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Manchester United wanted Hamburg striker Heung-Min Son, claims agent
Manchester United wanted South Korea international Heung-Min Son this summer, claims the player's agent.
The striker left Hamburg to join Bayer Leverkusen but the player's representative claims the Red Devils attempted to bring the forward to the Premier League.
The 21-year-old's agent says Son rejected the move to Old Trafford in order to continue his development as a player with first team football in the Bundesliga.
"Manchester wanted Sonny, they had a strong interest and had contacted HSV. We already talked," his agent told Bild.
"Their interest honoured him, but Leverkusen made the better impression. It's the ideal interim stage for his career right now."
Son scored 20 goals for Hamburg in 73 appearances over three years before leaving for Leverkusen this summer.
He has made four appearances for his new club, scoring once.
Manchester United wanted South Korea international Heung-Min Son this summer, claims the player's agent.
The striker left Hamburg to join Bayer Leverkusen but the player's representative claims the Red Devils attempted to bring the forward to the Premier League.
The 21-year-old's agent says Son rejected the move to Old Trafford in order to continue his development as a player with first team football in the Bundesliga.
"Manchester wanted Sonny, they had a strong interest and had contacted HSV. We already talked," his agent told Bild.
"Their interest honoured him, but Leverkusen made the better impression. It's the ideal interim stage for his career right now."
Son scored 20 goals for Hamburg in 73 appearances over three years before leaving for Leverkusen this summer.
He has made four appearances for his new club, scoring once.
Cole pays tribute to Lampard as he joins England's centurions
Ashley Cole has paid tribute to his England and Chelsea team-mate Frank Lampard ahead of Tuesday's game against Ukraine where he is expected to earn his 100th cap.
Lampard is set to join Cole and Steven Gerrard as the Three Lions' active centurions when he takes to the field in the crucial World Cup qualifier in Kiev.
Cole, who picked up his 100th cap in a friendly against Brazil earlier this year, says he will be one of the first to congratulate his club and country team-mate on his latest achievement.
"I don't think he needs me to give him any advice so it'll probably be a pat on the back and just congratulate him," Cole told TheFA.com.
"It's a great achievement, I think he was very nice with the comments he made about me when I did it and the same when Stevie G did it.
"I think if there's another player who does deserve it, it's him.
"So I'm very happy for him and hopefully we can get a good result for him as well."
Lampard has scored 29 goals in 99 appearances for England, including a record nine penalties.
Ashley Cole has paid tribute to his England and Chelsea team-mate Frank Lampard ahead of Tuesday's game against Ukraine where he is expected to earn his 100th cap.
Lampard is set to join Cole and Steven Gerrard as the Three Lions' active centurions when he takes to the field in the crucial World Cup qualifier in Kiev.
Cole, who picked up his 100th cap in a friendly against Brazil earlier this year, says he will be one of the first to congratulate his club and country team-mate on his latest achievement.
"I don't think he needs me to give him any advice so it'll probably be a pat on the back and just congratulate him," Cole told TheFA.com.
"It's a great achievement, I think he was very nice with the comments he made about me when I did it and the same when Stevie G did it.
"I think if there's another player who does deserve it, it's him.
"So I'm very happy for him and hopefully we can get a good result for him as well."
Lampard has scored 29 goals in 99 appearances for England, including a record nine penalties.
Caceres injury blow for Juventus
Juventus have been handed an injury blow with the news that Martin Caceres will spend the next six weeks on the sidelines after undergoing knee surgery.
The Uruguay international picked up the injury while away on international duty and will be out of action for an estimated six weeks.
"Martin Caceres was this morning operated on at Turin’s Fornaca clinic after reporting back from last weekend’s international duty with a knee injury," a statement on the official Juventus website reads.
"The defender underwent arthroscopic lateral meniscectomy surgery on his right knee, with the procedure carried out successfully by Professor Quaglia.
"Caceres will now rest for a few days before beginning physiotherapy treatment. He is expected to be out of action for up to 40 days."
The 25-year-old had yet to feature in Serie A this term, but did take part in Juventus' Supercoppa Italiana win over Lazio.
Juventus have been handed an injury blow with the news that Martin Caceres will spend the next six weeks on the sidelines after undergoing knee surgery.
The Uruguay international picked up the injury while away on international duty and will be out of action for an estimated six weeks.
"Martin Caceres was this morning operated on at Turin’s Fornaca clinic after reporting back from last weekend’s international duty with a knee injury," a statement on the official Juventus website reads.
"The defender underwent arthroscopic lateral meniscectomy surgery on his right knee, with the procedure carried out successfully by Professor Quaglia.
"Caceres will now rest for a few days before beginning physiotherapy treatment. He is expected to be out of action for up to 40 days."
The 25-year-old had yet to feature in Serie A this term, but did take part in Juventus' Supercoppa Italiana win over Lazio.
Belgium to host Japan in November
Belgium will host Japan in a November 19 friendly in Brussels, Goal has learned.
The Blue Samurai were the first side to qualify for the 2014 World Cup and are eager to test themselves against the calibre of country they expect to face next June in Brazil.
Japan coach Alberto Zaccheroni travelled to Europe with his team in 2012, where they played France and Brazil, and is eager to continue that trend by testing the nation against the continent's best international sides.
The Italian's desire for high-profile friendlies on enemy soil is no secret and Japan are already scheduled to travel to Serbia and Belarus in October.
The friendly, which has not been announced officially by either country's football association, was reported by local media on Belgium public television program La Tribune. Belgium are currently top of Group A in Uefa's World Cup qualifying.
Japan are undefeated in three matches against the 10th-ranked Fifa side, including a famous 2-2 draw in their 2002 World Cup opener at Saitama Stadium.
Belgium will host Japan in a November 19 friendly in Brussels, Goal has learned.
The Blue Samurai were the first side to qualify for the 2014 World Cup and are eager to test themselves against the calibre of country they expect to face next June in Brazil.
Japan coach Alberto Zaccheroni travelled to Europe with his team in 2012, where they played France and Brazil, and is eager to continue that trend by testing the nation against the continent's best international sides.
The Italian's desire for high-profile friendlies on enemy soil is no secret and Japan are already scheduled to travel to Serbia and Belarus in October.
The friendly, which has not been announced officially by either country's football association, was reported by local media on Belgium public television program La Tribune. Belgium are currently top of Group A in Uefa's World Cup qualifying.
Japan are undefeated in three matches against the 10th-ranked Fifa side, including a famous 2-2 draw in their 2002 World Cup opener at Saitama Stadium.
Cesc Fabregas insists tension between Real Madrid and Barcelona players no longer exists in the Spain squad.
A scuffle ensued on the pitch in a friendly encounter with Chile in 2011, with players from both clubs becoming embroiled in confrontation with each other as well as with the opposition.
Speaking ahead of the meeting of the sides on Tuesday, Fabregas feels there is far greater unity within the Roja ranks now and believes further success is dependent on such a positive atmosphere.
"I remember what happened in that friendly in Switzerland two years ago," he told reporters.
"There was a lot of tension between the players of Real Madrid and Barcelona at the time, but we came together.
"Now there is a great atmosphere. We are very professional and know how to separate the difference in our clubs.
"We fight for the same goal, which is one of the keys that has brought us good results."
Fabregas also expressed his delight at being a regular in Vicente del Bosque’s starting XI and called on his side not to underestimate Tuesday's oppoenents, especially having been warned by Barca team-mate Alexis Sanchez of Chile's desire to avenge their World Cup defeat.
"Every time I am selected I feel more important. It makes me feel special and want to play on," the 26-year-old continued.
"Chile are warriors and tend to run around a lot if you let them. They are very competitive are very talented, with important players playing in big clubs. I'll have to go out and compete.
"I talked to Alexis about the match. He tells me they are very motivated and are eager to beat us in revenge for what happened in the last friendly and in the World Cup."
Sturridge vows not to rest on laurels
Daniel Sturridge insists there is no room for complacency as he looks to establish himself as one of the best players in England.The Liverpool striker has started the new Premier League campaign in superb form, scoring three goals in as many games to lift his club to the top of the division thanks to a trio of 1-0 wins.
Sturridge's early-season showings led Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers to say the 24-year-old has all the necessary attributes to become one of the leading forwards in the top flight and make himself a fixture in Roy Hodgson's first-choice England team.
But although he was thrilled to receive such backing from his boss, the fomer Chelsea and Manchester City man is under no illusions as to the challenges ahead if he is to achieve his potential."It was good to hear. It's always good to hear positive things from your manager, especially. I'm working as hard as I possibly can and I want to improve as much as possible," he told Liverpool's official website.
"I'm not resting on my laurels or thinking I'm complete because I know I'm not. I'm trying my best to make sure I improve all the abilities I've been blessed with. I won't stop until I get to where I believe I should be."
Sturridge was set to play a big part in England's World Cup 2014 qualifiers in the current international break, but a thigh injury forced him out of Friday's 4-0 win over Moldova and caused him to withdraw from Hodgson's squad ahead of the crucial trip to Ukraine on Tuesday.
However, despite the fact the striker is determined to represent his country at Brazil 2014 should they qualify, performing at club level is his first and foremost priority.
"I'm more worried about Liverpool and more worried about putting in good performances for us, us winning games and challenging for trophies. That's my main ambition - it's not about playing for England," he added.
Daniel Sturridge insists there is no room for complacency as he looks to establish himself as one of the best players in England.The Liverpool striker has started the new Premier League campaign in superb form, scoring three goals in as many games to lift his club to the top of the division thanks to a trio of 1-0 wins.
Sturridge's early-season showings led Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers to say the 24-year-old has all the necessary attributes to become one of the leading forwards in the top flight and make himself a fixture in Roy Hodgson's first-choice England team.
But although he was thrilled to receive such backing from his boss, the fomer Chelsea and Manchester City man is under no illusions as to the challenges ahead if he is to achieve his potential."It was good to hear. It's always good to hear positive things from your manager, especially. I'm working as hard as I possibly can and I want to improve as much as possible," he told Liverpool's official website.
"I'm not resting on my laurels or thinking I'm complete because I know I'm not. I'm trying my best to make sure I improve all the abilities I've been blessed with. I won't stop until I get to where I believe I should be."
Sturridge was set to play a big part in England's World Cup 2014 qualifiers in the current international break, but a thigh injury forced him out of Friday's 4-0 win over Moldova and caused him to withdraw from Hodgson's squad ahead of the crucial trip to Ukraine on Tuesday.
However, despite the fact the striker is determined to represent his country at Brazil 2014 should they qualify, performing at club level is his first and foremost priority.
"I'm more worried about Liverpool and more worried about putting in good performances for us, us winning games and challenging for trophies. That's my main ambition - it's not about playing for England," he added.
Pique: Barcelona were slaves of their own tiki-taka style
Gerard Pique believes that Barcelona had become predictable under Pep Guardiola and Tito Vilanova and has insisted that new coach Gerardo Martino's tactical approach gives them more options.
The towering defender feels the Blaugrana lacked alternatives to their possession based style of play in the past few years and thinks Martino's arrival will help revitalise them and give the team a plan B.
"We've had a number of years with homegrown coaches in charge, first Pep and then Tito," the 26-year-old told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
"We occasionally tended to exaggerate our possession based stye of play to the point where we were slaves of our own philosophy.
"Now we have Tata as our coach, who has the same football philosophy, but also has other alternatives and that is a very positive thing in my opionion.
"If you are under pressure, there's nothing wrong with a long ball every now and then. That changes the game and could give you some rest and oxygen.
"You have to keep improving and developing in football or you will become predictable."
Martino replaced Vilanova at the helm at the start of the 2013-14 campaign due to the latter's ongoing health problems.
Gerard Pique believes that Barcelona had become predictable under Pep Guardiola and Tito Vilanova and has insisted that new coach Gerardo Martino's tactical approach gives them more options.
The towering defender feels the Blaugrana lacked alternatives to their possession based style of play in the past few years and thinks Martino's arrival will help revitalise them and give the team a plan B.
"We've had a number of years with homegrown coaches in charge, first Pep and then Tito," the 26-year-old told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
"We occasionally tended to exaggerate our possession based stye of play to the point where we were slaves of our own philosophy.
"Now we have Tata as our coach, who has the same football philosophy, but also has other alternatives and that is a very positive thing in my opionion.
"If you are under pressure, there's nothing wrong with a long ball every now and then. That changes the game and could give you some rest and oxygen.
"You have to keep improving and developing in football or you will become predictable."
Martino replaced Vilanova at the helm at the start of the 2013-14 campaign due to the latter's ongoing health problems.
Neymar is the best player in the world, says El Shaarawy
AC Milan attacker Stephan El Shaarawy has voiced his opinion that Brazil international Neymar is the best player in the world at the moment.
Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Franck Ribery are seen as the favourites to win this year's Fifa Ballon d'Or, but El Shaarawy believes Neymar is even better than the aforementioned trio.
"I'd say Neymar is the best player in the world at the moment," El Shaarawy told reporters.
"I played against him in Geneva with Italy back in March and he was simply incredible on the ball."
The young forward then went on to voice his admiration for Serie A greats such as Kaka - who recently completed his return to Milan after a four-year spell at Real Madrid - Alessandro Del Piero and Francesco Totti.
"I had a number of idols. It was great to see players such as Kaka and Del Piero week after week. Totti was another of my biggest idols. It's crazy to be playing against him now."
AC Milan attacker Stephan El Shaarawy has voiced his opinion that Brazil international Neymar is the best player in the world at the moment.
Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Franck Ribery are seen as the favourites to win this year's Fifa Ballon d'Or, but El Shaarawy believes Neymar is even better than the aforementioned trio.
"I'd say Neymar is the best player in the world at the moment," El Shaarawy told reporters.
"I played against him in Geneva with Italy back in March and he was simply incredible on the ball."
The young forward then went on to voice his admiration for Serie A greats such as Kaka - who recently completed his return to Milan after a four-year spell at Real Madrid - Alessandro Del Piero and Francesco Totti.
"I had a number of idols. It was great to see players such as Kaka and Del Piero week after week. Totti was another of my biggest idols. It's crazy to be playing against him now."
Full Time
Spain 2 Vs 2 Chile
Spain Goal(s)
Soldado 38'
Jesus Navas 90+2'
&
Chile Goal(s)
Eduardo Vargas 5',44'
Spain 2 Vs 2 Chile
Spain Goal(s)
Soldado 38'
Jesus Navas 90+2'
&
Chile Goal(s)
Eduardo Vargas 5',44'
Draw unath patta gemak giya
Spain anthima tike dunna gema patta
Congratulations Spain
VAMOS ESPANA
Spain anthima tike dunna gema pattaCongratulations SpainVAMOS ESPANA
Paraguay 2-5 Argentina: Messi at the double as Argentina book their World Cup place
Argentina have booked a place at the 2014 World Cup after a 5-2 win over Paraguay in Asuncion on Tuesday.
Alejandro Sabella's men were the dominant side at Estadio Defensores del Chaco, winning thanks to a brace of Lionel Messi penalties, plus goals from Sergio Aguero, Angel Di Maria and Maxi Rodriguez.
Argentina goalkeeper Sergio Romero's howler gifted an equaliser to Paraguay in the first half through Jose Nunez but Di Maria and Messi put the result beyond doubt shortly after the break as their side stayed top of CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying.
Roque Santa Cruz scored a late consolation goal for Paraguay, who cannot qualify for the World Cup.
Now seven points clear of fifth-placed Uruguay with two games remaining, Argentina join hosts Brazil as the two South American teams with a place booked at the 2014 tournament.
Argentina struck first on 12 minutes after a fast counter-attack led to Paraguay being exposed on the break.
It was a three-on-one break and Di Maria's pass found Aguero at the back post, with the Manchester City forward brought down by the advancing Roberto Fernandez.
Messi stepped up and placed his penalty into the bottom corner as Fernandez dived the wrong way, giving him his 36th goal for Argentina.
The goal sent the Barcelona star into clear second on the all-time leading goalscorers list for his country, ahead of Hernan Crespo (35) but still some way behind Gabriel Batistuta (56).
Argentina's lead only lasted five minutes before a howler from Romero gifted Paraguay their equaliser.
Nunez flicked Miguel Samudio's cross goal-ward and Romero should have dealt with the effort but it bounced over the diving goalkeeper and into the net.
Argentina should have restored their lead three minutes later, but – with an open goal to aim at – Inter striker Rodrigo Palacio put his header wide from close range.
Paraguay captain Santa Cruz was denied by Romero on the half-hour mark, with the goalkeeper tipping the Malaga striker's header over.
It was the combination between Messi and Aguero which led to the latter giving Argentina a 2-1 lead, just moments after another nervy moment by Romero when he dropped a cross.
Messi cushioned down a pass with his chest for Aguero, who took a touch before firing into the bottom corner with his left foot.
Argentina were being given far too much space in the attacking third and Messi had two strikes at goal saved by Fernandez before half-time.
Aguero thought he had given Argentina a two-goal lead on the stroke of half-time but he was correctly ruled offside.
If Paraguay held some hope heading into the second half, it was dashed inside eight minutes after the break.
Di Maria netted in a one-on-one with Fernandez after a lovely Fernando Gago pass before Messi scored from the penalty spot again.
It was a soft penalty awarded against Salustiano Candia for a foul on Messi but came after Paraguay were again left exposed and outnumbered at the back.
Messi chose the other way with his penalty – shooting to Fernandez's left – but the Cerro Porteno goalkeeper was still unable to keep it out as the 26-year-old scored his 10th goal of the qualifying campaign.
Di Maria was denied a second when he had a shot cleared off the line by Oscar Romero after exchanging passes with Messi on the hour-mark.
Romero kept out Nunez with a fine save as the tempo slowed but there was still time for Paraguay to score a consolation goal through Santa Cruz, who tapped in Samudio's cross in the 86th minute, while Rodriguez capped off the rout for Argentina when he scored four minutes later.
Argentina have booked a place at the 2014 World Cup after a 5-2 win over Paraguay in Asuncion on Tuesday.
Alejandro Sabella's men were the dominant side at Estadio Defensores del Chaco, winning thanks to a brace of Lionel Messi penalties, plus goals from Sergio Aguero, Angel Di Maria and Maxi Rodriguez.
Argentina goalkeeper Sergio Romero's howler gifted an equaliser to Paraguay in the first half through Jose Nunez but Di Maria and Messi put the result beyond doubt shortly after the break as their side stayed top of CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying.
Roque Santa Cruz scored a late consolation goal for Paraguay, who cannot qualify for the World Cup.
Now seven points clear of fifth-placed Uruguay with two games remaining, Argentina join hosts Brazil as the two South American teams with a place booked at the 2014 tournament.
Argentina struck first on 12 minutes after a fast counter-attack led to Paraguay being exposed on the break.
It was a three-on-one break and Di Maria's pass found Aguero at the back post, with the Manchester City forward brought down by the advancing Roberto Fernandez.
Messi stepped up and placed his penalty into the bottom corner as Fernandez dived the wrong way, giving him his 36th goal for Argentina.
The goal sent the Barcelona star into clear second on the all-time leading goalscorers list for his country, ahead of Hernan Crespo (35) but still some way behind Gabriel Batistuta (56).
Argentina's lead only lasted five minutes before a howler from Romero gifted Paraguay their equaliser.
Nunez flicked Miguel Samudio's cross goal-ward and Romero should have dealt with the effort but it bounced over the diving goalkeeper and into the net.
Argentina should have restored their lead three minutes later, but – with an open goal to aim at – Inter striker Rodrigo Palacio put his header wide from close range.
Paraguay captain Santa Cruz was denied by Romero on the half-hour mark, with the goalkeeper tipping the Malaga striker's header over.
It was the combination between Messi and Aguero which led to the latter giving Argentina a 2-1 lead, just moments after another nervy moment by Romero when he dropped a cross.
Messi cushioned down a pass with his chest for Aguero, who took a touch before firing into the bottom corner with his left foot.
Argentina were being given far too much space in the attacking third and Messi had two strikes at goal saved by Fernandez before half-time.
Aguero thought he had given Argentina a two-goal lead on the stroke of half-time but he was correctly ruled offside.
If Paraguay held some hope heading into the second half, it was dashed inside eight minutes after the break.
Di Maria netted in a one-on-one with Fernandez after a lovely Fernando Gago pass before Messi scored from the penalty spot again.
It was a soft penalty awarded against Salustiano Candia for a foul on Messi but came after Paraguay were again left exposed and outnumbered at the back.
Messi chose the other way with his penalty – shooting to Fernandez's left – but the Cerro Porteno goalkeeper was still unable to keep it out as the 26-year-old scored his 10th goal of the qualifying campaign.
Di Maria was denied a second when he had a shot cleared off the line by Oscar Romero after exchanging passes with Messi on the hour-mark.
Romero kept out Nunez with a fine save as the tempo slowed but there was still time for Paraguay to score a consolation goal through Santa Cruz, who tapped in Samudio's cross in the 86th minute, while Rodriguez capped off the rout for Argentina when he scored four minutes later.
USA 2-0 Mexico: Americans coast past CONCACAF rival to inch closer to World Cup
COLUMBUS, Ohio -- The United States has qualified for the World Cup while Mexico has taken another step backward after the Americans held on for a 2-0 victory over their CONCACAF rivals in a crucial CONCACAF qualifying match at Columbus Crew Stadium on Tuesday.
Coming off a devastating loss at Costa Rica four days earlier, Eddie Johnson and Landon Donovan scored in the second half to put the Stars and Stripes in position to finish in the top three of the Hexagonal to book a place in Brazil next summer.
The USA, which moved back into first place ahead of Costa Rica, officially qualified for the World Cup after Panama lost to Honduras an hour after the final whistle of its win.
Costa Rica, which beat the U.S. 3-1 on Friday and played to a shocking draw with Jamaica earlier Tuesday, is in second place. Honduras is currently in third followed by Mexico in fourth.
The top three CONCACAF teams qualify for next year's 32-nation competition in Brazil, and the fourth-place finisher will play in a one-game playoff with Oceania winner New Zealand.
Fighting for position, the U.S. was without arguably the region's top player, Michael Bradley, who sat out for the second straight game with an ankle injury. Three additional Americans also missed the match because of yellow card accumulation: forward Jozy Altidore, midfielder Geoff Cameron and defender Matt Besler.
Ahead of the game, Klinsmann called in four additional players, including Clarence Goodson, who started in place of Besler in central defense along with Omar Gonzalez. Fabian Johnson shifted from midfield to the back line opposite of left back DaMarcus Beasley. Jermaine Jones, Clint Dempsey, Donovan, Alejandro Bedoya and lone striker Johnson filled out the 4-2-3-1 formation.
Mexico opened the match with a different feel from Friday, when the team had a late second-half collapse at home against Honduras for its second loss in the Hexagonal that ultimately led to the firing of coach Jose Manuel de la Torre. He was replaced by Luis Fernando Tena, who put star striker Javier 'Chicharito' Hernandez back in the starting XI despite the striker coming off a hamstring injury.
After shifting much of their lineup from the Costa Rica loss, the Americans looked a bit unsettled after kickoff. Mexico was on the attack early, forcing goalkeeper Tim Howard to make a diving save on an attempt from Christian Giménez in the 18th minute for the first scoring opportunity from either side in the first half.
But after the nervy moment, Jurgen Klinsmann's men calmed down and had some chances of their own, with both Dempsey and Donovan getting into the box for shots that were blocked by Mexican defenders. Johnson nearly had the opener off a corner kick in the 32nd minute, but Mexico keeper Jesus Corona saved the attempt on the goal line.
The teams entered the half scoreless. But that wouldn't last long.
Playing with a sense of urgency in front of a raucous crowd, the U.S. came out of the locker room much like Mexico did to open the game. However, the Stars and Stripes were able to capitalize off of their surge when Johnson used his head to slip one into El Tri's goal.
Johnson, who has reinvented himself on the U.S. national team after rejoining MLS last year, sneaked into the middle off a corner kick delivered by Donovan, beat Corona to the ball and headed it in to help the Americans move one step closer to stamping their passports for Brazil.
Later in the half, Johnson was forced to leave the game with a head injury after taking a nasty fall on the pitch while going up for a header midway through the second half. He was replaced by Mix Diskerud, but it turned out the loss of the team's best offensive player on the night wouldn't cause any harm.
For insurance, with just over 12 minutes remaining in the match, Diskerud kept a short throw-in alive in the box and put his head up to find Donovan at the far post to poke home the second goal of the match.
With just seconds left to play, Dempsey nearly made it an even worse night for the visitors but he was unable to convert on a penalty kick that flew to the right of the goal.
The U.S. improved to 24-0-2 in home qualifiers since losing to Honduras in September 2001 at RFK Stadium in Washington, and is now 38-1-7 in qualifiers at home since losing to Costa Rica in 1985.
The nation has also defeated Mexico at Columbus Crew Stadium for the fourth straight World Cup qualifier after topping its biggest rival by a scoreline of 2-0 in 2001, 2005 and 2009. The Americans increased their undefeated run at the MLS stadium overall by winning for the seventh time to go along with two draws.
While the U.S. fans, led by the American Outlaws supporting group, left the party atmosphere at the stadium, El Tri left with their heads down looking for answers. Tena may find himself out after just one game in charge as the team would need two wins in two games for any hope of reaching the World Cup on an automatic bid.
COLUMBUS, Ohio -- The United States has qualified for the World Cup while Mexico has taken another step backward after the Americans held on for a 2-0 victory over their CONCACAF rivals in a crucial CONCACAF qualifying match at Columbus Crew Stadium on Tuesday.
Coming off a devastating loss at Costa Rica four days earlier, Eddie Johnson and Landon Donovan scored in the second half to put the Stars and Stripes in position to finish in the top three of the Hexagonal to book a place in Brazil next summer.
The USA, which moved back into first place ahead of Costa Rica, officially qualified for the World Cup after Panama lost to Honduras an hour after the final whistle of its win.
Costa Rica, which beat the U.S. 3-1 on Friday and played to a shocking draw with Jamaica earlier Tuesday, is in second place. Honduras is currently in third followed by Mexico in fourth.
The top three CONCACAF teams qualify for next year's 32-nation competition in Brazil, and the fourth-place finisher will play in a one-game playoff with Oceania winner New Zealand.
Fighting for position, the U.S. was without arguably the region's top player, Michael Bradley, who sat out for the second straight game with an ankle injury. Three additional Americans also missed the match because of yellow card accumulation: forward Jozy Altidore, midfielder Geoff Cameron and defender Matt Besler.
Ahead of the game, Klinsmann called in four additional players, including Clarence Goodson, who started in place of Besler in central defense along with Omar Gonzalez. Fabian Johnson shifted from midfield to the back line opposite of left back DaMarcus Beasley. Jermaine Jones, Clint Dempsey, Donovan, Alejandro Bedoya and lone striker Johnson filled out the 4-2-3-1 formation.
Mexico opened the match with a different feel from Friday, when the team had a late second-half collapse at home against Honduras for its second loss in the Hexagonal that ultimately led to the firing of coach Jose Manuel de la Torre. He was replaced by Luis Fernando Tena, who put star striker Javier 'Chicharito' Hernandez back in the starting XI despite the striker coming off a hamstring injury.
After shifting much of their lineup from the Costa Rica loss, the Americans looked a bit unsettled after kickoff. Mexico was on the attack early, forcing goalkeeper Tim Howard to make a diving save on an attempt from Christian Giménez in the 18th minute for the first scoring opportunity from either side in the first half.
But after the nervy moment, Jurgen Klinsmann's men calmed down and had some chances of their own, with both Dempsey and Donovan getting into the box for shots that were blocked by Mexican defenders. Johnson nearly had the opener off a corner kick in the 32nd minute, but Mexico keeper Jesus Corona saved the attempt on the goal line.
The teams entered the half scoreless. But that wouldn't last long.
Playing with a sense of urgency in front of a raucous crowd, the U.S. came out of the locker room much like Mexico did to open the game. However, the Stars and Stripes were able to capitalize off of their surge when Johnson used his head to slip one into El Tri's goal.
Johnson, who has reinvented himself on the U.S. national team after rejoining MLS last year, sneaked into the middle off a corner kick delivered by Donovan, beat Corona to the ball and headed it in to help the Americans move one step closer to stamping their passports for Brazil.
Later in the half, Johnson was forced to leave the game with a head injury after taking a nasty fall on the pitch while going up for a header midway through the second half. He was replaced by Mix Diskerud, but it turned out the loss of the team's best offensive player on the night wouldn't cause any harm.
For insurance, with just over 12 minutes remaining in the match, Diskerud kept a short throw-in alive in the box and put his head up to find Donovan at the far post to poke home the second goal of the match.
With just seconds left to play, Dempsey nearly made it an even worse night for the visitors but he was unable to convert on a penalty kick that flew to the right of the goal.
The U.S. improved to 24-0-2 in home qualifiers since losing to Honduras in September 2001 at RFK Stadium in Washington, and is now 38-1-7 in qualifiers at home since losing to Costa Rica in 1985.
The nation has also defeated Mexico at Columbus Crew Stadium for the fourth straight World Cup qualifier after topping its biggest rival by a scoreline of 2-0 in 2001, 2005 and 2009. The Americans increased their undefeated run at the MLS stadium overall by winning for the seventh time to go along with two draws.
While the U.S. fans, led by the American Outlaws supporting group, left the party atmosphere at the stadium, El Tri left with their heads down looking for answers. Tena may find himself out after just one game in charge as the team would need two wins in two games for any hope of reaching the World Cup on an automatic bid.
Romania 0-2 Turkey: Burak helps keep World Cup hopes alive
Turkey kept their hopes of World Cup qualification alive by beating Romania 2-0 thanks to goals from Burak Yilmaz and Mevlut Erding.
The visitors scored a goal in each half with Burak heading home before the break and Erding capping off a brilliant win in the late on, curling a left-footed shot into the net from inside the penalty area.
Pre-match favourites Romania failed to fulfil expectations throughout as interim coach Fatih Terim, in his third spell in charge of the national side, continued to inspire Turkey.
The vital win extends the nation's unbeaten run to four matches in qualifying and keeps them in the hunt for a play-off spot behind runaway Group D leaders Netherlands, who qualified thanks to their 2-0 win against Andorra and Romania's loss.
Tuesday's hosts do have the easier run-in compared to Turkey. Victor Piturca's men play Andorra and Estonia in their final two games and will still be hopeful of reaching the World Cup.
The first chance of the game came in the sixth minute when Mihai Doru Pintilii took advantage of some lax Turkish defending to sneak in behind, but his weak cross was deflected out by goalkeeper Volkan Demirel.
The visitors responded minutes later, though, through Burak, but the 28-year-old, under the close attention of the Romanian defence, side-footed his effort at the goalkeeper.
But Burak made up for his miss in the 22nd minute when he rose above two Romanian defenders to head home and give Turkey a surprise lead. The makeshift forward stood his ground to glance Caner Erkin's wonderful cross past Ciprian Anton Tatarusanu's outstretched palm.Piturca made two substitutions after the interval, choosing to bring on Adrian Popa and Iulian Maxim as he tried to search for a way back into the match.
Turkey, though, could have easily been 2-0 up if Umut Bulut had been aware of how much time he had with only Tatarusanu to beat after he had been put through by Gokhan Tore.
Instead, the 30-year-old meekly hit his shot at Tatarusanu, even though he had team-mates in support.
Popa hit the post with a right-footed drive after 68 minutes as Romania pushed for an equaliser and Dorin Golan directed a late head straight at Demirel from a free kick.
Late substitute Erding then hit the second in injury-time when he evaded the raised legs of Romania's centre-halves to fire the ball home.
Turkey kept their hopes of World Cup qualification alive by beating Romania 2-0 thanks to goals from Burak Yilmaz and Mevlut Erding.
The visitors scored a goal in each half with Burak heading home before the break and Erding capping off a brilliant win in the late on, curling a left-footed shot into the net from inside the penalty area.
Pre-match favourites Romania failed to fulfil expectations throughout as interim coach Fatih Terim, in his third spell in charge of the national side, continued to inspire Turkey.
The vital win extends the nation's unbeaten run to four matches in qualifying and keeps them in the hunt for a play-off spot behind runaway Group D leaders Netherlands, who qualified thanks to their 2-0 win against Andorra and Romania's loss.
Tuesday's hosts do have the easier run-in compared to Turkey. Victor Piturca's men play Andorra and Estonia in their final two games and will still be hopeful of reaching the World Cup.
The first chance of the game came in the sixth minute when Mihai Doru Pintilii took advantage of some lax Turkish defending to sneak in behind, but his weak cross was deflected out by goalkeeper Volkan Demirel.
The visitors responded minutes later, though, through Burak, but the 28-year-old, under the close attention of the Romanian defence, side-footed his effort at the goalkeeper.
But Burak made up for his miss in the 22nd minute when he rose above two Romanian defenders to head home and give Turkey a surprise lead. The makeshift forward stood his ground to glance Caner Erkin's wonderful cross past Ciprian Anton Tatarusanu's outstretched palm.Piturca made two substitutions after the interval, choosing to bring on Adrian Popa and Iulian Maxim as he tried to search for a way back into the match.
Turkey, though, could have easily been 2-0 up if Umut Bulut had been aware of how much time he had with only Tatarusanu to beat after he had been put through by Gokhan Tore.
Instead, the 30-year-old meekly hit his shot at Tatarusanu, even though he had team-mates in support.
Popa hit the post with a right-footed drive after 68 minutes as Romania pushed for an equaliser and Dorin Golan directed a late head straight at Demirel from a free kick.
Late substitute Erding then hit the second in injury-time when he evaded the raised legs of Romania's centre-halves to fire the ball home.
Belarus 2-4 France: Ribery stars as Bleus end barren spell in style
France ended their recent barren spell in style by beating Belarus thrillingly 4-2 finish on Tuesday, despite going behind twice.
Franck Ribery hit equalisers in either half after Egor Filipenko and Timofei Kalachev had each edged the home side ahead.
Samir Nasri and Paul Pogba then added the extras to guarantee France at least a place in the FIFA World Cup qualifying play-offs and move them level on points with leaders Spain, having played a game more than the world champions.
Didier Deschamps made four changes from France's 0-0 draw with Georgia, as Karim Benzema, goalless for his country since June 2012, was dropped, with Olivier Giroud starting in his place.
Belarus had the first chance of the match courtesy of Sergey Balanovich after eight minutes, but he could only drag his effort wide of Hugo Lloris' far post.
France had not scored or won in their last five games going into the clash in Gomel and they struggled to create chances of note in the first half, as the hosts enjoyed the better of the possession.
The home side were rewarded for their play after 32 minutes when Filipenko headed home thanks to a Lloris error. The defender headed down from a corner with the Tottenham goalkeeper failing to keep out the effort.
While France looked to hit back before half-time, the hosts stood firm to lead at the break, but two minutes into the second half France were level after Giroud played in Ribery, who was then brought down by Belarus' goalkeeper Sergei Veremko in the penalty area.
Ribery sent Veremko the wrong way from the spot, coolly placing the ball to his left to score France's first goal since March and bring the visitors level.
France may have improved in the minutes after but Belarus were quickly ahead again, with Lloris at fault once more. Kalachev struck a fairly routine effort from just outside the area after 57 minutes which beat the Frenchman at his near post.
Ribery gained two assists and a goal in the reverse fixture and, seven minutes later, he brought France level again. Europe's recently-crowned best player latched onto a cross from Mathieu Valbuena from the right to tap home at the far post.
France went ahead for the first time in the match after 70 minutes through substitute Nasri. The Manchester City midfielder drove a right-footed effort through a crowd of Belarusian defenders to beat Vermenko and edge his side ahead.
Two minutes later, France were home and hosed when Pogba capitalised on a loose ball in the box to poke home his first international goal.
France ended their recent barren spell in style by beating Belarus thrillingly 4-2 finish on Tuesday, despite going behind twice.
Franck Ribery hit equalisers in either half after Egor Filipenko and Timofei Kalachev had each edged the home side ahead.
Samir Nasri and Paul Pogba then added the extras to guarantee France at least a place in the FIFA World Cup qualifying play-offs and move them level on points with leaders Spain, having played a game more than the world champions.
Didier Deschamps made four changes from France's 0-0 draw with Georgia, as Karim Benzema, goalless for his country since June 2012, was dropped, with Olivier Giroud starting in his place.
Belarus had the first chance of the match courtesy of Sergey Balanovich after eight minutes, but he could only drag his effort wide of Hugo Lloris' far post.
France had not scored or won in their last five games going into the clash in Gomel and they struggled to create chances of note in the first half, as the hosts enjoyed the better of the possession.
The home side were rewarded for their play after 32 minutes when Filipenko headed home thanks to a Lloris error. The defender headed down from a corner with the Tottenham goalkeeper failing to keep out the effort.
While France looked to hit back before half-time, the hosts stood firm to lead at the break, but two minutes into the second half France were level after Giroud played in Ribery, who was then brought down by Belarus' goalkeeper Sergei Veremko in the penalty area.
Ribery sent Veremko the wrong way from the spot, coolly placing the ball to his left to score France's first goal since March and bring the visitors level.
France may have improved in the minutes after but Belarus were quickly ahead again, with Lloris at fault once more. Kalachev struck a fairly routine effort from just outside the area after 57 minutes which beat the Frenchman at his near post.
Ribery gained two assists and a goal in the reverse fixture and, seven minutes later, he brought France level again. Europe's recently-crowned best player latched onto a cross from Mathieu Valbuena from the right to tap home at the far post.
France went ahead for the first time in the match after 70 minutes through substitute Nasri. The Manchester City midfielder drove a right-footed effort through a crowd of Belarusian defenders to beat Vermenko and edge his side ahead.
Two minutes later, France were home and hosed when Pogba capitalised on a loose ball in the box to poke home his first international goal.
Faroe Islands 0-3 Germany: Ozil on target in comfortable win
Mesut Ozil scored a second-half penalty as Germany cruised to a 3-0 win over Faroe Islands on Tuesday.
The new Arsenal signing struck midway through the second half after club-mate Per Mertesacker has put Joachim Low's side in front, with Thomas Muller sealing the three points in the closing minutes.
The hosts made three changes from the team that lost 2-1 in Kazakhstan on Friday, with Atli Gregersen, Pol Johannus Justinussen and Daniel Udsen replacing Jonas Naes, Hallur Hansson and Christian Mouritsen.
Germany had just one change from the side that defeated Austria 3-0 on Friday, with Julian Draxler coming in for Marco Reus, who was absent with a stomach infection.
The visitors fired the first warning shot in the fourth minute as Sami Khedira sent a low drive narrowly wide of Gunnar Nielsen's right-hand post, before Suni Olsen deflected the ball onto his own crossbar from Draxler's cutback.
The hosts responded immediately, Justinussen breaking down the left and letting fly with an effort from the corner of the box that Manuel Neuer had to be alert to tip over.
Miroslav Klose was next to threaten the Faroe Islands goal, but his low drive in the 10th minute was saved by the legs of Nielsen.
Midway through the half, Klose was inches away from scoring a record-breaking 69th international goal for Germany.
After patient build-up play involving Muller and Philipp Lahm, Klose struck the base of the post from 10 yards before Gregersen hacked the rebound over his own crossbar.
But Germany were not to be denied for long as, from the resulting corner, Jerome Boateng flicked the ball on at the near post and Mertesacker prodded home from two yards out.
Klose continued to search in vain for the goal that would take him clear of Gerd Muller as his country's all-time leading goalscorer, as his header from Marcel Schmelzer's cross was gathered low to his left by Nielsen in the 30th minute.
Nielsen was called into action once again three minutes later, beating away Draxler's fierce effort following a short corner from Toni Kroos.
In the second half, Germany continued to press for a second goal, with Ozil curling a free-kick narrowly wide from 30 yards in the 48th minute.
Draxler created an opening for himself on the hour mark with some quick feet inside the area, but his left-footed effort lacked power and was easy for Nielsen to deal with.
Khedira almost grabbed a second in the 67th minute, rising at the far post to meet Draxler's cross from the left, but his downward header was cleared off the line by Rogvi Baldvinsson.
Five minutes later, Nielsen made hard work of denying the visitors once again, fumbling an Ozil shot before diving at Draxler's feet to smother the rebound.
A difficult night for the hosts was made even harder in the 73rd minute as Gregersen was dismissed for bringing down Muller inside the area as he bore down on Nielsen, and their resistance was finally broken.Ozil stepped up and calmly sent the goalkeeper the wrong way as Germany at last had the second goal their dominance merited.
With 10 minutes to go, substitute Andre Schurrle, on in place of Draxler, fired just over the angle of bar and post from outside the area as Germany looked to give the scoreline a more convincing gloss.
Muller did just that four minutes later, firing home from Lahm's cut-back from the right as the hosts visibly tired.
Germany currently lead Group C by five points with two games remaining and look a safe bet to progress to the finals in Brazil in 2014, with Sweden's earlier win over Kazakhstan denying them qualification on Tuesday.
Mesut Ozil scored a second-half penalty as Germany cruised to a 3-0 win over Faroe Islands on Tuesday.
The new Arsenal signing struck midway through the second half after club-mate Per Mertesacker has put Joachim Low's side in front, with Thomas Muller sealing the three points in the closing minutes.
The hosts made three changes from the team that lost 2-1 in Kazakhstan on Friday, with Atli Gregersen, Pol Johannus Justinussen and Daniel Udsen replacing Jonas Naes, Hallur Hansson and Christian Mouritsen.
Germany had just one change from the side that defeated Austria 3-0 on Friday, with Julian Draxler coming in for Marco Reus, who was absent with a stomach infection.
The visitors fired the first warning shot in the fourth minute as Sami Khedira sent a low drive narrowly wide of Gunnar Nielsen's right-hand post, before Suni Olsen deflected the ball onto his own crossbar from Draxler's cutback.
The hosts responded immediately, Justinussen breaking down the left and letting fly with an effort from the corner of the box that Manuel Neuer had to be alert to tip over.
Miroslav Klose was next to threaten the Faroe Islands goal, but his low drive in the 10th minute was saved by the legs of Nielsen.
Midway through the half, Klose was inches away from scoring a record-breaking 69th international goal for Germany.
After patient build-up play involving Muller and Philipp Lahm, Klose struck the base of the post from 10 yards before Gregersen hacked the rebound over his own crossbar.
But Germany were not to be denied for long as, from the resulting corner, Jerome Boateng flicked the ball on at the near post and Mertesacker prodded home from two yards out.
Klose continued to search in vain for the goal that would take him clear of Gerd Muller as his country's all-time leading goalscorer, as his header from Marcel Schmelzer's cross was gathered low to his left by Nielsen in the 30th minute.
Nielsen was called into action once again three minutes later, beating away Draxler's fierce effort following a short corner from Toni Kroos.
In the second half, Germany continued to press for a second goal, with Ozil curling a free-kick narrowly wide from 30 yards in the 48th minute.
Draxler created an opening for himself on the hour mark with some quick feet inside the area, but his left-footed effort lacked power and was easy for Nielsen to deal with.
Khedira almost grabbed a second in the 67th minute, rising at the far post to meet Draxler's cross from the left, but his downward header was cleared off the line by Rogvi Baldvinsson.
Five minutes later, Nielsen made hard work of denying the visitors once again, fumbling an Ozil shot before diving at Draxler's feet to smother the rebound.
A difficult night for the hosts was made even harder in the 73rd minute as Gregersen was dismissed for bringing down Muller inside the area as he bore down on Nielsen, and their resistance was finally broken.Ozil stepped up and calmly sent the goalkeeper the wrong way as Germany at last had the second goal their dominance merited.
With 10 minutes to go, substitute Andre Schurrle, on in place of Draxler, fired just over the angle of bar and post from outside the area as Germany looked to give the scoreline a more convincing gloss.
Muller did just that four minutes later, firing home from Lahm's cut-back from the right as the hosts visibly tired.
Germany currently lead Group C by five points with two games remaining and look a safe bet to progress to the finals in Brazil in 2014, with Sweden's earlier win over Kazakhstan denying them qualification on Tuesday.
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