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..::Football III::..
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Congo 0-2 South Africa: Quickfire strikes send Bafana Bafana top
South Africa moved top of Group A in Africa Cup of Nations qualifying with a 2-0 win over Congo in Pointe-Noire on Saturday.
Shakes Mashaba's side came into the clash two points behind their opponents after two group games, but have now leapfrogged Congo ahead of the reverse fixture in Polokwane on Wednesday.
Two goals in quick succession early in the second half from Bongani Ndulula and Tokelo Rantie gave Bafana Bafana the win, and the result leaves them in a strong position to reach the tournament proper in Morocco, which begins next January.
There was little sign of what was to come in the early stages as Congo made a bright start on the artificial surface, Ferebory Dore testing Senzo Meyiwa with a header from a corner in the eighth minute.
Thievy Bifouma brought another save out of Meyiwa with an improvised backheel, which the goalkeeper scrambled behind.
South Africa did not call Congo keeper Chancel Massa into action until the 39th minute, and when they did Mandla Masango's effort lacked sufficient power.
However, seven minutes after the break, the visitors edged ahead courtesy of Ndulula's superb finish.Thulani Hlatshwayo met a corner from the right with his head and, with the effort going wide, Ndulula executed a fine overhead finish, despite the best efforts of a defender on the line.
Two minutes later, Bafana Bafana doubled their advantage as Rantie controlled Dean Furman's precise pass and placed an assured strike into the top-left corner.
Prince Oniangue should have halved the deficit with 14 minutes remaining, but the midfielder lashed his close-range effort over the bar.
A frustrating day for Congo was summed up a minute before the end when Ladislas Douniama had a goal disallowed and South Africa survived five minutes of injury time to see out a crucial victory.
South Africa moved top of Group A in Africa Cup of Nations qualifying with a 2-0 win over Congo in Pointe-Noire on Saturday.
Shakes Mashaba's side came into the clash two points behind their opponents after two group games, but have now leapfrogged Congo ahead of the reverse fixture in Polokwane on Wednesday.
Two goals in quick succession early in the second half from Bongani Ndulula and Tokelo Rantie gave Bafana Bafana the win, and the result leaves them in a strong position to reach the tournament proper in Morocco, which begins next January.
There was little sign of what was to come in the early stages as Congo made a bright start on the artificial surface, Ferebory Dore testing Senzo Meyiwa with a header from a corner in the eighth minute.
Thievy Bifouma brought another save out of Meyiwa with an improvised backheel, which the goalkeeper scrambled behind.
South Africa did not call Congo keeper Chancel Massa into action until the 39th minute, and when they did Mandla Masango's effort lacked sufficient power.
However, seven minutes after the break, the visitors edged ahead courtesy of Ndulula's superb finish.Thulani Hlatshwayo met a corner from the right with his head and, with the effort going wide, Ndulula executed a fine overhead finish, despite the best efforts of a defender on the line.
Two minutes later, Bafana Bafana doubled their advantage as Rantie controlled Dean Furman's precise pass and placed an assured strike into the top-left corner.
Prince Oniangue should have halved the deficit with 14 minutes remaining, but the midfielder lashed his close-range effort over the bar.
A frustrating day for Congo was summed up a minute before the end when Ladislas Douniama had a goal disallowed and South Africa survived five minutes of injury time to see out a crucial victory.
Scotland 1-0 Georgia: Own goal enough for below-par hosts
An Akaki Khubutia own goal gave Scotland a narrow 1-0 win over Georgia in a Euro 2016 qualifier at Ibrox on Saturday.
Gordon Strachan's men came into the game on the back of a spirited 2-1 defeat to world champions Germany and Scotland again showed glimpses of real quality on Saturday.
They may have benefitted from a touch of fortune when they took the lead 28 minutes in, as Khubutia inadvertently diverted the ball into his own net following Shaun Maloney's strike.
However, it was no more than the home side deserved after a strong start and, while they failed to add to their advantage, Strachan's side were on top for long spells during the remainder of the game.
The defeat to Germany is now Scotland's only loss in eight games, while Khubutia's own goal extended Georgia's winless streak on the road to 20 competitive fixtures.
Strachan's only complaint is likely to be his side's lack of cutting edge up front - although there was a huge late let-off for the Scots when substitute Irakli Dzaria blasted wide when presented with a golden opportunity to equalise.
In a lively opening from both sides, it was Scotland who showed most signs of promise, although initially without threatening the Georgian goal.
The return of captain Scott Brown from injury added a degree of tenacity to their midfield and, with Scotland looking solid defensively, the likes of Maloney and Ikechi Anya impressed early on.
Steven Fletcher almost connected with full-back Andrew Robertson's delivery from the left after 23 minutes before the hosts' dominance paid off, albeit with a bit of luck.
When Giorgi Loria palmed away Maloney's fizzed effort from outside the area, the ball struck defender Khubutia on the back of the leg and found its way over the line.
The visitors rallied initially after going behind - Solomon Kverkvelia heading wide from a corner - but Brown almost made it 2-0 when his side-footed effort took a deflection and veered wide.
Strachan’s men were unable to extend their lead before the break but continued to dominate possession early in the second half, with the livewire Anya causing problems down both wings.
However, chances continued to be few and far between, with Temuri Ketsbaia's side happy to soak up Scottish pressure and try to hit their opponents on the counter-attack.
Their tactic almost paid off, too, when - after Steven Naismith had wastefully dragged Fletcher's backheel wide - Dzaria almost made Scotland pay for their profligacy.
After a quick break, Nikoloz Gelashvili laid the ball off to the midfielder, but he fired his effort off target from the edge of the area.
An Akaki Khubutia own goal gave Scotland a narrow 1-0 win over Georgia in a Euro 2016 qualifier at Ibrox on Saturday.
Gordon Strachan's men came into the game on the back of a spirited 2-1 defeat to world champions Germany and Scotland again showed glimpses of real quality on Saturday.
They may have benefitted from a touch of fortune when they took the lead 28 minutes in, as Khubutia inadvertently diverted the ball into his own net following Shaun Maloney's strike.
However, it was no more than the home side deserved after a strong start and, while they failed to add to their advantage, Strachan's side were on top for long spells during the remainder of the game.
The defeat to Germany is now Scotland's only loss in eight games, while Khubutia's own goal extended Georgia's winless streak on the road to 20 competitive fixtures.
Strachan's only complaint is likely to be his side's lack of cutting edge up front - although there was a huge late let-off for the Scots when substitute Irakli Dzaria blasted wide when presented with a golden opportunity to equalise.
In a lively opening from both sides, it was Scotland who showed most signs of promise, although initially without threatening the Georgian goal.
The return of captain Scott Brown from injury added a degree of tenacity to their midfield and, with Scotland looking solid defensively, the likes of Maloney and Ikechi Anya impressed early on.
Steven Fletcher almost connected with full-back Andrew Robertson's delivery from the left after 23 minutes before the hosts' dominance paid off, albeit with a bit of luck.
When Giorgi Loria palmed away Maloney's fizzed effort from outside the area, the ball struck defender Khubutia on the back of the leg and found its way over the line.
The visitors rallied initially after going behind - Solomon Kverkvelia heading wide from a corner - but Brown almost made it 2-0 when his side-footed effort took a deflection and veered wide.
Strachan’s men were unable to extend their lead before the break but continued to dominate possession early in the second half, with the livewire Anya causing problems down both wings.
However, chances continued to be few and far between, with Temuri Ketsbaia's side happy to soak up Scottish pressure and try to hit their opponents on the counter-attack.
Their tactic almost paid off, too, when - after Steven Naismith had wastefully dragged Fletcher's backheel wide - Dzaria almost made Scotland pay for their profligacy.
After a quick break, Nikoloz Gelashvili laid the ball off to the midfielder, but he fired his effort off target from the edge of the area.
Republic of Ireland 7-0 Gibraltar: Keane hat-trick sets up easy rout
Robbie Keane's 12-minute hat-trick set Republic of Ireland on their way to an emphatic 7-0 victory over Gibraltar in Dublin on Saturday.
Ireland's record goalscorer took his tally to 65 inside the opening 18 minutes to avoid any build-up of pressure and become the all-time leading scorer in European Championship qualifiers with 21 goals.
Keane is the first man to claim three international hat-tricks for Ireland and his early strikes gave Martin O'Neill's men complete control of the Group D clash.
James McClean grabbed a brace and Wes Hoolahan was also on target following an own goal from Gibraltar goalkeeper Jordan Perez as the hosts pulled further clear in the early stages of the second half.
O'Neill's men are set to face a much sterner test on Tuesday, when they face world champions Germany in Gelsenkirchen, but will surely be content with the manner in which they eased to a second win from as many qualifying matches.
Ireland were missing the injured Seamus Coleman and James McCarthy but set the tone early as Aiden McGeady and McClean attacked their opposition full-backs.
The hosts had to wait just six minutes for the opening goal, Hoolahan and McGeady taking advantage of a poor clearance by Perez to tee up Keane for a tap-in from six yards.
Eight minutes later it was two, as Hoolahan chested down and volleyed a well-weighted through ball that caught out Gibraltar captain Roy Chipolina and allowed Keane to advance on goal and finish from 15 yards.
Hoolahan was again involved as Keane completed his hat-trick on 18 minutes. The Norwich man was felled by Perez, after Keane had a shot cleared off the line, and the skipper made no mistake with the resulting penalty.
With a three-goal cushion established, there was a drop in the pace and purpose of Ireland's play.
Perez was kept busy and produced a couple of smart reflex saves, including one to deny McGeady from inside the box on his left foot after 35 minutes.
However, Ireland emerged with added impetus after the break and increased their lead within a minute of the restart as neat passing put Keane in again before he squared for McClean to pass into an empty net.
Perez's afternoon got worse in the 51st minute as he deflected one of his defender's clearances off the line into his own net.
McClean claimed his second two minutes later, pouncing on a Perez parry, and it was soon seven as Hoolahan punished more dreadful, deep defending.
Perez was spared further punishment as he was substituted and his replacement, Jamie Robba, managed to avoid conceding, thanks largely to a terrific late stop that denied McGeady.
Robbie Keane's 12-minute hat-trick set Republic of Ireland on their way to an emphatic 7-0 victory over Gibraltar in Dublin on Saturday.
Ireland's record goalscorer took his tally to 65 inside the opening 18 minutes to avoid any build-up of pressure and become the all-time leading scorer in European Championship qualifiers with 21 goals.
Keane is the first man to claim three international hat-tricks for Ireland and his early strikes gave Martin O'Neill's men complete control of the Group D clash.
James McClean grabbed a brace and Wes Hoolahan was also on target following an own goal from Gibraltar goalkeeper Jordan Perez as the hosts pulled further clear in the early stages of the second half.
O'Neill's men are set to face a much sterner test on Tuesday, when they face world champions Germany in Gelsenkirchen, but will surely be content with the manner in which they eased to a second win from as many qualifying matches.
Ireland were missing the injured Seamus Coleman and James McCarthy but set the tone early as Aiden McGeady and McClean attacked their opposition full-backs.
The hosts had to wait just six minutes for the opening goal, Hoolahan and McGeady taking advantage of a poor clearance by Perez to tee up Keane for a tap-in from six yards.
Eight minutes later it was two, as Hoolahan chested down and volleyed a well-weighted through ball that caught out Gibraltar captain Roy Chipolina and allowed Keane to advance on goal and finish from 15 yards.
Hoolahan was again involved as Keane completed his hat-trick on 18 minutes. The Norwich man was felled by Perez, after Keane had a shot cleared off the line, and the skipper made no mistake with the resulting penalty.
With a three-goal cushion established, there was a drop in the pace and purpose of Ireland's play.
Perez was kept busy and produced a couple of smart reflex saves, including one to deny McGeady from inside the box on his left foot after 35 minutes.
However, Ireland emerged with added impetus after the break and increased their lead within a minute of the restart as neat passing put Keane in again before he squared for McClean to pass into an empty net.
Perez's afternoon got worse in the 51st minute as he deflected one of his defender's clearances off the line into his own net.
McClean claimed his second two minutes later, pouncing on a Perez parry, and it was soon seven as Hoolahan punished more dreadful, deep defending.
Perez was spared further punishment as he was substituted and his replacement, Jamie Robba, managed to avoid conceding, thanks largely to a terrific late stop that denied McGeady.
Brazil 2-0 Argentina: Tardelli makes Messi pay for penalty miss
Diego Tardelli was the surprise hero after his two goals fired Brazil to a 2-0 Super Clasico victory over Argentina in Beijing, who were made to pay for Lionel Messi's first half penalty miss.
The 29-year-old is Dunga's chosen replacement for Fred, following Brazil's woeful World Cup elimination and the striker opened his international account at the Bird's Nest Stadium in Beijing.Brazil took the lead against the run of play after 28 minutes when Tardelli scored his first Brazil goal - volleying home from inside the area after questionable Argentina defending.
Neither Pablo Zabaleta nor Federico Fernandez could clear Oscar's cross, with Tardelli taking full advantage, scoring more than five years after making his international bow to send Argentina on their way to a first defeat under Gerardo Martino.
Lionel Messi spurned the chance to draw Martino's men level before the break, his penalty saved by Jefferson, and Tardelli put the game beyond doubt with a second after 64 minutes.
The Atletico Mineiro man headed in from close range as he bolstered his claim to lead Brazil's line ahead of the Copa America in Chile next year, wrapping up a third consecutive Superclasico in the process.
Argentina started the brighter, with Sergio Aguero seeing an early penalty shout turned down when he went down under a challenge from Miranda.With Martino's men continuing to dominate in the early stages, Angel di Maria fired over the crossbar following clever link-up play with Erik Lamela.
However, Brazil began to grow into the game shortly before the half-hour mark and took the lead through Tardelli's smart volley.
When Zabaleta and Fernandez failed to clear Oscar's delivery, Tardelli peeled away and fired home the loose ball unmarked, with Sergio Romero not doing enough to keep it out.Neymar spurned an opportunity to level when one-on-one with Romero before Messi missed the chance to send Argentina in level at the interval.
Danilo was rather harshly adjudged to have brought down Di Maria but Messi saw his penalty saved by Jefferson with Marcos Rojo failing to divert the follow-up home.
Filipe Luis blazed Neymar's clever pass over the crossbar before Di Maria was uncharacteristically pedestrian when through on goal after Miranda lost possession - allowing the Atletico Madrid centre-back time to recover.
As in the first half, Argentina soon began to dominate possession but conceded against the run of play when Tardelli added his second shortly after the hour mark.
When David Luiz flicked on Oscar's corner, Tardelli was again unmarked as he stooped to head his second of the game and wrap up a third win from as many games under Dunga.
Tardelli was replaced by the returning Kaka, who made his first appearance since March 2013, having helped continue Brazil's positive start to Dunga's second tenure in charge while also leaving Martino with plenty to ponder.
Diego Tardelli was the surprise hero after his two goals fired Brazil to a 2-0 Super Clasico victory over Argentina in Beijing, who were made to pay for Lionel Messi's first half penalty miss.
The 29-year-old is Dunga's chosen replacement for Fred, following Brazil's woeful World Cup elimination and the striker opened his international account at the Bird's Nest Stadium in Beijing.Brazil took the lead against the run of play after 28 minutes when Tardelli scored his first Brazil goal - volleying home from inside the area after questionable Argentina defending.
Neither Pablo Zabaleta nor Federico Fernandez could clear Oscar's cross, with Tardelli taking full advantage, scoring more than five years after making his international bow to send Argentina on their way to a first defeat under Gerardo Martino.
Lionel Messi spurned the chance to draw Martino's men level before the break, his penalty saved by Jefferson, and Tardelli put the game beyond doubt with a second after 64 minutes.
The Atletico Mineiro man headed in from close range as he bolstered his claim to lead Brazil's line ahead of the Copa America in Chile next year, wrapping up a third consecutive Superclasico in the process.
Argentina started the brighter, with Sergio Aguero seeing an early penalty shout turned down when he went down under a challenge from Miranda.With Martino's men continuing to dominate in the early stages, Angel di Maria fired over the crossbar following clever link-up play with Erik Lamela.
However, Brazil began to grow into the game shortly before the half-hour mark and took the lead through Tardelli's smart volley.
When Zabaleta and Fernandez failed to clear Oscar's delivery, Tardelli peeled away and fired home the loose ball unmarked, with Sergio Romero not doing enough to keep it out.Neymar spurned an opportunity to level when one-on-one with Romero before Messi missed the chance to send Argentina in level at the interval.
Danilo was rather harshly adjudged to have brought down Di Maria but Messi saw his penalty saved by Jefferson with Marcos Rojo failing to divert the follow-up home.
Filipe Luis blazed Neymar's clever pass over the crossbar before Di Maria was uncharacteristically pedestrian when through on goal after Miranda lost possession - allowing the Atletico Madrid centre-back time to recover.
As in the first half, Argentina soon began to dominate possession but conceded against the run of play when Tardelli added his second shortly after the hour mark.
When David Luiz flicked on Oscar's corner, Tardelli was again unmarked as he stooped to head his second of the game and wrap up a third win from as many games under Dunga.
Tardelli was replaced by the returning Kaka, who made his first appearance since March 2013, having helped continue Brazil's positive start to Dunga's second tenure in charge while also leaving Martino with plenty to ponder.
Chile 3-0 Peru: Bravo breaks record as Vargas stars
Claudio Bravo's record-breaking Chile appearance was a successful one as his side claimed a 3-0 win over Peru on Friday.The Barcelona goalkeeper became the nation's most capped player with 85, and he kept a clean sheet at the Estadio Elias Figueroa Brander.
Eduardo Vargas netted a brace for Jorge Sampaoli's impressive side, while Gary Medel was also on the scoresheet in Valparaiso.Rinaldo Cruzado was sent off late in the first half for Peru, who had Paolo Guerrero miss a penalty when the clash was goalless.
It was a much-needed return to form for Chile after a goalless draw against Mexico and scrappy win over Haiti post-World Cup.Bravo's record was acknowledged pre-game and he was first tested by Yoshimar Yotun's long-range effort, but it was a comfortable save.
Alexis Sanchez had forced Peru keeper Raul Fernandez into a save down low to his right with a free-kick from range moments earlier.Arturo Vidal curled an effort wide from just inside the area after a great run from the impressive Sanchez.But Peru would get the best opportunity to open the scoring midway through the first half.
Jean Beausejour fouled Carlos Ascues as the latter prepared to shoot, but Guerrero sent the spot-kick wide of Bravo's left post.Just six minutes later and the visitors would be punished.
Sanchez's lovely chipped pass found Vargas' run from deep and the Napoli forward, on loan at QPR, volleyed in as Fernandez advanced and despite the best efforts of a defender on the line.
Medel doubled Chile's lead in the 34th minute, glancing a header into the bottom corner from Charles Aranguiz's set-piece.Tensions threatened to boil over when a tackle from Carlos Zambrano on Sanchez sent the Arsenal attacker flying into the advertising boards on the wing.
And, soon after, Cruzado saw red for elbowing Medel in the face in an off-the-ball incident.Chile were largely untroubled and made it 3-0 in the 53rd minute.
Sanchez found the overlapping Mauricio Isla down the right and latter's cross found Vargas to volley in from inside the area.After all his creativity, Sanchez almost got on the scoresheet late on as his free-kick from the left crashed against the crossbar.
Chile had no problems in the second half as their preparations for the 2015 Copa America continued in style.
Claudio Bravo's record-breaking Chile appearance was a successful one as his side claimed a 3-0 win over Peru on Friday.The Barcelona goalkeeper became the nation's most capped player with 85, and he kept a clean sheet at the Estadio Elias Figueroa Brander.
Eduardo Vargas netted a brace for Jorge Sampaoli's impressive side, while Gary Medel was also on the scoresheet in Valparaiso.Rinaldo Cruzado was sent off late in the first half for Peru, who had Paolo Guerrero miss a penalty when the clash was goalless.
It was a much-needed return to form for Chile after a goalless draw against Mexico and scrappy win over Haiti post-World Cup.Bravo's record was acknowledged pre-game and he was first tested by Yoshimar Yotun's long-range effort, but it was a comfortable save.
Alexis Sanchez had forced Peru keeper Raul Fernandez into a save down low to his right with a free-kick from range moments earlier.Arturo Vidal curled an effort wide from just inside the area after a great run from the impressive Sanchez.But Peru would get the best opportunity to open the scoring midway through the first half.
Jean Beausejour fouled Carlos Ascues as the latter prepared to shoot, but Guerrero sent the spot-kick wide of Bravo's left post.Just six minutes later and the visitors would be punished.
Sanchez's lovely chipped pass found Vargas' run from deep and the Napoli forward, on loan at QPR, volleyed in as Fernandez advanced and despite the best efforts of a defender on the line.
Medel doubled Chile's lead in the 34th minute, glancing a header into the bottom corner from Charles Aranguiz's set-piece.Tensions threatened to boil over when a tackle from Carlos Zambrano on Sanchez sent the Arsenal attacker flying into the advertising boards on the wing.
And, soon after, Cruzado saw red for elbowing Medel in the face in an off-the-ball incident.Chile were largely untroubled and made it 3-0 in the 53rd minute.
Sanchez found the overlapping Mauricio Isla down the right and latter's cross found Vargas to volley in from inside the area.After all his creativity, Sanchez almost got on the scoresheet late on as his free-kick from the left crashed against the crossbar.
Chile had no problems in the second half as their preparations for the 2015 Copa America continued in style.
Colombia 3-0 El Salvador: Falcao makes goalscoring return
Radamel Falcao scored in his first international start in almost a year as Colombia beat El Salvador 3-0 in New York on Friday.
Falcao had not started for Jose Pekerman's side since November 19 last year, when Colombia played out a goalless draw against Netherlands, after damaging his anterior crucial ligament while playing for Monaco in the Coupe de France in January.The serious knee injury forced Falcao to withdraw from Colombia's World Cup campaign but the 28-year-old striker made his long-awaited return start in typical fashion.
Falcao - wearing the captain's armband - rose highest to head home a seventh-minute opener at Red Bull Arena - becoming Colombia's second all-time leading goalscorer with 21 in 52 appearances.
Strike partner Carlos Bacca bagged a quick-fire brace in the second half as Colombia outclassed their opponents to end a two-game losing streak.Colombia were dominant from the outset, pinning El Salvador into their own half for most of the opening stanza in New York.
And it took just seven minutes for the Colombians to turn their possession into goals, with captain Falcao breaking the deadlock.Falcao, who scored his first Manchester United goal last week, got on the end of an inch-perfect cross from Santiago Arias, directing a powerful header past El Salvador goalkeeper Henry Hernandez.
While Colombia were clearly superior, El Salvador, however, did have a good opportunity to draw level five minutes before half-time through Marvin Monterrosa.Monterrosa made a darting run, unmarked, between two defenders but Arias made a last-ditch block as Colombia preserved their lead at the break.
Bacca netted two goals in as many minutes as Colombia continued where they left off in the second half.The Sevilla striker scored his first following a goal-line scramble after two initial efforts were blocked in the 49th minute.
And Bacca was at it again two minutes later, tapping home from inside the six-yard box after Falcao poked the ball into his path.
Radamel Falcao scored in his first international start in almost a year as Colombia beat El Salvador 3-0 in New York on Friday.
Falcao had not started for Jose Pekerman's side since November 19 last year, when Colombia played out a goalless draw against Netherlands, after damaging his anterior crucial ligament while playing for Monaco in the Coupe de France in January.The serious knee injury forced Falcao to withdraw from Colombia's World Cup campaign but the 28-year-old striker made his long-awaited return start in typical fashion.
Falcao - wearing the captain's armband - rose highest to head home a seventh-minute opener at Red Bull Arena - becoming Colombia's second all-time leading goalscorer with 21 in 52 appearances.
Strike partner Carlos Bacca bagged a quick-fire brace in the second half as Colombia outclassed their opponents to end a two-game losing streak.Colombia were dominant from the outset, pinning El Salvador into their own half for most of the opening stanza in New York.
And it took just seven minutes for the Colombians to turn their possession into goals, with captain Falcao breaking the deadlock.Falcao, who scored his first Manchester United goal last week, got on the end of an inch-perfect cross from Santiago Arias, directing a powerful header past El Salvador goalkeeper Henry Hernandez.
While Colombia were clearly superior, El Salvador, however, did have a good opportunity to draw level five minutes before half-time through Marvin Monterrosa.Monterrosa made a darting run, unmarked, between two defenders but Arias made a last-ditch block as Colombia preserved their lead at the break.
Bacca netted two goals in as many minutes as Colombia continued where they left off in the second half.The Sevilla striker scored his first following a goal-line scramble after two initial efforts were blocked in the 49th minute.
And Bacca was at it again two minutes later, tapping home from inside the six-yard box after Falcao poked the ball into his path.
Guinea 1-1 Ghana: Late Traore strike rescues point
Ibrahima Traore salvaged a point for Guinea as they fought-back to draw 1-1 with Ghana in their African Cup of Nations qualifier in Morocco.
Asamoah Gyan's first-half strike had appeared to be enough to earn Maxwell Konadu's unbeaten side all three points in a game that was relocated amid the Ebola outbreak in Guinea.But Guniea captain Traore led by example - the Borussia Monchengladbach midfielder levelling with a sublime curling effort in the 80th minute.
What had been a rather tepid affair suddenly had a thrilling climax, with both sides pushing hard for a winner.Celtic winger Wakaso Mubarak had a shot parried away by Guinea goalkeeper Naby-Moussa Yattara before Traore again went close with another long-range shot.
Guinea were without one of their key performers Alhassane Bangoura - the speedy Rayo Vallecano winger having withdrawn from the squad due to concerns over the Ebola crisis.
And his presence was severely missed, with his replacement Seydouba Soumah failing to convert a gilt-edged chance when he headed wide from close range.
However, coach Michel Dussuyer will be proud of his Guinea side's determined performance, bouncing back from their 2-0 loss to Uganda last time out.
Ibrahima Traore salvaged a point for Guinea as they fought-back to draw 1-1 with Ghana in their African Cup of Nations qualifier in Morocco.
Asamoah Gyan's first-half strike had appeared to be enough to earn Maxwell Konadu's unbeaten side all three points in a game that was relocated amid the Ebola outbreak in Guinea.But Guniea captain Traore led by example - the Borussia Monchengladbach midfielder levelling with a sublime curling effort in the 80th minute.
What had been a rather tepid affair suddenly had a thrilling climax, with both sides pushing hard for a winner.Celtic winger Wakaso Mubarak had a shot parried away by Guinea goalkeeper Naby-Moussa Yattara before Traore again went close with another long-range shot.
Guinea were without one of their key performers Alhassane Bangoura - the speedy Rayo Vallecano winger having withdrawn from the squad due to concerns over the Ebola crisis.
And his presence was severely missed, with his replacement Seydouba Soumah failing to convert a gilt-edged chance when he headed wide from close range.
However, coach Michel Dussuyer will be proud of his Guinea side's determined performance, bouncing back from their 2-0 loss to Uganda last time out.
Poland 2-0 Germany: World champions suffer shock defeat
Arkadiusz Milik and Sebastian Mila grabbed the goals as Poland picked up a surprise 2-0 win in Warsaw against Germany their Euro 2016 qualifying clash.
A lacklustre showing from the world champions, who had laboured to a narrow 2-1 win over Scotland in their Group D opener, allowed Poland to clinch the points, as Joachim Low's men were beaten in competitive action for the first time in 19 outings.
Having failed to threaten with any regularity during Saturday's first half, Germany fell behind to Poland's first effort on target early in the second period when Milik headed home from inside the area.The Ajax man, on loan from Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen, was later withdrawn to a rapturous ovation from the home crowd and, despite some tense moments for the hosts at the Stadion Narodowy, his replacement, Mila, wrapped up the win with two minutes left.
Seeking to extend a competitive unbeaten run that had stretched back to Euro 2012, Germany threw caution to the wind late on.
However, it was to no avail as Poland picked up their first victory over Germany since unification to move top of the group, leaving Low with work to do in finessing his relatively new-look side.
Thomas Muller had the first attempt of the game, when his shot from distance was kept out by Wojciech Szczesny after 11 minutes of a fairly low-key opening.
Muller's Bayern Munich team-mate Robert Lewandowski then saw his half-hearted penalty appeals waved away after a tangle with Germany defender Antonio Rudiger.
Mats Hummels got his head on Toni Kroos' free-kick after 22 minutes but saw his effort blocked and, with both sides careless in possession, neither was able to get on top.Lewandowski appeared to be offside when he threatened Manuel Neuer's goal following a curled Kamil Grosicki free-kick.Germany ended the first half stronger, with Karim Bellarabi passing up two opportunities to open the scoring and ensure a debut goal.
First, he sidefooted Rudiger's cross wide of the target, before the Bayer Leverkusen man cut inside his marker when through on goal, only to fire a tame effort at Szczesny.
While Germany ended the first half in control, they started the second slowly and were made to pay after 51 minutes when an unmarked Milik glanced Lukasz Piszczek's cross past Neuer - with the Bayern goalkeeper failing to make contact with the ball as he came to clear.That provoked a reaction from Low's men, with Andre Schurrle and Erik Durm both forcing saves from Szczesny shortly after the hour mark.
Poland-born Lukas Podolski, introduced off the bench, crashed a late strike off the crossbar, but it was a Poland substitute who ultimately put the result beyond doubt.
Lewandowski selflessly played in Mila, who was free in the centre after a quick break, and the Slask Wroclaw man finished well to spark jubilant Polish scenes both on the touchline and in the stands.
France 2-1 Portugal: Pogba and Benzema on target for Les Bleus
France stretched their winning run against Portugal to nine matches with a 2-1 friendly victory on Saturday.
The Euro 2016 hosts have not failed to beat Portugal since 1975 and the signs looked ominous from the off for the visitors in the Stade de France.Karim Benzema opened the scoring in the third minute when he reacted quickest after Portugal failed to clear their lines from an Antoine Griezmann cross.
Portugal – under the stewardship of Fernando Santos for the first time – fought their way back into the match after a shaky start, but struggled to find their way through a resolute home defence.
Cristiano Ronaldo came closest to an equaliser early in the second half, but Steve Mandanda - making his first France outing since suffering a serious neck injury that ruled him out of the World Cup - got down brilliantly to his right to keep out the header.Paul Pogba's tidy finish then doubled France's advantage in the 69th minute, before Ricardo Quaresma scored his side's only goal from the penalty spot.
Santos, who will begin an eight-match touchline ban in Tuesday's Euro 2016 qualifier with Denmark, made six changes to the side that lost 1-0 to Albania in Portugal's opening Group I game, with captain Ronaldo back in the XI after missing that match through injury.However, the Real Madrid forward's return failed to have an instant impact on his side's fortunes, as another Santiago Bernabeu marksman broke the deadlock.
Griezmann's cross from the left rolled all the way through for Bacary Sagna, whose powerful shot was parried to an unmarked Benzema – the 26-year-old calmly touching the ball home from close range.Griezmann tormented the Portugal defence in the early stages and it took an assured stop from Rui Patricio to keep out the Atletico Madrid man's effort with the outside of his boot five minutes later.
Portugal started to find their rhythm as the half progressed, but Nani pulled a left-footed effort wide of the post, before Andre Gomes blasted a shot high and wide after a clever turn on the edge of the box.Having watched Tiago come out of international retirement to take his place in the starting XI, Ricardo Carvalho came off the bench at half-time to make his first Portugal appearance in more than three years.
And Portugal almost pulled level six minutes after the break when a Ronaldo header drew a superb diving save from Mandanda – in for Hugo Lloris, who was only fit enough for the bench after picking up a minor injury.France seemingly put the game to bed in the 69th minute, when Pogba side-footed into the bottom right-hand corner from a Benzema pass, following good work from Patrice Evra along the byline.
Blaise Matuidi should have made it 3-0 less then a minute later, but his left-footed shot curled agonisingly wide of the target.Ronaldo saw a 74th-minute strike deflect wide off clubmate Raphael Varane, and accused the defender of handball before being withdrawn for Joao Mario.
The skipper's replacement was then caught by Pogba in the box and, with Ronaldo no longer available to step up to the mark, Quaresma duly converted, though it proved to be merely a consolation for Portugal.
France stretched their winning run against Portugal to nine matches with a 2-1 friendly victory on Saturday.
The Euro 2016 hosts have not failed to beat Portugal since 1975 and the signs looked ominous from the off for the visitors in the Stade de France.Karim Benzema opened the scoring in the third minute when he reacted quickest after Portugal failed to clear their lines from an Antoine Griezmann cross.
Portugal – under the stewardship of Fernando Santos for the first time – fought their way back into the match after a shaky start, but struggled to find their way through a resolute home defence.
Cristiano Ronaldo came closest to an equaliser early in the second half, but Steve Mandanda - making his first France outing since suffering a serious neck injury that ruled him out of the World Cup - got down brilliantly to his right to keep out the header.Paul Pogba's tidy finish then doubled France's advantage in the 69th minute, before Ricardo Quaresma scored his side's only goal from the penalty spot.
Santos, who will begin an eight-match touchline ban in Tuesday's Euro 2016 qualifier with Denmark, made six changes to the side that lost 1-0 to Albania in Portugal's opening Group I game, with captain Ronaldo back in the XI after missing that match through injury.However, the Real Madrid forward's return failed to have an instant impact on his side's fortunes, as another Santiago Bernabeu marksman broke the deadlock.
Griezmann's cross from the left rolled all the way through for Bacary Sagna, whose powerful shot was parried to an unmarked Benzema – the 26-year-old calmly touching the ball home from close range.Griezmann tormented the Portugal defence in the early stages and it took an assured stop from Rui Patricio to keep out the Atletico Madrid man's effort with the outside of his boot five minutes later.
Portugal started to find their rhythm as the half progressed, but Nani pulled a left-footed effort wide of the post, before Andre Gomes blasted a shot high and wide after a clever turn on the edge of the box.Having watched Tiago come out of international retirement to take his place in the starting XI, Ricardo Carvalho came off the bench at half-time to make his first Portugal appearance in more than three years.
And Portugal almost pulled level six minutes after the break when a Ronaldo header drew a superb diving save from Mandanda – in for Hugo Lloris, who was only fit enough for the bench after picking up a minor injury.France seemingly put the game to bed in the 69th minute, when Pogba side-footed into the bottom right-hand corner from a Benzema pass, following good work from Patrice Evra along the byline.
Blaise Matuidi should have made it 3-0 less then a minute later, but his left-footed shot curled agonisingly wide of the target.Ronaldo saw a 74th-minute strike deflect wide off clubmate Raphael Varane, and accused the defender of handball before being withdrawn for Joao Mario.
The skipper's replacement was then caught by Pogba in the box and, with Ronaldo no longer available to step up to the mark, Quaresma duly converted, though it proved to be merely a consolation for Portugal.
Northern Ireland 2-0 Faroe Islands: Early goals help maintain 100% record
Northern Ireland have made their best start to a qualifying campaign in 46 years after beating Faroe Islands 2-0 in Belfast on Saturday.
Goals from Gareth McAuley and Kyle Lafferty in the opening 20 minutes put Northern Ireland in control of their latest Euro 2016 qualifier at Windsor Park.
The Faroe Islands spurned a chance to halve their deficit when Frodi Benjaminsen's penalty was superbly saved by Roy Carroll.
Yet there were few further problems for the hosts, who last opened up with successive qualifying wins in 1968, as they followed up an impressive triumph in Hungary last month with another three points to move top of Group F.
Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill was dealt a blow in the lead-up to the game when Chris Brunt (groin) joined Jonny Evans on the sidelines.
O'Neill responded with a positive change, however, bringing in the attack-minded Shane Ferguson, and the bold selection was rewarded as his team played on the front foot from the first whistle.
Northern Ireland seemed to pick up right where they left off in Hungary, pressuring their opponents all over the field and winning two early corners
It was from the second of those set-pieces that McAuley broke the deadlock on six minutes, as he volleyed in at the back post after Chris Baird had arched his neck to flick on Oliver Norwood's corner.
The hosts almost doubled the lead seven minutes later. Ferguson cut in from the left and sent in a teasing right-foot cross that Lafferty met on the volley, but the forward couldn't make a good enough contact to test the goalkeeper from six yards.
The same pair combined again in the 20th minute and this time the result was a second goal. Once again Ferguson worked the ball onto his right foot and on this occasion Lafferty was able to get across his man and apply a deft flick to turn the ball in at the front post.
Lafferty spurned two headed opportunities as Northern Ireland continued to dominate.
The visitors were handed an unlikely route back into the game 10 minutes before the break, however, when Ferguson was adjudged to have pulled back Johan Edmundsson when chasing a long ball, and a penalty was given.
Benjaminsen stepped up to take the spot-kick, but Carroll produced a fabulous save diving to his left, clawing the ball onto the post with his right hand.
There was little in the way of goalmouth action after the break as Northern Ireland eased to victory.
Conor McLaughlin had a great chance to extend his side's lead when a loose ball fell at his feet eight yards from goal, but the defender scuffed his finish harmlessly wide.
The miss did not prove costly and Northern Ireland will now visit Greece for their next qualifier in high spirits.
Northern Ireland have made their best start to a qualifying campaign in 46 years after beating Faroe Islands 2-0 in Belfast on Saturday.
Goals from Gareth McAuley and Kyle Lafferty in the opening 20 minutes put Northern Ireland in control of their latest Euro 2016 qualifier at Windsor Park.
The Faroe Islands spurned a chance to halve their deficit when Frodi Benjaminsen's penalty was superbly saved by Roy Carroll.
Yet there were few further problems for the hosts, who last opened up with successive qualifying wins in 1968, as they followed up an impressive triumph in Hungary last month with another three points to move top of Group F.
Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill was dealt a blow in the lead-up to the game when Chris Brunt (groin) joined Jonny Evans on the sidelines.
O'Neill responded with a positive change, however, bringing in the attack-minded Shane Ferguson, and the bold selection was rewarded as his team played on the front foot from the first whistle.
Northern Ireland seemed to pick up right where they left off in Hungary, pressuring their opponents all over the field and winning two early corners
It was from the second of those set-pieces that McAuley broke the deadlock on six minutes, as he volleyed in at the back post after Chris Baird had arched his neck to flick on Oliver Norwood's corner.
The hosts almost doubled the lead seven minutes later. Ferguson cut in from the left and sent in a teasing right-foot cross that Lafferty met on the volley, but the forward couldn't make a good enough contact to test the goalkeeper from six yards.
The same pair combined again in the 20th minute and this time the result was a second goal. Once again Ferguson worked the ball onto his right foot and on this occasion Lafferty was able to get across his man and apply a deft flick to turn the ball in at the front post.
Lafferty spurned two headed opportunities as Northern Ireland continued to dominate.
The visitors were handed an unlikely route back into the game 10 minutes before the break, however, when Ferguson was adjudged to have pulled back Johan Edmundsson when chasing a long ball, and a penalty was given.
Benjaminsen stepped up to take the spot-kick, but Carroll produced a fabulous save diving to his left, clawing the ball onto the post with his right hand.
There was little in the way of goalmouth action after the break as Northern Ireland eased to victory.
Conor McLaughlin had a great chance to extend his side's lead when a loose ball fell at his feet eight yards from goal, but the defender scuffed his finish harmlessly wide.
The miss did not prove costly and Northern Ireland will now visit Greece for their next qualifier in high spirits.
Messi: Mistakes cost us against Brazil
Lionel Messi was left to rue Argentina’s defensive errors as his team went down 2-0 to Brazil in the Gillette Superclasico de las Americas at the Bird’s Nest Stadium in Beijing on Saturday.
Brazil striker Diego Tardelli scored both goals of the game, first capatalising on a mishap from Federico Fernandez and Pablo Zabaleta to volley the Selecao into the lead and then finding himself unmarked to convert a second-half corner.
Messi himself missed the opportunity to draw level when his penalty was saved by Jefferson shortly before the break.
"The match was decided by two of our mistakes," Messi said."First for the first goal and then I failed from a penalty."The match in China was new coach Gerardo Martino’s first with his own squad, after he led Argentina to a 4-2 victory over Germany last month with the same squad that finished runners-up at the World Cup.
And Messi says the Albiceleste are still in a state of transition."The team is going through a process of change, with a new coach who has a different ideas than the one before," he said.
"We are trying new things and that requires time, practice and games. Little by little the team will provide what Martino wants."
Lionel Messi was left to rue Argentina’s defensive errors as his team went down 2-0 to Brazil in the Gillette Superclasico de las Americas at the Bird’s Nest Stadium in Beijing on Saturday.
Brazil striker Diego Tardelli scored both goals of the game, first capatalising on a mishap from Federico Fernandez and Pablo Zabaleta to volley the Selecao into the lead and then finding himself unmarked to convert a second-half corner.
Messi himself missed the opportunity to draw level when his penalty was saved by Jefferson shortly before the break.
"The match was decided by two of our mistakes," Messi said."First for the first goal and then I failed from a penalty."The match in China was new coach Gerardo Martino’s first with his own squad, after he led Argentina to a 4-2 victory over Germany last month with the same squad that finished runners-up at the World Cup.
And Messi says the Albiceleste are still in a state of transition."The team is going through a process of change, with a new coach who has a different ideas than the one before," he said.
"We are trying new things and that requires time, practice and games. Little by little the team will provide what Martino wants."
Pique: Catalans have right to decide on independence
Gerard Pique has insisted that the Catalan region has the right to decide if it wants independence but has denied he is rooting for a split from Spain .
The centre-back, who has 61 caps for la Roja, was born and raised in Barcelona and has gone on to become a key component of the Camp Nou club as well as Spain, winning every trophy possible for club and country.
He caused quite a stir in midweek after declaring his support for the referendum to vote on Catalan independence on November 9 - which the Spanish government is trying to block - but he has stressed that does not affect his commitment to Vicente del Bosque's European champions.
"I defend the right of the Catalan people to express themselves," he told reporters in a press conference ahead of Sunday's European Championship qualifier against Luxembourg. "It’s a democratic right.
"That’s on one hand, the other is that I’ve always enjoyed playing for Spain and am totally committed. If they will want me to come to play for the national team, I’m delighted to be involved."Barca, came out in support of the right for the citizens of Catalan to vote for independence on Friday.
Away from Catalan independence issues, Spain suffered a shock 2-1 defeat to Slovakia on Thursday which was their first qualification loss since 2006.Iker Casillas was pinpointed as a weak point by many, but Pique does not believe blaming the Real Madrid goalkeeper is fair, instead suggesting that they were victims of bad luck in midweek.
"No-one can doubt that Casillas is a great professional and team-mate, one of the best in goal in the world," the defender added. "It was just that the other day nothing went right for the team."We’re in what was considered to be an easy group, but the defeat is a set-back. Fortunately, we have time to amend things.
"Sadly, some players retired from the team and changes had to be made. The coach now has to find the way to put things right. Of course, we wanted to beat Slovakia and I think the team played well.
"We had the ball, we controlled the game. The opposition had just three or four chances throughout the whole game. There’s no need to over-dramatise."
Gerard Pique has insisted that the Catalan region has the right to decide if it wants independence but has denied he is rooting for a split from Spain .
The centre-back, who has 61 caps for la Roja, was born and raised in Barcelona and has gone on to become a key component of the Camp Nou club as well as Spain, winning every trophy possible for club and country.
He caused quite a stir in midweek after declaring his support for the referendum to vote on Catalan independence on November 9 - which the Spanish government is trying to block - but he has stressed that does not affect his commitment to Vicente del Bosque's European champions.
"I defend the right of the Catalan people to express themselves," he told reporters in a press conference ahead of Sunday's European Championship qualifier against Luxembourg. "It’s a democratic right.
"That’s on one hand, the other is that I’ve always enjoyed playing for Spain and am totally committed. If they will want me to come to play for the national team, I’m delighted to be involved."Barca, came out in support of the right for the citizens of Catalan to vote for independence on Friday.
Away from Catalan independence issues, Spain suffered a shock 2-1 defeat to Slovakia on Thursday which was their first qualification loss since 2006.Iker Casillas was pinpointed as a weak point by many, but Pique does not believe blaming the Real Madrid goalkeeper is fair, instead suggesting that they were victims of bad luck in midweek.
"No-one can doubt that Casillas is a great professional and team-mate, one of the best in goal in the world," the defender added. "It was just that the other day nothing went right for the team."We’re in what was considered to be an easy group, but the defeat is a set-back. Fortunately, we have time to amend things.
"Sadly, some players retired from the team and changes had to be made. The coach now has to find the way to put things right. Of course, we wanted to beat Slovakia and I think the team played well.
"We had the ball, we controlled the game. The opposition had just three or four chances throughout the whole game. There’s no need to over-dramatise."
Hodgson targets unbeaten qualifying finish for England
England manager Roy Hodgson believes his team can finish their Euro 2016 qualifying campaign unbeaten.
The Three Lions have won both of their opening matches in Group E, having beaten Switzerland 2-0 before hammering San Marino 5-0 on Thursday.
Hodgson's side are expected to make it three wins out of three when they take on Estonia on Sunday. Although the manager doesn't think his side can win every game, he does feel they can finish the phase without a defeat, just as they did their World Cup qualifying group.
"It's hard to say if winning all 10 games is realistic," he told reporters. "Having the goal of being unbeaten is more realistic.
"All that matters is getting to France 2016 and, when we get there, having a competitive team."
The ease with which England brushed San Marino aside prompted some to question the merit of playing sides of such stature, but Hodgson claims it is not an issue that has bothered him.
"It's a subject for people at Uefa to ponder over," he said. "I've been asked the question before and also answered that it isn't my business.
"It would create a lot of logistical and calendar problems and also there is the moral issue.
"Why should some countries be less worthy than others?
"But that's something that really doesn't bother me at the moment.
"When Uefa make a decision - if they make one - then we'll be happy to abide by it, but in the meantime we're perfectly happy to meet teams like San Marino and play against them."
England manager Roy Hodgson believes his team can finish their Euro 2016 qualifying campaign unbeaten.
The Three Lions have won both of their opening matches in Group E, having beaten Switzerland 2-0 before hammering San Marino 5-0 on Thursday.
Hodgson's side are expected to make it three wins out of three when they take on Estonia on Sunday. Although the manager doesn't think his side can win every game, he does feel they can finish the phase without a defeat, just as they did their World Cup qualifying group.
"It's hard to say if winning all 10 games is realistic," he told reporters. "Having the goal of being unbeaten is more realistic.
"All that matters is getting to France 2016 and, when we get there, having a competitive team."
The ease with which England brushed San Marino aside prompted some to question the merit of playing sides of such stature, but Hodgson claims it is not an issue that has bothered him.
"It's a subject for people at Uefa to ponder over," he said. "I've been asked the question before and also answered that it isn't my business.
"It would create a lot of logistical and calendar problems and also there is the moral issue.
"Why should some countries be less worthy than others?
"But that's something that really doesn't bother me at the moment.
"When Uefa make a decision - if they make one - then we'll be happy to abide by it, but in the meantime we're perfectly happy to meet teams like San Marino and play against them."
Germany lacked the finishing touch against Poland - Low
Germany coach Joachim Low believes the world champions had wasteful finishing to blame for being beaten by Poland on Saturday.Arkadiusz Milik and Sebastian Mila were the goalscorers for the hosts, who had never before beaten the Mannschaft in a competitive game in 19 attempts.
Despite admitting Germany's profligacy cost them in the Euro 2016 qualifier, Low was reluctant to place any blame on his players as he believed they were just lacking a bit when it mattered most."Of course we are disappointed because we lost here," he told RTL. "But, honestly, I cannot blame the team.
"One little thing went wrong: we were too wasteful with our chances. The finishing touch was missing, that's why we did not score a goal."But I was absolutely satisfied with our style of play. We created many chances and Poland scored with their first dangerous attack.
"Maybe we did not succeed in using the width of the field in the final minutes. In the first half we lacked depth in our play."After a loss you must look for a reaction. We have to get our strength back and we must win the match on Tuesday. Republic of Ireland will play in the same way, they will be playing defensively."
Germany are currently fourth in Group D behind Poland, Republic of Ireland and Scotland with one win and one defeat.
Germany coach Joachim Low believes the world champions had wasteful finishing to blame for being beaten by Poland on Saturday.Arkadiusz Milik and Sebastian Mila were the goalscorers for the hosts, who had never before beaten the Mannschaft in a competitive game in 19 attempts.
Despite admitting Germany's profligacy cost them in the Euro 2016 qualifier, Low was reluctant to place any blame on his players as he believed they were just lacking a bit when it mattered most."Of course we are disappointed because we lost here," he told RTL. "But, honestly, I cannot blame the team.
"One little thing went wrong: we were too wasteful with our chances. The finishing touch was missing, that's why we did not score a goal."But I was absolutely satisfied with our style of play. We created many chances and Poland scored with their first dangerous attack.
"Maybe we did not succeed in using the width of the field in the final minutes. In the first half we lacked depth in our play."After a loss you must look for a reaction. We have to get our strength back and we must win the match on Tuesday. Republic of Ireland will play in the same way, they will be playing defensively."
Germany are currently fourth in Group D behind Poland, Republic of Ireland and Scotland with one win and one defeat.
Keeping Ronaldo quiet good for France confidence, says Mandanda
France goalkeeper Steve Mandanda believes that keeping Cristiano Ronaldo off the scoresheet is brilliant for the team's confidence.
The Real Madrid forward has scored 17 goals in 11 games in 2014-15 and lined up against les Bleus for Portugal in Saturday's friendly.But goals from the Seleccao forward's Madrid team-mate Karim Benzema and Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Paul Pogba left Fernando Santos' side trailing, with Ricardo Quaresma scoring a late consolation.
Mandanda was crucial in keeping Ronaldo at bay, a superb save to keep a header from the Portugal star out not long after half-time ensured Didier Deschamps' men remained ahead and the Marseille shot-stopper conceded it was a boost for him and the whole team."It's good for my confidence and good for the team," Mandanda, chosen to start ahead of usual No.1 Hugo Lloris, who was unfit for Saturday's game, told L'Equipe. "The fact it's Cristiano Ronaldo gives even more weight to that judgement, of course.
"When we play an international, there's no such thing as a friendly match. Against opponents as prestigious as Portugal, there is an obligation to win. There must be a win and that's what we got."This allows our momentum to stay high. We are happy but we know there is a long way to go until Euro 2016."
France will be hosting the European Championship in two years, meaning they have no more competitive clashes until the tournament.
France goalkeeper Steve Mandanda believes that keeping Cristiano Ronaldo off the scoresheet is brilliant for the team's confidence.
The Real Madrid forward has scored 17 goals in 11 games in 2014-15 and lined up against les Bleus for Portugal in Saturday's friendly.But goals from the Seleccao forward's Madrid team-mate Karim Benzema and Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Paul Pogba left Fernando Santos' side trailing, with Ricardo Quaresma scoring a late consolation.
Mandanda was crucial in keeping Ronaldo at bay, a superb save to keep a header from the Portugal star out not long after half-time ensured Didier Deschamps' men remained ahead and the Marseille shot-stopper conceded it was a boost for him and the whole team."It's good for my confidence and good for the team," Mandanda, chosen to start ahead of usual No.1 Hugo Lloris, who was unfit for Saturday's game, told L'Equipe. "The fact it's Cristiano Ronaldo gives even more weight to that judgement, of course.
"When we play an international, there's no such thing as a friendly match. Against opponents as prestigious as Portugal, there is an obligation to win. There must be a win and that's what we got."This allows our momentum to stay high. We are happy but we know there is a long way to go until Euro 2016."
France will be hosting the European Championship in two years, meaning they have no more competitive clashes until the tournament.
Benzema: France conquered Portugal in style
Karim Benzema was delighted to see France "beat Portugal in style" on Saturday.
The Real Madrid forward scored three minutes into the friendly, with Paul Pogba doubling the lead before Ricardo Quaresma's consolation effort 10 minutes from time.
Benzema was especially pleased with the attacking intent in the opening stages against Fernando Santos' men and said his club-mate Cristiano Ronaldo was well aware of the quality in les Bleus' squad."We wanted to make a good game and I think we beat Portugal in style," the striker told reporters.
"We went forward very well, especially during the first quarter of an hour in which we were always on top."Cristiano knew we were a good team, despite having young players."
France coach Didier Deschamps hopes the good momentum after a decent World Cup can be maintained as the young squad build up to hosting Euro 2016 next summer."We played a good game," he said. "I liked the dynamics of my team and I want to keep this positive attitude up.
"My players, though young, are already more experienced and better equipped to play these sort of games. We faced a great Portugal team and this result is very good for us."
The World Cup 2014 quarter-finalists are back in action against Armenia on Tuesday.
Karim Benzema was delighted to see France "beat Portugal in style" on Saturday.
The Real Madrid forward scored three minutes into the friendly, with Paul Pogba doubling the lead before Ricardo Quaresma's consolation effort 10 minutes from time.
Benzema was especially pleased with the attacking intent in the opening stages against Fernando Santos' men and said his club-mate Cristiano Ronaldo was well aware of the quality in les Bleus' squad."We wanted to make a good game and I think we beat Portugal in style," the striker told reporters.
"We went forward very well, especially during the first quarter of an hour in which we were always on top."Cristiano knew we were a good team, despite having young players."
France coach Didier Deschamps hopes the good momentum after a decent World Cup can be maintained as the young squad build up to hosting Euro 2016 next summer."We played a good game," he said. "I liked the dynamics of my team and I want to keep this positive attitude up.
"My players, though young, are already more experienced and better equipped to play these sort of games. We faced a great Portugal team and this result is very good for us."
The World Cup 2014 quarter-finalists are back in action against Armenia on Tuesday.
Moyes ready to return after Manchester United failure
David Moyes says he is ready to return to football management following his sacking by Manchester United.
The Scot was hand-picked by Sir Alex Ferguson to take over the reins following the latter's retirement, but was dismissed just nine months later as the reigning champions finished seventh in the Premier League.
Moyes was in talks with Galatasaray during the summer, only for Cesare Prandelli to be appointed, and feels his experiences at Old Trafford will serve him well ahead of a potential role at another high-profile club.
"I'm ready to go," he told The Telegraph. "I've no time scale. I'm enjoying the break but I'm a football man and I want to work. I feel my best years are still ahead of me and I do feel I am still a young manager.
"I've lots to learn and lots I want to put into practice. I think I am better equipped to take over a job like Manchester United now than even when I did take over because I've had a chance to see what happens, what goes on.
"I felt I was ready when I left Everton, but, obviously, when you get in, you see things and you realise that experience and knowledge you can only get from being in the job. But, unfortunately, I only got nine months."
David Moyes says he is ready to return to football management following his sacking by Manchester United.
The Scot was hand-picked by Sir Alex Ferguson to take over the reins following the latter's retirement, but was dismissed just nine months later as the reigning champions finished seventh in the Premier League.
Moyes was in talks with Galatasaray during the summer, only for Cesare Prandelli to be appointed, and feels his experiences at Old Trafford will serve him well ahead of a potential role at another high-profile club.
"I'm ready to go," he told The Telegraph. "I've no time scale. I'm enjoying the break but I'm a football man and I want to work. I feel my best years are still ahead of me and I do feel I am still a young manager.
"I've lots to learn and lots I want to put into practice. I think I am better equipped to take over a job like Manchester United now than even when I did take over because I've had a chance to see what happens, what goes on.
"I felt I was ready when I left Everton, but, obviously, when you get in, you see things and you realise that experience and knowledge you can only get from being in the job. But, unfortunately, I only got nine months."
Rooney is 'dad' of England squad, says Wilshere
Jack Wilshere has described England captain Wayne Rooney as the "dad" of the squad.
The striker was appointed skipper by Roy Hodgson in August following the retirement of Steven Gerrard and will be handed his 99th international cap against Estonia on Sunday.
Wilshere has hailed Rooney's ability to bring the squad together as they look to qualify for Euro 2016, insisting that his determination and "hunger" makes him a perfect role model for the younger players.
"He's a natural leader," Wilshere is quoted as saying by The Sunday People. "You can see that. Even when Steven Gerrard was captain, Rooney was a big voice in the dressing room.
"He gets everyone going, he encourages and he's not scared to tell you when you're doing something wrong.
"He's the only one now who has been playing for England for 10 years, with the likes of Gerrard. He's been through that generation.
"Now it really feels like he's the dad figure, if you like. He puts his arm around us, brings us together and gets us going.
"Ever since I came into the squad he was like that. He's just a natural leader. He loves the game. He's first out to training. You can tell his hunger has never changed. It's refreshing to see."
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