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Scolari dismisses Kovac referee criticism
Luiz Felipe Scolari insists Brazil did not benefit from a contentious penalty decision against Croatia despite angry post-match claims from Niko Kovac.
The Selecao fell behind after an own-goal from Marcelo after 11 minutes before two goals from Neymar, the second a hotly-debated penalty, and a late Oscar strike gave them all three points in a 3-1 win.
Croatia boss Kovac was furious at what he saw as an extremely soft penalty when Fred went down under a challenge by Dejan Lovren, but Scolari claimed he saw nothing wrong with referee Yuichi Nishimura's decision to point to the spot.
"The ref saw a penalty. He gave the penalty, and he's the one who decides," the 65-year-old told reporters after the game."And we think it was a penalty as well."I'm not going to talk about what the other coach said. All I say is Brazil has five world titles. So Brazil had five circuses to win five cups?
"I understand what my colleague has said, and I respect it, because I think the reason he said was due to the result, and I would probably be complaining if I had lost the match as well. But I didn't see us getting favoured by the referee. That's just something that has been said and it will stay said and there's no point in arguing about it."
The Brazil boss was positive about his side's chances in the tournament after the victory and also reserved special praise for Chelsea midfielder Oscar, who delivered an impressive performance in Sao Paulo.
"Neymar took the man-of-the-match award, but if there was a second award it would have to be Oscar's," he continued."Oscar is a good boy. Before the game I went to him and told him he still owed me a goal and that today was the day, and afterwards he came to me and said he paid his debt.
"But one of the things that we all wanted to see and had doubts about was over the resilience of this young group. Today we know we have evolved at least a bit.There's still a lot we need to improve to see if this group can take a punch and get it back together to make it to the end of a match with a win."
Luiz Felipe Scolari insists Brazil did not benefit from a contentious penalty decision against Croatia despite angry post-match claims from Niko Kovac.
The Selecao fell behind after an own-goal from Marcelo after 11 minutes before two goals from Neymar, the second a hotly-debated penalty, and a late Oscar strike gave them all three points in a 3-1 win.
Croatia boss Kovac was furious at what he saw as an extremely soft penalty when Fred went down under a challenge by Dejan Lovren, but Scolari claimed he saw nothing wrong with referee Yuichi Nishimura's decision to point to the spot.
"The ref saw a penalty. He gave the penalty, and he's the one who decides," the 65-year-old told reporters after the game."And we think it was a penalty as well."I'm not going to talk about what the other coach said. All I say is Brazil has five world titles. So Brazil had five circuses to win five cups?
"I understand what my colleague has said, and I respect it, because I think the reason he said was due to the result, and I would probably be complaining if I had lost the match as well. But I didn't see us getting favoured by the referee. That's just something that has been said and it will stay said and there's no point in arguing about it."
The Brazil boss was positive about his side's chances in the tournament after the victory and also reserved special praise for Chelsea midfielder Oscar, who delivered an impressive performance in Sao Paulo.
"Neymar took the man-of-the-match award, but if there was a second award it would have to be Oscar's," he continued."Oscar is a good boy. Before the game I went to him and told him he still owed me a goal and that today was the day, and afterwards he came to me and said he paid his debt.
"But one of the things that we all wanted to see and had doubts about was over the resilience of this young group. Today we know we have evolved at least a bit.There's still a lot we need to improve to see if this group can take a punch and get it back together to make it to the end of a match with a win."
Netherlands will go the distance in World Cup - Van Gaal
Louis van Gaal insists Netherlands are determined to enjoy their World Cup experience and has promised they will be in Brazil for the full five weeks of the tournament.
The Dutch begin their campaign in Salvador on Friday with a rematch of the 2010 final against reigning champions Spain as they bid to qualify from a formidable looking Group B.
Australia and the highly-rated Chile await in the other two group matches, but nothing has dented Van Gaal's confidence in his team's ability to go the distance in Brazil.
"You have to enjoy yourself," he told reporters. "You can’t be serious all the time. You have to release the tension. Cope with the pressure. We have five weeks here. Make no mistake: we will be here for five weeks."
However, the incoming Manchester United manager admitted the prospect of refereeing decisions making the final difference between success and failure at the World Cup makes him nervous.
"I also feel the tension in my stomach," he added.
"If you play such a big tournament, of course not everything just depends on your technical and your tactical skills. We saw that [in Brazil's win over Croatia], for instance - you can't control everything."
Spain are widely tipped to top Group B as they bid to win an unprecedented fourth consecutive major international tournament, and Van Gaal was full of praise for their enduring success.
"Spanish football might be the best in the world, with the physical and technical sides all linked up," he insisted.
"I like the dedication of the Spanish players. They are ranked No.1. We are ranked No.15. We have to play a compact game against them.”
Van Gaal was also quick to play down speculation that the protracted saga which led to his announcement as the new United boss might have affected his ability to prepare for the World Cup with his country.
"Distraction? Well, it may be a distraction," he admitted. "But perhaps Manchester United was a good distraction."
Louis van Gaal insists Netherlands are determined to enjoy their World Cup experience and has promised they will be in Brazil for the full five weeks of the tournament.
The Dutch begin their campaign in Salvador on Friday with a rematch of the 2010 final against reigning champions Spain as they bid to qualify from a formidable looking Group B.
Australia and the highly-rated Chile await in the other two group matches, but nothing has dented Van Gaal's confidence in his team's ability to go the distance in Brazil.
"You have to enjoy yourself," he told reporters. "You can’t be serious all the time. You have to release the tension. Cope with the pressure. We have five weeks here. Make no mistake: we will be here for five weeks."
However, the incoming Manchester United manager admitted the prospect of refereeing decisions making the final difference between success and failure at the World Cup makes him nervous.
"I also feel the tension in my stomach," he added.
"If you play such a big tournament, of course not everything just depends on your technical and your tactical skills. We saw that [in Brazil's win over Croatia], for instance - you can't control everything."
Spain are widely tipped to top Group B as they bid to win an unprecedented fourth consecutive major international tournament, and Van Gaal was full of praise for their enduring success.
"Spanish football might be the best in the world, with the physical and technical sides all linked up," he insisted.
"I like the dedication of the Spanish players. They are ranked No.1. We are ranked No.15. We have to play a compact game against them.”
Van Gaal was also quick to play down speculation that the protracted saga which led to his announcement as the new United boss might have affected his ability to prepare for the World Cup with his country.
"Distraction? Well, it may be a distraction," he admitted. "But perhaps Manchester United was a good distraction."
'Fred should have been booked for diving' - Brazil blunder ref comes under fire
The pre-match build-up seemed to all be about one controversy or another, and Brazil’s opening World Cup fixture against Croatia has prompted more conjecture thanks to the refereeing of Yuichi Nishimura.
While Neymar was the name on the lips of every Brazilian fan funnelling out of the Arena Corinthians, the Croats in attendance were echoing the words of coach Niko Kovac in fingering the Japanese in charge as the game-changer.
The award of a penalty to Fred for falling under the slightest of contact from Dejan Lovren was the decision which drew the greatest ire from Kovac, while his players were also unhappy with an elbow from Neymar on Luka Modric which earned him only a yellow card seconds before he grabbed the first of two goals to equalise.
Former World Cup referee Urs Meier was clear in his opinion that Nishimura should not have been handed such a huge assignment when speaking on ZDF after the game.
“Mistakes like this do not happen with referees that are used to refereeing in matches like this. When you are involved in Champions League matches on a regular basis, you can evaluate situations like this better,” Meier claimed.
Drop said Fred | The striker went down easily in the area but won a disputed second-half penalty
“There was only little contact. The referee also had a bad angle and he did not even try to get a better angle. Therefore should never have whistled [for the penalty]. If anything, he should have given Fred a yellow card for diving.”
It is hardly the first time that a huge decision in a World Cup match has had people questioning whether or not a referee from a supposedly lesser nation should be given the task of officiating the bigger fixtures, but it is not as though Nishimura has not refereed at this level before.
Indeed, many will remember him for being the man who helped to end Brazil’s 2010 hopes by sending off Felipe Melo in their quarter-final exit to Netherlands.
However, Nishimura has something of a chequered history in his homeland. While he has picked up many awards in Japan and been widely regarded as one of the best officials in Asia, he also courted controversy in 2008 when he allegedly swore angrily at a player.And when he was awarded with the J-League’s Referee of the Year award last December, one woman in the audience yelled out questioningly: an act seen as demonstrating a huge lack of respect in Japanese culture.
Add in the fact Nishimura has shown red cards to the wrong player so many times that there's an entire section dedicated to them on his Japanese Wikipedia page, and you have a referee that was primed to cause some sort of stir at this World Cup sooner or later.
But his decision to hand Brazil a gift-wrapped penalty when Croatia were in a position to take something from the game could well be remembered as his biggest gaffe yet.
The World Cup already has a huge contender for the mistake of the tournament.
The pre-match build-up seemed to all be about one controversy or another, and Brazil’s opening World Cup fixture against Croatia has prompted more conjecture thanks to the refereeing of Yuichi Nishimura.
While Neymar was the name on the lips of every Brazilian fan funnelling out of the Arena Corinthians, the Croats in attendance were echoing the words of coach Niko Kovac in fingering the Japanese in charge as the game-changer.
The award of a penalty to Fred for falling under the slightest of contact from Dejan Lovren was the decision which drew the greatest ire from Kovac, while his players were also unhappy with an elbow from Neymar on Luka Modric which earned him only a yellow card seconds before he grabbed the first of two goals to equalise.
Former World Cup referee Urs Meier was clear in his opinion that Nishimura should not have been handed such a huge assignment when speaking on ZDF after the game.
“Mistakes like this do not happen with referees that are used to refereeing in matches like this. When you are involved in Champions League matches on a regular basis, you can evaluate situations like this better,” Meier claimed.
Drop said Fred | The striker went down easily in the area but won a disputed second-half penalty
“There was only little contact. The referee also had a bad angle and he did not even try to get a better angle. Therefore should never have whistled [for the penalty]. If anything, he should have given Fred a yellow card for diving.”
It is hardly the first time that a huge decision in a World Cup match has had people questioning whether or not a referee from a supposedly lesser nation should be given the task of officiating the bigger fixtures, but it is not as though Nishimura has not refereed at this level before.
Indeed, many will remember him for being the man who helped to end Brazil’s 2010 hopes by sending off Felipe Melo in their quarter-final exit to Netherlands.
However, Nishimura has something of a chequered history in his homeland. While he has picked up many awards in Japan and been widely regarded as one of the best officials in Asia, he also courted controversy in 2008 when he allegedly swore angrily at a player.And when he was awarded with the J-League’s Referee of the Year award last December, one woman in the audience yelled out questioningly: an act seen as demonstrating a huge lack of respect in Japanese culture.
Add in the fact Nishimura has shown red cards to the wrong player so many times that there's an entire section dedicated to them on his Japanese Wikipedia page, and you have a referee that was primed to cause some sort of stir at this World Cup sooner or later.
But his decision to hand Brazil a gift-wrapped penalty when Croatia were in a position to take something from the game could well be remembered as his biggest gaffe yet.
The World Cup already has a huge contender for the mistake of the tournament.
Eto'o can inspire Cameroon to victory - Enoh
Eyong Enoh has hailed the influence of Samuel Eto'o in the Cameroon team, insisting that he can lead them to victory against Mexico.
The former Barcelona and Chelsea forward is the Indomitable Lions all-time top scorer, having grabbed 56 goals in 115 appearances, and has won two African Cup of Nations trophies with his country.
Speaking ahead of Friday's Group A encounter, Enoh stressed that Cameroon will place a great deal of emphasis on their captain's performance and believes he will be instrumental in any World Cup success they enjoy.
"I think everybody knows Eto’o and his abilities," the Antalyaspor player told a press conference."He is our captain, our leader, he has a lot of experience and we hope he is in his best shape to lead us to victory.
"We know the Mexican team well, we worked a lot with the staff, but we are going to focus on our strengths and we are ready for tomorrow’s game."
Cameroon have had a long history in the World Cup, with this summer the seventh time they have entered the competition, and Enoh's hopes for a good run in the tournament are echoed by his teammate Nicolas N'Koulou.
"We are a united group, we are a family, we came here very motivated and we hope to compete well," the defender stressed.
"Everything is possible in a World Cup, we are all going to play. The most important thing for us is to win the three points, we'll play well and hope everything goes ok."
Eyong Enoh has hailed the influence of Samuel Eto'o in the Cameroon team, insisting that he can lead them to victory against Mexico.
The former Barcelona and Chelsea forward is the Indomitable Lions all-time top scorer, having grabbed 56 goals in 115 appearances, and has won two African Cup of Nations trophies with his country.
Speaking ahead of Friday's Group A encounter, Enoh stressed that Cameroon will place a great deal of emphasis on their captain's performance and believes he will be instrumental in any World Cup success they enjoy.
"I think everybody knows Eto’o and his abilities," the Antalyaspor player told a press conference."He is our captain, our leader, he has a lot of experience and we hope he is in his best shape to lead us to victory.
"We know the Mexican team well, we worked a lot with the staff, but we are going to focus on our strengths and we are ready for tomorrow’s game."
Cameroon have had a long history in the World Cup, with this summer the seventh time they have entered the competition, and Enoh's hopes for a good run in the tournament are echoed by his teammate Nicolas N'Koulou.
"We are a united group, we are a family, we came here very motivated and we hope to compete well," the defender stressed.
"Everything is possible in a World Cup, we are all going to play. The most important thing for us is to win the three points, we'll play well and hope everything goes ok."
Martinez signs new five-year Everton deal
Everton boss Roberto Martinez has penned a new five-year contract with the Toffees that will keep him at Goodison Park until 2019.
The Spaniard moved to Merseyside last summer and enjoyed a fruitful maiden campaign, overseeing the club's highest Premier League points tally and narrowly missing out on a place in the Champions League.
The former Wigan boss is looking to improve even further next term after commiting his long-term future to the club.
"I am delighted to have been given the opportunity to make a further commitment to Everton," Martinez told the club's official website.
"I loved my first season at the club. I could not be more proud of the way Everton performed throughout the entire season and the memories we were able to make together.
"I am really excited about next season. I knew from the moment I arrived at Everton that this was a special place and I’d like to thank everyone associated with the club, the board, all the staff, the players and our brilliant supporters for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to build on the traditions and success of this great club."
Chairman Bill Kenwright added: "In many commentators’ eyes, Roberto Martinez is the best young manager in Europe. We agree. He took on an unfamiliar challenge for most managers; to take something really good and make it even better.
"He has succeeded. In his debut season he broke our Premier League record points haul, got us back into Europe and developed some of the most exciting young footballers in the game.
"He conducts himself off the pitch in the same way. He undertakes his business with great style, confidence, positivity and class. He is an Everton man.
"Unswervingly, we trust Roberto Martinez to take our club forward. To use one of his favourite words we are ‘excited’ about our future. We have Roberto at the helm. Solo lo mejor!"
Everton boss Roberto Martinez has penned a new five-year contract with the Toffees that will keep him at Goodison Park until 2019.
The Spaniard moved to Merseyside last summer and enjoyed a fruitful maiden campaign, overseeing the club's highest Premier League points tally and narrowly missing out on a place in the Champions League.
The former Wigan boss is looking to improve even further next term after commiting his long-term future to the club.
"I am delighted to have been given the opportunity to make a further commitment to Everton," Martinez told the club's official website.
"I loved my first season at the club. I could not be more proud of the way Everton performed throughout the entire season and the memories we were able to make together.
"I am really excited about next season. I knew from the moment I arrived at Everton that this was a special place and I’d like to thank everyone associated with the club, the board, all the staff, the players and our brilliant supporters for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to build on the traditions and success of this great club."
Chairman Bill Kenwright added: "In many commentators’ eyes, Roberto Martinez is the best young manager in Europe. We agree. He took on an unfamiliar challenge for most managers; to take something really good and make it even better.
"He has succeeded. In his debut season he broke our Premier League record points haul, got us back into Europe and developed some of the most exciting young footballers in the game.
"He conducts himself off the pitch in the same way. He undertakes his business with great style, confidence, positivity and class. He is an Everton man.
"Unswervingly, we trust Roberto Martinez to take our club forward. To use one of his favourite words we are ‘excited’ about our future. We have Roberto at the helm. Solo lo mejor!"
Neymar delighted 'strange' goals get Brazil off to winning start
Brazil hero Neymar admitted his two goals which downed Croatia in Thursday’s World Cup opener were “strange” but was delighted the tournament favourites have started their campaign with a win.The Selecao looked nervous early on and it was no surprise when Real Madrid
defender Marcelo put the ball into his own goal to hand Niko Kovac’s men an 11th-minute lead.
But with Brazil struggling in front of an expectant home crowd it was Neymar who came to the rescue. He equalised with a 29th-minute drive with Croatia's Stipe Pletikosa slow to react.
And he then gave Brazil the lead from the penalty spot, which the goalkeeper again should have saved, after Japanese referee Yuichi Nishimura controversially pointed to the spot following Dejan Lovren's tangle with Fred.
Oscar then made the points safe late on to give the hosts a flattering margin of victory."It was the best [opening match I could hope for]," Neymar told ESPN Brasil.” We wanted to win. And starting a World Cup with two goals gives me a great happiness.
"If you notice the goals, they were all a bit strange. I really did mean to put the ball between the defender's legs [for the first], but not for the shot to be as weak as it was. But the important thing is that it was a goal.
"How do I keep my cool for the penalty? It's a lot of practice, to hit the ball really strong. Their keeper gave me a little scare there, but the ball went in, thankfully."
Neymar was a touch fortunate to only see a yellow card for a first-half elbow on Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric but the Barcelona star insists the caution won’t hinder him in the remaining group games."I will play naturally. I won't be thinking about it. If I do, it's worse," he added.
"Receiving a yellow card on your first match is hard. My elbow hit Modric and I wanted to apologise, because I didn't notice he was there.
"If the referee thought there was intention on my part he was right to give me the yellow, but there wasn't."
Brazil hero Neymar admitted his two goals which downed Croatia in Thursday’s World Cup opener were “strange” but was delighted the tournament favourites have started their campaign with a win.The Selecao looked nervous early on and it was no surprise when Real Madrid
defender Marcelo put the ball into his own goal to hand Niko Kovac’s men an 11th-minute lead.
But with Brazil struggling in front of an expectant home crowd it was Neymar who came to the rescue. He equalised with a 29th-minute drive with Croatia's Stipe Pletikosa slow to react.
And he then gave Brazil the lead from the penalty spot, which the goalkeeper again should have saved, after Japanese referee Yuichi Nishimura controversially pointed to the spot following Dejan Lovren's tangle with Fred.
Oscar then made the points safe late on to give the hosts a flattering margin of victory."It was the best [opening match I could hope for]," Neymar told ESPN Brasil.” We wanted to win. And starting a World Cup with two goals gives me a great happiness.
"If you notice the goals, they were all a bit strange. I really did mean to put the ball between the defender's legs [for the first], but not for the shot to be as weak as it was. But the important thing is that it was a goal.
"How do I keep my cool for the penalty? It's a lot of practice, to hit the ball really strong. Their keeper gave me a little scare there, but the ball went in, thankfully."
Neymar was a touch fortunate to only see a yellow card for a first-half elbow on Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric but the Barcelona star insists the caution won’t hinder him in the remaining group games."I will play naturally. I won't be thinking about it. If I do, it's worse," he added.
"Receiving a yellow card on your first match is hard. My elbow hit Modric and I wanted to apologise, because I didn't notice he was there.
"If the referee thought there was intention on my part he was right to give me the yellow, but there wasn't."
Kovac slams 'shameful' refereeing
Croatia boss Niko Kovac expressed his dismay at the refereeing decisions in his side's Group A loss to Brazil, suggesting his team were not treated fairly.
The Selecao benefited from a penalty in the 71st minute after a foul on Fred and also saw their opponents denied an equaliser when Ivica Olic was adjuded to have fouled Julio Cesar with the score at 2-1.
The Croatia coach was incensed by what he saw as unbalanced officiating, declaring that Japanese referee Yuichi Nishimura had interpreted the match as if it was an non-contact sport.
"If that was a penalty, than we should play basketball, not football!" he fumed in a post-match interview with HTV.
"If you continue like this you will have 100 penalties. I think 2.5 billion people watching on TV saw this was not a penalty.
"This was ridiculous and if we continue in this way we will have a circus. I don't blame Fred at all. I blame the referee.
"The referee had different set of rules for us and different for Brazil. Shameful refereeing for [the] World Cup! And I am proud of my players, that is how you play for your country."
Croatia still have games against Cameroon on June 18 and Mexico on June 23, and Kovac remains confident of progressing from the group.
"With the way we played, this team has to have a place in round of 16," he continued.
"I am very optimistic ahead of the Cameroon and Mexico games."
Croatia boss Niko Kovac expressed his dismay at the refereeing decisions in his side's Group A loss to Brazil, suggesting his team were not treated fairly.
The Selecao benefited from a penalty in the 71st minute after a foul on Fred and also saw their opponents denied an equaliser when Ivica Olic was adjuded to have fouled Julio Cesar with the score at 2-1.
The Croatia coach was incensed by what he saw as unbalanced officiating, declaring that Japanese referee Yuichi Nishimura had interpreted the match as if it was an non-contact sport.
"If that was a penalty, than we should play basketball, not football!" he fumed in a post-match interview with HTV.
"If you continue like this you will have 100 penalties. I think 2.5 billion people watching on TV saw this was not a penalty.
"This was ridiculous and if we continue in this way we will have a circus. I don't blame Fred at all. I blame the referee.
"The referee had different set of rules for us and different for Brazil. Shameful refereeing for [the] World Cup! And I am proud of my players, that is how you play for your country."
Croatia still have games against Cameroon on June 18 and Mexico on June 23, and Kovac remains confident of progressing from the group.
"With the way we played, this team has to have a place in round of 16," he continued.
"I am very optimistic ahead of the Cameroon and Mexico games."
Benitez: Napoli can't afford Reina
Rafael Benitez has acknowledged that Napoli will not be able to keep Pepe Reina at the club and the player will now return to Liverpool.
The Spain shot-stopper played 30 times in Serie A this season for Partenopei, contributing 10 clean sheets as his side claimed third spot behind Roma and champions Juventus.
Despite the 31-year-old impressing at Sao Paolo this campaign, Benitez has ruled out the possibility of him continuing at the club into next season, despite Liverpool spending €10 million to bring Simon Mignolet to Anfield last summer.
"Pepe has two years left on his contract with Liverpool, so I think he has to go back and stay there," the former Valencia coach told talkSPORT.
"We cannot afford his wages at the moment. The Premier League is very important and we can't pay big salaries in another country like they do in England. So Pepe will go back and he will fight for his position."
Benitez, who spent six years as Liverpool boss from 2004 to 2010, winning a Champions League and FA Cup, also revealed that he himself intends to return to coach in the Premier League once more later in his career.
"It's clear that I would go back in the Premier League," the 54-year-old continued.
"I'm happy in Naples. I'm fine with the fans, with the city, with the president and the players. it's all good here, but my family lives in England.
"My daughters go to school there and they will attend university there in England. My idea is, in the future, to return to the Premier League. At the moment I'm happy in Italy, and everyone is supporting me in this adventure, but you never know."
Rafael Benitez has acknowledged that Napoli will not be able to keep Pepe Reina at the club and the player will now return to Liverpool.
The Spain shot-stopper played 30 times in Serie A this season for Partenopei, contributing 10 clean sheets as his side claimed third spot behind Roma and champions Juventus.
Despite the 31-year-old impressing at Sao Paolo this campaign, Benitez has ruled out the possibility of him continuing at the club into next season, despite Liverpool spending €10 million to bring Simon Mignolet to Anfield last summer.
"Pepe has two years left on his contract with Liverpool, so I think he has to go back and stay there," the former Valencia coach told talkSPORT.
"We cannot afford his wages at the moment. The Premier League is very important and we can't pay big salaries in another country like they do in England. So Pepe will go back and he will fight for his position."
Benitez, who spent six years as Liverpool boss from 2004 to 2010, winning a Champions League and FA Cup, also revealed that he himself intends to return to coach in the Premier League once more later in his career.
"It's clear that I would go back in the Premier League," the 54-year-old continued.
"I'm happy in Naples. I'm fine with the fans, with the city, with the president and the players. it's all good here, but my family lives in England.
"My daughters go to school there and they will attend university there in England. My idea is, in the future, to return to the Premier League. At the moment I'm happy in Italy, and everyone is supporting me in this adventure, but you never know."
Koke: I'm learning from Xavi and Iniesta
Young Spain midfielder Koke says he is enjoying learning his trade from Xavi and Andres Iniesta.
The 22-year-old was one of Atletico Madrid's stars last season as Diego Simeone's side surprisingly claimed La Liga at the expense of Barcelona and Real Madrid.
He has also broken into the international fold over the last year and is being mentored by the Barca legends, who have won it all during the course of their careers.
"Every day I am learning from them, they have a lot to teach," he is quoted as saying by Sport.
"I would like the speed with which they think on the pitch and [to emulate] how they read play before it happens. They try to bring the best out of each other."
Koke's club team-mate Diego Costa has been struggling with injuries of late but the midfielder believes the Brazil-born attacker is ready to feature in his homeland in the World Cup.
"Costa is ready. In the friendly against El Salvador [coach Vicente] del Bosque tested him and he felt comfortable."
Koke is also adamant that Spain can defend their title, despite the fact that no European team has won the trophy on South American soil.
"Spain have a winning mentality. We go out every game and play with our form and style and the mentality to go out and win."
Messi: Argentina drought has gone on too long
Argentina skipper Lionel Messi is determined to end his side's major trophy drought at the World Cup in Brazil.
The Albiceleste last triumphed in the competition way back in 1986 and have failed to win the Copa America since 1993.
The Barcelona star has acknowledged that going so long without silverware is unacceptable for Argentina and is determined to put that right over the next month.
"In Argentina, we have not won a major trophy for the last 20 years or so," he told the Times of India.
"We were the hosts of the Copa in 2011 but failed to win it. For a proud football-playing nation, 20 years is too long without winning a major trophy. So, we all are eager to do something in Brazil.
"Who doesn't want to win a World Cup for his country? I am an Argentine and we have won two World Cups, the last one being 28 years ago, before I was even born.
"I have not seen the celebrations of the fans in our streets after winning the most coveted prize in football. I've only heard about it.
"To witness it would be very special. But to do so, we need to win the trophy, which is the most difficult job under the sun for a football team."
The only time Argentina can meet hosts Brazil is in the final but Messi is refusing to think about getting that far just yet, arguing that their group, including Bosnia-Herzegovina, Iran and Nigeria poses threats of its own.
"We are not obliged to think as far [as the final]. In Barcelona, we always say think only of the next game. That is the best approach for any team.
"At the moment, we are only concentrating on our first-round opponents, especially on Bosnia-Herzegovina, who we will open our account against at the World Cup in Rio de Janeiro.
"An easy match in the World Cup? Are you kidding? Bosnia might be making their debut but we know they are a strong and disciplined European team with stars like Edin Dzeko having inspired them to qualify for Brazil."
Argentina skipper Lionel Messi is determined to end his side's major trophy drought at the World Cup in Brazil.
The Albiceleste last triumphed in the competition way back in 1986 and have failed to win the Copa America since 1993.
The Barcelona star has acknowledged that going so long without silverware is unacceptable for Argentina and is determined to put that right over the next month.
"In Argentina, we have not won a major trophy for the last 20 years or so," he told the Times of India.
"We were the hosts of the Copa in 2011 but failed to win it. For a proud football-playing nation, 20 years is too long without winning a major trophy. So, we all are eager to do something in Brazil.
"Who doesn't want to win a World Cup for his country? I am an Argentine and we have won two World Cups, the last one being 28 years ago, before I was even born.
"I have not seen the celebrations of the fans in our streets after winning the most coveted prize in football. I've only heard about it.
"To witness it would be very special. But to do so, we need to win the trophy, which is the most difficult job under the sun for a football team."
The only time Argentina can meet hosts Brazil is in the final but Messi is refusing to think about getting that far just yet, arguing that their group, including Bosnia-Herzegovina, Iran and Nigeria poses threats of its own.
"We are not obliged to think as far [as the final]. In Barcelona, we always say think only of the next game. That is the best approach for any team.
"At the moment, we are only concentrating on our first-round opponents, especially on Bosnia-Herzegovina, who we will open our account against at the World Cup in Rio de Janeiro.
"An easy match in the World Cup? Are you kidding? Bosnia might be making their debut but we know they are a strong and disciplined European team with stars like Edin Dzeko having inspired them to qualify for Brazil."
Del Bosque: Casillas will show his leadership
Vicente del Bosque has called upon Spain skipper Iker Casillas to use his experience to help his side retain the World Cup this summer.
The Real Madrid goalkeeper became only the third person to captain a team to victory at the Champions League, the World Cup and the European Championships last month.
Del Bosque believes the 32-year-old will be key to his nation's hopes this summer but feels that the whole squad is in good shape.
"Fortune smiles on him. He's won the [World] Cup and the Champions League," he told Radio Marca.
"This is his fourth World Cup and he will convey that leadership.
"Everyone's worked hard and is in good shape. We'll pick whoever we think is best for this game. We have a number of alternatives and it's hard for us to leave so many [players] on the bench.
"Their conduct has been exemplary and their attitude is great. I'm chuffed with how we've worked over the last three weeks of training."
Del Bosque also confirmed that striker Diego Costa is now in good shape after picking up an injury in Atletico Madrid's Champions League final defeat.
"Diego Costa has got better and better. The test in the friendly against El Salvador went well."
Ronaldo fails to complete Portugal training
Cristiano Ronaldo set alarm bells ringing for Portugal on Thursday as he failed to complete his side’s training session and left the pitch in Campinas with a large ice pack on his left knee.
The Real Madrid forward has been struggling with tendinosis but returned to action for 66 minutes in Portugal’s 5-1 friendly win over Ireland on Tuesday.
After that, the 29-year-old told reporters he was “99.9 per cent fit”, but participated only in stretching with his team-mates on Thursday and left the pitch with his knee in an ice pack after signing autographs for fans.
Ronaldo then watched the rest of the session from the bench and his fitness remains a cause for concern ahead of Portugal’s World Cup opener against Germany in Salvador on Monday.
The Ballon d'Or winner has been hampered by injury problems ever since Real Madrid's Champions League final win over Atletico Madrid.
Chelsea move 'great news' for Fabregas - Xavi
Barcelona captain Xavi says that he is delighted for Cesc Fabregas after the midfielder completed a move to Chelsea on Thursday.
Three years after leaving Arsenal to return to his boyhood club, the Spain international secured a transfer to Jose Mourinho's side.
Fabregas made 151 appearances for the Catalans but struggled to nail down a regular place in the starting eleven.
However, Xavi claimed that his transfer to Stanford Bridge was "a very big loss" for the Blaugrana despite being a welcome opportunity for his friend.
"It's great news for Cesc," the 31-year-old told reporters.
"I think he's very happy. I see him looking happy.
"It's a great opportunity for him to be signed by a good team. I think he was hoping that would happen. He's happy as he knows his future now for the next few years.
"It's a very big loss for Barcelona, that's clear, but he looks happy. I'm a very good friend of his so I would like to wish him all the very best."
Fabregas secured a La Liga title and Copa Del Rey whilst at Camp Nou but Xavi added that his sale will not be damaging to Barca's long-term aspirations.
"There's no interference," he added.
"These are decisions that are always taken over the summer. It will not affect us at all. Either our football or our squad."
Barcelona captain Xavi says that he is delighted for Cesc Fabregas after the midfielder completed a move to Chelsea on Thursday.
Three years after leaving Arsenal to return to his boyhood club, the Spain international secured a transfer to Jose Mourinho's side.
Fabregas made 151 appearances for the Catalans but struggled to nail down a regular place in the starting eleven.
However, Xavi claimed that his transfer to Stanford Bridge was "a very big loss" for the Blaugrana despite being a welcome opportunity for his friend.
"It's great news for Cesc," the 31-year-old told reporters.
"I think he's very happy. I see him looking happy.
"It's a great opportunity for him to be signed by a good team. I think he was hoping that would happen. He's happy as he knows his future now for the next few years.
"It's a very big loss for Barcelona, that's clear, but he looks happy. I'm a very good friend of his so I would like to wish him all the very best."
Fabregas secured a La Liga title and Copa Del Rey whilst at Camp Nou but Xavi added that his sale will not be damaging to Barca's long-term aspirations.
"There's no interference," he added.
"These are decisions that are always taken over the summer. It will not affect us at all. Either our football or our squad."
Xavi: Spain will live or die by tiki-taka
Xavi says Spain have no intention of abandoning ‘tiki-taka’ ahead of their World Cup opener against Netherlands, proudly declaring: “We’ll live or die by our style of play.”
La Roja have won the last three major international tournaments with a possession-orientated brand of football that some pundits believe other teams have now worked out, citing last summer’s 3-0 loss to Brazil in the Confederations Cup final as a case in point.
Netherlands are expected to play three central defenders and two defensive midfielders in Friday’s eagerly-awaited Group B showdown in Salvador on Friday in a bid to frustrate Spain’s attempts to pass and move – but Xavi sees no reason why the world champions should change their approach.
“It’s a repeat of the 2010 final, so we know Netherlands are a very tough rival,” the Barcelona ace told reporters at the Arena Fonte Nova on Thursday.
“ They have very fast attackers, so they’re very good at the counterattack, but also strong in defence.
“But we have our own style of play. We’ve been playing that way for many years and we’ll try to impose our style on them.
“Our style of play is very clear. We want to dominate the game; keep possession. We’ve had this style for many years and had a great many successes, so I think it would be a mistake to change it.
“All of our players have adapted to it by now. We’re going to win or die with this style of play. We want to make history again with this style of play.”
Xavi acknowledges, though, that Netherlands are more than capable of upsetting Spain’s rhythm, not least because they are coached by the man who gave him his first big break at Barcelona, Louis van Gaal.
“I have extraordinary memories of him,” the 34-year-old enthused. “He was very frank; marvellous with me. He believed in me 100 per cent. I am very grateful to him.”
Xavi also feels that Spain can ill afford to be complacent against a Netherlands outfit that will be spearheaded by Arjen Robben and Robin van Persie, with Wesley Sneijder tucked in behind.
“They have three very experienced attackers,” the playmaker warned. “Lately they’ve been playing with five at the back. I think we’ll have more possession but I think they’ll play a good game.”
Robben, of course, had a couple of excellent chance to win the 2010 final for Netherlands, only to be foiled on both occasions by Iker Casillas in the Spain goal.
The Real Madrid shot-stopper is still his country’s No.1 and he is looking forward to renewing acquaintances with his former team-mate.
“Robben played with me with two seasons,” the goalkeeper reminisced at a press conference in Salvador. “He was a vital player for us back then. But then, he’s always been a decisive player.
“There have been times when he’s been luckier than me in our personal duels – but then the other way around.
“But Robben, along with Van Persie and Sneijder ... these are three very important pillars with a lot of international experience and Netherlands’ chances rely greatly on that triangle.”
Casillas insisted, though, that what happened in Johannesburg in 2010 will have no bearing on what unfolds at the Fonte Nova on Friday evening.
“These are two very different games,” the Roja skipper insisted. “The game four years ago has nothing to do with the game [on Friday].
“We’d like to repeat our victory in South Africa. But we know it will be difficult. We are the favourites but everyone wants to play well against Spain.
“But we are always motivated. We’re trying to get that second star for our country. We’re seen as the best national team in the world and everyone is going to do their very best to beat us.
“But if we have the enthusiasm, ambition and humility that made us champions four years ago, we can progress and hopefully retain the title we win in 2010.”
Giroud relaxed over France selection
Olivier Giroud says he is not losing any sleep over whether he will start France's World Cup opener against Honduras on Sunday.
The Arsenal striker has spearheaded the French attack in warm-up matches against Norway, Paraguay and Jamaica, finding the net on three occasions.
However, with Karim Benzema and Loic Remy both in the squad, Giroud is likely to face stiff competition for the central attacking role in Didier Deschamps' plans.
"Yes it would be kind of a disappointment [to not start against Honduras] because I think I did well during the preparation games," he said. "But there is a coach and we have to respect his choices.
"Anyway, it's not going to be my main concern and it won't trouble my sleep.
"The important thing is to prepare well for this first game and be available for the team and the coach."
And Giroud believes his grounding in the Premier League makes him the leading candidate to start against Honduras.
"It's true that I like the physical part of the game," he continued. "I won't shy away from that.
"I was able to confront myself with the tough defence from England and it's an asset for me to have this kind of opponents every weekend, and I hope to use it against Honduras because they will give everything.
"I already played against [Honduras and Hull City] Maynor Figueroa. He's not an 'angel' on the pitch, he's quite tough, but it's fine.
"I like it and we all expect a pretty tough game physically, so we'll be ready to answer. I'm not afraid of anyone."
As well as Honduras, France will come up against Switzerland and Ecuador in Group E.
Olivier Giroud says he is not losing any sleep over whether he will start France's World Cup opener against Honduras on Sunday.
The Arsenal striker has spearheaded the French attack in warm-up matches against Norway, Paraguay and Jamaica, finding the net on three occasions.
However, with Karim Benzema and Loic Remy both in the squad, Giroud is likely to face stiff competition for the central attacking role in Didier Deschamps' plans.
"Yes it would be kind of a disappointment [to not start against Honduras] because I think I did well during the preparation games," he said. "But there is a coach and we have to respect his choices.
"Anyway, it's not going to be my main concern and it won't trouble my sleep.
"The important thing is to prepare well for this first game and be available for the team and the coach."
And Giroud believes his grounding in the Premier League makes him the leading candidate to start against Honduras.
"It's true that I like the physical part of the game," he continued. "I won't shy away from that.
"I was able to confront myself with the tough defence from England and it's an asset for me to have this kind of opponents every weekend, and I hope to use it against Honduras because they will give everything.
"I already played against [Honduras and Hull City] Maynor Figueroa. He's not an 'angel' on the pitch, he's quite tough, but it's fine.
"I like it and we all expect a pretty tough game physically, so we'll be ready to answer. I'm not afraid of anyone."
As well as Honduras, France will come up against Switzerland and Ecuador in Group E.
Luca Toni agrees new Verona contract
Luca Toni has committed himself to Verona for another season after an excellent 2013-14 Serie A campaign.
The 37-year-old netted 20 league goals as Verona challenged in the higher echelons of the table, though his future was initially subject to speculation as his deal approached its end.
However, with his contract due to expire at the end of the month, Toni and Verona have agreed terms to prolong his stay for a further year.
"I've spoken to the club and we immediately came to an agreement," Toni told Sky Sport Italia.
"I'm staying at Verona for another year and I'm very happy about that.
"I want to continue scoring goals, celebrate and help my team as much as I can.”
Verona ended the campaign in a respectable 10th place and the 2006 World Cup-winner is positive that his side will enjoy another productive season.
"I hope it will be another positive year... There is a perfect atmosphere here in Verona," he said.
Toni has set himself a personal target of netting 300 career goals before he retires and the forward hopes to reach that figure next season.
"Last season was wonderful and it is right to try to do well again because I also have a small personal goal to reach 300 goals.
"I'm missing about a dozen. I would like to achieve, it would be an important milestone."
Luca Toni has committed himself to Verona for another season after an excellent 2013-14 Serie A campaign.
The 37-year-old netted 20 league goals as Verona challenged in the higher echelons of the table, though his future was initially subject to speculation as his deal approached its end.
However, with his contract due to expire at the end of the month, Toni and Verona have agreed terms to prolong his stay for a further year.
"I've spoken to the club and we immediately came to an agreement," Toni told Sky Sport Italia.
"I'm staying at Verona for another year and I'm very happy about that.
"I want to continue scoring goals, celebrate and help my team as much as I can.”
Verona ended the campaign in a respectable 10th place and the 2006 World Cup-winner is positive that his side will enjoy another productive season.
"I hope it will be another positive year... There is a perfect atmosphere here in Verona," he said.
Toni has set himself a personal target of netting 300 career goals before he retires and the forward hopes to reach that figure next season.
"Last season was wonderful and it is right to try to do well again because I also have a small personal goal to reach 300 goals.
"I'm missing about a dozen. I would like to achieve, it would be an important milestone."
Cannavaro backs Sergio Ramos as Ballon d'Or contender
Former Italy and Real Madrid centre-back Fabio Cannavaro says a strong World Cup could secure Sergio Ramos the Ballon d’Or.
Ramos had an excellent campaign as his side claimed the Champions league, scoring a last-minute equaliser to take the Lisbon final against city rivals Atletico to extra-time after a colossal performance in the semi-final thrashing of Bayern Munich.
And the former Inter, Juventus and Real Madrid man believes Ramos can match his achievement in 2006, where he lifted the prize following the Azzurri's World Cup triumph.
"Sergio Ramos definitely be in with a chance of winning the Ballon d'Or if he has a good World Cup,” Cannavaro told Marca.
“If Spain enjoy a good campaign, I'm convinced he'll be nominated".
A defender hasn’t claimed the award since Cannavaro himself took the gong in 2006 after leading Italy to their fourth world title.
And Cannavaro admits Ramos will need Lionel Messi and current holder Cristiano Ronaldo to drop their standards towards the end of 2014 if he is to have a chance of winning.
“Generally it's a prize that's given to forwards, flair players with that x-factor,” Cannavaro continued.
“I won it when Ronaldinho and Zidane were around and they were the equivalent of Ronaldo and Messi now. They are two superstars and Sergio needs them to be below-par [at the World Cup]."
Former Italy and Real Madrid centre-back Fabio Cannavaro says a strong World Cup could secure Sergio Ramos the Ballon d’Or.
Ramos had an excellent campaign as his side claimed the Champions league, scoring a last-minute equaliser to take the Lisbon final against city rivals Atletico to extra-time after a colossal performance in the semi-final thrashing of Bayern Munich.
And the former Inter, Juventus and Real Madrid man believes Ramos can match his achievement in 2006, where he lifted the prize following the Azzurri's World Cup triumph.
"Sergio Ramos definitely be in with a chance of winning the Ballon d'Or if he has a good World Cup,” Cannavaro told Marca.
“If Spain enjoy a good campaign, I'm convinced he'll be nominated".
A defender hasn’t claimed the award since Cannavaro himself took the gong in 2006 after leading Italy to their fourth world title.
And Cannavaro admits Ramos will need Lionel Messi and current holder Cristiano Ronaldo to drop their standards towards the end of 2014 if he is to have a chance of winning.
“Generally it's a prize that's given to forwards, flair players with that x-factor,” Cannavaro continued.
“I won it when Ronaldinho and Zidane were around and they were the equivalent of Ronaldo and Messi now. They are two superstars and Sergio needs them to be below-par [at the World Cup]."
Wolfsburg hint at interest in Lukaku swoop
Wolfsburg's sporting director Klaus Allofs has revealed that the Bundesliga club are interested in signing Chelsea's Romelu Lukaku.
The Belgium international, currently away with his country at the World Cup in Brazil, has spent the last two seasons out on loan in the Premier League as Chelsea sought to give him regular playing time.
Lukaku impressed in both stints, scoring 17 league goals at West Brom in the 2012-13 campaign before netting a further 15 at Everton last term.
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho regularly stated his desire to bring in a world-class striker throughout last season, and Atletico Madrid frontman Diego Costa is reportedly on the verge of heading to Stamford Bridge.
That prospective deal could pave the way for Lukaku to leave Chelsea permanently, and Allofs would like to take him to the Bundesliga - although he accepts that competition for the 21-year-old's services is likely to be intense.
"If the player is getting cheaper, maybe this affair is picking up pace," he told kicker-Sportmagazin.
"But even then we won't be the only club chasing the player's signature.
"Actually we are looking at top-class strikers and we do not have any pressure. We are patiently waiting for the right moment.
"There will be some movement in all of this after the World Cup tournament."
Wolfsburg's sporting director Klaus Allofs has revealed that the Bundesliga club are interested in signing Chelsea's Romelu Lukaku.
The Belgium international, currently away with his country at the World Cup in Brazil, has spent the last two seasons out on loan in the Premier League as Chelsea sought to give him regular playing time.
Lukaku impressed in both stints, scoring 17 league goals at West Brom in the 2012-13 campaign before netting a further 15 at Everton last term.
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho regularly stated his desire to bring in a world-class striker throughout last season, and Atletico Madrid frontman Diego Costa is reportedly on the verge of heading to Stamford Bridge.
That prospective deal could pave the way for Lukaku to leave Chelsea permanently, and Allofs would like to take him to the Bundesliga - although he accepts that competition for the 21-year-old's services is likely to be intense.
"If the player is getting cheaper, maybe this affair is picking up pace," he told kicker-Sportmagazin.
"But even then we won't be the only club chasing the player's signature.
"Actually we are looking at top-class strikers and we do not have any pressure. We are patiently waiting for the right moment.
"There will be some movement in all of this after the World Cup tournament."
Aparade Lukaku ta yanna dunnoth
1st WBA walath hodata play kala & then Everton walath hodata play kala
Ahema player kenek main team 1kata ganne nathiwa transfer wenna dunnoth thanikarama aparadayak
1st WBA walath hodata play kala & then Everton walath hodata play kalaAhema player kenek main team 1kata ganne nathiwa transfer wenna dunnoth thanikarama aparadayak
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