Latest ads
-
Power Lifting Lever Belt- SkullVamp
- Updated:
-
port.lk Domain for sale
- Lankan-Tech
- Updated:
-
Colombo Kaduwela - Two Storey House for Sale- dilrasan
- Updated:
-
Wechat qr verification
- Pawan2005
- Updated:
-
🚀 GOOGLE AI PRO 18 MONTHS ACTIVATION 🚀- sayuru bandara
- Updated:
..::Football II::..
- Thread starter Wolverine GTR
- Start date
- Status
Manchester United sign Uruguay U20 defender Guillermo Varela
Manchester United have confirmed the signing of young defender Guillermo Varela from Uruguayan club Atletico Penarol.
The two clubs agreed an undisclosed fee for 20-year-old, who spent the final few weeks of last season on trial with the Premier League champions.Varela will join up with the United squad after featuring for Uruguay in the forthcoming FIFA U20 World Championship in Turkey.
He becomes the first signing for United since David Moyes replaced Sir Alex Ferguson as manager at Old Trafford.
who's next?
United States 2-1 Jamaica: Unlikely hero Brad Evans rescues a win
KINGSTON, Jamaica -- If Brad Evans hasn't locked down a place on the United States roster yet, he certainly became a fan favorite tonight.
Evans scored a stoppage time game-winner for the U.S. off of a corner to give the Yanks a tightly contested 2-1 away victory over Jamaica. Jozy Altidore also showed that his scoring drought is behind him as he scored the game's opening goal in the first half.
Despite a sizable gap in rankings between the two sides, the U.S. faced a difficult task up against a Jamaican side desperate to turn around its poor start to the hexagonal.
After seeing plenty of positives in the U.S.'s 4-3 win against Germany on Sunday, Jurgen Klinsmann decided to use the same starters from that match - the first time that he has ever repeated lineups in his two-year tenure.
The U.S. seized momentum early as it opened the game with three shots in five minutes, including a strike off the post by Michael Bradley.
The game's opening goal came in the 30th minute. Graham Zusi beat his defender and lobbed a pinpoint cross to Altidore, who was charging toward goal in the six-yard box. The striker headed the ball past Donovan Ricketts to give the Stars and Stripes the opening goal.
The moment appeared to spark Jamaica, as it aggressively attacked U.S.fullbacks DaMarcus Beasley and Evans - both natural midfielders converted to defensive roles on the U.S. roster. Klinsmann explained his decision to move Fabian Johnson, a left back, to the attack and leave Beasley in the back.
"I think Fabian can be a notch better and he knows that," Klinsmann said. "He's kind of holding back but I think he can push himself and take it to another gear. When he goes to the box, he can actually go in there and score or get a penalty because he has speed and technique.
"I think he just needs to catch up now and get that understanding with Clint and Jozy."
As for Beasley's struggles in the back, Klinsmann defended the veteran saying that a better understanding with Fabian will produce better results.
"He [Beasley] had one of the best players against him, he really challenged him with strong runs and battles. That's where you want those two players [Beasley and Johnson] connected to each other," Klinsmann said.
Jamaica had plenty of chances in the first half as it took nine shots but eight of those were off target. Rodolph Austin and Jermaine Johnson were Jamaica's biggest threats in the match.
In the second half the U.S. continued to sit back as Jamaica pushed forward. The team's midfield took a hit when Jermaine Jones suffered a mild concussion in the 59th minute forcing him out of the game. Geoff Cameron was subbed in and paired next to Michael Bradley.
In the 88th minute, it appeared as if Klinsmann's team was back to its old mistakes. Off of a foul, the Reggae Boyz got good position for a free kick and set up substitute Jermaine Beckford for a close-range header to equalize. The crowd of just over 20,000 erupted as the team appeared to at least split points with the favored U.S. side. But the Stars and Stripes would respond almost immediately.
The U.S. pounced on Jamaica's overaggressive play and was able to set up a corner in the 90th minute off of a blocked scoring chance. A short corner was played to Michael Bradley. Bradley in turn found Evans, who turned and fired home the late winner. Evans received a yellow card after he put his jersey over his head but admitted that he couldn't help himself after delivering in a clutch moment.
"Yeah it was insane, it was crazy," Evans said of scoring the game's winner. "Had to take a yellow card there but I was so excited to get the win. It's just a great feeling."
Overall, the U.S. had the advantage offensively as it had a 56-44 edge in possession, but Jamaica had plenty of opportunities to score as it finished the game with 16 shots.
KINGSTON, Jamaica -- If Brad Evans hasn't locked down a place on the United States roster yet, he certainly became a fan favorite tonight.
Evans scored a stoppage time game-winner for the U.S. off of a corner to give the Yanks a tightly contested 2-1 away victory over Jamaica. Jozy Altidore also showed that his scoring drought is behind him as he scored the game's opening goal in the first half.
Despite a sizable gap in rankings between the two sides, the U.S. faced a difficult task up against a Jamaican side desperate to turn around its poor start to the hexagonal.
After seeing plenty of positives in the U.S.'s 4-3 win against Germany on Sunday, Jurgen Klinsmann decided to use the same starters from that match - the first time that he has ever repeated lineups in his two-year tenure.
The U.S. seized momentum early as it opened the game with three shots in five minutes, including a strike off the post by Michael Bradley.
The game's opening goal came in the 30th minute. Graham Zusi beat his defender and lobbed a pinpoint cross to Altidore, who was charging toward goal in the six-yard box. The striker headed the ball past Donovan Ricketts to give the Stars and Stripes the opening goal.
The moment appeared to spark Jamaica, as it aggressively attacked U.S.fullbacks DaMarcus Beasley and Evans - both natural midfielders converted to defensive roles on the U.S. roster. Klinsmann explained his decision to move Fabian Johnson, a left back, to the attack and leave Beasley in the back.
"I think Fabian can be a notch better and he knows that," Klinsmann said. "He's kind of holding back but I think he can push himself and take it to another gear. When he goes to the box, he can actually go in there and score or get a penalty because he has speed and technique.
"I think he just needs to catch up now and get that understanding with Clint and Jozy."
As for Beasley's struggles in the back, Klinsmann defended the veteran saying that a better understanding with Fabian will produce better results.
"He [Beasley] had one of the best players against him, he really challenged him with strong runs and battles. That's where you want those two players [Beasley and Johnson] connected to each other," Klinsmann said.
Jamaica had plenty of chances in the first half as it took nine shots but eight of those were off target. Rodolph Austin and Jermaine Johnson were Jamaica's biggest threats in the match.
In the second half the U.S. continued to sit back as Jamaica pushed forward. The team's midfield took a hit when Jermaine Jones suffered a mild concussion in the 59th minute forcing him out of the game. Geoff Cameron was subbed in and paired next to Michael Bradley.
In the 88th minute, it appeared as if Klinsmann's team was back to its old mistakes. Off of a foul, the Reggae Boyz got good position for a free kick and set up substitute Jermaine Beckford for a close-range header to equalize. The crowd of just over 20,000 erupted as the team appeared to at least split points with the favored U.S. side. But the Stars and Stripes would respond almost immediately.
The U.S. pounced on Jamaica's overaggressive play and was able to set up a corner in the 90th minute off of a blocked scoring chance. A short corner was played to Michael Bradley. Bradley in turn found Evans, who turned and fired home the late winner. Evans received a yellow card after he put his jersey over his head but admitted that he couldn't help himself after delivering in a clutch moment.
"Yeah it was insane, it was crazy," Evans said of scoring the game's winner. "Had to take a yellow card there but I was so excited to get the win. It's just a great feeling."
Overall, the U.S. had the advantage offensively as it had a 56-44 edge in possession, but Jamaica had plenty of opportunities to score as it finished the game with 16 shots.
Croatia 0-1 Scotland: Hosts stunned as Strachan's side notches first Group A win
Scotland picked up the first win of its 2014 World Cup qualification campaign with an unlikely 1-0 victory over Croatia in Zagreb.
The hosts suffered a frustrating first half as they were unable to score despite a string of good chances.
That left them vulnerable to the sucker punch, which was provided by Robert Snodgrass' opportunistic strike.
Igor Stimac's side huffed and puffed after the break but failed to break down a resolute Scotland defense.
Gordan Strachan made six changes to the side which lost its last qualifier to Serbia. Leigh Griffiths was the surprise inclusion, making his first competitive appearance for Scotland ahead of Blackburn striker Jordan Rhodes.
Former Tottenham duo Luka Modric and Vedran Corluka both missed the game for the hosts through suspension; otherwise Stimac had a fully fit squad to select from.
The hosts made a quiet start to the game on a warm night in Zagreb, allowing Scotland to see plenty of the ball early on. The visitors, though, were not able to fashion any real chances despite periods of possession.
Darijo Srna was Croatia's main instigator in the first half, bombing up and down the right flank. The Shakhtar Donetsk captain's crosses looked like the hosts' best bet for a goal during a dour first period, but Mario Mandzukic repeatedly struggled to meet his teammate's deliveries in the box.
They soon paid for their casual start as Scotland stunned the Stadion Maksimir and took an unlikely lead.
Shaun Maloney picked up the ball near the halfway line and ran straight at the heart of the Croatia's defense when Srna's attempt at a tackle inadvertently took the ball into the path of Snodgrass. The Norwich man was alert enough to prod the ball past Stipe Pletikosa with an outstretched leg.
The hosts' best chance of the half came when Grant Hanley played a sloppy ball back to Alan McGregor under pressure from Mandzukic. Following a ricochet, the ball fell to Sammir at the edge of the area but the Brazilian-born midfielder couldn't keep his effort below the bar.
Ivica Olic fired a shot over the bar following a good turn in the box, Ivan Rakatic missed with a header and Srna continued to threaten with his deliveries as Stimac's men began to up the ante.
Strachan's men, though, sat deep and absorbed the pressure well until the break.
It took an hour before the Croatian's genuinely threatened again as Mandzukic came agonizingly close to turning in Rakitic's dangerous low cross from the left wing.
Eduardo and Nikola Kalinic both came on for the hosts as they went all out in search of an equalizer, but a couple of long range strikes from Sammir is all they could muster.
Frustration was etched across Stimac's face as the game entered the final few minutes but despite plenty of probing, his players met the Scotland defense in impenetrable form on the night.
Scotland picked up the first win of its 2014 World Cup qualification campaign with an unlikely 1-0 victory over Croatia in Zagreb.
The hosts suffered a frustrating first half as they were unable to score despite a string of good chances.
That left them vulnerable to the sucker punch, which was provided by Robert Snodgrass' opportunistic strike.
Igor Stimac's side huffed and puffed after the break but failed to break down a resolute Scotland defense.
Gordan Strachan made six changes to the side which lost its last qualifier to Serbia. Leigh Griffiths was the surprise inclusion, making his first competitive appearance for Scotland ahead of Blackburn striker Jordan Rhodes.
Former Tottenham duo Luka Modric and Vedran Corluka both missed the game for the hosts through suspension; otherwise Stimac had a fully fit squad to select from.
The hosts made a quiet start to the game on a warm night in Zagreb, allowing Scotland to see plenty of the ball early on. The visitors, though, were not able to fashion any real chances despite periods of possession.
Darijo Srna was Croatia's main instigator in the first half, bombing up and down the right flank. The Shakhtar Donetsk captain's crosses looked like the hosts' best bet for a goal during a dour first period, but Mario Mandzukic repeatedly struggled to meet his teammate's deliveries in the box.
They soon paid for their casual start as Scotland stunned the Stadion Maksimir and took an unlikely lead.
Shaun Maloney picked up the ball near the halfway line and ran straight at the heart of the Croatia's defense when Srna's attempt at a tackle inadvertently took the ball into the path of Snodgrass. The Norwich man was alert enough to prod the ball past Stipe Pletikosa with an outstretched leg.
The hosts' best chance of the half came when Grant Hanley played a sloppy ball back to Alan McGregor under pressure from Mandzukic. Following a ricochet, the ball fell to Sammir at the edge of the area but the Brazilian-born midfielder couldn't keep his effort below the bar.
Ivica Olic fired a shot over the bar following a good turn in the box, Ivan Rakatic missed with a header and Srna continued to threaten with his deliveries as Stimac's men began to up the ante.
Strachan's men, though, sat deep and absorbed the pressure well until the break.
It took an hour before the Croatian's genuinely threatened again as Mandzukic came agonizingly close to turning in Rakitic's dangerous low cross from the left wing.
Eduardo and Nikola Kalinic both came on for the hosts as they went all out in search of an equalizer, but a couple of long range strikes from Sammir is all they could muster.
Frustration was etched across Stimac's face as the game entered the final few minutes but despite plenty of probing, his players met the Scotland defense in impenetrable form on the night.
Czech Republic 0-0 Italy: Balotelli dismissed for visitors in Prague stalemate
Italy survived the dismissal of Mario Balotelli to move four points clear at the top of 2014 World Cup qualifying Group B with a dour 0-0 draw with Czech Republic on Friday night.
The Azzurri turned in a dismal performance in Prague and appeared in real danger of defeat when their star forward was sent off for a second bookable offense on 71 minutes.
However, the Czechs, who had been repeatedly been frustrated by Gianluigi Buffon up until that point, missed a glorious chance to win the game when Petr Jiracek volleyed against the post, meaning the home side had to settle for a draw that leaves them third in the pool, a point behind Bulgaria.
Italy came into the game on the back of a four-game winning streak in Group B but the Czechs, who were routed 3-0 at home by Denmark in their last outing, made the brighter start and they really should have taken the lead 12 minutes in but Buffon saved brilliantly with his feet, after the ball had fallen kindly for Jiracek in the area.
The hosts continued to look the side more likely to break the deadlock during the remainder of a desperately underwhelming first half, but that was not saying much, given just how little the Azzurri were offering from an attacking perspective, with Balotelli the only player clad in blue who looked remotely capable of making something happen for the visitors.
As it was, though, the best that the Czechs could muster before a most welcome break from the tedium unfolding on the field was a decent long-range effort from Libor Kozak.
After making the rather surprise decision to play 4-3-1-2, with the unfortunate Riccardo Montolivo again employed in the trequartista role that he is in no way suited for, Cesare Prandelli even more bizarrely opted against reverting to his usual three-man front line for the start of the second half, and instead simply replaced Stephan El Shaarawy with Sebastian Giovinco.
The change in personnel made little impact on the toothless nature of Italy's display and they were indebted to the brilliance of Buffon again on the hour when the captain saved well with his feet once more, this time from Kozak, who had been put in on goal by a perfectly-pitched ball over the top from Tomas Rosicky.
Kozak drew another smart stop out of Buffon five minutes later, after evading Daniele De Rossi on the edge of the area as the hosts belatedly realized that they had an excellent opportunity to derail their group's runaway leaders.
Their hopes of doing just that were significantly boosted by Balotelli's dismissal, with the striker dismissed after two needless fouls in the space four minutes, though it must be said that the second booking, for throwing his hand in the face of Theodor Gebre Selassie, was harsh in the extreme.
The Czechs should have won it with six minutes left, but after Italy had completely switched off for a Jaroslav Plasil free kick, an unmarked Jiracek volleyed against the outside of the post, much to the relief of the Azzurri, who took another significant step on the road to Rio in spite of a dismal display.
Italy survived the dismissal of Mario Balotelli to move four points clear at the top of 2014 World Cup qualifying Group B with a dour 0-0 draw with Czech Republic on Friday night.
The Azzurri turned in a dismal performance in Prague and appeared in real danger of defeat when their star forward was sent off for a second bookable offense on 71 minutes.
However, the Czechs, who had been repeatedly been frustrated by Gianluigi Buffon up until that point, missed a glorious chance to win the game when Petr Jiracek volleyed against the post, meaning the home side had to settle for a draw that leaves them third in the pool, a point behind Bulgaria.
Italy came into the game on the back of a four-game winning streak in Group B but the Czechs, who were routed 3-0 at home by Denmark in their last outing, made the brighter start and they really should have taken the lead 12 minutes in but Buffon saved brilliantly with his feet, after the ball had fallen kindly for Jiracek in the area.
The hosts continued to look the side more likely to break the deadlock during the remainder of a desperately underwhelming first half, but that was not saying much, given just how little the Azzurri were offering from an attacking perspective, with Balotelli the only player clad in blue who looked remotely capable of making something happen for the visitors.
As it was, though, the best that the Czechs could muster before a most welcome break from the tedium unfolding on the field was a decent long-range effort from Libor Kozak.
After making the rather surprise decision to play 4-3-1-2, with the unfortunate Riccardo Montolivo again employed in the trequartista role that he is in no way suited for, Cesare Prandelli even more bizarrely opted against reverting to his usual three-man front line for the start of the second half, and instead simply replaced Stephan El Shaarawy with Sebastian Giovinco.
The change in personnel made little impact on the toothless nature of Italy's display and they were indebted to the brilliance of Buffon again on the hour when the captain saved well with his feet once more, this time from Kozak, who had been put in on goal by a perfectly-pitched ball over the top from Tomas Rosicky.
Kozak drew another smart stop out of Buffon five minutes later, after evading Daniele De Rossi on the edge of the area as the hosts belatedly realized that they had an excellent opportunity to derail their group's runaway leaders.
Their hopes of doing just that were significantly boosted by Balotelli's dismissal, with the striker dismissed after two needless fouls in the space four minutes, though it must be said that the second booking, for throwing his hand in the face of Theodor Gebre Selassie, was harsh in the extreme.
The Czechs should have won it with six minutes left, but after Italy had completely switched off for a Jaroslav Plasil free kick, an unmarked Jiracek volleyed against the outside of the post, much to the relief of the Azzurri, who took another significant step on the road to Rio in spite of a dismal display.
Ireland 3-0 Faroe Islands: Keane the hat trick hero on record-breaking night
Robbie Keane marked his record-breaking 126th international appearance with a hat trick as Republic of Ireland eased past Faroe Islands 3-0 in their World Cup Qualifier at the Aviva Stadium.
The 32-year-old took just four minutes to breach the visitors’ defense before taking his international tally to 59 goals with a second-half brace and in the process earning the Boys in Green three crucial points as the race for second in Group C intensifies.Wes Hoolahan was handed his first competitive start by Giovanni Trapattoni in the absence of the suspended James McCarthy, and it didn’t take long for the Norwich playmaker to justify his inclusion.
A neat one-two with Jonathan Walters on the edge of the area created a pocket of space for the 33-year-old to feed Aiden McGeady on the left and his low cross was swept home by Keane.
Moments later, the LA Galaxy front man very nearly turned provider but defender Jonhard Frederiksberg did brilliantly to get across and block Jonathan Walters’ goal bound effort after Keane’s clever ball down the side of the visitors’ defense.
The early goal was exactly what Trapattoni and the home fans had wished for but instead of kicking on and creating daylight between themselves and their inferior opponents, the hosts seemed to rest on their laurels and struggled to find the cutting edge in the final third.Both Walters and Keane were dropping off and finding acres of space and a move straight from the training ground almost doubled the home side’s advantage. Simon Cox’s quick thinking from a free kick caught the Faroes defense unaware but Keane couldn’t poke past the onrushing Gunnar Nielsen.
The Faroe Islands goalkeeper then pulled off an equally impressive save from the Irish captain’s fierce strike after a poor defensive clearance. The Boys in Green stepped up the intensity as the halftime whistle approached as McGeady continued to cause Frederiksberg problems every time he got forward.In a rare moment of reprieve from defensive duties, Lars Olsen’s side had appeals for a penalty waved away moments into the second period. Christian Holst went down under the clumsy challenge of Sean St Ledger but the Finnish official was quick to silence the calls for a spot kick.
It wasn’t long until Ireland’s domination paid off and once again it was incisive play from Hoolahan which led to the goal. For the first time in the match Seamus Coleman got away from his marker and needed no second invitation to fire the ball across the box where Keane was there to slot home.
The Italian tactician introduced James McClean and Conor Sammon shortly after the hour mark and the substitutes combined to put Keane’s hat trick on a plate. McClean’s cross from the right fell kindly at the feet of the Derby County striker before he diverted the ball in the direction of Keane to poke home for his 59thgoal in a green jersey.
Austria’s 2-1 victory over Sweden means the Boys in Green are up to third in Group C on 11 points but travel to Stockholm in October for their next qualifier on the road to Brazil.
Robbie Keane marked his record-breaking 126th international appearance with a hat trick as Republic of Ireland eased past Faroe Islands 3-0 in their World Cup Qualifier at the Aviva Stadium.
The 32-year-old took just four minutes to breach the visitors’ defense before taking his international tally to 59 goals with a second-half brace and in the process earning the Boys in Green three crucial points as the race for second in Group C intensifies.Wes Hoolahan was handed his first competitive start by Giovanni Trapattoni in the absence of the suspended James McCarthy, and it didn’t take long for the Norwich playmaker to justify his inclusion.
A neat one-two with Jonathan Walters on the edge of the area created a pocket of space for the 33-year-old to feed Aiden McGeady on the left and his low cross was swept home by Keane.
Moments later, the LA Galaxy front man very nearly turned provider but defender Jonhard Frederiksberg did brilliantly to get across and block Jonathan Walters’ goal bound effort after Keane’s clever ball down the side of the visitors’ defense.
The early goal was exactly what Trapattoni and the home fans had wished for but instead of kicking on and creating daylight between themselves and their inferior opponents, the hosts seemed to rest on their laurels and struggled to find the cutting edge in the final third.Both Walters and Keane were dropping off and finding acres of space and a move straight from the training ground almost doubled the home side’s advantage. Simon Cox’s quick thinking from a free kick caught the Faroes defense unaware but Keane couldn’t poke past the onrushing Gunnar Nielsen.
The Faroe Islands goalkeeper then pulled off an equally impressive save from the Irish captain’s fierce strike after a poor defensive clearance. The Boys in Green stepped up the intensity as the halftime whistle approached as McGeady continued to cause Frederiksberg problems every time he got forward.In a rare moment of reprieve from defensive duties, Lars Olsen’s side had appeals for a penalty waved away moments into the second period. Christian Holst went down under the clumsy challenge of Sean St Ledger but the Finnish official was quick to silence the calls for a spot kick.
It wasn’t long until Ireland’s domination paid off and once again it was incisive play from Hoolahan which led to the goal. For the first time in the match Seamus Coleman got away from his marker and needed no second invitation to fire the ball across the box where Keane was there to slot home.
The Italian tactician introduced James McClean and Conor Sammon shortly after the hour mark and the substitutes combined to put Keane’s hat trick on a plate. McClean’s cross from the right fell kindly at the feet of the Derby County striker before he diverted the ball in the direction of Keane to poke home for his 59thgoal in a green jersey.
Austria’s 2-1 victory over Sweden means the Boys in Green are up to third in Group C on 11 points but travel to Stockholm in October for their next qualifier on the road to Brazil.
Toshack: Bale better than Neymar
The former Bernabeu boss has nothing but praise for his compatriot and thinks he's an even better player than the Brazil international Former Real Madrid coach John Toshack believes that Tottenham star Gareth Bale is a better player than new Barcelona signing Neymar and thinks the Welshman is on the same level as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Bale is continually being linked with a move to Madrid and the ex-Santiago Bernabeu boss has little doubt that his compatriot will be a success at the Blancos if he were to move to Spain.
"He’s better than Neymar, because he’s playing in a more competitive league. If someone is worth 100 million euros right now, it’s Bale. With Neymar we’ll have to wait and see," Toshack told Punto Pelota."Even a blind man can see he’s got something different. He’s an all-terrain vehicle, an introvert, a modest and outstanding professional. The injuries he suffered as a youngster made him stronger.
He added, "It’s said that we’ve never seen anything like Messi, and people talk a lot about the strength of Cristiano Ronaldo, but Bale is close to the two of them. He’s up there with the Ronaldos and the Messis. He’ll play for one of the two big clubs in Spain. He’s made for the Champions League."
The 23-year-old has a contract with Spurs until the summer of 2016.
The former Bernabeu boss has nothing but praise for his compatriot and thinks he's an even better player than the Brazil international Former Real Madrid coach John Toshack believes that Tottenham star Gareth Bale is a better player than new Barcelona signing Neymar and thinks the Welshman is on the same level as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Bale is continually being linked with a move to Madrid and the ex-Santiago Bernabeu boss has little doubt that his compatriot will be a success at the Blancos if he were to move to Spain.
"He’s better than Neymar, because he’s playing in a more competitive league. If someone is worth 100 million euros right now, it’s Bale. With Neymar we’ll have to wait and see," Toshack told Punto Pelota."Even a blind man can see he’s got something different. He’s an all-terrain vehicle, an introvert, a modest and outstanding professional. The injuries he suffered as a youngster made him stronger.
He added, "It’s said that we’ve never seen anything like Messi, and people talk a lot about the strength of Cristiano Ronaldo, but Bale is close to the two of them. He’s up there with the Ronaldos and the Messis. He’ll play for one of the two big clubs in Spain. He’s made for the Champions League."
The 23-year-old has a contract with Spurs until the summer of 2016.
Albiol: Higuain a great signing for any team
The defender has little doubt that the Argentine forward is good enough to become an instant at his next club regardless of his destination Raul Albiol believes Gonzalo Higuain has what it takes to succeed at any club if he were to leave Real Madrid this summer.
The Argentina international recently stated that he wants to leave the Santiago Bernabeu and Juventus are supposedly keen to lure the attacker to Turin ahead of the 2013-14 campaign.
"Pipita is a phenomenal player. I don’t know if we’ll continue as team-mates, but it’s a pleasure to play with him. He’s a spectacular striker," Albiol told AS.
"He has fought hard at Madrid, he has had to pick himself up a lot of times. If he leaves, I wish him the best and he’ll be a great addition to the team he signs for. I hope I never have to come up against him, though, because he’s an excellent player!"
The 25-year-old has a contract with Madrid until June 2016 and is expected to cost interested suitors around 25-30 million euros.
The defender has little doubt that the Argentine forward is good enough to become an instant at his next club regardless of his destination Raul Albiol believes Gonzalo Higuain has what it takes to succeed at any club if he were to leave Real Madrid this summer.
The Argentina international recently stated that he wants to leave the Santiago Bernabeu and Juventus are supposedly keen to lure the attacker to Turin ahead of the 2013-14 campaign.
"Pipita is a phenomenal player. I don’t know if we’ll continue as team-mates, but it’s a pleasure to play with him. He’s a spectacular striker," Albiol told AS.
"He has fought hard at Madrid, he has had to pick himself up a lot of times. If he leaves, I wish him the best and he’ll be a great addition to the team he signs for. I hope I never have to come up against him, though, because he’s an excellent player!"
The 25-year-old has a contract with Madrid until June 2016 and is expected to cost interested suitors around 25-30 million euros.
Argentina 0-0 Colombia: Higuain and Zapata sent off in entertaining draw
Argentina could see its lead at the top of the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying group cut to just two points after it was held to a 0-0 draw by Colombia at Estadio Monumental.
After an open start which saw plenty of goal-mouth action, it was ultimately a refereeing decision that took the life from the game. Cristian Zapata and Gonzalo Higuain were both dismissed following a first-half altercation and as more conservative play flourished, neither side found the net before the final whistle.
Despite Lionel Messi starting among the substitutes, the Albiceleste began positively and could have found themselves ahead inside four minutes. Angel di Maria's flick played Pablo Zabaleta in on the overlap but his cross was hit just behind both Walter Montillo and Sergio Aguero.
Di Maria was at it again in the eighth minute, sliding a lovely through ball to Higuain, but David Ospina raced out of his goal to block the striker from slotting in the opener.
The chances continued to flow at both ends, though Argentina remained the more threatening of the two sides.
After Radamel Falcao had somehow contrived to head wide from just outside the six-yard box, a poor clearance from Carlos Sanchez in the 17th minute fell straight to Higuain. Ospina made himself big to block the volley and Marcos Rojo was unable to head in the rebound.
In what was an open, hotly-contested fixture, things boiled over in the 26th minute. Following Higuain's overzealous challenge on Ospina, Zapata reacted angrily and kicked out at the striker. The referee subsequently showed the AC Milan man a red card and, following protests from the visitors, the official located Higuain and awarded him the same punishment for his original tackle.
The dismissals sapped the momentum from the game as, despite the increased amount of space on the field, both sides shrunk away from their previously-adventurous approaches.
With los Cafeteros starting to push the hosts back early in the second half, Alejandro Sabella played his top card by introducing Messi for Walter Montillo just before the hour mark.
It took the Barcelona superstar little over one minute to give the home fans something to shout about, initiating a move which ended with Luis Perea turning the ball behind for a corner.
The tide had certainly turned and the Albiceleste believed they had finally broken the deadlock in the 72nd minute when Sergio Aguero rolled in from close range, only to see the assistant referee with his flag raised for a contentious offside decision on the sidelines.
Argentina continued to press for a winner but it couldn't forge another meaningful opening that would see it open a temporary seven-point gap at the top of the group.
Instead, Sabella's team sits five points clear of Ecuador and Colombia having played 12 matches, with la Tri to play Peru on Saturday.
Argentina could see its lead at the top of the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying group cut to just two points after it was held to a 0-0 draw by Colombia at Estadio Monumental.
After an open start which saw plenty of goal-mouth action, it was ultimately a refereeing decision that took the life from the game. Cristian Zapata and Gonzalo Higuain were both dismissed following a first-half altercation and as more conservative play flourished, neither side found the net before the final whistle.
Despite Lionel Messi starting among the substitutes, the Albiceleste began positively and could have found themselves ahead inside four minutes. Angel di Maria's flick played Pablo Zabaleta in on the overlap but his cross was hit just behind both Walter Montillo and Sergio Aguero.
Di Maria was at it again in the eighth minute, sliding a lovely through ball to Higuain, but David Ospina raced out of his goal to block the striker from slotting in the opener.
The chances continued to flow at both ends, though Argentina remained the more threatening of the two sides.
After Radamel Falcao had somehow contrived to head wide from just outside the six-yard box, a poor clearance from Carlos Sanchez in the 17th minute fell straight to Higuain. Ospina made himself big to block the volley and Marcos Rojo was unable to head in the rebound.
In what was an open, hotly-contested fixture, things boiled over in the 26th minute. Following Higuain's overzealous challenge on Ospina, Zapata reacted angrily and kicked out at the striker. The referee subsequently showed the AC Milan man a red card and, following protests from the visitors, the official located Higuain and awarded him the same punishment for his original tackle.
The dismissals sapped the momentum from the game as, despite the increased amount of space on the field, both sides shrunk away from their previously-adventurous approaches.
With los Cafeteros starting to push the hosts back early in the second half, Alejandro Sabella played his top card by introducing Messi for Walter Montillo just before the hour mark.
It took the Barcelona superstar little over one minute to give the home fans something to shout about, initiating a move which ended with Luis Perea turning the ball behind for a corner.
The tide had certainly turned and the Albiceleste believed they had finally broken the deadlock in the 72nd minute when Sergio Aguero rolled in from close range, only to see the assistant referee with his flag raised for a contentious offside decision on the sidelines.
Argentina continued to press for a winner but it couldn't forge another meaningful opening that would see it open a temporary seven-point gap at the top of the group.
Instead, Sabella's team sits five points clear of Ecuador and Colombia having played 12 matches, with la Tri to play Peru on Saturday.
'It can happen to anyone' - Buffon downplays Balotell red
The AC Milan forward was sent off against the Czech Republic on Friday, but his Italy teammate has urged critics to lay off him.Gianluigi Buffon has insisted that Mario Balotelli was unlucky to be shown a red card in Italy's 0-0 draw with Czech Republic in Friday's World Cup 2014 qualifier.
The AC Milan striker was given his marching orders on 71 minutes following two bookable offences before punching and kicking the tunnel in frustration as he departed the pitch, but the goalkeeper was keen to play down the severity of the incident.
"I don't see anything serious [in Balotelli's red]. He picked up two yellows and it can happen to anyone, so I think people are reading too much into it," he told Rai Sport. "What matters is that when he goes onto the pitch, he gives his maximum. It's not an issue of maturity, they are just on-field situations."
Buffon then reflected on Italy's performance and admitted that his side was reeling from the demands of a tough club season, having been outplayed for long spells in the Czech capital.
"It's an important point. In our next matches, we must arrive [on the pitch] with righteous anger, competitive charge, but also the desire to fight. All these components were missing due to not playing for a month," the Juventus man added. "We struggled to put them into practice. I think it was a problem physically and mentally. When the season ends, you become deflated and are unprepared for matches like this.
"We have also carried heavy loads [over the course of the season]. But what matters the most is our allegiance to the national team, which never fails on the part of anyone."
Meanwhile, Alberto Aquilani - who came off the bench to replace Andrea Pirlo in the second half - took the positives out of the stalemate and voiced his delight at establishing himself in the national team.
"It was a complicated match. [The Czechs] played to the death and gave everything for all three points. It is a draw that gives us hope, so we must accept it in a positive way," the Fiorentina midfielder said. "I tried to give my best when I entered the pitch. I'm fine with being labeled as a midfield deputy. I'm glad because it means I can play many roles."
The AC Milan forward was sent off against the Czech Republic on Friday, but his Italy teammate has urged critics to lay off him.Gianluigi Buffon has insisted that Mario Balotelli was unlucky to be shown a red card in Italy's 0-0 draw with Czech Republic in Friday's World Cup 2014 qualifier.
The AC Milan striker was given his marching orders on 71 minutes following two bookable offences before punching and kicking the tunnel in frustration as he departed the pitch, but the goalkeeper was keen to play down the severity of the incident.
"I don't see anything serious [in Balotelli's red]. He picked up two yellows and it can happen to anyone, so I think people are reading too much into it," he told Rai Sport. "What matters is that when he goes onto the pitch, he gives his maximum. It's not an issue of maturity, they are just on-field situations."
Buffon then reflected on Italy's performance and admitted that his side was reeling from the demands of a tough club season, having been outplayed for long spells in the Czech capital.
"It's an important point. In our next matches, we must arrive [on the pitch] with righteous anger, competitive charge, but also the desire to fight. All these components were missing due to not playing for a month," the Juventus man added. "We struggled to put them into practice. I think it was a problem physically and mentally. When the season ends, you become deflated and are unprepared for matches like this.
"We have also carried heavy loads [over the course of the season]. But what matters the most is our allegiance to the national team, which never fails on the part of anyone."
Meanwhile, Alberto Aquilani - who came off the bench to replace Andrea Pirlo in the second half - took the positives out of the stalemate and voiced his delight at establishing himself in the national team.
"It was a complicated match. [The Czechs] played to the death and gave everything for all three points. It is a draw that gives us hope, so we must accept it in a positive way," the Fiorentina midfielder said. "I tried to give my best when I entered the pitch. I'm fine with being labeled as a midfield deputy. I'm glad because it means I can play many roles."
Alonso hails 'perfect' communicator Mourinho
The Portuguese was painted as a divisive figure in the Spanish capital, but the defensive midfielder could only speak highly of his experience playing under the 50-year-old Xabi Alonso has paid tribute to Jose Mourinho by claiming that the former Real Madrid coach never lost the dressing room during his time at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The 50-year-old's last season at the helm of the Blancos was marred by reports of conflicts with numerous personnel - including captain Iker Casillas and Spain international Sergio Ramos.
But in Alonso's eyes, contrary to media perceptions, Mourinho - who has since left Madrid in favour of a return to Chelsea - is not a divisive figure, but rather a "perfect" communicator.
"He's someone who can touch a chord and knows how to perfectly transmit messages in the dressing room. He is a good communicator," he told So Foot. "He knows how and when to make quick decisions which can change the outcome of a game."
Alonso has undergone surgery on a groin injury and will consequently be out of action for six to eight weeks, thus missing the opportunity to represent Spain at the Confederations Cup.
The Portuguese was painted as a divisive figure in the Spanish capital, but the defensive midfielder could only speak highly of his experience playing under the 50-year-old Xabi Alonso has paid tribute to Jose Mourinho by claiming that the former Real Madrid coach never lost the dressing room during his time at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The 50-year-old's last season at the helm of the Blancos was marred by reports of conflicts with numerous personnel - including captain Iker Casillas and Spain international Sergio Ramos.
But in Alonso's eyes, contrary to media perceptions, Mourinho - who has since left Madrid in favour of a return to Chelsea - is not a divisive figure, but rather a "perfect" communicator.
"He's someone who can touch a chord and knows how to perfectly transmit messages in the dressing room. He is a good communicator," he told So Foot. "He knows how and when to make quick decisions which can change the outcome of a game."
Alonso has undergone surgery on a groin injury and will consequently be out of action for six to eight weeks, thus missing the opportunity to represent Spain at the Confederations Cup.
Portugal 1-0 Russia: Postiga clinches crucial qualification win
Portugal recorded a priceless 1-0 victory over Russia in their qualifier at the Estadio da Luz on Friday to keep its 2014 World Cup hopes well and truly alive.
Helder Postiga scored the game's lone goal after only nine minutes with a close-range volley from Miguel Veloso's free kick to send Portugal into a two point lead atop Group F, though Fabio Capello's men still hold two games in hand.
After winning their first four games in Group F, Russia was expected to make life very difficult for the Seleccao, but was hugely disappointing in Lisbon as the hosts clinched victory with little trouble, putting pressure back on third-placed Israel.
With Pepe suspended, Paulo Bento handed a competitive debut to Luis Neto in defence, with Nani benched in favor of Vieirinha on the right flank, while Russia saw captain Igor Denisov return to the starting XI.The visitors were on the back foot right from the start, and it was no surprise to see them concede after only nine minutes after a strong beginning from an inspired Portugal side.
Veloso whipped in a free kick from the left, and Postiga glided in unmarked to neatly volley the ball home at the back post – the first goal conceded by Russia in World Cup qualifying.
It was all Portugal as the first half progressed, with Russia barely able to get out of its own half. Capello clearly recognized the need to shake things up, and hauled off Viktor Faizulin after only 21 minutes for Denis Glushakov.And the Russia trainer was forced to make another early change after half an hour, as Aleksandr Anyukov, struggling with an injury, departed, with Aleksey Kozlov replacing him.
Portugal should have been two goals to the good immediately after, when Joao Moutinho picked out Vieirinha on the right, who in turn squared to Cristiano Ronaldo, but the Real Madrid man, from 12 yards, spooned his shot over.And the hosts were fortunate that their profligacy was not punished when a flapping punch by Rui Patricio left him out of position and presented the ball to Dmitri Kombarov, who teed up Glushakov for a shot that rolled wide of an empty net.Momentum began to swing in Russia’s favour as the half ended, and Portugal was left counting its blessings again when Fabio Coentrao’s trailing arm made contact with the ball inside the area, but the officials decided against awarding a penalty.
But Ronaldo attempted to drive his side back into the ascendancy at the start of the second half, driving narrowly wide before testing Igor Akinfeev at his near post with a low shot after racing past the last defender.
The second half seemed to be shaping up in much the same pattern as the first, with Portugal in control, although it was given a reminder of Russia’s quality when Aleksandr Kerzhakov sprinted behind Bruno Alves, but Patricio was there to smother at the near post.And Vladimir Bystrov nearly brought the visitors level in stunning fashion with 22 minutes remaining, but fired narrowly over the bar after connecting perfectly with an overhead kick.
Both sides spurned glorious chances late on; Ronam Shirokov firing right at Patricio from a gilt-edged position before Ronaldo was thwarted by a brilliant Akinfeev save with two minutes left.
But by then, Bento's men had done enough to ensure themselves of victory, which puts them top of the standings and leaves Group F wide open.
Portugal recorded a priceless 1-0 victory over Russia in their qualifier at the Estadio da Luz on Friday to keep its 2014 World Cup hopes well and truly alive.
Helder Postiga scored the game's lone goal after only nine minutes with a close-range volley from Miguel Veloso's free kick to send Portugal into a two point lead atop Group F, though Fabio Capello's men still hold two games in hand.
After winning their first four games in Group F, Russia was expected to make life very difficult for the Seleccao, but was hugely disappointing in Lisbon as the hosts clinched victory with little trouble, putting pressure back on third-placed Israel.
With Pepe suspended, Paulo Bento handed a competitive debut to Luis Neto in defence, with Nani benched in favor of Vieirinha on the right flank, while Russia saw captain Igor Denisov return to the starting XI.The visitors were on the back foot right from the start, and it was no surprise to see them concede after only nine minutes after a strong beginning from an inspired Portugal side.
Veloso whipped in a free kick from the left, and Postiga glided in unmarked to neatly volley the ball home at the back post – the first goal conceded by Russia in World Cup qualifying.
It was all Portugal as the first half progressed, with Russia barely able to get out of its own half. Capello clearly recognized the need to shake things up, and hauled off Viktor Faizulin after only 21 minutes for Denis Glushakov.And the Russia trainer was forced to make another early change after half an hour, as Aleksandr Anyukov, struggling with an injury, departed, with Aleksey Kozlov replacing him.
Portugal should have been two goals to the good immediately after, when Joao Moutinho picked out Vieirinha on the right, who in turn squared to Cristiano Ronaldo, but the Real Madrid man, from 12 yards, spooned his shot over.And the hosts were fortunate that their profligacy was not punished when a flapping punch by Rui Patricio left him out of position and presented the ball to Dmitri Kombarov, who teed up Glushakov for a shot that rolled wide of an empty net.Momentum began to swing in Russia’s favour as the half ended, and Portugal was left counting its blessings again when Fabio Coentrao’s trailing arm made contact with the ball inside the area, but the officials decided against awarding a penalty.
But Ronaldo attempted to drive his side back into the ascendancy at the start of the second half, driving narrowly wide before testing Igor Akinfeev at his near post with a low shot after racing past the last defender.
The second half seemed to be shaping up in much the same pattern as the first, with Portugal in control, although it was given a reminder of Russia’s quality when Aleksandr Kerzhakov sprinted behind Bruno Alves, but Patricio was there to smother at the near post.And Vladimir Bystrov nearly brought the visitors level in stunning fashion with 22 minutes remaining, but fired narrowly over the bar after connecting perfectly with an overhead kick.
Both sides spurned glorious chances late on; Ronam Shirokov firing right at Patricio from a gilt-edged position before Ronaldo was thwarted by a brilliant Akinfeev save with two minutes left.
But by then, Bento's men had done enough to ensure themselves of victory, which puts them top of the standings and leaves Group F wide open.
Reina: I hope Suarez stays at Liverpool
The Spanish goalkeeper said that he would understand if Suarez departed Anfield but hopes that he stays put despite the ongoing saga at the club.Controversial forward Luis Suarez may very well wind up departing Liverpool, but his club teammate and goalkeeper Pepe Reina hopes he remains at Anfield for the foreseeable future.
On the eve of Spain's friendly against Haiti in Miami, Roja shot-stopper Reina said that he hopes Suarez stays with the Reds despite rampant speculation and comments from the player himself that he wants out. Suarez, the club's leading scorer with 30 goals in all competitions before a ban for biting Chelsea's Branislav Ivanovic cut his season short, recently told Uruguayan radio that the English press has driven him to the point where he wants to play elsewhere.
"I haven't read Luis himself say he wants out of Liverpool to be honest," Reina said on a conference call with reporters. "He might say that the times they've been a little bit rough and the media has been having a bit of a go at him. In the past it's been difficult for him and his family.
"To be honest, I would like for Luis to stay at Liverpool, but I understand if he's thinking about leaving for a bigger -- when I say bigger I mean not as a club, just challenging for titles and playing in the Champions League and competing with the best. Because of the situation, because of the treatment by the media, it would be difficult for any player, not just Luis to stay strong and be happy.
"Hopefully he will stay at Liverpool many years, but I understand for him if the right offer comes for him and for the club for him to go."
Reports have linked Suarez, who scored for Uruguay in a win over France this past week, with a move to Real Madrid, among other places. Chelsea striker Fernando Torres, who has dealt with media pressure of a different kind during his dip in form with the Blues, said that being painted a certain way by the media is not easy to handle but that Suarez was strong enough to get beyond that and keep playing for Liverpool.
"I never had a problem with the media, the media had a problem with me," Torres said. "That affects your family, your friends, it's not easy. I know Luis, he is strong enough to play football apart of all the rumors and all the talks. But it's not easy. Sometimes he might think it's just better to forget about that and move away, but it's his decision."
The Spanish goalkeeper said that he would understand if Suarez departed Anfield but hopes that he stays put despite the ongoing saga at the club.Controversial forward Luis Suarez may very well wind up departing Liverpool, but his club teammate and goalkeeper Pepe Reina hopes he remains at Anfield for the foreseeable future.
On the eve of Spain's friendly against Haiti in Miami, Roja shot-stopper Reina said that he hopes Suarez stays with the Reds despite rampant speculation and comments from the player himself that he wants out. Suarez, the club's leading scorer with 30 goals in all competitions before a ban for biting Chelsea's Branislav Ivanovic cut his season short, recently told Uruguayan radio that the English press has driven him to the point where he wants to play elsewhere.
"I haven't read Luis himself say he wants out of Liverpool to be honest," Reina said on a conference call with reporters. "He might say that the times they've been a little bit rough and the media has been having a bit of a go at him. In the past it's been difficult for him and his family.
"To be honest, I would like for Luis to stay at Liverpool, but I understand if he's thinking about leaving for a bigger -- when I say bigger I mean not as a club, just challenging for titles and playing in the Champions League and competing with the best. Because of the situation, because of the treatment by the media, it would be difficult for any player, not just Luis to stay strong and be happy.
"Hopefully he will stay at Liverpool many years, but I understand for him if the right offer comes for him and for the club for him to go."
Reports have linked Suarez, who scored for Uruguay in a win over France this past week, with a move to Real Madrid, among other places. Chelsea striker Fernando Torres, who has dealt with media pressure of a different kind during his dip in form with the Blues, said that being painted a certain way by the media is not easy to handle but that Suarez was strong enough to get beyond that and keep playing for Liverpool.
"I never had a problem with the media, the media had a problem with me," Torres said. "That affects your family, your friends, it's not easy. I know Luis, he is strong enough to play football apart of all the rumors and all the talks. But it's not easy. Sometimes he might think it's just better to forget about that and move away, but it's his decision."
Van Persie 'honored' by Netherlands captaincy
The prolific striker took the national team's armband for the first time in Friday's 3-0 friendly win over Indonesia, confirming that the appointment is for the long term.
Manchester United striker Robin van Persie has declared himself "honored" to be named the new captain of the Netherlands.
The ex-Arsenal forward has scored 34 goals in 74 games for the Oranje and took the armband for the first time in a 3-0 friendly win over Indonesia on Friday.
"I'm very honored with this," van Persie told reporters after the game. "On Monday the coach [Louis van Gaal] asked me if I wanted to be captain. It's very flattering so I accepted.
"This choice is not only for now but for a longer period."
Arjen Robben's late goal and Siem de Jong's double gave van Persie’s side a 3-0 win over their opponents in Jakarta and the United star was pleased with their performance.
"It was a tough match because of the heat and breathing was pretty heavy," van Persie said. "But, with this in mind, we did very well, I think.
"You can't always put pressure on your opponent. We want to play our own game and sometimes you have to let the opponent come.
"The atmosphere was very nice. I've been in these countries before with my clubs and it's always nice to see all these people react so enthusiastically."
The prolific striker took the national team's armband for the first time in Friday's 3-0 friendly win over Indonesia, confirming that the appointment is for the long term.
Manchester United striker Robin van Persie has declared himself "honored" to be named the new captain of the Netherlands.
The ex-Arsenal forward has scored 34 goals in 74 games for the Oranje and took the armband for the first time in a 3-0 friendly win over Indonesia on Friday.
"I'm very honored with this," van Persie told reporters after the game. "On Monday the coach [Louis van Gaal] asked me if I wanted to be captain. It's very flattering so I accepted.
"This choice is not only for now but for a longer period."
Arjen Robben's late goal and Siem de Jong's double gave van Persie’s side a 3-0 win over their opponents in Jakarta and the United star was pleased with their performance.
"It was a tough match because of the heat and breathing was pretty heavy," van Persie said. "But, with this in mind, we did very well, I think.
"You can't always put pressure on your opponent. We want to play our own game and sometimes you have to let the opponent come.
"The atmosphere was very nice. I've been in these countries before with my clubs and it's always nice to see all these people react so enthusiastically."
Blanc dismisses PSG and Roma speculation
The 47-year-old has underlined his desire to return to management but insists he has not agreed terms with any club Former France boss Laurent Blanc has denied rumours linking him with the Roma, Paris Saint-Germain or Real Sociedad posts next season.
Speculation had been rife that the Frenchman was a leading contender to take over at Roma, and Sociedad was widely believed to have a deal in the offing until Jagoba Arrasate was announced as Philippe Montanier's replacement.
But while confirming he was looking for a new outfit ahead of the 2013-14 season, Blanc has quashed any suggestions that he has already decided on a destination.
"Yes I will [be looking for a new job], but at this moment, there is nothing," he revealed to La Provence. "We can talk about many things, but the one thing I can say is it will not happen with Roma. They are the only club I have had real contact with, and it will not happen.
"Everything else is speculation. I also heard you sent me to Real Sociedad, but I never had any discussion with those people."
When asked whether he would be in the running to replace Carlo Ancelotti in Paris Saint-Germain's dugout, Blanc added: "Again, it's fantasy."
Blanc assumed charge of France following a successful stint in charge of Bordeaux, but stepped down following les Bleus' Euro 2012 quarterfinal elimination at the hands of eventual winner Spain.
The 47-year-old has underlined his desire to return to management but insists he has not agreed terms with any club Former France boss Laurent Blanc has denied rumours linking him with the Roma, Paris Saint-Germain or Real Sociedad posts next season.
Speculation had been rife that the Frenchman was a leading contender to take over at Roma, and Sociedad was widely believed to have a deal in the offing until Jagoba Arrasate was announced as Philippe Montanier's replacement.
But while confirming he was looking for a new outfit ahead of the 2013-14 season, Blanc has quashed any suggestions that he has already decided on a destination.
"Yes I will [be looking for a new job], but at this moment, there is nothing," he revealed to La Provence. "We can talk about many things, but the one thing I can say is it will not happen with Roma. They are the only club I have had real contact with, and it will not happen.
"Everything else is speculation. I also heard you sent me to Real Sociedad, but I never had any discussion with those people."
When asked whether he would be in the running to replace Carlo Ancelotti in Paris Saint-Germain's dugout, Blanc added: "Again, it's fantasy."
Blanc assumed charge of France following a successful stint in charge of Bordeaux, but stepped down following les Bleus' Euro 2012 quarterfinal elimination at the hands of eventual winner Spain.
Spain 2-1 Haiti: Cesc on target as Spain amble past Haiti
Vicente Del Bosques' Spain side showed possible weakness on Friday evening, ahead of the Confederations Cup, narrowly beating resilient opponent Haiti in an international friendly played in sunny Florida.
Goals from Santi Cazorla and Cesc Fabregas were enough to wrap up a slim win for the reigning European and world champion, with Donald Guerrier grabbing a historic goal for the Haitian minnows.
It didn't take long for Spain to assert dominance, merely eight minutes in fact. After patient buildup play, Santi Cazorla was given far too much space and the Arsenal midfielder didn't hesitate, blasting a left-footed effort into the bottom corner past a sprawling Frandy Montrevil.
Just before the 20 minute mark, the Spaniards were celebrating once more, as Cesc Fabregas doubled his side's advantage. A wondrous chipped through ball from Juan Mata found Fabregas unmarked in the Haiti penalty area, allowed for the Barca man to nod the ball over the onrushing goalkeeper and into the net.
Haiti wasn't to play out a toothless game however, as Kervens Belfort fired a snapshot narrowly wide of Iker Casillas' post, but the Real Madrid shot stopper's walk to collect the ball proved to be one of his only first half duties.
Despite changes at the break, Spain predictably continued along the same vein of domination in the second half. Sony gave indication of a Haiti comeback however, as he raced through on goal on 52 minutes, but could only stab the ball wide of the post.
The post was to be Soldado's nemesis for the second half, as the inside of the woodwork denied the Spain striker on 70 minutes. After great work down the left from Andres Iniesta to set the ball square, Soldado could only hit the post when it looked easier to score.
The third goal however, was to be a historic one. After bursting through the Spanish lines and rounding Pepe Reina composedly, Donald Guerrier steered the ball into an unguarded net from eight yards to spark pandemonium in the stands. With 15 minutes left on the clock, the minnows clawed themselves back into the game.
Though the game looked to have turned on it's head, Soldado's luck proved consistent, as Valencia's top scorer struck the post yet again, after a fantastic chipped cross from Cazorla. Montrevil was completely beaten, but Soldado saw his effort cannon back off the woodwork.
Haiti wasn't satisfied with one goal however, as the team in blue pushed on in search of an equalizer on 78 minutes, but a block from Azpilicueta denied Guerrier from grabbing his second. Monuma was then on hand to dispossess Soldado from three yards out, as the Spanish striker continued to rue his luck.
The dream comeback wasn't to materialise however, as Haiti couldn't unluck the Spanish defense to find a second goal, and time petered out for the plucky minnows.
An efficient performance in terms of possession and creation for Spain, but Haiti has every reason to take heart from the performances, as it pushed the world champions every inch of the way. Spain's Confederations Cup opponents just might find it fallible.
Vicente Del Bosques' Spain side showed possible weakness on Friday evening, ahead of the Confederations Cup, narrowly beating resilient opponent Haiti in an international friendly played in sunny Florida.
Goals from Santi Cazorla and Cesc Fabregas were enough to wrap up a slim win for the reigning European and world champion, with Donald Guerrier grabbing a historic goal for the Haitian minnows.
It didn't take long for Spain to assert dominance, merely eight minutes in fact. After patient buildup play, Santi Cazorla was given far too much space and the Arsenal midfielder didn't hesitate, blasting a left-footed effort into the bottom corner past a sprawling Frandy Montrevil.
Just before the 20 minute mark, the Spaniards were celebrating once more, as Cesc Fabregas doubled his side's advantage. A wondrous chipped through ball from Juan Mata found Fabregas unmarked in the Haiti penalty area, allowed for the Barca man to nod the ball over the onrushing goalkeeper and into the net.
Haiti wasn't to play out a toothless game however, as Kervens Belfort fired a snapshot narrowly wide of Iker Casillas' post, but the Real Madrid shot stopper's walk to collect the ball proved to be one of his only first half duties.
Despite changes at the break, Spain predictably continued along the same vein of domination in the second half. Sony gave indication of a Haiti comeback however, as he raced through on goal on 52 minutes, but could only stab the ball wide of the post.
The post was to be Soldado's nemesis for the second half, as the inside of the woodwork denied the Spain striker on 70 minutes. After great work down the left from Andres Iniesta to set the ball square, Soldado could only hit the post when it looked easier to score.
The third goal however, was to be a historic one. After bursting through the Spanish lines and rounding Pepe Reina composedly, Donald Guerrier steered the ball into an unguarded net from eight yards to spark pandemonium in the stands. With 15 minutes left on the clock, the minnows clawed themselves back into the game.
Though the game looked to have turned on it's head, Soldado's luck proved consistent, as Valencia's top scorer struck the post yet again, after a fantastic chipped cross from Cazorla. Montrevil was completely beaten, but Soldado saw his effort cannon back off the woodwork.
Haiti wasn't satisfied with one goal however, as the team in blue pushed on in search of an equalizer on 78 minutes, but a block from Azpilicueta denied Guerrier from grabbing his second. Monuma was then on hand to dispossess Soldado from three yards out, as the Spanish striker continued to rue his luck.
The dream comeback wasn't to materialise however, as Haiti couldn't unluck the Spanish defense to find a second goal, and time petered out for the plucky minnows.
An efficient performance in terms of possession and creation for Spain, but Haiti has every reason to take heart from the performances, as it pushed the world champions every inch of the way. Spain's Confederations Cup opponents just might find it fallible.
Congratulations Spain!
England U-21 1-3 Norway U-21: Young Lions set for early exit after second defeat
England has been knocked out of the European Under-21 Championship with one group stage match still to play after suffering a 3-1 defeat to Norway in Petah Tikva.
Stuart Pearce's side looked to have shrugged off the disappointment of its poor performance and defeat to Italy before Fredrik Semb Berge gave Norway the lead, and could not recover after falling behind.
Jo Inge Berget added a second goal before halftime and Tore Ole Skullerud's team was cruising when Magnus Wolff Eikrem put the game beyond doubt after the break.
Craig Dawson earned and converted a penalty five minutes later but England showed few signs of mounting a dramatic comeback in the remaining half hour.
Pearce was boosted by the returns of Wilfried Zaha from injury and Tom Ince and Danny Rose from suspension, so Connor Wickham, Marvin Sordell and Jack Robinson dropped out. Elsewhere, Nathaniel Chalobah replaced Jonjo Shelvey in midfield and Adam Smith came in for Nathaniel Clyne at right-back.
England started encouragingly and dominated possession in the early stages but Norway reminded the Young Lions of its threat on the counterattack when Omar Elabdellaoui burst forward from right back only to shoot high and wide of goal.
Pearce's team struggled, too, to defend set-pieces. After Jack Butland had flapped at one corner, Eikrem's next delivery from the left was only partially cleared and when the midfielder returned the ball to the England box, Semb Berge steered home a fine finish on the turn.
Steven Caulker was then caught between two Norway players outside the England area and when Nielsen picked out Berget's run with a clever lobbed pass, the Molde forward smashed a volley beyond Butland to leave the Young Lions on the brink.
The Tottenham defender thought he had made amends shortly before halftime when he headed home Henderson's free-kick at the back post, but the linesman's flag was correctly raised for offside.
Much as was the case in the first half, England emerged from the dressing room brightly before suffering another blow. Wickham, introduced for Jason Lowe at the break, combined with Thomas Ince only for the Blackpool forward to shoot wide before Orjan Nyland did superbly to push away Henderson's powerful volley with one hand.
The Norwegians attacked with purpose, though, and extended their lead in some style. The impressive Pedersen strode past Dawson on the right and fired an inch-perfect cut-back into the feet of Eikrem, whose unstoppable shot rattled the underside of the crossbar on its way into the net.
Dawson converted from the spot after Semb Berge was penalized for holding the West Brom defender, but England created little thereafter in open play. Norway's progression to the semifinals will be all but secured if Italy beats Israel in the later kick-off but, ahead of the expiry of his contract at the end of the month, Pearce's future with the Young Lions now looks in serious doubt.
England has been knocked out of the European Under-21 Championship with one group stage match still to play after suffering a 3-1 defeat to Norway in Petah Tikva.
Stuart Pearce's side looked to have shrugged off the disappointment of its poor performance and defeat to Italy before Fredrik Semb Berge gave Norway the lead, and could not recover after falling behind.
Jo Inge Berget added a second goal before halftime and Tore Ole Skullerud's team was cruising when Magnus Wolff Eikrem put the game beyond doubt after the break.
Craig Dawson earned and converted a penalty five minutes later but England showed few signs of mounting a dramatic comeback in the remaining half hour.
Pearce was boosted by the returns of Wilfried Zaha from injury and Tom Ince and Danny Rose from suspension, so Connor Wickham, Marvin Sordell and Jack Robinson dropped out. Elsewhere, Nathaniel Chalobah replaced Jonjo Shelvey in midfield and Adam Smith came in for Nathaniel Clyne at right-back.
England started encouragingly and dominated possession in the early stages but Norway reminded the Young Lions of its threat on the counterattack when Omar Elabdellaoui burst forward from right back only to shoot high and wide of goal.
Pearce's team struggled, too, to defend set-pieces. After Jack Butland had flapped at one corner, Eikrem's next delivery from the left was only partially cleared and when the midfielder returned the ball to the England box, Semb Berge steered home a fine finish on the turn.
Steven Caulker was then caught between two Norway players outside the England area and when Nielsen picked out Berget's run with a clever lobbed pass, the Molde forward smashed a volley beyond Butland to leave the Young Lions on the brink.
The Tottenham defender thought he had made amends shortly before halftime when he headed home Henderson's free-kick at the back post, but the linesman's flag was correctly raised for offside.
Much as was the case in the first half, England emerged from the dressing room brightly before suffering another blow. Wickham, introduced for Jason Lowe at the break, combined with Thomas Ince only for the Blackpool forward to shoot wide before Orjan Nyland did superbly to push away Henderson's powerful volley with one hand.
The Norwegians attacked with purpose, though, and extended their lead in some style. The impressive Pedersen strode past Dawson on the right and fired an inch-perfect cut-back into the feet of Eikrem, whose unstoppable shot rattled the underside of the crossbar on its way into the net.
Dawson converted from the spot after Semb Berge was penalized for holding the West Brom defender, but England created little thereafter in open play. Norway's progression to the semifinals will be all but secured if Italy beats Israel in the later kick-off but, ahead of the expiry of his contract at the end of the month, Pearce's future with the Young Lions now looks in serious doubt.
Casillas: I've suffered from not playing
The Spain skipper admits he feels at a disadvantage to Pepe Reina and Victor Valdes having been out of regular action since the turn of the year.Iker Casillas believes he has suffered from a lack of playing time in recent months, claiming Pepe Reina and Victor Valdes have an advantage in the battle for the Spain No.1 spot.
The Roja captain played the first 45 minutes for his country in the 2-1 win over Haiti on Saturday and enjoyed a quiet first half in goal, before being replaced by Liverpool's Reina at the interval.
Having been out of action since January following a hand injury and a falling-out with former Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho, Casillas admits he faces a battle to keep his place for the up-coming Confederations Cups.
"I've been out about four months," the 32-year-old explained to reporters after the match. "After so long without playing I was both happy and nervous tonight.
"I see myself fighting from a spot from the start with a disadvantage to my peers, going up against Pepe and Victor. Not playing for long puts a dent in a player like me.
"Sometimes it's good to go through that, to appreciate it more when you play."
Casillas went on to play down suggestions of a spat with club-mate Alvaro Arbeloa after the defender backed former boss Mourinho in recent weeks, insisting the matter is water under the bridge for the time being.
"We have finished the season with Madrid, and now it's a new period with the Spain squad. Alvaro has his point of view and that must be respected.
"I don't have to talk further about him. The important thing is that I've returned to playing."
The Spain skipper admits he feels at a disadvantage to Pepe Reina and Victor Valdes having been out of regular action since the turn of the year.Iker Casillas believes he has suffered from a lack of playing time in recent months, claiming Pepe Reina and Victor Valdes have an advantage in the battle for the Spain No.1 spot.
The Roja captain played the first 45 minutes for his country in the 2-1 win over Haiti on Saturday and enjoyed a quiet first half in goal, before being replaced by Liverpool's Reina at the interval.
Having been out of action since January following a hand injury and a falling-out with former Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho, Casillas admits he faces a battle to keep his place for the up-coming Confederations Cups.
"I've been out about four months," the 32-year-old explained to reporters after the match. "After so long without playing I was both happy and nervous tonight.
"I see myself fighting from a spot from the start with a disadvantage to my peers, going up against Pepe and Victor. Not playing for long puts a dent in a player like me.
"Sometimes it's good to go through that, to appreciate it more when you play."
Casillas went on to play down suggestions of a spat with club-mate Alvaro Arbeloa after the defender backed former boss Mourinho in recent weeks, insisting the matter is water under the bridge for the time being.
"We have finished the season with Madrid, and now it's a new period with the Spain squad. Alvaro has his point of view and that must be respected.
"I don't have to talk further about him. The important thing is that I've returned to playing."
- Status
