Barclays Premier League 2012.08.21 Fixture
Barclays Premier League 2012.08.21 Fixture
Chelsea Vs Reading
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Chelsea 4-2 Reading: Hazard bags three assists as Blues come from behind to claim victory
Fernando Torres scored the decisive goal as Chelsea came from behind to beat Reading 4-2 at Stamford Bridge.
Frank Lampard opened the scoring with a powerful first-half penalty after Eden Hazard, who impressed once again, had been tripped by Chris Gunter.
Reading equalized shortly after through a thunderous Pavel Pogrebnyak header, before Petr Cech let a Danny Guthrie free kick squirm from his grasp and into his own net.
But Adam Federici followed suit, allowing a Gary Cahill shot to skid away from him, and with less than 10 minutes remaining, Torres was left with the simplest of finishes after good work by Juan Mata and Ashley Cole.
Branislav Ivanovic swept into an open goal in stoppage time, with Federici out of his area after attacking a corner.
Hazard, who had caught the eye in his Premier League debut against Wigan and had three assists against Reading, was involved inside two minutes, racing onto a pass from Mata on the left hand side, but the Belgian’s shot across goal failed to find the target and rolled wide.
Just five minutes later Chelsea went closer, as a lovely fluid passing move involving Torres and Branislav Ivanovic launched an attack for the returning Ramires, but the midfielder chose to test Adam Fedrici rather than play the Chelsea striker in with the goal at his mercy, and the Reading keeper palmed the ball away.
Reading launched a counterattack from Federici’s save, but lone striker Pavel Pogrebnyak flashed his shot wide, before Torres would get his first chance of the match.
The Spain international displayed some excellent trickery to deceive Jem Karacan and Kaspars Gorkss to make space in the penalty area, but his shot was blocked and flew to safety.
It was more Chelsea skill that would create the chance for the opening goal, as Hazard had his standing leg tripped in the box by Gunter, leaving match official Lee Mason with the easy decision to award the penalty.
Lampard stepped up and drilled low and powerfully to Federici’s right and, though the shot stopper dived the right way, he had little chance of keeping the spot kick out.
The home side’s lead lasted little more than five minutes though, as Pogrebnyak headed Reading level.
Garath McCleary exchanged a quick one-two with Danny Guthrie before finding the Russian, who showed expert movement to beat Gary Cahill and head into the top corner beyond Cech.
And, just before the half-hour mark, the visitors were in front after John Terry gave away a free kick for a foul on Jobi McAnuff around 20 yards from goal.
Guthrie blasted low and hard at Cech, but the 30-year old spilled a regulation save and could only watch the ball trickle into his net.
Chelsea had chances to equalize before the interval but Hazard fired over from distance before crossing for Torres, who nodded just wide, while Alex Pearce was inches away from extending the visitors’ lead, but could not connect with an Ian Harte free kick.
The Blues wasted no time in attempting to get back into the game after the break as Torres pulled back to the edge of the box for Ivanovic, but the defender’s shot sailed a long way over the bar.
But, with his side unable to break Reading down in the early stages of the second half, Roberto Di Matteo handed Oscar his Stamford Bridge debut, in place of compatriot Ramires.
Oscar was immediately among the action, nicking the ball away from Karacan, who upended the Brazilian and picked up a yellow card.
With over an hour played, Chelsea was finally able to carve out a second-half opening and after some pinball in the box following an Ivanovic pass, the ball fell to Hazard, but his shot was blocked by Pearce when Federici may well have been beaten.
Di Matteo was forced into another change as the hosts chased the elusive equalizer and replaced John Obi Mikel with Daniel Sturridge.
But it was a defender who would pull the scores level in the 70th minute, when Cahill’s speculative long-range effort bounced in front of the outstretched palms of Federici, who pushed the stinging shot into the bottom corner.
The equalizer appeared to have given Chelsea the impetus to press for a winner, with Juan Mata going close with a shot, beating Federici but curling wide.
And it was Mata again who went close with ten minutes remaining, scuffing wide after an Ivanovic cross cannoned into his path.
Just moments later though, Chelsea scored the winner as Ashley Cole darted onto a pass inside the box and squared for Torres, who got ahead of the resolute Reading backline and tapped into an empty net.
There were suspicions of offside surrounding the goal, but Chelsea took the three points in its first home game of the season as Federici came up for a corner and left his goal exposed, allowing the hosts to break through Hazard, who gifted Ivanovic an open goal.
Fernando Torres scored the decisive goal as Chelsea came from behind to beat Reading 4-2 at Stamford Bridge.
Frank Lampard opened the scoring with a powerful first-half penalty after Eden Hazard, who impressed once again, had been tripped by Chris Gunter.
Reading equalized shortly after through a thunderous Pavel Pogrebnyak header, before Petr Cech let a Danny Guthrie free kick squirm from his grasp and into his own net.
But Adam Federici followed suit, allowing a Gary Cahill shot to skid away from him, and with less than 10 minutes remaining, Torres was left with the simplest of finishes after good work by Juan Mata and Ashley Cole.
Branislav Ivanovic swept into an open goal in stoppage time, with Federici out of his area after attacking a corner.
Hazard, who had caught the eye in his Premier League debut against Wigan and had three assists against Reading, was involved inside two minutes, racing onto a pass from Mata on the left hand side, but the Belgian’s shot across goal failed to find the target and rolled wide.
Just five minutes later Chelsea went closer, as a lovely fluid passing move involving Torres and Branislav Ivanovic launched an attack for the returning Ramires, but the midfielder chose to test Adam Fedrici rather than play the Chelsea striker in with the goal at his mercy, and the Reading keeper palmed the ball away.
Reading launched a counterattack from Federici’s save, but lone striker Pavel Pogrebnyak flashed his shot wide, before Torres would get his first chance of the match.
The Spain international displayed some excellent trickery to deceive Jem Karacan and Kaspars Gorkss to make space in the penalty area, but his shot was blocked and flew to safety.
It was more Chelsea skill that would create the chance for the opening goal, as Hazard had his standing leg tripped in the box by Gunter, leaving match official Lee Mason with the easy decision to award the penalty.
Lampard stepped up and drilled low and powerfully to Federici’s right and, though the shot stopper dived the right way, he had little chance of keeping the spot kick out.
The home side’s lead lasted little more than five minutes though, as Pogrebnyak headed Reading level.
Garath McCleary exchanged a quick one-two with Danny Guthrie before finding the Russian, who showed expert movement to beat Gary Cahill and head into the top corner beyond Cech.
And, just before the half-hour mark, the visitors were in front after John Terry gave away a free kick for a foul on Jobi McAnuff around 20 yards from goal.
Guthrie blasted low and hard at Cech, but the 30-year old spilled a regulation save and could only watch the ball trickle into his net.
Chelsea had chances to equalize before the interval but Hazard fired over from distance before crossing for Torres, who nodded just wide, while Alex Pearce was inches away from extending the visitors’ lead, but could not connect with an Ian Harte free kick.
The Blues wasted no time in attempting to get back into the game after the break as Torres pulled back to the edge of the box for Ivanovic, but the defender’s shot sailed a long way over the bar.
But, with his side unable to break Reading down in the early stages of the second half, Roberto Di Matteo handed Oscar his Stamford Bridge debut, in place of compatriot Ramires.
Oscar was immediately among the action, nicking the ball away from Karacan, who upended the Brazilian and picked up a yellow card.
With over an hour played, Chelsea was finally able to carve out a second-half opening and after some pinball in the box following an Ivanovic pass, the ball fell to Hazard, but his shot was blocked by Pearce when Federici may well have been beaten.
Di Matteo was forced into another change as the hosts chased the elusive equalizer and replaced John Obi Mikel with Daniel Sturridge.
But it was a defender who would pull the scores level in the 70th minute, when Cahill’s speculative long-range effort bounced in front of the outstretched palms of Federici, who pushed the stinging shot into the bottom corner.
The equalizer appeared to have given Chelsea the impetus to press for a winner, with Juan Mata going close with a shot, beating Federici but curling wide.
And it was Mata again who went close with ten minutes remaining, scuffing wide after an Ivanovic cross cannoned into his path.
Just moments later though, Chelsea scored the winner as Ashley Cole darted onto a pass inside the box and squared for Torres, who got ahead of the resolute Reading backline and tapped into an empty net.
There were suspicions of offside surrounding the goal, but Chelsea took the three points in its first home game of the season as Federici came up for a corner and left his goal exposed, allowing the hosts to break through Hazard, who gifted Ivanovic an open goal.
Elatama Play karanawa
Cahill praises 'special' Chelsea teammate Hazard
Chelsea defender Gary Cahill has heaped praise on new signing Eden Hazard, after the Belgian international inspired the Blues' comeback against Reading at Stamford Bridge.
The 21-year-old was in imperious form against Wigan at the weekend and continued from where he left off, playing a key part in three of the four goals the Blues scored.
And Cahill, who felt he was at fault for Reading's opener, singled out the 32 million-pound man after inspiring the comeback.
"I thought [Hazard] was absolutely fantastic tonight," Cahill told Sky Sports News.
"The other day against Wigan obviously he was great again but tonight I thought he was special."
Cahill grabbed the equalizing goal when the Blues were 2-1 down, but also feels he took a portion of the blame for Reading's opener as Pavel Pogrebnyak beat him to head home.
"It was a superb cross and a great header, but I've got to be tighter," Cahill stated.
"It happened again about five or 10 minutes later and I got across, I should have done that first time but I'll learn from that. I thought we kept plugging away even though we were 2-1 down and there were some great performances out there.
Cahill missed Euro 2012 after sustaining a fractured jaw in the 1-0 friendly win over Belgium at Wembley, and also missed out on Saturday's opener at the expense of David Luiz. The Brazilian was unavailable for selection tonight due to a knee injury, and Cahill insists that everyone will have a part to play this year, much like last season.
He continued: "I think we'll all play our part, you saw that towards the end of last season. The rotation of the squad, there will be players in and out."
Chelsea defender Gary Cahill has heaped praise on new signing Eden Hazard, after the Belgian international inspired the Blues' comeback against Reading at Stamford Bridge.
The 21-year-old was in imperious form against Wigan at the weekend and continued from where he left off, playing a key part in three of the four goals the Blues scored.
And Cahill, who felt he was at fault for Reading's opener, singled out the 32 million-pound man after inspiring the comeback.
"I thought [Hazard] was absolutely fantastic tonight," Cahill told Sky Sports News.
"The other day against Wigan obviously he was great again but tonight I thought he was special."
Cahill grabbed the equalizing goal when the Blues were 2-1 down, but also feels he took a portion of the blame for Reading's opener as Pavel Pogrebnyak beat him to head home.
"It was a superb cross and a great header, but I've got to be tighter," Cahill stated.
"It happened again about five or 10 minutes later and I got across, I should have done that first time but I'll learn from that. I thought we kept plugging away even though we were 2-1 down and there were some great performances out there.
Cahill missed Euro 2012 after sustaining a fractured jaw in the 1-0 friendly win over Belgium at Wembley, and also missed out on Saturday's opener at the expense of David Luiz. The Brazilian was unavailable for selection tonight due to a knee injury, and Cahill insists that everyone will have a part to play this year, much like last season.
He continued: "I think we'll all play our part, you saw that towards the end of last season. The rotation of the squad, there will be players in and out."
Vilanova hungry for Supercopa glory ahead of Real Madrid clash
Tito Vilanova has defended the Supercopa after Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho claimed that the trophy was the least important he would contend this season.
The famous rivals go head to head for the first time this term on Thursday night and the Barcelona trainer was also quick to play down the pressure of his first managerial encounter against Madrid.
"I couldn't do my job well if I'm thinking the world will collapse if we lose," he said. "Madrid has very good players on the break. Pepe is a very quick player, who allows the Madrid defense to play more advanced."
"We have to be aware of Madrid's counter-attack, but we play at home and everybody knows our strengths", he added.
The 42-year-old remains unsure of his starting 11 for the clash, with a trip to Osasuna high on the horizon, just three days later.
"Alexis could play tomorrow. I haven't yet decided who'll play alongside Messi," he continued. "We will decide tomorrow if Song plays. He has quality and could play."
"There are some rumours about [Carles] Puyol having discomfort. Can he play tomorrow? No problem, he can play," he finished.
Tito Vilanova has defended the Supercopa after Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho claimed that the trophy was the least important he would contend this season.
The famous rivals go head to head for the first time this term on Thursday night and the Barcelona trainer was also quick to play down the pressure of his first managerial encounter against Madrid.
"I couldn't do my job well if I'm thinking the world will collapse if we lose," he said. "Madrid has very good players on the break. Pepe is a very quick player, who allows the Madrid defense to play more advanced."
"We have to be aware of Madrid's counter-attack, but we play at home and everybody knows our strengths", he added.
The 42-year-old remains unsure of his starting 11 for the clash, with a trip to Osasuna high on the horizon, just three days later.
"Alexis could play tomorrow. I haven't yet decided who'll play alongside Messi," he continued. "We will decide tomorrow if Song plays. He has quality and could play."
"There are some rumours about [Carles] Puyol having discomfort. Can he play tomorrow? No problem, he can play," he finished.
Modric transfer to Real Madrid imminent, claims Mamic
Tottenham midfielder Luka Modric's move to Real Madrid is certain to be completed shortly, according to Dinamo Zagreb director of football Zoran Mamic.
Modric joined Spurs from the Croatian club for 20.9 million euros in 2008 and the north London side is now reportedly demanding over double that for the diminutive playmaker.
Negotiations over his move to the Spanish giants have been ongoing through the summer, but Mamic insists they will conclude in time to meet the transfer deadline.
“You read many things in the media but from the information I have, Luka will move to Real Madrid for sure,” Mamic told 24sata.
"I've heard it's almost done, so I don't have any doubts Luka will play for Real Madrid next season,” Mamic continued.
"It is just a question of when the official announcement will be."
Modric has made 127 league appearances for Tottenham, contributing 13 goals and 21 assists over four seasons.
Tottenham midfielder Luka Modric's move to Real Madrid is certain to be completed shortly, according to Dinamo Zagreb director of football Zoran Mamic.
Modric joined Spurs from the Croatian club for 20.9 million euros in 2008 and the north London side is now reportedly demanding over double that for the diminutive playmaker.
Negotiations over his move to the Spanish giants have been ongoing through the summer, but Mamic insists they will conclude in time to meet the transfer deadline.
“You read many things in the media but from the information I have, Luka will move to Real Madrid for sure,” Mamic told 24sata.
"I've heard it's almost done, so I don't have any doubts Luka will play for Real Madrid next season,” Mamic continued.
"It is just a question of when the official announcement will be."
Modric has made 127 league appearances for Tottenham, contributing 13 goals and 21 assists over four seasons.
AC Milan's Pato to miss start of Serie A season due to fresh injury
AC Milan attacker Alexandre Pato has been dealt a cruel blow in his quest to regain full fitness as he has suffered another injury mere days before the restart of the Italian championship.
The Brazilian picked up a knock on his left abductor during a training session on Wednesday, which coincided with the arrival of Giampaolo Pazzini in a swap deal involving Antonio Cassano.
The 22-year-old will undergo a scan in the coming days to determined the extent of the damage.
"AC Milan announces that during a game held in today's workout, Alexandre Pato has reported a problem with his left adductor," the team said in a statement. "In the coming days further medical examinations will be made to determine the extent of the damage."
Pato was restricted to just 11 Serie A appearances last season, due to persistent injury problems.
AC Milan attacker Alexandre Pato has been dealt a cruel blow in his quest to regain full fitness as he has suffered another injury mere days before the restart of the Italian championship.
The Brazilian picked up a knock on his left abductor during a training session on Wednesday, which coincided with the arrival of Giampaolo Pazzini in a swap deal involving Antonio Cassano.
The 22-year-old will undergo a scan in the coming days to determined the extent of the damage.
"AC Milan announces that during a game held in today's workout, Alexandre Pato has reported a problem with his left adductor," the team said in a statement. "In the coming days further medical examinations will be made to determine the extent of the damage."
Pato was restricted to just 11 Serie A appearances last season, due to persistent injury problems.
Oscar: I will have adapted at Chelsea within a month
Chelsea's new Brazilian wonderkid Oscar has declared that he will be ready for first-team action in the Premier League within a month.
The 20-year-old midfielder signed from Internacional for 20 million pounds this summer and impressed during Brazil's Olympic campaign at London 2012. And despite the challenge of adapting to a new country and style of soccer, Oscar has backed himself to earn a starting berth soon enough.
"I'm confident I will adapt soon which will help me to play well and earn my place in the team," he told Radio Estadao ESPN. "It was like that at Internacional and it will be the same at Chelsea. It won't take long, in a month I will have adapted and I will be in the first team."
The Brazilian made his English top-flight debut during the west London side's opening league fixture, coming on as a substitute in a 2-0 victory over Wigan on Sunday.
Having joined Roberto Di Matteo's team along with fellow attacking talents Marko Marin and Eden Hazard, Oscar acknowledged that he faces a tough battle to break through.
"I'm in good form, I'm doing well which can be seen in training. It was a good performance against Wigan even though I only came on in the second half and played the last 30 minutes," he added.
"Of course there is strong competition for places, but I have confidence in my football ability."
Chelsea's new Brazilian wonderkid Oscar has declared that he will be ready for first-team action in the Premier League within a month.
The 20-year-old midfielder signed from Internacional for 20 million pounds this summer and impressed during Brazil's Olympic campaign at London 2012. And despite the challenge of adapting to a new country and style of soccer, Oscar has backed himself to earn a starting berth soon enough.
"I'm confident I will adapt soon which will help me to play well and earn my place in the team," he told Radio Estadao ESPN. "It was like that at Internacional and it will be the same at Chelsea. It won't take long, in a month I will have adapted and I will be in the first team."
The Brazilian made his English top-flight debut during the west London side's opening league fixture, coming on as a substitute in a 2-0 victory over Wigan on Sunday.
Having joined Roberto Di Matteo's team along with fellow attacking talents Marko Marin and Eden Hazard, Oscar acknowledged that he faces a tough battle to break through.
"I'm in good form, I'm doing well which can be seen in training. It was a good performance against Wigan even though I only came on in the second half and played the last 30 minutes," he added.
"Of course there is strong competition for places, but I have confidence in my football ability."
Aguero set to return for Manchester City in Stoke City clash
Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero is set to return to first-team action in time for his side's clash with Stoke City on Sept. 15, the club has confirmed.
The Argentine went down clutching his knee after just 13 minutes of the Premier League champions' clash with Southampton on Sunday, which they went on to win 3-2, and was subsequently stretchered from the pitch.
However, the latest prognosis appears to confirm that the forward's injury is not as serious as first feared and will keep him out of action for just a month.
Aguero joined City in the summer of 2011 and went on to enjoy an impressive debut season with the Manchester side, scoring 23 Premier League goals in 34 games.
His most vital contribution came in the dying seconds of his side's last game of the campaign against QPR, as his goal secured three points and subsequently the title by virtue of goal difference.
Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero is set to return to first-team action in time for his side's clash with Stoke City on Sept. 15, the club has confirmed.
The Argentine went down clutching his knee after just 13 minutes of the Premier League champions' clash with Southampton on Sunday, which they went on to win 3-2, and was subsequently stretchered from the pitch.
However, the latest prognosis appears to confirm that the forward's injury is not as serious as first feared and will keep him out of action for just a month.
Aguero joined City in the summer of 2011 and went on to enjoy an impressive debut season with the Manchester side, scoring 23 Premier League goals in 34 games.
His most vital contribution came in the dying seconds of his side's last game of the campaign against QPR, as his goal secured three points and subsequently the title by virtue of goal difference.
Chelsea 4-2 Reading: Hazard bags three assists as Blues come from behind to claim victory
Niyamaii...! hazard hondata play keranwa... dan game play eka alla gena thiyanna.. Torres in good form .. digatama mehem play karamu... up Chelsea ..
Oscar: I will have adapted at Chelsea within a month
aniwa....,,,, ehema thama , aluth team ekakata adopt wenna tiaka kalayak yanwa... good luck..!
Chelsea agree Moses fee
Chelsea agree Moses fee
Wigan Athletic have announced that they have accepted a bid from Chelsea for Victor Moses.
Chelsea have pursued Nigeria international Moses, 21, throughout the summer but the two clubs had been unable to agree a fee.On Thursday night, though, Wigan confirmed that they have finally come to an agreement over his sale.
A Wigan statement read: "The club can confirm that after four unsuccessful bids from Chelsea for Victor Moses, a fifth bid has today finally met the valuation and terms set by Wigan Athletic and been accepted. The player has been given permission to speak with Chelsea."
Moses, who joined Wigan from Crystal Palace in the January 2010 transfer window, has entered the final year of his contract with the Latics but his club had been adamant that they would not sell at a price that did not suit them.
Earlier on Thursday, manager Roberto Martinez had warned that if Chelsea did not pay Wigan's asking price, believed to be in the region of £9 million, Moses would remain at the DW Stadium.
"You will get all sorts of speculation and talk, but the reality is, every player has a valuation," Martinez had said. "If a club matches that valuation then maybe you have to sit down with the player and there is a decision to be made.
"Here, for all the talk and speculation, we have never had an offer which matches what the club wants - so at that point, all the rest is cheap talk. Victor is an incredible young man and I think the maturity he showed on Sunday is not normal in a 21-year-old. It has been a real joy to see him grow over the last few seasons.
"We made a massive investment in him as a young man and we are very proud of him. If there is nothing to consider, it is not an issue.''
Chelsea agree Moses fee
Wigan Athletic have announced that they have accepted a bid from Chelsea for Victor Moses.
Chelsea have pursued Nigeria international Moses, 21, throughout the summer but the two clubs had been unable to agree a fee.On Thursday night, though, Wigan confirmed that they have finally come to an agreement over his sale.
A Wigan statement read: "The club can confirm that after four unsuccessful bids from Chelsea for Victor Moses, a fifth bid has today finally met the valuation and terms set by Wigan Athletic and been accepted. The player has been given permission to speak with Chelsea."
Moses, who joined Wigan from Crystal Palace in the January 2010 transfer window, has entered the final year of his contract with the Latics but his club had been adamant that they would not sell at a price that did not suit them.
Earlier on Thursday, manager Roberto Martinez had warned that if Chelsea did not pay Wigan's asking price, believed to be in the region of £9 million, Moses would remain at the DW Stadium.
"You will get all sorts of speculation and talk, but the reality is, every player has a valuation," Martinez had said. "If a club matches that valuation then maybe you have to sit down with the player and there is a decision to be made.
"Here, for all the talk and speculation, we have never had an offer which matches what the club wants - so at that point, all the rest is cheap talk. Victor is an incredible young man and I think the maturity he showed on Sunday is not normal in a 21-year-old. It has been a real joy to see him grow over the last few seasons.
"We made a massive investment in him as a young man and we are very proud of him. If there is nothing to consider, it is not an issue.''
Barcelona 3-2 Real Madrid: Xavi clinches narrow first-leg triumph
Barcelona drew first blood against Real Madrid in the battle for Spanish supremacy this season, narrowly defeating its great rival 3-2 in the first leg of their Supercopa clash at Camp Nou on Thursday.
A cagey first half saw the home side dominate the ball, but struggle to find a way through a resilient rearguard effort from Jose Mourinho's men.
But the match changed completely in the second-half, as Cristiano Ronaldo gave the visitors a shock lead in the 55th minute with a header from a corner.
Barca would hit back instantly through Pedro, before a Lionel Messi penalty and a beautifully worked goal from Xavi put the club in the driving seat.
However, a moment of madness from Victor Valdes gifted Angel Di Maria a goal with five minutes to go, leaving matters finely poised for the second leg in six days at Santiago Bernabeu.
Tito Vilanova dropped Christian Tello to the bench for Alexis Sanchez, despite the former’s impressive performance in the 5-1 win over Real Sociedad last weekend, but new signing Alex Song did not make the match day squad in time.Mourinho, meanwhile, drafted in Raul Albiol in the center of defense for the injured Pepe, while Karim Benzema started as the lone striker ahead of Gonzalo Higuain.
Madrid started brightly, but was not able to sustain it for long as Barca began to assert its dominance in the middle of the park, with Andres Iniesta in particular looking lively.
Xabi Alonso picked up a yellow card 12 minutes in after a crunching tackle on Sergio Busquets, putting him on thin ice for what was shaping up to be a backs to the wall game for the visitors.Messi should have found the target in the 19th minute after latching on to Dani Alves’ cutback just inside the box, but his effort flew the wrong side of the post.
The Argentine would miss an even better chance 10 minutes later, poking wide from a good position after dancing around two defenders in the area.But despite being starved of the ball, Madrid proved a stubborn beast to overcome at the back, as every Barca attack was met by a throng of white shirts in defense.
The match seemed to be settling into a war of attrition, though Pedro almost livened things up on the half-hour mark with a swerving shot that forced Casillas to save at full stretch.
The home fans were up in arms in the 38th minute though, after a theatrical tumble from Sanchez from a challenge by Fabio Coentrao in the box went unacknowledged by the referee.
It was a hopeful shout at best, and the game began to get scrappy as the first half ended. First, Arbeloa was shown yellow for flattening Busquets, before Javier Mascherano joined him in the book after chopping down Coentrao.
Busquets was not having an easy time in the middle of the park, and was felled again by Albiol shortly after the restart, for which the Madrid defender also saw yellow.
The Barcelona midfielder would then make a fatal error in the 55th minute, as he lost sight of Ronaldo defending a corner, allowing the Portuguese to not the visitors into a surprise lead.
Madrid’s joy lasted only seconds though, as straight from kickoff, Barca drew level.
Mascherano’s searching ball from his own half picked out Pedro on the left, who accelerated away from Coentrao to slot the hosts back on terms, despite calls from the visitors for offside.
The shackles were finally off, as Barca looked to press ahead. Alves was picked out by Messi on the overlap, only for Casillas to tip his low shot around the post.
Then, with 68 minutes gone, a clumsy tackle by Sergio Ramos brought down Iniesta in the area, giving referee Carlos Gomez no choice but to point to the spot. Messi stepped up to send Casillas the wrong way and put Barcelona back in front.
Xavi appeared to put matters beyond any doubt 10 minutes later after slotting home from a superb setup from Iniesta, who ghosted pass multiple challenges before putting the chance on a plate for his midfield colleague.However, in the 85th minute, a howler from Valdes dragged Madrid back into the game and the tie.
The Barcelona keeper appeared to be under little pressure when collecting a backpass, but saw the ball stick under his feet, allowing Di Maria enough time to steal in and poke into the back of the net, giving the visitors a lifeline for the second-leg.
Barcelona drew first blood against Real Madrid in the battle for Spanish supremacy this season, narrowly defeating its great rival 3-2 in the first leg of their Supercopa clash at Camp Nou on Thursday.
A cagey first half saw the home side dominate the ball, but struggle to find a way through a resilient rearguard effort from Jose Mourinho's men.
But the match changed completely in the second-half, as Cristiano Ronaldo gave the visitors a shock lead in the 55th minute with a header from a corner.
Barca would hit back instantly through Pedro, before a Lionel Messi penalty and a beautifully worked goal from Xavi put the club in the driving seat.
However, a moment of madness from Victor Valdes gifted Angel Di Maria a goal with five minutes to go, leaving matters finely poised for the second leg in six days at Santiago Bernabeu.
Tito Vilanova dropped Christian Tello to the bench for Alexis Sanchez, despite the former’s impressive performance in the 5-1 win over Real Sociedad last weekend, but new signing Alex Song did not make the match day squad in time.Mourinho, meanwhile, drafted in Raul Albiol in the center of defense for the injured Pepe, while Karim Benzema started as the lone striker ahead of Gonzalo Higuain.
Madrid started brightly, but was not able to sustain it for long as Barca began to assert its dominance in the middle of the park, with Andres Iniesta in particular looking lively.
Xabi Alonso picked up a yellow card 12 minutes in after a crunching tackle on Sergio Busquets, putting him on thin ice for what was shaping up to be a backs to the wall game for the visitors.Messi should have found the target in the 19th minute after latching on to Dani Alves’ cutback just inside the box, but his effort flew the wrong side of the post.
The Argentine would miss an even better chance 10 minutes later, poking wide from a good position after dancing around two defenders in the area.But despite being starved of the ball, Madrid proved a stubborn beast to overcome at the back, as every Barca attack was met by a throng of white shirts in defense.
The match seemed to be settling into a war of attrition, though Pedro almost livened things up on the half-hour mark with a swerving shot that forced Casillas to save at full stretch.
The home fans were up in arms in the 38th minute though, after a theatrical tumble from Sanchez from a challenge by Fabio Coentrao in the box went unacknowledged by the referee.
It was a hopeful shout at best, and the game began to get scrappy as the first half ended. First, Arbeloa was shown yellow for flattening Busquets, before Javier Mascherano joined him in the book after chopping down Coentrao.
Busquets was not having an easy time in the middle of the park, and was felled again by Albiol shortly after the restart, for which the Madrid defender also saw yellow.
The Barcelona midfielder would then make a fatal error in the 55th minute, as he lost sight of Ronaldo defending a corner, allowing the Portuguese to not the visitors into a surprise lead.
Madrid’s joy lasted only seconds though, as straight from kickoff, Barca drew level.
Mascherano’s searching ball from his own half picked out Pedro on the left, who accelerated away from Coentrao to slot the hosts back on terms, despite calls from the visitors for offside.
The shackles were finally off, as Barca looked to press ahead. Alves was picked out by Messi on the overlap, only for Casillas to tip his low shot around the post.
Then, with 68 minutes gone, a clumsy tackle by Sergio Ramos brought down Iniesta in the area, giving referee Carlos Gomez no choice but to point to the spot. Messi stepped up to send Casillas the wrong way and put Barcelona back in front.
Xavi appeared to put matters beyond any doubt 10 minutes later after slotting home from a superb setup from Iniesta, who ghosted pass multiple challenges before putting the chance on a plate for his midfield colleague.However, in the 85th minute, a howler from Valdes dragged Madrid back into the game and the tie.
The Barcelona keeper appeared to be under little pressure when collecting a backpass, but saw the ball stick under his feet, allowing Di Maria enough time to steal in and poke into the back of the net, giving the visitors a lifeline for the second-leg.
Hearts 0-1 Liverpool: Webster own goal puts Reds in commanding position ahead of second leg
Liverpool bounced back from its opening day Premier League defeat with a narrow victory against Hearts in their Europa League playoff on Thursday evening.
The hosts went toe-to-toe with Brendan Rodgers' side in a very bright first half in front of a buzzing Tynecastle crowd. Arvydas Novikovas went closest for the Scottish outfit as it put real pressure on the visitors, but some good work from Raheem Sterling saw Fabio Borini waste the best chance of the 45 when he hit the post despite being clear through on goal.
The second half saw far less action than the first, with neither defense allowing the opposition to create clear chances. At times the Reds looked like they were on the verge of shifting up the gears. They failed to cause the hosts any major problems, but were granted a winner when Andy Webster put the ball in his own net.
John McGlynn started with John Sutton as a lone forward, with David Templeton supporting from midfield. Meanwhile, Arvydas Novikovas and Callum Paterson lined up on either flank.
Liverpool travelled to Tynecastle without the likes of Steven Gerrard, Luis Suarez, Martin Skrtel and Glen Johnson, with Rodgers handing starts to youngsters Jack Robinson, Jonjo Shelvey, Jay Spearing and 17-year-old Sterling.
There was no place for Andy Carroll in the first XI or the bench, but Charlie Adam, Jordan Henderson and Borini were given chances to impress, with Pepe Reina, Martin Kelly, Daniel Agger and Jamie Carragher also selected.
The Reds looked to pass the ball out from the back early on in the typical Rodgers style, but were sent a warning sign when a weak Carragher back pass nearly gifted the hosts a dream start, with Reina forced to rush out of his area to clear.
Spurred on by the immense atmosphere created from the home supporters in Edinburgh, Novikovas fired a bullet towards the Reds' goal from range after some brilliant work by Mehdi Taouil, which the Spanish keeper was forced to push wide.
Sutton was the next Hearts man to have shot at the visitors' goal, as the ten minute mark passed, he turned swiftly to work a yard of space and get free of Carragher but his strike just swerved away from goal. Liverpool were firmly on the back foot, however.
Hearts' ambition and positivity was highlighted by a corner after 16 minutes, Novikovas delivered the set-piece to the edge of the area where Darren Barr was waiting to attempt a first-time volley - the shot didn't reach the goal but their confidence was evident. Then, David Templeton unleashed an effort with his left after a driving run down the flank, the ball travelling at pace across goal but off target.
Sterling was given his first real chance to show what he can do after 20 minutes, Spearing found the winger with a terrific ball out to the right, and he raced free on the flank before cutting in and riffling a shot at goal but saw his strike blocked. The youngster then caused more panic as he looked to run in behind the hosts' defense, with Webster almost finding his own net as he was forced into putting the ball behind.
Borini then had a good chance to give Liverpool the lead with ten minutes left in the half, after a spell where neither side could find the right final ball. The former Roma loanee shipped the ball out wide to Henderson before carrying on his run. The midfielder then played a lovely pass over the top towards the Italian who just failed to make contact with his attempted volley as the ball came over his shoulder.
Five minutes later Hearts once again put their foot on the gas. Templeton smashed a volley just over from the edge of the area, before the home side had a penalty appeal, correctly, turned down after they claimed handball against Carragher.
Down the other end, however, Liverpool should have taken the lead just before the break. Sterling's quick thinking led him to intercept at attempted cross-field ball by Taouil. Bringing it down with instant control, the 17-year-old galloped clear before laying the ball across to Borini, who slotted the ball past the outrushing keeper but against the post.
The tempo dropped after halftime with both sides struggling to find any rhythm. It was Sterling who was first to threaten. After playing a one-two with Adam the winger dashed into the Hearts' box before being brought down and appealing for a penalty, but nothing was given. Moments later, the Scottish side's own 17-year-old Paterson lashed a volley wide at the other end.
As the half went on both sides failed to create any major talking points. The Reds made their mark on possession and looked to slightly dominate with the ball, but could find no way through the Hearts' back line.
Liverpool did eventually get the breakthrough with just over ten minutes remaining. Kelly got forward well from his right back position and fired in a dangerous low cross which, under pressure from Borini, Webster put into his own goal.
Hearts weren't done yet though. Firstly Driver's shot on the turn looked dangerous but ended up with a routine save for Reina, and then Paterson forced the Spaniard into a very good low save as his right-footed strike looked destined for the far corner, the keeper just tipping it wide to ensure his side claimed victory.
Liverpool bounced back from its opening day Premier League defeat with a narrow victory against Hearts in their Europa League playoff on Thursday evening.
The hosts went toe-to-toe with Brendan Rodgers' side in a very bright first half in front of a buzzing Tynecastle crowd. Arvydas Novikovas went closest for the Scottish outfit as it put real pressure on the visitors, but some good work from Raheem Sterling saw Fabio Borini waste the best chance of the 45 when he hit the post despite being clear through on goal.
The second half saw far less action than the first, with neither defense allowing the opposition to create clear chances. At times the Reds looked like they were on the verge of shifting up the gears. They failed to cause the hosts any major problems, but were granted a winner when Andy Webster put the ball in his own net.
John McGlynn started with John Sutton as a lone forward, with David Templeton supporting from midfield. Meanwhile, Arvydas Novikovas and Callum Paterson lined up on either flank.
Liverpool travelled to Tynecastle without the likes of Steven Gerrard, Luis Suarez, Martin Skrtel and Glen Johnson, with Rodgers handing starts to youngsters Jack Robinson, Jonjo Shelvey, Jay Spearing and 17-year-old Sterling.
There was no place for Andy Carroll in the first XI or the bench, but Charlie Adam, Jordan Henderson and Borini were given chances to impress, with Pepe Reina, Martin Kelly, Daniel Agger and Jamie Carragher also selected.
The Reds looked to pass the ball out from the back early on in the typical Rodgers style, but were sent a warning sign when a weak Carragher back pass nearly gifted the hosts a dream start, with Reina forced to rush out of his area to clear.
Spurred on by the immense atmosphere created from the home supporters in Edinburgh, Novikovas fired a bullet towards the Reds' goal from range after some brilliant work by Mehdi Taouil, which the Spanish keeper was forced to push wide.
Sutton was the next Hearts man to have shot at the visitors' goal, as the ten minute mark passed, he turned swiftly to work a yard of space and get free of Carragher but his strike just swerved away from goal. Liverpool were firmly on the back foot, however.
Hearts' ambition and positivity was highlighted by a corner after 16 minutes, Novikovas delivered the set-piece to the edge of the area where Darren Barr was waiting to attempt a first-time volley - the shot didn't reach the goal but their confidence was evident. Then, David Templeton unleashed an effort with his left after a driving run down the flank, the ball travelling at pace across goal but off target.
Sterling was given his first real chance to show what he can do after 20 minutes, Spearing found the winger with a terrific ball out to the right, and he raced free on the flank before cutting in and riffling a shot at goal but saw his strike blocked. The youngster then caused more panic as he looked to run in behind the hosts' defense, with Webster almost finding his own net as he was forced into putting the ball behind.
Borini then had a good chance to give Liverpool the lead with ten minutes left in the half, after a spell where neither side could find the right final ball. The former Roma loanee shipped the ball out wide to Henderson before carrying on his run. The midfielder then played a lovely pass over the top towards the Italian who just failed to make contact with his attempted volley as the ball came over his shoulder.
Five minutes later Hearts once again put their foot on the gas. Templeton smashed a volley just over from the edge of the area, before the home side had a penalty appeal, correctly, turned down after they claimed handball against Carragher.
Down the other end, however, Liverpool should have taken the lead just before the break. Sterling's quick thinking led him to intercept at attempted cross-field ball by Taouil. Bringing it down with instant control, the 17-year-old galloped clear before laying the ball across to Borini, who slotted the ball past the outrushing keeper but against the post.
The tempo dropped after halftime with both sides struggling to find any rhythm. It was Sterling who was first to threaten. After playing a one-two with Adam the winger dashed into the Hearts' box before being brought down and appealing for a penalty, but nothing was given. Moments later, the Scottish side's own 17-year-old Paterson lashed a volley wide at the other end.
As the half went on both sides failed to create any major talking points. The Reds made their mark on possession and looked to slightly dominate with the ball, but could find no way through the Hearts' back line.
Liverpool did eventually get the breakthrough with just over ten minutes remaining. Kelly got forward well from his right back position and fired in a dangerous low cross which, under pressure from Borini, Webster put into his own goal.
Hearts weren't done yet though. Firstly Driver's shot on the turn looked dangerous but ended up with a routine save for Reina, and then Paterson forced the Spaniard into a very good low save as his right-footed strike looked destined for the far corner, the keeper just tipping it wide to ensure his side claimed victory.
Marcelo: Supercopa is far from over
Marcelo is confident that Real Madrid can still win the Supercopa when Barcelona visit the Santiago Bernabeu for the second leg.
Speaking to TVE after his side's 3-2 Clasico defeat at Camp Nou, the Brazilian left back was pleased with Los Blancos' performance and believes his side have the advantage going into the return leg.
"We ran all the time. We played the ball on the ground. We conceded three goals but we can count on the support of the fans to win at the Bernabeu.
"It's completely open, but we have to work and concentrate on the match because it will be very hard."
The second leg of the Supercopa kicks off at 4:30 p.m. ET on Wednesday.
Marcelo is confident that Real Madrid can still win the Supercopa when Barcelona visit the Santiago Bernabeu for the second leg.
Speaking to TVE after his side's 3-2 Clasico defeat at Camp Nou, the Brazilian left back was pleased with Los Blancos' performance and believes his side have the advantage going into the return leg.
"We ran all the time. We played the ball on the ground. We conceded three goals but we can count on the support of the fans to win at the Bernabeu.
"It's completely open, but we have to work and concentrate on the match because it will be very hard."
The second leg of the Supercopa kicks off at 4:30 p.m. ET on Wednesday.
Linesman made a 'big mistake', insists Mourinho
Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho believes that the linesman made a “big mistake” by allowing Pedro’s goal to stand during his side’s 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the first leg of their Supercopa tie.
The Spain forward scored Barca’s equaliser on 56 minutes after sprinting ahead of Fabio Coentrao, but replays suggested that he may have strayed fractionally offside in the buildup.
“The first goal for Barcelona was a big mistake by the linesman, and that is it,” declared Mourinho to reporters after the match.The Portuguese trainer also expressed his thoughts on his team’s performance, while reserving words of praise for winger Jose Callejon.
“I did not like our first half, but in the second half, it was a different game. Callejon played well. He prepared the game for Di Maria. This was an important game and I liked his work,”
The second leg of the Supercopa is set to be played at Santago Bernabeu in six days’ time, but both sides will be in action in La Liga over the weekend, with Madrid facing Getafe and Barcelona taking on Osasuna.
Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho believes that the linesman made a “big mistake” by allowing Pedro’s goal to stand during his side’s 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the first leg of their Supercopa tie.
The Spain forward scored Barca’s equaliser on 56 minutes after sprinting ahead of Fabio Coentrao, but replays suggested that he may have strayed fractionally offside in the buildup.
“The first goal for Barcelona was a big mistake by the linesman, and that is it,” declared Mourinho to reporters after the match.The Portuguese trainer also expressed his thoughts on his team’s performance, while reserving words of praise for winger Jose Callejon.
“I did not like our first half, but in the second half, it was a different game. Callejon played well. He prepared the game for Di Maria. This was an important game and I liked his work,”
The second leg of the Supercopa is set to be played at Santago Bernabeu in six days’ time, but both sides will be in action in La Liga over the weekend, with Madrid facing Getafe and Barcelona taking on Osasuna.
Barcelona 3-2 Real Madrid: Xavi clinches narrow first-leg triumph
Barcelona drew first blood against Real Madrid in the battle for Spanish supremacy this season, narrowly defeating its great rival 3-2 in the first leg of their Supercopa clash at Camp Nou on Thursday.
A cagey first half saw the home side dominate the ball, but struggle to find a way through a resilient rearguard effort from Jose Mourinho's men.
But the match changed completely in the second-half, as Cristiano Ronaldo gave the visitors a shock lead in the 55th minute with a header from a corner.
Barca would hit back instantly through Pedro, before a Lionel Messi penalty and a beautifully worked goal from Xavi put the club in the driving seat.
However, a moment of madness from Victor Valdes gifted Angel Di Maria a goal with five minutes to go, leaving matters finely poised for the second leg in six days at Santiago Bernabeu.
Tito Vilanova dropped Christian Tello to the bench for Alexis Sanchez, despite the former’s impressive performance in the 5-1 win over Real Sociedad last weekend, but new signing Alex Song did not make the match day squad in time.Mourinho, meanwhile, drafted in Raul Albiol in the center of defense for the injured Pepe, while Karim Benzema started as the lone striker ahead of Gonzalo Higuain.
Madrid started brightly, but was not able to sustain it for long as Barca began to assert its dominance in the middle of the park, with Andres Iniesta in particular looking lively.
Xabi Alonso picked up a yellow card 12 minutes in after a crunching tackle on Sergio Busquets, putting him on thin ice for what was shaping up to be a backs to the wall game for the visitors.Messi should have found the target in the 19th minute after latching on to Dani Alves’ cutback just inside the box, but his effort flew the wrong side of the post.
The Argentine would miss an even better chance 10 minutes later, poking wide from a good position after dancing around two defenders in the area.But despite being starved of the ball, Madrid proved a stubborn beast to overcome at the back, as every Barca attack was met by a throng of white shirts in defense.
The match seemed to be settling into a war of attrition, though Pedro almost livened things up on the half-hour mark with a swerving shot that forced Casillas to save at full stretch.
The home fans were up in arms in the 38th minute though, after a theatrical tumble from Sanchez from a challenge by Fabio Coentrao in the box went unacknowledged by the referee.
It was a hopeful shout at best, and the game began to get scrappy as the first half ended. First, Arbeloa was shown yellow for flattening Busquets, before Javier Mascherano joined him in the book after chopping down Coentrao.
Busquets was not having an easy time in the middle of the park, and was felled again by Albiol shortly after the restart, for which the Madrid defender also saw yellow.
The Barcelona midfielder would then make a fatal error in the 55th minute, as he lost sight of Ronaldo defending a corner, allowing the Portuguese to not the visitors into a surprise lead.
Madrid’s joy lasted only seconds though, as straight from kickoff, Barca drew level.
Mascherano’s searching ball from his own half picked out Pedro on the left, who accelerated away from Coentrao to slot the hosts back on terms, despite calls from the visitors for offside.
The shackles were finally off, as Barca looked to press ahead. Alves was picked out by Messi on the overlap, only for Casillas to tip his low shot around the post.
Then, with 68 minutes gone, a clumsy tackle by Sergio Ramos brought down Iniesta in the area, giving referee Carlos Gomez no choice but to point to the spot. Messi stepped up to send Casillas the wrong way and put Barcelona back in front.
Xavi appeared to put matters beyond any doubt 10 minutes later after slotting home from a superb setup from Iniesta, who ghosted pass multiple challenges before putting the chance on a plate for his midfield colleague.However, in the 85th minute, a howler from Valdes dragged Madrid back into the game and the tie.
The Barcelona keeper appeared to be under little pressure when collecting a backpass, but saw the ball stick under his feet, allowing Di Maria enough time to steal in and poke into the back of the net, giving the visitors a lifeline for the second-leg.
real madrid elatama play kara defend walata pepe nathi ekai penalty ekai thamai case eka une , but 2nd leg eka aniva dinna puluwan
'I want to win it all' - Song targets trophy haul with Barcelona
New Barcelona signing Alexandre Song has voiced his desire to 'win it all' in the blaugrana jersey, having recently joined on a five-year contract from Arsenal.
Speaking to the club's official website, he expressed his delight in becoming part of Tito Vilanova's squad, praising the side's 'tiki-taka' style of play and claiming that it was too good an opportunity to turn down.
"I feel great, I’m really content," he said. "These past couple of days have been fantastic for me, I feel like I’m a little kid. The chance to come to Barca only comes around once in a lifetime. I love the way Barca play and when a club like this asks you to come play for them, you can’t say no.”
The Cameroon international, who can play at center back or as a holding midfielder, spoke of his determination to make Vilanova's debut season a successful one.
“I want to win it all. Barcelona are a winning team, they always win the titles they set out to win. I haven’t won anything and it’s an excellent opportunity for me, so I hope we keep on winning. My hope is that at the end of the season we are able to lift as many titles as we possibly can.”
Adorning the No. 25 shirt, Song also spoke of his close friendship with former Arsenal team-mate Cesc Fabregas, who has helped him to settle in at Camp Nou.
"Cesc is a great person. Actually, I’m sleeping at his house and I think he’ll help me adjust to the club quickly. He’ll give me advice and he’ll show me the right path I need to take. It’s always more difficult when you don’t know anyone, but I know him and I’m sure he’ll make this transition easier. Cesc will tell me how I should act.”
Song is confident that he can handle the transition from English to Spanish football and feels that his physicality could prove to be a major asset.
"I’m pretty tough in one-on-one situations, I always try to win the ball. I think that English football is a bit different to Spanish football. It’s more physical in England, but it’s different here and I’ll have to adapt. I don’t think my style of play will change that much, but I will have to improve.”
Song faces tough competition from the likes of Sergio Busquets and Javier Mascherano, but he is determined that he can prove his worth for the Catalan club and feature for long periods of the season.
“There are a lot of games every season when you play for Barca, and I said that I would give it my all because if the manager believes in me he’ll give me chances to play. The best players in the world play for Barca, I’m very proud to be here and I hope to play as many games as possible.”
Song is expected to make his Barcelona debut away at Osasuna on Sunday.
New Barcelona signing Alexandre Song has voiced his desire to 'win it all' in the blaugrana jersey, having recently joined on a five-year contract from Arsenal.
Speaking to the club's official website, he expressed his delight in becoming part of Tito Vilanova's squad, praising the side's 'tiki-taka' style of play and claiming that it was too good an opportunity to turn down.
"I feel great, I’m really content," he said. "These past couple of days have been fantastic for me, I feel like I’m a little kid. The chance to come to Barca only comes around once in a lifetime. I love the way Barca play and when a club like this asks you to come play for them, you can’t say no.”
The Cameroon international, who can play at center back or as a holding midfielder, spoke of his determination to make Vilanova's debut season a successful one.
“I want to win it all. Barcelona are a winning team, they always win the titles they set out to win. I haven’t won anything and it’s an excellent opportunity for me, so I hope we keep on winning. My hope is that at the end of the season we are able to lift as many titles as we possibly can.”
Adorning the No. 25 shirt, Song also spoke of his close friendship with former Arsenal team-mate Cesc Fabregas, who has helped him to settle in at Camp Nou.
"Cesc is a great person. Actually, I’m sleeping at his house and I think he’ll help me adjust to the club quickly. He’ll give me advice and he’ll show me the right path I need to take. It’s always more difficult when you don’t know anyone, but I know him and I’m sure he’ll make this transition easier. Cesc will tell me how I should act.”
Song is confident that he can handle the transition from English to Spanish football and feels that his physicality could prove to be a major asset.
"I’m pretty tough in one-on-one situations, I always try to win the ball. I think that English football is a bit different to Spanish football. It’s more physical in England, but it’s different here and I’ll have to adapt. I don’t think my style of play will change that much, but I will have to improve.”
Song faces tough competition from the likes of Sergio Busquets and Javier Mascherano, but he is determined that he can prove his worth for the Catalan club and feature for long periods of the season.
“There are a lot of games every season when you play for Barca, and I said that I would give it my all because if the manager believes in me he’ll give me chances to play. The best players in the world play for Barca, I’m very proud to be here and I hope to play as many games as possible.”
Song is expected to make his Barcelona debut away at Osasuna on Sunday.
Villas-Boas: Tottenham will not struggle without Dawson
Tottenham boss Andre Villas-Boas has insisted that the Premier League side has enough defensive cover to allow Michael Dawson to move to QPR for a reported 9 million pounds.
The 28-year-old was left out of the Spurs squad for the opening day defeat to Newcastle United and is now set to move across the capital.
The England international has yet to agree personal terms and complete a medical with the west Londoners, but Villas-Boas is set to move him on after falling down the pecking order at White Hart Lane.
"His human qualities are highly appreciated by us and the football club,” Villas-Boas told reporters. "His skills as a footballer are second to none so we appreciate them as well.”
Dawson signed for the north London club from Nottingham Forest in 2005 and spent the majority of last season on the sidelines through injury.
QPR manager Mark Hughes is desperate to bolster his defensive options following a dismal 5-0 thumping against Swansea City and the chase to sign Dawson sees the London-based club beat Stoke City to his signature.
Despite regaining full fitness he has fallen behind Younes Kaboul, William Gallas, Jan Vertonghen and Steven Caulker in the pecking order.
"If we end up with a scenario with five central defenders there is more competition and there might be less opportunities,” he continued. "That's why we are willing to consider different options and we have allowed the player to speak to QPR."
Tottenham boss Andre Villas-Boas has insisted that the Premier League side has enough defensive cover to allow Michael Dawson to move to QPR for a reported 9 million pounds.
The 28-year-old was left out of the Spurs squad for the opening day defeat to Newcastle United and is now set to move across the capital.
The England international has yet to agree personal terms and complete a medical with the west Londoners, but Villas-Boas is set to move him on after falling down the pecking order at White Hart Lane.
"His human qualities are highly appreciated by us and the football club,” Villas-Boas told reporters. "His skills as a footballer are second to none so we appreciate them as well.”
Dawson signed for the north London club from Nottingham Forest in 2005 and spent the majority of last season on the sidelines through injury.
QPR manager Mark Hughes is desperate to bolster his defensive options following a dismal 5-0 thumping against Swansea City and the chase to sign Dawson sees the London-based club beat Stoke City to his signature.
Despite regaining full fitness he has fallen behind Younes Kaboul, William Gallas, Jan Vertonghen and Steven Caulker in the pecking order.
"If we end up with a scenario with five central defenders there is more competition and there might be less opportunities,” he continued. "That's why we are willing to consider different options and we have allowed the player to speak to QPR."
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