 minutes after the restart to take his tally to three goals in as many games, on level with Honduras' Jerry Bengston and Senegal's Moussa Konate on top of the scorers' chart.

Goals from substitute Marwan Mohsen and veteran playmaker Mohamed Abou-Treika put the result beyond doubt before Belarus' Andrei Voronkov notched up a late consolation.

Egypt, who were eliminated by Italy the last time they made a quarterfinal appearance at the 1984 Los Angeles Games, will face the winners of Group D. Japan lie on top with six points, two ahead of Honduras with one game to spare. 

However, they are likely to miss Abou-Treika, who scored two goals so far, in the last-eight clash as he is due to return to Cairo to join up with Ahly ahead of an African Champions League clash against Ghana's Chelsea next week.

Dull half

Chances were few and far between in a dull first half, with Belarus defending in numbers to salvage a draw and go through.

Egypt dominated possession but struggled to create clear-cut chances. Lone striker Emad Meteb often found himself isolated while several crosses from lively right-back Ahmed Fathi went begging.

Meteb, who was guilty of spurning a golden opportunity in stoppage time in the 1-1 draw with New Zealand, had a half chance after 27 minutes when his looping header was tipped over by Belarus keeper.

Salah also sent a curling shot wide from inside the area just before the break.

Egypt coach Hany Ramzy introduced striker Mohsen in the second half to partner Meteb upfront and pile on more pressure on Belarus, who seemed content to sit back.

The Pharaohs' pressure paid off on 56 minutes when a trademark superb long ball from Abou-Treika released Salah, who neatly controlled the ball despite being under pressure before placing a precise shot into the bottom corner from inside the area.

Egypt keeper Ahmed El-Shennawy made a superb reflex save to deny a powerful shot few minutes later in a rare foray by Belarus.

Mohsen finished off a swift counter attack to double the team's advantage in the 73rd minute.

Left-back Eslam Ramadan ran onto a threaded Abou-Treika pass on the left before sending in a low cross for Petrojet frontman Mohsen to fire home from close range.

Abou-Treika crowned his efforts with a third goal 11 minutes from time, slotting the ball into an empty net after being fed by darting full-back Omar Gaber, who came on as a second-half substitute.

Aleksievich pulled one back for Belarus with a header in the 87th minute but it was too little, too late as Egypt booked a last-eight berth.

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Quakes Barely Hang On To Win

By Rico Ramirez

San Jose held on for a 2-1 win to extend their lead st the top of  MLS to seven points. Quakes, were 2-0 up after goals by Marvin Chavez and Alan Gordon, and Chris Wondolowski  had a chance to put the Quakes 3-0 from the  penalty spot, but the  referee made him take the kick over again because a teammate entered the box  and when he retook the kick, Hartman saved FC Dallas from 3-0

The visitors  got on the scorboard at the 89th min when  Pertuz got on the end of a  cross and snapped it past Busch to get the visitors within one. In  stoppage time Dallas missed a chance to come from behind   and draw against the MLS best, when Benitez sent the penalty over the bar and San Jose held on for a 2-1 win.
 

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San Jose Earthquakes Demolish RSL 5-0

The game started at a sold out Buck Shaw stadium with the Quakes going on the attack almost from the get go and they outplayed the RSL with both concrete defense and superior offence.

Chris Wondolowski earned a hat trick; he scored in the 18th, 72nd and 80th minutes to extend his league-leading goal total to 17 on the year. Alan Gordon and Simon Dawkins also chipped in with a goal apiece, lifting San Jose (12-4-4) to an MLS-best 40 points through 20 games. San Jose finished with five goals; they could easily have had more if they wanted to.

Frank Yallop contributed the good performance by his team due to hard work and the fact that the team has no Prima donna. He also felt that the Quakes deserved to win the game in spite of Real Salt Lake down one man at the 55th minute. The 'Quakes return to action Wednesday at home against FC Dallas.

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California Clasico Ends In Fight
San Jose coming from two down to win 4-3. 

To all of our Egyptkora fans the Clasico between the San Jose Earthquakes and Los Angles Galaxy is as popular in California  as Ahly vs. Zamalek Clasico in Egypt . The 2 teams met 49 times, Earthquakes 16 wins and 63 goals.... Galaxy 25 wins 75 goals… and they tied 8 times.

The Game started with 50,000 S J Quake fans screaming beat L. A.  Lenhart had opened the scoring in the seventh minute. Pouncing upon a bundled save from Saunders  , but LA slowly began to get back into the game, building momentum through their midfield   David Beckham . Beckham began picking out teammates with pin-point, searching long balls. But it was a  curling free kick from 25 yards that brought Los Angeles level. Keeper Jon Busch could do nothing but stand and watch the ball  into the upper left corner of the net. 


 The Galaxy had struck twice more—both coming from Quakes central defender Jason Hernandez's mistakes. But his teammate Victor Bernardez scored a goal  with a terrific right-footed volley off Chavez's corner. To bring the Quakes whiten one goal of the L A Galaxy  and to give S. J. that momentum going into the locker room at end of the first half. 

Two minutes into the 2nd  half Quakes Sam Cronin number 4 scored a goal to bring the game to 3-3 , and 60 minutes into the game Chris Wondolowski netted his 14th goal of the year in impressive fashion, turning a cross into the back of the net with a stellar backheel to restore his team's lead.

The closing minutes were absolutely bonkers, with LA creating a number of chances but never finding an equalizer.Frustrations got the better of Beckham, who was booked for kicking a ball at the referee and Sam Cronin, who was down on the ground . 
After the final whistle blew, signalling San Jose's 4-3 victory, Beckham confronted various San Jose players and refused to be restrained by his teammates. He didn't throw any punches or kicks, but his actions were unprofessional enough that he could face a suspension from the league. 

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Head - To - Head

All time (49 meetings) Eathquakes 16 wins 63 goals.... Galaxy 25 wins 75 goals .... Ties 8

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It's Beckham, Donovan and some fireworks at Stanford   

Major League Soccer's San Jose Earthquakes, will host the L.A. Galaxy at 7 p.m. in a contest of California rivals known as the "California Clasico." The Earthquakes are leading the MLS Western Division with a record of 10-3-3, while the Galaxy are fifth at 6-8-2.
The 50,000-seat Stanford Stadium is sold out, ensuring the attendance will eclipse the Earthquakes' previous club record of 41,028 for a non-doubleheader match. That record was also set at Stanford Stadium in July of 2011.  

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Egypt stroll to win over Mozambique to give Bradley winning start 

Egypt open their World Cup qualifying campaign with an easy 2-0 victory over Mozambique on Friday.

Egypt made light of their myriad of footballing problems to open their World Cup qualifying campaign with a 2-0 home victory over Mozambique and give coach Bob Bradley a winning start on Friday.

A dull first-half ended goalless but two goals from central defender Mahmoud Fathallah and Mainz forward Mohamed Zidan after the break handed Egypt an easy win in their Group G opener.

Former United States boss Bradley will be relieved to enjoy a winning start in his first competitive test, having had to deal with a series of problems since succeeding Hassan Shehata last year.

All domestic football activities have been suspended since February’s infamous Port Said disaster, leaving Bradley struggling to prepare his side for the crucial World Cup commitments as they seek to qualify for the football’s most prestigious event for the first time since 1990.

Security concerns have forced Egypt to face Mozambique behind closed doors at the 86,000-seat Borg El-Arab Stadium in Alexandria. The seven-time African champions next face Guinea away from home on 10 June.

In four meetings between both sides, Egypt beat Mozambique with the same 2-0 score line.

Dour half

Looking highly affected by lack of domestic action, a toothless Egypt side hardly troubled Mozambique in the first half.

The hosts, short of the kind of fan support which always roar them on, were restricted to some tame shots and crosses, which were easily dealt with by Mozambique keeper Rafael Kampango, who plays for Egyptian second-division side Tersana.

Veteran playmaker Mohamed Abou-Treika was Egypt’s liveliest performer, thanks to his defence-splitting passes that his teammates failed to make use of during the first half.

One of those passes released attacking midfielder Mohamed Salah, who will join Swiss side Basel in the summer, after nine minutes but his weak effort was easily collected by Kampango.

Forward Ahmed Temsah, making his competitive debut, partnered 2010 Nations Cup hero Mohamed Nagy ‘Gedo’ upfront but neither made an impact.

Egypt’s best chance before the break fell to midfielder Hosni Abd-Rabou, who was picked out unmarked by a superb chipped pass from Salah but his mis-hit volley from inside the area went wide.

Two goals

Egypt notably improved after the interval, and were revitalized by the second-half introduction of Zidan, who is set to leave Bundesliga side Mainz in the summer.

The Pharaohs’ pressure paid dividends in the 56th minute when towering central defender Ahmed Hegazy, who is set to join Serie A side Fiorentina, nodded a cross into the path of the unmarked Fathallah at the far post to slot home.

Zidan doubled the lead three minutes past the hour mark when he nipped in between two defenders to collect a pass from Temsah and send a left-foot shot that struck the post before bouncing off Kampango’s back and into the net.

Egypt took their foot off the gas pedal afterwards but their win was never in doubt.

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Man City win English title after thrilling finale 

Manchester City won the English title for the first time in 44 years, surging past Queens Park Rangers 3-2 on Sunday with Sergio Aguero scoring his team's second goal during stoppage time
Aguero's goal in the fourth minute of injury time snatched the trophy from defending champion Manchester United on goal difference. United had been top when its game at Sunderland ended in a 1-0 win.

This was the first time the English title was decided on tiebreaker since 1989, when Arsenal and Liverpool were even on points and goal difference, and Gunners won on total goals.

Pablo Zabaleta had put City on course for the title with a 39th-minute goal, but Djibril Cisse evened for QPR three minutes into the second half.

City had a man advantage after QPR captain Joey Barton was sent off in the 55th, but Jamie Mackie managed to put the visitors in front on a header.

City's expensively assembled squad had been facing its first loss at home since December 2010, but substitute Edin Dzeko sparked the recovery by heading in a corner kick in the second minute of stoppage time.

There was still time for one final moment of drama in an unpredictable season when Aguero drove home the winner. As the final whistle blew, thousands of City fans poured onto the field and blue smoke wafted around the stadium.

Winning the title is the result of more than a $1 billion of investment by Abu Dhabi's Sheikh Mansour, who rescued a financially stricken club from ousted Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra in 2008.

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Real Madrid to play Galaxy for 3rd straight year 

Real, which finishes its season Sunday at Mallorca, won the Spanish league for the first time since 2008 
Real Madrid will play the Los Angeles Galaxy for the third straight preseason, with the Spanish league champion meeting the MLS winner Aug. 2 in an exhibition at the Home Depot Center.

Real Madrid defeated the Galaxy 3-2 on Aug. 7, 2010, before a crowd of 89,134 at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, then won 4-1 last July 16 in front of 56,211 at the Los Angeles Coliseum. Under coach Jose Mourinho, Real players appeared to enjoy their time at the Beverly Hills Hotel.

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Man City eye title after Kompany sinks United 

Vincent Kompany's powerful header sealed a 1-0 win for Manchester City over title rivals Manchester United on Monday to put Roberto Mancini's side within two victories of Premier League glory 
The Belgian defender rose unmarked just before halftime at the Etihad Stadium to settle a compelling and frantic derby that lacked quality but more than made up for that in tension.

United could not respond as City moved above their neighbours on goal difference with a match at Newcastle United and a home game with strugglers Queen Park Rangers to come.

Both sides have 83 points, with City having a superior goal difference of eight, and the momentum is now with Roberto Mancini's side who have clawed back an eight-point deficit since Easter to move within sight of their first English title since 1968.

A crackling atmosphere greeted the players as the sun set in Manchester and it was Alex Ferguson's experienced title winners who began with real urgency.

There were clearly some nerves in the home ranks, both on and off the field, and United threatened in the opening minutes when Ryan Giggs was allowed too much time to cross into the box and, as City struggled to clear, Michael Carrick prodded wide.

With Diego Maradona watching from the stands it was City's South Americans who began to warm to the task, along with Spaniard David Silva who orchestrated City's attack.

Argentine Carlos Tevez got free on the right but his cross was well cleared and then compatriot Sergio Aguero sliced a shot high and wide when well placed.

Kompany was enjoying a good old-fashioned scrap with Wayne Rooney and the City captain was booked for one rumbustious tackle on the England striker who became marginalised as the half wore on.

United found themselves pinned back as City began to hog possession and Aguero again failed to make the most of another half chance that came his way.

The visitors would have been happy to hear the halftime whistle on level terms but Kompany, sent off when the sides met in the FA Cup this season, chose the perfect time to score.

When Silva slung in a corner the Belgian evaded the attention of marker Chris Smalling and thumped a header past the helpless David de Gea.

United could never really find any attacking rhythm after the break as City erected a sky blue wall to deny United's forwards players any quality service.

With the clock ticking and the visitors becoming desperate tempers flared in the technical area with Mancini and Ferguson involved in a heated exchange.

City's Yaya Toure almost gave his side breathing space with a shot that whistled wide.

Ferguson threw on Danny Welbeck and Ashley Young to bolster United's attack but City held firm to spark a deafening rendition of club anthem Blue Moon.

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Bayern stun Real in shootout to set up Chelsea final  

Bayern Munich ended Real Madrid's bid for a 10th European crown when they eliminated the Spaniards 3-1 on penalties in a nerve-jangling Champions League semi-final second leg at the Bernabeu on Wednesday 
 Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer was the hero for the Bundesliga side when he saved Cristiano Ronaldo and Kaka's spot kicks in a dramatic shootout.

Real keeper Iker Casillas then revived Real's hopes by saving efforts from Toni Kroos and Philipp Lahm but after Sergio Ramos skied his penalty over the bar Bastian Schweinsteiger rifled home to send the Bavarians through.

"I have not witnessed something like that in 40 years of professional football," said Bayern CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge.

"This tops everything we experienced in the 70s and 80s. I am very happy and very proud. That was top quality football."

The home side had quickly cancelled out Bayern's 2-1 first-leg win when Ronaldo netted a sixth-minute penalty and then produced a smart finish from the edge of the area eight minutes later.

Bayern pulled a goal back in the 27th minute when Arjen Robben also netted from the spot.

The visitors started to settle into the game and Robben and Mario Gomez both went close, with Karim Benzema also looking dangerous for the hosts.

After the break, both sides were more cautious but with extra time approaching Gomez squandered a chance to send Bayern through when he took too long to control and Khedira was able to get back and smother his weak shot.

Extra time followed a similar pattern with Real's only real chance falling to substitute Kaka but Bayern managed to clear their lines.

"It was a very exciting match but in the end penalties are always a lottery," said Casillas.

"We shouldn't dwell on it too much. We played very well, created chances and passed the ball around well."

Real's latest failure in Europe's elite club competition is a huge blow for the capital side, whose president Florentino Perez has spent hundreds of millions of euros on players and coaching staff chasing the elusive 10th continental title.

He lured coach Jose Mourinho from Inter Milan in 2010 in a bid to end Barcelona's Spanish and European domination but they have tripped up at the semi-final stage for a second consecutive season after falling to Barca in 2011.

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Heroic Chelsea reach final and dump out holders Barca
10-man Chelsea defeat Barcelona on a 3-2 aggregate

An heroic Chelsea serviced the dismissal of captain John Terry and a Lionel Messi missed penalty to eliminate holders Barcelona 3-2 on aggregate and secure a place in the Champions League final after an action-packed clash on Tuesday.
The semi-final second leg at the Nou Camp ended 2-2 and burst into life towards the end of the first half when Sergio Busquets put Barca ahead, Terry was sent off for kneeing the leg of Alexis Sanchez and Andres Iniesta made it 2-0.

Barca looked in total control but were rocked when Frank Lampard sent Ramires clear in first-half added time and the Chelsea midfielder lifted the ball brilliantly over the onrushing Barca goalkeeper Victor Valdes into the empty net.

Barca squandered a chance to make it 3-1 early in the second half when the referee awarded a penalty for a Didier Drogba foul on Cesc Fabregas and Messi, who was denied by a post late on, crashed his spot kick against the crossbar.

Fernando Torres, who has a great record against Barca despite misfiring so many times for the Premier League side, then netted for Chelsea in stoppage time after being clear on goal.

Chelsea's triumph is all the more remarkable given they sacked coach Andre Villas-Boas last month and Roberto Di Matteo is only caretaker manager. They lie sixth in the Premier League.

"We've done it. We scored an away goal and I think that was the key," goalkeeper Petr Cech told Sky Sports.

"What can I say. We scored goals and fought for 90 minutes. We were down to 10 men and down 2-1, but I think it's fantastic what we've done."

Barca's elimination is a fresh setback for Pep Guardiola's side after they lost last week's first leg in London 1-0 and crashed to a 2-1 La Liga reverse at home to bitter rivals Real Madrid on Saturday. Real are hot favourites for La Liga glory.

Chelsea will play Real or Bayern Munich in the May 19 final, with the Germans holding a 2-1 advantage from last week's first leg for Wednesday's return at the Bernabeu.

Barca, who lost Gerard Pique to concussion midway through the first half after Chelsea's Gary Cahill had limped off with a muscle strain, were chasing a third continental title in four years.

Chelsea, beaten at the same stage by Barca in 2009, are looking to win a first European title after they fell to Manchester United in the 2008 final but will head to the Munich showpiece with a four players suspended.

Defenders Terry and Branislav Ivanovic will be joined on the sidelines by midfielders Ramires and Raul Meireles. Cahill faces a race to be fit as does fellow centre back David Luiz, who missed Tuesday's match through injury.

Fellow defender Ashley Cole said: "It was hard when you lose both centre halves like that. But at the end of the day we all believed. Not many people did, but we all did.

"Three or four months ago no one thought we had a chance. We lost a few games in the Premier League. We've been lucky, but it shows you can't beat our desire and fight."

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San Jose Earthquakes vs Real Salt Lake live on  Egyptkora.com

Game starts @ 7:30 Pacific time

Barca, Real lock horns in Clasico title showdown 

Barcelona's Messi with Real Madrid's Ronaldo

Bitter rivals Barcelona and Real Madrid meet on Saturday in the sixth 'Clasico' of the season to fight for three crucial points that will shape the destiny of this season's La Liga title.

With five games remaining, Real Madrid go to the Nou Camp four points clear of their great rivals knowing that a win or draw will almost certainly break Barca's dominance and hand Jose Mourinho's side their first title in four seasons.

Real were 10 points clear of the Catalans just over a month ago but have drawn three of the last seven games while Barca have won their last 11 league matches.

Real's run, that has opened the door for Barcelona, began with a 1-1 draw at home to Malaga followed by further draws against Villarreal and Valencia.

The goals of Lionel Messi have been crucial in Barca's recent run -- the Argentine has scored an incredible 18 goals in those 11 wins.

Cristiano Ronaldo has also netted 41 league goals for Madrid making it a head-to-head shoot out between the two best players in the world for the 'Pichichi' prize awarded to the league's top scorer.

Both have earned countless man of the match awards, the tricky recent away wins for both sides at Atletico Madrid standing out for great match-winning goals from the two stars.

Messi has 63 in all competitions to Ronaldo's 53, but if the Portuguese star wins his first La Liga title, against the reigning Spanish, European and World Club Champions, it would surely rank with the best feats in his career to date.

'El Clasico' matches have courted a fair amount of controversy in recent seasons with the appearance of Mourinho on the Madrid bench and his attempts to add a psychological dimension to the clash.

The rivalry boiled over at the beginning of the season when Mourinho poked Barca coach Pep Guardiola's assistant Tito Vilanova in the eye during a game.

Mourinho has only beaten Barca once in 10 attempts since he took over in the summer of 2010.

That victory came in last season's Spanish cup final with a Ronaldo winner in extra-time, but a league title over the Catalans would certainly justify Mourinho's antics in the eyes of 'Madridistas'.

To add more spice, the clash comes the weekend before both sides attempt to turn around first-leg away defeats in the Champions League semi-finals in a bid to meet each other in May's final in Munich.

Real Madrid lost 2-1 to a last-minute goal against Bayern Munich on Tuesday while Barca failed to score in 24 attempts at goal in Wednesday's 1-0 defeat at Chelsea.

In a bid to reduce the pressure on his players Guardiola has continued to reiterate in recent weeks that winning the league is an impossible task.

On Wednesday he was philosophical about his team's defeat and the battles to come.

"I don't know what will happen on Saturday and next Tuesday (the Champions League return leg) but I feel that we have triumphed already," he said cryptically, perhaps referring to Barca's success in recent years.

Mourinho could rest some of his regulars ahead of the Bayern return clash.

Full-back Fabio Coentrao was criticised for his performance in Germany while Mesut Ozil was replaced in the second-half.

To play Karim Benzema or Gonzalo Higuain in attack alongside Ronaldo has also produced great debate all season long.

Guardiola has left Gerard Pique on the bench for the last two games while debate in Barcelona surrounds the form of Cesc Fabregas who has failed to score since early February and Cristian Tello or Pedro Rodriguez could be favoured.

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Ronaldo to get Bavarian shoes after theft 

Cristiano Ronaldo reportedly had three pairs of soccer shoes stolen before Real Madrid's Champions League game against Bayern Munich. The new ones he'll get as compensation will make him fit right into the Oktoberfest this year 

German radio station Bayern 1 says it will donate a pair of Bavarian folk shoes to Ronaldo after the Portugal winger and teammates Mesut Oezil and Karim Benzema reportedly had shoes and shirts stolen from the dressing room at Allianz Arena.

Bayern won the first leg of the semifinal 2-1.

Spanish newspaper Marca reported that Madrid has filed a complaint with UEFA over the alleged theft.

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Egyptian Premier League season cancelled

The Egyptian Premier League 2011/2012 season has been called off in the wake of the country’s worst football disaster, the Egyptian Football Association (EFA) announced on Saturday.

A friendly tournament featuring 18 teams will be held instead. Masry, whose home match against Ahly on the first of February witnessed the infamous riots which left 74 fans killed, have been expelled from the tournament.

It is the fifth team Egypt’s premier domestic competition is cancelled after the 1954/55, 1970/71, 1973/74 and 1989/90 seasons.

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 Earthquakes defeated New England Revolution 1-0 in their Season Opening  

 March 10, 2012

  Chris Wondolowski scored the only goal of the game in the 15th minute as the San Jose Earthquakes made a winning start to the 2012 season with a 1-0 victory over the New England Revolution on Saturday night at Buck Shaw Stadium.

This was the first opening-day win for the Earthquakes since 2003. The teams combined  just two shots on target, but Wondolowski made the most of San Jose’s lone effort on frame by burying a breakaway following a costly turnover in the early stages.

Wondolowski took just 15 minutes to rediscover the form which sent him to the top of the league’s goal-scoring charts the past two seasons. Shea Salinas intercepted a cross-field pass from Shalrie Joseph near midfield and quickly sprang a counterattack, slotting Wondolowski on a breakaway as Lozano stepped up. Wondolowski settled himself before curling a shot into the right side of the net from the top of the box.

The Revolution’s best chance to equalize before the halftime break arrived in the 32nd minute when Soares flashed a header wide of the left post from Benny Feilhaber’s free kick, while Feilhaber tested Earthquakes goalkeeper Jon Busch with a skipping 30-yard drive in the 43rd minute.

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Larissa Riquelme, Lingerie Model, Will Run Naked If Paraguay Wins World Cup

Paraguay's success at the World Cup continued on Tuesday, with the country's soccer team beating Japan on penalty kicks to advance to the tournament's quarterfinals. Now, with only eight teams remaining, the Paraguayans may have a few more fans to help win it all.

Larissa Riquelme, a curvy lingerie model who loves her national team, has been cheering the Paraguay squad on from Asuncion, clad in revealing outfits. The 24-year-old beauty has pledged to run naked through the streets "with my body painted with the colors of Paraguay" if Paraguay wins the World Cup.

The gorgeous football fanatic is not the first person to promise to streak in the event of a World Cup win. Argentina's coach Diego Maradona was the first prominent person to issue such a guarantee, and his team has also made the quarterfinals. Scroll down for pictures of Riquelme cheering her team on. Are you rooting for Paraguay now?

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