Real madrid Barcelona La Liga 25-10-2014

 

Luis Suarez could make his long-awaited Barcelona debut when they travel to Real Madrid for the first El Clasico of the La Liga season on Saturday evening.

The Uruguayan striker joined Barca from Liverpool for £75m this summer but has been prevented from playing by the worldwide ban handed to him for his bite of Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini at the World Cup.

He watched the last game during his suspension on Tuesday evening as the Catalan giants recorded a 3-1 home victory over Ajax in the Champions League, in which Lionel Messi and Neymar both scored.

Luis Enrique may be tempted to start Suarez alongside his fellow South Americans, who have each netted in all of Barcelona's last five games, in a formidable forward line when they visit their biggest rivals.

Madrid themselves come into the game on the back of an impressive European result, having put Liverpool to the sword to win 3-0 at Anfield, with Cristiano Ronaldo notching before Karim Benzema's brace.

Ronaldo has a staggering 20 goals in 15 appearances this season and undoubtedly presents the biggest test yet of a Barcelona defence which has yet to be breached in their unbeaten start to the campaign.

Twenty-two points from eight games see Barca top the standings by three points from Sevilla, with Madrid one further back in third having recovered from two early defeats to win five La Liga matches on the spin

Gareth Bale missed out on a return to British soil with a hip problem which will also sideline him from the encounter at the Bernabeu, so Isco will keep his place as one of three attacking midfielders.

El Clasico veteran Sergio Ramos is also a fitness doubt having picked up a calf injury. Raphael Varane is again in line to deputise in a defence which could feature Dani Carvajal rather than Alvaro Arbeloa at right-back.

Should Enrique gamble on Suarez, Pedro is the most likely to make way and other members of Barca's golden generation, Xavi and Gerard Pique, could strangely find themselves on the fringes of Clasico chaos.

Ivan Rakitic has nailed down Xavi's place in midfield, while Jeremy Mathieu's return to fitness puts Pique's inclusion in jeopardy, should Javier Mascherano be deployed in the centre of defence. Claudio Bravo will be recalled in goal after Marc-Andre ter Stegen was given a go in midweek.

Barcelona won both La Liga matches between the teams last season before Carlo Ancelotti's side gained revenge in the Copa del Rey final

 

Possible starting lineups

 

Real: Casillas; Carvajal, Pepe, Varane, Marcelo; Kroos, Modric; James, Isco, Ronaldo, Benzema

 

Barcelona: Bravo; Alves, Pique, Mathieu, Alba; Busquets, Rakitic, Iniesta; Neymar, Messi, Suarez

Sports Mole says: 2-2

 

Channel

 

Sky Go Extra, Sky Sports 5/HD, NOW TV, Sky Go

 beIN Sports en Espanol, SiriusXM FC, beIN Sports USA

C More Sport 1, C More Sport HD

Fox Sports 2 Cambodia, Fox Sports 2 Papua New Guinea

- 

 Can You Watch Match Live Here Link 1 Link 2 live Score

Read full post »

Match Denmark vs Portugal UEFA Euro Qualifying 14-10-2014

Denmark vs Portugal -

Competition: UEFA Euro Qualifying
Match date: 14 October 2014 - Kick Off Time: 19:45 BST
Venue: Parken, Kobenhavn

Denmark have an excellent opportunity at home this midweek to stamp their authority on Group I. Portugal pose a difficult task, but the hosts have more than enough quality to put in an upset bid, especially considering they have won their last 3 matches in Copenhagen while going unbeaten in their last 4 in the Danish capital. Furthermore, on home soil overall they’ve lost just once in their last 6 contests, most notably defeating Sweden and holding Italy to a 2:2 draw. The hosts have gotten their European Championship Qualifying off to a nice start as well, claiming 3 points at home against Armenia and then drawing on the road 1:1 with Albania. This start has them sitting in 2nd place of the table, 4 points above the Portuguese (with one extra game played), and oft-controversial striker Nicklas Bendtner has been a big reason for their success, as the imposing lead man now has 2 good assists over their first 2 games. But Christian Erikson is a big part of Denmark’s plans, and while the creative midfielder isn’t in the best of form for his club right now, he will be looked to as the imaginative spark for the hosts at the Parken.

 

Portugal team have followed up their poor World Cup showing over the summer with perhaps even more disappointing displays. In their opening Euro qualifier, they lost at home to Albania 1:0, failing to consistently threaten their opposition in the absence of Cristiano Ronaldo. A return to less-intense competition in a friendly match with France on Saturday saw the comeback of Ronaldo to the line-up, but once again the Portuguese failed to capitalize on their opportunities, and by the time Ricardo Quaresma scored in the 77th minute from the penalty spot, France already held a multiple-goal lead and would hold on in the end for all of the bragging rights. New manager Fernando Santos however will be pleased with his team’s performance, and his competitive debut this Tuesday will be interesting to see how well he utilizes tactics, deploys his troops, and motivates his players. A coach signing typically has a ripple effect of newfound confidence for the team and the desire to play for the new boss, and while the going won’t be easy in the Danish capital, the players and traveling support will be more than up for this match.

 

Probable lineups:
Portugal: Patricio – Soares, Pepe, Carvalho, Eliseu – Moutinho, Carvalho, Gomes – Nani, Ronaldo, Danny.

Denmark: Schmeichel – Ankersen, Bjelland, Kjaer, Boilesen – Kvist, Hojbjerg – Schone, Eriksen, Krohn-Dehli – Bendtner.

 

Read full post »

Match Aston Villa v Arsenal Premiere League 20-09-2014

 

Match time Aston Villa v Arsenal is at 14:00 on 20 September 2014 for Premiere League 2014-2015. Kick off time of match Aston Villa v Arsenal is on London time.

 

Aston Villa played in excellent form and have collected 10 from the maximal 12 points. This is their best start in the Premier League in the last 16 years. Villa sit on the second position, right behind Chelsea. The summer signings Phillip Senderos, Tom Cleverley and Fabian Delph perfectly adapted into the team. In the last round they surprisingly beat Liverpool at Anfield with same results as Stoke City in the opening match. They failed to score only against Newcastle. Here are the results:

13.09.2014. Liverpool - Aston Villa 0:1
31.08.2014. Aston Villa - Hull City 2:1
23.08.2014. Aston Villa - Newcastle 0:0
16.08.2014. Stoke City - Aston Villa 0:1

The strikers Christian Benteke and Libor Kozak will miss the match due to injuries. Benteke is long-term absence since April, after suffering a torn Achilles. Kozak also didn't play in this season. It is clear their absence is not a big problem at the moment. The defender Ron Vlaar is doubtful due to a calf injury.

Arsenal are unbeaten so far, but have only one victory. It is clear this is not what the fans were expecting. The Gunners won over Crystal Palace, but after poor performances and late goal. Arsenal scored five goals in the next three matches, but that was enough only for three draws. They sit on the 7th position, a huge six points behind the leaders Chelsea. Arsenal lost to Borussia Dortmund in the Champions league, which also gives demoralization atmosphere in the squad. Here are the last league results:

13.09.2014. Arsenal - Manchester City 2:2
31.08.2014. Leicester - Arsenal 1:1
23.08.2014. Everton - Arsenal 2:2
16.08.2014. Arsenal - Crystal Palace 2:1

The defender Mathieu Debuchy is expected to be sidelined two months due to an ankle problem, while the defender Nacho Monreal is doubtful. The defender Calum Chambers is expected to be fit. The midfielder Mesut Ozil is still struggling to return in form after winning the World Cup with Germany.

The last three mutual matches between Aston Villa and Arsenal were low scoring with goals on both sides. Here are the results:  

13.01.2014. Aston Villa - Arsenal 1:2
17.08.2013. Arsenal - Aston Villa 1:3
23.02.2013. Arsenal - Aston Villa 2:1

 

Probable starting eleven:

 

Aston Villa:
Guzan; Hutton, Baker, Senderos, Cissokho; Westwood, Cleverley, Delph; Richardson, Weimann, Agbonlahor

 

Arsenal:
Szczesny; Chambers, Koscielny, Mertesacker, Gibbs; Ramsey, Arteta; Cazorla, Wilshere, Sanchez; Welbeck

 

Read full post »

Aston Villa played in excellent form and have collected 10 from the maximal 12 points. This is their best start in the Premier League in the last 16 years. Villa sit on the second position, right behind Chelsea. The summer signings Phillip Senderos, Tom Cleverley and Fabian Delph perfectly adapted into the team. In the last round they surprisingly beat Liverpool at Anfield with same results as Stoke City in the opening match. They failed to score only against Newcastle. Here are the results:

13.09.2014. Liverpool - Aston Villa 0:1
31.08.2014. Aston Villa - Hull City 2:1
23.08.2014. Aston Villa - Newcastle 0:0
16.08.2014. Stoke City - Aston Villa 0:1

The strikers Christian Benteke and Libor Kozak will miss the match due to injuries. Benteke is long-term absence since April, after suffering a torn Achilles. Kozak also didn't play in this season. It is clear their absence is not a big problem at the moment. The defender Ron Vlaar is doubtful due to a calf injury.

Arsenal are unbeaten so far, but have only one victory. It is clear this is not what the fans were expecting. The Gunners won over Crystal Palace, but after poor performances and late goal. Arsenal scored five goals in the next three matches, but that was enough only for three draws. They sit on the 7th position, a huge six points behind the leaders Chelsea. Arsenal lost to Borussia Dortmund in the Champions league, which also gives demoralization atmosphere in the squad. Here are the last league results:

13.09.2014. Arsenal - Manchester City 2:2
31.08.2014. Leicester - Arsenal 1:1
23.08.2014. Everton - Arsenal 2:2
16.08.2014. Arsenal - Crystal Palace 2:1

The defender Mathieu Debuchy is expected to be sidelined two months due to an ankle problem, while the defender Nacho Monreal is doubtful. The defender Calum Chambers is expected to be fit. The midfielder Mesut Ozil is still struggling to return in form after winning the World Cup with Germany.

The last three mutual matches between Aston Villa and Arsenal were low scoring with goals on both sides. Here are the results:  

13.01.2014. Aston Villa - Arsenal 1:2
17.08.2013. Arsenal - Aston Villa 1:3
23.02.2013. Arsenal - Aston Villa 2:1

 

Probable starting eleven:

 

Aston Villa:
Guzan; Hutton, Baker, Senderos, Cissokho; Westwood, Cleverley, Delph; Richardson, Weimann, Agbonlahor

 

Arsenal:
Szczesny; Chambers, Koscielny, Mertesacker, Gibbs; Ramsey, Arteta; Cazorla, Wilshere, Sanchez; Welbeck

Read full post »

Galatasaray vs Anderlecht 1-1 All Goals & Highlights Uefa Champions League 16-09-2014

Galatasaray vs Anderlecht

Competition: Uefa Champions League

Match date: 16 September 2014

Kick Off Time:  - 19:45  GMT

 

Final score and result:- Galatasaray vs Anderlecht  1-1  (Aydin Yilmaz  Dennis Praet   ) 

Galatasaray vs Anderlecht   0-1 (Dennis Praet  goal vs Galatasaray   52′)

 Galatasaray vs Anderlecht   1-1 (Aydin Yilmaz  v Anderlecht   90′  )

 

Read full post »

Match Olympiakos v Atletico Madrid Uefa Champions League16-09-2014

 

Olympiakos v Atletico Madrid

Competition: Uefa Champions Legue  

Match date: 16 September 2014

Kick Off Time:  - 19:45  GMT

Olympiakos are the dominant team in Greece. They have no real opponents in the domestic Super League, particularly in the past few years as their biggest rival Panathinaikos is just a shadow of the team we remember. Who knows if that's good or bad. Olympiakos are very strong at home and they have won 16 of their 17 league fixtures at the Karaiskakis Stadium in the season 2013/14. Olympiakos are continuing in that style and have obtained two wins on the first two home matches this season. Here are the results:

13.09.2014. Oympiakos - OFI Crete 3:0
23.08.2014. Olympiakos - Niki Volos 3:1

The coach Míchel will be without midfielder Giannis Maniatis due to an ankle injury, while the defender Dimitris Siovas is rated as doubtful. He has returned to training after long-term injury, but his fitness is questionable.

 

Atletico Madrid were the pleasant surprise last season. They won the domestic Primera Division and were only one minute away from lifting the Champions League trophy. However, they were unlucky to concede a late goal in the 93rd minute and then lost in extra-time. Nevertheless, they were heroes in many eyes. In an era when money is considered king in the football world, it has been uplifting to see "small" Atletico punch above their weight in the Champions League. Many reach teams like Chelsea, Manchester City, PSG, Bayern Munich, Barcelona stayed behind.

 

The summer transfer window was brutal for Atletico and the key players like Diego Costa, Thibaut Courtois, Filipe Luis left the club. Many believed this will be the end of Atletico. But the miracle is continuing. Atletico managed to beat Real Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup. The most impressive of those performances came on Saturday, when Arda Turan's goal secured another triumph at Santiago Bernabeu, this time in Primera Division. Just look this three results:

 

13.09.2014. Real Madrid - Atletico Madrid 1:2 - La Liga
22.08.2014. Atletico Madrid - Real Madrid 1:0 - Super Cup
19.08.2014. Real Madrid - Atletico Madrid 1:1 - Super Cup

 

 Channel

 

beIN SPORTS 6 HD
C+LCampeones
Canal + Family 2 
Canal + Family 2 HD
beIN Sports Max 4

 

Read full post »

Match Rosenborg v Bodo/Glimt Tippeligaen - 12-09-2014

Rosenborg are currently on the third position in Tippeligaen. They have 39 points from 22 matches so far and they will be battling with Stromsgodset and Lillestrom for the third place in order to qualify for UEFA Europa League as the first place is reserved for Molde who have 14-point advantage. The actual form of the team is getting better. Rosenborg have two victories in a row in the domestic league and also they have five wins in a row on their home matches. It is clear they will be looking to extend their streak on this match. Here are the results of those matches:

 

24.08.2014. Rosenborg - Sarpsborg 2:0
10.08.2014. Rosenborg - Start 3:2
20.07.2014. Rosenborg - Sogndal 1:0
06.07.2014. Rosenborg - Haugesund 5:3
09.06.2014. Rosenborg - Lillestrom 3:1

 

The coach Kare Ingebrigtsen has almost all players available ahead of this match. The only absence will be striker Alexander Soderlund. However, his absence is a big handicap knowing he played 20 matches and scored 14 goals this season.

 

Bodo/Glimt are currently in the middle of the table, on the 8th position in the league. They have 28 points and they are far from both European competitions and far from the relegation zone. Nevertheless, the actual form of the team is good. After the bad series of five matches in a row they have lost, Bodo managed to win three of the last four matches, plus the draw against Sandnes. Here are the results of those matches:

 

30.08.2014. Bodo/Glimt - Valerenga 4:3
24.08.2014. Haugesund - Bodo/Glimt 1:2
17.08.2014. Bodo/Glimt - Sandnes Ulf 1:1
10.08.2014. Sogndal - Bodo/Glimt 0:1

 

The coach Jan Halvorsen has only one player that will be missing for this match as the defender Zarek Valentin is injured.

 

Rosenborg won the last two mutual league matches that date from the season 2009/10. The first match of the season ended with a draw. Here are the results:

 

21.04.2014. Bodo/Glimt - Rosenborg 2:2
15.08.2009. Rosenborg - Bodo/Glimt 2:0
01.06.2009. Bodo/Glimt - Rosenborg 0:4

Read full post »

Spain vs FYR Macedonia 5-1 ~ All Goals & Highlights 08-09-2014 UEFA Euro Qualifying

Spain 5 - 1 FYR Macedonia 

Competition: UEFA Euro Qualifying, 

Match date: 8 September 2014

Kick Off Time: 19:45 BST - 18:45 GMT

 

Spain

15'  Sergio Ramos penalty
17'  Paco Alcacer
 45'  Sergio Busquets 
50'  David Silva
  90'  Pedro Rodriguez

FYR Macedonia

 

28'  Agim Ibraimi penalty

 

Read full post »

Match Czech Republic v Holland UEFA Euro Qualifying- 09-Sep-2014

 

Czech Republic v Holland 

Competition: UEFA Euro Qualifying, 

Match date: 9 September 2014

Kick Off Time: 19:45 BST - 18:45 GMT

Czech Republic will start their 2016 European Championship campaign against Netherlands at home. Turkey, Latvia, Iceland and Kazakhstan, along with Holland and Czech Republic, are the teams that will fight for the first two positions in the Group A. The Czechs are favorites for, together with Turkey as Netherlands. Czech Republic played a friendly match couple of days ago and they have lost against USA at home. They failed to score on that match and that's a problem. United States managed to win 1:0 on that game played on 03.09.2014.

The coach Pavel Vrba has all of his players available except Petr Cech and Tomas Rosicki. Both haver retired from international football.

On the other side, Holland will start the campaign with a new coach, Guus Hiddink. However, he has started badly his second spell at the managerial position. Netherlands lost the friendly match against Italy, but Hiddink is confident of better performances in the upcoming matches.

"The evening was already over after eight minutes," Hiddink rued. "During the opening stages, we were naive in our defending. We were so easily overrun and that should not be the case. You cannot start a match so badly," - he added.

The final result on that match was 2:0 for Italy.

The coach Guus Hiddink has Arjen Robben, Klaas-Jan Huntelaar and Rafael van der Vaart injured ahead of this match.

The last mutual matches between these two sides were from the season 2005/06. Netherlands won both matches with the same result. Here are the results:

08.10.2005. Czech Republic - Holland 0:2
08.09.2004. Holland - Czech Republic 2:0

 

Channel

 

Abu Dhabi Sports 2
Abu Dhabi Sports HD 2

 

 

 

 

 

 

Read full post »

Match Portugal v Albania UEFA Euro Qualifying- 07-Sep-2014

Portugal v Albania

Competition: UEFA Euro Qualifying, 

Match date: Sunday, 7 September 2014
Kick Off Time: 19:45 BST - 18:45 GMT
  

Portugal will be starting their European Championship qualification campaign against Albania at home. They have bad starts on the last couple of qualification campaigns, but they have been showing good performances in the later matches. Portugal failed to advance from the group stage at the World Cup in Brazil, even though they had one win, one draw and a loss against Germany. The group stage matches were the last matches Portugal played before this match. Here are the results:

26.06.2014. Portugal - Ghana 2:1
23.06.2014. USA - Portugal 2:2
16.06.2014. Germany - Portugal 4:0

The coach Paulo Bento will probably be fielding the following eleven players on the field:

Patricio – Pereira, Costa, Pepe, Coentrao – Moutinho, Carvalho, Meireles – Vieirinha, Nani – Eder

On the other side, Albania are always among the teams that finish on the lower positions on the table. They have played good on the first five matches of the World Cup qualifications, but then they have lost plenty of matches in the later part of the qualifications. Often they are showing good performances on their home matches, and they are very weak on the matches played away from home. The last matches they have played date from June. Albania won against San Marino, but lost to Hungary, both away from home. Here are the results:

08.06.2014. San Marino - Albania 0:3
04.06.2014. Hungary - Albania 1:0

The coach Giovanni De Biasi has all of his better players available ahead of this match.

Probable line-up: Berisha – Lila, Cana, Mavraj, Agolli – Xhaka, Bulku – Abrashi, Gashi, Vajushi – Salihi

The last mutual matches between these two sides date from 2008/09. Portugal won the away match, but they failed to get the victory at home. Here are the results:

06.06.2009. Albania - Portugal 1:2
15.10.2008. Portugal - Albania 0:0

Read full post »

Germany vs Scotland 07-09-2014 UEFA Euro Qualifying

Germany vs Scotland
Competition: UEFA Euro Qualifying, Group D
Match date: Sunday, 7 September 2014
Kick Off Time: 19:45 BST - 18:45 GMT
Venue: Signal Iduna Park, Dortmund, Germany

Germany lost the first match after the World Cup final 2:4 at home on Wednesday, and it was Yes! Argentina who beat them. Actually the Germans started to this friendly with only four finalists. Captain Philipp Lahm, Miroslav Klose and Per Mertesacker retired after the World Cup, the new captain Bastian Schweinsteiger, Sami Khedira, Jérôme Boateng, Mats Hummels, Mesut Özil and Shkodran Mustafi were all injured. So it was not a big surprise that the newly constituted defence had huge problems, conceded four goals within the first 50 minutes. However, against Scotland we will see a different German side, Jérôme Boateng will return, also Thomas Müller and Mario Götze will play from the beginning. Because of the injury problems coach Joachim Löw nominated Sidney Sam (Schalke) for the match on Sunday.
Scotland team could not qualify for a major tournament since the World Cup 1998. The Scottish clubs currently face difficult times, but since Gordon Strachan has become national coach in January 2013 the ‘Bravehearts’ appear to make progress, are currently unbeaten for six games. Actually they kept clean sheets in four of the last five games, won friendlies in Poland and Norway 1:0 recently, also gained a 2:2 in Nigeria’s last World Cup test in May. This match has been Scotland’s last run-out so far, since then the two key midfielders Robert Snodgrass and captain Scott Brown became injured, will not be not be able to play in Dortmund as well as the defenders Andrew Robertson and Christophe Berra. Several players of Gordon’s squad already displayed good form so far this season, striker Steven Naismith even scored in all three Premier League games for Everton while Chris Martin marked the 1:0 winner for Fulham last week.

Probable lineups:
Germany: Neuer – Groskreutz, Howedes, J. Boateng, Durm – Kramer, T. Kroos – T. Muller, Reus, Schurrle – M. Gotze
Scotland: McGregor – Hutton, Hanley, R. Martin, Whittaker – D. Fletcher, McArthur – Maloney, J. Morrison, Bannan – Naismith

Germany last 5 matches:
30/06/14 Germany E 2 – 1 Algeria
04/07/14 France 0 – 1 Germany
08/07/14 Brazil 1 – 7 Germany
13/07/14 Germany E 1 – 0 Argentina
03/09/14 Germany 2 – 4 Argentina

Scotland last 5 matches:
15/10/13 Scotland 2 – 0 Croatia
15/11/13 Scotland 0 – 0 United States
19/11/13 Norway 0 – 1 Scotland
05/03/14 Poland 0 – 1 Scotland
28/05/14 Nigeria 2 – 2 Scotland

Read full post »

Match Everton v Chelsea Premiere League - 30-Aug-2014

 

Everton are currenty on the 10th position in the Premier League. They have drawn both opening matches against Leicester away from home and against Arsenal at home. On both matches Everton had the lead until the final couple of minutes, but both, Leicester and Arsenal scored a late goals to deny Everton the victory. Steven Naismith scored a goal in both matches so far and he is the team's leading goalscorer. Aiden McGeady and Seamus Coleman added one goal each on the previous two matches. Here are the results from the opening two rounds:

 

23.08.2014. Everton - Arsenal 2:2
16.08.2014. Leicester - Everton 2:2

 

The coach Roberto Martínez has four injured players. The defender Bryan Oviedo, midfielders Steven Pienaar and Ross Barkley and striker Arouna Kone will miss this game. In addition, the striker Romelu Lukaku is doubtful and Christian Atsu is ineligible to face his parent club.

Probable line-up: Howard, Baines, Distin, Jagielka, Coleman, Barry, McCart hy, McGeady, Naismith, Mirallas, Lukaku

 

Chelsea have shown very good performances in the opening two rounds. They have won both matches quite comfortably against Burnley away from home and against Leicester at home. New addition to the team, striker Diego Costa has netted a goal on both matches. It is a handicap for  the Blues that Diego Costa got injury and won't play here. However, Chelsea will be looking to extend the winning streak in the match against Everton, but the players know that won't be an easy job. Here are the results from the opening two rounds:

 

23.08.2014. Chelsea - Leicester 2:0
18.08.2014. Burnley - Chelsea 1:3

The coach Jose Mourinho can't count on Diego Costa who got injured. Also

Andre Schurrle is doubtful.

Probable line-up: Courtois, Azpilicueta, Terry, Cahill, Ivanovic, Fabregas, Matic, Hazard, Oscar, Willian, Drogba

 

Both teams won the home matches in the previous season. Here are the results:

 

22.02.2014. Chelsea - Everton 1:0
14.09.2013. Everton - Chelsea 1:0

Read full post »

Match Arsenal v Besiktas Uefa Champions League 27-Aug-2014

Arsenal welcome Besiktas at their Emirates Stadium in the Champions League play-off round, second leg. The two sides played out a goalless draw in Istanbul, meaning that we are about to see an interesting encounter in London on Wednesday night.

 

Arsenal owners did well to keep hold of their key players in the summer transfer window and their decision is already proving fruitful. The Gunners lifted the Community Shield trophy and they are still unbeaten in the new Premier League campaign. On the other hand, Arsene Wenger’s team are trying to secure their place in the Champions League group stage for yet another term, but they need to beat Turkish side Besiktas at home ground if they are to meet their goal. The two sides played out the 0-0 draw in the first leg, meaning that the Premier League team need to go for a win at their Emirates Stadium on Wednesday night. Newly-signed attacker Alexis Sanchez has yet to find his form, but seeing that Giroud and Sanogo are likely to miss the return leg, the Chilean footballer is likely to lead the line for the hosts against Besiktas.

 

Aaron Ramsey is out of contention due to suspension, while Walcott, Sanogo, Arteta and Giroud all miss the return leg through injuries. Gibbs and Koscielny are both doubtful.

 

Probable starting line-up (4-2-3-1): Szczesny – Debuchy, Mertesacker, Koscielny, Monreal – Flamini, Wilshere – Chamberlain, Ozil, Cazorla – Sanchez.

 

Besiktas were more than fortunate to book their place in the Champions League qualifiers. Their local rivals Fenerbahce were banned from taking part in the elite competition and the Kara Kartallar are now on the quest to secure their spot in the Champions League group stage for the first time since the 2008/2009 season. The Turkish outfit totally outplayed Feyenoord in the two-legged tie, but eliminating Arsenal in the Champions League qualifiers is easier said than done. Slaven Bilic’s men, though, managed to keep a clean sheet (0-0) in the play-off round, first leg, but they need to find the net at the Emirates Stadium if they are to turn their dream into reality. Both sides looked very solid at the back in Istanbul and seeing that Arsene Wenger faces difficulties up front, I do not believe that we are about to see a real football festival on Wednesday evening. Taking everything into account, under 2.5 goals bet should be considered this time out.

Necip Uysal has yet to overcome his respective injury, but the good news is that Ersan Gulum and Atiba Hutchinson return to contention. Former Chelsea striker Demba Ba will lead the line for the visitors.

 

Probable starting line-up (4-2-3-1): Zengin – Koybasi, Franco, Gulum, Motta – Hutchinson, Kavlak – Pektemek, Ozyakup, Sahan – Ba.

Read full post »

Match Arsenal - Crystal Palace Premiere League 16/08/2014

Arsenal - Crystal Palace  
Competition: Premiere League
Match date: Saturday August -16, 2014
Kick Off Time: 11:45 GMT- Swansea 
 

High-flying Arsenal will be looking to build on the Community Shield 3-0 win over Manchester City when they welcome Crystal Palace in their Premier League opener. Arsene Wenger’s men look impressive at the moment, but the Eagles should not be underestimated.

 

Arsenal finally started to win trophies. After winning the FA Cup title last season, the capital club did remarkably well to lift yet another silverware as they outplayed Manchester City in the Community Shield. The Gunners crushed the Citizens 3-0 and it seems as if Arsene Wenger’s team will look much sharper in the 2014/2015 with the likes of Alexis Sanchez, Mathieu Debuchy, Joel Campbell and Calum Chambers in the squad. Arsenal are desperate to win the Premier League title as it has been nine years since they last won the trophy in the national championship and I believe that the time has come for Arsene Wenger’s men to join the title race. The Gunners welcome Crystal Palace in their opener and seeing that over the years the capital club have turned their Emirates Stadium into a real fortress, home win should be considered this time out.

 

Lukas Podolski, Mesut Ozil and Per Mertesacker are unlikely to be risked, while Laurent Koscielny is likely to keep his place in the starting line-up despite suffering a knock in Community Shield.

 

Crystal Palace were regarded as one of the main contenders for the relegation at the start of the 2013/2014 Premier League campaign, but then a “miracle happened”. Tony Pulis was appointed as the team’s new manager and the Eagles suddenly started to produce splendid performances in the English top flight. Even top table sides struggled when facing Crystal Palace and the capital club totally deserved to finish the last season in 11th position in the standings, no less than 12 points clear of bottom three. It has to be noted that Fraizer Campbell has joined the club in the summer transfer window and together with Brede Hangeland he is their biggest reinforcement. Nonetheless, Tony Pulis’ men face an uphill task in their Premier League opener, they face Arsenal in the local derby at the Emirates Arena and I do not believe that the visitors are capable of finding the net against the Gunners as they often struggle on the travels. Arsenal are after their third consecutive clean sheet, speaking of matches against Crystal Palace.

 

Damian Delaney and Jonathan Williams are likely to miss the Arsenal game with injuries, while Adrian Mariappa has overcome his respective injury.

 

Probable starting line-up Arsenal  (4-2-3-1): Szczesny – Debuchy, Koscielny, Chambers, Gibbs – Arteta, Wilshere – Ramsey, Cazorla, Sanchez – Giroud.

 

 

Probable starting line-up Crystal Palace  (4-4-2): Speroni - Ward, Hangeland, Dann, Delaney - Puncheon, Jedinak, Ledley, Bolasie - Chamakh, Campbell.

 

 

 

Read full post »

Real Madrid vs Sevilla 2-0 ~ All Goals & Highlights Super Cup 12/08/2014

  Real Madrid vs Sevilla
Competition: UEFA Super Cup
Match date: Tuesday, August 12, 2014
Kick Off Time: 19:45 BST - 18:45 GMT
Venue: Cardiff City Stadium, Cardiff, United Kingdom

 

Real Madrid: Casillas – Carvajal, Pepe, S.Ramos, Marcelo – Modric, T.Kroos – Bale, J.Rodriguez, C.Ronaldo – Benzema.

FC Sevilla: Beto – Figueiras, Fazio, Carrico, Navarro – Iborra, KRYCHOWIAK – Vitolo, D.Suarez – Aspas, Bacca.

 

Real Madrid vs Sevilla1-0 (Cristiano Ronaldo   goal vs Sevilla '30)

 Real Madrid vs Sevilla 2-0 (Cristiano Ronaldo   goal v Sevilla '49)

 

Read full post »

Real Madrid vs Sevilla Super Cup Uefa 12-08-2014

 

Real Madrid vs Sevilla
Competition: UEFA Super Cup
Match date: Tuesday, August 12, 2014
Kick Off Time: 19:45 BST - 18:45 GMT
Venue: Cardiff City Stadium, Cardiff, United Kingdom

Real Madrid team finally made it to win the much desired 10th title at the Champions League. La decima is theirs and with this win, they qualified for the UEFA Super Cup final 2014 in Cardiff. Another chance for another title for this prestigious club. They know how it feels like to win the Supercup, though only few players of the current team were there when it happened for the last time. In 2002, after a win against Bayer Leverkusen in the CL-Final it was Zidane, Carlos and some others who raised the trophy in the end. In total it is Real Madrids fourth time in the Super cup final. Back in 1998 they lost to Chelsea FC with 0:1, and in 2000 Galatasaray were the stronger team and made a 2:1 after over time. The last and only win, as already mentioned, happened in 2002 with a 3:1 win over Feyenoord. All these games occurred in Monaco at the Stade Louis II. It will be a special game for Gareth Bale who was born in Cardiff and who will be motivated to win this title at home. Against FC Sevilla, Madrid was able to win 90 times in 172 meetings. Loosing only 53 times.
It was a very successful last year for the FC Sevilla. At the Primera Division they were able to capture a good fifth position and to qualify for the Euro League again. How it feels to win the Euro League trophy, is nothing strange to them. As they won the final against Benfica Lissabon in the last season 2013/14. After a hard way into the final the penalty shootout was needed to find a winner. And Sevilla were the stronger team back then, as they won with 4:2. This victory also meant a ticket for the Super cup final 2014. Just as Real Madrid – Sevilla was able to win the Super cup once. This happened in 2006 when they beat the FC Barcelona with 3:0. The following year they were also in the final, but this time lost 1:3 against AC Milan. Milans manager back then was Madrids current manager Carlo Ancelotti. In ten European meetings with Spanish opponents, Sevilla only managed to win three times, they lost four times and drew three times. In addition, manager Unai Emery was already playing 13 times against Real Madrid with three different teams, and his teams only won three times and lost nine times.

Probable lineups:

Real Madrid: Casillas – Carvajal, Pepe, S.Ramos, Marcelo – Modric, T.Kroos – Bale, J.Rodriguez, C.Ronaldo – Benzema.

FC Sevilla: Beto – Figueiras, Fazio, Carrico, Navarro – Iborra, KRYCHOWIAK – Vitolo, D.Suarez – Aspas, Bacca.

 Channel

Iran  ZDF Germany ,STAR TV ,Nederland ITV 4 ,Digi Sport ,beIN SPORTS 1 HD,SRF ZWEI HD SRF ZWEI HD,RSI LA 2 RSI LA 2, Canal+ Liga Canal+ Liga HD

TEN Sports, Fox Soccer 2GO Sky Go, Sky Go Extra

Read full post »

Liverpool vs Borussia Dortmund 4-0 ~ All Goals & Highlights 10-08-2014

Liverpool vs Borussia Dortmund
Competition: Friendly
Match date: 10 August 2014
Venue: Anfield, Liverpool

Liverpool continuing their positive preseason trend by snatching another impressive friendly win, this time they defeated Dortmund 4-0 at Anfield.
Eager to show their strength after Luis Suarez's departure, Liverpool immediately took control of that tie as they went one goal up after 10 minutes from Daniel Sturridge's effort.
Brendan Rodgers' men doubling their lead three minutes later, this time from Dejan Lovren's fine header from Steven Gerrard's corner.
After the break, Liverpool kept on pushing forward as they eventually netted a third goal from Philippe Coutinho's fine finish. Already leading 3-0, the Reds were not done yet though as they added a fourth goal on 61 minutes through Jordan Henderson.

Liverpool - Borussia Dortmund (Friendly)
Daniel Sturridge 10' // Dejan Lovren 14' // Philippe Coutinho 49' // Jordan Henderson 61' 

Read full post »

Stade de Reims vs Paris Saint-Germain 2-2 highlights 08/08/2014

Stade Reims vs Paris Saint Germain
Competition: French Ligue 1
Match date: 08 August 2014
Kick Off Time: 18:30 GMT
Venue: Stade Auguste Delaune, Reims, France

 

  Paris Saint Germain ; Gols Zlatan Ibrahimovic(7),(63)

 

Stade Reims;Prince Oniangue(22),Antoine Devaux(34)

 

 

Stade Reims: Agassa – Mandi, Weber, Tacalfred, Signorino – Oniangue, Bourillon, Devaux – Moukandjo, Charbonnier, Diego

Paris Saint-Germain: Sirigu – Aurier, David Luiz, Thiago Silva, Digne – Matuidi, Cabaye, Verratti – Lucas, Ibrahimovic, Cavani

 

Read full post »

Stade Reims vs Paris Saint Germain French Ligue 1 , 08 Aug 2014

Stade Reims vs Paris Saint Germain
Competition: French Ligue 1
Match date: 08 August 2014
Kick Off Time: 18:30 GMT
Venue: Stade Auguste Delaune, Reims, France

Reims finished the last years season 2013/14 on an eleventh position. They were able to collect 48 points and played a pretty average season with 12 wins 12 draws and 14 losses. The distance between them and the relegation ranks were 8 points. They will now meet the reigning champions in game one. If this is an advantage is at least questionable. Last season playing with PSG they lost twice with 0:3. But there is no need for desperation, the last win against PSG dates from 2013, when they were able to beat them with 1:0 playing at home. However the last test matches have not been terrific. Against the FC Loriont they played 1:1 just as against the FC Metz some days before. They even lost one of their last three games against the fifth league club – ASNL with 0:1.

The French champion of the past two years – PSG – has not yet finished its transfer-plans for the new season. The questions that remain still are: who else will leave the club and who will be transferred to PSG? Maybe Angel di Maria? At least the international press assumes this. But in fact there is no time for questioning, the French season kicks off on Friday the 8th and Paris will have to travel to Stade Reims. Therefore they will be eager to win this first encounter and to have a good start in the new season. Actually they already won their first title at the „Trophée des Champions 2014“ against EA Guingamp with 2:0. Superstar Ibrahimovic scored twice and the match was almost won after 20 minutes. In addition PSG had to play in Hongkong against Kitchee, where they also won with a fabulous 6:2. Some days before Nicce was beaten with a 2:1. They seem to be well prepared for the start of the Ligue 1 season 2014/15.

 

Probable lineups:

Stade Reims: Agassa – Mandi, Weber, Tacalfred, Signorino – Oniangue, Bourillon, Devaux – Moukandjo, Charbonnier, Diego

Paris Saint-Germain: Sirigu – Aurier, David Luiz, Thiago Silva, Digne – Matuidi, Cabaye, Verratti – Lucas, Ibrahimovic, Cavani

 

Read full post »

Celtic Vs Legia Warszawa 0 2 Champions League 06/08/2014

  Celtic FC vs Legia Warsaw - Champions League 2014-15
BT Murrayfield Stadium, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Wednesday, 06 August 2014 20:45

Celtic: Forster – Lustig, van Dijk, Mulgrew, Izaguirre – Johansen, Kayal – McGregor, Commons, Berget – Pukki.

Legia Warsaw: Kuciak – Broz, Astiz, Rzezniczak, Brzyski – Vrdoljak, Jodlowiec – Zyro, Duda, Kucharczyk – Radovic.

Celtic vs Legia Warszawa match ended with 0-2scoreline in Champions League 2014.

Celtic vs Legia Warszawa 0-2 Highlights Video Clips Champions League 2014

 Match Stats:
Full Time Score : Celtic 0-2 Legia Warszawa.
Celtic 0-2 Legia Warszawa Goals
Celtic vs Legia Warszawa 0-1 ( Michal Zyro goal )
Celtic vs Legia Warszawa 0-2 ( Michal Kucharczyk goal )

Read full post »

Match Celtic FC vs Legia Warsaw - Champions League 06/08/2014

Celtic FC vs Legia Warsaw - Champions League 2014-15
BT Murrayfield Stadium, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Wednesday, 06 August 2014 20:45

Celtic saw their Champions League hopes take a devastating blow in the first-leg, as they were outplayed all over the pitch in a 4:1 defeat. A red card to Efe Ambrose on the stroke of halftime meant Celtic needed to do some damage control in the second half. But unfortunately for new manager Ronny Deila, his boys were simply off the pace in the Polish capital. The lone bright spot for the Scottish club was the fact that they didn’t lose by even more, as Ivica Vrdoljak missed two penalty kicks with the latter one being saved by coveted goalkeeper Fraser Forster. This result will give fans even more reason to call for activity in the transfer market, and perhaps after their performance against Legia, those calls are completely warranted and necessary. But the hosts do still have a glimmer of hope behind a critical away goal and a return to the friendlier confines of Scotland. Celtic went unconquered at home last season in the Scottish Premiership, winning 16 of their 19 games, and while improbable, it wouldn’t be a farfetched proposition of them turning around this deficit in Edinburgh.

Legia Warsaw team stated their intent with a commanding performance in the first-leg, treating their home fans to a 4:1 thrashing of the Scottish champions. Veteran attacker Miroslav Radovic equalized the match just two minutes after going down in the early going and then fired his side in front ten minutes from halftime. The Serbian led the Polish champions in goals last season, netting 13 times in league play (4th place in the rankings), but he also demonstrated his more generous side when setting up the third goal for his teammate Micha Zyro, and the rout was on. If a negative can be taken from the match, it was the two missed penalty kicks from Ivica Vrdoljak, but all is forgiven when your teammates bail you out with a masterful performance. But the visitors must stay grounded here, as Celtic are very good at home in front of their rabid fan base. It wouldn’t be surprising to see Norwegian manager Henning Berg opt for a more cautious approach with such a large lead, bunkering back in defence and hoping to grab a decisive goal on the counter attack.

 

Probable lineups Celtic: Forster – Lustig, van Dijk, Mulgrew, Izaguirre – Johansen, Kayal – McGregor, Commons, Berget – Pukki.

Probable lineups Legia Warsaw: Kuciak – Broz, Astiz, Rzezniczak, Brzyski – Vrdoljak, Jodlowiec – Zyro, Duda, Kucharczyk – Radovic

Read full post »

Manchester United vs Liverpool 3-1 Final International Champions Cup 2014

Liverpool vs Manchester United
Competition: Guinness Cup Final
Match date: 5 August 2014
Venue: Sun Life Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida

Manchester United defeated Liverpool by 3-1 after coming from behind when Steven Gerrard put reds 1-0 up with a penalty, Ronney Mata and Lindgard scored for United. Match Highlights blow.

Manchester United 3-1 Liverpool (Guinness Cup - Final):
Goals: Liverpool – Steven Gerrard (pen) 14'
Manchester United – Wayne Rooney 55' // Juan Mata 57' // Anders Lindegaard 88'

Manchester United starting lineup vs Liverpool 2014:- De Gea, Evans, Smalling, Jones, Valencia , Herrera, Fletcher, Young, Mata, Rooney Hernandez.

Liverpool FC starting XI vs Manchester United 2014:- Mignolet, Kelly, Johnson, Skrtel, Sakho, Gerrard, Allen, Henderson, Coutinho, Lambert, Sterling.

 

Read full post »

Nice vs Barcelona 1-1 All Goals & Highlights Friendly Match 02/08/2014

Nice vs Barcelona

Competition:Friendly Match  Match date: 02 Aug 2014

Nice vs Barcelona match ended with 1-1 scoreline in Club Friendly 2014.

Nice vs Barcelona 1-1 Highlights Video Clips Club Friendly 2014

Match Stats:
Full Time Score : Nice 1-1 Barcelona.
Nice 1-1 Barcelona Goals
Nice vs Barcelona 1-0 (Dario Cvitanich scored goal vs Barcelona)
Nice vs Barcelona 1-1 ( Xavi Hernandez scored goal vs Nice)

Read full post »

Legia Warsaw vs Celtic 4-1 -Match Highlights Champions League 30/07/2014

 

Legia Warsaw 4 - Celtic 1

Champions League qualifying third round first-leg

Pepsi Arena

Wed 30th Jul 7.45pm

Attendance:

Referee: P. van Boekel

 

Legia Warsaw: Radovic (10, 36), Zyro (84), Kosecki (90)

 

Celtic:McGregor (8)

 

Legia Warsaw: Kuciak; Astiz, Rzezniczak, Vrdoljak, Broz; Jodlowiec, Radovic, Zyro, Brzyski; Saganowski; Kucharczyk.

 

Celtic: Forster; Lustig, Ambrose, van Dijk, Izaguirre; Johansen, Mulgrew; Griffiths, Commons, McGregor; Pukki.

Read full post »

Dundee Vs Manchester City 2-0 All Goals & Highlights Friendly Match

Dens Park, Dundee - International Friendly- 13 July, 2014 - 16.00 UK KO

Man City started their pre-season campaign in a disappointing fashion after losing their first match against Dundee. Still having several players out because of international duties, Man City put on a pretty solid squad for that game including two new players, Willy Cabellero along with Fernando.
However, lack of match fitness was shown from City as they found themselves struggling and eventually conceding a goal on 27 minutes from Gary Harkins' rebound effort.
The home team doubling their lead few minutes before half time break thanks to an own goal from Dedryk Boyata.
City tried to improve their game in the second period, but none of their efforts were able to get them back into that tie.

Dundee 1-0: Gary Harkins goal (27').
Dundee 2-0: Dedryk Boyata goal (38').

undee starting lineup vs MCFC 2014:- Adam, Irvine, McPake, Dyer, Konrad, Thomson, McBride, Harkins, McAlister, Cadogan, Tankulic.

Man City starting XI vs Dundee 2014:- Caballero, Kolarov, Boyata, Bossaerts, Denayer, Navas, Rodwell, Fernando, Jovetic, Guidetti, Huws.
 

Read full post »

Lionel Messi wins Golden Ball as World Cup's top player

Lionel Messi may not have led his nation to World Cup glory, but he was still named the best player in Brazil. 

Messi was awarded the Golden Ball as the World Cup's top individual, an award decided by the FIFA Technical Study Group

 

Messi beat Germany's Thomas Muller (Silver Ball winner) and the Netherlands' Arjen Robben (Bronze Ball winner) to claim the award, which he'll add to his growing list of individual accolades. A rather stoic, unimpressed Messi collected his trophy after 120 grueling minutes, during which his Argentina came up short in the World Cup final, losing 1-0 to Germany in extra time. 

 

 

Messi had by far the best individual World Cup of his career, scoring four goals in the competition, all of which came in the group stage and put Argentina on track to a 3-0-0 Group F record. He assisted on Angel di Maria's extra-time winner against Switzerland in the round of 16 and also had a hand in Gonzalo Higuain's eventual winner against Belgium in the quarterfinals. Against Germany, Messi missed a great chance just after halftime, pulling his left-footed, close-range strike wide of the post. 

In injury time of the second half of extra time, Messi had a chance to find an equalizer, but he put his 25-yard free-kick attempt well high of the mark.

Read full post »

Germany vs Argentina 1-0 All Goals Final World Cup brazil 2014

  Sunday, July 13, 2014  Germany 1 0 Argentina
Estadio Maracana, Rio de Janeiro

MARIO GOTZE -112

Germany ( 4-3-3): Neuer; Lahm, Hummels, Boateng, Höwedes; Khedira, Schweinsteiger, Kroos; Özil, Müller, Götze.

Argentina ( 4-2-3-1): Romero; Zabaleta, F Fernández, Garay, Rojo; E Perez, Mascherano; Palacio, Messi, Lavezzi; Higuaín

Read full post »

World Cup 2014 ITALY vs COSTA RICA 0-1 20/06/2014

 

Match Italy 0 - 1 Costa Rica

 

 Groupe D

Arena Pernambuco, Recife

 

Costa Rica

Bryan Ruiz  44'

Italy ( 4-5-1): Buffon; Chiellini, Barzagli, Paletta, Darmian; De Rossi, Verratti, Pirlo, Marchisio, Candreva; Balotelli.
 

Costa Rica ( 4-4-1-1): Navas; Gonzalez, Umana, Duarte, Gamboa; Bolanos, Diaz, Tejeda, Borges; Ruiz; Campbell.

Read full post »

Spain's reign ends as Chile prove too hot to handle

 Holders Spain were eliminated from the World Cup on Wednesday when their 2-0 Group B defeat by Chile brought an end to one of the greatest dynasties of the modern game.

On the day when Spain's King Carlos also signed his abdication papers, Spain's footballers left their throne as goals from Eduardo Vargas after 20 minutes and Charles Aranguiz two minutes before halftime earned Chile a stunning victory.

They advanced to the last 16 along with the Netherlands and Australia go out with Spain.

The Dutch, who beat Spain 5-1, and Chile each have six points and they play each other in Sao Paulo next Monday. Spain face Australia in Curitiba bidding to avoid finishing bottom.

Spain became the third champions in the last four World Cups to be eliminated at the first hurdle and their departure will almost certainly end the long international careers of the ageing greats who won the 2008 European Championship and their first World Cup in South Africa four years ago.

Coach Vicente del Bosque is also unlikely to keep his job.

Chile, who had never beaten Spain in 10 previous meetings, looked sharp, composed and confident from the start and even faster and more fluid in the second half.

Although Spain's Xabi Alonso had a shot saved in the 15th minute, Chile took the lead five minutes later.

A counter-attack on the right set up Aranguiz to provide the cross for Vargas who danced around goalkeeper Iker Casillas before firing home with defender Sergio Ramos arriving too late to stop him.

Casillas, who had a poor game in Spain's mauling by the Dutch, was at fault for the second goal, punching an Alexis Sanchez free kick straight back to Aranguiz who swept the ball past Casillas with a spinning shot with the outside of his right foot.

Read full post »

Costa Rica fight back to stun Uruguay 3-1

Two goals in four dramatic second-half minutes set lowly Costa Rica on their way to a deserved 3-1 victory over Uruguay on Saturday in the biggest upset of the World Cup so far.

The Uruguayans took the lead in the Group D clash thanks to a disputed Edinson Cavani penalty midway through the first half before the Central Americans turned the match on its head after the break.

Young striker Joel Campbell chested down a cross from the right and slammed a low shot past keeper Fernando Muslera after 54 minutes.

Then centre back Oscar Duarte gave Costa Rica the lead in the 57th minute with a brave diving header at the back post from a Christian Bolanos free kick.

Marco Urena completed the remarkable victory with a third in the 84th minute, silencing an army of sky blue-clad Uruguayan fans in Fortaleza's Castelao arena.

Uruguay's misery was compounded in stoppage time when their defender Maxi Pereira became the first man to be sent off at this World Cup.

It had all looked so different in the first half when Diego Lugano went down in the box under pressure from Costa Rica defender Junior Diaz as he tried to get on the end of a Diego Forlan free kick.

Diaz clearly had his arms around the waist of his opponent but even so the Uruguayan captain made a meal of the challenge.

Nevertheless, German referee Felix Brych pointed to the spot and Cavani slammed home the penalty.

Uruguay face England in their next group match while the jubilant Costa Ricans, who have only once made it out of the group stages at a World Cup, will take on Italy.

Read full post »

Colombia's focus key in win over Greece - Pekerman

 Colombia kept their focus when the going got tough against Greece on Saturday, coach Jose Pekerman said, and got their reward with a 3-0 Group C victory on their return to the World Cup finals after a 16-year absence.

"It is a dream come true for me," the Argentine said after a flamboyant attacking display.

"We wanted to be focused, play inspiring football with good skills. My players met all the objectives we had set out and that is very positive for going forward in this competition.

"This is how we planned this match. Some things turned out the way we wanted, some things didn't, but we were extremely focused and showed that we are here to play a good World Cup."

The South Americans, one of the dark horses in this tournament after clinching second spot in the qualifiers, had to soak up considerable pressure after taking a fifth minute lead through Pablo Amero.

Even after going two behind to Teofilo Gutierrez's goal just before the hour the Greeks kept pushing forward and created plenty of chances before James Rodriguez scored a third in stoppage time.

"We could have kept our cool a bit more and defended a bit better," Pekerman told reporters. "But this result is really important if we want to remain in the tournament. We showed that even when it is hard we keep focused."

Pekerman said Colombia, who next play Ivory Coast and then take on Japan, had "waited a very long time to play in the World Cup".

"I tried to keep my players calm and inspire them because they are new to this.

"This win was very good for us because Greece are very experienced and at times there was a big difference between us and them because they were playing really well.

"What I have learned today is that we have to keep calm and believe in ourselves. Sometimes we did not react fast enough and Greece had several chances.

"But even when Greece were playing really well and we kept losing possession we still stuck to our strategy and our gameplan. All my players played the role they had to. They have done exactly what we expected of them," he said

Read full post »

Germany vs Armenia 6-1 All Goals and Highlights Friendly Match 2014 | Wo...

Germany vs Armenia
Competition: International Friendly
Match date: 6 June 2014
Kick Off Time: 19:45 GMT
Venue: Coface Arena, Mainz 

 Germany put six past Armenia in the second half, but the game is marred by an ankle injury to Marco Reus that threatens his place at the World Cup.

Germany 6-1 Armenia (Friendly):

52' Andre Schuerrle 1-0 // 70' 1-1 (pen.) Henrik Mkhitaryan // 72' Lukas Podolski 2-1 // 73' Benedikt Hoewedes 3-1 // 76' Miroslav Klose 4-1 // 82' Mario Goetze 5-1 // 90' Mario Goetze 6-1

Germany Team Lineups:Germany starting 11: R. Weidenfeller, P. Lahm, P. Mertesacker, J. Boateng, B. Howedes, M. Hummels, S. Khedira, T. Kroos, M. Reus, T. Muller, A. Schurrle.

Germany Substitutes: L. Podolski, M. Ozil, B. Schweinsteiger, K. Grobkreutz, M. Klose, M. Götze, C. Kramer, E. Durm, J. Draxler, M. Ginter, R. Zieler, M. Neuer

Read full post »

Gervinho and Drogba fire Ivory Coast to friendly win

Goals from Gervinho and Didier Drogba gave Ivory Coast a comfortable 2-1 win over El Salvador in a friendly in Frisco, Texas on Wednesday.

Ivory Coast, who will face Colombia, Greece and Japan in Group C at the World Cup, moved the ball with confidence and purpose and grabbed an early lead in the ninth minute.

Drogba, dropping deep, threaded the ball through to Gervinho who coolly rounded El Salvador keeper Derby Carrillo and slotted home.

The roles reversed for Ivory Coast's second goal, three minutes before the interval, when the impressive Gervinho burst down the left flank and crossed low to Drogba who slid the ball home.

With the game firmly in hand, Sabri Lamouchi's team were content to play possession football while El Salvador struggled to create chances.

It was not until the 73rd minute that Ivory Coast keeper Boubacar Barry was truly tested when Darwin Ceren unleashed a left foot drive which was pushed wide.

Two minutes later, El Salvador were awarded a penalty after Kolo Toure recklessly charged into Jonathan Aguilla as they challenged for a header and subsitute Arturo Alvarez converted the spot kick.

Read full post »

Perisic double gives Croatia 2-1 win over Mali

 

Croatia midfielder Ivan Perisic scored a goal in each half to give the Balkan country a 2-1 win over Mali in their home send-off to next month's World Cup in Brazil.

The Croatians, who will also meet Australia on Friday in Salvador before opening their Group A campaign against hosts Brazil in Sao Paulo on June 12, played at walking pace against the African side as coach Niko Kovac fielded a makeshift formation in front of 15,000 fans.

Left wing Perisic enjoyed one of his best international performances and fired Croatia ahead in the 15th minute, curling a superb shot with his weaker, right foot into the top left corner after a defence-splitting pass by Ivan Rakitic.

Perisic doubled the lead shortly after the hour when he stabbed home a Rakitic corner which was headed into his path by striker Ivica Olic before substitute Fantamady Diarra pulled one back for the visitors.

Croatia's influential playmaker Luka Modric, who won the Champions League with Real Madrid last Saturday, received a standing ovation when he came off the bench in the last 15 minutes.

"It was a good test against a physical opponent while our legs were a bit heavy after three weeks of hard training in the build-up," Perisic told Croatian television.

Kovac, who was expected to name his final squad later on Saturday, said: "We know what 23 players are going to Brazil."

"We are happy with result and commitment given that there are some weary legs out there.

"The first goal is exactly the kind of attacking we are looking for, a direct through ball leaving the scorer with a sitter.

"The movement of the ball wasn't quite as sharp as we would have liked but there is still enough time to add the finishing touches."

Read full post »

Algeria sweep aside Armenia in festive atmosphere

 

Algeria belied their status as World Cup outsiders blasting three first-half goals on their way to a comprehensive 3-1 win over Armenia in a festive atmosphere in Sion on Saturday.

Around 12,000 drum-banging, chanting Algerian fans turned the tiny Tourbillon in the usually sleepy Swiss Alpine town into a cauldron, appearing to unnerve their opponents in the first half.

Essaid Belkalem, Nabil Ghilas and Islam Slimani scored before halftime as Algeria gave a performance which suggested they could more than hold their own against Belgium, Russia and South Korea in Group H at the Brazil finals.

Bathed in evening sunshine and surrounded by snow-capped peaks, the Tourbillon provided a stunning setting for a match which saw Leicester City midfielder Riyad Mahrez make an impressive debut for Algeria.

Defender Belkalem, who struggled to get playing time at Watford last season, put Algeria ahead in the 13th minute, turning the ball in from close range following a corner as Rafik Halliche's run distracted the defence.

The Fennec Foxes increased their lead nine minutes later when Mahrez slipped the ball to Ghilas on his right and the Porto player rifled an emphatic finish into the roof of the net.

Algeria continued to pull the Armenians apart with lots of neat moves from the midfield trio of Mehdi Lacen, Yacine Brahimi and Adlene Guedioura.

French-raised Brahimi, in particular, brought the crowd to their feet with his cheeky skills.

Slimani missed two chances to put Algeria ahead but the Sporting forward finally converted three minutes before halftime, heading in the rebound after Ghilas's header had struck the bar.

Armenia, 33rd in the FIFA rankings compared to Algeria's 25, pulled one back within a minute of the re-start when halftime substitute Artur Sarkisov burst clear and beat Mohamed Lamine Zemmamouche with a low shot.

The game went off the boil in the second half although substitute El Arabi Soudani brought the crowd to their feet with a weaving run but was denied by Roman Berezovski's save.

Read full post »

England vs Peru 3 0 All Goals & Highlights Friendly Match 30/05/2014

England vs Peru - Competition: International Friendly

Match date: 30 May 2014

 

Venue: Wembley England 3-0 Peru (Friendly)

 

32' Daniel Sturridge 1-0 // 65' Gary Cahill 2-0 // 70' Phil Jagielka 3-0

England national side showed positive signs ahead of their World Cup 2014 preparation as Roy Hodgson's men grabbed a comfortable win over Peru in a friendly fixture on Friday.

Staging the tie at Wembley stadium, Three Lions immediately took hold of things and their positive approach was eventually rewarded when Daniel Sturridge puts them in front on 32 minutes.

After the break, England increased their performance to provide more entertainment for their loyal fans and that effort turned out successful as they added two more goals during that second period.

Chelsea's defender, Gary Cahill snatched his side's second with his effort on 65 minutes, before Phil Jagielka sealed off his side's 3-0 with with his goal five minutes later.

England starting lineup vs Peru 2014 friendly:- Hart, Johnson, Cahill, Jagielka, Baines, Gerrard, Henderson, Lallana, Rooney, Welbeck, Sturridge
Peru starting XI v England 2014 friendly:- Fernandez, Rodriguez, Callens, Ramos, Advincula, Yotun, Cruzado, Ballon, Ramirez, Deza, Carrillo

Read full post »

Torres shines for Spain in warm-up win against Bolivia

Spain's striker Fernando Torres made a strong case for a World Cup place when he capped an impressive performance with a well-taken penalty as their depleted side strolled to a 2-0 friendly win over Bolivia on Friday.

In the world and European champions' penultimate warm-up game before they begin the defence of their title in Brazil next month, Torres made the most of his starting place up front and substitute Andres Iniesta was also on target as Spain ruthlessly dominated a defence-minded Bolivia.

The South Americans, who failed to qualify for the World Cup finals, managed to hold out until halftime before Javi Martinez was bundled over in the penalty area and Torres calmly slotted the spot kick past Romel Quinonez In the 51st minute.

The Chelsea forward has had an indifferent season with his club but looked lively in the centre forward role before being replaced by Cesc Fabregas on the hour.

Chances were scarce for both sides at Sevilla's Sanchez Pizjuan stadium, with Cesar Azpilicueta striking a long-range effort against the post in the 30th minute and Torres forcing a sharp save from Quinonez shortly before the break.

Iniesta showed his class when he surged forward in the 84th minute and curled a low effort in off a post and Sergio Busquets crashed a long-range drive off the frame of the goal moments later as the home side pressed forward in the final stages.

Spain were missing their Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid contingent, who are on holiday following their clash in Saturday's Champions League final and will join up with the rest of the squad on Monday.

Coach Vicente del Bosque is due to announce his final World Cup squad on Saturday and Torres is vying for a place with the likes of Diego Costa, Fernando Llorente and Alvaro Negredo.

Spain and Bolivia were playing each other for only the second time after they met at the 1994 World Cup in the United States, a 3-1 group-phase victory for the Spanish in Chicago.

Read full post »

Lukaku hits hat-trick as Belgium beat Luxembourg 5-1

Belgium won for the first time in five matches on Monday with a Romelu Lukaku hat-trick securing a 5-1 friendly win over a Luxembourg side ranked 100 places below them.

Three weeks before their World Cup opener, Belgium showed off the neat passing that has prompted many to tip them to do well in Brazil and also blooded three debutants, including 19-year-old Manchester United winger Adnan Januzaj.

However, the defensive lapse that allowed a Luxembourg equaliser will encourage World Cup rivals Algeria, Russia and South Korea that they can upset the Group H favourites.

"I'm a bit of a perfectionist, but it was the first game in three weeks. I wasn't so happy with organisation in the first half," said coach Marc Wilmots.

"We had a reaction in the second half. We were perhaps a bit nonchalant. But we still have three weeks to go."

A catalogue of keeper injuries and the absence of number one Thibaut Courtois, recovering from Saturday's Champions League final, meant a first cap for Sammy Bossut, one of only three squad members still playing in Belgium.

Otherwise, Belgium, set to play in their first World Cup since 2002, began with a line-up that may well start their tournament opener against Algeria on June 17.

When Lukaku struck in the third minute it looked like being a very tough night for the visitors, but 10 minutes later they equalised when Aurelien Joachim, who plays for Dutch side RKC Waalwijk, span off Thomas Vermaelen and fired in.

It was perhaps the wake-up call a slightly sleepy Belgium required, allowing Lukaku to score his first international hat-trick. He had the doggedness of Marouane Fellaini to thank for his opener, a failed Luxembourg clearance for his second, while he dribbled through the defence for his third.

Belgium brought on five substitutes at half-time, giving a debut to Januzaj, who only declared his allegiance to Belgium a month ago. Lille's Divock Origi, another uncapped teenager in the squad, replaced Lukaku on the hour mark.

Substitute Nacer Chadli scored Belgium's fourth while Kevin De Bruyne converted a 91st minute penalty.

Belgium will fly to Stockholm on Tuesday for a training camp ending with a friendly against Sweden on Sunday in which Wilmots said he would try to simulate more of a World Cup feel with fewer substitutes.

After a few days at the Belgian coast, they play a warm-up match against Tunisia in Brussels before boarding their plane to Sao Paolo on June 10 and a match behind closed door against the United States two days later.

Read full post »