Latest ads
-
Video Content Creator
- pramukag
- Updated:
-
QA Engineer Intern
- pramukag
- Updated:
-
Sell your Land, House on idamata.lk for FREE
- sajith.xp.pk
- Updated:
-
Handmade Character Soft Toys- anil1961
- Updated:
-
Bodim.lk out now !- Manoj Suranga Bandara
- Updated:
..::Football III::..
- Thread starter Wolverine GTR
- Start date
- Status
Vidal set for Juventus extension, says Marotta
Juventus midfielder Arturo Vidal will sign a new deal in the coming weeks, according to the club's director general Giuseppe Marotta.
The 26-year-old is expected to extend his existing contract, which expires in 2016, for a further two more years, with him set to earn around €5 million a year.
Vidal has emerged as a rising star at the club since joinng from Bayer Leverkusen in 2011 and has caught the eye with some impressive performances both in Serie A and the Champions League.
"Vidal arrived in Turin and the move was met with some scepticism, but he has done very well and now he should be rewarded," Marotta told Tuttosport.
"There have been big clubs in Europe interested in him but in the coming weeks, his contract will be prolonged and economically adequate."
Meanwhile, ahead of the Bianconeri's clash with Inter in next Saturday's Derby d'Italia, Juve's director general believes the Nerazzurri can be title contenders and says Walter Mazzarri is the right man for the club.
"It will be a tough match for us, it will be important to determine our quality but also the quality of our opponents, who I think can compete for Scudetto," he added.
"I would be happy if we lose this and break our 'days at the top of the table' record if at the end of the season we will win the Scudetto.
"And I would be even happier if we beat Inter and win the Scudetto aswell. But I know Mazzarri very well as I worked with him, and I'm sure that Inter will play very well good this season."
Juventus midfielder Arturo Vidal will sign a new deal in the coming weeks, according to the club's director general Giuseppe Marotta.
The 26-year-old is expected to extend his existing contract, which expires in 2016, for a further two more years, with him set to earn around €5 million a year.
Vidal has emerged as a rising star at the club since joinng from Bayer Leverkusen in 2011 and has caught the eye with some impressive performances both in Serie A and the Champions League.
"Vidal arrived in Turin and the move was met with some scepticism, but he has done very well and now he should be rewarded," Marotta told Tuttosport.
"There have been big clubs in Europe interested in him but in the coming weeks, his contract will be prolonged and economically adequate."
Meanwhile, ahead of the Bianconeri's clash with Inter in next Saturday's Derby d'Italia, Juve's director general believes the Nerazzurri can be title contenders and says Walter Mazzarri is the right man for the club.
"It will be a tough match for us, it will be important to determine our quality but also the quality of our opponents, who I think can compete for Scudetto," he added.
"I would be happy if we lose this and break our 'days at the top of the table' record if at the end of the season we will win the Scudetto.
"And I would be even happier if we beat Inter and win the Scudetto aswell. But I know Mazzarri very well as I worked with him, and I'm sure that Inter will play very well good this season."
Gervinho slams Wenger tactics
Gervinho has slammed Arsene Wenger for playing him out of position throughout his two years at Arsenal.
The Ivorian left the Emirates Stadium to join Roma in an €8 million deal last month, after scoring just 11 goals in 63 appearances in what proved to be a disappointing stint in the Premier League.
Gervinho - who joined Arsenal from Lille in 2011 - is hoping to resurrect his career at the Stadio Olimpico, but has been quick to stress that he could have performed better for Wenger's side if the Frenchman had deployed him as a central striker."I was not getting much time on the pitch and was in need of this time to improve and play my best football," the 26-year-old told The Sun.
"Wenger was not prepared to give it to me. Also my position on the wing was not what I was expecting and I wasn't happy with it."It would have helped had he (Wenger) shown more confidence in me."
Gervinho signed for Arsenal after impressing with his displays for Lille, with whom he won the Ligue 1 title and the Coupe de France in the 2010-11 season.
Gervinho has slammed Arsene Wenger for playing him out of position throughout his two years at Arsenal.
The Ivorian left the Emirates Stadium to join Roma in an €8 million deal last month, after scoring just 11 goals in 63 appearances in what proved to be a disappointing stint in the Premier League.
Gervinho - who joined Arsenal from Lille in 2011 - is hoping to resurrect his career at the Stadio Olimpico, but has been quick to stress that he could have performed better for Wenger's side if the Frenchman had deployed him as a central striker."I was not getting much time on the pitch and was in need of this time to improve and play my best football," the 26-year-old told The Sun.
"Wenger was not prepared to give it to me. Also my position on the wing was not what I was expecting and I wasn't happy with it."It would have helped had he (Wenger) shown more confidence in me."
Gervinho signed for Arsenal after impressing with his displays for Lille, with whom he won the Ligue 1 title and the Coupe de France in the 2010-11 season.
I would have joined Arsenal for free, says Ozil
Mesut Ozil claims he would have joined Arsenal for free and admits he lost the "transparency, trust and respect" at Real Madrid.
The Germany international sealed his deadline day switch to Arsene Wenger's side in a €47 million deal, signing a five-year contract with the club.
Ozil revealed that discussions with the Arsenal manager prompted him to consider his squad status at Madrid and influenced his move to the Premier League.
“In some way, that conversation flicked a switch in me and made me realise what I had lost at Madrid: transparency, trust, respect," Ozil told Die Welt.
"He [Wenger] told me exactly how he saw me, how he wanted to use me, what he expected of me.
"I cannot do anything about the transfer fee. I would have come for free, too."
Ozil, a club-record purchase for the Gunners, scored or assisted 108 goals in 159 appearances in all competitions for Madrid.
Mesut Ozil claims he would have joined Arsenal for free and admits he lost the "transparency, trust and respect" at Real Madrid.
The Germany international sealed his deadline day switch to Arsene Wenger's side in a €47 million deal, signing a five-year contract with the club.
Ozil revealed that discussions with the Arsenal manager prompted him to consider his squad status at Madrid and influenced his move to the Premier League.
“In some way, that conversation flicked a switch in me and made me realise what I had lost at Madrid: transparency, trust, respect," Ozil told Die Welt.
"He [Wenger] told me exactly how he saw me, how he wanted to use me, what he expected of me.
"I cannot do anything about the transfer fee. I would have come for free, too."
Ozil, a club-record purchase for the Gunners, scored or assisted 108 goals in 159 appearances in all competitions for Madrid.
Finland Under-21s 1-1 England Under-21s: Berahino strike seals draw as Wisdom sees red
Saido Berahino extended his scoring run for England Under-21s as Gareth Southgate's men battled to a 1-1 draw against Finland.
The 20-year-old West Brom forward followed up on his winning goal against Moldova last Thursday with the equaliser which maintains England's unbeaten start to European Under-21 Championship Group 1.
Southgate's side were forced to play the final 16 minutes with 10 men after Liverpool defender Andre Wisdom was sent off for kicking out at Tim Vayrynen.
Moshtagh Yaghoubi's free kick from 30 yards out opened the scoring for the hosts after he whipped in an effort from the left which caught Jack Butland by surprise as the Stoke City goalkeeper was anticipating a cross, rather than a shot.
England had a strong case for a penalty before the close of the first half after Berahino was caught by Finland goalkeeper Jesse Joronen inside the box, while James Ward-Prowse had two chances to put the visitors level.
Second-half substitute Harry Kane had another opportunity to pull Southgate's men level however Joronen was equal to the Tottenham forward's strike after he was put through on goal.
But England's continued pressure was rewarded after 67 minutes as Wilfried Zaha's cross from the right wing was met by Berahino, who finished neatly from close range.
Wisdom's dismissal threatened to set up a nervy finish for England but the visitors could have escaped with a second successive Group 1 victory had Joronen not denied Eric Dier from two set pieces.
Saido Berahino extended his scoring run for England Under-21s as Gareth Southgate's men battled to a 1-1 draw against Finland.
The 20-year-old West Brom forward followed up on his winning goal against Moldova last Thursday with the equaliser which maintains England's unbeaten start to European Under-21 Championship Group 1.
Southgate's side were forced to play the final 16 minutes with 10 men after Liverpool defender Andre Wisdom was sent off for kicking out at Tim Vayrynen.
Moshtagh Yaghoubi's free kick from 30 yards out opened the scoring for the hosts after he whipped in an effort from the left which caught Jack Butland by surprise as the Stoke City goalkeeper was anticipating a cross, rather than a shot.
England had a strong case for a penalty before the close of the first half after Berahino was caught by Finland goalkeeper Jesse Joronen inside the box, while James Ward-Prowse had two chances to put the visitors level.
Second-half substitute Harry Kane had another opportunity to pull Southgate's men level however Joronen was equal to the Tottenham forward's strike after he was put through on goal.
But England's continued pressure was rewarded after 67 minutes as Wilfried Zaha's cross from the right wing was met by Berahino, who finished neatly from close range.
Wisdom's dismissal threatened to set up a nervy finish for England but the visitors could have escaped with a second successive Group 1 victory had Joronen not denied Eric Dier from two set pieces.
‘Barcelona would not pay €100m for Bale’
Barcelona president Sandro Rosell says he would never have allowed the club to pay the €100 million fee which Real Madrid spent on Gareth Bale.
The Wales international secured his protracted move to Santiago Bernabeu shortly before the end of the summer transfer window, though the sum involved has attracted significant criticism, with Barca coach Gerardo Martino claiming it showed "a lack of respect for the world we live in."
While Rosell admits the timing of Martino's comments was ill-advised, he has voiced his own disdain for the world-record fee, claiming that his own club could never match such sums on a single player.
"I wouldn’t have paid €100 million [for Bale]," he told TV3.
"Barcelona cannot allow for that. If we pay €100m, people would go crazy. Madrid is a private institution and if their socios allow it, then I have nothing to say.
"We need to tell Tata that he can’t always say what he thinks, but he was speaking from the heart."
Rosell was quick to praise Madrid for their decision to allow Kaka to return to AC Milan on a free transfer, however, stating that the departure of the likes of the Brazilian and David Villa from Camp Nou are useful in freeing up the wage bill.
"Madrid selling Kaka to Milan for nothing was a good move. That’s one huge salary off the books at least. Just like selling Villa was a good move for us," Rosell said.
The 49-year-old also revealed he has been in touch with Tito Vilanova, who is continuing to battle cancer following his relapse earlier this year.
"I had dinner with him the other day and he looked well. He’s fighting, he’s putting all his energy into it and I hope he comes out alright on the other side," he added.
Meanwhile, Barcelona were handed a boost after Sergio Busquets returned to training on Monday. The midfielder, who injured his thigh in the 3-2 Liga win over Valencia, has stepped up his recovery after being forced to withdraw from the Spain squad for the matches against Finland and Chile.
Barcelona president Sandro Rosell says he would never have allowed the club to pay the €100 million fee which Real Madrid spent on Gareth Bale.
The Wales international secured his protracted move to Santiago Bernabeu shortly before the end of the summer transfer window, though the sum involved has attracted significant criticism, with Barca coach Gerardo Martino claiming it showed "a lack of respect for the world we live in."
While Rosell admits the timing of Martino's comments was ill-advised, he has voiced his own disdain for the world-record fee, claiming that his own club could never match such sums on a single player.
"I wouldn’t have paid €100 million [for Bale]," he told TV3.
"Barcelona cannot allow for that. If we pay €100m, people would go crazy. Madrid is a private institution and if their socios allow it, then I have nothing to say.
"We need to tell Tata that he can’t always say what he thinks, but he was speaking from the heart."
Rosell was quick to praise Madrid for their decision to allow Kaka to return to AC Milan on a free transfer, however, stating that the departure of the likes of the Brazilian and David Villa from Camp Nou are useful in freeing up the wage bill.
"Madrid selling Kaka to Milan for nothing was a good move. That’s one huge salary off the books at least. Just like selling Villa was a good move for us," Rosell said.
The 49-year-old also revealed he has been in touch with Tito Vilanova, who is continuing to battle cancer following his relapse earlier this year.
"I had dinner with him the other day and he looked well. He’s fighting, he’s putting all his energy into it and I hope he comes out alright on the other side," he added.
Meanwhile, Barcelona were handed a boost after Sergio Busquets returned to training on Monday. The midfielder, who injured his thigh in the 3-2 Liga win over Valencia, has stepped up his recovery after being forced to withdraw from the Spain squad for the matches against Finland and Chile.
Lampard will start for 100th cap against Ukraine, confirms Hodgson
Frank Lampard will win his 100th England cap from the start in Tuesday's World Cup qualifier against Ukraine, manager Roy Hodgson has confirmed.
The Chelsea midfielder made his international debut in a 2-1 friendly victory over Belgium in October 1999 and has been to two World Cups and two European Championships with the Three Lions, notching up 28 goals in the process.
Hodgson is delighted to see Lampard become the third player reach his century during his reign, following Ashley Cole and Steven Gerrard.
"Yes, he'll play tomorrow night, so that's quite a first as well," the England boss told reporters on Monday.
"I think I've been very lucky to have three players play their 100th game for England during the time I've been manager. I'm very proud of that I suppose or happy to have been a part of that.
"All things being equal, Frank will play and start tomorrow and get his 100th cap."
Hodgson also revealed that he only expects to make one change for the match tie in Kiev, with the suspended Danny Welbeck the only absentee from Friday night's 4-0 thrashing of Moldova.
"Well, basically there will only be one change in the team," he added. "That'll be the person who replaces Danny Welbeck.
"I think that I'll leave it to you to make your assumptions and your guesses on that but that's the only change that's likely."
The match's importance to the Group H reckoning is not lost on Hodgson, who wants to be decisive in their attempts to win a "cup final".
"Ukraine are a good team and both them and us are capable of winning the group so it's a bit of a cup final," he remarked. "It's a critical fixture in the group and the team that wins the game will have a great chance to qualify.
"You do not win games by being cautious; sometimes you win it by going on the front foot."
Frank Lampard will win his 100th England cap from the start in Tuesday's World Cup qualifier against Ukraine, manager Roy Hodgson has confirmed.
The Chelsea midfielder made his international debut in a 2-1 friendly victory over Belgium in October 1999 and has been to two World Cups and two European Championships with the Three Lions, notching up 28 goals in the process.
Hodgson is delighted to see Lampard become the third player reach his century during his reign, following Ashley Cole and Steven Gerrard.
"Yes, he'll play tomorrow night, so that's quite a first as well," the England boss told reporters on Monday.
"I think I've been very lucky to have three players play their 100th game for England during the time I've been manager. I'm very proud of that I suppose or happy to have been a part of that.
"All things being equal, Frank will play and start tomorrow and get his 100th cap."
Hodgson also revealed that he only expects to make one change for the match tie in Kiev, with the suspended Danny Welbeck the only absentee from Friday night's 4-0 thrashing of Moldova.
"Well, basically there will only be one change in the team," he added. "That'll be the person who replaces Danny Welbeck.
"I think that I'll leave it to you to make your assumptions and your guesses on that but that's the only change that's likely."
The match's importance to the Group H reckoning is not lost on Hodgson, who wants to be decisive in their attempts to win a "cup final".
"Ukraine are a good team and both them and us are capable of winning the group so it's a bit of a cup final," he remarked. "It's a critical fixture in the group and the team that wins the game will have a great chance to qualify.
"You do not win games by being cautious; sometimes you win it by going on the front foot."
David Silva ruled out of Spain friendly with Chile
Manchester City midfielder David Silva is a doubt for Saturday's Premier League match against Stoke City after pulling out of Spain's Tuesday friendly with Chile due to picking up a "light muscle injury" in training.
A statement from the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) confirmed the attacker's withdrawal from the match, which is to be played in Geneva.
It read: "After the issues reported by the player David Jimenez Silva after this afternoon's training session, a scan took place and a light muscle injury was detected. For precaution and to avoid complications with this injury, Silva left the training camp.
"National coach Vicente del Bosque has decided not to call up anyone else to cover the absence."
The 27-year-old's injury could add to City's already notable fitness issues, with club captain Vincent Kompany, right-back Micah Richards and summer signing Martin Demichelis already on the treatment table.
A short statement on the club's official website confirmed the knock but played down its seriousness, calling it a "minor injury".
"The midfielder has a slight thigh problem, which is not thought to be serious, and will return to Manchester to receive treatment and assessment by MCFC medical staff," City declared.
Earlier on Monday, the RFEF announced that Real Madrid summer recruit Isco had withdrawn from the friendly after failing to recover from an ankle knock.
Klopp: Dortmund still to reach their peak
Jurgen Klopp has fired an ominous warning to the rest of Europe by claiming Borussia Dortmund will only continue to get better.
Dortmund won over the hearts and minds of the continent’s fans with their exhilarating run to last season’s Champions League final, where they were defeated by a late winner from Bundesliga rivals Bayern Munich.
Yet, despite routing Real Madrid 4-1 in the first leg of the semi-final this year, Dortmund coach Klopp claims his side will keep on improving.
Speaking to Uefa.com, Klopp said: “We haven't reached our peak in terms of performance yet, but if we look at our results last season then we almost achieved it.
“We still don't have a clue how well the team can play, we still have to show that.”
The 46-year-old has instigated an incredible turnaround since taking over at the Signal Iduna Park in the summer of 2008.
Klopp cut his managerial teeth at Mainz before joining Dortmund and, in the five subsequent seasons, the club have won two Bundesliga titles, the 2012 DFB Pokal, while he was awarded coach of the year in Germany twice.
Yet, despite those successes, Klopp insists "I’m no magician".
“We cannot make good players out of bad players. We need to recognise the potential in the right players, try to develop it to turn it into skills with the help of everyone involved. That's how you can find success,” he added.
“Generally I think we can make a team better with the way we work, with the way we train.”
Dortmund are grouped alongside Arsenal, Marseille and Napoli in Group F but, Klopp was reluctant to predict a similar European adventure to last year, and admits his side struck lucky en route to Wembley.
“You can only reach the final by also being lucky in some situations. No team makes it to the final just because they're the best and strongest team," he continued.
“We were certainly not the best team and therefore we needed a bit more luck. You also need a big heart, great desire, and then we can make it a long way, but we might also be knocked out in the group stage.
“In the Champions League the quality of the other teams is just too high. It would have been crazy if we had won the Champions League last season.
“Only a few lads thought they would become Bundesliga players, and five years later they became domestic champions twice and won the German Cup once. And to have then become Champions League winners, that would have been an incredible story.”
Certainly Klopp’s Dortmund have become an incredible story regardless, and the coach explained how managing the club requires much more than just on-field success.
“You need a playing philosophy that reflects your mentality, that reflects the club, that gives a direction to follow," he said.
“That means taking the passion to its limits. Borussia Dortmund don't just play for a result, Borussia Dortmund means an experience.”
Jurgen Klopp has fired an ominous warning to the rest of Europe by claiming Borussia Dortmund will only continue to get better.
Dortmund won over the hearts and minds of the continent’s fans with their exhilarating run to last season’s Champions League final, where they were defeated by a late winner from Bundesliga rivals Bayern Munich.
Yet, despite routing Real Madrid 4-1 in the first leg of the semi-final this year, Dortmund coach Klopp claims his side will keep on improving.
Speaking to Uefa.com, Klopp said: “We haven't reached our peak in terms of performance yet, but if we look at our results last season then we almost achieved it.
“We still don't have a clue how well the team can play, we still have to show that.”
The 46-year-old has instigated an incredible turnaround since taking over at the Signal Iduna Park in the summer of 2008.
Klopp cut his managerial teeth at Mainz before joining Dortmund and, in the five subsequent seasons, the club have won two Bundesliga titles, the 2012 DFB Pokal, while he was awarded coach of the year in Germany twice.
Yet, despite those successes, Klopp insists "I’m no magician".
“We cannot make good players out of bad players. We need to recognise the potential in the right players, try to develop it to turn it into skills with the help of everyone involved. That's how you can find success,” he added.
“Generally I think we can make a team better with the way we work, with the way we train.”
Dortmund are grouped alongside Arsenal, Marseille and Napoli in Group F but, Klopp was reluctant to predict a similar European adventure to last year, and admits his side struck lucky en route to Wembley.
“You can only reach the final by also being lucky in some situations. No team makes it to the final just because they're the best and strongest team," he continued.
“We were certainly not the best team and therefore we needed a bit more luck. You also need a big heart, great desire, and then we can make it a long way, but we might also be knocked out in the group stage.
“In the Champions League the quality of the other teams is just too high. It would have been crazy if we had won the Champions League last season.
“Only a few lads thought they would become Bundesliga players, and five years later they became domestic champions twice and won the German Cup once. And to have then become Champions League winners, that would have been an incredible story.”
Certainly Klopp’s Dortmund have become an incredible story regardless, and the coach explained how managing the club requires much more than just on-field success.
“You need a playing philosophy that reflects your mentality, that reflects the club, that gives a direction to follow," he said.
“That means taking the passion to its limits. Borussia Dortmund don't just play for a result, Borussia Dortmund means an experience.”
David Villa: I'm not here to make fans forget about Falcao
David Villa insists he is not at Atletico Madrid as a replacement for Radamel Falcao, he is only there to make the club bigger and better.
Colombian striker Falcao enjoyed two memorable seasons with Atletico, scoring 71 goals in 90 games and winning three major trophies before moving to Monaco in a big-money move this summer.
Villa was brought in from Barcelona to fill the void but Spain’s record goalscorer, who cost just €2.1m following his move, insists his only target is to improve his new club’s standing in the game.
“I think that Falcao is a player who is much loved and always will be for the fans of Atleti,” he told Movistar.
“But I believe that he and I are very different in our characteristics on the field. My mission is to try and make Atleti bigger, not to help forget any player.”
Atletico’s impressive early-season form, including a narrow defeat on away goals to Barcelona in the Supercopa, has prompted suggestions they can seriously challenge the established top two of Barca and Real Madrid in La Liga.
While Villa feels his new charges more than matched his former club in the two-legged tie, he believes a sustained title challenge is likely to be a tough ask for Diego Simeone’s men.
He continued: “We were better than Barcelona in the two games - we had more chances.
“We defended Barca well and had a few scoring chances ourselves. Victor Valdes was the best player and that says everything.
“But we are at a great disadvantage in contending for La Liga. On paper, we are at a disadvantage to the top two.
“We just have to think of going game by game and trying to earn wins in a row and we shall see what happens.”
Villa, who is currently with the international squad ahead of their friendly with Chile, was also asked for his views on the current debate raging on whether Iker Casillas, Victor Valdes or Pepe Reina should be the Spain’s No.1 goalkeeper.
He cautiously said: “Any of the three of them are amply prepared to keep goal and the squad would not notice a change if any of them were selected because they are all capable of doing well and holding the position calmly.”
Collison hopes for Bale substitute appearance against Serbia
Wales midfielder Jack Collison hopes that Gareth Bale is fit enough to play a part from the bench when they visit Serbia on Tuesday.
Manager Chris Coleman confirmed on Monday that the Real Madrid forward will not start once again as he heads for a scan on a groin injury suffered in training before Friday's 2-1 defeat to Macedonia, though he could feature as a substitute if the results are positive.
"It's great to have [Bale] around, training and that, so, if we can get him fit and get him out there, it's going to be a massive boost for us," Collison told reporters of the world's most expensive footballer.
Wales come into the game second from bottom in Group A of World Cup qualifying, a point ahead of Scotland, with three fixtures to go.
Reaching Brazil is impossible for the Welsh but they could yet finish third, which would mean better seeding for next year's draw for Euro 2016 qualification and Collison wants a strong end to their campaign as a result.
"It's up to us to get as many points as possible," the West Ham midfielder remarked.
"Obviously we want to keep up with the good performances but it's also important we put points on the board and finish as high up as possible and look to qualify for the Euros now."
Wales midfielder Jack Collison hopes that Gareth Bale is fit enough to play a part from the bench when they visit Serbia on Tuesday.
Manager Chris Coleman confirmed on Monday that the Real Madrid forward will not start once again as he heads for a scan on a groin injury suffered in training before Friday's 2-1 defeat to Macedonia, though he could feature as a substitute if the results are positive.
"It's great to have [Bale] around, training and that, so, if we can get him fit and get him out there, it's going to be a massive boost for us," Collison told reporters of the world's most expensive footballer.
Wales come into the game second from bottom in Group A of World Cup qualifying, a point ahead of Scotland, with three fixtures to go.
Reaching Brazil is impossible for the Welsh but they could yet finish third, which would mean better seeding for next year's draw for Euro 2016 qualification and Collison wants a strong end to their campaign as a result.
"It's up to us to get as many points as possible," the West Ham midfielder remarked.
"Obviously we want to keep up with the good performances but it's also important we put points on the board and finish as high up as possible and look to qualify for the Euros now."
Pedro peeved by Spain's stubborn opposition
Pedro says Spain are becoming increasingly frustrated at the defensive displays being deployed against the reigning world and European Champions.
Mixu Paatelainen's Finland side were the latest team to defend en masse against Vicente del Bosque's men when they met in a World Cup qualifier on Friday.
And, despite la Roja leaving Helsinki with a 2-0 win and three points, Barcelona winger Pedro says the Spanish are finding it difficult to find a way through the reinforced defensive ranks.
"In 50, 60 or 70 per cent of games we play, the opponents are very defensive and that makes it very difficult." Pedro told reporters.
"For the forwards it is maddening because you have no room to move, lose your marker or enter from wide. It is very difficult to play like this.
"After winning the World Cup and European Championships, opponents respect us more and that is reflected in the manner they play us.
"They know our strengths and weaknesses and it's more difficult to win, but we're doing a great job and it must be maintained to continue our success."
Spain were made to work hard for victory over a stubborn Finland, with Alvaro Negredo adding a late strike to double an early lead given through Jordi Alba.
That win, coupled with France's draw in Georgia means Spain top Group I by three points with just two games left to play.
Yet, despite the position of strength, Pedro was taking nothing for granted.
He added: "We need to win our two remaining home games to be sure of reaching the World Cup and achieving our goal."
Pedro says Spain are becoming increasingly frustrated at the defensive displays being deployed against the reigning world and European Champions.
Mixu Paatelainen's Finland side were the latest team to defend en masse against Vicente del Bosque's men when they met in a World Cup qualifier on Friday.
And, despite la Roja leaving Helsinki with a 2-0 win and three points, Barcelona winger Pedro says the Spanish are finding it difficult to find a way through the reinforced defensive ranks.
"In 50, 60 or 70 per cent of games we play, the opponents are very defensive and that makes it very difficult." Pedro told reporters.
"For the forwards it is maddening because you have no room to move, lose your marker or enter from wide. It is very difficult to play like this.
"After winning the World Cup and European Championships, opponents respect us more and that is reflected in the manner they play us.
"They know our strengths and weaknesses and it's more difficult to win, but we're doing a great job and it must be maintained to continue our success."
Spain were made to work hard for victory over a stubborn Finland, with Alvaro Negredo adding a late strike to double an early lead given through Jordi Alba.
That win, coupled with France's draw in Georgia means Spain top Group I by three points with just two games left to play.
Yet, despite the position of strength, Pedro was taking nothing for granted.
He added: "We need to win our two remaining home games to be sure of reaching the World Cup and achieving our goal."
Lampard would 'hate' to miss out on Brazil
England midfielder Frank Lampard would "hate" the idea of his side failing to qualify for World Cup 2014.
The Chelsea star is set to reach 100 international caps against Ukraine on Tuesday, the Three Lions' final away match of their qualifying campaign with their destiny in their own hands.
A defeat would leave England two points behind their hosts with two games left to play and, aware that they have a tendency to collapse when the pressure is on, Lampard is eager to get the job done.
Asked about the possibility of not reaching Brazil next summer, the midfielder told reporters: "I would hate that.
"I enjoy being with this group of players. I enjoy the manager. I enjoy playing with the young kids in the team and playing alongside people like Steven Gerrard and Ashley Cole, who I have played with for a long time.
"[Getting knocked out] would certainly be something I wouldn't want. England want to get to the World Cup. You ]the media] want to get there. The fans want to get there. I wouldn't want to go out like that, that's for sure."
Lampard has experienced his fair share of frustration in World Cups but stops short of feeling that he has unfinished business with the tournament.
"You become a little bit more level-headed with age," the Blues veteran continued. "I wouldn't say there was a score to settle.
"I have been to two World Cups but, obviously, if the opportunity arose to go and have a bit more of a personal impact, that would be great."
England midfielder Frank Lampard would "hate" the idea of his side failing to qualify for World Cup 2014.
The Chelsea star is set to reach 100 international caps against Ukraine on Tuesday, the Three Lions' final away match of their qualifying campaign with their destiny in their own hands.
A defeat would leave England two points behind their hosts with two games left to play and, aware that they have a tendency to collapse when the pressure is on, Lampard is eager to get the job done.
Asked about the possibility of not reaching Brazil next summer, the midfielder told reporters: "I would hate that.
"I enjoy being with this group of players. I enjoy the manager. I enjoy playing with the young kids in the team and playing alongside people like Steven Gerrard and Ashley Cole, who I have played with for a long time.
"[Getting knocked out] would certainly be something I wouldn't want. England want to get to the World Cup. You ]the media] want to get there. The fans want to get there. I wouldn't want to go out like that, that's for sure."
Lampard has experienced his fair share of frustration in World Cups but stops short of feeling that he has unfinished business with the tournament.
"You become a little bit more level-headed with age," the Blues veteran continued. "I wouldn't say there was a score to settle.
"I have been to two World Cups but, obviously, if the opportunity arose to go and have a bit more of a personal impact, that would be great."
Michu: Swansea are stronger this season
Swansea City attacker Michu feels that his side are stronger this season following a number of promising additions in the transfer window.
With deals for Wilfried Bony - a club-record £12 million arrival from Vitesse - and Jonjo Shelvey among those completed early, the club made just one signing on deadline day that saw them bring in Getafe forward Alvaro Vazquez on loan.
Michu is now among eight Spanish players at the Liberty Stadium, thanks to manager Michael Laudrup utilising his past experience in La Liga.
"I think our signings this summer were very good," Michu told the club's official website. "We are stronger this year.
"Everybody is speaking Spanish in the changing rooms now! Michael knows these players, but I'm very happy, not only with the Spanish signings, but with all the signings this summer.
"When you play with high quality players, it's easy to play. They help you a lot."
The Swans face a more tightly packed season of fixtures in 2013-14 after qualifying for the group stage of the Europa League but the Spaniard is unafraid of the extra matches, seeing it as an opportunity to be enjoyed.
"We are going to enjoy it. For me, to play a game is the best part in football," he added. "Even if we had 100 games this year, it’s better for the team."
Swansea City attacker Michu feels that his side are stronger this season following a number of promising additions in the transfer window.
With deals for Wilfried Bony - a club-record £12 million arrival from Vitesse - and Jonjo Shelvey among those completed early, the club made just one signing on deadline day that saw them bring in Getafe forward Alvaro Vazquez on loan.
Michu is now among eight Spanish players at the Liberty Stadium, thanks to manager Michael Laudrup utilising his past experience in La Liga.
"I think our signings this summer were very good," Michu told the club's official website. "We are stronger this year.
"Everybody is speaking Spanish in the changing rooms now! Michael knows these players, but I'm very happy, not only with the Spanish signings, but with all the signings this summer.
"When you play with high quality players, it's easy to play. They help you a lot."
The Swans face a more tightly packed season of fixtures in 2013-14 after qualifying for the group stage of the Europa League but the Spaniard is unafraid of the extra matches, seeing it as an opportunity to be enjoyed.
"We are going to enjoy it. For me, to play a game is the best part in football," he added. "Even if we had 100 games this year, it’s better for the team."
Gattuso: Kaka will need time
Gennaro Gattuso has urged AC Milan fans to be patient with Kaka as the Brazilian looks to rediscover his magic touch on the back of four disappointing years with Real Madrid.
The 31-year-old sealed his return to the club where he rose to prominence by signing a two-year deal with Milan on deadline day of the summer transfer window, but Palermo boss and former Rossoneri favourite Gattuso has urged fans to be patient.
"You have to be patient with Kaka. I hope that the fans do not expect to see the Kaka from the past right away," Gattuso told Sky Sport Italia.
"We should not forget that he has not been playing much for the past three years and has been unable to act at his highest level.
"That's why the Milan fans should be patient and give him time. Kaka is a great player and also a good person to have in the dressing room."
Gattuso played alongside Kaka at Milan from 2003 until 2009.
Gennaro Gattuso has urged AC Milan fans to be patient with Kaka as the Brazilian looks to rediscover his magic touch on the back of four disappointing years with Real Madrid.
The 31-year-old sealed his return to the club where he rose to prominence by signing a two-year deal with Milan on deadline day of the summer transfer window, but Palermo boss and former Rossoneri favourite Gattuso has urged fans to be patient.
"You have to be patient with Kaka. I hope that the fans do not expect to see the Kaka from the past right away," Gattuso told Sky Sport Italia.
"We should not forget that he has not been playing much for the past three years and has been unable to act at his highest level.
"That's why the Milan fans should be patient and give him time. Kaka is a great player and also a good person to have in the dressing room."
Gattuso played alongside Kaka at Milan from 2003 until 2009.
Barcelona defender Jordi Alba has revealed his desire to become the best left-back in the world by the time his playing days come to an end.
The defender, who rejoined Barcelona from Valencia in the summer of 2012, has been in fine form in the opening months of the 2013-14 campaign, but is determined to keep on improving and do even better in the years to come.
"I hope to be among the best in the world by the time I finish my career," the 24-year-old told reporters.
"I'm flattered that people are talking about how well I am playing, but I don't take too much notice of it because when I have a bad game it's the opposite - and people slate me endlessly - but when I have a good game it's as if I'm the best player of all time.
"I hope I can keep growing as a footballer and in many years' time be among the best in the world."Alba netted once in Spain's 2-0 win over Finland on Friday and has now scored five goals in 24 appearances for the European champions.
Moyes convinced me to stay at Manchester United, reveals Nani
Manchester United winger Nani has revealed that recently appointed Old Trafford boss David Moyes persuaded him to sign a new five-year deal with the club.
The 26-year-old had one year remaining on his current deal and had been widely tipped to leave the club after featuring only 10 times in Sir Alex Ferguson's final season with the Red Devils.
But, as exclusively revealed by Goal in July, Nani spoke with Moyes who convinced him his future was at Old Trafford, and the Portugal international is thrilled to have extended his stay with the Premier League champions.
"I am very content with my new deal at Manchester United," Nani told the Mirror. "This summer was not easy but after a lot of thought and talking to David Moyes I believe it was the best solution.
"I feel I can offer many things to United. I had other important offers but without a sufficient challenge to make me want to leave United.
"The coach would not guarantee me a place in the XI more than any other player. I know I must work hard to get into this team. That is my objective for this season."
Cristiano & Bale are compatible, insists Ronaldo
Former Brazil international Ronaldo has little doubt that Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo will form a good partnership at Real Madrid.
The 24-year-old joined the Santiago Bernabeu side for a world record fee of €100 million in the summer transfer window - a sum that eclipsed the money spent by Madrid in buying Ronaldo from Manchester United in 2009.
However, the Brazil legend does not think that the arrival of another high-profile name will have a negative impact on the Portuguese and back the pair to work well together.
"I believe that these two players will do very well at Madrid and form a fine partnership," Ronaldo told AS.
"Cristiano and Bale will make the Madrid fans happy. They will triumph together and the fans will enjoy their partnership.
"They will do some great things together and I have no doubt that they will get along just fine. Great players always understand each other. The Madrid faithful are in for a treat."
Bale could make his official Madrid debut at the weekend away against Villarreal.
Former Brazil international Ronaldo has little doubt that Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo will form a good partnership at Real Madrid.
The 24-year-old joined the Santiago Bernabeu side for a world record fee of €100 million in the summer transfer window - a sum that eclipsed the money spent by Madrid in buying Ronaldo from Manchester United in 2009.
However, the Brazil legend does not think that the arrival of another high-profile name will have a negative impact on the Portuguese and back the pair to work well together.
"I believe that these two players will do very well at Madrid and form a fine partnership," Ronaldo told AS.
"Cristiano and Bale will make the Madrid fans happy. They will triumph together and the fans will enjoy their partnership.
"They will do some great things together and I have no doubt that they will get along just fine. Great players always understand each other. The Madrid faithful are in for a treat."
Bale could make his official Madrid debut at the weekend away against Villarreal.
World Cup Qualifying Fixtures 2013.09.10
World Cup Qualifying Fixtures 2013.09.10
Group A
Macedonia Vs Scotland
Wales Vs Serbia
Group B
Armenia Vs Denmark
Malta Vs Bulgaria
Italy Vs Czech republic
Group C
Kazakhstan Vs Sweden
Austria Vs Republic of Ireland
Faroe Islands Vs Germany
Group D
Romania Vs Turkey
Andorra Vs Netherlands
Hungay Vs Estonia
Group E
Norway Vs Switzerland
Cyprus Vs Slovenia
Iceland Vs Albania
Group F
Russia Vs Israel
Luxembourg Vs Nothern Ireland
Group G
Lithuania Vs Liechtenstein
Slovakia Vs Bosnia
Greece Vs Latvia
Group H
Ukraine Vs England
San Marino Vs Poland
Group I
Georgia Vs Finland
Belarus Vs France
Group A
Macedonia Vs Scotland
Wales Vs Serbia
Group B
Armenia Vs Denmark
Malta Vs Bulgaria
Italy Vs Czech republic
Group C
Kazakhstan Vs Sweden
Austria Vs Republic of Ireland
Faroe Islands Vs Germany
Group D
Romania Vs Turkey
Andorra Vs Netherlands
Hungay Vs Estonia
Group E
Norway Vs Switzerland
Cyprus Vs Slovenia
Iceland Vs Albania
Group F
Russia Vs Israel
Luxembourg Vs Nothern Ireland
Group G
Lithuania Vs Liechtenstein
Slovakia Vs Bosnia
Greece Vs Latvia
Group H
Ukraine Vs England
San Marino Vs Poland
Group I
Georgia Vs Finland
Belarus Vs France
International Friendly Fixtures 2013.09.10
International Friendly Fixtures 2013.09.10
Japan Vs Ghana
South Korea Vs Croatia
China Vs Malaysia
Spain Vs Chile
Brazil Vs Portugal
Japan Vs Ghana
South Korea Vs Croatia
China Vs Malaysia
Spain Vs Chile
Brazil Vs Portugal
- Status
