dan nam gap eka 5 points
balamu issarahata monawa weida danne neha
title race back on track !
balamu issarahata monawa weida danne neha
title race back on track !
Latest ads
-
Bodim.lk out now !- Manoj Suranga Bandara
- Updated:
-
Power Lifting Lever Belt- SkullVamp
- Updated:
-
port.lk Domain for sale
- Lankan-Tech
- Updated:
-
Colombo Kaduwela - Two Storey House for Sale- dilrasan
- Updated:
-
Wechat qr verification
- Pawan2005
- Updated:
..::Football II::..
- Thread starter Wolverine GTR
- Start date
- Status
Zabaleta to return for Stoke clash
Manchester City has been boosted by the news that fullback Pablo Zabaleta will be fit in time for Saturday's FA Cup fourth-round clash with Stoke City.
The Argentine limped off an hour into his side's 2-0 win over Fulham at the weekend after coming off second best from a crunching tackle. The defender has now confirmed that he will be available for the upcoming meeting with the Potters, though, as the injury is not as serious as initially feared.
"I took a kick on the top of my foot which caused me a lot of pain afterwards and that's the reason it was better that I came off," Zabaleta told the club's official website. "Thankfully, the scan showed there was no serious damage. I should be fine for Saturday, but it will be a couple of days before it is 100 percent again.
"I did some bike work on Monday morning, and on Tuesday I will try some running so I'm sure I will be available for the game against Stoke."
ZABALETTA CITY WARRIOR ! HE GIVES HIS BEST WHEN WHEN HE PLAY
Manchester City 2-0 Fulham: Silva double reduces the gap at the top to four points
Two goals from David Silva saw an off key Manchester City overcome Fulham at the Etihad Stadium, closing the gap on Premier League title rival Manchester United.
The reigning league champion was ahead within two minutes, as Silva calmly guided Edin Dzeko’s parried shot past a hapless Mark Schwarzer.
City looked set to run riot, but didn’t strike again until mid-way through the second half, as Silva latched onto Carlos Tevez’s through ball and expertly chipped it over the Fulham keeper, guaranteeing all three points.
Roberto Mancini picked an unchanged side for the first time this season, with Vincent Kompany remaining in central defense. Fit again Sergio Aguero was listed on the bench.
Fulham made six changes to the side that stumbled past Blackpool in the FA Cup. Kieran Richardson, who scored against the Tangerines, was picked at left back, while Bryan Ruiz and Dimitar Berbatov returned up front.
The home side got off to a flying start as James Milner pounced on a loose pass and immediately offloaded to Dzeko. The Bosnian’s rasping drive was palmed into the path of Silva by Schwarzer, and the Spaniard duly stroked the ball into the far corner.
Despite the early goal, City struggled to exert its usual authority on the match as Martin Jol’s side enjoyed a large share of possession – albeit in non-threatening areas – and the game become a taut, subdued affair.
Mancini’s men seemed increasingly content to sit back, absorb pressure and counter, though they could have conceded when Steve Sidwell out jumped Pablo Zabaleta at the back post, heading Damien Duff’s cross just wide.
City finished the half with a modicum of urgency, as Dzeko blasted the ball over the crossbar from an acute angle, and that intensity grew further after the break, with Tevez leading a more direct and high-pressure approach.
Nevertheless, it wasn't until the hour-mark that the Citizens really threatened Schwarzer’s goal. Good work from Zabaleta earned his side a corner (and a game-ending injury), from which Kompany powered a header on target, which was almost diverted into the net by the outstretched boot of Tevez.
The home side finally doubled the lead with 20 minutes remaining. Cute one-touch interplay between Gael Clichy and Tevez released Silva, who raced towards goal before effortlessly dinking the ball over the onrushing Schwarzer.
Seconds after the game restarted, Tevez and Silva combined again, but this time the diminutive playmaker couldn’t beat Fulham’s Australian shot-stopper, dragging his shot wide of the far post.
Fulham mounted little response, despite healthy possession, and Joe Hart was almost completely untroubled as the game rolled towards its conclusion. Aguero marked his return from injury with a brief but lively cameo off the bench and there was time for Dzeko to blaze an absolute sitter over the bar from six-yards.
The result sees Manchester City move to within four points of league leader Manchester United, and if winning ugly is a sign of a good team, then City certainly proved its title credentials today.
goals from silva awesome. aparade hatrick chance eka
and czeko bit mising the target
nice to see aguero is back
Owen delighted to get off the mark for Stoke
Stoke City striker Michael Owen expressed his delight to have got off the mark for the club after opening his account during the 3-1 defeat away at Swansea City on Saturday.
The 33-year-old headed home a consolation strike, the goal marking his 150th in the English top flight and his first for the Potters after a frustrating start to his career at the Britannia Stadium, which has seen him make just five appearances so far this season.
Having become only the seventh player in Premier League history to reach the milestone, the former Liverpool star is now determined to make a big impact for Tony Pulis's side in the second half of the season.
"It's obviously nice to do it - I did fear that I would never get there," Owen told the club's official website. "You do worry and think that it just isn't meant to be but thankfully I got there and it is another good achievement for me. It was a nice way to score my first goal for the club, in certain ways.
"It is now just a question of me doing well, training well and then taking the chance in the team when it comes along. Hopefully, the second half of the season can be a lot better for me."
The former England international admits that he has found it difficult to break into the Potters side this term due to the form of his teammates, with Pulis often favoring playing just one striker up front.
He added: "I have slipped a little down the pecking order in many respects with Kenwyne [Jones]'s recent form, and the way Peter [Crouch] started the season.
"You do worry a little bit that you won't make the impact that you want to. As I said though, I am there now and hopefully I can build upon that."
Stoke City striker Michael Owen expressed his delight to have got off the mark for the club after opening his account during the 3-1 defeat away at Swansea City on Saturday.
The 33-year-old headed home a consolation strike, the goal marking his 150th in the English top flight and his first for the Potters after a frustrating start to his career at the Britannia Stadium, which has seen him make just five appearances so far this season.
Having become only the seventh player in Premier League history to reach the milestone, the former Liverpool star is now determined to make a big impact for Tony Pulis's side in the second half of the season.
"It's obviously nice to do it - I did fear that I would never get there," Owen told the club's official website. "You do worry and think that it just isn't meant to be but thankfully I got there and it is another good achievement for me. It was a nice way to score my first goal for the club, in certain ways.
"It is now just a question of me doing well, training well and then taking the chance in the team when it comes along. Hopefully, the second half of the season can be a lot better for me."
The former England international admits that he has found it difficult to break into the Potters side this term due to the form of his teammates, with Pulis often favoring playing just one striker up front.
He added: "I have slipped a little down the pecking order in many respects with Kenwyne [Jones]'s recent form, and the way Peter [Crouch] started the season.
"You do worry a little bit that you won't make the impact that you want to. As I said though, I am there now and hopefully I can build upon that."
Roma playmaker Pjanic claims Barcelona interest
Roma playmaker Miralem Pjanic has claimed that Barcelona is monitoring his situation, and added that he is flattered to be the subject of interest from the Catalans.
The 22-year-old Bosnia and Herzegovina international says the Blaugrana have been tracking him in recent weeks, but stressed that any move is in the hands of his current club.
“It’s true, Barcelona are tracking me and enquired about my situation with my club," he told EFE. "They were watching me during the game with Fiorentina. It is Roma who have to decide, as the clubs deal with these matters.
"Barcelona are a team everyone would like to play for and it is an honour that they are interested in me."
Pjanic's contract with the Giallorossi runs until June 2015.
Roma playmaker Miralem Pjanic has claimed that Barcelona is monitoring his situation, and added that he is flattered to be the subject of interest from the Catalans.
The 22-year-old Bosnia and Herzegovina international says the Blaugrana have been tracking him in recent weeks, but stressed that any move is in the hands of his current club.
“It’s true, Barcelona are tracking me and enquired about my situation with my club," he told EFE. "They were watching me during the game with Fiorentina. It is Roma who have to decide, as the clubs deal with these matters.
"Barcelona are a team everyone would like to play for and it is an honour that they are interested in me."
Pjanic's contract with the Giallorossi runs until June 2015.
Juventus 1-1 Lazio: Late Mauri equalizer leaves Lazio in pole position to reach Coppa Italia final
Juventus threw away a winning position in the Coppa Italia semifinal, settling for a 1-1 draw with Lazio in Tuesday's the first-leg encounter after captain Stefano Mauri hit for an equalizer five minutes from time.
Federico Peluso had put Juventus ahead in the 63rd minute, but Antonio Conte's men will have to chase a result in the return fixture to survive in the competition, with Lazio leading by virtue of the away goal tiebreaker.
Chasing a place in the Coppa Italia final to keep the dream of a third domestic double on track, Juventus made an explosive start to the match in front of its own fans. The match was barely a minute old when the home side broke forward, but Claudio Marchisio saw the ball robbed from his grasp by goalkeeper Federico Marchetti after being played in by Alessandro Matri.
Lazio was pinned back even more for the first 20 minutes, but it gradually began to fight in a fixture that became progressively scrappier and more imprecise. The visitors' best chance of the first half fell to Mauri, as the forward had the chance to poke home when Leonardo Bonucci scuffed a clearing header, but he hesitated and saw the ball cleared by Luca Marrone with the net wide open.
Nine minutes into the second half, Juventus was presented with its best chance to that point. Matri broke the offside trap and did well to latch on to a stunning lofted pass from Marrone, taking his shot first time on the volley. The effort lacked power, however, and Marchetti again did well to palm away and keep his team level with the hosts. Mauri then appeared with a header at the other end, but Marco Storari was also in the right place and saved comfortably.
Pressure on the lackluster Romans was growing, and it was no surprise Juve pulled in front. A fluid passing move around the box left Emanuele Giaccherini in space, and his pinpoint cross found Peluso, who nodded the ball into the corner of the net.
Lazio endured, though, and Arturo Vidal, who had been strong in midfield throughout the clash, was key in turning the tide. The Chilean's well-placed shot beat Marchetti only to be denied by the post, and from the rebound the midfielder steered Barzagli's cross inches wide to give Lazio a lifeline. The Aquile took full advantage, as five minutes from the end Mauri stole in at the far post to poke home a corner and hit a shock equalizer.
Juventus will now have to score in Stadio Olimpico to advance to the final. The second fixture is scheduled to take place on Jan. 29, while Roma and Inter play their opening leg of the semifinals in the Italian capital on Wednesday.
Juventus threw away a winning position in the Coppa Italia semifinal, settling for a 1-1 draw with Lazio in Tuesday's the first-leg encounter after captain Stefano Mauri hit for an equalizer five minutes from time.
Federico Peluso had put Juventus ahead in the 63rd minute, but Antonio Conte's men will have to chase a result in the return fixture to survive in the competition, with Lazio leading by virtue of the away goal tiebreaker.
Chasing a place in the Coppa Italia final to keep the dream of a third domestic double on track, Juventus made an explosive start to the match in front of its own fans. The match was barely a minute old when the home side broke forward, but Claudio Marchisio saw the ball robbed from his grasp by goalkeeper Federico Marchetti after being played in by Alessandro Matri.
Lazio was pinned back even more for the first 20 minutes, but it gradually began to fight in a fixture that became progressively scrappier and more imprecise. The visitors' best chance of the first half fell to Mauri, as the forward had the chance to poke home when Leonardo Bonucci scuffed a clearing header, but he hesitated and saw the ball cleared by Luca Marrone with the net wide open.
Nine minutes into the second half, Juventus was presented with its best chance to that point. Matri broke the offside trap and did well to latch on to a stunning lofted pass from Marrone, taking his shot first time on the volley. The effort lacked power, however, and Marchetti again did well to palm away and keep his team level with the hosts. Mauri then appeared with a header at the other end, but Marco Storari was also in the right place and saved comfortably.
Pressure on the lackluster Romans was growing, and it was no surprise Juve pulled in front. A fluid passing move around the box left Emanuele Giaccherini in space, and his pinpoint cross found Peluso, who nodded the ball into the corner of the net.
Lazio endured, though, and Arturo Vidal, who had been strong in midfield throughout the clash, was key in turning the tide. The Chilean's well-placed shot beat Marchetti only to be denied by the post, and from the rebound the midfielder steered Barzagli's cross inches wide to give Lazio a lifeline. The Aquile took full advantage, as five minutes from the end Mauri stole in at the far post to poke home a corner and hit a shock equalizer.
Juventus will now have to score in Stadio Olimpico to advance to the final. The second fixture is scheduled to take place on Jan. 29, while Roma and Inter play their opening leg of the semifinals in the Italian capital on Wednesday.
Aston Villa 2-1 Bradford (Agg 3-4): Brilliant Bantams hold on to reach Wembley
Bradford City continued its brilliant run in the Capital One Cup despite losing 2-1 to Aston Villa, becoming the first fourth tier team to reach the final since 1962.
The League Two outfit started with the same XI as the first leg, whilst the Premier League side opted for a very strong team, starting the likes of Christian Benteke, Charles N'Zogbia and Gabriel Agbonlahor.
Villa started the brighter of the two as it tried to overcome the two goal deficit and Benteke was involved in numerous chances inside the first 20 minutes.
The Belgian headed the ball back across goal but Matthew Lowton was unable to keep his header down despite being only a few yards out.
He then had a header of his own but could only direct it into the arms of goalkeeper Matt Duke before Fabian Delph's long range effort flew over the bar.
Villa was a constant threat and it was no surprise that the score was 1-0 after 23 minutes. Joe Bennett delivered an inch-perfect cross and Benteke volleyed past Duke with the side of his foot.
Stephen Ireland had the ball in the back of the net four minutes later following a mazy run from Bennett but the goal was chalked off for offside.
Duke was continuing his fine performance from the first leg. He produced a brilliant one-handed stop to deny N'Zogbia from range before doing exactly the same from an effort from Ireland.
A minute before halftime and it should really have been 2-0. Rory McArdle misjudged an Ireland cross into the box and the ball flicked off Benteke and inches wide of the post.
Bradford almost equalized with its first chance of the game just before the break through a fine curling attempt from Nahki Wells but the ball beat an outstretched Shay Given but also the post.
Benteke almost leveled on aggregate with another header moments into the second half but it did not have the conviction as his goal and it trickled wide.
The Bantams equalised on the night and extended their lead overall after 55 minutes with a brilliant header from James Hanson.
Zavon Hines beat Bennett down the right and won a corner - their first one of the night. Benteke cleared it for a second corner and Gary Jones' delivery beat the Belgian and Ron Vlaar but not Hanson who powered the ball home.
Bradford was in the ascendancy and Hines forced Given before Hanson's header coming off the top of his head and out for a goal kick.
Ireland almost pulled one back for Villa after fine work from substitute Darren Bent to play him in but he could only shoot wide from six yards out.
Substitute Garry Thompson nearly added further misery to the home side but his first time effort struck the crossbar.
Andreas Weimann scored a late winner for Villa on the night, rounding Duke following a flick on from Bent but it was too little too late.
Phil Parkinson's side held on for a famous victory over two legs and will play the winner of Swansea and Chelsea, who play on Wednesday.
Bradford City continued its brilliant run in the Capital One Cup despite losing 2-1 to Aston Villa, becoming the first fourth tier team to reach the final since 1962.
The League Two outfit started with the same XI as the first leg, whilst the Premier League side opted for a very strong team, starting the likes of Christian Benteke, Charles N'Zogbia and Gabriel Agbonlahor.
Villa started the brighter of the two as it tried to overcome the two goal deficit and Benteke was involved in numerous chances inside the first 20 minutes.
The Belgian headed the ball back across goal but Matthew Lowton was unable to keep his header down despite being only a few yards out.
He then had a header of his own but could only direct it into the arms of goalkeeper Matt Duke before Fabian Delph's long range effort flew over the bar.
Villa was a constant threat and it was no surprise that the score was 1-0 after 23 minutes. Joe Bennett delivered an inch-perfect cross and Benteke volleyed past Duke with the side of his foot.
Stephen Ireland had the ball in the back of the net four minutes later following a mazy run from Bennett but the goal was chalked off for offside.
Duke was continuing his fine performance from the first leg. He produced a brilliant one-handed stop to deny N'Zogbia from range before doing exactly the same from an effort from Ireland.
A minute before halftime and it should really have been 2-0. Rory McArdle misjudged an Ireland cross into the box and the ball flicked off Benteke and inches wide of the post.
Bradford almost equalized with its first chance of the game just before the break through a fine curling attempt from Nahki Wells but the ball beat an outstretched Shay Given but also the post.
Benteke almost leveled on aggregate with another header moments into the second half but it did not have the conviction as his goal and it trickled wide.
The Bantams equalised on the night and extended their lead overall after 55 minutes with a brilliant header from James Hanson.
Zavon Hines beat Bennett down the right and won a corner - their first one of the night. Benteke cleared it for a second corner and Gary Jones' delivery beat the Belgian and Ron Vlaar but not Hanson who powered the ball home.
Bradford was in the ascendancy and Hines forced Given before Hanson's header coming off the top of his head and out for a goal kick.
Ireland almost pulled one back for Villa after fine work from substitute Darren Bent to play him in but he could only shoot wide from six yards out.
Substitute Garry Thompson nearly added further misery to the home side but his first time effort struck the crossbar.
Andreas Weimann scored a late winner for Villa on the night, rounding Duke following a flick on from Bent but it was too little too late.
Phil Parkinson's side held on for a famous victory over two legs and will play the winner of Swansea and Chelsea, who play on Wednesday.
Newcastle completes Yanga-Mbiwa signing
Newcastle has confirmed the signing of Montpellier captain Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa on a five-and-a-half-year deal.
The Ligue 1 club confirmed earlier on Tuesday that it had come to an agreement with the Magpies over the France international's switch, and he has now passed a physical and agreed to personal terms. Yanga-Mbiwa will wear the No. 13 shirt and is eligible to make his Toon debut against Aston Villa next Tuesday.
"It is an honor to be able to come to Newcastle United and have the chance to play in the Premier League," the center back told the Magpies' official website. "Newcastle are one of the biggest clubs in the league and I'm going to try and give everything I have so that the team can do well. I have experienced a lot of positive things so far in my career and one of those is joining this club."
The Magpies have been fretting over defensive cover in recent weeks with Fabricio Coloccini keen to move back to Argentina due to personal reasons.
"We needed to strengthen the team and bringing in Mapou will give the whole squad a boost," Newcastle manager Alan Pardew said. "He is precisely the sort of player we've been looking to bring to the club. He is a good age for us but has plenty of experience at club and international level.
"Mapou is a talented footballer, good in the air and on the ground and has all the attributes to succeed as a quality defender in the Premier League. He's a good character, too, and that will be important for us over the next few months."
Newcastle has confirmed the signing of Montpellier captain Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa on a five-and-a-half-year deal.
The Ligue 1 club confirmed earlier on Tuesday that it had come to an agreement with the Magpies over the France international's switch, and he has now passed a physical and agreed to personal terms. Yanga-Mbiwa will wear the No. 13 shirt and is eligible to make his Toon debut against Aston Villa next Tuesday.
"It is an honor to be able to come to Newcastle United and have the chance to play in the Premier League," the center back told the Magpies' official website. "Newcastle are one of the biggest clubs in the league and I'm going to try and give everything I have so that the team can do well. I have experienced a lot of positive things so far in my career and one of those is joining this club."
The Magpies have been fretting over defensive cover in recent weeks with Fabricio Coloccini keen to move back to Argentina due to personal reasons.
"We needed to strengthen the team and bringing in Mapou will give the whole squad a boost," Newcastle manager Alan Pardew said. "He is precisely the sort of player we've been looking to bring to the club. He is a good age for us but has plenty of experience at club and international level.
"Mapou is a talented footballer, good in the air and on the ground and has all the attributes to succeed as a quality defender in the Premier League. He's a good character, too, and that will be important for us over the next few months."
Anderlecht signs De Zeeuw on loan from Spartak Moscow
Anderlecht have brought Spartak Moscow midfielder Demy de Zeeuw to Belgium on loan for the rest of the season with an option to buy him permanently in the summer.
The Dutchman will provide competition in the center of midfield at the Constant Vanden Stock Stadium, and while adding fuel to the speculation that the club will be offloading reported Arsenal transfer target Lucas Biglia during the January window.
De Zeeuw, 29, joined Spartak Moscow from Ajax in 2011 after three seasons with the Dutch powerhouse.
Anderlecht, which is the club of American midfielder Sacha Kljestan and currently has D.C. United right back Andy Najar on loan through the end of the month, is currently eight points clear at the top of the Jupiler League as it looks to secure back-to-back domestic titles and clinch another place in the UEFA Champions League.
Anderlecht have brought Spartak Moscow midfielder Demy de Zeeuw to Belgium on loan for the rest of the season with an option to buy him permanently in the summer.
The Dutchman will provide competition in the center of midfield at the Constant Vanden Stock Stadium, and while adding fuel to the speculation that the club will be offloading reported Arsenal transfer target Lucas Biglia during the January window.
De Zeeuw, 29, joined Spartak Moscow from Ajax in 2011 after three seasons with the Dutch powerhouse.
Anderlecht, which is the club of American midfielder Sacha Kljestan and currently has D.C. United right back Andy Najar on loan through the end of the month, is currently eight points clear at the top of the Jupiler League as it looks to secure back-to-back domestic titles and clinch another place in the UEFA Champions League.
Puyol signs Barcelona contract extension until 2016
Barcelona captain Carlos Puyol has signed a contract extension that will see him stay at the club until 2016, the club announced on its official website on Tuesday.
The center back joins Xavi and Lionel Messi in signing new deals with the Spanish Liga leaders, although Victor Valdes has refused to commit to the club past the end of his current deal.
The 34-year-old Spanish international's current deal had been due to expire in the summer of 2014, but he will now stay with the Blaugrana for an additional two years. Puyol has played his entire career at Camp Nou and has won five league championships, two Copa del Rey trophies and three UEFA Champions League titles.
Both Adriano and Andres Iniesta are expected to join Puyol in signing extensions in the coming week.
Barcelona captain Carlos Puyol has signed a contract extension that will see him stay at the club until 2016, the club announced on its official website on Tuesday.
The center back joins Xavi and Lionel Messi in signing new deals with the Spanish Liga leaders, although Victor Valdes has refused to commit to the club past the end of his current deal.
The 34-year-old Spanish international's current deal had been due to expire in the summer of 2014, but he will now stay with the Blaugrana for an additional two years. Puyol has played his entire career at Camp Nou and has won five league championships, two Copa del Rey trophies and three UEFA Champions League titles.
Both Adriano and Andres Iniesta are expected to join Puyol in signing extensions in the coming week.
Ivory Coast 2-1 Togo: Gervinho saves face for the Elephants with winner against a plucky Togo
Gervinho led the Ivory Coast to tight 2-1 victory over Togo in the Africa Cup of Nations on Tuesday at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium in Rustenburg. The win momentarily places the Ivory Coast on top of Group D ahead of the second match between Algeria and Tunisia.
A nasty defensive blunder in the Ivorian defense could have allowed Togo to take the lead early in the second minute when Emmanuel Adebayor beat former teammate at Manchester City Kolo Toure to a back pass and found himself facing goalkeeper Copa Barry, but the striker failed to finish.
The Elephants answered six minutes later, when Gervinho meandered through two defenders from the right flank of the box and managed to lay across to Yaya Toure, who struck through a forest of legs into the net to put his side ahead.Ivory Coast dominated possession with short and sharp passing through the first quarter, but the Sparrow Hawks stood firm to avoid another goal, with defender Vincent Bossou taking good care of Didier Drogba.
The Ivorians chose to use the flanks to cut in to the Togo box when connecting to Drogba became impossible. Gervinho and Saint Etienne’s Max Gradel, as well as former Arsenal player Emmanuel Eboue exchanged positions at the flanks but were always impressively blocked by the opposing rearguard.
Adebayor had another clear chance from the left after outpacing the elder of the two Toure's, but lacked the right inspiration to deliver. Gakpe Serge and Ayite Jonathan were relentless in front of the Ivorian goal and when the former beat Ivorian centre back Souleyman Bamba in a close duel to the right, he lost his balance, hitting wide.
Togo was using long balls to overcome the Ivorian back line, which finally paid off in the added time when the Hawks won a free kick, which was deflected into a corner from which Ayite lobbed to the side of a sprawling Copa to grab a leveller for his side just before the break.
The Ivorians began the second half at a frenetic pace, with Gervinho and Drogba being set up a couple of times but finding no success in front of goal.
The Elephants coach Sabri Lamouchi brought in former Chelsea winger Salomon Kalou and Newcastle’s Cheick Tiote to energize his lacklustre side, as Togo saw a goal disallowed through a corner kick for executing the kick before the whistle.
With no solution for a winner in sight, the Ivorian coach pulled out Drogba for Wilfried Bony of Vitesse Arnhem. Immediately after, Gervinho found himself with a ball and enough space around him to the right edge of the box and was able to adjust before linking Yaya Toure to the middle, who unleashed spontaneously but his effort was too comfortable for Agassa Kossi.
The game delved into a balanced structure, with the ball moving from one end to the other, but with the Ivorians evincing more determination for a second goal.
A free kick from the right found Gervinho deep in the left side of the box. He was able to stroke his effort through a tight angle into the goal with the outside of his foot, to hand Cote d’Ivoire the winner two minutes from full time.
Togo then had their last chance to equalise when Adebayor lobbed a cross over the Ivorian defence for Ayite, who squared for Djene, but Copa intercepted on time with a great stop.
The Elephants become the second team of the tournament after Mali to bag three points from their first match.
Gervinho led the Ivory Coast to tight 2-1 victory over Togo in the Africa Cup of Nations on Tuesday at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium in Rustenburg. The win momentarily places the Ivory Coast on top of Group D ahead of the second match between Algeria and Tunisia.
A nasty defensive blunder in the Ivorian defense could have allowed Togo to take the lead early in the second minute when Emmanuel Adebayor beat former teammate at Manchester City Kolo Toure to a back pass and found himself facing goalkeeper Copa Barry, but the striker failed to finish.
The Elephants answered six minutes later, when Gervinho meandered through two defenders from the right flank of the box and managed to lay across to Yaya Toure, who struck through a forest of legs into the net to put his side ahead.Ivory Coast dominated possession with short and sharp passing through the first quarter, but the Sparrow Hawks stood firm to avoid another goal, with defender Vincent Bossou taking good care of Didier Drogba.
The Ivorians chose to use the flanks to cut in to the Togo box when connecting to Drogba became impossible. Gervinho and Saint Etienne’s Max Gradel, as well as former Arsenal player Emmanuel Eboue exchanged positions at the flanks but were always impressively blocked by the opposing rearguard.
Adebayor had another clear chance from the left after outpacing the elder of the two Toure's, but lacked the right inspiration to deliver. Gakpe Serge and Ayite Jonathan were relentless in front of the Ivorian goal and when the former beat Ivorian centre back Souleyman Bamba in a close duel to the right, he lost his balance, hitting wide.
Togo was using long balls to overcome the Ivorian back line, which finally paid off in the added time when the Hawks won a free kick, which was deflected into a corner from which Ayite lobbed to the side of a sprawling Copa to grab a leveller for his side just before the break.
The Ivorians began the second half at a frenetic pace, with Gervinho and Drogba being set up a couple of times but finding no success in front of goal.
The Elephants coach Sabri Lamouchi brought in former Chelsea winger Salomon Kalou and Newcastle’s Cheick Tiote to energize his lacklustre side, as Togo saw a goal disallowed through a corner kick for executing the kick before the whistle.
With no solution for a winner in sight, the Ivorian coach pulled out Drogba for Wilfried Bony of Vitesse Arnhem. Immediately after, Gervinho found himself with a ball and enough space around him to the right edge of the box and was able to adjust before linking Yaya Toure to the middle, who unleashed spontaneously but his effort was too comfortable for Agassa Kossi.
The game delved into a balanced structure, with the ball moving from one end to the other, but with the Ivorians evincing more determination for a second goal.
A free kick from the right found Gervinho deep in the left side of the box. He was able to stroke his effort through a tight angle into the goal with the outside of his foot, to hand Cote d’Ivoire the winner two minutes from full time.
Togo then had their last chance to equalise when Adebayor lobbed a cross over the Ivorian defence for Ayite, who squared for Djene, but Copa intercepted on time with a great stop.
The Elephants become the second team of the tournament after Mali to bag three points from their first match.
Sneijder: Mourinho told me to sign for Galatasaray
Wesley Sneijder has revealed he chose to sign for Galatasaray on the advice of Jose Mourinho.
The Netherlands international completed his move to Turkey after falling out of favor at Inter, following his refusal to renegotiate his deal with the Nerazzurri.
The midfielder thrived under Mourinho before the departure of the Portuguese manager in 2010 and has struggled to produce the same level of performance since his exit.
"I called him before my decision because he's an important person in my career. I've asked his opinion and he gave me a really good advice," he told reporters at a press conference. "I've also spoken to Louis van Gaal. They both wanted me to go to Galatasaray so it was an easy decision.
"I had a great season in 2009-10 with Inter. We won everything. If you win everything, it's hard to win more. The last two years they had many coaches. We started to play with different systems and I started to play in different positions. It was a hard situation there after 2010."
There had been worries that the transfer may not go through given the length of time between a fee being agreed and Sneijder signing his contract, but the 28-year-old revealed he wanted to leave Inter on good terms before concluding the transfer.
"I had some problems with my ex-club Inter so I wanted to fix everything with them first. I had a good relationship with [Massimo] Moratti. I wanted to resolve everything with the club," he added.
The playmaker also revealed he had received other offers for his services, but is confident he has made the right choice in signing for what he described "a top club".
Wesley Sneijder has revealed he chose to sign for Galatasaray on the advice of Jose Mourinho.
The Netherlands international completed his move to Turkey after falling out of favor at Inter, following his refusal to renegotiate his deal with the Nerazzurri.
The midfielder thrived under Mourinho before the departure of the Portuguese manager in 2010 and has struggled to produce the same level of performance since his exit.
"I called him before my decision because he's an important person in my career. I've asked his opinion and he gave me a really good advice," he told reporters at a press conference. "I've also spoken to Louis van Gaal. They both wanted me to go to Galatasaray so it was an easy decision.
"I had a great season in 2009-10 with Inter. We won everything. If you win everything, it's hard to win more. The last two years they had many coaches. We started to play with different systems and I started to play in different positions. It was a hard situation there after 2010."
There had been worries that the transfer may not go through given the length of time between a fee being agreed and Sneijder signing his contract, but the 28-year-old revealed he wanted to leave Inter on good terms before concluding the transfer.
"I had some problems with my ex-club Inter so I wanted to fix everything with them first. I had a good relationship with [Massimo] Moratti. I wanted to resolve everything with the club," he added.
The playmaker also revealed he had received other offers for his services, but is confident he has made the right choice in signing for what he described "a top club".
Lahm unhappy with Bayern Munich display against Greuther Furth
Bayern Munich captain Phillipp Lahm says the Bundesliga leader was "far from perfect" in its 2-0 win over Greuther Furth and blamed the hype surrounding Pep Guardiola's arrival on the performance.
The Bavarians maintained their nine-point advantage over second-place Bayer Leverkusen, but even with the notable positive, the defender was unimpressed with a sluggish showing.
"I think today we were far from perfect, over the full 90 minutes that was not a good game," Lahm told reporters. "It is difficult, you come from the first round, then the winter break and then comes the first game and it is sometimes hard to focus."
Lahm also touched on the news of Guardiola joining the club and the subsequent attention surrounding the appointment may have had something to do with the lackluster performance.“The turmoil of recent days have played a part," Lahm said.
Meanwhile, Bayern midfielder Javi Martinez revealed his delight at the arrival of the former Barcelona boss and said the squad was brimming with excitement at the chance to work with the renowned coach.
“Working with one of the world’s best coaches is a huge motivation for me; I, as well as all of my teammates here welcome him with open arms," Martinez said. "Anyone who knows about football knows who Guardiola is and that he has done everything. We are really happy that he's coming."
Bayern Munich captain Phillipp Lahm says the Bundesliga leader was "far from perfect" in its 2-0 win over Greuther Furth and blamed the hype surrounding Pep Guardiola's arrival on the performance.
The Bavarians maintained their nine-point advantage over second-place Bayer Leverkusen, but even with the notable positive, the defender was unimpressed with a sluggish showing.
"I think today we were far from perfect, over the full 90 minutes that was not a good game," Lahm told reporters. "It is difficult, you come from the first round, then the winter break and then comes the first game and it is sometimes hard to focus."
Lahm also touched on the news of Guardiola joining the club and the subsequent attention surrounding the appointment may have had something to do with the lackluster performance.“The turmoil of recent days have played a part," Lahm said.
Meanwhile, Bayern midfielder Javi Martinez revealed his delight at the arrival of the former Barcelona boss and said the squad was brimming with excitement at the chance to work with the renowned coach.
“Working with one of the world’s best coaches is a huge motivation for me; I, as well as all of my teammates here welcome him with open arms," Martinez said. "Anyone who knows about football knows who Guardiola is and that he has done everything. We are really happy that he's coming."
Ashley Cole agrees new one-year Chelsea deal
Chelsea left back Ashley Cole has agreed a new one-year contract extension with the club.
The defender had looked set to leave Stamford Bridge in the summer, with Paris Saint-Germain widely tipped as a possible destination. However, the 32-year-old will now extend his stay in west London.
"I am pleased I will be starting my eighth season at Chelsea. I have great memories here and I enjoy coming to training every day. The staff are amazing and I enjoy training with the lads," Cole told the club's official website.
He added, "I have been able to fulfill nearly all my ambitions at Chelsea. I have won the Champions League, the League, I have won FA Cups here but of course you don't want to stop winning trophies and being at a big club, you are always fighting to win a trophy.
"Being here for seven years and being at Arsenal before that playing for trophies, you never lose that hunger. I wanted to stay at Chelsea because we are always fighting and challenging for trophies. That desire and the will to want to win things have not gone."
Chelsea left back Ashley Cole has agreed a new one-year contract extension with the club.
The defender had looked set to leave Stamford Bridge in the summer, with Paris Saint-Germain widely tipped as a possible destination. However, the 32-year-old will now extend his stay in west London.
"I am pleased I will be starting my eighth season at Chelsea. I have great memories here and I enjoy coming to training every day. The staff are amazing and I enjoy training with the lads," Cole told the club's official website.
He added, "I have been able to fulfill nearly all my ambitions at Chelsea. I have won the Champions League, the League, I have won FA Cups here but of course you don't want to stop winning trophies and being at a big club, you are always fighting to win a trophy.
"Being here for seven years and being at Arsenal before that playing for trophies, you never lose that hunger. I wanted to stay at Chelsea because we are always fighting and challenging for trophies. That desire and the will to want to win things have not gone."
Agent: Stekelenburg will stay at Roma
Maarten Stekelenburg looks likely to stay at Roma until the end of the season, according to his agent Rob Jansen.
The goalkeeper has been linked with a move away from the Giallorossi this month, having lost his place in the side to Mauro Goicoechea, but it would appear he will now stay on and fight for the No.1. jersey.
“At the moment there are just rumors and journalistic speculation,” Jansen told calciomercato.it. “We have yet to receive a concrete offer, so it is therefore probable that he will stay at Roma in January rather than leave.”
It does seem highly likely that Stekelenburg will depart the club in the summer though, and with Victor Valdes announcing he is to leave Barcelona at the end of his current deal, the 30-year-old has been linked with a move to Camp Nou.
“We know what is moving in the goalkeeping market, but nothing has been decided,” Jansen stated.
Stekelenburg joined Roma from Ajax in August 2011 and has 54 caps for the Netherlands, taking over as first-choice goalkeeper from Edwin Van Der Sar, following his retirement from international duty in 2008.
Maarten Stekelenburg looks likely to stay at Roma until the end of the season, according to his agent Rob Jansen.
The goalkeeper has been linked with a move away from the Giallorossi this month, having lost his place in the side to Mauro Goicoechea, but it would appear he will now stay on and fight for the No.1. jersey.
“At the moment there are just rumors and journalistic speculation,” Jansen told calciomercato.it. “We have yet to receive a concrete offer, so it is therefore probable that he will stay at Roma in January rather than leave.”
It does seem highly likely that Stekelenburg will depart the club in the summer though, and with Victor Valdes announcing he is to leave Barcelona at the end of his current deal, the 30-year-old has been linked with a move to Camp Nou.
“We know what is moving in the goalkeeping market, but nothing has been decided,” Jansen stated.
Stekelenburg joined Roma from Ajax in August 2011 and has 54 caps for the Netherlands, taking over as first-choice goalkeeper from Edwin Van Der Sar, following his retirement from international duty in 2008.
Materazzi: I would not entrust Benitez with any team
Former Italy international Marco Materazzi has hit out at Chelsea manager Rafa Benitez and has stressed that he would never entrust the Spaniard with his team if he were a club president.
Materazzi worked under Benitez at Inter in the first half of the 2010-11 campaign, and the former center back was not impressed with the coach's methods.
"He is not exactly my ideal coach. If I were in charge of a club, I would never entrust him with my team," Materazzi was quoted as saying by France Football.
He added, "What I did not like about him was the way he presented himself to the team. Great coaches like [Marcello] Lippi and [Jose] Mourinho use unwritten rules, but Benitez wanted to write 10 to 12 things down.
"It was like we were back to school or had to follow traffic rules."
Benitez replaced Roberto Di Matteo as Chelsea manager earlier this season
Former Italy international Marco Materazzi has hit out at Chelsea manager Rafa Benitez and has stressed that he would never entrust the Spaniard with his team if he were a club president.
Materazzi worked under Benitez at Inter in the first half of the 2010-11 campaign, and the former center back was not impressed with the coach's methods.
"He is not exactly my ideal coach. If I were in charge of a club, I would never entrust him with my team," Materazzi was quoted as saying by France Football.
He added, "What I did not like about him was the way he presented himself to the team. Great coaches like [Marcello] Lippi and [Jose] Mourinho use unwritten rules, but Benitez wanted to write 10 to 12 things down.
"It was like we were back to school or had to follow traffic rules."
Benitez replaced Roberto Di Matteo as Chelsea manager earlier this season
Wenger hails ability of Arsenal target Diame
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has praised West Ham midfielder and January transfer window target Mohamed Diame.
The north London outfit has been constantly linked with a move for the 25-year-old, who is believed to have a 3.5 million pound release clause written into his contract.
Diame has been one of the Hammers' star performers so far this term, notching two goals – including one against Arsenal – in his 18 appearances for Sam Allardyce's side.
Wenger has fueled talk of a move for the powerful Senegalese midfielder, telling reporters: "He has a great presence in the games, I have seen him have a big impact."
Arsenal lost 2-1 to Chelsea on Sunday afternoon, contributing to a haul of just one point from three games that leaves the club seven points behind top four rival Tottenham and level with Liverpool and West Brom on 34 points.
There is better news for the Gunners though, with Mikel Arteta set for a return to the first team this week.
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has praised West Ham midfielder and January transfer window target Mohamed Diame.
The north London outfit has been constantly linked with a move for the 25-year-old, who is believed to have a 3.5 million pound release clause written into his contract.
Diame has been one of the Hammers' star performers so far this term, notching two goals – including one against Arsenal – in his 18 appearances for Sam Allardyce's side.
Wenger has fueled talk of a move for the powerful Senegalese midfielder, telling reporters: "He has a great presence in the games, I have seen him have a big impact."
Arsenal lost 2-1 to Chelsea on Sunday afternoon, contributing to a haul of just one point from three games that leaves the club seven points behind top four rival Tottenham and level with Liverpool and West Brom on 34 points.
There is better news for the Gunners though, with Mikel Arteta set for a return to the first team this week.
I should have scored more for Manchester United, says Van Persie
Robin van Persie claims he should have scored more goals for Manchester United this season.
Since his summer move to Old Trafford, the Netherlands international is the Premier League's leading scorer with 18 goals in 23 appearances.
The 29-year-old has netted in all but one of the 11 games he has featured in since Nov. 28 but is adamant his record could have been better in front of goal.
"It should have been 10 games, 14 or 15 goals. At least four or five I shouldn't have missed," Van Persie told reporters. "It's not going really well. It is going well but if you start to believe it's going well, you're going down. "If I look at all those games, I should have done better in most of them because I had more chances than just one chance and one goal."
Van Persie admits he left Arsenal to be with players who have experience in challenging for the Premier League title and claims he is now "like a kid in a sweet shop" with the wealth of talent he has around him at Old Trafford.
"Arsenal is a great club but after eight years sometimes you feel that you need a new challenge. If you look at the last couple of months it explains it all. I'm seeing things again that I didn't see for a long time," he added. "For the moment we're in a great position. We are ahead on points, goal difference is in our favor. All these guys here know how to win and become champions.
"When I first came to Arsenal years ago, I saw things from Dennis Bergkamp and Thierry Henry I'd never seen before. Now I'm seeing those things again and that makes me really happy. It's like a kid in a sweet shop. It's like, 'this is good, this is having fun, this is enjoying yourself'. All these little things added together make a big difference. It makes me feel that I'm surrounded by champions."
Robin van Persie claims he should have scored more goals for Manchester United this season.
Since his summer move to Old Trafford, the Netherlands international is the Premier League's leading scorer with 18 goals in 23 appearances.
The 29-year-old has netted in all but one of the 11 games he has featured in since Nov. 28 but is adamant his record could have been better in front of goal.
"It should have been 10 games, 14 or 15 goals. At least four or five I shouldn't have missed," Van Persie told reporters. "It's not going really well. It is going well but if you start to believe it's going well, you're going down. "If I look at all those games, I should have done better in most of them because I had more chances than just one chance and one goal."
Van Persie admits he left Arsenal to be with players who have experience in challenging for the Premier League title and claims he is now "like a kid in a sweet shop" with the wealth of talent he has around him at Old Trafford.
"Arsenal is a great club but after eight years sometimes you feel that you need a new challenge. If you look at the last couple of months it explains it all. I'm seeing things again that I didn't see for a long time," he added. "For the moment we're in a great position. We are ahead on points, goal difference is in our favor. All these guys here know how to win and become champions.
"When I first came to Arsenal years ago, I saw things from Dennis Bergkamp and Thierry Henry I'd never seen before. Now I'm seeing those things again and that makes me really happy. It's like a kid in a sweet shop. It's like, 'this is good, this is having fun, this is enjoying yourself'. All these little things added together make a big difference. It makes me feel that I'm surrounded by champions."
Walcott: Arsenal is improving every year
Arsenal forward Theo Walcott claims the club is getting better every year and insists his side should not panic in its bid to secure a Champions League place this season.
After suffering a 2-1 defeat to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Sunday, Arsene Wenger's men now sit sixth in the Premier League, seven points behind fourth-placed Tottenham and nine behind Rafa Benitez's side, which is in third.
The 23-year-old finally signed a new long-term deal with Arsenal last week after months of speculation and the England international claims the improvement of the squad persuaded him to commit to the club.
"I signed my new contract because I believe this team is getting better and we don't want to be standing still," Walcott told reporters.
"We've got to start clocking up points fast. We were out of the top four for quite a while last year as well and still managed to finish third, so we can't start worrying about what Spurs are doing."
Despite suggesting the personnel in Wenger's squad has improved, Walcott concedes the players lack confidence and has urged his teammates to start stronger in matches after goals from Juan Mata and Frank Lampard saw Arsenal trail after just 16 minutes in Sunday's defeat.
"I think there's a lack of belief here. We need to start realizing just how good we are. We've got some very, very good players but some of them don't believe they are good enough at times," Walcott said.
"We showed some great stuff in the second half at Chelsea and that didn't surprise me. But we can't be coming out of the blocks as slowly as we have done.
"As soon as we pressurized Chelsea after the break we showed what we can do. But we need to play like that for 90 minutes, not just the second half."
Arsenal forward Theo Walcott claims the club is getting better every year and insists his side should not panic in its bid to secure a Champions League place this season.
After suffering a 2-1 defeat to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Sunday, Arsene Wenger's men now sit sixth in the Premier League, seven points behind fourth-placed Tottenham and nine behind Rafa Benitez's side, which is in third.
The 23-year-old finally signed a new long-term deal with Arsenal last week after months of speculation and the England international claims the improvement of the squad persuaded him to commit to the club.
"I signed my new contract because I believe this team is getting better and we don't want to be standing still," Walcott told reporters.
"We've got to start clocking up points fast. We were out of the top four for quite a while last year as well and still managed to finish third, so we can't start worrying about what Spurs are doing."
Despite suggesting the personnel in Wenger's squad has improved, Walcott concedes the players lack confidence and has urged his teammates to start stronger in matches after goals from Juan Mata and Frank Lampard saw Arsenal trail after just 16 minutes in Sunday's defeat.
"I think there's a lack of belief here. We need to start realizing just how good we are. We've got some very, very good players but some of them don't believe they are good enough at times," Walcott said.
"We showed some great stuff in the second half at Chelsea and that didn't surprise me. But we can't be coming out of the blocks as slowly as we have done.
"As soon as we pressurized Chelsea after the break we showed what we can do. But we need to play like that for 90 minutes, not just the second half."
- Status
